Ojai Monthly - March 2024

MINIMALIST WILDLAND SANCTUARY

On 44 pristine acres in Upper Ojai, this modern compound includes a 2700sf main house, a 900sf guest house, a pool and terraces all enfolded in the crook of a dramatic eastern ridge with unparalleled privacy and magnificent views of the Topa Topas, the Upper Valley and Sulphur Mountain. Designed by its architect owners to be a serene, airy, modernist experience completely in harmony with the landscape, this is a truly unique Ojai property that honors both the rawness of nature and the fearless possibilities of contemporary design and construction.

12179KoenigsteinRdOjai.com

Offered at $5,250,000

RARE DOWNTOWN VIEW LOT

This gorgeous 5.25 acre property accessed by gated entry from Foothill Rd has meadows and ancient oaks decorating a unique expanse of usable land. Totally private and inviting, it is bordered by the undeveloped hillsides of Stewart Canyon and has easy access to the Pratt Trail and Shelf Road. Unobstructed views of the Topa Topas and surrounding mountains make this an ideal location for a fabulous home, a horse property, a large retreat compound or anything you can imagine. It is adjacent to two other available lots which could create a fabulous 22 acre lot.

1218FoothillRdOjai.com

Offered at $2,500,000

631

DISCOVER OJAI MONTHLY FAVORITE OJAI PLACES, CONT.

Bret Bradigan

"If you don't become the ocean, you'll be seasick every day."

— Leonard Cohen

I've written before about one of my favorite Ojai features: The book cart outside my office behind the Arcade. It's a feast of treasures, thanks to the bibliophiles around town, as well as the volunteers at Twice-Sold Tales, the Ojai Library's used bookstore. I am inspired to write about it again because the other day I found the massive coffee table book, (18"x11" with hundreds of pages with nearly 90 exquisite plates, tipping the scales at just over 20 pounds) "Michelangelo the Painter." The insight and detail about his fascinating life is mesmerizing. His art is the star, though. The fertility of his mind, and the development of his talent, is almost unbearable in a way. The weight of his genius staggers.

I love books. And I love that Ojai is a town that loves books. Check out my conversation with Matt Henriksen, Bart's Books' manager, on episode 174 of the Ojai podcast. My first experience with books was through my Aunt Jenny. When our second-grade teacher, Mrs. Woods, went on maternity leave, Aunt Jenny came out of retirement to teach us. She bought me a few books to see if they'd pique my curiosity. Yes, they certainly did. There were two in particular I remember vividly. One was a kids' book on Antarctica, with beautiful photographs of an incredible variety of ice, from deep blue to white crystals. Also, it was where I introduced to the first animal that inspired terror in me — the leopard seal, the lurking shadow that haunts penguins' nightmares. My favorite, though, was a book on magnets, which came with a selection of magnets and a bag of iron filings. It was endlessly entertaining and illuminating, being my first exposure to the wonders of the unseen world.

After this experience, I began a habit of visiting our county bookmobile, which lumbered and wheezed into town every other Saturday. The librarian took a shine to me, and would find special treats for me. Each book I read brought me to its bibliography, from which I'd request another round of inter-library loans. At the time, I was obsessed with Arctic and Antarctica travel (I regard Ernest Shackleton, to this day, as the greatest expedition leader of all time — 26 men went into a frozen hell and three-and-a-half years later, 26 men came out). That led me to the Klondike Gold Rush, from there to the Nome Gold Rush, then to the DEW Line, the Russian Far East, a biography of Peter the Great, to the wonders of France in the age of Louis "The Sun King" XIV, and from there back to the French voyageurs who created the Great Lakes trade routes that ran practically through my western New York backyard. That reading journey around the globe took place all within a few weeks.

Back to "Michelangelo the Painter." Not so long ago it was possible to own an original Michelangelo work for only a few hundred dollars. His servants were illiterate, so he'd sketch out their shopping lists. An enterprising soul kept them safe for a half millenia. Apparently, genius can subsist, if not flourish, on a diet of fish, bread, cheese and lots and lots of wine. In keeping with book-cart etiquette I'll return it when I'm done. Just don't be holding your breath.

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

Record High Year 115° 2018

Record Low Year 16° 1990

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.”

MARCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS

‘THE

MARCH 2-3

Sacred Geometry Weekend With George Leoniak

Location: Sane Living Center, 316 East Matilija Street

Times: Varies, check website

Contact: SaneLivingCenter.com, 805646-6000 or geometryofhealing.com/ somatic-stretch-rewind-and-reset-event for more information on this powerful healing and spiritual lineup of events in downtown Ojai.

MARCH 10

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. Have a chance to learn from the owners about the history and importance of some of the world’s most incredible automobiles.

OPENS MARCH 28

“Tomatomania!”

Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dates: Monday through Saturday

Location: Wachter’s Hay & Grain, 114 South Montgomery Street

Contact: tomatomania.com

Get expert advice, find rare heirlooms, classic

|

podcast events

TOMATOMANIA!

OPENS MARCH 28 | TomatoMania.come

hybrids and all you need for a successful season. Find more than 100 varieties. Tomato restock will happen in May.

— DOWN THE ROAD — APRIL

Ojai Pixie Month

Locations: Restaurants and shops around town. Contact: Ojai Chamber of Commerce 805-646-8126

OjaiChamber.org

Looks for the pixie stickers on windows of restaurants and shops around town for a selection of Ojai’s very delicious and versatile tangerine. From food to beverages to products, the town celebrates its homegrown fruit.

APRIL 24-28 2024

The 121st “The Ojai”

Ojai Valley Tennis Tournament

Times: Varied

Location: Libbey Park & Elsewhere

Contact: 805-646-7421

theojai.net

The country’s oldest amateur tournament, going back to 1896, returns with the PAC-12 championships and many other top matchups. This year The Ojai will honor Mike and Bob Bryan, the most successful doubles players of all time, winner of multiple Olympic gold medals and multiple Ojai championships.

OJAI PODCAST | THURSDAYS | OjaiHub.com

— RECURRING EVENTS — SATURDAY

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 the “smiling vale.”

MONDAYS

Shakespeare Reading Salon — every 1st and 3rd Monday

Times: 7 to 9 p.m.

Location: Ojai Main Library, 111 East Ojai Avenue

Contact: Laurie at 805-646-3733

ojaibard@gmail.com

Join our lively reading and discussion. Whether you like to read aloud or just listen, everyone is welcome!

THURSDAYS

Ojai: Talk of the Town Podcast

New episodes come out Thursday evenings through the OjaiHub.com newsletter. 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. Come join the fun.

and

GEORGE S. STUART

BY BRET BRADIGAN

HISTORY, TO SCALE

George S. Stuart: A Miniature Odyssey Through History — From Dyslexia to Renowned Artist

With the Museum of Ventura County hosting an exhibit of his work, The Ojai 'Talk of the Town' podcast episode on George S. Stuart provides valuable insights into his life and work. In the podcast, Stuart shares personal anecdotes, thoughts on his creative process, and reflections on the impact of his miniatures. Listening to his own words adds depth to the narrative, allowing us to understand his journey through his own perspective.

The Ojai "Talk of the Town" podcast episode with George S. Stuart provides valuable insights into his life and work. In the podcast, Stuart shares personal anecdotes, thoughts on his creative process, and reflections on the impact of his miniatures.

Born 95 years ago in Pasadena, the son of an aeronautical engineer and a writer mother, George S. Stuart’s early life was marked by a yet-to-be-identified challenge; “Dyslexia. We’d never heard of it, we didn’t know what it was. Teachers told my parents, ‘We’re sorry, you have a

charming son. He has good manners, but you’re going to have to live with it,’” he said. “My parents were desperately desirous that I become a person of stature and accomplishments.”

So they went to work. “I was surrounded by tutors … who one by one gave up,” he said. “I couldn’t do anything with math, I failed chemistry flat … and so it was an awful handicap.”

Stuart's journey from a dyslexic child to a renowned artist was not a straight path. There were glimmers along the way, though. He traveled in Europe as a young boy and began to develop his lifelong fascination with history and architecture, even constructing a scale model of the Palace of Versailles. Another glimmer came with the gift of at age 7 of a marionette, through which he became intrigued by re-creating the human form. “It was the most exciting thing I ever saw,” he said. None of these early fascinations pointed to a meaningful career, however, especially for someone who struggled scholastically.

After toughing it out at Georgetown and the American University, where Stuart's dyslexia made it nearly impossible for

George Stuart's Historical Figures® exhibition, "Napoleon: Revolution, Romance, and Rivalries."

The exhibition opened February 22nd and will be on display through September 15th at the Museum of Ventura County, giving viewers a onefourth scale version of the rise and fall and rise again of this enormously consequential man and other characters of this pivotal period in history

him to keep up the course work, he came across an influential figure: Professor and author Carroll Quigley. "It was an absolute turning point in my understanding of why history is important to me, and should be important to others. But I flunked out,” he said.

“I needed a job and I wasn’t prepared for anything I knew of. But I looked in the Post in the want ads and Smithsonian Institution was hiring artists. I thought maybe I am an artist of some sort,” he said. He had started working on early iterations of his historical models. “I knew the figures were going to be terribly important, I didn’t know it’d be the center of my creative life in the future,” he said. In the early 1950s, he was the third artist hired for the museum’s new exhibit artists program. Stuart was put to work creating models to show the scale of inventions that received patents. His boss, Benjamin Lawless, was “just a few years older than me. A good artist, a charming man. We got along famously, laughing about how to motorize the dinosaurs.”

After a few years, Stuart was given a choice, be fired on the spot, or take a job in the Institution’s remote post in Pierre, South Dakota. En route, he got ill. Very ill.

He suspected that it was a bad case of strep throat. Somehow, with no memory of the journey, he ended up back in California.

That was when and where he began focusing on the historical figures, using an exacting process with carefully chosen materials such as Icelandic sheep hair, scaled-down chain mail, special embroideries and accessories to accurately represent actual fashions and weapons of the period. He starts with a jointed wire skeleton like the marionette from his youth, then facial features are meticulously crafted with specially designed instruments, starting with a clay base built up with paper maché, styrofoam, wool felt and blown glass eyes. He developed his own plastique to make the skin as lifelike as possible, through years of experimentation.

“The worst material I used to begin with was called ‘plastic wood’ — like an resin with sawdust," Stuart said. “It would stick to your fingers when you’re trying to model. Another challenge was that it very flammable, which I discovered trying to dry them in a hurry in my oven … I transferred to a substance called Marble X, a hobby craft material. It was excellent for my

modeling and it dried beautifully.” When the company went out of business, they gave Stuart a 25-pound bag of it. He eventually found an even better material called Paper Clay, from a man he met at a convention who was building Japan art figures.

Despite the similarities, Stuart said, “I’m a modeler, not a sculptor. And there’s a lot of people modeling, making figures with articulation and other variations. And some of them are absolutely brilliant. So I’m not unique in that respect. What made mine a little different was I stuck with a specific scale … quarter-life size. But my role is about historical figures.”

Private collectors also found their way to Stuart. “I started doing a few and it blossomed into a nice income,” he said. “

As Stuart’s figures became sought after, he put together a show of French historical figures at the Stanford Art Museum in 1957 that was well received. It gave him an idea when he returned to Santa Barbara, where lived many retired Hollywood notables “and it was a very rich mix of theatrical experiences.” So he conceived of a traveling show with his figures, telling himself “You’ve been through three

universities, you must know something about history, and you’ve been on the stage since age 15 … why don’t you go on as a public speaker?”

With his figures in tow, Stuart became a captivating speaker, delivering talks that brought history to life. His ability to weave narratives around each miniature, offering insights into the personalities and eras they represented, made him a sought-after speaker. Audiences were enthralled by the immersive experience Stuart provided, feeling as though they were transported back in time through his miniature masterpieces. He was hired by the same speaker’s bureau, Samuel Horton Brown Agency, that represented Margaret Mead. “I was nobody. They gave me an audition. They said, ‘Alright, you’re one of our artists.’”

He developed a series of talks that ran from 20 minutes to an hour and 45 minutes. One of the earlier ones was about French History, from figures from Louis the IV, the “Sun King,” to Napoleon and the Bourbon Restoration. He had to come up with new material for every season, “adding a few figures here and there, making it into a new program,” he said.

FROM LEFT, QUEEN VICTORIA, MARIE DE MEDICI, CLEOPATRA

Among those programs are American Revolutionary and Civil Wars, from Samuel Adams to Abraham Lincoln, Bourbon Dynasty from Henry IV to Charles X, Czarist Russia and the Soviet Union. His most popular performance may be “Really Awful People,” spotlighting his figures on Adolf Hitler, Pol Pot, Attila the Hun, Vlad the Impaler and Nero. “It starts with a massacre and ends with a slaughter,” he once remarked. The programs kept him busy as he combined his skills as a theater actor and amateur historian.

“My agent called me up for a meeting, saying, ‘We don’t talk about religion or politics or sex in speakers’ presentations,’ I thought ‘Oh my god, that’s all I talked about!’” He said, “That’s what makes it interesting, because I make it into an interesting drama. I’m not an educator, I’m an entertainer, and I’ve never had any other illusions.” He follows a tradition set by Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, Will Rogers, and contemporary with Garrison Keillor and Lily Tomlin, though he is careful about comparisons.

One significant chapter in Stuart's life unfolded in 1959 when he made Ojai his home. In this idyllic setting, he found

other museums and galleries around the country. In 1979, the Museum of Ventura County built a special gallery to house 200 figures.

As Stuart reached the remarkable age of 95, he looked back on a life well-lived, shaped by a passion that transcended challenges and setbacks. His miniatures, each a labor of love, became not only artifacts but portals to different times. Stuart's ability to turn his fascination with history into a successful career serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and history enthusiasts alike.

the perfect backdrop for his Gallery of Historical Figures. Nestled in the East End. Stuart's collection became a living testament to his passion, a place where visitors could step into history and witness the past unfold before their eyes.

He has exhibited his figures — more than 400 in all — in the Smithsonian, Bill Clinton Presidential Library among many

His concern for the future is that history in America is not being taught with the rich context and understanding it deserves. “It’s a sad thing to see, young people now consider the Vietnam War ancient history. I’m not despairing … we’ve been blessed with everything imaginable. It’s how we’ve used it or abused it. We have the opportunity to do so much, but unfortunately sometimes we put our feet wrong,” he said. “In other cases, we do a good job.”

George S. Stuart was interviewed for the Ojai podcast, “Talk of the Town,” in episode 171, available wherever you get your podcasts.

BELOW, FROM LEFT, BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, GEORGE WASHINGTON AND A 23-YEAR-OLD ABRAHAM LINCOLN

LOUIS XIV, ‘THE SUN KING’ OF FRANCE

There's no place like home. Let me find yours.

FAMILY HOME

$2,675,000 FOR SALE

Located on one of Ojai’s most desirable streets and sitting perfectly on over half-an-acre, this wonderful family home is just waiting for you. This home features a spacious open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, Travertine stone floors throughout and light-filled rooms. There are two large living areas, both with their own fireplace, so you can enjoy the warmth of a cozy fire. Top of the line appliances in the large kitchen which looks out to the beautiful pool and backyard. The dining room opens to a large deck with lovely mountain views, a great place for entertaining. There are four bedrooms, three bathrooms with plenty of room for family and guests. The outdoor space is charming with meandering pebble pathways, lush landscape and mature trees. You will love splashing in the pool on warm summer days or soaking in the hot tub under the star-studded nights sky. With this ideal location you are close to hiking trails, shops, and restaurants. There is an oversized three-car garage with plenty of parking. Private and gated. Don’t miss this one!

$1,995,000 FOR

El Viaje was inspired by the architectural design of an Italian Luxury Villa where Old World Charm and the modern conveniences of everyday life come together perfectly. As you enter through the gates to a private, secluded yard you will love the mix of mature trees, the flower-lined barranca, and the romantic dining area. Once inside, you will appreciate the elegant but simple lifestyle. With the polished concrete floors downstairs and Brazilian Cherrywood floors upstairs you will feel the warmth of this home. The cozy living room opens to the kitchen and dining room and is perfect for entertaining. There are Venetian plaster walls throughout, granite counter tops, top-of-the-line kitchen appliances, and Smart Home technology. The brilliant finishing touches and attention to detail cannot be ignored so don’t miss seeing this lovely Villa. Located in the heart of downtown Ojai close to restaurants, shops and hiking trails.

1 SHELF ROAD 3.5mi

EASY | Elev. Gain: 200 ft | Overlooks downtown Ojai.

VENTURA RIVER PRESERVE | 7mi

EASY TO MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 520 ft (Wills-Rice). Trailheads at end of Meyer Road, South Rice Road and Baldwin Road. Great for birding.

HORN CANYON 5.5mi

STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 1,600 ft.

Trailhead near Thacher School’s gymkhana field. Goes to shady stand of 80-foot tall pines.

ROSE VALLEY 1mi

EASY | Elev. Gain: 100 ft

Trailhead at Rose Valley Campground. Leads to a spectacular 300-foot, two-tiered fall.

PRATT TRAIL 8.8mi

STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 3,300 ft | Trailhead off North Signal Street. Goes to Nordhoff Peak. Clear day? See forever.

COZY DELL 2.2mi

MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 740 ft |

Trailhead 8 miles north of Ojai on Maricopa Highway. Short, intense hike that also connects to trail network.

SISAR CANYON 22mi

STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 4,800 ft to Topa Topa Bluffs. Trailhead at end of Sisar Road. Only for experienced, fit hikers.

GRIDLEY TRAIL 6-12mi

MODERATE | 3 mi to Gridley Springs (Elev. Gain: 1,200 ft) 6 mi to Nordhoff Peak. Trailhead at north end of Gridley Road.

MATILIJA CANYON 12mi

MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 1,200 ft | Middle Fork. Trailhead at end of Matilija Road. First 1.5 miles of trail well-maintained, the rest a scramble.

SULPHUR MTN. 22mi

MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 2,300 ft | Trailhead on eastern side of Sulphur Mountain Road. Views are unsurpassed.

There's no place like home. Let me find yours.

Located within walking distance to downtown Ojai, this elegant family home has it all. Light and bright, you will love the open spacious floor plan. The beautifully detailed kitchen and den open to a sunroom, with a massive rock fireplace, which overlooks the private backyard and swimming pool. There are four fireplaces, a large office, downstairs primary bedroom with a ‘spa-like’ bath, formal living room and formal dining room — all with incredible details, balconies and patios to bring the outside in. This property, just over an acre, has an art studio, garden sheds, meandering pathways, a bridge leading to a five star chicken coop, orchards, vegetable and rose gardens, wonderful mature trees, views of the mountains and, yes, a Tree House. There is a one bedroom attached guest quarters. Private and quiet and yet so close to shops, restaurants, and the Ojai Arcade.

Four Spring Cleaning Tasks

(That Might Not Be on Your List)

By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela

Spring is here, which means it is time for the annual ritual of spring cleaning. Since I love any excuse to clean and organize some part of my house, I love this ritual and usually start making my to-do list well before spring arrives. Most of us who participate in this tradition will include tasks like cleaning out the refrigerator, washing the windows, scrubbing the baseboards, shampooing rugs and carpets, and cleaning out closets.

If you think you might still have a bit more energy to put towards cleaning after completing these tasks, here are four more you might consider adding this year:

1. Clean and maintain your garden tools: This is the perfect time of year to take an afternoon to clean, sharpen, and maintain your garden tools. This might be particularly true after all the rain we have had so far, which might have left some of your tools a bit rusty. For anything with a wood handle, apply linseed or another skinand plant-safe oil, let it sit for about 20 minutes, and then wipe off the excess with a rag. If you have shovels or hand tools that need sharpening, use a mill file or flat file to sharpen the edges, or have them

professionally sharpened. If some of your tools have gotten a bit rusty, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove it. You can then apply a coat of linseed oil and store them with the metal part in a bucket of sand mixed with linseed or vegetable oil to help prevent future rusting.

2. Clean your patio furniture and outdoor textiles: While you are outside getting things ready for spring, grab the covers for your patio cushions and outdoor dog beds and bring them inside to launder. Wipe done plastic and metal patio furniture with soap, water, and a rag, and check wood or painted furnishings to see if they need a new coat of oil, stain, or paint.

3. Clean out your shed: The extra storage offered by sheds is rather handy, but it is easy to just keep tossing stuff in there and forgetting about it. Spring is a good time to take everything out of the shed, see if there are items you no longer need that can be given away, sold, or discarded, and then organize what is left to maximize the space and make it more functional. If you free up space in your shed, this will also make more room for storing garden tools, pool

toys, or other items that might be cluttering your outdoor living areas.

4. Clean your refrigerator coils and dryer vent: Help your appliances function better and reduce the risk of a house fire by cleaning your refrigerator coils and dryer vent. All of your refrigerators — the main one in the kitchen, the extra one in the garage, the mini fridge in your outdoor kitchen, and the wine refrigerator in your pantry – all have coils that need to be cleaned at least twice per year. This is an easy task you can do yourself with a screwdriver and a vacuum. The dryer vent is usually also easy to clean, but you can hire a professional if you are not comfortable doing it or want to make sure it is properly cleaned to reduce the risk of fire.

Side note: If your spring cleaning includes donating items you no longer need, check local organizations, such as Humane Society of Ventura (HSVC.org) or Ojai Raptor Center (OjaiRaptorCenter.com) to see if the items might be on their list of needs. Alternatively, donating general goods to the 2nd HELPings thrift store in Ojai allows the items to be sold to support HELP of Ojai.

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

Kristen Currier LIV Sotheby’s International Realty 805-798-3757 thehoffgroup. com

Patty

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

Team Deckert Keller Williams Realty

Ray Deckert, Broker Associate ContactUs@ TeamDeckert. com

805-272-5218

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

Dale Hanson Ojai Valley Real Estate 211 E. Matilija Street, Ste. J, 206 E. Ojai Ave. 805-646-7229 dale@ovhl.com

Clinton Haugan LIV | Sotheby’s International Realty 727 W. Ojai Ave. Ojai, CA 93023 C: (805) 760-2092 O: (805) 646-7288 chaugan@livsothebysrealtyca.com DRE# 02019604

Larry Wilde

LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Wilde-Wilde. com 805-640-5734

Erik

Wilde-Wilde.com 805-830-3254

Don & Cheree Edwards RE/MAX

Gold Coast Ojai’s Top Selling Team

LivinginOjai.com 805.340.3192 805.350.7575

Kirk Ellison

LIV Sotheby’s International Realty KirkEllison@ me.com 805-340-5905

Anne Williamson

LIV Sotheby’s Anneshomesinojai.com 805-320-3314

Hildegard Tallent CalBRE#

02047013

Keller Williams Realty, 109 N. Blanche Street

Tel: 805-798-1872 email: hildegard. tallent@kw.com

Kathy Hoff

LIV Sotheby’s International Realty (805) 290-6907 thehoffgroup.com

Marsha

Kaye Home Mortgage Consultant

Phone: 805640-0654

Cell: 805-7469055

marsha.kaye@ homebridge. com

Rachelle Giuliani Realtor 805-746-5188

DRE:02047608

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices rachellegiuliani@ bhhscal.com

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

LO>E SOCIAL CAFE

217 East Matilija Street (805) 646-1540

nosovita.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

OSTERIA MONTE GRAPPA

Rustic menu of Northern Italian fare & seafood dishes.

242 E Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023 (805) 640-6767 omgojai.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

chickpea & fingerling potato stew

Chickpeas, commonly called garbanzo beans, have long been valued for their fiber content and are one of the world’s healthiest foods. If you like chickpeas, this vegan recipe is for you. This is a hearty vegan stew that takes advantage of canned chickpeas and quick-cooking fingerling potatoes to make prep quick and easy. Adding unsweetened coconut milk and the subtle heat of North African harissa spices make it tasty. I like to serve this with Naan or Bhatura bread on the side.

Randy Graham is a noted chef and writer and has been a lactoovo 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 :

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 cup onion (diced)

1 red bell pepper (large dice)

8 ounces fingerling potatoes (halved lengthwise)

2 garlic cloves (minced)

1 tablespoon fresh ginger (peeled and finely chopped)

2 teaspoons harissa

3 cups vegetable broth

2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon Vegetable Base

15-ounce can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed)

3/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon cilantro (chopped for garnish)

DIRECTIONS:

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over mediumhigh heat. Add the onions and bell pepper and stir until browned — about five minutes. Add the potatoes, garlic, ginger, and harissa and cook for two minutes more. Add the broth, bouillon, and chickpeas and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat until the potatoes are tender — about 15 minutes. Add the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper (if needed). Sprinkle the stew with cilantro and serve while still hot.

The hidden costs of closings

Five Top Tips for Saving a Bucket Load of Money

My client texted me last night at around 6 to get some advice on his insurance policy. I had recommended he contact three insurance agencies as property insurance rates here in California have gone through the roof! (No pun intended)

He believed, like many, that the 20 percent he was putting down was the bulk of what he needed to account for. Closing costs, however, can range between 3-5 percent of the purchase price. What he didn’t know is that some of the closing costs are negotiable with a little effort. Here are some of my top tips for saving a bucketload of money:

Insurance: There are online services, local brokers and non-profit agencies like AAA that can provide quotes. Many California insurance companies are pulling the plug on their insureds, so you want to make sure you work with a solid company and agent willing to go to bat for you. A good place to start is the company insuring your vehicle. But don’t stop there as I’ve seen some pretty wide swings in the premiums lately.

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.

No Points Loans: My strategy right now is to offer no-points loans for my clients. We are keeping our fingers crossed for lower rates in the coming years so paying points makes no sense. It usually takes five years to recoup any gains for paying points and if there is a streamlined refinance in your future, consider going the no-points option. A point is a percentage of the loan

amount so if you’re paying a point on a $600k loan, it’s going to cost $6,000.

Schedule the Closing Strategically: On closing day, you prepay loan interest, property taxes for the month, along with a year of homeowner’s insurance. Make sure the closing day coincides with when you are most likely to move in. So, if you know you can’t move until the weekend, schedule the closing for Friday, with funding on Thursday. A good loan officer can help guide you with this.

Negotiate Closing Credits with Seller:

Even if you have agreed on a purchase price, there is still room to negotiate credit. This normally shows up as a credit for repairs after an inspection is done. Don’t feel nervous to ask for what you feel is appropriate. All they can do is say no.

Title & Escrow: While the seller normally gets the say on who they will use for title and escrow, and this is generally recommended by the listing agent, it doesn’t hurt to check pricing say in Santa Barbara where rates tend to be lower. While this isn’t my top tip, it can be worthwhile to check.

Royal

Three Bedrooms + Office with Fireplace, Wood Floors, Vaulted Ceilings, Breakfast Bar, Trex Decks, Wet Bar, Over-Sized Garage, Fruit Trees, Solar Panels, and Mountain Views

Gated, Five-Acre Country Estate with Main House, Guest House, Workshop, Pool & Spa, Outdoor Kitchen, Sports Court, Two Fireplaces, Multiple Outdoor Living Areas, Orchard, Patio Fireplace, Solar Panels & Mountain Views

Lone Palm Cottage - Three Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms, Huge Family Room, Hardwood Floors, Over-Sized Soaking Tub, Lots of Closets, Breakfast Bar, and Mountain Views

Rose Valley Land - Create an off-grid, country retreat on 40 acres with mountain views, trails, and a natural spring in Rose Valley in the Los Padres National Forest

Rancho Royale – Historic, 21-acre, remodeled and updated equestrian estate with four-bedroom main house plus eight rentals, 18-stall barn, 16-stall barn, 5 additional barns, 20 covered corrals, four arenas, two round pens, hay and equipment barns, three RV hookups, Preifert panel walker, entertainment barn, archery range, mountain views, and so much more

Fully Remodeled Five Bedroom, Five Bathroom Mid-Century Modern with Spanish Colonial Influence with Brazilian Wood Floors, Pool & Spa, Two Primary Suites, Guest Quarters, Media Room, Amazing Views

Two Bedroom, Two Bathroom Manufactured Home + Outbuildings on Flat, Usable, .81-Acre Horse Property Close to Lake Casitas and Oak View Shops & Restaurants

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