On 40 prime East End acres, this unique citrus ranch has fabulous Topa Topa views, four legal houses, a 2800 sqft barn, and 36 acres of organic orchard. One of the best wells in Ojai provides reliable income from 6000 Valencia trees, 2000 Pixie trees and 200 pecan trees. The remodeled 3500sqft, 3bd/2.5ba main house, built in 1917, has beautiful views from nearly every window. The 3 auxiliary houses provide great rental income. Includes extensive water infrastructure, 2 Casitas water meters, 40kw of solar panels, a John Deere tractor and a Gator.
Offered at $8,750,000
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.
Bret Bradigan
WHERE EVERY DAY IS FATHER’S DAY
On Father's Day, which comes June 15 this year, I think about what it means to be a man. Not in the way culture often sells us manhood — as dominance, detachment or self-interest — but as duty, humility and endurance. My mind inevitably goes to my father, Floyd John Bradigan. He was the kind of man who showed up. Every day. For his family, his country and his community.
My dad was a decorated World War II bombardier in the Pacific Theater, flying perilous B-24 missions that earned him the respect of his peers and superiors. He spent nine years in the U.S. Army Air Corps, which became the U.S. Air Force in 1947. A gold-oak-leaved major by then, he was settling in for a career, but the family farm called him back. He mustered out in 1949, stationed at the time in Japan, just weeks before the Korean War blew up. Alongside his father and uncle, he helped run the family dairy operation in western New York. But that wasn’t enough to support a growing family of eight, so he took on more: delivering mail on rural routes, driving a school bus, and digging graves — the latter being an elected position in our town, and a fitting role for a man who never flinched from doing the dirty work, with pride and dignity.
He was also a talented baseball player who could hit for real power from both sides of the plate, having played a season of Double A ball in Visalia, California, and looking forward to a new contract with the Triple A Rochester Red Wings when Pearl Harbor intervened. But for him, greatness didn’t come on the baseball diamond. It came from showing his kids how to hold a shovel, a canoe paddle, or coach a Little League game or host a Boy Scouts meeting after a 12-hour day. Or how to untangle a fishing line, or unjam a 12-gauge. He took pride in his three-acre garden and his tidy orchard rows, teaching us the virtues of careful cultivation — of land, of family, of character. And every autumn, he ran the best deer hunt in Chautauqua County, a tradition my brother and his grandson continue today, a reminder of how legacy doesn’t have to be complicated — it just has to be consistent.
In 2020, when my brothers joined me on the Ojai podcast, we laughed (and by laugh, I mean winced) at the memory of the endless chores: shoveling manure, pushing wheelbarrows, swinging mattocks, hauling hay bales, weeding row after row. It was work that bonded us, taught us grit, and formed a bedrock for our lives. Looking around today, I worry that far too few young men have access to those lessons these days.
Male disconnection has become a crisis. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly one in seven men between the ages of 25 and 54 are not working. A growing number are not even looking for jobs. Suicide rates for men are nearly four times higher than for women. Mental health surveys show that young men are reporting increasing levels of isolation, purposelessness, and despair. The Atlantic has reported on the epidemic of "lost boys" — those drifting through digital spaces and conspiracy channels, searching for meaning where none can be found.
Too many young men are turning away from responsibility because they’ve never seen it modeled in a way that feels meaningful. They’re being sold avatars of masculinity based on Andrew Tate-esque performative aggression or consumption, instead of contribution and care. They need to see real men — not perfect, not posturing, but present. Men like Floyd John Bradigan.
Which brings us back to Ojai. This valley has many of the ingredients missing elsewhere: strong intergenerational networks, robust civic organizations, a culture that values mentorship and participation. Whether it’s volunteering for the Land Conservancy, coaching a youth soccer team, or joining the Rotary Club, Ojai’s social fabric gives men (and women) of all ages a place to plug in — and show up. It’s not utopia, but it is a counter-example: a place where meaning is made through shared effort and connection. Where a man like my father would feel at home. Happy Father's Day.
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.”
The Ojai Valley is known for its rural character and extraordinary views. Many elements come together to make Ojai a special place to live, work, and play: the smell of orange blossoms in the spring, the Pink Moment, miles of trails to explore, and families spending springtime at their favorite swimming holes. Protecting our natural resources protects what makes Ojai special.
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
If you’ve no gift to give to your betrothed Upon the anniversary of her birth
Although you know she’s used to being clothed In scarlet silks and furs around her girth
Her temper tantrums match her ample size Her expectations are about the same She waits for a luxurious surprise.
M-Th 11–5 | F 10–8 | Sat-Sun 10–6 238 East Ojai Ave Ojai, CA | 805–646–5682 follow us @ ovaartsgallery.com Phone: 805.272.5218
And so, you might commission one of mine! 3 rd FRIDAYS 5–7 pm join us for
But you’re not rich enough to suit this dame. But poems at bargain prices can be swell None of her chums have got a gift so fineShe’d love a custom piece of doggerel
600 Good Hope Street, Oak View | 2 bed/1 bath | 1,123 sqft on .11 acres
a life in full COLOR JUNE CALENDAR OF EVENTS podcast concerts events
OJAI PODCAST | THURSDAYS | OJAIVORTEX.COM
MAY 30 TO JUNE 26
“Music as Muse” - Pastel Society of the Gold Coast
Opening reception during Ojai Music Festival on Sunday, June 7, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Locations: Libbey Bowl and various venues. An annual contemporary classical music festival featuring innovative performances. The 2025 edition is directed by flutist Claire Chase and includes world premieres and works by composers Susie Ibarra and Terry Riley.
JUNE 19 TO AUGUST 3
Karen K. Lewis Retrospective
Opening Reception: June 20, from 5 to 7 p.m.
Date: Thursday to Sunday
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.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.
JUNE 21
The 37th Annual Ojai Wine Festival
Time: 12 noon to 4 p.m.
Location: Lake Casitas Recreational Area 11093 Santa Ana Road
Contact: OjaiWineFestival.org
Overlooking scenic Lake Casitas, the Ojai Wine Festival is an idyllic venue to taste award-winning wines, amazing craft beers, ciders, seltzers and fine spirits. The Ojai Wine Festival is organized by Ojai Rotary-West and supports many charitable projects.
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 smalltown Independence Day celebrations. The Fireworks show includes food trucks and live music.
— 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
JUNE 8
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 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. More than 230 episodes and counting. Sign up at OjaiVortex.com for a free newsletter.
OJAI MUSIC FESTIVAL | JUNE 5-8 |
KAREN LEWIS RETROSPECTIVE JUNE 19 TO AUGUST 3 OJAIVALLEYMUSEUM.ORG
STEPHANIE HUBBARD
STORY BY EMILIE HARRIS
PHOTOS BY MARC ALT
BRUSHES & BLOOMS:
Abstract Artist Stephanie Hubbard Goes Wild in Ojai
The inspiration to become an artist can happen at any point in someone’s life. For Stephanie Hubbard, it began early on, long before her career as a landscape architect and multidisciplinary artist.
“When I was in middle school, I worked for a ceramic artist,” Hubbard said on the “Ojai: Talk of the Town” podcast. “I’m the same person as that girl who was painting flowers in the ceramic studio. That was my entry into the art world.”
While her work as a young girl in the studio began as processing clay and stirring the glazes, Hubbard felt an itch to tap into her creative side. Eventually, this longing led her to spend hours in the studio, where the potter she worked for saw some of her paintings and hired her to decorate ceramic wares. While listening to music, she would paint a hundred little soap dishes in one sitting, marking her first job doing something creative.
It wouldn’t be long before Hubbard built an entire career out of it.
“YOU ARE HERE,” BASED ON GEOLOGICAL MAPS OF THE AREA
While her work has grown far beyond pottery over the years, her most recent project is a collection of art installations created during a nine-month residency at Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve.
Managed by the Conservation Endowment Fund, Taft Gardens offers a variety of residencies to applicants whose professions span everything from musicians to sculptors. For Hubbard, her primary focus during her residency was to combine her background in landscape architecture and her love of nature with her art studio practice. So where does her research begin? The various maps of the Ojai Valley itself.
“I started looking at historic maps,” said Hubbard. “Some of these old maps, the way that they convey multiple layers of information, it’s just hard to get out of once you get into it. It’s like a black hole of attention, but it’s so beautiful, the great design that people put into visual displays of information.”
From there, Hubbard’s research of both digital and analog maps evolved into various artistic displays, turning cartographic maps into beautifully unique abstract art, some of which she painted on large semi-transparent fabric panels.
As the artist-in-residence and now an Ojai local, Hubbard was also inspired by the natural beauty around her, ever since she arrived in this small town.
“When I was looking for another place to spend my time, living within a naturally beautiful environment was very important to me,” said Hubbard. “I also wanted to live in a place where there was a creative community. I live a creative life and connecting with a community that celebrates creativity is very important to me, and this pace of life fits how I want to live.”
While these aspects drew Hubbard to move to Ojai, she is not one to stay put in one place for very long. In college, Hubbard spent a year in Denmark furthering her academic studies in landscape architecture, along with the design of all things that knit into our lives.
“There’s something about Scandinavian design that deeply resonates with me,” said Hubbard. “That’s one of the reasons I went there in the first place, but being able to study there just reinforced that.”
Early in her landscape architecture career, Hubbard also spent
STEPHANIE WITH PART OF HER “WE ARE PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER” INSTALLATION AT TAFT GARDENS AND NATURE PRESERVE
“FIELD NOTES” INCLUDES TOPOGRAPHY OF THE LOS PADRES NATIONAL FOREST
some time was on the East Coast where she was a guest landscape architect on the set of the PBS home renovation show, “This Old House.”
Hubbard said that there is little difference when it comes to conducting her work on the show and for other clients. “The only difference is that there’s a camera a foot away from your face,” said Hubbard jokingly, right there recording every move and conversation that happens organically.
Leaning more into contemporary design, however, is what led her to start her own business.
As the founder of her landscape architecture business, SiteCreative, Hubbard designs distinct contemporary landscapes that she hopes foster meaningful spaces for her clients. Through this profession, Hubbard also engages her artistic side.
“I will always be a landscape architect and an artist,” said Hubbard. “Whether I’m doing more art now than landscape architecture, it’s just a part of who I am. I think they both inform each other. I think doing more art makes me feel more excited about landscape architecture and vice versa. Either way,
the goal is to live a creative life.”
While landscape architecture may be an unconventional artistic outlet for some, Hubbard emphasizes that art, for her, is all about curiosity about the world around us. “You don’t need to have some special language,” said Hubbard. “Art is for everyone who wants to be interested in it.”
As a multidisciplinary artist, Hubbard draws inspiration from multiple areas of expertise and places when it comes to working on a project.
“There’s no hard fast rules to the process,” said Hubbard. “I do think that there is a little bit of a common thread in general through my work because I do enjoy things that happen organically or spontaneously. I also enjoy structure, a straight edge, a sharp line. I think that’s a reflection of my personality a little bit, too.”
Hubbard’s work is recognized all around the nation. She was featured as one of the top 10 Architects and Designers in Women’s Business Boston and was additionally named as Best in Show at the Atkinson Gallery in Santa Barbara in 2024.
“OAK WOODLAND”
“OJAI ABSTRACT”
When she’s not busy in the studio or designing landscapes, she is a frequent guest lecturer at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design Career Discovery program and a guest critic at the Landscape Institute at Boston Architectural College, and a member of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art Women’s Board.
While Hubbard has accomplished many things in the art world, it is far more valuable to her that people find their own sense of meaning in it.
“We’re all multifaceted people. It’s human nature to look at something abstract and for people to see different things, and it’s something I find so fascinating,” said Hubbard. “I hope my work sparks a conversation about what’s happening in our environment or how we as people connect with our world.”
“If we have a connection to where we physically are in our environment, we’ll want to protect it and hopefully find a sense of belonging that way.”
For more information on Hubbard’s work, check out her website, Stephanie-Hubbard.com or her business, Site-Creative.com. You can also check out TaftGardens.org/artists-residency.
“TINY TOPOGRAPHY” - 5” X 5” WORKS ARE COUNTERPOINT TO LARGER FABRIC PANELS
“WE ARE PART OF SOMETHING LARGER” - HAND-PAINTED DOUBLE FABRIC PANELS WITH TRANSPARENT AREAS THAT VISUALLY CONNECT TO THE LANDSCAPE BEYOND
OJAI SERENITY
Tucked at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac with sweeping mountain views, this light-filled ranch-style home pairs comfort with convenience just minutes from downtown Ojai. Hardwood floors welcome you into an open living and dining area, perfect for family gatherings or easy entertaining, with a large slider opening to a sunny patio and backyard. The kitchen, with brand-new appliances, invites your culinary creativity. Three bright bedrooms, two updated baths, and a flexible office space offer room to live, work, and recharge. Outside, a charming gazebo beckons for alfresco dining or peaceful mornings. With low-maintenance ease and quick access to hiking trails and town, this turnkey gem is Ojai living at its best.
HIDDEN HAVEN
Welcome to 616 Lark Street, a charming mid-century home situated on a spacious corner lot in one of Ojai’s most peaceful and tucked-away neighborhoods. Just minutes from the heart of downtown, this inviting property offers incredible potential with a flexible layout that includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an extended living area ideal for entertaining, relaxing, or working from home. The interior is filled with natural light and vintage character, featuring a cozy brick fireplace and large windows that showcase the surrounding greenery. A generous backyard offers mature trees, multiple patio areas, and plenty of room to create your dream outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to personalize your forever home or searching for the perfect investment opportunity in a highly desirable location, this property is full of promise and Ojai charm.
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.
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.
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
Prepare for Fire, Drought
Practical Ways to Save Water, Money & Reduce Risk
Well, here we are going into summer once again with the U.S. Drought Monitor map (droughtmonitor.unl.edu) reminding us that we are in a severe drought and the National Interagency Fire Center (nifc.gov) forecasting above normal significant wildland fire potential starting next month.
By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela
According to California Water Watch (cww.water.ca.gov), our region has received about 43 percent of the average amount of precipitation for the current water year, which began October 1, 2024, and, according to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA.gov), the wet season for this water year ended in April. Plus, our snowpack across the state is only at 13 percent of the average peak. If you are not familiar with snowpack, this is an important measurement that helps us forecast how much snow melt will be adding water to reservoirs and rivers this year.
All of this means that we can expect that our drought situation and wildfire risk will not improve as we move into the hot, dry months of summer. This also means it is up to us to do as much as we can to conserve water and harden our homes to reduce fire risk.
I have talked a lot about water conservation in this column over the years, and I
know Ojaians are well-versed on this topic, so I will just mention a few water conserving efforts you might consider if you are not yet doing them.
One of the biggest water-saving steps you can take is to replace some or all of your natural grass lawn with a no-water or low-water alternative, such as gravel, wood chips, mulch, decomposed granite, hardscape patios and walkways, or native plants. This, alone, can save tens of thousands of gallons of water per year.
You can also save water by installing a pool cover to minimize evaporation, installing a gray water system to reclaim household water, upgrading older toilets to high-efficiency toilets to save as much as five gallons per flush, checking your irrigation system for leaks, installing a rain barrel, taking shorter showers, washing your car at the car wash instead of in the driveway, or skipping eating meat just one day per week to save hundreds of gallons of water every year.
Ojaians are also well-versed in home hardening to increase the chance of our homes surviving a wildfire. Most folks know to create a defensible space around their home and other structures with hardscapes and fire-resistant plants, stack firewood at least 30 feet away from structures and to maintain a 10-foot, vegetation-free space around the firewood, choose fire-resistant textiles and outdoor furniture, follow weed abatement guidelines, and keep their backyard fire pits and fireplaces clean and functioning properly.
One practice that I think we can still all get better at is regularly cleaning our gutters. Fire-resistant roofing materials are essential, but they are not enough to save our homes if the roof or gutters are cluttered with flammable debris.
Everyone with a home in California should also spend some time on the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) wildfire preparation website, ReadyForWildfire.org, which has a ton of resources and easy checklists to help you get your family and property ready for fire season. This includes checklists for creating go bags, making sure your insurance is in order, creating an evacuation plan, and low-cost ways to harden your home, as well as an assessment to create a custom checklist for your home and home hardening retrofit guides in English and Spanish.
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
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
GRILLED PEACH, AVOCADO, JALAPEÑO SALSA
This is a fresh salsa with a taste of summer barbecue. What could be better? I think I’ll serve it once with roasted jalapenos and then again with the firm, fresh jalapenos sliced super thin. The smokiness of the grilling process plus the combination of the sweet peaches and the spicy jalapeños goes nicely with potato or honey-lime sweet potato tacos. I’ve also used it as a condiment with crispy beer-battered avocado tacos. Give it a try!
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:
2 ripe avocados
2 ripe peaches
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (divided)
1/4 cup shallots (chopped fine)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
2 jalapenos (seeds removed and sliced thin)
1/4 teaspoon salt
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat grill on medium-high heat (400 to 450 degrees).
While the grill is heating, slice the avocados and peaches in half lengthwise and remove the pits. Brush a mixture of one tablespoon olive oil, plus one tablespoon lime juice on the flat sides of each half. Make sure they’re coated generously to avoid sticking to the grill.
Once the grill is hot, add the avocado and peach halves, cut side down, and close the lid. Grill for four minutes. Use grill tongs to carefully remove the peach and avocado halves to a plate. While the peaches are still hot they can be easily peeled. Allow them to cool before dicing. Use a large spoon to scoop the avocado flesh away from the peel.
In a large bowl combine the remaining lime juice, shallots, garlic, jalapenos, and salt. Dice the avocados and peaches into small pieces and fold into the salsa. Cover and chill before serving.
TOURISTIFICATION? Comparing French Attitudes to Tourism with Ojai’s
I just returned from an exhilarating trip to the Bordeaux region of France with friends. These “good” friends turned into “great” friends after spending time exploring, dining out, and having long conversations covering just about every topic under the sun. It was the sort of adventure that creates long-lasting memories to be enjoyed for years to come. It’s the kind of trip that changes you and you can’t help but look at the juxtaposition of where you travelled to, contrasted with where you’ve come from.
I joked that if I weren’t coming back to my beautiful Ojai, I might not return! There was a little truth in that comment as the French countryside and the French people were so welcoming and kind. For instance, a woman running a chocolate store in St. Emilion insisted on giving me all of her personal information so that I might return for a special festival held in April of 2026. She insisted “it’s not strange, it’s not strange” and she was right. That kindness and hospitality was something I saw everywhere, even in the bigger city of Bordeaux.
Are we that welcoming?
As another example, one of my friends who was recovering from a broken leg couldn’t walk farther and needed to be picked up. Not being very familiar with driving in France, I pulled up near where she was sitting only to discover I was parked directly in front of a long line of drivers that had a green light! I was horrified. Surprisingly, not one of them
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honked or shook fists. They very patiently waited while we loaded my friend in and turned the car around.
I ask, would we be that tolerant?
Another woman, who was working at a clothing store in a very busy area, walked me over two blocks to direct me to an Apple store so that I could buy a replacement charging cable. I’d been going in circles for what seemed like forever before she kindly assisted me.
Are we that helpful to tourists?
On the heels of this wonderful French hospitality, I came back to Ojai and saw some posts grumbling about tourism in Ojai. It struck me that there seems to be quite a bit of intolerance along with a lot of fear around Ojai becoming
gentrified. And then there is a new word out there, “touristification,” which is defined as a process by which a place changes as it becomes an object of tourist consumption. We need to consider that maybe it’s true … maybe the flavor of Ojai is changing somewhat. But taking a deeper view, I would hold that we need to look at the folks coming in and what they are contributing. Our economy, after all, is based on tourism and has been for many decades. Now fortunately, we aren’t Las Vegas and the type of visitors that Ojai attracts — those seeking a peaceful retreat, cultural experiences, great food and spending time in Nature and with friends and family — certainly will help maintain a thoughtful atmosphere.
Yes, we have challenges, parking included. But with the right leadership, and a strong volunteer base, we can solve many of our most enduring problems. Maybe we just need to slow down a little and smell the orange blossoms and enjoy all that Ojai offers, including our visitors. Certainly, we can do better to protect Ojai’s charm and keep its character intact. After all, much of that has to do with who we are individually.
For me, I am going to go out of my way to offer the kind of hospitality I experienced on my recent trip. I will continue to envision an Ojai that offers diversity while drawing people interested in arts, culture, music, food, nature and all the good things that make life worth living. I would suggest that preserving Ojai starts with each of us.
Katinka
Kleijn, cello
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