A N D P I P E R S A N D P I P E R
inaPalmTree! And aSandpiper
Our Partners In Print
At Sandpiper, we believe in telling stories that make Ventura healthier, more connected, and more inspired stories shaped by mission and community, not by profit
The local businesses featured throughout these pages make that possible Their partnership sustains independent storytelling in Ventura and allows us to focus on what truly matters here: public art that brightens our neighborhoods, programs that expand access to the ocean, and wellness information created with our readers’ real lives in mind Their support also keeps Sandpiper aligned with its values from printing on recycled paper to choosing eco-friendly inks ensuring our footprint matches our intentions
We encourage our readers to support the businesses who share this vision When you visit them, you ’ re not just shopping local you ’ re investing in a future where Ventura’s voice stays authentic, its land stays healthy, and its stories stay home
With gratitude, The Sandpiper Team
A
N O T E F R O M
H E E D I T O R . . .
Welcome to the second issue of Sandpiper Magazine! As the holiday season settles in, I’m reminded once again why Ventura feels so special its beauty, its people, and the quiet generosity that seems to appear exactly when it’s needed most I thank God that I get to call this place home and do this work.
Putting this issue together has been a blast It’s a true privilege to get to know the people featured in these pages and to share their stories with you It also means more than I can express to offer healthful information that strengthens our community’s wellbeing and empowers readers with knowledge that matters
More than anything, I’m grateful for you for reading, for caring about this community, and for welcoming Sandpiper into your home Ventura continues to give me hope for the future The way our community shows up, with kindness and purpose, reminds me how strong we are when we stay connected. I hope these stories leave you feeling inspired, supported, and excited for the future we get to steward together
Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and deep gratitude Editor-in-Chief
Citrus & Seafoam
S a n d p i p e r
Winter Picks
Whale Watching!
Winter marks the return of the gray whale migration along our coastline, one of Ventura’s most reliable natural events and one many locals forget is happening just offshore Booking a harbor cruise this time of year offers a front-row seat to the movement of these animals as they travel south, often accompanied by dolphins and seabirds riding the same currents. It’s simple, close to home, and a refreshingly different way to experience the water we see every day For anyone who hasn’t gone in a while (or ever), winter is the season to finally do it.
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Frank Bauer Artwork
For a true glimpse of Ventura’s creative heart, look to local artist Frank Bauer Raised among the colors and textures of his parents’ tailor shop, he carried that early love of pattern into a career that eventually led him to painting and mosaic art After moving to coastal California, the ocean and local wildlife reshaped his style, inspiring the hand-glazed, hand-cut mosaics now featured in public installations across Ventura From large commissions to the vessels and paintings he shares at local art fairs, Bauer’s work reflects the craftsmanship, color, and community that define our coast
Celia Chocolatier Chocolates
Instagram: @bauer krafts
Celia’s began when two sisters in San Luis Obispo decided to leave their engineering degrees behind and pursue what truly inspired them: making exceptional chocolate Today, their bars are crafted with ethically sourced cacao and no palm oil, no emulsifiers, no preservatives, and no artificial flavors just clean, simple ingredients that let the cacao shine A perfect pick for the season, Celia’s makes gifting, sharing, or enjoying a little moment to yourself that much sweeter!
Founded right here in Ventura County, Rad Can is functional sparkling water that fuels you Each can delivers clean hydration to support energy, focus, and recovery no sugar, no filler, just organic ingredients that work, including lion’s mane for mental clarity, cordyceps for endurance, and reishi for balance. Rad Can doesn’t just fuel surfers, it backs them too As a proud sponsor of Flow Surf Academy, it keeps athletes hydrated while supporting inclusive surf programs across the Central Coast Rad Can is as committed to community as it is to wellness!
Website: theradcancom
Instagram: @radcanofficial
PHOTO BY CHRIS STHELE
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PHOTO BY NICK SAMMONS
Sloan Ranch Beef
For a true taste of Ventura, look no further than Sloan Ranch Beef. This family-run ranch raises premium cattle right here in the hills of Ventura County no hormones, no antibiotics, just clean, richly flavored beef you can trust Buying directly from Sloan Ranch means supporting local agriculture while savoring unmatched quality that bigname brands can’t replicate Their curated beef bundles make thoughtful (and delicious!) holiday gifts for the food lovers in your life because nothing says “shop local” quite like a box of Ventura’s finest!
Website: sloanranchbeef com
Instagram: @sloanranchbeef
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Honey Bear Christmas Trees
1929 Johnson Dr, Ventura CA 93003
805-236-3821
Honey Bear Trees brings the season to life with fresh-cut Christmas trees and a warm, family-run touch Now in their third year at the Montalvo Little League lot, this local crew offers more than just trees Families can enjoy kid-friendly activities like “Find the Honey Bear,” ornament decorating, and letters to Santa, plus every tree comes with a complimentary bottle of honey! The farm partners with Montalvo Little League and supports fundraising for ten local schools and sports teams, including special fundraising nights where families can enjoy tacos and a movie with Santa. With full-service help from fresh cuts and stands to netting, tying, and delivery, Honey Bear Trees makes bringing home your holiday centerpiece easy, memorable, and wholeheartedly local!
Website: honeybearchristmastrees com
Instagram: @honeybear trees ventura
LIGHT MEDICINE
HOW WINTER’S GLOW HEALS THE BODY FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Winter in Ventura brings a quieter kind of stillness. The sun drops low, the sea glows like glass and daylight drapes everything in gold. Fewer hours of sunlight mean slower mornings, earlier nights, and sometimes a dip in energy or mood. Yet this shift isn’t just about light it’s about how our bodies respond to it. How we receive light shapes how we feel.
Our cells respond to it. Morning sunlight helps regulate hormones that keep you focused and steady. The red wavelengths that appear at sunrise and sunset awaken the body’s natural rhythm, supporting renewal and calm.
That’s why those warm Ventura sunsets sink into you so deeply; it’s not just beauty it’s biology.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEINZ LEHNERER
“That’s why those warm Ventura sunsets sink into you so deeply; it’s not just beauty it’s biology.”
Still, our bodies notice the change. Shorter days mean less exposure to those restorative red wavelengths that our cells crave especially in the cooler months when we spend more time indoors
In other parts of the world, winter brings long stretches of darkness weeks where the sun barely rises above the horizon Many people there experience something called Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD: a form of depression linked to the lack of sunlight. When daylight dwindles, serotonin (the “feel-good” hormone) drops, melatonin production surges, and the body’s clock drifts out of sync. The result? Fatigue, irritability, and a quiet kind of restlessness that settles deep in the bones.
Have you ever wondered why that doesn’t seem to happen as often here? Ventura’s light, even in winter, is forgiving The coast reflects brightness long after sunset, and our mild climate invites us outside year-round.
That’s where modern “light medicine” steps in. Red and near-infrared light can mimic the regenerative frequencies of sunrise and sunset, helping replenish the same energy our cells use to heal. It’s not about chasing summer it’s about supporting the body when nature dims the switch
Light, whether it’s the sun over the Pacific or a gentle red glow in your living room, is more than illumination it’s information It tells the body when to rise, when to rest, and how to repair.
This winter, let it nourish you.
The Art of a Handwritten Note
REDISCOVER THE CHARM OF HANDWRITTEN THOUGHTS
In a world ruled by screens and typing, there’s something grounding about putting pen to paper. Whether you ’ re journaling, making a list, sketching between sips of coffee, or leaving a note on the counter, writing by hand connects us to our thoughts in a way digital tools rarely do Paper doesn’t buzz with alerts A pen won’t ask for a software update Together, they offer a quiet space uninterrupted, honest, and fully your own
With Valentine’s Day here, that same simplicity becomes a gift. A handwritten note doesn’t vanish in a feed or get lost in a thread. It can be tucked into a coat pocket, saved in a drawer, slipped between pages of a book to be found again years later It’s a reminder that someone paused long enough to put feeling into words deliberate, imperfect, real
So this Valentine’s Day, take a moment Reach for a card, a sheet of stationery, or the back of a favorite photograph. Write a line, a memory, a hope, or simply a “thank you for being in my life.” Often, the most meaningful gifts aren’t purchased!
Pro Tip: CheckoutBZPaperie—a beautifullocalspotoffering beginner-friendlycalligraphy classesandplentyofpapers, pens,andinkstoelevateyour handwritten notes! 442EMainSt.,Ventura,CA (805)628-3232.
Offer what everyone wants more of: time. A homemade meal, a movie night, or an afternoon together can feel more generous than anything wrapped
Second Chance
Thoughtful gifts don’t have to be new A thrifted vase, a favorite book, or something lovingly repurposed brings personality, sustainability, and heart.
NEWYEAR,REA HOWTOMAKEYOURRE
According to a Forbes Health survey, roughly 80% by the end of the first month Fewer than one in te not about trying harder Maybe it’s about starting s
Small Moves, Big Shifts
The habits that last aren t fueled by a burst of motivation; they build slowly through consistency Taking ten minutes to stretch before the day starts Stepping outside for salt air before reaching for your phone Setting aside one evening a week to cook a real meal, not just grab takeout on the run These aren t grand declarations they re small deliberate choices that create steadiness The kind that build a rhythm you can actually live in
Let Your Space Work for You
Habits stick when tied to familiar settings The bench by the dunes The corner café where you write The stretch of sand that always resets your breathing Ventura offers spaces that match nearly any intention calm when you need reflection, energy when you re ready to move community when you crave connection Let your surroundings support the kind of life you ’ re working toward
Keep Coming Back
Transformation happens in the simple restarts the mornings you try again, the choices you make without announcing them This year, maybe the goal isn t reinvention Maybe it’s rhythm a gentle return, over and over, to what makes you feel alive
February but that s not failure that’s information It’s your cue to ask, what actually feels good? The routines we keep are the ones that give more than they take Maybe journaling feels forced but a walk after dinner clears your head Maybe it s not the gym you crave but movement that feels like play The more personal your rhythm, the easier it is to return to it
The Grace of Starting Over
No one keeps perfect streaks Even the most motivated stumble What matters isn t never missing; it s returning when you do A resolution isn’t a pass-or-fail test it’s a practice Each time you begin again, you remind yourself that progress grows through motion, not perfection
50ShadesofCitrus
Decoding Citrus Colors and their Benefits
While other regions wait for spring, our mild nights, and frost-friendly climate let citrus ripen at its sweetest this time of year Slow growing, bright flavor, peak juiciness all in the middle of winter!
ORANGES,MANDARINS,TANGERINES
Beta-carotene; vitamin C
Supports skin, vision and immune function
Provides antioxidant and collagen support
Mild carotenoid + flavonoid compounds
Sweet, bright gently acidic
MANDARINES,CLEMENTINES,NAVALS
Vitamin C; beta-carotene
Supports immune and skin function
Offers antioxidant and collagen support
Flavonoids with mild anti-inflammatory activity
Sweet low acidity; easy-eating segments
LEMONS,MEYERLEMONS
Vitamin C
Supports skin and immune function
Flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol
Bright acidity; Meyer is softer floral slightly sweet
LIMES
Vitamin C
Supports skin and immune function
Provides antioxidant and collagen support
Flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol
Bright sharp acidity; refreshing
BLOODORANGES,CARACARAORANGES,PINKGRAPEFRUIT
Lycopene; anthocyanins; vitamin C
Supports cardiovascular health and skin photoprotection
Provides collagen and immune support
Rich pigments with strong antioxidant activity
Sweet-tart; berry-like notes; naturally pink or ruby flesh
Citrus + Thyme Sheet-Pan Salmon
Ingredients & Recipe:
1 Prep the pan: Line a baking sheetwith parchment paper and drizzle lightlywith olive oil
2 Layerthe aromatics: Scatterthe red onion slices and cherry tomato halves across the parchmentto form a base
3 salmon fillets (skin on)
1 lemon, thinly sliced
1 orange, thinly sliced
1 small red onion, sliced into rings
1 cup cherrytomatoes, halved
Fresh thyme sprigs
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 Add the salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on top ofthe vegetables Season generouslywith salt and black pepper
4.Top with citrus: Arrange the lemon and orange slices over and around each fillet so every piece is in contactwith the citrus
5 Finish with herbs + oil: Tuck several fresh thyme sprigs around the salmon, then drizzle the entire sheet pan with the remaining olive oil
6 Roast: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 14–18 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is just cooked through and the tomatoes have softened.
7 Serve: Spoon the roasted citrus and pan juices over the salmon for a bright, aromatic finish
Adrenal Mocktails
Bright, mineral-supporting refreshers for all-day energy
Golden Citrus Spritz
Ingredients:
½ cup fresh navel orange juice
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
¼ cup coconut water
Pinch of mineral salt
1 tsp honey (optional)
Sparkling water
Ice + orange slice
Instructions:
Shake the juices, coconut water, salt, and honey with ice until cold Pour into a tall glass, top with sparkling water, and garnish with a navel orange slice
Mint Condition
Ingredients:
¼ cup fresh lime juice
½ cup fresh mandarin or tangerine juice
¼ cup coconut water
Pinch of mineral salt
1 tsp agave (optional)
4–5 mint leaves
Ice + lime wheel + mint sprig
Instructions:
Gently press (don t crush) mint leaves in the bottom of a shaker Add juices coconut water salt, and agave Shake with ice Strain over fresh ice and garnish with mint + lime
Grapefruit Cooler
Ingredients:
½ cup ruby grapefruit juice
¼ cup fresh orange juice
¼ cup coconut water
Pinch of mineral salt
1 tsp maple syrup or agave (optional)
Ice + grapefruit wedge + mint sprig
Instructions:
Stir juices coconut water and salt until fully combined Pour over ice and sweeten only if needed Garnish with a crisp grapefruit wedge and a mint leaf
your fruit be tasty and bright!!
Adrenals, explained...
Your adrenals are two tiny glands perched on top of your kidneys, and they have a big say in how you feel They help you manage stress, keep your energy steady, balance your electrolytes, and support mood and immunity When life gets hectic, they work overtime which can leave you feeling tired, foggy, or just a little “off”
While no drink can fix stress, these citrus-based mocktails offer nutrients your adrenals rely on to do their job
Vitamin C abundant in winter citrus like oranges, mandarins, limes, and grapefruit is one of the key nutrients your adrenals rely on Paired with electrolytes such as sodium and potassium these mocktails offer steady hydration and gentle support for the body’s stress response Together, they create a bright, non-caffeinated way to feel a little more balanced during busy seasons
It s not a cure-all, just a small, supportive ritual that tastes good and helps you slow down for a moment!
GLOW REDEFINED
WHY IT WORKS:
Energizes cells: Lowwavelength red and near-infrared light encourage natural energy production for refreshed, balanced skin and body
Supports mood and balance: The calming warmth of red light may help you unwind and reset your natural rhythm.
Promotes radiant skin: Gentle light exposure may support collagen activity, helping skin look smoother and more rejuvenated
Encourages recovery: Many wellness enthusiasts use it after workouts or long days to feel restored and relaxed
WHY EVERYONE'S TALKING ABOUT
RED LIGHT
In the 1990s, NASA scientists were studying how to help plants grow in zero gravity using LED lights. During these experiments, they discovered something unexpected: the same red wavelengths that helped plants thrive also stimulated cell growth and repair in humans. Astronauts exposed to red light experienced faster wound healing and reduced muscle and bone loss, which was a big deal for long missions.
From there, research on photobiomodulation (the scientific name for red light therapy) took off showing benefits for skin rejuvenation, inflammation reduction, muscle recovery, and mood What began as a high-tech tool for space explorers is now a wellness staple for everyone from athletes to aestheticians to your neighbor down the street with a glowing at-home panel
IrisLoveWellness&Boutique
“Iwantedto createa sanctuarythat feltboth groundingand luminous a spacewherelove, ritual,and healingflow together.”
A Sanctuary Where Self Care Meets the Sea
Iris Love Wellness & Boutique blends modern healing therapies with intuitive care in a serene space just blocks from the Ventura shoreline It s a boutique built on beauty ritual and the belief that true wellness begins within
“Iris Love Wellness & Boutique has been a dream evolving for many years, ” Iris says “I wanted to help people feel better and do better ” Everything shifted when she became a massage therapist: “I saw the power of touch presence intention and energy bring healing
With a background in the medical field and formal training in Thai and Swedish massage combined with advanced study in the Silva Method and energy-based work she brings a deeply integrated approach that blends clinical understanding with energetic and intuitive care “Western medicine, while important, has its limits,” she says “I felt called toward a more holistic understanding of wellness one that honors the physical, emotional, energetic, and spiritual layers of healing
HaloRed Therapy
HaloRed therapy, a fusion of red-light and salt-based healing that bathes the body in gentle light while ultrafine salt clears the lungs and calms the nervous system.
Massage & Energy Work
Guests often pair HaloRed with massage and energy work customized to their needs, helping the body, mind, and breath return to harmony.
Tarot & Astrology
On Sundays, walk-in Tarot and astrology readings take place in the upstairs sanctuary — a serene, light-filled room designed for reflection, intuition, and spiritual care.
HaloRed therapy is the boutique’s signature offering and its most transformative Designed to support cellular repair respiratory clarity, and energetic reset, it reflects Iris s belief in healing that s both sensory and science-supported For guests who are overstimulated or run down, the experience becomes a full-body pause Each modality speaks a different language of the body” she says “Light invites cellular ease, salty air calms the lungs and massage therapy sends a whisper of relaxation up through the nervous system ” By layering these therapies Iris creates a space where the body remembers how to return to balance
For deeper renewal, the boutique offers massage and energy work personalized to each guest Sessions are led by Iris and her team and draw from multiple healing traditions Amanda one of the boutique s massage therapists brings a grounded heart-centered depth to each session through her background in psychotherapy Reiki Mastery, Thai and Swedish massage The result is an experience that helps tension melt and presence return leaving the body relaxed, restored, and reconnected
What sets Iris Love Wellness & Boutique apart is its seamless blend of advanced therapy and soulful ritual Light panels and halotherapy meet crystals and incense; massage flows naturally into energy work Every offering draws on both deep training and intuitive presence creating experiences that feel elevated yet deeply restorative I wanted to create a sanctuary that felt both grounding and luminous a space where love ritual, and healing flow together
That intention carries into every corner of the boutique Shelves are lined with hand-selected items from Iris’s travels Karuna clothing from Costa Rica, bathing suits from Tulum copal incense from Guatemala alongside books and artisanmade pieces that have supported her own path Even the thriving greenery is curated with care My plants, she smiles The natural light that pours in and the green life up the stairs always makes me smile I actually sell many of the plants people dont usually notice that
As winter invites inwardness Iris Love becomes a place of sensory comfort: redlight warmth, halotherapy clarity and massage that settles the nervous system into repair “Once your mind becomes your partner through visualization, intention and relaxing into possibility you claim that capacity, Iris says Trust yourself and care for yourself My mantra to you: better and better
Visit: 1071 S Seaward Avenue, Ventura CA
Website: irisloveventuracom
Instagram: @irisloveventura
H A LOT H E R A P Y
Halotherapy is a simple concept: you sit in a room where a halogenerator disperses microscopic, pharmaceutical-grade salt into the air, creating an environment that mirrors traditional salt-cave therapy The experience is calm and unhurried soft lighting, steady breathing, and air that feels noticeably dry and clean Many people use it for respiratory ease, since fine salt particles may help thin mucus and soothe irritated airways Others notice skin benefits from salt’s natural antimicrobial qualities And for plenty of guests, the quiet atmosphere becomes the real draw: a low-effort reset that leaves you feeling clearer than when you walked in
5 Sustainable Ways to Use Winter Citrus
Winter Citrus Simmer Pot (Stovetop Potpourri)
A pot of citrus slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and a little rosemary simmering on low warms and brightens up the whole house
Want to impress your guests this holiday season?
These easy ideas put every peel and slice to work in ways you might not expect
They make the holidays feel fancy and they take no time at all!
DIY Citrus Cleaning Spray
Save your citrus peels (orange, lemon, grapefruit) Soak them in white vinegar for 1–2 weeks, strain, and dilute with water 2
DIY Citrus Christmas Ornaments
Thinly slice oranges or blood oranges, bake at low heat until dry, then string with twine Hang them on trees, gift bags, and garlands 3
Citrus Sugar for Toast, Tea, or Holiday Baking
Save zest from oranges, lemons, or tangerines, let it air dry overnight, and stir it into a jar of sugar Use it on toast, in tea, or on top of holiday cookies
Citrus Peel Fire-Lighter
Let peels air dry on the counter, then use them as kindling Citrus oils catch flame easily and release a subtle scent Perfect for fire pits, fire places, or camping
CORNER OF PIERPONT AND SEAWARD !
Dr. Cardellino has over 30 years of clinical experience and training in mercurysafe replacement protocols.
20% OFF Mercury-Safe Filling Replacement
Mercury-Safe Filling Replacement
Dr. Lori Cardellino Dr.LoriCardellino
5 Questions About Biologic Dentistry
We asked Dr Lori Cardellino about biologic dentistry and the philosophy that guides her work Here, she explains her views and approach in her own words
What inspired your focus on Integrative Biological Dentistry?
“Over 30 years ago, when I first began in dental school, it became clear to me that oral health and overall wellness are connected My training in Integrative Biologic Dentistry encouraged me to look beyond teeth alone and consider how dental materials, infections, and inflammation may relate to a person ’ s broader health picture I believe oral health can influence how people feel overall, and that dental materials or infections can have broader implications if not addressed ”
Why is mercury-safe removal important?
“Amalgam fillings contain about 50% elemental mercury Removing them without proper protocols can release high levels of mercury vapor My practice has always used strict, widely adopted mercuryremoval protocols to protect my patients, my staff myself, and the planet Mercury pollution is a current major global environmental issue and my career has always been focused on a practice model that reduces dentistry s part in mercury pollution
Who should consider an evaluation by a biological dentist?
“Anyone with silver fillings root canals, or older dental work may benefit from an evaluation Some people who are navigating ongoing health concerns choose to explore dental factors as part of their broader wellness picture My role is to identify any dental issues that may need attention and help patients understand their options
What’s the biggest misconception about biological dentistry?
That it s alternative It isnt It s evidence-informed dentistry that considers toxicology, biocompatibility and how oral health may relate to overall wellness Many patients seek out this approach because they want care that aligns with their broader wellness goals, and patients have come to see me from across the U S and from other countries who connect with this philosophy ”
What sets you apart from other biological dentists?
Experience I have practiced this holistic philosophy my entire career Over the years, I have treated many patients with a focus on mercurysafe protocols and biocompatibility More than three decades of clinical experience have given me a deeper understanding of how to approach dentistry in a way that considers a person ’ s broader wellness picture ”
Visit: 1020 S Seaward Ave, Ventura, CA
(805) 232-4310
Website: DrLoriCardellinocom
Lori Cardellino, DMD, IBDM
Since 1991, Duke’s Beach Grill has been part of Ventura’s heartbeat a place where surfers, families, and beach-goers gather over good food and familiar faces “Just steps from the beach, Duke’s is more than great burgers, tacos, and seafood,” says Owner Dave Child “The love and loyalty of our locals and visitors is what makes us more than just a community”
The menu covers every craving juicy burgers, crisp fish-and-chips, Baja-style tacos, and fresh salads served with ocean air Inside, the team feels like family “Some have been here for decades,” Dave shares “They truly love this community and love to share it with everyone as a family”
From Taco Tuesdays to live sports and music nights, Duke’s keeps Pierpont’s local energy alive all year “Our goal is to create lasting memories and good times with friends and family,” Dave says And after more than three decades, it’s clear there’s only one Duke’s Beach Grill, and Ventura wouldn’t be the same without it.
Visit: 1124 S Seaward Ave, Ventura CA (805) 667-8411
Website: dukesbeachgrill com Instagram: @dukesventura
Visit: 1105 S Seaward Ave, Ventura, CA Website: socialtapventuraca com Instagram: @socialtapventura
When the game ’ s on and Seaward gets that late-day breeze, Social Tap is where Ventura gathers House-made plates, local beers on tap, and crowd favorites like their fish tacos and signature wings keep the place buzzing from lunch through last call With its lively patio, plenty of screens and that unmistakable Pierpont energy, Social Tap delivers the kind of neighborhood hangout where good food meets better company and every night feels a little like the weekend
PIERPONT IN C O L O R
How murals and mosaics along Seaward Avenue reflect the neighborhood’s identity, history, and evolving sense of place.
Pierpont has always expressed its identity through small, steady acts of care from hand-planted medians to familiar storefronts that locals recognize by feel rather than signage
In recent years public art has become another way the neighborhood defines itself Along Seaward Avenue, two projects in particular the ceramic mosaic at the beach end and the mural at Juiceswell illustrate how residents, artists, and business owners are shaping the corridor with pieces that reflect Pierpont s environment, history, and tightly woven community
The Mosaic at Seaward and Pierpont: Environment, History, and Stewardship
Installed in 2025 the ceramic mosaic by local artist Frank Bauer builds on nearly a decade of neighborhood improvements through the Pierpont Bay Community Council s Seaward Beautification Plan Initiated in 2016 the plan focused on practical upgrades replanting the median with coastal vegetation adding a welcome sign improving nighttime lighting through the “Light Up Seaward” effort and incorporating seasonal décor Introducing public art was the next step: a way to turn functional spaces into expressions of place
Vice-chair Dan Rountree frames the intention simply: “The mosaic trash cans and benches came about as part of a beautification master plan taking ugly parts of the street and making them beautiful His goal has long been to convert overlooked corners into features residents could take pride in
The mosaic’s imagery was chosen with similar purpose “The rogue wave panel, the beach scene panel the school of fish panel and the majestic sunset panel were all chosen to reflect our local community, Rountree says The design connects directly to the neighborhood s shoreline, weather patterns, and history elements that define daily life at the end of Seaward
Bauer incorporated small details that reward repeat viewing “There are little easter eggs like all the fish swimming one direction except one, ” he explains His tiles also challenge expectations of traditional mosaics: People think of mosaics as sharp broken dishes My pieces have a pillowy effect softer handmade unexpected
Together, the Beautification Plan and the mosaic show how public art is being used not as ornamentation, but as a record of Pierpont’s landscape and collective memory As residents and visitors move between the sand and the street the installation now serves as a visual marker of the neighborhood s character
The Juiceswell Mural: People, Memory and Community Identity
A few blocks north the mural on the exterior of Juiceswell tells a story centered on the people who shape Pierpont Commissioned in 2022 by shop owner Keith Repult and created by local artists Cynthia Polk and Vince Felix the piece transforms a once-blank wall into a warm coastal scene populated entirely by community members
Felix describes the approach:
“Every person on the mural even the dogs are from the Pierpont community.”
Locals often recognize friends neighbors, or themselves in the composition turning the mural into an informal record of daily life along Seaward Avenue For some residents, it has become a point of remembrance; for others, a symbol of continuity
Felix also emphasizes something fundamental about the neighborhood: “Pierpont is the only real beach community in Ventura where anyone can park on the street, walk down the lanes, and sit on the sand”
That accessibility and the tightly knit relationships that come with it anchors the mural s meaning Polk often notes the collaborative feel of Seaward’s businesses and residents, where support for community events and local efforts overlaps naturally The mural captures that sense of familiarity and shared ownership
A Neighborhood Expressing Itself
Seen together the mosaic and the mural show how Pierpont uses public art to reflect both its environment and its community One centers the coastline and local history; the other highlights the people who give the neighborhood its day-to-day rhythm Both emerged from partnerships between residents artists and local businesses continuing a pattern of community-led stewardship that has defined Seaward Avenue for nearly a decade
As Pierpont evolves, these artworks help maintain a sense of continuity They serve as visual anchors, reminders of what residents value, and touchpoints for a neighborhood with a strong identity and a clear sense of place In full color along Seaward Avenue, Pierpont is telling its story past present and what it hopes to carry forward
INSIDE BAUER’S CERAMIC STUDIO: EACH INDIVIDUAL TILE IS MADE, GLAZED, AND PLACED BY HAND
Beauty as Reclamation in the Heart of Pierpont
In Venturas Pierpont neighborhood, art lives in many forms mosaics along Seaward Avenue murals tucked between storefronts and the everchanging color of the coastline But inside one upstairs studio on this coastal street art becomes something far more personal: the kind that restores confidence identity and the feeling of belonging in one ’ s own skin
Pretty in Ink owned by Vince Felix and Cynthia Polk, has grown into one of Venturas most trusted spaces for both tattoo artistry and restorative cosmetic work The studio stays busy appointments booked weeks in advance locals dropping in to say hello but the atmosphere feels nothing like the stereotypical tattoo shop That was intentional After nearly three decades in the industry, Cynthia knew exactly what she wanted to create: a warm comfortable space where anyone could feel at ease
“Iwantedastudiowherean18-year-oldgettinga first piercing, a baby having their ears pierced, or a 95-year-old getting their first tattoo would all feel equally comfortable. A place that felt welcominginsteadofintimidating.”
Cynthia is a Certified Permanent Dermal Artist (CPDA) whose expertise spans both decorative and paramedical tattooing She specializes in scar camouflage areola restoration for breast-cancer survivors and naturallooking permanent cosmetics Her approach blends color theory, anatomy and an intuitive sense for what will harmonize with someone s features
“Getting to know somebody first is crucial,” she explains “Permanent cosmetics is about color mapping, and choosing something that feels like them not a trend ”
Her restorative work often carries emotional weight Clients come in to honor loved ones, move forward from old scars or reclaim parts of themselves after medical procedures Many even travel from out of state just to sit in Cynthias chair drawn by her mix of artistry training and compassion
Vince who grew up in Pierpont, brings a strong sense of connection to the neighborhood and to the people who walk through the door He helps clients refine ideas so they ll still feel proud of them years down the line “Sometimes people come in with an idea that doesn’t really compliment them he says We help them find something better, and later they come back saying, Im so proud of this That matters
Inside the studio feels intentional and personal The walls display Vince and Cynthias own artwork from paintings to hand-drawn designs, giving the space a gallery-like feel Much of the equipment and setup reflects Cynthia’s signature touch pops of pink throughout her tools, organization and workspace, creating an environment that feels both professional and distinctly hers
Cynthia pours herself into every appointment I make sure every single piece I do is going to be my favorite” she says “Even if it’s simple if they love it and I know I did my best work, that s what matters For her, artistry and intention are inseparable
She also believes comfort is as important as the art itself A small part of getting a tattoo is the tattoo,” she says “Feeling comfortable in your surroundings, feeling confident when you leave that’s the whole tattoo ”
That sense of care extends into the neighborhood Families come here instead of the mall for childrens piercings, preferring a familiar face they trust Many clients leave not just with aftercare instructions, but with Cynthia’s personal number and an open-door invitation: Reach out anytime You re a friend now
"We’repassionateaboutfamily andwe’repassionateabout community.Wetrytoputallof thatintoeverythingwedo."
On the first Friday of every month, the studio’s balcony transforms into a small community stage From up there, you can see from the mountains to the ocean a view that becomes part of the magic Local bands play, neighbors gather with folding chairs, and kids dance in the street It feels less like an event and more like a tradition a reflection of what Vince and Cynthia bring to Pierpont simply by being themselves
We re passionate about family and we re passionate about community” they say “We try to put all of that into everything we do ”
In a beach community that wears its stories on its skin sun salt, scars Pretty in Ink offers a place where those stories can be written, or rewritten with care
Visit: 1122 S Seaward Ave Ventura, CA
Website: prettyinink805com
Instagram: @prettyinink805
Mystic Water Kava Bar MysticWaterKavaBar
A Better Kind of Night Out!
Seaward Avenue has a new kind of pulse after dark Inside Mystic Water Kava Bar, the lights are low the music is gentle, and the pace shifts the moment you step through the door People settle into the room easily not for caffeine or cocktails but for calm
Owner Avigdor Weber who has taught Kundalini yoga since 2009 after beginning his practice in the early 2000s, designed the space as a refuge from overstimulation “We’re a place to unwind from the world,” he says “If you ’ re looking for somewhere to retreat from a busy day or stressful week and don t want the alcohol scene come visit See for yourself
Kava the earthy root at the center of this gathering has been shared across the Pacific Islands for centuries “When we drink kava, we clap twice, say bula, drink and clap once more, ” Avigdor explains “Those first claps muffled low are meant to soothe the community Bula means ‘to life ’ The final clap marks that you ve taken your shell
For Avigdor, the meaning of kava has less to do with what’s in the cup and more to do with what happens around it the slowing down the ease between people, the way community forms naturally when the pace softens Kava helps you drop your masks so you can meet people more openly and honestly, he says Because you re not inebriated the connections you make are real If you met someone at a bar, you might avoid them later at the grocery store If you met over kava, you d stop and talk for twenty minutes That same ease carries into Mystic Water’s weekly gatherings low-key events where regulars and newcomers often end up connecting like old friends
Mystic Water has become more than a kava bar it’s a small ecosystem of calm Beyond the main room, Avigdor leads private meditation and breathwork sessions for groups of up to six at the bar, with larger group sessions available off-site He also integrates frequency-based wellness tools, including an acoustic sound bed that channels sound through the body and a Rife machine that uses gentle biofeedback frequencies to encourage balance and awareness
Visit: 1124 S Seaward Ave, Ventura, CA
Website: mysticwaterkavabar com
Instagram: @mysticwaterkavabar
Experienceajourneyintokava andthevibroacousticsoundbed foronly$75whenyousay “Sandpipersentyou!” 50%OFF Appointmentsandwalk-ins welcome.
For those trying kava for the first time the experience is simple Kava is a ceremonial tea and at Mystic Water the tradition is brought directly to the table The root is brewed in the moment rather than in the kitchen, crafted with the guests’ own intentions as they prepare it themselves: a brief clap a toast of bula, and a steady quiet The taste is earthy and grounding Mystic Water also offers flavored kavas blended with coconut hibiscus or their homemade chai for those who prefer a smoother introduction to the drink s natural profile
Avigdor describes the bar s deeper purpose plainly:
“IlovesharingwhatI’velearnedanddiscoveredoverthe yearsthathasworkedformeandthatIbelievecanhelp othersaswell.That’sthetruepurposeofMysticWater toshareknowledgeandhelpeachothertransform.”
People tend to leave Mystic Water feeling a little more settled than when they arrived clearer, steadier, and more in touch with themselves Avigdor has always appreciated that kava feels grounding rather than habit-forming, and that quality shapes the kind of experience people tend to have here leaving calmer clearer, and more themselves The space doesn t push you to disconnect from life; it simply gives you room to meet it differently
BY CHRIS
FLOWSURF
Academy
WHERE OHANA MEANS EVERYBODY BELONGS IN THE WATER
Ventura s surf culture has always been part of daily life tides discussed as naturally as weather, wetsuits drying on balconies, families planning weekends around wind and swell But for some families, the idea of surfing once felt out of reach Flow Surf Academy is changing that By bringing adaptive, inclusive surf programs to our coastline, Flow ensures that the joy of catching a wave belongs to everyone
Founded by longtime surf-therapy leader Pat Notaro III, Flow grew out of two decades of work serving children with special needs in the ocean The academy s name For Love Of Waves reflects its belief that surfing can transform lives when instruction is rooted in safety trust, and joy Experienced instructors and trained volunteers support each athlete with one-on-one guidance that gives every surfer room to grow confident in the water
PHOTOGRAPHY
STEHLE
A Beach That Cheers for Every Child
Families arrive from all over Southern California for Ohana Days, Flow’s seasonal surf gatherings held on beaches up and down the Central Coast What happens there is hard to put into words, but easy to feel: encouragement, belonging, and pure joy
Before the first surfers arrive, volunteers are already setting up: boards out wetsuits organized, life jackets ready, snacks and water on standby Parents claim spots under umbrellas or near the shade tents a rare chance for them to sit and relax
By 9 am, surfers are in the water Some ride one wave Some ride ten Some stay out until they are gently persuaded back to shore And no matter what happens whether they stand up or simply glide in on their belly, the beach erupts in cheers Siblings, volunteers parents, first-timers, returning families the shoreline becomes an ohana!
From a Surfing Dog to a Movement
The Murphys first connected with Flow when their surfing dog Haole was invited to a local event Haole’s calm presence helped nervous kids feel safe in the water, and Kim and John never stopped showing up In 2023, they reached out to Pat to help bring Flow’s mission into action Today, they help coordinate Ohana Days and Wave Warriors, a year-round adaptive surf program vendored through the Tri-Counties Regional Center, ensuring cost is never a barrier to participation
Freedom
in the Water
For many Flow surfers the ocean is more than recreation it is one of the few places where their bodies feel at ease Lindsey’s son, Skylar, first got on a surfboard at just 2½ years old
“The water comforts him. He can just be Skylar.”
Everyday life requires more effort for him than it does for other children Lindsey says Out there he doesn t have to work so hard The water comforts him He can just be Skylar
Parents often describe Flow as a rare break from appointments and constant explaining For an hour or two, the only goal is joy and the ocean becomes a place where children are met with celebration rather than comparison
“Our goal is simple” Kim says “To give families a day where they feel supported welcomed, and safe and where kids can try something a lot of people never thought was possible for them”
More Than a Trophy
At the end of each session, everyone gathers for the trophy celebration These children aren t always part of sports leagues where awards are expected For some, it s the first time their effort is honored in a way that feels visible and real not for winning, but simply for being there and giving it their all
It means everything, Lindsey says Skylar lights up We bought a surfboard-shaped shelf just for his trophies The trophies aren't a ranking of who stood up or who rode the longest They honor bravery, progress, joy, and being
When Ventura Surf History Opened Its Arms
This year, at the C Street Classic, a Ventura surf contest with roughly four decades of history an inclusive longboard division was added for the very first time Six Flow surfers competed Volunteers and families lined the break One surfer rode wave after wave entirely on his own and won!
“We were all crying” Kim says “Not because of the trophy because of what it meant”
Not every child will surf independently and that isn’t the goal for every family But when it happens something shifts Not just for one surfer but for everyone watching
Community-Funded Community-Loved
Flow is 100% donation-supported Boards wetsuits sunscreen, meals hydration, shade: everything that makes these days possible comes from community generosity Local restaurants and cafés have fed families on the sand Surf shops and coastal brands have donated adaptive boards and wetsuits Beach gear snacks drinks, coffee sunscreen each contribution touches a real moment in a real family s life
You don t need to surf or even step into the water to be part of Flow Volunteers are welcomed with open arms from the moment they arrive Some greet new participants and help ease first-day nerves Others carry boards pass out snacks or make sure everyone stays hydrated There is always something to do and always someone ready to guide you Whether you are handing out sandwiches or clapping from the shore, your presence makes a difference
For those who hesitate, Lindsey offers the same advice: “Just come watch People think it’s going to feel heavy, but it’s not It’s pure joy You leave different than you came ”
Flow Surf Academy offers something essential: a community that shows up for each other Sometimes it isn t about progress or milestones It s about a beach full of people choosing joy, together, and making room for everyone in the water
Learn more and get involved Website: www flowsurfacademy org Instagram: @flowsurfacademy !
A Ventura Story:
The Dogs Who Surf Our Waves
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS STEHLE
These two dogs have forever changed our beach days in the best possible way!
At Flow Surf Academy s Ohana Surf Days, you ll notice Pancho almost immediately a yellow Lab in a life vest who can’t wait to get in the water He rides tandem with kids, paddles out beside instructors, and has become part of how many families experience the ocean But Pancho s story isn’t the beginning To understand why he’s here, you have to know the dog who came first
Before Pancho ever touched the water, there was Haole the original surf dog raised by Kim and John Murphy And before Flow became the community it is today Haole was already helping kids and families feel safe in the ocean
Kim and John didn t plan any of it They simply brought Haole to the beach because that’s where they spent their weekends One day, when Haole was four, John paddled toward the shore, stepped off his board, and before he could pick it up Haole walked straight into the shallows placed his paws on the deck, and climbed on From that day forward he surfed
The Murphys got a bigger board They pushed him into small waves He stood Calm, balanced steady
Someone suggested they enter him in a dog surf contest They did He won Then he won another
HAOLE - PHOTO BY JASON FRANK
“KIDS WHO CAN’T ALWAYS
CONNECT
EASILY WITH PEOPLE CAN CONNECT WITH PANCHO.”
And another What started as a simple beach hobby grew into Haole becoming Ventura s own surf Ambassadog
Haole appeared on The Today Show and Good Morning America He even surfed through the Rose Parade on Lucy Pet s Gnarly Crankin’ K-9 Wave Maker,” a wavemachine float that won multiple awards that year a moment that made surf dogs a national conversation He was featured on KTLA and became the subject of two children’s books, and people followed his story from all over the country But Ventura never forgot he was theirs
He wasn’t a trained service dog But he behaved like one, sensing when a child needed stillness and when they needed encouragement He didn’t rush He didn’t flinch Kids knew they were safe around him For many families, Haole helped their children feel confident enough to take part in the ocean not stay on the sidelines of it
When Haole passed away in 2020, families who had met him at the beach began sharing stories, photos and messages about what he meant to their children His impact didn’t fade with time; it showed up in memories and conversations and eventually in a place built to honor him
On the Ventura promenade, friends helped Kim and John create a memorial rock garden in his name a small stretch of walkway filled with painted stones, paw-prints, notes from kids and tributes from people who had never even met him The garden is now recommended by Visit Ventura as a “must-see” stop for visitors To this day, his impact echoes as locals and visitors alike leave rocks for their own loved ones
No one expects to have a surf dog in their lifetime, let alone two! So when Pancho showed up a yellow Lab named after Hawaiian surf legend Pancho Sullivan it didn’t occur to Kim and John that they might be standing at the beginning of another story
Kim would later explain that orange had always been Haole’s color his bandanas, his toys, and even the monarch butterflies people told her they started noticing after he passed “When the breeder sent the first photo of Pancho she said the puppy we ended up choosing was wearing an orange ribbon That’s when I thought, okay maybe we ’ re supposed to keep doing this
They didn t try to teach him to surf at first They just brought him to the beach But the first time John set Haole s old board in the shallows Pancho ran straight to it and climbed on like it was the most obvious thing in the world Looking back, Kim and John realized Pancho wasn t there to replace Haole he was there to keep the work going
Pancho is his own dog with his own way of doing this work Haole was calm and steady from the start but Pancho is all enthusiasm ready to paddle out again the moment his paws touch the sand And yet when a child needs a quiet moment in the water Pancho settles beside them patient and still as if he understands exactly why he s there
“If a child is overwhelmed ” Kim says “ an instructor can paddle over to Pancho and John, and it helps calm the situation Kids who can t always connect easily with people can connect with Pancho
Some kids tandem surf with him Others just need him nearby to get the courage to try again
FOR
MORE SURF DOG CONTENT CHECK OUT @HAOLEBOYSURFS ON INSTAGRAM!
BY DATHAN GRAHAM
Pancho has a board that is unmistakably his It was shaped in Ventura by Zero Surfboards, and Kim says he has never wiped out on it When the ride is over, he doesn t wait for help Pancho brings his board back to shore himself, dragging it up the sand and refusing to let anyone else retrieve it It’s the board he looks for at home, the one that tells him it’s time to work, and everyone at Flow knows it belongs to him
Haole may have started it, but Pancho proves the story isn’t over
These dogs didn t surf to impress anyone They did it because the ocean here feels good, and because the beach is better when we play in it!
So next time you re by the pier or watching the sets roll in, let these surf dogs remind you that there aren t many coastlines like ours and how lucky we are to call this one home
KIM & JOHN WITH PANCHO -
PHOTO
WINTER CHECKLIST
GET SOME RED LIGHT
Visit Iris Love Wellness & Boutique to experience this gentle winter recharge
ENJOY SOME CITRUS
Stop by a local farmstand for some peak-season sweetness that brings color and vitality to colder days
VISIT PIERPONT!
Explore the neighborhood, enjoy the art, and discover the small businesses that make this place feel alive
EXPERIENCE KAVA
Discover Ventura’s modern take on an ancient ritual
MAKE A MOCKTAIL
Sip on something nourishing and tasty that your body will appreciate
WRITE A NOTE OR LETTER
Put your words on paper, whether you ’ re giving or grounding
S A N D P I P E R
A little bird told me about it...
