Ventana April 2022

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APRIL 2022

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ventana

VOL.16 NO. 3

APRIL 2022

FEA TU R ES Editor’s Note

6 Dare to Dream

About Town 12 Resilience and Recovery Rising From the Ashes Home Tour Cover Story 20 A Camarillo Garden of Eden Martha Poulos plants her personal paradise.

Conversation 30 “Color Me Fearless” An interview with Janie Hewson of Inside

Individual - Business Payroll

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LLC Tax Relief www.llctaxrelief.com Hablamos espanol 4

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DEPARTMENTS COMMUNITY 8

Big Wish Gala

COMMUNITY 10

FIRST Robotics Competition

SHORT LIST 41

A preview of coming attractions

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COVER STORY: Martha Poulos in her beautiful Camarillo garden. Photo by Viktor Budnik

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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EDITOR IN CHIEF Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer

Photo by Kelly Mitchell Berg

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DARE TO DREAM

et me be frank: It feels a little remiss to write about lovely homes and gardens while a war rages on. I have the luxury of appreciating architecture, landscaping and interior design of local residences as the people of Ukraine are watching their own (as well as their cities, infrastructure and so much else) get demolished. I hope we can all look to the stories in this month’s issue with a sense of gratitude and appreciation for our good fortune, and keep those less fortunate in our thoughts. After all, it wasn’t so long ago that Ventura County faced its own time of trial. The devastation of the 2017 Thomas Fire is still with us in many ways, and the care and compassion shown to our community at that time should be repaid in kind now.

The Ventura hillside communities of Clearpoint, Ondulando and Skyline were at one point ground zero for the Thomas Fire, and the images of those neighborhoods reduced to ashes will be with us for a long, long time. But the massive rebuilding effort going on today is a reason for hope and optimism — and both will powerfully underline the upcoming Rising From the Ashes Home Tour. This tour will give the public a chance to see some of the gorgeous new homes that have emerged like phoenixes from that destruction. In many cases, dated tract homes have been replaced by smarter, safer, more diverse residences, and not a few dream homes have finally been realized. The tour takes place April 30, and

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you can get a taste of what’s in store in About Town.

On the heels of the Rising From the Ashes Home Tour will be the annual Camarillo Garden Tour, taking place on May 1 and featuring five inspiring outdoor spaces. Ventana Monthly had the privilege of exploring that belonging to Martha Poulos, featured on our cover.

And what a landscape it is! Meandering paths, water features, a rainbow of colors and lots and lots of edibles, with an orchard of fruit trees, fragrant herbs and a truly enviable vegetable garden. It reflects many of the things that, for Poulos, make life beautiful.

Making life beautiful is the concept that drives Janie Hewson of Inside Outside Style. It’s the motto prominently displayed on her company website, and it’s something she says often in her candid interview (featured in Conversation). Whether it’s indoors or out, sky’s the limit or on a budget, Hewson helps her clients make their dreams come true.

Dreams don’t always come true. But they can be a powerful source of courage, strength and hope. Three things the world can always use more of; three things that seem particularly necessary right now. This is a good time to dream about something better, and be inspired to put those dreams into action — for yourself, for the world, for all those in need.

– Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer nancy@ventanamonthly.com

CONTRIBUTORS Viktor Budnik Mike Nelson GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Nathalie Proulx ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Warren Barrett ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Barbara Kroon

C O N TA C T U S

ADVERTISING sales@ventanamonthly.com EDITORIAL nancy@ventanamonthly.com PHONE 805.648.2244 Ventana Magazine is direct mailed to 14,000 homes in the city of Ventura.

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BIG WISH GALA

FOUR SEASONS WESTLAKE VILLAGE All photos courtesy of Make-A-Wish® Tri-Counties

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ake-A-Wish® Tri-Counties hosted a special charity event, the Big Wish Gala, at the Four Seasons in Westlake Village, on Friday, March 18, 2022. The gala was held in person after a two-year break and guests were delighted to join together.

Guests enjoyed a magical evening that included a hosted cocktail reception, three-course dinner, lively silent and live auctions, wish stories and a very special performance by Grammy®nominated singer/songwriter Aloe Blacc. Among a few fun surprises was a wish reveal for “Wish Kid” Lilly, who was gifted a fun electric trike that she and her sister can ride in while being pedaled by one of their parents.

The Big Wish Gala is an annual charity event that helps raise critical funds needed to fulfill the wishes of local children with life-threatening medical conditions. All proceeds from the event will support programs for children living in Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. Over 300 guests were in attendance and raised over $424,000 to support wish granting.

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tri-counties.wish.org 1. Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Aloe Blacc. 2. Back row, l-r: Trevor Fase, John Pitstick, Carlo Brignardello, Nathan Matthews, Robert Purcell. Front row: Tami Fase, Mara Pitstick Dionne Brignardello, Courtney Matthews, Jennifer Purcell. 3. Wish Kid Lilly. 4. Aubrey and Tyler Kelly. 5. Cindy Dutra at the “living hands” wall.

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COMMUNITY FIRST ROBOTICS COMPETITION PORT OF HUENEME

All photos courtesy of the Port of Hueneme, Oxnard Harbor District

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arch 3-12, 2022, the Hueneme Port Regional and Ventura County Regional FIRST Robotics Competition (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was held at the Port of Hueneme. Dubbed a varsity “sport of the mind,” the event featured over 100 high school students from Brazil, Colombia, Colorado, Hawaii, Lesotho, Mexico, Singapore, Ventura County and Wyoming, testing the mettle (and metal) of their hand-built, original robots. Teams representing Ventura County included the high schools of Pacifica, Oxnard, Ventura, ACE Charter, Rancho Campana, Fillmore, Santa Paula, Camarillo, Simi Valley, Royal, Santa Susana and Newbury Park. FIRST Robotics is also involved with Rio Mesa, Hueneme, Channel Islands and Foothill high schools.

“Holding this year’s Robotics event at the Port of Hueneme perfectly aligns with the mission to transform our culture by creating a world where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders,” said Velma Lomax, event organizer and FIRST Regional Director of Southern California.

The 2022 FIRST Robotics Competition theme was “Cargo Connect” to spotlight the importance of moving cargo during a supply chain crisis, but also with a focus on the endless possibilities of robotics and technology with regards to transportation networks.

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On Saturday, March 12, the Port of Hueneme and the city of Port Hueneme presented a check donation to FIRST Robotics in the amount of $7,500 from the Community Benefit Fund.

Port Hueneme Mayor Richard Rollins said, “This is a wonderful opportunity for kids to utilize their education, experience and passion to solve real-world problems that will help mold their future development. I am excited to have this event take place here in the city of Port Hueneme and contributing as well as supporting it through the use of the Community Benefit Fund. STEM education is so important for our youth, and they are our future problem solvers.” www.portofhueneme.org www.firtsinspires.org

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1. Port of Hueneme/City of Port Hueneme Community Benefit Fund check presentation, from left: Oxnard Harbor District Commissioner Jess J. Ramirez; City of Port Hueneme Council Members Steven Gama and Misty Perez; Velma Lomax, FIRST Regional Director of Southern California; Mayor Pro Tem Bobby Martinez, City of Port Hueneme; President Mary Anne Rooney, Oxnard Harbor Commission; Ventura County Supervisor Carmen Ramirez, District 5; Brad “Brick” Conners, City Manager, Port Hueneme; Port of Hueneme CEO and Director Kristin Decas. 2. Santa Paula High School robotics team members work on their robot before the FIRST Robotics Competition held at the Port of Hueneme. 3. Students working on their robots ahead of the competition. 4. For FIRST robots, boot camp includes adding nuts, bolts and other improvements to get the “athlete” competition ready. 5. The robots in action at the 2022 FIRST Robotics Competition held at the Port of Hueneme. 6. The excitement builds as students cheer the competitors.

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RESILIENCE AN Rising From the Ashes Home Tour promises to be a beautiful and inspiring experience.

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BY NANCY D. LACKEY SHAFFER | PHOTOS BY KELLY MITCHELL BERG

he flames of the 2017 Thomas Fire died out long ago, but its effect on the Central Coast lingers. From burn scars on the hillsides to reshaped neighborhoods to the pervasive grief over the lives lost, the signs — and memories — of Thomas’ power and devastation remain.

In the wake of all this, the community proved its own strength, as people came together to grieve, offer support and rebuild.

Now, more than four years later, some residents of Ventura’s Ondulando, Clearpoint and Skyline neighborhoods — three areas heavily impacted CALIFORNIA CRAFTSMAN, vintage charm with drought-tolerant landscaping.

SWEET SIBLINGS in Topa Topa shirt and dress.

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by the Thomas Fire — are throwing open their doors and inviting the community into their homes to celebrate resilience and recovery. The Rising From the Ashes Home Tour will take place on Saturday, April 30, and serve as a fundraiser for the Ventura County Library Foundation. Several local businesses have helped sponsor the event as well, including Passion Flowers, Bruce Labins Architect and Associates, Moran Construction and Fence Factory.

“About a year ago, I was watching all this building going on,” recalls 8

ABOUT TOWN

ND RECOVERY

HILLTOP MODERN designed with contemporary lines and an eye for fire safety.

Marty Robinson, who serves on the foundation’s board and has been a key organizer for the event. “And I said, ‘you know, we need to do a home tour.’ . . . It’s just so exciting, to come back from such devastation.”

A RC H I T E C T U R A L D I V E R S I T Y Six homes in Ventura’s hillside communities will be featured on the tour, all distinct from each other.

“The houses range from an extraordinary Craftsman to a Mediterranean farmhouse — it’s quite striking,” Robinson says. “We’ve got a ‘hilltop modern,’ a Montecito ranch, which is charming.” The “island contemporary” home belonging to Charlie and Ken Kipp, whom Robinson describes as “Hawaii-philes,” has a very tropical feel, and boasts a backyard patio with outstanding views of the city, ocean and the Channel Islands.

In many cases, these homes are vastly different from what came before.

“Most of these houses were 60+ years old,” Robinson notes. “My house was only eight years old when it burned down, but most of these were older tract houses.”

In addition to cookie-cutter floor plans, several of the homes had layouts similar to what would have been used for a flat street, not a hillside.

“Many of the original houses didn’t take advantage of the views,” Robinson says. “Now you walk around, and some people have created their dream home.”

Such is the case for Cindy and Keith Lawrenz, who purchased their Clearpoint home in 2000. Now a beautiful example of the “Mediterranean farmhouse” style, it’s a lovely upgrade from their former “tract home from the 1970s.” Keith Lawrenz couldn’t be happier.

“The view, great windows . . . A much more comfortable layout in general. It’s now the way we would have done it if we’d had the chance in 2000.”

For Barbara Brown, “It’s not just a different house — it’s a whole Continued on page 14

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MEDITERRANEAN FARMHOUSE with stunning stonework and pops of color from plants and pottery.

different neighborhood.” After her traditional ranch home on Colina Vista in Ondulando burned down, she and her husband relocated to Skyline, and now reside in a chic contemporary house — Rising From the Ashes’ “hilltop modern.”

Why did they go in such a dramatically different direction?

“You have to make a decision in a really short amount of time,” Brown explains. “So we asked our architect, what sort of house won’t burn in a fire?”

Her modern masterpiece has plenty of good looks, but no attic, vents or wood on the outside where embers can find purchase.

“Our old home was chock full of memories,” Brown admits. Still, she’s felt very welcome in her new community. “Everyone has been super friendly. We got to know our next door neighbor almost immediately. This is what life has handed us.”

LO V E F O R LO C A L L I B R A R I E S “I understand peoples’ interest in seeing these homes,” Brown says about her decision to join the home tour. “People have curiosity.”

But more importantly, she recognizes the value of the fundraiser, which will support the Ventura County Library Foundation’s literacy programs, the Mobile Library, efforts to offer broader access to computers

and the Internet, homework tutoring, STEAM initiatives and more.

“I am a huge fan of the Friends of the Library,” says Brown. Growing up, her grandmother lived next to “the cutest hometown library” and it was always a treat to go there when she was a little girl. “I have fond memories of getting lost in books.”

Lawrenz says he was flattered to be asked to join the tour.

“They just knocked on the door,” he remembers. “That’s obviously a very nice compliment.”

And as a professional in the publishing industry, he feels an affinity for libraries.

“I work for SAGE Publishing in Thousand Oaks — it’s a nice tie-in with my job to support libraries.”

Mostly, however, Lawrenz is simply excited to show off his gorgeous new home.

“We’re really proud of what we’ve done and are happy to share.”

Sandy Berg, who also serves on the board of the Ventura County Library Foundation, notes that ticket sales have been “robust” and interest is growing — enough so that organizers hope to make the home tours a regular occurrence.

“We plan on it being an annual spring event,” Berg says. “Several homeowners have already indicated interest in their homes being on next year’s tour.”

Continued on page 16

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STO R I E S TO T E L L The subhead for Rising From the Ashes is “Visions to See and Stories to Tell.” That gets at the two aims for the tour: giving attendees a visual feast in terms of stunning architecture and design, and a feel for the journeys these homeowners took during the Thomas Fire and after.

Robinson isn’t just the tour organizer: She’s also a homeowner whose residence was claimed by the fire. Her home will not be part of the tour, but she has vivid memories of that time. One interesting dynamic she recalls taking shape: “We were dislocated to Camarillo . . . When we’d run into someone that did not lose their house, they’d be crying. We didn’t see it everyday [like they did] . . . driving around that destruction scars your soul.”

“For the people who had to live there,” she continues, “it looked like a war zone.”

PARTY IN THE BACK Cindy and Keith Lawrenz’s new home takes full advantage of the glorious hillside views.

The sense of a community coming together in a crisis looms large as well.

“One man from Ondulando would talk about the fact that nobody tried to go around each other during the evacuation,” says Robinson. Even as smoke filled the air and the flames threatened, “they helped people with their garage doors [and other complications] while they were evacuating.”

Another memory: “When we went to Costco we could always tell the people who were displaced by the fire. They were buying a bunch of Saturday, April 30, 12-4 p.m. underwear and socks, bedding and towels . . .”

R I S I N G F RO M T H E A S H E S H O M E TO U R : V I S I O N S TO S E E A N D STO R I E S TO T E L L

Homeowners will share some of their own experiences of that time, as well as discuss their new houses and the rebuilding process. Architects, landscapers and interior designers may be on hand in some cases as well.

“Everybody has a story,” Robinson sums up.

Go on the Rising from the Ashes Home Tour, and hear them for yourself. Perhaps seeing these beautiful residences will give you inspiration and ideas for your own home projects. Or perhaps you’ll simply be awed by the resilience that endured, and the creativity that emerged. v

Tickets are $40. To reduce crowds, tour starting locations have been staggered.

Please be sure to begin at the house designated on your ticket.

For tickets and more information, visit www.vclibraryfoundation.org/events.

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A CAMARILLO GARD Martha Poulos has planted her own personal paradise.

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BY MIKE NELSON | PHOTOS BY VIKTOR BUDNIK

dible, low maintenance and peaceful.”

Such were the marching orders — actually, the growing orders — from Martha Poulos, when she began an overhaul of her half-acre lot in Camarillo’s Mission Oaks neighborhood.

“I’ve always had a vegetable garden,” smiles Poulos, a retired database engineer and an anything-but-retired gardener. “I can remember having a garden when I was 5 years old growing up in Oakland, and I’d walk up and down the streets, identifying all the plants.

And that’s what I wanted when I bought this house five years ago.”

Less than three years after her re-design began, that’s what Poulos has — vegetable plants and fruit trees in abundance, along with drought-tolerant, aesthetically-pleasing, climate-friendly plant life that adds color and fragrance to what had been a lawn- and hardscape-dominant back and front yard.

Add in several water features (including a built-in hot tub), winding pathways, an enclosed, pet-friendly patio, an outdoor kitchen, a large and inviting patio and — most importantly — a pair of hammock chairs facing the Santa Monica Mountains to the south, and you have a yard that embodies exactly what Poulos envisioned.

“I wanted to create a peaceful feeling that also aroused curiosity for those who visit,” she says. “You come back here, relax and enjoy nature, and at the same time you can stroll along the paths that wind through the garden and make new discoveries.”

On May 1, the community will have the opportunity to do exactly that, when Poulos’ yard will be one of five unique outdoor designs featured in the annual Camarillo Garden Tour. One of Camarillo’s signature events, the tour’s proceeds benefit the Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association of Ventura.

Those who tour Poulos’ backyard will find a small-scale tribute to Camarillo’s agricultural heritage, given the variety of food-producing plants maintained on her property. A host of vegetable and herb plants line the east side, while the south and west sides feature multiple fruit trees.

STA RT I N G F R E S H But the garden — a collaboration between Poulos, a master gardener, and landscape designer Kyle Puerner of KP Land Design and

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Dirt Works Engineering — is only one component of the yard, for it is woven seamlessly into a landscape that is colorful, comfortable and above all natural.

“I wanted my yard to flow and blend with what my neighbors had,” she says. “When I bought this house, the backyard was basically lawn, bushes and hardscape. I told Kyle, ‘Bulldoze it — the whole thing.’”

Puerner — who met Poulos more than 30 years ago, during his long career at Green Meadow Nursery in Camarillo — was happy to oblige and participate in bringing his friend’s vision to reality.

“Martha is fun to work with because she’s so passionate about gardening, and yet she’s also very open to suggestions and to collaboration,” he says. “So the idea was to accommodate her passion and, at the same time, create a nice outdoor entertainment space.”

After discussing possibilities, they decided to go with drought-tolerant, low-water, edible varieties that are native to the region. “I also persuaded Martha to include some ornamentals, to add color and interest,” says Puerner. “As a result, everything you see here has a rhyme and reason.”

Actual work — the demo and then the hardscape — began taking shape in December 2019, just before the pandemic. Among the first items to be installed: an enclosed “cat patio” adjacent to the house on the east side of the property, with a glass wall on one side, iron grill gates and fencing on two sides, and a bevy of potted shade plants throughout as well as several Staghorn ferns on post-mounted containers.

“It’s actually a shade house, a nice protected area to keep the cats 8

COVER STORY

DEN OF EDEN

“IF THERE ARE PATHS, PEOPLE WILL WALK THEM,” says Martha Poulos. Her pathways invite both exploration and relaxation.

in and the coyotes out,” says Poulos. “It’s well-ventilated, protected from the sun and wind, and very comfortable.”

EDIBLE EDEN Once the hardscape was in, it was time for plants.

“I wanted to soften the overall look,” adds Poulos. “I like mixing greens and colors, and Kyle and I worked it out together. He’d spray-paint a line on the ground, we’d look it over, redo it if necessary, and repeat the process throughout the yard.

“He’s so good with design, and most of all he listens. He knew that I had to have my hammock chairs, and he made it happen.”

Said chairs are shaded and positioned near the back of the yard at the end of one pathway, with a fine view to the southeast. To one side of the chairs along the southern border is a bubbling vase fountain (which

Puerner created) that birds love to drink from, and which complements a built-in spa and waterfall situated along the western border. Both water features add to the peace and serenity of the environment.

But the stars of the show are the edibles, starting with the east side vegetable garden whose variety rivals any of Ventura County’s roadside produce stands. The array includes artichokes, Italian cardoons (similar to artichokes), carrots, dill, tomatoes, peppers, chard, beets, garlic, green onion, pineapple guava, celery, sweet potatoes, peas, cucumbers and squash.

“I love easy vegetables,” says Poulos, “and these are fun, easy and delicious.”

Along the southern end are nectarine, nectaplum and peach trees, plus a Chaste Tree, a drought-resistant flowering shrub from the Mediterranean. The western side has lemon, lime, apple, persimmon and dragonfruit (strawberry pear), more artichokes and rhubarb. Adding color to the ambiance are Torch Glow Bougainvillea, Silver Lupine and a Joseph’s Coat Continued on page 26

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SWING SHIFT Poulos enjoys her yard and views of the Santa Monica Mountains from her hammock chair (above).

GOOD TASTE Artichokes (inset) are just one of the many vegetables growing in this edible Eden.

rose bush (bursting with orange, pink and gold).

The sections are created within and connected by a series of DG (decomposed granite) pathways that are easy to care for and stroll along. “If there are paths, people will walk them,” smiles Poulos, who enjoys hiking almost as much as she enjoys gardening.

She also enjoys weeding, which is evident from the lack of weeds in her garden. “If I see one, I dig it out,” she says, as she digs one out. “No big deal; you do a little at a time, and it’s never overwhelming.”

G O W I T H T H E F LO W The peaceful look of the garden is enhanced by a small ribbon of lawn bordering the patio and by small mounds that add texture and visual

WATERY WHIMSY A bubbling blue fountain adds to the garden’s serenity.

Continued on page 28

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ABOVE Martha Poulos with landscape designer Kyle Puerner.

INSET Stone and succulents in the front yard.

interest to the landscape. That theme is carried into the front yard, where more mounds and native plants — including Blue Senecio, a succulent from South Africa — and a winding dry creek bed surround a tall flowering ornamental pear tree.

“We wanted everything to flow, from frontyard to back,” says Puerner.

“And when it’s all lit up at night, the garden takes on another form and dimension altogether.”

The frontyard also features natural seating, created by Puerner: two large boulders that form a cozy bench underneath the shade tree.

“I sat out here a lot during the shutdown,” says Poulos. “This is a very friendly neighborhood, where we all know and greet each other, and it was hard not to get together during that time. We’re hoping that changes soon.”

It took approximately nine months (to August 2020) for the redesign to be completed. But for Poulos, her garden is not only a dream realized but a dream in progress, given her proclivity for trying almost anything and everything in the way of plant life, albeit plant life suitable for the region’s relatively mild climate.

“I’m not afraid to make a mistake,” she says with conviction. “As an engineer, I like to figure out solutions and make ideas work. If something I try doesn’t work, I try something else.”

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The next major step is clearing and terracing the slope at the back of her property, making room for fig trees and more native plants. And Poulos is always thinking about new ways, and new plants, to keep her garden not only fresh and interesting, but always peaceful and attractive.

“Because,” she explains with a smile, “gardening is an evolutionary process.” v

C A M A R I L LO G A R D E N TO U R

The Camarillo Garden Tour, operated since its inception in 1996 by community volunteers, takes place Sunday, May 1, noon-4 p.m. Five residential gardens (including that belonging to Martha Poulos) are featured along with art exhibits and demonstrations, a garden-themed boutique, a raffle, live music and refreshments. Proceeds benefit the Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, which provides in-home care services and serves those who are experiencing a serious or end-of-life illness, or have suffered the loss of a loved one.

Tickets are $25. For information, call Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association, 805.642.0239; email lfrank@lmvna. org; or visit www.lmvna.org/gardentour.

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“COLOR ME FEAR Discussing the art of making life beautiful with Janie Hewson of Inside Outside Style.

“M

BY NANCY D. LACKEY SHAFFER | PHOTOS BY VIKTOR BUDNIK

ake Life Beautiful” is the motto of interior and landscape design outfit Inside Outside Style. It’s a concept the bright, enthusiastic and gregarious founder Janie Hewson (who owns and operates the company with her husband, Viktor Budnik) is committed to, in everything she does, whether that’s planting a drought-tolerant garden, updating an outmoded kitchen or conducting a soup-to-nuts remodeling project. Hewson talked freely with Ventana Monthly about her Valley Girl youth, her take-charge personality, her love of color, zeroing in on the designs clients love and more.

Tell us a little bit about yourself I love working with people — most of the time. And I love the systems of doing business — first this, then that, and wow isn’t that something!

If I met you on a bus, I would engage us in conversation. Then ask you what you did for a living. I would continue questioning you and you would tell me all kinds of things. Usually I would “see” ways for you to get more of what you want and would then share that with you. Usually my conversation companion would want to know more of how to get it and off we’d go. I see ways to get more of what you want and know how to present it back in ways that inspire.

I’m an atheist. I believe in the circle of life as illustrated by The Lion King. I’m very liberal . . . . I am opinionated . . . I am human, female, daughter, sister, mother, wife, friend. I have lived in California my entire life and traveled a great deal in the state, country and the world. I love people, public speaking, parties and kitten bellies.

STUNNING AND SUSTAINABLE A Westlake Village landscape gets updated with climate-friendly plants, paver paths and elegant lighting.

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Are you from this area originally? If not, what brought you to Ventura County?

I’m originally a Valley Girl, though I was born in St. Agnes Home for Unwed Mothers in Hartford, Connecticut. I was brought to California by my bio mom and adoptive father when I was nearly 2. I grew up in the west San Fernando Valley when

there were large orange groves everywhere with eucalyptus breaks, aerospace, malls and horrible smog. I loved it. Later, I transitioned to a Los Angeles advertising creative who traveled to Europe and the East Coast regularly.

As a young adult, when I lived in “cooler, hipper” parts of Southern California, I moved up the coast from Sherman Oaks to Woodland Hills, then Westlake Village, then Camarillo and finally Ventura.

What are some of your interests beyond your professional work?

I love birds. I’m consumed with the Big Bear Bald Eagle Live Nest Cam (YouTube) as there is a new eaglet (17 days old!). I love cooking. I spend copious amounts of time reading recipes. I love teaching. Teaching on the college level was a profound joy for nearly 11 years. I adore telling people what to do. I’m in businesses that allow me to do that.

Were you always interested in interior and landscape design?

So, yes I was.

Viktor and I had a wonderful house on a “walk street” in Venice Beach. We had the yard designed by Jay Griffith — a fabulous landscape designer — and from there we began a really serious connection to plants, trees, all manner of growing things. Eventually we were asked to be part of the Garden Walks (benefiting the Venice Free Clinic).

Our “across the sidewalk” neighbor, Bob Bosen — another amazing landscape designer — and I used to eat bowls of cereal together while wishing that the planes would spray our area for Medfly back in the day!

Beauty in my life has always really mattered. In fact, once a friend said I cared too much about how my environment looked. Viktor and I spent our time cultivating great interiors and gorgeous exteriors.

How did you come to take this up as a career?

Viktor and I had “done” ourselves and kept being asked to “do” others. So we put together a real business and began.

My very talented, artistic husband is always being asked for his help in making life beautiful. And remember, I love to tell people what to do! It was so helpful in getting folks to up their design quotient. We have built businesses in photography, film, interior design, landscape design and marketing (the mother-lode of telling folks what to do!). 8

CONVERSATION

RLESS”

JANIE HEWSON is committed to making life beautiful for all of her clients.

Did you train with anyone?

[When] I went . . . into advertising, the ad world was in its heyday.

Lucky me. I studied with the style mavens in all creative industries making life beautiful. I met amazing people and my entire being was transformed from the provincial position it was in to one that saw a global creative.

Finally, I met and married Viktor — a true creative who saw in such a

beautiful way. I remember friends and I used to call it “Budnik”-ing something. I learned to Budnik it. But when I wanted to learn real creative, it was Viktor who taught me.

When Viktor and I opened Inside Outside Style (IOS), I was already actively studying plants, shrubs, trees with several landscape designers and nursery owners.

Continued on page 36

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What kinds of things interested you when you were first starting out in this business?

Color me fearless. I am a natural at color. I love it. I see it. I know how to use it. And I am fearless and therefore a leader in how to really use color to make life beautiful. In IOS I lead the color work we sell and do. Color on walls, in landscapes and everywhere.

Also, there must be a little scientist in me because I loved the work of knowing, choosing and using plants, shrubs, trees in our landscapes. And again, my courage to interpret for a client and my persuasiveness to help the client see how these choices gave them what they wanted, led to strong success.

Tell us a little bit about your creative process.

Every client is an opportunity to make life beautiful. Each one needs help to reach their landscape and interior dreams and desires. I meet the potential client with lots of excitement. Our clients tell us the changes they make with us bring joy and delight to them. They often tell how their neighbors and friends compliment them and love the new looks.

The shape of the spaces gets me excited and I can see ways to make it incredible. I have to slow down to wait for the clients’ participation because that is what gives every project its unique point of view.

I use real paper, pencils, colored inks etc. to do the original designs. These drawings are often included as art to the client at the finish of our project.

When you come into a space (inside or outside), what kinds of things do you see or imagine?

I see it done — a dear friend, Bob Bosen (Bosen Design), once told me he hated to install because the moment he saw the project, it was already finished in his mind. As my business grew, that happened for me, too.

I see the client’s journey — but I also love to move the client along with the project, so I enjoy seeing the client move into great choices and happy outcomes.

How does imagination help you in your work?

I keep the belief that every project can make life beautiful. We as humans need all we can gather to keep up the beauty of being alive and living in this world. I imagine their best look and best way to live.

When did you start your business, Inside Outside Style?

We kept being asked by friends, neighbors and passersby to help with their landscapes and interiors. As we began to do a few, we recognized the business potential.

I can create a business in my sleep. I know the process. I love the organization. So when we decided to do a business in landscape and interiors, I just sat down and put it together.

Our partner, an immensely talented and wonderful graphic designer, is very attuned to how I organize and she can design the crap outta my ideas.

My business ideas are a thousand times more evocative because of her presentation of those ideas.

And, of course, Viktor’s gorgeous photographs and videos push up the visual wealth of the look.

Where do your clients come from? How do they find you?

We have brought this business to life three different times. Each time we access our “friend and contact collection” and fashion an Emailer Campaign that would be interesting to them. We get their permission and send an email once a month or so. That almost always gives us a strong foundation of folks to begin and then we cultivate word-of-mouth through many means.

The first time we launched IOS the advertising market had crashed

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BIG, BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL A large space in need of just about everything was transformed into a gorgeous, comfortable and multi-use environment.

and we had time on our hands. We quickly transitioned from Marketing, Photography and Film to Interiors and Landscape Design.

The second time we re-launched IOS we had moved from LA to Westlake Village and saw a huge potential and need, and so we put it out again.

The third time is now. We have moved again, this time to Ventura, and we see a huge need made even bigger by the drought, fires, floods and increased money in home values.

What are some of the common issues that clients come to you with, and how do you address them?

“I know what I want but do not know how to get it.”

“I know what I want but do not have enough money to get it.”

“I do not know what I want but I’ve got enough money to make it happen.”

“I think I know what I want and what will work but I’m insane.”

We always begin with a questionnaire and follow that with lots of talk and finally a “Creative Desire Review” for more insight. Then because I know how to “hear” a client and love giving the client what they want, I am able to present a proposal that ignites their joy, works within their budget and knows how to under promise and over deliver. Our clients love us and we them.

Sometimes clients don’t know what they want. What are some strategies you use to try to hone in on the best design for them?

Every potential client is special and each project is unique. We begin with a questionnaire and follow that with lots of talk and finally a “Creative Desire Review.”

Tell us a little bit about some of your more memorable projects. What made them special or challenging? How did you solve the questions or problems they presented?

A client in Mammoth wanted a complete redo on their ski-in/ski-out home. We blew their minds with the colors, furniture, lighting of the entire four-bedroom home. That project required a lot of travel!!!!

The project we did for a client in Mandeville Canyon’s Spanish Colonial home and grounds was amazing with commissioned ironwork, colors that echoed the past but felt right in today’s world.

A landscape project in Westlake Village had the clients in trouble with their HOA and award-winning when we were done, giving them an exquisite drought-careful landscape.

In Ventura we worked with our client to give her 10,000-square-foot yard a look that made her friends say it felt like a winery!!! 8

From where do you draw inspiration?

Immediately, from Viktor. A friend once said when joining us for Thanksgiving dinner, “There isn’t one inch of this home that is not art directed beautifully.” He sees and styles and sees more all the time. There are always new things to see in my environment.

Also, I am a voracious consumer of other’s work in person, in pictures and in film. The work at large is always informing the design I see.

How has your approach to design evolved through the years?

Do you feel you emphasize anything different today than you did when you first started out?

We are “designers” first. And that has continued from the start. We love to inspire and engage clients with the possibilities of “getting what they want” or “getting more than they could imagine.” We encourage clients to be brave and show themselves within their choices of great design. Seeing happy clients, getting repeat clients has been incredible.

When looking for a home or landscape designer, what kinds of things should clients consider? What questions to ask? How to know if a designer is right for your project?

Budget: Money is an often hidden objective and you can make life beautiful at many financial levels.

Fit: We work together closely over the project’s completion and must like and respect one another.

POV: Do we “see” well together? It’s not enough to just like one another — we must also respond well to each other’s ideas.

Do you see any trends in interior or landscape design that are emerging? Do you have any thoughts on what might be driving these trends?

Sometimes trends drive me crazy. More succulents, lots of agave and grey gravel!!!! A designer gives a client a “new” look and then a lemming thing happens — in a neighborhood everyone wants a rock river!

I often think about how Steve Jobs did NOT ask anyone what they wanted to do with their music — he, instead, created a way for individuals to carry the music they wanted.

We design to make life beautiful and hope to get humans to follow and look for great design solutions that demonstrate their loves and desires.

When you imagine the future of interior or landscape design, what sorts of things come to mind? Can you predict what might become important or popular in the years to come?

Conscious planting. Our climate will force design and it should. Las Vegas will not feel/look like Miami!!!

On-purpose landscape. What do I want this yard, space, etc. to do?

Flowers matter. Wildlife will be there. Let it feed me.

Becoming an ally of nature. Working with nature to plant what makes sense in the environment. High desert planting is different from wetlands.

Owning your love of beauty. Being courageous and audacious in demonstrating your look with great design to make life beautiful.

What design elements do you find yourself gravitating toward?

Doing this work means that we interpret the owner’s space and desires.

When that is left to us, we honor conservation, native plantings, profuse flowering, birds, bees, butterflies, color courage and gorgeousness.

We have given our clients some of many styles [such as modern, Italianate, Asian, etc.] We love an eclectic look where people congregate and love a strongly styled first glance at entrances.

What about your own home — what kind of space does the owner of Inside Outside Style live in? What do you like about the elements you’ve chosen for your own home and garden?

We moved into a home with a yard that has a romantic point of view — not our first choice but an easy one to which we can add our eclectic ideas.

We try VERY hard to use all our ideas for our clients and not spend copious amounts of time working in our home space. That keeps us “hungry” to design and create for others.

Except Viktor’s amazing tomatoes and the tons of herbs he grows for me to use in cooking.

Our place is lovely and full of Iceberg roses, Silver Sheen hedges and just a little lawn …

Any dream clients or dream projects you hope to one day work with/on?

Our “dream clients” are humans who are kind, honest and match our work effort to give themselves a great outcome. We work hard to find more of these clients. Our “dream clients” want to make life beautiful. We want to be part of that work.

How do you spend your time when you’re not working?

Watching the birds. Studying new plants. Learning about climate change’s effect on growing zones. Going for drives all over Southern Cali.

Reading waaay too much news. Obsessing over where to invest. Wishing I walked more!

What’s one thing about your work that most people don’t know but should?

We are interviewing potential clients at the time they are interviewing us! We know how to bring an outcome that a client will adore. We want the journey to be wonderful, too. We believe this is the most important element to getting a great look.

We are great designers and know our business. We want to work with great clients who give 150% too. Being invested in the outcome ensures its success. v

Inside Outside Style

310.463.2094 310.795.0716 insideoutsidestyle.com

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24 $1,467,100

101 $726,300

104 $921,900

25 $470,700

25 $568,900

NEWBURY PARK

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE MOORPARK

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE

2934 DOVE CANYON, OXNARD Located in the prestigious, guard-gated community of Victoria Estates, this rarely offered Turnberry Estates executivestyle home offers almost 4,100 sq. ft. of luxurious living space & UPGRADES GALORE! Features include professionally landscaped grounds, garden entry courtyard, formal foyer, circular staircase, Tommy Bahama-style living room with fireplace,formal dining room, gourmet granite kitchen with pantry & center island, breakfast nook, sitting area off the kitchen with media niche, family room with raised hearth fireplace & surround-sound pre-wired media center, bonus room with tech center & high-speed wiring, primary bedrooms suite with retreat, four secondary bedrooms, four & one-half bathrooms, upstairs laundry room with sink, and a 3-car split garage. Additionally, you’ll love the remote-controlled, custom-built, swim-spa with auto-cover & waterfall, outdoor fireplace and stainless-steel outdoor kitchen! Over $75,000 in builder upgrades, not to mention the investment made in the pool/spa, hardscape and outdoor kitchen. No Mello Roos fees! Truly a rare offering at $1,575,000.

BETTER CALL BLAKE! BLAKE MASHBURN, 805-368-0202.

IN ESCROW! BUY & SELL WITH ZELL!

OJAI

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE OXNARD

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE PORT HUENEME

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE

2980 DIANA COURT, NEWBURY PARK Welcome to this 4 bedroom and 2 bathroom home. It sits towards the end of a cul-de-sac, in beautiful Newbury Park. This home has some amazing assets waiting for it’s new owner. The house has nearly new flooring throughout, dual pane windows, plantation-style shutters, direct access from the garage to the kitchen, craft room/ workshop off the garage and updated heating and A/C. The lot provides a pool and spa, a right-sized back yard, driveway parking for up to 5 vehicles, and a huge side yard that can accommodate a large RV, ADU or expanding the size of the home. You’ll appreciate how close it is to shopping, restaurants, parks, schools, hiking, and the freeway. It feels like everything you need in life is right around the corner. An amazing opportunity at $759,000.

BUY & SELL WITH ZELL! BRIAN & SAMANTHA ZELL, 805-794-1041.

Your Home Advertised Here!

SANTA PAULA

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE

16 $798,900

25 $760,300

170 $718,700

162 $805,600

85 $947,100

90 $1,182,800

103 $875,100

91 $966,400

826

728

SIMI VALLEY

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE THOUSAND OAKS

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE

CALL NOW! HONESTY • INTEGRITY • COMMITMENT • RESULTS

VENTURA

# HOMES SOLD AVERAGE PRICE TOTAL # OF SALES

Ventana Monthly Home Sales Index is presented each month as part of the real estate section.

The figures are sourced from sales reported to MLS for the period of 03/01-03/31/22.

Ventana Monthly Home Sales Index © Ventana Monthly, 2022.

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CALL TODAY!

805-856-9350

www.BlakeMashburn.com DRE# 01065624

Everest

All info deemed accurate, but not guaranteed. If your property is currently listed for sale, please disregard our active marketing.

805-836-4321

www.BuyandSellwithZell.com DRE# 01995643

SHORT LIST CAR CULTURE

Through May 4 | Ojai Tom Hardcastle explores the automobiles of yesteryear with an exciting palette of color and context. “There are so many elements beyond form and function that are engendered in the automobile: sensibility, style, attitude, and wealth, to name a few. In order to capture the personality and story of each car, I approach these portraits in an organic way instead of solely mechanical.” Hardcastle will show his most recent collection of oils and pastels. Also on display in the Signature Gallery will be work by Gretchen Greenberg. Ojai Art Center, 113 South Montgomery Street, Ojai, 805.646.0117, www. ojaiartcenter.org.

WINTER WHALE WATCHING EXCURSIONS WITH ISLAND PACKERS

Through April 15 | Ventura, Oxnard Island Packers will be offering winter whale watching excursions off the coast in the beautiful Santa Barbara Channel. Gray whales make their annual migration through the waters near Channel Islands National Park, and the boat concessionaire will be offering numerous trips to see them.

Passengers may also see sea birds, sea lions, dolphins and other local wildlife while cruising the channel. Whale watching trips are 3-3.5 hours, suitable for all ages, and a fantastic way to explore the ocean environment in winter and spring.

All ticket sales follow California COVID-19 protocols and procedures. Trips start at $29. 3550 Harbor Boulevard, Oxnard; 1691 Spinnaker Drive, #105B, Ventura; 805.642.1393; islandpackers.com.

EN PLEIN AIR, FIELDNOTES: LYNN HANSON AND A NARRATIVE: JOHN ROBERTSON

Through July 10 | Santa Paula En Plein Air: An Exploration of Malibu and Ventura County features masterful works painted outdoors by members of the California Art Club, a community established in 1909 and dedicated to contemporary-traditional fine art. This exhibit will be on display through May 8. Also on display is an exhibition featuring three decades of work from two artists: Lynn Hanson, whose connection to the natural world informs all of her work, and her partner, John Robertson, a self-taught artist. Robertson will host a painting demonstration at the museum on Thursday, April 28, 2-3:30 p.m.

The museum is open Wednesdays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Santa Paula Art Museum, 117 North 10th Street, Santa Paula, 805.525.5554, www. santapaulaartmuseum.org.

SHANA MABARI: OCEANS

Through May 23 | Ojai In 2020, Los Angeles-based contemporary Light and Space artist Shana Mabari became the first artist-in-residence on a maritime mission led by the non-profit Sea Shepherd Global, the world’s leading direct-action ocean conservation organization. For five days, Mabari sailed their vessel M/Y Bob Barker off the west coast of Africa, a clandestine operation part of Sea Shepherd Global’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in the waters of Benin. It resulted in the arrest of a trawler illegally fishing in protected waters just outside an important ecological reserve. Work inspired by this journey comprises her upcoming solo exhibition “Oceans.”

Porch Gallery, 310 East Matilija Street, Ojai, 805.620.7589, porchgalleryojai.com.

SPRINGTIME ON THE FARM

Through April 24 | Moorpark Come celebrate with us at our Springtime on the Farm in Moorpark! With more than 50 acres to visit and numerous activities, there is plenty of space to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine with family and friends. Among the many

things to enjoy: giant eggs and a big ol’ basket, the Easter Bunny, an Easter Story labyrinth, animal shows, a festive house decorated for spring and more! And of course, the rides, animal center and pick-your-own fields will be available as well. Tons of fun for everyone! 3370 Sunset Valley Road, Moorpark, 805-529-3690, www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com.

SPRINGTIME ON THE FARM

THROUGH APRIL 24

FRIENDLY VALLEY

Through April 24 | Santa Paula In this dark family comedy, Andy, Mark and Ronnie Simonson gather at their parents’ home in the Southern California retirement community of Friendly Valley, while their mother, Ruth, lays dying in the next room. Their father, Jack, just wants to provide his wife with a peaceful, respectful passing. But emotions run high, as Andy has recently left his wife and kids for a torrid new relationship, and Ronnie arrives with his new wife, Carmen, who may or may not be aware of a disturbing episode from her husband’s past.

Over the course of the night of Ruth’s death (Act 1) and the post-funeral gathering (Act 2), wounds are opened, secrets are revealed, and characters are forced to confront realities they have long chosen not to see. $15-$20. 125 South Seventh Street, Santa Paula, 805.525.4645, www.santapaulatheatercenter.org.

SPRING FUN AT THE COLLECTION

SPRING FUN AT THE COLLECTION

THROUGH APRIL 30

Through April 30 | Oxnard The Collection at RiverPark has a month’s worth of activities to get the community into the spring spirit. Through April 16, The Annex Food Hall will be the site of the festive Spring Bunny, who will pose for pictures with kids, families and even pets. Earth Day activities will take place April 22-24. And all month long, visitors can participate in the Spring Scavenger Hunt. Pictures of spring items have been hidden around The Collection; pop by Guest Services to get a map and start hunting – and then enter to win an egg-tastic prize at 546 Collection Boulevard. For additional information, please call Guest Services at 805-342-7363. 2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, thecollectionrp.com.

IN THE HEIGHTS

Through May 8 | Moorpark Lin-Manuel Miranda’s blockbuster Broadway hit (2008) and recent film adaptation (2021) comes to Ventura County theater lovers courtesy of High Street Arts Center. In this exciting and heartfelt musical, set in the largely Dominican American neighborhood of Washington Heights, dreamers dream, families squabble, love finds a way and a community comes together despite upheaval, change and a blackout.

High Street Arts Center, 45 East High Street, Moorpark, 805.529.8700, highstreetartscenter.com.

NNIE GRIFFITHS: PHOTOGRAPHY WITHOUT A BORDERS APRIL 15

U PLURIBUS UNUM: OUT OF MANY, ONE

Through May 28 | Camarillo Many voices. Many faces. Many stories. One community.

One country. One world. One humanity. This exhibition explores our differences and our commonalities. Through Richard Barnett’s large oil paintings of crowds depicting up to 500 people in one work to Daggi Wallace’s small intimate pastel portraits and Kerstin Zilm’s prose and collected voices, the viewer is invited to contemplate their own place among each other and in this world. All three artists embody our differences with their mediums, styles and techniques yet speak to the common ground we all share, our emotions of fear and anger, joy and love, frustration and rage. The audience has a chance to add their own voice here by helping to write a community poem or creating a protest slogan for what matters most to them.

2222 East Ventura Boulevard, Camarillo, 805.383.1368, studiochannelislands.org.

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Change homes, Change Lives W

IN

RO ESC

Turnkey 5 bedroom, 3 bath 2300+ square foot home in one of Ventura’s favorite neighborhoods. Remodeled and updated throughout. City lights and ocean views from upstairs deck.

OLD

TS JUS

3237 Lisbon Lane, Oxnard Sold for $605,000 Gorgeous RiverPark townhome located just minutes from the beach! This fabulous air conditioned home features an open-concept floor plan with spacious living areas, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Kitchen offers granite countertops, stainless appliances, and breakfast bar. Dining area features custom built coffee bar with walnut countertops and stunning views of the Topa Topa mountain range.

145 N. Brookshire Ave, Ventura

W

RO

SC NE

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Beautifully remodeled 4+3 with custom craftsman finishes throughout. Rear addition with master bedroom, ensuite bathroom, and living space. Gorgeous chef’s kitchen with WOLF professional range, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and oversized island.

Coastlands Real Estate Group is proud to give back to our community on behalf of every real estate transaction.

T JUS

D

SOL

6726 Sargent Lane, Ventura Sold for $595,000

Beautiful La Ventana 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo for sale! This desirable single level floorplan boasts 1081 square feet of living area. The semi open concept space features a dining room that flows to a roomy living area with gas fireplace, lots of windows for natural light, and a sliding glass door to the back patio. This centrally located community boasts pristine conditions and well cared for grounds, with HOA managed pools and spas, walking paths, and easy freeway access.

815 Flagstaff Court, Ventura

We are a local real estate group with a passion for giving back to our community. For every home bought or sold through us, we will “give back” a portion of our commission to one of our local partner charities who are helping to change the world!

Eric & Janet Baucom

DRE #01253080 / DRE #02045585

(805) 795-2001 • eric@coastlandsgroup.com • www.coastlandsgroup.com

Help Support The Humanitarian Effort For The People Of Ukraine The war in Ukraine has displaced millions of Ukrainian families who have fled to surrounding countries in order to escape the violence put upon them. Some of you have families, including some of our own, that have been directly affected by this horrible atrocity.

With that said, the COMDEN|RIDGWAY|BAROSSO GROUP will donate $250 for each real estate sale, buyer or seller, to be distributed to the World Central Kitchen. The WCK has been instrumental in feeding countless refugees from many different humanitarian events, including the support of the families that were displaced during the Thomas Fire.

VING OUR ER

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CO

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S

If you are in the market to buy or sell real estate, or are looking for a Free Market Analysis on your home, please give us a call. We hope you will join us in this great cause.

CalDRE# 01060428

805.351.3500

*Some limitations may apply. Purchase or sale must close escrow by December 31, 2022.

Tina Comden 805-218-5926

Bob Ridgway 805-320-1811

Albert Barasso 805-901-3654

HOMES Ideal Homes ideal

NEW LISTING ~ 398 HEIDELBERG AVE, VENTURA

Wonderful two-story Concord home in a quiet neighborhood above the college. Entryway offers hardwood floors that usher you into a welcoming living room complete with brick wood or a gas-burning fireplace. Upgraded kitchen with newer stainless steel appliances and updated cabinets opens to the dining area and breakfast bar. The downstairs has a fabulously remodeled bathroom adjacent to the family room/office/fourth bedroom.

Three bedrooms upstairs include the tasteful master with newer plantation shutters. Recently installed high-end wool carpet in all the bedrooms, stairs and

hallway. Hall bath was recently remodeled. Upstairs offers plenty of cabinets, shelved closets, and storage space, including a large attic. From the dining area and family rooms glass sliders invite you to walk out to the private backyard. This backyard boasts mature orange, lemon, apple, and pineapple guava trees. The gardener in you will also enjoy the raised-bed succulent and vegetable gardens. This corner home has the added comfort of whole-house AC and furnace with Nest WIFI control. Separate from the house is a permitted extra garage/hobby room/ office/potential ADU. This

ideal location is within walking distance of Arroyo Verde Park, Ventura College, and Foothill and El Camino High Schools.

Poinsettia Elementary close by. Close to shopping and a 10-minute drive to the beach.

Contact Dan Tapia (805) 302-7300 DRE#: 00910941

BEDROOMS:

4

BATHROOMS:

3

SQ FT:

2,400

PRICE:

$1,175,000

BUILD YOUR OWN!

Your dream home awaits on this Outstanding Clearpoint lot with ocean and city light views.

Located on coveted Creekmont Ct, and a short walk

to the Harmon Canyon Preserve! Presented by Laurie Rutledge, Coldwell Banker Realty. Visit LaurieRutledge.com today!

805-340-4854

Your Guide To Luxury Living Throughout Ventura County

114 EAST FIESTA GREEN, PORT HUENEME

Welcome to Hueneme Bay! This is an age-restricted community located close to the marinas and beaches of the Channel Islands Harbor area.

Accessed from a garage in the rear or a pathway through lush gardens, this beautiful and updated Cutty Sark model has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a sunroom extending from the family room. Kitchen updates include granite counters, glass tile backsplash, tile flooring and pull-out storage baskets added to many cabi-

nets. The living room and sun room have beautiful wood flooring. New upgraded carpet in all 3 bedrooms installed March 2022! The ceilings are all smooth. The garage and a hobby/laundry room are especially nice for extra storage. A bright patio is perfect for an easy to maintain container garden and soaking in some sunshine! Amenities include a clubhouse with library, billiards, bingo, pool, and spa and there is even a 9-hole golf course. Come en-

joy the cool coastal weather in Port Hueneme. The community is located approximately 2 miles from Hollywood Beach, from the Seabridge Marina, and from the Channel Islands Harbor.

Ariel Palmieri 805-746-2070

BEDROOMS:

3

BATHROOMS:

2

SQ FT:

1,245

PRICE:

$525,000

2934 DOVE CANYON, OXNARD

SQ FT:

11,209 Lot FLAT PAD

PRICE:

529,000

Located in the prestigious, guard-gated community of Victoria Estates, this rarely offered Turnberry Estates executive-style home offers almost 4,100 sq. ft. of luxurious living space & UPGRADES GALORE! Features include professionally landscaped grounds, garden entry courtyard, formal foyer, circular staircase, Tommy Bahama-style living room with fireplace,formal dining room, gourmet granite kitchen with pantry & center island, breakfast nook, sitting area off the

kitchen with media niche, family room with raised hearth fireplace & surroundsound pre-wired media center, bonus room with tech center & high-speed wiring, primary bedrooms suite with retreat, four secondary bedrooms, four & one-half bathrooms, upstairs laundry room with sink, and a 3-car split garage. Additionally, you’ll love the remotecontrolled, custom-built, swim-spa with auto-cover & waterfall, outdoor fireplace and stainless-steel outdoor kitchen! Over $75,000

in builder upgrades, not to mention the investment made in the pool/spa, hardscape and outdoor kitchen. No Mello Roos fees!

Truly a rare offering.

BETTER CALL BLAKE! BLAKE MASHBURN, 805-368-0202.

BEDROOMS:

5

BATHROOMS:

5

SQ FT:

4,062

PRICE:

$1,575,000

SHORT LIST BRAD WILLIAMS

APRIL 22-24

ANNIE GRIFFITHS: PHOTOGRAPHY WITHOUT BORDERS

April 15 | Thousand Oaks One of National Geographic’s most celebrated female photographers shares images and stories from the globetrotting career that has taken her from Bedouin campfires to Argentinian horse whisperers. Annie Griffiths has a habit of uncovering the humorous, the heartwarming, and the universal, even in the strangest of places. See her at the Fred Kavli Theatre on Friday, April 15, at 8 p.m. $41$51. Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 East Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805.449.2787, bapacthousandoaks.com.

BRAD WILLIAMS

TICKET TO RIDE: A LIVE TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES APRIL 23

April 22-24 | Oxnard Pound for pound, Brad Williams is the funniest comedian in the country right now, and has become one of the most in-demand comedians working today. A California native, Williams started doing stand-up comedy as a teenager and has been touring successfully ever since, routinely selling out shows all over the country and the world. Williams has parlayed that success into a multitude of stand-up television experiences, including Live at Gotham, The Tonight Show, Dave Attell’s Comedy Underground and Jimmy Kimmel Live. Most recently, his first one-hour special, Fun Size, was the highest rated on Showtime, and a year later, he followed that up with his second special, Daddy Issues, which was more successful than the first and prompted The New York Times to write “No one is doing it [stand-up comedy] more hilariously than Brad Williams.” Williams will delight audiences with his uproarious comedy during a five-show engagement at Levity Live Comedy Club. $25-$75. 591 Collection Boulevard, Oxnard, 805.457.5550, improv. com/oxnard.

TICKET TO RIDE: A LIVE TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES

BILLY BOB THORNTON AND THE BOXMASTERS APRIL 29

April 23 | Thousand Oaks Back at the Scherr Forum by popular demand! Ticket to Ride is an exciting musical journey through the best of The Beatles, opening with their greatest hits from the 1960s through their groundbreaking work of the Sgt. Pepper era, complete with authentic costume changes.

The internationally acclaimed show has been performed worldwide and been called “one of the most authentic Beatles groups you will ever see.” $38-$48. Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 East Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805.449.2787, bapacthousandoaks.com.

TWILIGHT: LOS ANGELES, 1992

April 27 – May 15 | Ventura One moment can change the course of history. On April 29, 1992, at 3:15 p.m., in an East Ventura courtroom in Simi Valley, the verdict is announced in the Rodney King case. Within hours, South Central L.A. erupts in what has been described alternately as “the riots,” “the uprising,” and “the revolution” – the largest social explosion of the American 20th century.

In the aftermath, playwright, scholar and actor Anna Deavere Smith interviewed hundreds of people to try to understand the complex issues that fueled the flames.

She fused the varied accounts of what happened into an unforgettable theatrical experience that will have you on the edge of your seat. Powerful, illuminating, deeply moving, this lauded Broadway “masterpiece” (Newsweek) goes directly to the heart of issues of race and class and is equal parts meticulously researched reportage and a stirring cry for reform. $30-$50. Rubicon Theatre Company, 1006 East Main Street, Ventura, 805.667.2900, www.rubicontheatre.org.

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FLAVORS OF VENTURA AT THE GARDENS

April 29 | Ventura Join the Ventura Botanical Gardens for a special, members-only event as Ventura Spirits takes attendees on a deep dive into the flavors of spring. Ventura Spirits is a local craft distillery, which highlights the unique flavors of California’s Central Coast. This event will feature classic drinks made local with Ojai Pixie tangerines, sagebrush and bay laurel. Enjoy two of these specialty cocktails, savory snacks by Heirloom Bakery and bring home your very own stainless steel cocktail tumbler. Takes place on Friday, April 29, 5-7 p.m. at the VBG Welcome Center. $35 per person. 567 South Poli Street, Ventura, venturabotanicalgardens.com.

BILLY BOB THORNTON AND THE BOXMASTERS

April 29 | Agoura Hills In addition to being one of our nation’s most acclaimed actors, Bud (Billy Bob) Thornton is also recognized for his musical talents. He has recorded for solo albums: Private Radio, Edge Of The World, Hobo and Beautiful Door. He has also appeared on numerous recordings by other artists, including Warren Zevon’s Grammy winning album The Wind, the legendary Earl Scruggs’ Earl Scruggs And Friends, and Anchored In Love: A Tribute to June Carter Cash. He recently co-wrote the song “The Middle Of Nowhere” with Tony Joe White on his album Rain Crow. Thornton’s partner in The Boxmasters is J.D. Andrew, a Grammy Award-winning recording engineer whose credits include The Rolling Stones, Kanye West, The Pussycat Dolls, Will Kimbrough, Tommy Womack, Guy Clark, and more. Doors open at 6 p.m.; headliner at 8 p.m. $28-$58. The Canyon, 28912 Roadside Drive, Agoura Hills, wheremusicmeetsthesoul. com.

RISING FROM THE ASHES HOME TOUR

April 30 | Ventura The Ventura County Library Foundation is excited to announce that the long-awaited Rising from the Ashes Home Tour is back on. On Saturday, April 30, the strength and resilience of Ventura will be in view during a tour of some of the beautifully rebuilt homes. It will be clear the Thomas Fire of 2017 caused devastation, but not defeat. Tickets are $40, and all proceeds will go to support the work of Ventura County libraries.

These donations will enable VCLF to fund important literacy programs, the Mobile Library, broader access to the Internet and computers to close the digital divide, homework tutoring, STEAM initiatives, and much more. The homes’ distinctive and unique architecture captures the views from these hills while new landscaping embraces fire mitigation measures. This unique opportunity to tour newly rebuilt homes in the Ondulando, Clearpoint, and Skyline areas of Ventura promises to be a delightful afternoon that will showcase resilience, creativity, and beauty of six spectacular Ventura hillside residences. www. vclibraryfoundation.org/events/.

ON THE HORIZON LMVNA GARDEN TOUR 2022

May 1 | Camarillo Now in its 24th year, the tour blends a variety of elements to create a truly delightful afternoon of fun and friendship. In addition to five amazing gardens, the tour features art exhibits and demonstrations, a delightful garden-themed boutique, enticing raffle, live music and delicious refreshments. All proceeds from the event directly support the work of the Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association. $25.

12-4 p.m., www.lmvna.org/gardentour/.

Rutledge Results

From the Eastside to the Westside, And the Hillside to the Seaside

LAURIE RUTLEDGE

DEREK BERTHOLD

CalRE#01156115

CalRE#02038434

805.340.4854

805.869.8005

Laurie4Homes@aol.com

Derek@VenturaRE.com

REALTOR® / B.S. Industrial Design

REALTOR / M.B.A. ®

www.VenturaRE.com

www.LaurieRutledge.com

$

2,100,000

IN

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C

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O W

www.7159Ridgecrest.com | Ventura |

This fabulous Upper Clearpoint in over 2500sf with ocean and city light views can be yours! Featuring a gourmet kitchen with professional appliances, elegant owners’ suite with fireplace, an outdoor kitchen, spa and a rare oversize 3 car garage!

YOUR DREAM HOME AWAITS ON THIS OUTSTANDING CLEARPOINT CUL-DE-SAC LOT.

PROPERTY TAX BREAK With the passage of Proposition 19, qualified homeowners can transfer the current taxable value of their primary residence to a replacement residence anywhere in California...

• Regardless of replacement residence value (with adjustment if “greater” in value).

SO

LD

216Agnus.com ST

THINKING ABOUT RELOCATING? You might be eligible for a

JU

N

EW

LI

ST I

N

G

715 Creekmont Ct.

NESTLED ALONG THE OLD GROWTH CANOPY OF SOUGHT AFTER AGNUS DRIVE

• Within 2 years of the sale.

• Up to 3 times.

In order to qualify, a homeowner must be age 55 or older, severly disabled, or must be a victim of wildfire/natural disasters.

You’ll enjoy a generous flat building pad with opportunities for ocean views from the rear of the lot. Approx. 11,209SF. 715 CREEKMONT CT, VENTURA $ 529,000

This tax break is also extended to Californians inheriting property from a parent/grandparent as long as the property is used as a primary residence.

Call us for details about this opportunity!

Masterfully reconfigured 1950s abode.

3 bedroom, 2 bath home with approx.

1,414 sq.ft.

216 AGNUS DRIVE, VENTURA SOLD FOR $1,152,000

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

Uncompromising standards in service.

High service standards aren’t just a philosophy — they are non-negotiable, define who we are, and how we fulfill our greater purpose.

We understand both the massive financial and intimate personal impact buying and selling a home has on every client. It’s why we live by the highest service standards in our industry, ensuring you get a quality experience that is tailored to your personal needs. It’s why ‘we do more’ for every client no matter what, and why our approach is to always do every possible thing we can.

To learn more visit villagesite.com or reach out to one of our local Ventura agents at 805.969.8900.

LO CA L LY OW N E D | G LO BA L LY C O N N ECT E D | V I L L AG ES I T E .C O M | 8 0 5 . 9 6 9 . 8 9 0 0 | D RE 0 12 0 6 7 3 4 All information provided is deemed reliable, but has not been verified and we do not guarantee it. We recommend that buyers make their own inquiries.

Ariel Palmieri CalDRE #01501968

Karen Stein

CalDRE #01505059

Welcome Home

Juliet Esquibias CalDRE #01831073

Exceptional Real Estate within Ventura, Santa Barbara & Los Angeles counties!

ArielandKaren.com www.ArielandKaren.com

JulietReviews.com www.JulietReviews.com

IN ESCROW

SALE PENDING

Out of Area Gem - Prime Valley Location 6455 Whitman Avenue, Lake Balboa Recently renovated kitchen and oversized living room with wood burning fireplace and wet bar. Access the lush backyard through both the living room and primary suite. Minutes to shopping and dining on Ventura Blvd! 3 bedrooms + 2 baths Approx 1530 SF Listed for $849,000

SOLD

5540 W. 5th Street, Space 134, Oxnard Shores Located in the Oxnard Shores neighborhood, this newer manufactured home has 3 bedrooms and 2 baths and is only a block and a half to the sand. The gorgeous kitchen is open and airy with lovely upgrades. There is a spacious formal dining room, a large living room, and both a sweet shaded porch and a sunny patio. Oxnard Shores MHP has great amenities including a pool, spa and clubhouse. Enjoy beach living with fresh air and coastal breezes. Ask about pet restrictions and space rent. Approx. 1676 SF. Listed for $565,000

SOLD

10537 San Bruno, East Ventura Nearly new and shows like a model. Elevated corner lot in the highly sought after community, The Farm. Upgraded interior with an entertainer’s kitchen open to the spacious great room. Downstairs bedroom and full bath. Primary suite with stunning mountain views features a spa-like bath and walk-in closet. Covered patio in the backyard provides indoor outdoor living at its finest. 4 bedrooms + 3 baths Approx. 2251 SF. Listed for $925,000. Sold for $990,000

SOLD

114 E. Fiesta Green, Port Hueneme 3+2 in age-restricted community. Live on vacation with lush grounds, sparkling pool and an array of activities. Single-story living with easy to maintain patios and large 2-car garage. Sun room, eatin kitchen, spacious dining area and oversized laundry/hobby room round out the features. New paint, new carpet, newer wood floors.

Listed for $525,000

SOLD

2384 Martinique Lane, The Colony - Oxnard Single level beach condo. This highly-desirable gated community offers amenities including pools, spas, tennis, pickleball and racquetball courts, a fitness center and a spacious room for special events. The home itself is gorgeous with an updated bright interior with tastefully renovated kitchen, baths and paint. This home has an oversized west-facing patio for afternoon sun. Approx. 1113 SF. Listed for $789,000. Sold for $800,000

980 Hawthorne Lane, Ventura Delightful, single-story end unit condo! Located in the La Ventana community, the home maximizes its living space with open living and dining areas including high ceilings, gleaming 3-inch maple wood floors, and a cozy brick fireplace. There are two good-sized bedrooms on either side of the unit and one tastefully appointed bathroom. Several upgrades both inside and on the beautiful patio. Attached two-car garage, full-size driveway. Approx. 866 SF. Listed for $525,000. Sold for $555,000

SOLD

SOLD

4906 Marlin Way, Mandalay Shores Dreamy Mandalay Shores beach home with incredible indoor/ outdoor space for living your beach house dream! Extensively upgraded in 2017, this home offers a one bedroom suite downstairs and two bedrooms upstairs. The living space with the kitchen and great room is on the second floor with a deck with gorgeous sunset views. Hot tub, yard with turf, covered patio plus a gated courtyard entry. Approx. 1,695 SF. Listed for $1,500,000. Sold for $1,475,000

IN ESCROW

160 Ojai Road, Oak View Located within the Ojai Valley, this custom-built, gated “artist’s cottage” hideaway is nestled in Oak View 5 miles from Downtown Ojai and only 10 miles from Downtown Ventura, the beach and pier. On almost ¾ of an acre, this unique home is cabin-like and is perched at the top of a driveway allowing for breathtaking views. Incredible light with lots of windows, high wood-beam ceilings and oak trees all around. Multiple decks for entertaining and relaxing. Listed for $899,000. Sold for $1,030,000

70 N. Ann Street, Ventura Seeking a project with incredible potential? Vintage home near Downtown in need of renovation. Built in 1893 on a deep lot, the Victorian home has a traditional floorplan with high ceilings, a grand foyer, an oversized parlor, and a downstairs bedroom. Upstairs, four bedrooms all have walk-in closets, and one bedroom features sweeping ocean views. Bring your imagination and your contractor to restore, or explore possibilities for an ADU. Listed for $899,000. Sold for $856,000

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