Ojai Monthly - March 2026

Dual Enrollment

At Besant Hill, dual enrollment lets students take college courses while in high school — deepening interests, strengthening transcripts, and building confidence. In a supportive environment where teachers know you well, you’ll grow academically and personally. Go further, sooner.

BRET BRADIGAN

THE FAVOR-BASED ECONOMY

"The old world is dying and the new one struggles to be born. Now is the time of monsters.”

— Antonio Gramsci

In a town like Ojai, the real currency isn’t dollars. It’s favors.

It’s the contractor who squeezes in a small job because you once helped his daughter with a school fundraiser. The chef who donates trays for a nonprofit gala because the marketing director tips his staff well.The quiet web of “I’ve got you” and “We’ll figure it out” that hums beneath the formal economy of invoices and permits.

Small towns run on reciprocity. Social capital. Goodwill.

For years, that favor-based economy has sustained Ojai. It’s how events happen on shoestring budgets. How local shops survive slow seasons. How civic projects move forward because enough people decide that helping today means someone will help them tomorrow.

But reciprocity depends on trust. And trust is fragile.

A disruptive few can strain a town’s goodwill quickly. They are known as STP — the Same Ten People, though actual numbers vary widely. They trade in suspicion instead of collaboration. They frame every compromise as corruption and every disagreement as betrayal. Toxic fear spreads faster than gratitude, and once it takes hold, even practical solutions start to look like threats.

We see this clearly in Ojai’s housing crisis.

Teachers, deputies, firefighters, restaurant workers — the people we once called “essential” — largely cannot afford to live here. The irony is sharp. When those who serve the town must commute from Ventura or beyond, the costs ripple outward. Traffic worsens. Emissions rise. Volunteer boards thin out. Small businesses struggle with turnover.

Affordable housing isn’t a niche issue; it’s upstream of almost everything else that plagues a desirable small town. Solve housing and you reduce traffic. Solve housing and you cut pollution. Solve housing and you strengthen civic engagement because people who work here can actually stay, serve, and belong here.

And yet proposals are often met first with fear: fear of density, fear of change, fear of losing Ojai’s character. Some of that concern is sincere. But when suspicion becomes the default posture, progress stalls.

This is where our favor-based economy meets its test.

Reciprocity cannot mean blind agreement. It must mean good-faith engagement — assuming neighbors are acting with honorable intentions even when we differ. A town that defaults to suspicion will paralyze itself. A town that defaults to trust can argue fiercely and still move forward.

Ojai’s character has never been defined by stasis. It has been defined by people who show up for one another. The same network of goodwill that fills gala tables and trail workdays can also support practical housing solutions that protect what we love.

The disruptive few will always exist. The question is which currency the rest of us choose to trade in: fear, or reciprocity.

Our future depends on the latter.

FOUNDING FATHERS & MOTHERS

While Edward Drummond Libbey is rightfully regarded among Ojai’s chief benefactors — having been behind the building of such Ojai landmarks as the Ojai Valley Inn, St. Thomas Aquinas Church (now the Museum), Post Office Tower and the Arcade — others have been very influential in shaping Ojai’s identity. Here’s a few:

Annie Besant. Free-thinker, feminist and noted Theosophist. Though she only spent a few days in Ojai, she brought Krishnamurti to Ojai, and helped buy hundreds of acres of property in Ojai, (now the sites of Besant Hill School and, along with A.P. Warrington, the Krotona Center) which she called “the smiling vale.” She is considered one of the pioneers of introducing Eastern mystical thought to the West, and was an early advocate of India’s independence. and the labor movement.

Jiddhu Krishnamurti. The spiritual teacher and writer, came to Ojai in 1922, sponsored by the Theosophical Society, though he later broke with that group (“The Leaderless Path.”) He gave talks to many thousands of people each year, in the Star Camps in the oak groves west of Ojai (now the site of Oak Grove School. He once held the Guinness Book of World Records for having spoken to the greatest number of people.

Weather in Ojai

Beatrice Wood. The famed ceramicist’s (“The Mama of Dada”) greatest work of art may well have been her life. The irreverent, avant-garde Wood lived and worked in Ojai for decades until her death in 1998 at age 105. She inspired two classic movies, Francois Truffaut’s “Jules et Jim,” and James Cameron’s “Titanic.” She attributed her longevity to “chocolate and young men.” Her autobiography was appropriately titled, “I Shock Myself.” Many of her distinctive, whimsical, luminous luster-glazed pieces are on display at her former home, now the Beatrice Wood Center, in upper Ojai.

Sherman Day Thacher. After coming West to farm and care for an ailing brother, the Yale-educated Thacher realized that he was going to need another source of income. So he founded The Thacher School in 1887. Now one of the most prestigious preparatory academies in the country, its founding creed was “teach a boy to ride, shoot and tell the truth.” Also, in 1896, his brother William founded “The Ojai,” the country’s oldest amateur tennis tournament. Among Thacher’s more illustrious students were industrialist, aviator and film producer Howard Hughes and three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and novelist Thornton Wilder, who wrote his first play while a Thacher student.

OJAI QUICK FACTS:

The name “Ojai” is believed to be derived from the Ventureño Chumash word ‘awhaý, meaning “moon.” In 1837, Fernando Tico received a land grant and established a cattle ranch. Thomas A. Scott, who had financial success with oil and railroads, bought the Ojai Valley in 1864 for oil exploration. By 1868, Scott, through his agent Thomas Bard, began selling properties to homesteaders. By 1874, R.G. Surdam plotted out the town he would call Nordhoff, renamed Ojai in 1917.

Ojai is about 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 30 miles east of Santa Barbara. The valley is about 10 miles long by 3 miles wide, surrounded by hills and mountains; the rare east-west orientation with a slight southward tilt gives the valley an extraordinary sun exposure; Ojai’s citrus and avocado crops are highly prized. This orientation also gives rise to Ojai as a spiritual destination.

It was due to the resources and organizing energy of Ohio glass manufacturer Edward Drummond Libbey that Nordhoff was rebuilt and renamed Ojai, inspired by the City Beautiful Movement. By 1917, with the construction of the Arcade and Post Office Tower, the town took its present shape.

The city’s self-styled nickname is “Shangri-La,” based on the story that Ojai was the backdrop (later left on the editing room floor) from the 1937 movie as the mystical sanctuary of James Hilton’s novel “Lost Horizon.”

Discover tranquil Ojai living at 12752 Sisar Rd. This 2-bed, 1-bath, 1,601 sq. ft. home on a quarter acre offers generous rooms, an open layout, and a yard surrounded by nature. With only five neighbors at the end of a quiet street, enjoy exceptional privacy and quiet. A 10-minute walk leads to a year-round stream, leading to longer hikes to the Topa Topa summit. Thoughtfully updated, the home blends rustic warmth with modern comfort. Improvements include a newer roof with fire sprinklers, upgraded exterior lighting, a security system, refreshed interior and exterior paint, newer kitchen appliances, and remodeled kitchen and bath. Upgrades include flooring, HVAC ducting, and a tankless water heater. The property also includes three new outbuildings —two finished 12’×10’ Tuff Sheds with clerestory windows — ideal for offices, studios, or creative work. Updated landscaping, a private bedroom deck, and custom dual sliding driveway gates enhance privacy and function. Your peaceful Ojai retreat awaits.

DRE# 01859199

Phone: 805.272.5218

DRE# 01761150

Web:

was born out of necessity. Our research showed that even longtime locals were missing out on great events happening right here in Ojai. So we built a better way to stay connected. is your all-in-one calendar for what’s happening in town — from concerts and shows to fundraisers and festivals. You can search by date or category, map venues and directions, and even buy tickets — all in one seamless experience. OJAINOW LIVE

Our motto says it best: You will never miss another event!

Find an event by your interest:

OJAINOW LIVE

MARCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS

OJAI STUDIO ARTISTS MINI-TOUR | MARCH 14 | OJAISTUDIOARTISTS.ORG

MARCH 5-8

Ojai Food + Wine Weekend

Location: Ojai Valley Inn & Country Club 905 Country Club Road

Various times & ticketed events throughout the weekend

Tickets & Info: OjaiFoodandWine.com

This signature culinary festival returns with more than 40 events across four days, featuring award-winning chefs, winemakers, tastings, seminars, and wine dinners. Highlights include opening night receptions, chef demonstrations, book signings, and multi-course paired meals.

MARCH 14

Ojai Studio Artists Spring Tour (Opening Weekend - Arbolada and Meiners Oaks)

Locations: Various studios throughout Ojai

Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Info: OjaiStudioArtists.org

Explore the working studios of some of Ojai’s most celebrated painters, sculptors, ceramicists, and mixed-media artists. This self-guided tour offers direct access to the artists, their creative spaces, and the stories behind the work.

MARCH 15

Town Talk: Roots and Remembrance

Location: Ojai Valley Museum

KELLY’S LOT | MARCH 22 | DEERLODGEOJAI.COM

130 West Ojai Avenue

Time: 4:30 p.m.

Info: OjaiValleyMuseum.org

Curator Brady Hahn in conversation with Dr. Feelie Lee, Brittany Sanders, and Russell A Spinney Ph.D. about family storytelling and heritage with local authors and cultural historians. In conjunction with the exhibit "Women of the Valley: 100 Years of Ojai History."

MARCH 22

Kelly's Lot - Free Concert, All Ages

Location: Deer Lodge

2261 Maricopa Highway

Time: 2 p.m.

Contact: 805-646-4256

DeerLodgeofOjai.com

Recently Ventura based, Kelly’s Lot, has brought their music to folks in Texas, France, Ireland, Croatia and Switzerland and a lot of shows in their home base of Southern California.

— RECURRING EVENTS—

Historical Walking Tours of Ojai

Date: Every Saturday

Time: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Location: Ojai Valley Museum

130 West Ojai Avenue

Contact: 640-1390

OJAI PODCAST | EVERY THURSDAY | OjaiQuarterly.com

Come see why there’s so much historical hullabaloo about this “smiling vale.” The tour, led by long-time locals, takes about an hour, and brings you into a deeper understanding of Ojai’s rich roots and heritage.

MARCH 8

Coffee & Cars

Dates: Second Sundays of the month Times: 8 to 10 a.m.

Location: Westridge Market parking lot

Come check out classic and luxury cars from the area’s proudest collectors. Have a chance to learn from the owners about the history and importance of some of the world’s most incredible automobiles.

THURSDAYS

Ojai Podcast: Talk of the Town

New episodes come out Thursday evenings through the OjaiHub.com newsletter. Guests have included Malcolm McDowell on the 50th anniversary of “A Clockwork Orange,” and Sergio Aragonés on his 60 years as a cartoonist at Mad Magazine. More than 280 episodes and counting. Sign up at OjaiVortex.com for a free weekly newsletter of Ojai events, news, arts, entertainment, history and culture. And podcasts.

BY ILONA SAARI

ROCKET SCIENCE TO SHOW BUSINESS KIM BARNES

Kim Barnes’ improbable journey from NASA and Hooverera Washington to leading Ojai’s performing arts revival

When your dad once rode the elevator to the top of a rocket ship and worked on Minutemen missile silos and your fashion model mom worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigations and rode the elevator daily with J. Edgar Hoover, where does a daughter go from there? Well, to the theater, of course.

Born in Blacksburg, Virginia, Kim Barnes grew up in motion — Virginia to Pennsylvania to Houston and back to Pennsylvania following her father’s work on NASA and Minutemen programs with General Electric. “He was like the “Wonder Years” protagonist Kevin Arnold’s dad who did something vague and opaque — and like Kevin I did visit his office which was as close as I got to understanding anything,” Kim says. “It wasn’t like he

was a butcher or a baker.” Only after Kim was an adult did she learn that he once rode up the elevator to the rocket top.

Her mother’s work was equally improbable: an FBI employee who received, among Kim’s family treasures, a cache of congratulatory letters for her achievements from J. Edgar Hoover, then the controversial Director of the FBI. She was also a model, and walked with the Augusta National Golf float in Eisenhower’s inaugural parade before founding her own modeling agency years later.

As a child in West Chester, PA, Kim loved books — and she was often up in a tree reading one or bicycling with a novel balanced

on the handlebars. And, from a young age, she nursed a desire to be “right and proper.” Once, as a young kid she was visiting a relative’s Long Island home when she descended the stairs wearing white gloves that she had packed for the occasion. Even Emily Post might have balked.

At 16 her parents’ divorce changed everything. Suddenly responsible for younger siblings, she navigated high school largely on her own.

However, when she was older, her Mom insisted she learn to type so she would never have to rely on anyone for money.

At Bishop Shanahan High School, Kim scored roles in “South Pacific” and “The Boyfriend,” but to her, Henderson High School was the “big time.” After transferring, she auditioned numerous times but landed no parts, which taught her the hard realities of pre-casting. It was a “tough learning experience,” she remembers and redirected her creative energy to art and writing, especially poetry.

She sang in the Glee Club, but yearned to be on stage. “I think it was after I went to see a local production of ‘West Side Story’ and was enthralled.” While in grade school, she enrolled at the storied Pennsylvania Hedgerow Theater (known for such theater luminaries as Eugene O’Neill, George Bernard Shaw, Paul Robeson and Keanu Reeves).

Her plans to go to college in Boston dissolved in the wake of the family upheaval, so she haunted Philadelphia museums and, in 1976, spurred on by Joni Mitchell’s “Refuge of the Roads” (her favorite), she headed for new adventures. She drove her VW Bug

across country multiple times, listening to Joni, Jimi Hendrix, James Taylor, among others. “Probably reliving my very young days when dad was always transferred and we regularly packed the family wagon and headed off for a new adventure.”

Back in Pennsylvania, Kim put herself through West Chester State College as an English Lit major, while waitressing at Destarrs, a “quintessential neighborhood good restaurant with lots of regular customers and characters to know and love. A sort of ‘Cheers’ gone Greek.” She also reignited her love for theater in musicals and plays at the Barley Sheaf Players community theater, a historic playhouse in Lionville, Pennsylvania.

New York City beckoned, but practicality intervened. To make a living she found a job as a writer for Chilton Company, a publishing firm in Radnor, PA, writing copy about batteries and steering wheel covers for an automotive trade magazine. While watching the sales staff sweep in from the “outside world” with stories and expense accounts, she was intrigued and taught herself sales — though not before attending a NYC gala to accept a writing award on the company’s dime.

That writing gig also led to a meeting with her first husband during happy hour at a Philly Irish pub. Hubby-to-be checked all the boxes: right school, right car, right background, right job, but after they moved to San Francisco, Mr. Right became Mr. Wrong. Divorced and fed up with the corporate world, Kim ran away to Aix En Provence in France, picked up a young French boyfriend, and “occasionally danced on tables at St. Tropez. It was heaven.”

Two years later, she returned to America where she built a successful career in real estate in San Francisco and eventually met Clay Creasey, “a farm boy from St. Helena in a family of big brains.”

Clay was a National Merit Scholar and earned his Bachelor’s Degree and MBA at Stanford before heading out to conquer the corporate world. Like Kim, Clay loved the theater and moonlighted for a few years as an actor/singer in productions at the Alameda Civic Light Opera and Piedmont Opera Theater.

Match.com put them together and Clay sent her flowers before ever meeting her in person. Soon, however, Clay was offered

the CFO position at Toys R Us in New Jersey. “That killed our nascent relationship for the next decade,” remembers Kim.

Some years later, Clay called to see if she’d attend his Stanford Business School reunion with him. She said yes, “and we have been together ever since.”

After Clay left Toys “R” Us, their bicoastal commuter relationship (New Jersey/San Francisco) blossomed. But, when Clay became CFO of Triple-A in San Francisco, they settled into Kim’s Pacific Heights condo. They also took the time to officially marry in Kim’s mother’s condo in Florida, joined by a few neighbors. “It was really cute. Have a little wedding if you want to make really old people happy.”

Civic life became Kim’s new stage as the founder of Friends of Lafayette Park, a San Francisco non-profit. She cleaned, organized a cadre of neighbors and convinced the city to cough up $10 million to completely turn a needle-strewn blight into a beautiful park. Gavin Newsom and Nancy Pelosi presented her with a commendation.

Seeking “a bigger stage — somewhere he

(Clay) could have a tractor, we stumbled into Ojai on a market day and were smitten.”

By January 2019 they had bought a home and moved to the Valley, with Clay commuting weekly to work at AAA until his retirement. Now retired, they both could devote time to their love of theater and accepted the offer to become the new Co-Chairs of Joan Kemper’s non-profit, Ojai Performing Arts Theater (OPAT), where the 103-year-old Kemper remains as

Kim returned to performing in OPAT’s production of “Into the Woods” and recently Clay shaved his head to play Daddy Warbucks in the Ojai Art Center’s production of “Annie.”

OPAT’s 2026 productions will include an original one-woman show, “The League of Housewiffery,” (based on the writings of Ojaian Sami Zahringer), a June gala with a staged concert musical under the

Strawberry Moon, and in September, a production of Broadway’s feel-good musical, “Come From Away.”

“We love the Ojai vibe,” says Kim. “We wake up every morning with too much to do and we love it that way. It doesn’t get any better than this.” With their rescue dog, Camo, and a valley that finally feels like home, the daughter of a rocket man has found her true Launchpad.

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

ROOM

TO BUILD DREAM HOME

Hidden behind the gates of Rancho Matilija sits a stunning 3-acre lot with magnificent 360 degree mountain views. Surrounded by mature trees and wildlife, this lot offers a beautiful connection to nature while still being conveniently located near all the amenities, recreational parks, hiking trails, Lake Casitas, fishing and all the outdoor adventures you may be looking for as well as easy access to Ventura, LA and Santa Barbara. Don’t miss this opportunity to build your dream home with endless possibilities in this serene and picturesque setting. This gated, private community offers beauty, peace and vision to the person looking for a one-of-akind property.

PROPERTY DETAIL

MOUNTAIN VIEWS

TIMELESS OASIS

Discover a quiet East End compound offering nearly 5,000 square feet across three private homes. Originally crafted by Mr. Shippee for his family, the main house welcomes you with a walled courtyard, covered veranda, sparkling pool, and lush landscaping. Inside, acacia wood floors, an open cook’s kitchen, and a dramatic double-sided fireplace anchor the living spaces. Three bedrooms with French doors open to the gardens. A 1,400-square-foot guest house adds two bedrooms, a bath, a private courtyard, and a two-car garage — ideal for visitors or extended family. The third home features modern concrete floors, a spacious living room, kitchenette, bedroom, bath, and two secluded patios. The landscaped grounds mix drought-tolerant plantings with fruit trees — apple, citrus, fig, pomegranate — and olive trees lining the drive. A fenced paddock and turnout area make the property horse-friendly. Altogether, this rare compound blends versa-

12752 Sisar Road | 2 Bedrooms | 1,601 sf | .25 acre lot | $1,129,999

nature. With only five neighbors at the end of a quiet street, enjoy exceptional privacy and quiet. A 10-minute walk leads to a year-round stream, leading to longer hikes to the Topa Topa summit. Thoughtfully updated, the home blends rustic warmth with modern comfort. Improvements include a newer roof with fire sprinklers, upgraded exterior lighting, a security system,

DRE# 01859199

refreshed interior and exterior paint, newer kitchen appliances, and remodeled kitchen and bath. Upgrades include flooring, HVAC ducting, and a tankless water heater. The property also includes three new outbuildings —two finished 12’×10’ Tuff Sheds with clerestory windows — ideal for offices, studios, or creative work. Updated landscaping, a private bedroom deck, and custom dual sliding driveway gates enhance privacy and function. Your peaceful Ojai retreat awaits.

DRE# 01761150

1 SHELF ROAD 3.5mi

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

2

RIVER PRESERVE 0-7mi

VARIES | Elev. Gain: ≤ 520 ft Wills-Rice Loop is the longest trail.

5

HORN CANYON 5.5mi

STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 1600 ft | Goes to the Pines.

8

ROSE VALLEY 1mi

EASY | Elev. Gain: 100 ft Rose Valley Falls.

3

PRATT TRAIL 8.8mi

STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 3300 ft | Goes to Nordhoff Peak.

6

COZY DELL 2.2mi

MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 740 ft | Cozy Dell Creek & Ridge.

9

SISAR CANYON 22mi

STRENUOUS | Elev. Gain: 4800 ft |Topa Topa Bluffs.

4

GRIDLEY TRAIL 6-12mi

MODERATE | 3 mi to Gridley Springs (Elev. Gain: 1200 ft) 6 mi to Nordhoff Peak.

7

MATILIJA CANYON 12mi

MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 1200ft | North Fork.

10

SULPHUR MTN. 22mi

MODERATE | Elev. Gain: 2300 ft | Sulphur Mountain Road.

A beautifully finished three-bedroom, three-bathroom townhome in the heart of downtown Ojai, offering the perfect blend of comfort, style, and versatility. This thoughtfully designed residence features quality finishes throughout and includes a separate spacious studio and bathroom — ideal for a guest suite, creative space, or private office. Located just steps from Ojai’s charming downtown, El Roblar Hotel, restaurants and cafes, the home offers true walk — to — everything convenience. Three-car garage with more guest parking too. A rare find in the center of town. Special live/work zoning provides unique flexibility for personal use, business, or investment opportunities, make this an exceptional property in an unbeatable location. Don’t miss out, this one-of-a kind property will not last long.

preparing to sell your home?

— By Aimee Jo Davis-Varela —

There’s something about spring in Ojai that makes people think about change.

Maybe it’s the green hills after winter rain. Maybe it’s the way the light lingers a little longer in the evenings. Or maybe it’s just that feeling of fresh possibility that comes when it’s time to start harvesting this year’s Pixies.

Whatever the reason, spring is traditionally one of the busiest times in our local real estate market. Buyers come out in full force this time of year, and if you’re considering selling, a little thoughtful preparation can make a big difference.

Start with what buyers see first: In Ojai, curb appeal isn’t just about tidiness; it’s about lifestyle. People who live here — or want to live here — are not just buying a house; they’re buying a piece of the coveted Ojai Valley way of life.

Take a stroll across the street and look back at your home with fresh eyes. Trim hedges, clear pathways, sweep porches, and pull all of those weeds the recent rain so generously nourished. If the driveway, porch, or exterior looks dingy, a good power wash can work wonders. And if your home’s façade feels a bit lackluster, a few simple pots with sea-

sonal flowers near the entry can instantly make it more welcoming.

Most importantly, make sure the landscaping feels well cared for and manageable. Buyers are moving here to enjoy Ojai — not to spend every weekend catching up on yardwork.

Start your spring cleaning early:

When your real estate agent suggests decluttering and depersonalizing your house, they aren’t trying to strip away your personality. They’re encouraging you to make space for potential buyers to see themselves living there.

Buyers need to imagine making their morning coffee in the kitchen, envision where they will unwind at the end of the day, and dream about creating their own personal retreat in the primary bedroom.

Clear countertops, lighten overcrowded

bookshelves, and remove excess furniture to make rooms feel more spacious and comfortable. Folks will want to look inside closets and garages as well, so try not to use those spaces as temporary hiding spots if you can help it.

As you pack away personal photos, remember this: it’s a practical step toward moving forward anyway. It helps buyers see the space, and it helps you begin the transition. And because we do live in Ojai, it’s worth mentioning that beginning the packing process aligns well with both manifesting and creating the right energy in your home.

Handle the little things:

A dripping faucet, loose cabinet handle, burned-out light bulb, scuffs on baseboards — you may not notice them anymore, but buyers will. These small details can make buyers wonder what other deferred maintenance they might uncover.

Before listing, take a weekend to walk through your home as if you were the inspector. Patch, tighten, touch up. These inexpensive fixes can help your home feel well cared for — and that feeling matters.

Highlight the Ojai lifestyle:

Many buyers come here specifically to enjoy our year-round indoor-outdoor

living. If you have a patio, deck, or garden space, make sure it feels usable. Set out a small café table, refresh cushions, hang string lights, clear pathways. Help buyers see themselves enjoying a quiet morning coffee or an evening gathering under the oaks.

Inside, let the natural light in. Clean windows, open curtains, and allow Ojai’s sunshine to do what it does best.

Keep improvements strategic:

Not every home needs a remodel before going on the market. Smaller updates like fresh paint and new light fixtures can go a long way. If you’re unsure where to invest your time and resources, that’s when local guidance can be especially helpful. Your real estate agent can offer insight into current trends, what buyers are looking for, and where best to focus your efforts.

If spring is calling you toward a new chapter, this is a natural time to begin preparing. A little intention now can make the entire process smoother — and better position your home when the right buyer walks through the door.

Ross Falvo

Keller Williams Realty “The Ojai Real Estate Guy” RossFalvo.com 805-207-5094

Dennis Guernsey LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

805-798-1998

Nora Davis LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

OjaiValleyEstates. com

805-207-6177

Jessica McRae Ojai Valley Real Estate

221 E. Matilija St., Ste J (805) 699-8645 jessica@ojaivalleyrealestate. com

Patty Waltcher LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

Call me for your Real Estate needs. 805-340-3774

Therese A. Hartmann is a local loan consultant affiliated with C2 Financial Corporation, and is a Licensed Broker, California BRE #01048403. NMLS # 298291. Call Therese today at (805) 798-2158.

Donna Sallen Remax Gold Coast Realtors

Donna4Remax@aol.com

DonnaSallen.com 805-798-0516

Logan Hall Logan Hall Photography 805-798-0337 loganhallphotos. com

Vivienne Moody LIV Sotheby’s International Realty 805-798-1099 vmoody10@ sbcglobal.net OjaiLifestyle.net

Amy Hall | Realtor® LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

Amy.Hall@SothebysRealty.com direct+1

805.444.7874

554 E Main Street | Ventura, California 93001 Cal DRE 01957427

Bob Kemper Broker, MBA Kemper Realty of LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

Bob.Kemper@ sothebysrealty.com DRE# 01356802 (805) 551-5121

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

Erik Wilde LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Wilde-Wilde.com 805-830-3254

Team Deckert

Keller Williams Realty

Ray Deckert, Broker Associate ContactUs@ TeamDeckert. com

805-272-5218

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

Anne Williamson LIV Sotheby’s Anneshomesinojai.com

805-320-3314

GIFT GUIDE

Curated with Love from Ojai’s Makers & Merchants

LARK ELLEN FARMS

ORGANIC GRANOLA

Sprouted nuts and seeds in Snack Lovers

Gift Box, $34.99 www.purelysprouted.com

MUD LOTUS

305 E. MATILIJA ST. SUITE G

805- 252-5882

Handmade embroidered silk crepe kimono, under $175

FRIENDS RANCH

15150 MARICOPA HWY • 805-646-2871

Mail order is available online; fruit ships in the New Year. FriendsRanches.com. Local citrus sells at $5+ per 2 pound bag

PURELY SPROUTED SPROUTED SNACKS

212-A E. OJAI AVE • 805-798-0177

The Gift Variety Pack for $47 - Sprouted With Love in Ojai www.larkellenfarm.com

MUD LOTUS

305 E. MATILIJA ST. SUITE G

805- 252-5882

Travel toiletry pouch under $25. Hand-block-printed cotton

SUNDAY’S

307 E. OJAI AVE • 805- 766-1366

Sustainable Gift Boxes. Our approach is to create high-quality, unique gifts that support the community. Thoughtfully curated & free local delivery

REVEL KOMBUCHA

307 E. MATILIJA ST. STE C • 805-272-0028

Bring locally crafted Revel to your holiday gatherings — delicious, festive, and enjoyable for all ages!

MUD LOTUS

305 E. MATILIJA ST. SUITE G 805- 252-5882

Cashmere shawls under $150, made in Nepal with a fair trade designation.

HEY BINGO!

PET FOOD & ACCESSORIES

305 E. OJAI AVE • 805-798-1355

Give your fur babies a little holiday magic! Whether it’s a cuddly plush toy or a delicious treat, stop by and spoil them this holiday season

This Season, Skip the Click. Stroll, Browse & Discover the Spirit of Ojai

Wheeler Hot Springs Bathe in a Natural Wonder of Your Own

This historic property was the genesis of O jai as a wellness resort town. Since the 1800s, travelers visited Wheeler Hot Springs to ‘take the waters,’ believed to have healing qualities. For decades, the property was a busy resort featuring a lodge, spring-fed hot tubs, and a cold spring-fed swimming pool. Visitors also enjoyed massages and other treatments in cabins peppered around the grounds. There are no structures remaining today, but the abundant natural elements that made this property world famous are still flowing f reely. The present owner has planted numerous redwood trees, which, combined with the palm groves, enhance the spectacular views of the mountains and the peaceful energy that surrounds you. So come experience it all, and create your own Nirvana in O jai.

Call today for an appointment. Offered at 2,9 999,000.

AGAVE MARIA

Fresh, wholesome Mexican food & drink 106 South Montgomery Street (805) 646-6353 agavemarias.com

AJ’S EXPRESS CHINESE EXPRESS

Gourmet Chinese food to eat in or to go 11566 North Ventura Avenue (805) 646-1177 ajchinesecuisine.com

BOCCALI’S

Pizza & Pasta, from our farm to our tables

3277 Ojai-Santa Paula Road (805) 646-6116 boccalis.com

BONNIE LU’S COUNTRY CAFE

Traditional American breakfast & brunch 328 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-0207

THE DEER LODGE

An Ojai legend since 1932 2261 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-4256 deerlodgeojai.com

THE DUTCHESS

457 East Matilija Street (805) 640-7987 thedutchessojai.com

FARMER & THE COOK

The best of organic Ojai 339 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-9608 farmerandcook.com

YUME JAPANESE BURGER

254 East Ojai Avenue (Arcade) (805) 646-1700

JIM & ROB’S FRESH GRILL

Mexican-American & regional favorites 214 West Ojai Avenue #100

(805) 640-1301

jimandrobsojai.com

HIP VGN

Vegan sandwiches, salads & bowls

201 North Montgomery Street

hipvegancafe.com (805) 669-6363

HOME KITCHEN OF OJAI

Breakfast and lunch in a warm space 1103 Maricopa Highway (805) 646-5346

HomeKitchenofOjai.com

JOPLIN’S

Classic Barbecue with Sides 715 East Ojai Avenue (805) 798-9053 JoplinsOjai.com

MANDALA

Pan-Asian Cuisine 11400 North Ventura Road (805) 613-3048

THE NEST

401 East Ojai Avenue (805) 798-9035 thenestojai.com

OAK GRILL @ THE INN

Al fresco dining under vine-covered pergola 905 Country Club Road (805) 646-1111 ojairesort.com

OJAI COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY

Salads, sandwiches & superb service 337 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-4478

OJAI PIZZA COMPANY

331 Ojai Avenue (Downtown Ojai) 545-7878

TheOnlyGoodPizza.com

OJAI PIZZA COMPANY (Oak View)

The go-to place for food & sports 820 North Ventura Avenue

OJAI ROTIE

Rotisserie, sourdough, winebox 469 East Ojai Avenue (805) 798-9227 ojairotie.com

PAPA LENNON’S

Family owned, original & traditional

Italian cuisine 515 West El Roblar Drive (805) 640-7388 papalennons.com

RAINBOW BRIDGE

A community gathering place 211 East Matilija Street (805) 646-6623 rainbowbridgeojai.com

THE RANCH HOUSE

An Ojai culinary destination for more than 60 years 102 Besant Road (805) 646-2360 theranchhouse.com

SAKURA OJAI

A locals’ favorite for Japanese food 219 East Matilija Street (805) 646-8777 sakuraojai.wix.com

SEA FRESH

Serving Ojai for 30 years 533 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-7747 seafreshseafood.com

ZAIDEE’S BAR & GRILL

Patio & indoor dining with Ojai’s most tranquil views 1033 East Ojai Avenue (805) 646-5685 soulepark.com

LET’S LOOK AT HOUSING SCENARIOS

SHOULD DIVORCE BE WITH YOU

Maya and Jordan are standing in their kitchen — the same kitchen where they once discussed paint colors and dreamed about their future. Now they’re talking about something way heavier: what happens to the house now that they’re getting divorced.

The mortgage statement is sitting between them. The interest rate their loan officer had gotten them was at a low 2.5 percent and both had been happy to know that for the next 30 years they could count on a low monthly payment. But now, it’s not only about who keeps the dog and furniture, it’s how do they move ahead with the home.

“Okay… so what do we do about the house?” Jordan thinks aloud. Like many, they assume that if one, or the other, would like to keep the house and buy the other out, they can keep the existing loan in place. Unfortunately, that is typically right off the table as soon as lawyers are involved and not recommended.

So, let’s look at some scenarios...

Path 1: Maya keeps the house

Maya says, “I really want to stay here. It feels like home. I think I can refinance.” Jordan nods. He’s not attached to the house in the same way and just wants to move ahead with his life without any kind of burden whatsoever. Maya calls a lender. She’s nervous to find out if she can qualify on her own but it turns out that after the

By Therese A. Hartmann

Therese A. Hartmann has more than 25 years’ lending experience. She is a Licensed Broker, California Dept. of Real Estate #01048403, NMLS # 298291, affiliated with C2 Financial Corporation. For a free consultation, call Therese today at (805) 798-2158.

lender looks at her income, her credit, her debt, she does indeed qualify on her own in spite of interest rates more than doubling.

What’s next in this scenario?

Jordan signs a quitclaim deed. Maya refinances into her own name, pulling cash out to match the equity that Jordan would have gained. Jordan gets his share of the equity. They both walk away clean without any continuing financial ties. There are no “what if you miss a payment” drama and both are left to heal their emotional wounds from having spent many good years together. A possible future friendship remains in the cards.

Path 2: The refinance doesn’t work Now imagine the same conversation, but

the lender relays the disappointing news that Maya cannot qualify on her own. Maya feels that sinking feeling. Jordan doesn’t want to be tied to a mortgage he can’t control. So, they sit down again— this time with a realtor’s card on the table. It’s not what either of them dreamed of, but it’s the most direct and necessary path to uncoupling their lives and finances. They sell the house at a slight profit, split the money, and both get a fresh start reminding themselves that sometimes the cleanest choice is the one with the least drama.

Path 3: They keep the house together for a while

There’s a third version of this story too although certainly not for everyone and typically not one a divorce lawyer would recommend.

Maya asks Jordan if he would stay on the loan and on title until they “figure things out”. Jordan’s initial reaction is hesitation but being a compassionate guy, he wants to help. He’s been warned by family that it might not be the best idea, but they decide to try it anyway. They write a detailed agreement: who pays what, what happens if someone misses a payment, when they’ll sell and for a while, it works. Then, a few months later, Maya’s hours get cut at work. She can’t make the mortgage payment on time. The lender reports the late payment which now appears on BOTH of their credit reports. Maya feels awful and Jordan feels like an idiot for believing

this might work. The house now becomes a source of tension instead of stability and any chance of a friendship for the future fails miserably. In the end, the house goes on the market after narrowly missing going into default.

These are only three scenarios and there are many more, some that work and others that cause people that once loved each other to despise each other. This is the risk of staying financially tied after the relationship ends.

What these stories show

• Divorce ends the marriage, not the mortgage

• Refinancing is the cleanest break

• Selling is the safest fallback

• Joint ownership requires trust, structure, and luck.

Letting go of a home during a divorce hits differently than dividing furniture or signing papers. A house isn’t just walls and a roof – it’s routines, memories, the place where life happened. When a couple wants to stay friends, the way they handle things matters more than folks realize. Be kind and patient but be smart.

DevoFoto Arts

Portraiture as narrative.

Portrait commissions & inquiries: DevoFoto Arts 323 E Matilija Street – Suite 202 Ojai, CA 93023

devocoaching@gmail.com (310) 498-8619

Royal Oaks - 5 Bedrooms, Upscale Finishes Throughout, Media Room, Wine Cellar, Tasting Room, Gym/Massage Room, Pool & Spa, Putting Green, Well, Six-Car Garage, Bocce Court, Views, and So Much More RoyalOaksRanchOjai.com

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

Perched along O jai’s iconic Foothill Road, this glasswalled architectural sanctuary is defined by light, serenity, and expansive 270° views. Built in 2017 and thoughtfully reimagined in 2022, the 3,154 ± sqft single-level home pairs minimalist design with seamless indoor-outdoor living. A 1,117 ± sqft pavilion with showcase parking, wellness studio, and sauna— along with additional creative retreats—completes a private compound set on 1.87 ± acres with pool, spa, and unforgettable Pink Moment sunsets.