Farewell Ojai

When I moved out of my parents’ home to spread my own wings at the age of 19, I found it difficult to nest in one place for any period of time. These “chapters,” as I call them, afforded me the opportunity to get to know an area and then move on to something new. Often I searched out places that would be beautiful and also force me to experience life outside my levels of comfort. My parents always knew to keep my address and phone numbers in pencil. The only constant address I’ve kept over the years is my e-mail.
Then I arrived in Ojai. Not only have I stayed here beyond a “chapter,” but I also got married in this beautiful valley. Ojai truly is a special place, and those who live and visit here know this. What I find so mesmerizing about this place extends beyond the natural beauty of the magical light that envelops this town during dusk. Ojai’s glue is the people who live here, so many people with so many different talents. I grew up in a small town about an hour north of Seattle and the primary staples of the town were either logging or dairy farming. I experienced difficulties relating with those around me — I longed for distant places that would enrich me. I swore I would never live in another small town, fearful that I would never find like-minded individuals. Until … I met Ojai.
Now, my wife and I find ourselves in a predicament. The cost of living here is beyond our means as young professionals who have worked hard giving back to this community. My wife is a teacher who has devoted her time to Nordhoff and Oak Grove, while also mentoring at the Ojai Valley Youth Foundation. I have worked diligently at the Ojai Valley News helping to bring the news to our community. The issue associated with the cost of living extends beyond this valley; it also plagues all of California. I’m writing this not to be a whiner, but this is a serious issue that should be addressed. One of the reasons the Ojai Unified School District is declining is because young professional couples, like us, cannot stay here to raise a family. The housing market is unreal and absurd. The only starter home we could afford here is in a mobile home park, but that is expensive for what you get. In my mind Ojai is well on its way to becoming the next Vail or Aspen, with the wealthy owning second homes here. These homeowners typically don’t contribute to the community in which they have a second home. I don’t have a solution except to leave and move someplace that I can afford. I know we are not alone.
Ojai has been a wonderful place for us to begin our lives together as husband and wife. There are so many fond memories we will take with us. Farewell, Ojai.