Getting To Know
Ventura County Cities
One Neighborhood At a Time

by Kathy O'Keefe

To really get to know someone, you need to spend sometime with them. It's much the same with a town or city and Ventura is no exception to that rule. With a variety of neighborhoods over a several mile radius, getting to know Ventura, "One Neighborhood At A Time" is one good way to go about this. Past the storefronts, past the signs or pictures on the wall, past the front door of each small shop in the city of Ventura and there is a story… unique to that store and to that storeowner. It may come as a surprise to some or unnecessary information to others; however, for those who wish to learn more, these stories are worth the telling.

Just a few short East Main Street blocks (between Santa Cruz and Seaward) there is easy parking and the ocean scent in the breezy air. Through each of the owner's stories runs a common thread - their appreciation of doing business in Ventura plus the value they place on their service and the people who frequent their shops.

Here are just a couple of these stories starting with Dawn Moran who welcomes "children of all ages" at her Jack N Jill's hair salon at 1984 East Main Street. Established 14 years ago, stylist and owner Dawn takes special care with her younger patrons to make their haircut a comfortable experience for them. Her philosophy is simple and reflected in her bright face and the environment she has created.

Understanding that working with kids is different than working with adults. She chats with them and entertains them as she cuts their hair. Dawn feels it is most important to be "compassionate, patient and quick". With ride-on and play toys for the younger set along with foos ball, air hockey and Ms. Pac Man ready to go as well, she works to make it a "family salon" where parents can come and get their own hair cut while the kids play safely right there.

Colorful ocean murals painted by a local Ventura artist add just the right touch to it all and it would be hard to imagine a family not feeling welcomed and valued here.

Across the street at MetalMntn Cycling, owner Trevor Love Dunn is doing what he likes best, "fixing bikes." Upon entering his shop, it definitely inspires your confidence to see him doing just that at his prominent raised workstation - no backroom here. It's obvious right away that this is exactly where he wants to be and you are his most welcome guest.

Offering quality parts, service and repair for road, mountain and fixed gear bikes, Trevor's goal is to have a bike shop with "no attitude". He believes that "cycling is meant for fun" and for that reason, anyone who comes through his doors should be treated nicely. He strives to make his prices fair so people can "be happy with their decision to ride." New bikes can be purchased here as well.

Trevor's self-confidence and enthusiasm for cycling is felt when you come to his shop at 1987 E. Main and getting to know him and his world of bikes is worth the stopping and shopping.

These two Midtown shops, two owners…each unique in what they offer. If this were just a review of the shops it would end here. But these are stories…stories of people and the shops they own and the community they do business in. When you pass through the doors of these shops take another look…ask a few questions…take the time to make it a bit more personal. You'll find it becomes much more than it seems on first glance. Tell them "Kathy O'Keefe" and "Town Biz 101" sent you.