Home Care In Thousand Oaks, CA

It’s now official. The Los Angeles Rams’ Ventura County residence will be coming to a close in the coming months.

The NFL team announced the move of their practice facility to Woodland Hills ahead of the 2024 season Tuesday afternoon.

The team is officially ending its seven-season “temporary” association with Cal Lutheran University and the city of Thousand Oaks.

The agreement with CLU, which helped the then-St. Louis Rams return home to Southern California after more than two decades in Missouri, was initially announced as a two-year plan in March 2016.

It was extended on a year-to-year basis through the current NFL season, which means Thousand Oaks was home to the team through runs to the Super Bowl in 2019 and 2022.

Rams head coach Sean McVay elected to stay at CLU to prepare for Super Bowl LVI, which helped the team beat Cincinnati 23-20 and deliver its first NFL championship to Los Angeles since 1951. The Rams' Super Bowl media day was held at CLU's Rolland Stadium.

Neither CLU nor Thousand Oaks were mentioned in the Rams' announcement.

News of the move was first reported in February 2022, when the Los Angeles Times reported that Rams owner Stan Kroenke was in negotiations to buy a former shopping mall.

The Thousand Oaks City Council made finding a permanent home for the Rams in Thousand Oaks its No. 1 priority in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

"We've done everything we can to let the Rams know that they’re welcome here," Thousand Oaks Mayor Bob Engler said last year.

Once the Rams leave the space on CLU's North Campus, the school plans to use it as part of its athletic facilities.

"Once the organization vacates the space, we will use the high-quality practice fields, parking lot and infrastructure they constructed for our future athletic facilities," said CLU spokesperson Karin Grennan told The Star last year. "This has always been the plan, and it remains so today."

Ventura County still has an association with two professional teams. CLU remains the home of Angel City FC of the National Women’s Soccer League. The Dallas Cowboys hold their training camp at River Ridge Fields in Oxnard.

The Rams will build a permanent home at the corner of West Oxnard Street and Canoga Avenue in Woodland Hills, part of their 100-acre “Warner Center 2035” plan.

“This is a monumental day for the Los Angeles Rams as we can now call Woodland Hills and the city of Los Angeles our home,” said Rams chief operating officer Kevin Demoff. “Since bringing the Rams home to Los Angeles, Stan Kroenke’s commitment to this region is unmatched and we are excited to expand our footprint and deepen our impact across the city.”

The permanent facility will not be ready by next football season, which means the Rams plan to build another temporary facility — similar to the modular-based facility it already had at CLU — at its new location 20 miles east while construction is taking place.

The site will eventually be home to the team’s permanent headquarters and practice facility, as well as commercial, retail and residential spaces.

Joe Curley covers high school, collegiate and professional football for The Star. He can be reached at [email protected]. For more coverage, follow @vcsjoecurley on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

First, they tested the water. Then came the conversations about ovens, flours, cheese blends and even takeout boxes. In all, owner Mike Burke says, it took more than three years to bring his family’s beloved Staten Island pizzeria, Denino’s, to the West Coast — a blip in time for the century-old company, but a huge and sudden shift for Southern California pizza fans. It is now possible to get a pie from one of New York’s most treasured and historic pizza joints; you just have to drive to the Los Angeles suburbs to pick it up.

Burke has been leading the way at his family’s New York City-area restaurant Denino’s for more than 20 years, but the celebrated restaurant’s history runs much deeper than that. The Denino’s of today actually started as a candy store on Staten Island back in 1923, before growing to become a pool hall and (after the repeal of Prohibition) bar, then a sit-down tavern with Italian dishes and eventually a pizzeria. For most of that time, the restaurant existed as a singular location, beloved by locals and sought after by New York and New Jersey eaters eager to tick a bite of Denino’s pizza off their list. In 2015, Burke began leading a slow-and-steady franchise approach, adding a location in Manhattan and coastal New Jersey before jumping out to California this year.

The newest Denino’s, about 2,800 miles away from the original, opened in April 2023 in Thousand Oaks, California, just north of Los Angeles. Burke partnered with California franchisee Gregory Leone to open the far-flung outlet, though he had a heavy hand in every aspect of the opening.

“I lived there for three months while we got it going,” Burke says by phone from Staten Island. “I was there open to close until they were ready to go on their own.”

Burke worked closely with Leone — a native New Yorker and longtime Thousand Oaks resident — to secure the necessary products, tweak the kitchen layout, and handle the actual pizza bakes before ever actually selling a pie to a customer. “It’s got to be the right personality, the right work ethic,” Burke says of Leone, who can be found most days at the Denino’s ordering window or running pizzas out to the patio. “We’ve had millions of offers from people with money, but it’s all about the people who can run it. We try to keep [the food] the same as at our place in Staten Island.”

Curious customers can indeed queue up underneath the same Denino’s “IN CRUST WE TRUST” signage to order thin, crispy pizzas in a variety of classic styles, including margherita with marinara and vodka sauce pizzas. There are East Coast-style clam pies and staples like pepperoni, sausage, and mushroom available as well. Entrees from the tavern side of the menu can also be had, including a penne pasta dish that’s served with the same vodka sauce, a baked ziti, and chicken parm or meatball sandwiches. Cannoli works for dessert too, though Leone also owns an Italian ice shop next door to Denino’s for those seeking something slightly more refreshing on one of Thousand Oaks’ many warm days.

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This newest location may not have the easy charm or the ambiance of the historic original — currently the LA-area Denino’s only offers outdoor seating on a shaded patio — but West Coast customers have still found plenty to like. So why Thousand Oaks, with its high-end canyon homes and private communities dotted with celebrities like the nearby Kardashians?

Leone is fond of telling customers at the window that he prefers the slower pace of life here compared to his younger years in New York, and Burke says that there’s little need for Denino’s to compete with the thousands of other restaurants at the urban center of Los Angeles. He views Thousand Oaks as its own kind of Staten Island: a quiet commuter enclave filled with single-family homes and a strong family culture.

“I think Los Angeles is a little saturated,” says Burke, who notes that Leone controls the exclusive franchise rights to all of Southern California. He says if the pair opens up a second location anytime soon, it’ll probably be further up the coast, not closer to the city. Besides, Burke says, people are already willing to make the drive, so why bother fighting the competition and paying higher rents just to be in the city?

“We already get people who drive up from LA all the time.”

State officials have placed roughly 76 square miles in Ventura and Los Angeles counties under a quarantine after two Queensland fruit flies were found in Thousand Oaks.

The insect native to Australia targets scores of fruit and vegetable crops, from strawberries to avocados. The female flies lay eggs that hatch into maggots and tunnel into the flesh of the fruit, officials said. The quarantine is put in place to try to control the spread until the insect can be eradicated from the area.

It was the second quarantine declared locally in a matter of weeks.

Earlier this month, the California Department of Food and Agriculture announced a citrus quarantine in the Santa Paula area. Officials had found two trees infected with a deadly bacterial disease referred to as HLB or citrus greening. The number has since climbed to 22 trees.

A quarantine is rare in the county, said Agricultural Commissioner Korinne Bell.

"Over the course of 17 years, we’ve only had three," Bell said. "Now, we have two new quarantines in the course of one month."

It is an anomaly happening statewide, officials said. A record 600 exotic fruit flies have been detected so far in 2023. An average year has 75.

Agency goes door to door

After years of drought, a rainy winter and spring likely contributed to the increase. The numbers also quickly ticked up as travel and global commerce resumed after dropping during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Queensland fruit fly was first detected in September in a residential neighborhood in Thousand Oaks. When a second fly was discovered in the area, the quarantine was put in place.

The quarantine stretches north to south roughly from the Tierra Rejada Golf Club to the Las Virgenes Reservoir and east to west from Agoura Hills to Wildwood Park.

Officials urge residents in the area not to move any fruits or vegetables from their property. They can be consumed or processed where they are picked. If they are not consumed, officials asked that the fruit or vegetable be double bagged in plastic and put in a garbage bin, not one intended for green waste.

Residents within a smaller boundary — 200 meters of where a fruit fly was found — already may have gotten a visit from the California Department of Food and Agriculture, officials said. In those areas, staff will let people know about the quarantine and schedule a time to treat plants with an organic-approved pesticide called Spinosad, the department said.

Officials seek public's help

Inspectors also will cut open samples of fruit and vegetables to look for any fruit fly larvae. If they find larvae, they will remove and dispose of fruit within 100 meters of the spot.

In the larger quarantine area, residents also may see staff placing traps around their neighborhoods. The traps use a pheromone lure that targets exotic fruit flies, according to the state agency.

For farmers in the quarantine area, the rules require a complex treatment process for fruits and vegetables, according to Bell. Because of the time required, some crops could spoil before they can be sold.

In both quarantines, the initial detection was found in residential areas. Now, officials say they need the public's help to stop the spread. Some residents have refused to let the work happen, and Bell hopes more outreach about the process may help.

"We really need the residents' cooperation," she said. "There's a lot at stake."

More information and an interactive map of the quarantine is available at cdfa.ca.gov/plant/qff/regulation.html. Residents also may call the state's pest hotline at 1-800-491-1899.

Cheri Carlson covers the environment and county government for the Ventura County Star. Reach her at [email protected] or 805-437-0260.

Residents in their 60s, 70s and 80s applauded from their seats, then walked out and let out a cheer after the Thousand Oaks City Council voted 5-0 Tuesday to keep five mobile home parks designated for seniors.

Mayor Kevin McNamee requested the seniors take their celebration outside council chambers, after the applause so he could continue Tuesday night’s meeting.

Before the vote, city staff and City Council members expressed support for the Senior Mobile Home Park Overlay Zone for the five historically senior mobile home parks — Ranch, Vallecito, Ventu Estates, Ventu Park Villa and Thunderbird Oaks.

The owners of four of those five parks already said they would remain designated for seniors even without the special ordinance.

Ranch's owners previously announced plans to open up spaces for all ages, and a representative of the trade association representing mobile home parks called the ordinance unnecessary.

But the park’s residents and other seniors came to Tuesday’s meeting to support the ordinance that would prevent that change.

“It’s a relief,” Ranch resident Sue Ringheim said after the ordinance passed.

“We’ve been a senior park for so many years,” she said, adding that Ranch and its narrow streets can’t handle the extra traffic posed by a younger population.

Population gets older

Before the vote, City Council members agreed that Thousand Oaks’ senior population is growing and that the city can’t afford a decrease in senior communities.

“I don’t like the idea of losing what we already have,” City Councilmember Mikey Taylor said.

Councilmember David Newman said the ordinance is a cost-effective way to help seniors who don’t have an option other than a mobile home park.

“We’ve done work on homelessness,” Newman said. “It is a very hard problem. One of the things we’ve learned is one of the best ways to prevent homelessness is not to let it happen in the first place.”

In fact, about 31% of Thousand Oaks’ households are headed by seniors, Deputy Development Director Fabiola Zelaya Melicher told the council during her report on the mobile home park ordinance.

The ordinance requires that Ranch and the other four parks rent at least 80% of their spaces to one resident who's 55 or older, Assistant City Attorney Patrick Hehir told the council. Roommates can be younger.

Melicher said in her report to the council that the Western Manufacturers Housing Association, a nonprofit trade organization that represents the owners of the Ranch mobile home park, told city staff that there were benefits to having the spaces converted to all ages and for families.

Jarryd Gonzales, who represents the housing association, called the council during the public comment period and spoke against the ordinance.

Gonzales said the zoning ordinance would "not solve our healthy, affordable housing shortage in Thousand Oaks."

“It discriminates against non-seniors who wish to live in mobile home parks,” he said.

Gonzales said that the ordinance would make the affordable housing shortage worse and could hurt low-income residents looking for a home. He said the seniors at Ranch are in no danger of being displaced and called the ordinance unnecessary.

He added that the ordinance would make it more difficult for seniors to sell their mobile homes because they couldn’t sell to non-seniors.

Speaking in favor of the ordinance was Don Weis, a senior and a real estate broker who has sold homes at mobile home parks including Ranch. He said low-income seniors can’t afford a legal fight to keep their mobile home parks designated as senior communities.

“I do not believe people should be forced to live in circumstances not to their liking.”

Speaking in the City Hall foyer after the vote, Ranch residents said they want to continue to live in a quiet community — not one with families with children. They also noted Ranch lacks the recreational areas children need and is otherwise not designed to be something other than a senior community.

Traffic was also on the mind of Sandy Gill, a Ranch resident who said that the park has no sidewalks. She said the park is safer with a senior community designation for its residents, including those who are going on a walk or getting around outside in a wheelchair.

Dave Mason covers East County for the Ventura County Star. He can be reached at [email protected].

Located in the beautiful Ventura County of Southern California, Thousand Oaks is a thriving city known for its stunning natural scenery, excellent schools, and high quality of life. With its proximity to Los Angeles, access to outdoor recreational activities, and a strong sense of community.

In this article, we will explore why Thousand Oaks is considered a good place to live and why it might just be the perfect place for you. So whether you’re looking at Thousand Oak apartments or considering buying a house in the area, keep reading to find out more.

Real estate: a strong housing market

Thousand Oaks has a robust real estate market, making it an attractive destination for homebuyers. The city offers a diverse range of housing options, from single-family homes to townhouses and condos, catering to different lifestyles and budgets. While the median sale price in Thousand Oaks at $1.0M is much higher than the national average, the housing market in Thousand Oaks is known for its stability and has shown consistent appreciation in property values over the years.

Moreover, Thousand Oaks has a strong rental market, making it a viable option for those looking to rent in Thousand Oaks or those considering living in Thousand Oaks.

The average rent for apartments in Thousand Oaks, CA, is between $2,295 and $3,036 The demand for rental properties in the area is driven by the city’s high-quality schools, access to outdoor recreational activities, and its proximity to major job centers in Los Angeles.

Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, Thousand Oaks offers a wide range of housing options to suit different needs and lifestyles. Connect with a local real estate agent to learn more.

Your next home is just a tap away

Thousand Oaks boasts a diverse job market, offering a range of employment opportunities across various industries. The city is home to several major employers, including biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, financial institutions, technology firms, and retail centers. This provides residents with a wide array of career options and opportunities for professional growth.

Thousand Oaks is also located in close proximity to major job centers such as Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley, which are known for their diverse industries and employment opportunities. This allows residents to commute to these areas for work while enjoying the more relaxed and family-friendly lifestyle that Thousand Oaks offers.

Additionally, the city has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, with many small and medium-sized businesses thriving in the area. The Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce actively supports and promotes local businesses, fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Education: a strong foundation for success

One of the key factors that make Thousand Oaks an attractive place to live is its top-rated schools. The city is served by the Conejo Valley Unified School District, which has a reputation for providing excellent educational opportunities. The district boasts a number of National Blue Ribbon Schools and has consistently ranked high in California’s Academic Performance Index. Families can feel confident knowing that they will have access to quality education from kindergarten through high school, setting them up for future success.

Natural Beauty: a paradise for nature lovers

Thousand Oaks is nestled in the Conejo Valley, surrounded by picturesque mountains, lush greenery, and abundant parks. The city’s residents enjoy a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.

With over 15,000 acres of open space, including the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and numerous regional parks, Thousand Oaks offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and protecting its open spaces has earned it the distinction of being one of the safest and most desirable communities in California.

Quality of life: a well-rounded lifestyle

In addition to its excellent schools and stunning natural scenery, Thousand Oaks offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city boasts a well-maintained infrastructure and a strong economy.

Thousand Oaks has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with theaters such as the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza and Conejo Players Theatre, museums like the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, and art galleries that provide entertainment and enrichment for residents of all ages. From live performances to exhibitions, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in the arts and entertainment in Thousand Oaks, making it a culturally rich and dynamic community.

Additionally, Thousand Oaks has a strong sense of community, with numerous volunteer opportunities, community events, and festivals that bring people together and foster a welcoming environment.

Proximity to urban amenities: the best of both worlds

While Thousand Oaks offers a serene and peaceful lifestyle, it is also conveniently located near the bustling city of Los Angeles, which is just a short drive away. This means residents can enjoy the best of both worlds – the tranquility of suburban living in Thousand Oaks, and the urban amenities, entertainment, and job opportunities of Los Angeles.

The city is well-connected with major freeways, making it easy to commute to neighboring cities for work or leisure. This accessibility to a major metropolitan area adds to the appeal of Thousand Oaks as a place to live.

Why Thousand Oaks is a good place to live

Thousand Oaks is indeed a good place to live. With its top-rated schools, breathtaking natural beauty, high quality of life, and proximity to urban amenities, the city offers a well-rounded lifestyle for its residents.

Whether you are a young family looking for excellent schools, an outdoor enthusiast seeking access to recreational activities, or someone who values a strong sense of community, Thousand Oaks has something to offer. Its combination of small-town charm, safety, and convenience make it a desirable place to call home in Southern California.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

Serving homebuyers and sellers in the Los Angeles area, John Underwood is a top real estate agent at Redfin with the latest market insights and local expertise. With years of experience as a real estate agent in the greater Los Angeles area, John Underwood possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the local market.

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