From left to right: Olivas Adobe’s new board members: Member at large, Lila Basta; Member at large, Susan Muhrer; Secretary, Monica Shugart; Treasurer, Lisa Mirisola; VP, Marsha Brumana, President Mary Thompson, and DA Erik Nasarenko.
by Patricia Schallert
The Olivas Adobe in Ventura, California, features a unique installation that reflects the history and cultural significance of the site. The Adobe is a historic home built in the 1800s, and the Board of Directors installation ceremony often includes exhibits and displays related to the local Chumash Native American heritage, the Rancho period of California, and the everyday life of the families who lived there.
On December 4th, Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko, administered the oath of office to the new members of the Board of Directors for the 2025 Olivas Adobe Historical Interpreters. Mary Thompson will once again serve as the President of the Board. DA Nasarenko welcomed all the guests, congratulated the new leadership, and expressed his admiration for those who stepped up to serve. He also conveyed his gratitude for the honor of participating in the swearing-in ceremony.
Everyone is new to their roles, while Mary Thompson brings a wealth of experience. She mentioned, “I served as president for three years during COVID and have been involved with the Adobe for years.” Mary began her journey at the Adobe 18 years ago, starting with pruning roses. She later progressed to decorating the Adobe during the various holidays and has now taken on the role of President of the Adobe Historical Interpreters once again.
Outgoing president Bob Sandler called the meeting to order and introduced Kathryn Dippong-Lawson, who is stepping down from her position as Ventura’s Olivas Adobe Site Supervisor. Kathryn has tirelessly worked to keep the adobe thriving alongside the docent and volunteer programs. Bob noted that she is particularly admired by the docents, especially during the challenging times of COVID. “During that period, when there was almost nothing happening, she focused on keeping the docent program alive, and she did an incredible job.” Kathryn has always been there to support the Adobe, ensuring that the city took care of the site and attending to its needs. After 30 years in this position, serving the community, Bob, on behalf of the Olivas Adobe Board, the docents and volunteers, expressed gratitude, stating, “It has been a privilege to work with her.”
On Sunday, December 11th, the public was invited to step back in time and experience the holiday season as it was celebrated in the late 19th century during a candlelight tour of the City of Ventura’s historic Olivas Adobe. The Olivas Adobe Historical Interpreters, dressed in period costumes, guided guests through the house, which was adorned with various holiday traditions, while also presenting entertaining historical skits. The event was a sell-out success.
