OJAI : 21 Are Honored as Living Treasures

Steve Grummette has won an Academy Award, built one of the first electronic backgammon boards and designed computer effects for movies such as “Beverly Hills Cop” I and II, “Jumping Jack Flash” and Cindy Crawford’s first movie, “Fair Game.”

And now, he is also one of Ojai’s Living Treasures.

Grummette and 20 other Ojai Valley residents were given that honor Monday, after being nominated by community members. Award winners were chosen for expertise in their chosen field and will serve as mentors for a year in the Ojai Valley.

“I was flattered, pleased and slightly concerned about what they would want me to do.” said Grummette, who brings independent films to the Ojai Playhouse on Sunday afternoons.

The distinction is not purely honorary: Living Treasures must design a program that will benefit the community. Many of the nominees are providing one-on-one instruction to those interested in their fields.

Grummette said he plans to use his connections in the film industry to hold private screenings for nonprofit groups and encourage interest in filmmaking.

Other Living Treasures announced Monday include City Councilman James Loebl, Academy Award nominee composer Roger Kellaway and Dr. Carl Gross. Other award winners include a production assistant, an author and an expert in Japanese culture and care of elderly parents.