Parade marshal named
By Kelly Feser Eells

Everyone loves a parade, the people of Ojai, especially.
The Ojai Independence Day Parade is a special source of community pride, the announcement of its grand marshal as anticipated as the event itself.
And who is this year's honoree?
Tireless community volunteer Jess Kahle, who, despite his official "retirement" from Thacher School in 1972, worked with students nearly every afternoon, uncompensated, until his 95th birthday last November.
Kahle, a professional horseman, was hired as director of Thacher's Horse Program in 1958. Yet he's known mostly for his kindness, generosity, and compassion.
Ojai resident Patti Michaels met Kahle when she was 12 years old. "Jess is one of the most positive influences and mentors in my life," said Michaels, who notes that, while she did not attend Thacher, Kahle was generous enough "... to teach me the relationship between horse and rider. But his wit and wisdom went beyond the horses," she added. "Jess is as honest as Abe Lincoln, with a sense of humor and wit like Will Rogers. He is an angel sent from heaven."
Thacher Director/Head of School Michael Mulligan echoes Michaels' sentiments. "While everyone who knows Jess knows he is a sage, the truth is, he is also one of the most selfless men we have ever known. He continues to be a volunteer through his church and helps anyone in need. It will honor Ojai and Jess to have him serve as grand marshal."
Alumni from the 1950s to the present credit Kahle with teaching them responsibility, self-discipline, and respect for all life. "Human or animal, Jess touches everyone's life that he walks into," said Christine Maggio.
But perhaps the ultimate compliment was paid by John Huyler, Jr. "I named my daughter, Jesse Huyler, after him."

© 2003 The Ojai Valley News

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