Richie grew up in Thousand Oaks and began theory and guitar lessons in 1961 from Mrs. Ferbie Simpson, the first known guitar teacher in the Conejo Valley. He played in rock bands as a kid and eventually became an acoustic songwriter. Richie has been long recognized for his song writing accomplishments. He was acknowledged was for his music and lyrics of “Wondering Where You Are”, which was nominated for the 2010 Americana Single of the Year from the Los Angeles Music Awards.
“Musicians on a Mission California” is the result of Richie’s vision and commitment to our community and the music industry. As a means of giving back by developing young talent, Richie’s legacy and the success of “MOAMCA” depended on his dedication and our persistence in securing resources and support to share the vision of encouraging and fostering the musical awareness and talent of our most precious resource – our youth.
Knowing the wealth of talent in the Conejo Valley, Richie came up with the idea for an organization to develop the talent of young musicians. In February 2011, Richie conferred with fellow musician Bob Cashier, accomplished drummer and percussionist, about his idea to establish Musicians on a Mission. Encouraged by Mr. Cashier’s response, Richie began the process of setting up the non-profit corporation by establishing a Board of Directors comprised of veteran musicians and industry associates.
A resident of Thousand Oaks since 1966, Steve has served with numerous non-profit organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Conejo Valley and region. He attended California Lutheran College, Moorpark College, and California State University Northridge, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Recreation Administration.
Over the years as a vocalist and guitarist he performed, recorded, and toured with a variety of music groups – most notably SeaCloud, EqualEyes, and Rock Bottom Freight.
Board Member since 2013
A native Californian and a Thousand Oaks resident in 1961 and then again from 1969 to the present, Jennifer serves and volunteers with several non-profit organizations. Jennifer enjoys writing limericks and fundraising for worthwhile causes. Jennifer enjoys photography, and still uses a “camera” to capture sunsets, sunrises and life along the 101 Freeway. She recently joined MOAMCA Board because she believes in MOAMCA’s cause and in giving back to the community.
Jennifer believes her experience as a legal assistant and manager of a law firm will balance and work well with these creative and talented musicians.
The Escoto Family has been part of the Thousand Oaks Residential Community since 1959. Ernie has always enjoyed and maintained a deep appreciation for the Local Arts in our Conejo Valley. Returning to Southern California after College at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, he and Wife Leslie re-settled in Thousand Oaks and welcomed their Daughter, Carly into the World. Carly, now a Mother herself, is also an accomplished singer / songwriter.
Ernie and Leslie celebrated their 40th Wedding Anniversary in 2023. Originally recruited by MOAMCA to be their Liaison for Community Showcases, Ernie now also serves as Director of Public Relations for the Group. Active with the local Elks Lodge (BPOE 2477) of Thousand Oaks and Merchandise Director for Conejo Valley Days Event (non-profits), he also owns and operates NESTOprints, where he creates and produces Graphic Apparel for Local Community Events and Educational Institutions. He is pleased to be a volunteer/member of such a wonderful group while helping to fulfill their great Mission.
CJ Chimenti, singer/songwriter, published musician for over 50 years.
Performing in New York, Los Angeles, and Ventura County.
Robert was fortunate enough to record with the band Seacloud at Warner Brothers Studios in Los Angeles. Bob has studied music under various teachers and professionals, including Zoro, drummer for Lenny Kravitz and others.
Bob lives in Thousand Oaks with his wife and two children and is a practicing soil scientist/environmental consultant here in Ventura County. Bob holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Environmental Management, Law and Policy and Soil Science.
