OXNARD : Nao Takasugi Revisits Magic Muffin Bakery

A struggling Oxnard restaurant that trains developmentally disabled adults welcomed back an old friend Friday afternoon as Assemblyman Nao Takasugi (R-Oxnard) toured the Colonia establishment.

“This provides a wonderful opportunity for disabled individuals,” Takasugi said as he walked around the Magic Muffin Bakery & Deli at 580 E. 3rd St.

“There was a time when disabled people weren’t allowed to even leave their homes,” Takasugi added. “This gives them a chance to really improve their lives.”

The modest restaurant, which specializes in muffins and Mexican food, is run by the Assn. for Retarded Citizens of Ventura County. The eatery employs 24 people who suffer from cerebral palsy, epilepsy or mental retardation.

Takasugi also paid a visit to the restaurant four years ago as mayor of Oxnard.

“We talked to him recently and he said he wanted to come back to see how things were going,” said Fred Robinson, the association’s executive director.

The restaurant has struggled, losing more than $314,000 since it opened in 1989.

And though he made no promises to lobby fellow legislators to aid it financially, Takasugi was supportive as he chatted with Magic Muffin employees.

“It is very interesting and keeps you on your toes,” Kim Sickich told Takasugi.

“You know, I used to come in here all the time,” Takasugi said. Asked what his favorite foods were, he said, “The turkey sandwich . . . and at Christmastime, the tamales.”