Fortuna Chamber Quarterly Newsletter, Dec. 2020 by North Coast Journal

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID EUREKA, CA PERMIT NO. 76 ECRWSS

WINTER 2020

Q U A RT E R LY N E WS L E T T E R

IN FORTUNA!

Your premier Senior Living choice on the North Coast Assisted Living Independent Living Memory Care

2401 Redwood Way Fortuna, CA 95540

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▶ contents Contents 5

President’s Message

New Member Businesses

Fortuna Business Spotlight

Drive Through Visits with Santa

Santa’s Sleigh Program

Tales from the Fortuna Chamber

Ribbon Cuttings

City of Fortuna Update

Meet Fortuna’s New Librarian, Violet McCrigler

Zero Waste Webinars for Small Businesses

Public Art

Kids-Free Holiday Movie Event

Fall into Fortuna Scavenger Hunt

735 14th Street Fortuna, CA 95540 (707) 725-3959 www.fortunachamber.com

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2020-21 CHAIR OF THE BOARD Kelly Isaacson Umpqua Bank IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Seth McGrath Fortuna Grocery Outlet VICE CHAIR OF THE BOARD Bailey Davy, Cornerstone Realty AMBASSADOR CHAIR Laura Morris, Coast Central Credit Union DIRECTORS Becky Giacomini, Retired Crystal Lewis, Crystal Lewis State Farm Insurance Janell Page, Clean Queen Meal Prep

ON THE COVER Holiday cutouts along Fortuna Boulevard. Photos by Melissa Sanderson

Gary Ogle, AFLAC North Coast/ Gary Ogle Insurance Services Fred Robinson, Edward Jones Melissa Sanderson, North Coast Journal Cathy Whitchurch, PC Whitchurch FINANCIAL ADVISOR Greg Thomsen Wyatt, Whitchurch & Andersen STAFF Renee Lindsay, President & CEO Suzi Dodson, Office Assistant

LANDMARK R E A L

E S T A T E

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PRESIDENT ’S MESSAGE

s we wind down 2020 and look forward to 2021, there is still a lot of uncertainty when it comes to our economy and local businesses. The Fortuna Chamber teamed up with local business districts (FBID), other local chambers, and Humboldt Made to help promote shopping locally. The year-round social media campaign, Choose Humboldt, features a hashtag for each city (e.g., #shopfortuna) that businesses can use when posting online. Shopping local first has never been more critical. As Humboldt moved into the red and then purple tier, many businesses had to substantially reduce their services and staff. These Free window clings available businesses depend on all of for local businesses. us to help them through the restrictions, closures, and other protocols they have all had to adopt since March. This could be a “make or break” shopping season for many small businesses across the country and in our community. Despite the struggles and uncertainty, our commu-

nity continues to shine. Businesses stepped up and helped sponsor the citywide decorating contest, Holiday Dazzle, securing more than $3,000 in cash and prizes for the winners (see the ad on page 6 for more information on how you can enter) and Santa’s Sleigh and Toys for Tots will brighten the lives of local families and seniors thanks to the generosity of our community. 2021 might be an uncertainty but there is no doubting our community spirit. The Chamber is pleased to continue our tradition of recognizing local businesses and individuals who made outstanding contributions to our community this year. You can nominate your favorites on our website (fortunachamber.com/2020awards) until January 15, 2021. Your nominations will help pick the winners, so we encourage everyone in Fortuna to participate. While we may not be able to host a big event this year, we will find a fun way to celebrate our winners. Covid has been an epic test of strength, creativity, and determination for our local businesses and residents. We look forward to the day when we can all gather again as a community and celebrate everything that makes Fortuna special. Happy holidays and cheers to a new year!

NEW MEMBER BUSINESSES

big thank you and welcome to the following new member businesses. We appreciate your support!

Fort una Business Spotlight Garcia’s Florist

“The small store that makes BIG dreams come true.” Silvia Garcia opened Garcia’s Florist in 2006. She and her staff create custom floral arrangements, plants, and related gifts (e.g., plush toys, chocolates, and tiaras). The Pandemic has caused all aspects of the business to be unpredictable as vendors are not as readily available and many have closed. Certain varieties of plants and florals are limited due to vendor availability. Import and export lines have been greatly affected and many vendors fear stepping out of their comfort areas. As a result, Garcia’s has had to learn to go with the flow and adapt to the new circumstances. They appreciate their customers being patient with them through these tough times and are thankful for their business. About Fortuna, Sylvia said, “We are local. We love the people here and wanted to incorporate our family business into our community.” Garcia’s is gearing up for Christmas and will be featuring specials to fit any occasion and everyone’s budget. Garcia’s Florist is located at 1741 Main St. They can be reached by phone at (707) 725-6792, on the web at garciasflorist.com, or on Facebook.

Fortuna Art & Old Things

Fortuna Art and Old Things opened May 1, 1995 by Dorothey Lancaster. Her daughter, Tony Scolari, has run the shop since 2002. Tony was born and raised in Humboldt County and extended family has kept her tethered to the Fortuna community. She stepped in to help when a second location was added in Ferndale. When the 2010 earthquake hit, they decided to consolidate back to Fortuna and that’s where this nostalgic little nook has been ever since. While Dorothey is still the owner, the day to day operations are performed by Toni who says, “Mom

is the brains, I’m the muscle!” The shop specializes in retail collectibles and antiques and is described by Toni as shopping therapy where one can come in and feel connected to their past and reminisce. The pandemic had a definite impact on the business. When asked what she had to change in order to remain in business, Toni says the shop hours and days were reduced, they limited the number of customers, and enacted safety protocols to keep everyone healthy. They invited customers to shop by appointment. “We’re all just trying to figure this thing out, but it costs nothing to be kind,” Toni said. “The biggest challenge has been every day going home and hoping I’ve done the right thing; have I done enough? I just try to take time and reflect and learn from these experiences.” Toni shares that she doesn’t know what the holidays hold but they are busily decorating for Christmas and having fun with it. “Wear a mask and stay encouraged. Be kind to each other. This is a fun business and we want people to keep coming in to share in the fun!” Fortuna Art & Old Things is located at 1026 Main Street. They can be reached by phone at (707) 7253003.

Chapman’s Gem & Mineral Shop

While Chapman’s has been in existence for almost 60 years, the gem shop and museum has been under the proprietorship and management of Lyle and Sharon Brown since 2001. Sharon’s parents, Buz and Charlotte Chapman, opened the business just before the flood of ’64 hit Humboldt County. When they retired, Sharon and Lyle stepped in to take over the reins of the long-standing family rock dynasty. Services range from rock sales to cutting and polishing on site. Chapman’s carries supplies for the gem enthusiast including beads for jewelry making. They provide an inventory of individual jewelry design pieces that feature almost entirely silver settings. Sourcing of gems and rocks is done from various locations, both out of state and out of country. They boast a museum that would Continued on next page

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Fort una Business Spotlight rival most in a larger city with artifacts from many countries and cultures. When the first major shutdown happened, Chapman’s was only closed for about four days. As they were determined to be an essential business (providing goods and services to those with home-based businesses), they were able to resume business on a somewhat limited basis and followed all required protocols. They also took this time to refurbish the shop and museum since hours were reduced. The vault has been reopened and the door repainted with a redwood scene. It now houses many treasures after being closed for five years. Their biggest challenge is finding the time to move forward with the plans to expand the museum, which is outgrowing its current space. All in shop items will be 10% off December 1 – 24. “Come in and pay us a visit. The Museum is open and free of charge!” Chapman’s Gem & Mineral Shop is located at 66 Metropolitan Road, right off Highway 101. They can be reached by phone at (707) 725-2714.

J & G Lawn and Garden

Jake Morss and his wife Gigi, lifelong Humboldt County residents, officially started J & G Lawn Care on April 1, 2006 as a mowing & gardening business. They had both always loved hard work, gardening, and being outdoors. While they were starting their business, they worked two full time and one part time job, nights, and early morning shifts during the day and on the weekends. They put everything J & G made back into the growth of the business, continuing that pace for 18 months, allowing them to end their employment elsewhere and focus on building J & G into what it is today. They now have a staff of 24 craftsman, artisans, nursery/landscape professionals, mechanics, and an amazing office manager. They continue to grow at a pace they can regulate so their original values and way of doing business will not get left behind with rushed, uncontrolled growth. J & G offers all general landscape maintenance and lawn care services to residential, commercial properties, and estates. From weekly care to yearly cleanups, they offer a service to fit any landscape need. In addition, they offer design build out of new 8

landscape construction or renovation of existing spaces, top quality synthetic turf as an alternative to traditional grass, equipment and brush clearing services, and drainage solutions. They are licensed state C-27 contractors and state licensed to apply herbicides and pest and fungus controls in the landscape environment. They can also help with that new outdoor living space you have been dreaming of, from concrete to retaining walls, pavers to flagstone, and water and fire features. They service Southern Humboldt to Trinidad and all surrounding areas. Covid has created product availability issues and shipping delays. They have had difficulty working with vendors and supply businesses who are working remotely, sometimes adding days to complete an order. They feel very fortunate that they can operate 100% with minimal-to-no contact with clients. They can conduct all business outdoors or through voice/text messages. Safety is a priority so their mechanics clean and disinfect all trucks and equipment nightly and are all trained in proper Covid-19 safety protocols. Jake and Gigi are incredibly thankful to the residents and businesses that helped them start and grow in so many ways. They love giving back to the community and encourage all schools, nonprofit organizations, and anyone else needing a donation item, raffle prize, or help with any community event, to please call them. J & G Lawn Care can be reached by phone at (707) 725-2731.

Sport & Cycle

Sport & Cycle has been in business for over 40 years. They offer retail & institutional outside sales of team athletic equipment, retail outdoor sporting goods, footwear, and bicycles. When Todd Dunaway was 19 years old, him and his father, Ken, began envisioning and planning Sport & Cycle. After graduating from Fortuna High and living in Los Angeles, Todd moved back to Fortuna to open the business in 1980 with his parents. With the postponement of most team sports because of Covid, their institutional team athletic sales are down, but they feel fortunate that the pandemic, at least for the retail side of things, has actually caused a boost in sales for outdoor products like bi-

cycles and camping/fishing equipment and exercise gear. With all the gym closures, schools closing early, and good weather, people were looking for outdoor activities. Todd said that bicycle sales are booming and there is a nationwide shortage unlike anything he’s seen in 40 years. Between their two stores, they are selling 70 to 80 bikes a month with no signs of slowing down. In the early days of the shutdown, they could remain open under the “transportation” category. This allowed them to keep their doors open and employees working. Covid has also impacted their ability to get new products into the store but they are aggressively marketing to local retail markets to pull in new customers. Todd’s advice for local businesses is to not be afraid to re-invest in inventory. While there is no guarantee that you will sell the merchandise, you cannot sell what you do not have. Never become complacent because your customers will know it and go elsewhere. Do not wait for business to walk in the door. Go out and get it. It is important to keep adapting to the everchanging business climate. Shopping local is important year-round but especially now. Todd said there is a misconception that local businesses cannot compete pricewise with larger, non-local competitors. In the case of Sport & Cycle, they are one of hundreds of strong, independently owned dealers across the country who group together to negotiate the best possible pricing. Shopping local helps fund our schools, roads, and parks. Todd has no plans on retiring anytime soon. His oldest daughter, Taren, currently manages their Eureka store while her husband, Dan, is the main team athletic salesman. Youngest daughter, Brookie, is the head retail buyer for both stores. Todd hopes to pass the business on for another 40 years! Todd is thankful for the loyal support from the Eel River Valley for the past 40 years. It is not taken for granted and they will keep working to be the best they can be.

Humboldt Auto Styling

Jesus Ramirez opened Humboldt Auto Styling in July 2019. They offer window tinting, paint protection film (PPF), paint correction, ceramic coating, vehicle wrap-

ping, and detailing services for all vehicle types. Jesus, an alumnus of Fortuna High, graduated from Universal Technical Institute with studies specializing in Collision Repair and Refinishing. He recently underwent training at XPEL’s San Antonio, TX headquarters to become one of Humboldt County’s only Certified XPEL Paint Protection Film installers. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive industry, Jesus wanted to bring these services to an area that did not have a lot of exposure. In response to Covid, Humboldt Auto Styling has implemented more sanitizing procedures for staff, including hand washing stations, masks, as well as promoting electronic payments with customers to encourage more contactless interactions. Learning to be creative during tough times is important. Connecting via social media and positive word of mouth helps reach new customers. Even if you aren’t able to financially support a business right now, you can follow them on Facebook and Instagram, liking, commenting on, and sharing posts. Jesus encourages everyone to follow them on Instagram and Facebook (@humboldtautostyling). If you were happy with a recent service, please leave a review on Google or Facebook. Jesus appreciates everyone in our community for their continued support. “You are the ones who make everything possible and have helped and continue to help our small, family-owned business grow.” Humboldt Auto Styling offers gift cards and a 10% discount on services every day for first responders, active duty military, and veterans. Humboldt Auto Styling is located at 3579 Rohnerville Rd, Unit D. They can be reached by phone at (707) 764-6289 and online at humboldtautostyling.com.

Tessa Knight C.M.P.

Tessa Knight C.M.P., is a twenty-year Humboldt County resident who recently moved to their new location at 1100 Main Street. They specialize in Deep Bodywork® and Esalen® Massage, providing a gentle form of deep tissue. What attracted Tessa to Fortuna was its friendly, clean, and respectable environment. Tessa is from a small town and feels comfortable and safe in Continued on next page

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Fort una Business Spotlight our community. Two years ago, Tessa moved the practice from Redway to Sebastopol, selling a property in Shelter Cove in order to invest everything into building a practice down south. When Covid came, Tessa lost almost everything and moved to Oregon to work on a sheep ranch. After two months in Oregon, Tessa was ready to come home and practice again. The months between March and September has been a very humbling break. To be Covid cautious, Tessa follows all the guidelines

required by the county. This involves hand sanitizer, a temperature check, and ventilated air from open windows. Tessa sees fewer clients than most (sessions average 120 minutes) and worries that the Shelter in Place may stifle people from reaching out to get much needed bodywork done. Tessa is available seven days a week by appointment for your convenience. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Clear your schedule and arrive hydrated.â&#x20AC;? Tessa can be reached by phone at (707) 223-1014 and online at tessaknightcmp.com.

DRIVE THROUGH VISIT WITH SANTA

anta & Mrs. Claus are making a special trip to Fortuna. Because they want all children to be healthy for the holidays, Santa and Mrs. Claus are taking extra precautions this year! On Saturday, December 12, Santa & Mrs. Claus will be at Fortuna Umpqua Bank from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Children will be able to interact with Santa & Mrs. Claus through the drive-thru window. This will keep Mr. & Mrs. Claus and all families safe. Children can place their letters to Santa in the drive-thru window tray and say hello through the microphone. Each family will receive a candy cane from Santa.

December 12, 2020 From 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Umpqua Bank Drive-Thru 1360 Main Street Fortuna, CA 95540 As we are expecting a large crowd, please be patient as we try to accommodate as many cars as possible. Volunteers will be in the parking lot to help with traffic. Please remain in your car.

SANTA’S SLEIGH PROGRAM

ortuna Volunteer Fire Department Company 2’s Santa’s Sleigh program began in 1987. It was originally known as a “Teddy Bear Drive” started by Dave Ansley. Santa was transported by fire truck to the homes of children that had special needs that were unable to leave their house Photo Credit: Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department to visit Santa. They were given candy canes and a teddy bear. In 1991, Compato adopt a family, please contact Julie Winburn at ny 2 added senior care homes to their route. Santa 499-4880. and Mrs. Claus, along with their elves, visited all of If you are a family in need or know a senior that Fortuna’s senior care homes where they spent time could use a little extra help during the holiday with the elderly giving each one a stuffed animal, a season, please contact Rhonda Lewis at Fortuna candy cane, and a lot of love. Adventist Community Services (725-1166) and she In 1998, the program was expanded again to help will help you with the application. families in our community who would otherwise not For donations, you can drop off a new, have Christmas. Families nominated for this part of unwrapped toy, children’s clothing, family the program were contacted to learn the individual board games, or nonperishable food to the needs of each child in their household. Each child Fortuna Fire Hall (320 S. Fortuna Blvd) before received gifts including warm clothing and toys. In December 13th. Any amount you can give helps addition to the toys, each family would receive a this community program! blanket, family game, and box of food. In the past, Santa made his deliveries on Christmas Last year the program served 60 low income Eve Day via fire truck and convoy. Because of seniors and 140 families. This year, organizers are exCovid, sponsored families will need to collect their pecting an even bigger need. Typically, canned food toys at the Fire Hall on December 18th or 19th. Low is collected from the schools but since the food income seniors will receive their gift of a blanket drives were canceled because of Covid, donations of and food basket via delivery to their doorstep. Stop nonperishable food is urgently needed. by Redwood Capital Bank with a toy and be sure to Santa’s Sleigh has also added a new option for this collect a $5 gift card to a local business from Bob year. “Adopt a Family” will enable you to shop for a Judevine. family’s specifi c “wish list” items. If you would like Build to edge of the document Margins are just a safe area

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Tales from the Fort una Chamber The Fortuna Chamber has been hosting regular public meetings for over 75 years now, dating back to 1945. Here is a look back at one meeting from 1967.

n January 30, 1967 the Fortuna Chamber of Commerce meeting was called to order by President Ken Newell with 20 members present. President Newell announced that members will have a tour of the new restaurant at the February 6 meeting. Remodeling of the former Hospitality House has been under the direction of member Lee McLeod. President Newell and Larry Francesconi will be representatives at a meeting of North Coast Health Facilities Planning Association on Wednesday, February 8, at Eureka Inn and will report back to the Chamber. Downtown parking was discussed by all members. Several suggestions for alleviating the present problems were made: 1. Greater use of the City parking lot at 11th and N Streets. 2. Individual employers to ask their employees to leave parking meter spaces open for shoppers. 3. The City has offered to make direction signs to the City Parking Lot. 4. A notice to be in the Chamber’s monthly bulletin. 5. Use of stickers on cars parked too long (if this should become necessary). Members were unanimously in favor of keeping parking meter spaces available to shoppers and clients. Dick Rodrigue will attend a special meeting of Humboldt Council Chambers of Commerce on Thursday, February 2, which has been called to start action on the tourist information centers which the Council hoped to have at the North and South entries of the county. French’s adjoining Hartsook’s offered the Council space for the Southern center, while Arcata Redwood volunteered to construct the facility near Orick. The major expense for these

information centers would be paying the people who staff them. Dwight O’Dell suggested that young college men were better fitted to do this kind of work, since they are alone, on duty. The Chamber believed the expenses of the State Fair booth should be kept at a minimum. Before a decision was made, it was decided to see how the booth at the S.F. Boat Show worked out. Jim Wyatt, who constructed the Boat Show booth, offered it to the Council for the State Fair Booth. Rodrigue stated this booth cost less than $1,000, thanks to Wyatt. The booth will be on display at the County Court House for reviewing for those who are unable to get to the Boat Show. Volunteers were still needed for the S.F. Boat Show, Fortuna Day, on February 3, said Newell. A meeting of the Swimming Pool Committee at the Board Room of the High School will be held on Tuesday, January 31 and was announced by Jim Anderson, Chairman of the committee. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned and recorded by Delight A. Barker, Secretary. 13

RIBBON CU T TINGS Lost Coast Wizards – “Where Magic Happens”

Lost Coast Wizards recently expanded their business to Main Street and we were there to celebrate. Originally the location for Rain All Day Owners (l-to-r) James Langdon Lost Coast Wizards, pictured l-to-r: Laura Morris, Dyan Jolly, Pedro Lucero, James Langdon, Bailey Davy, and Becky Giacomini Books, it is now and Pedro Lucero home to the world of gaming. Owners Pedro Lucero and James of the current technology and push quality over Langdon have been in business three and a half quantity, selling products that as Pedro says, “are years with three months in their new location. They already good” and prices are competitive over offer Magic the Gathering tabletop collectible and larger distributors. Customers can join a gaming tradable strategy card game as well as Airsoft BB team and network with other players. They host Guns, remote control airplanes, cars, and boats. Two the Tri-Wizard Cup that includes 3 different gaming major brands featured are LOSI and ARRMA. venues, all virtual. When first looking to open their business, it was This holiday season, enjoy 20% off ALL board important that they be in a place where they were games (while supplies last). Lost Coast Wizards is not competing with other gaming businesses. They located at 1136 Main Street. They can be reached by found the perfect spot in Fortuna in the three suites phone at (707) 617-2523 or online at www.lostcoastthey currently rent from great landlords, Charlie and wizards.net. Cindi Oney. The first month of the shutdown was terrible and they talked of closing the business. The alternative (returning to work in a previous industry) was not an option so they pushed on and hoped for the best. They followed the guidelines, limiting face to face transactions using a window, and used social media to sell products online. Delivery service of all products and discounts on less popular inventory became standard procedure. Government loans, especially SBA loans, helped keep the business afloat. Lost Coast Wizards has branched out and been faced with the challenge of meeting troubleshooting demands, Skin Care Studio, pictured l-to-r: Dianna Rios, Kristin Chambers, Becky specifically parts and repairs of certain glowMoore Giacomini, Ben Moore, Audrey Moore, Kasandra Casselbury, Katy Roe (front), Laura hobby items. They try to stay on top Morris, and Renee Lindsay. 14

glowMoore Skin Care Studio

Audrey Moore, owner of glowMoore Skin Studio, is a Licensed Esthetician, specializing in skincare. Her services include corrective treatments for acne, aging, and sensitive skin. She has helped many achieve the skin of their dreams, wear less makeup, and have more confidence in their fresh skin! She offers facial treatments as well as skin coaching, including athome skincare products. Audrey and her husband, Ben, moved to Fortuna earlier this year. His family lives here and they had been wanting to move for several years. Everything finally fell into place and they were able to relocate. They love the weather, the outdoor activities, and the small-town vibe. Audrey has been in the industry for 16 years. For 13 years she worked for a large spa as an esthetician, massage practitioner, and manager. She went out on her own three years ago and is passionate about what she does. The shutdown caused her business to be closed for seven months. Creating at-home facial kits for her clients (ala DIY quarantine facial), she was able to keep herself in business. Her clients also supported her by purchasing other skincare products, buying gift certificates, and donating to keep her business afloat. Covid has also affected the way she does business in that extra precautions are now taken. She was already very clean and sanitary with her treatments; now even more so! Audrey has a fantastic special now through the end of the year. Purchase an $80 gift certificate and receive an additional $50 value added on! Gift the extra amount to a friend or save it to use for yourself! glowMoore Skin Studio is located at 1008 Main Street. Audrey can be reached by phone at (530) 315-2813 or online at glowMoore.com. Follow her on Instagram at @glowmooreskin for updates, specials, and pictures of her studio!

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(707) 725-9376

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Cit y of Fort una Update Measure G Extends Sales Tax to Continue High Level of Essential Services for Additional Eight Years

Measure G was passed by voters on November 3, which will extend Measure E, a Âž% transaction and use tax until 2033. Measure E funds are used to protect and maintain essential City services including public safety, street repair, parks maintenance and programs and services for seniors. An oversight committee was established to seek public input and make recommendations to the City Council for the use of those funds. Measure E is expected to provide approximately $1.5M and has been used to fund a Detective and Problem Oriented Policing Officer, Community Services Officer, code compliance, Parks & Rec Director, parks programs, flood control projects, paving and storm drain repair, and balancing the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget. The City looks forward to continuing to provide a high level of services to its citizens thanks to the passage of Measure G.

Jameson Fish Passage Improvement and Culvert Replacement Project

The City recently completed the replacement of a culvert on Jameson Creek where it crosses Rohnerville Road. The old culvert was constructed over a long period of time and included cast-in-

place concrete, old, riveted boilers connected together, and portions of failing corrugated metal pipe, and was too steep to allow fish to pass upstream. Ultimately the City would have had to replace the culvert as it was at the end of its useful life. The City applied for and received three grants totaling approximately $3M to design, permit, and build the new culvert. The funding agencies for the project were the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the California Wildlife Conservation Board. Construction was started in June of this year and completed at the beginning of November. The new culvert will provide a long service life and allow all life stages of fish to move through the crossing. The City is extremely appreciative of the patience of the public during construction when the road was closed and looks forward to the habitat and infrastructure improvements achieved by this project. Left and above, the fish passage and culvert improvements.

Council Member Glaser

Council Member-Elect Losey

City Council Transition

The recent election has also brought some changes to the Fortuna City Council. Long-time council member Dean Glaser will be transitioning off of the Council and Mike Losey, a former council member, will be taking his place. Mayor Pro Tem Tami Trent was also re-elected for another term. The City thanks Council Member Glaser for his years of service and dedication to the council and for always having the best interest of the city in mind. The City looks forward to welcoming Council Member-Elect Losey to the City Council.

K-9 Program Update

The City had to retire its last K-9, Nordy, due to medical reasons over a year ago. Police Chief Casey Day has been working steadily to re-start the City’s

Mayor Pro Tem Trent

K-9 Program. Officer Dennis Stevens was selected as the City’s next K-9 handler after a competitive selection process. Officer Stevens currently serves as a Field Training Officer and is a member of the Multi-Agency Swat Team. The new K-9 will be a dual-purpose dog and used for both apprehension and drug detection. We expect to have the new K-9 purchased and to begin training in early 2021. A combination of grant funding and Measure E funds will be used for this valuable program.

Fortuna Bike Park Improvement

The original Bike Park in Newburg Park was formed in 2012 by a local group of volunteers who desired a BMX track in Fortuna with Mayor Sue Long and Wendt Construction donating the materials to construct it. After a few years of good use, the park was no longer being maintained by the group, so it sat idle and unused until the summer of 2019 when Curtis Seely of Wahlund Construction generously offered to utilize heavy equipment to bring the Bike Park back to life. Wahlund’s engineer, Steven Pearl, who is a local pro mountain biker and cycling advocate, created the design for the improvements. Those improvements were completed in the fall of 2019 and the Bike Park was revived! With a renewed interest and increase in activity at the Bike Park, Steven reached out to the City about potentially paving

Retired K-9 Officer Zorro on the left (Retired 2014) and Retired K-9 officer Nordy (Retired 2018) on the right. Photo credit: Shaun Walker — The Times-Standard

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Cit y of Fort una Update

Fortuna Bike Park improvements

the improved dirt track, and expanding the riding options to maximize the existing space for all skill levels. Steven, along with City staff, generated new design plans for a paved pump track, while making adjustments to mitigate rain runoff for year-round use. Curtis and Steven again utilized Wahlund’s heavy equipment, and along with numerous volunteers, secured donated materials to pave the Fortuna Bike Park and convert it into a permanent pump track, which reopened on 10/26/2020. The improved and expanded Bike Park now offers much more riding variation & options, with minimal maintenance required. The Fortuna Bike Park is one of the only paved pump tracks in the state (the first and only in Humboldt County), and will further enhance the recreational experience for all at the Newburg Park Dennis Wendt Sports Complex and help bring people to the Friendly City. The estimated cost of the project was $25,000 in materials, which was all secured by local donations. Thank you to Wahlund Construction, Redwood Coast Mountain Biking Association, the Redding Trail Alliance, Humboldt Redwood Company, Mercer-Fraser, and all of the amazing volunteers who made this improvement happen. Be sure to wear your helmet and we hope you enjoy it!

Fortuna Community Pool Brief

The Rohnner Community Recreation and Park District (RCRPD) and the City of Fortuna are working together to bring a community aquatic facility to Fortuna. A feasibility study was perfomed in 2019 by Counsilman-Hunsaker to gauge community interest and receive input on the public’s desire for specific amenities that would meet the needs of citizens. Based on this public feedback, multiple indoor pool design options with associated construction costs and annual operation and maintenance costs for 18

each design were determined through the study. Luckily, the McLean Foundation has offered the RCRPD a 30-year property lease as a placeholder site for the future pool on the McLean Campus located at 3000 Newburg Road. Because aquatic facilities are costly to maintain & operate, RCRPD and the City had an Annexation and Revenue Generation Analysis performed by LACO Associates in 2020 to ascertain the best revenue sources to support the operation and maintenance of a pool. The RCRPD boundary includes the City of Fortuna (approximately 30 square miles of city & county properties, 14,000 residents, and 5,700 parcels), however less than 1% of property taxes within the boundary go to RCRPD annually, so other potential sources of income were evaluated through this study to determine the ideal revenue scenario that

An example of what the future indoor aquatic facility design might resemble.

would support a pool facility. Recently, a Proposition 68 competitive grant opportunty arose (the Statewide Parks Program), in which both the RCRPD and the City of Fortuna will be seeking separate funding from the State (with the City’s project being the Newburg Park Rehabilitation and Expansion Project). If the RCRPD is awarded the grant funding in 2021, then the construction of the pool would be a stronger possibility, with the need to solidify the ideal revenue sources until the grant’s project completion date of March 2025, if awarded. Regardless of the outcome, the City and RCRPD are dedicated to continuing to research ways to make the mission of a community pool a reality for the benefit of our citizens.

MEET FORT UNA’S NEW LIBRARIAN, VIOLET M C CRIGLER

was born and raised in Fortuna, along with my two brothers. One of my earliest memories is getting my first library card at the Fortuna Library. It is the card I still use today! When I was a teenager, Chris Cooper saw me doing homework in the library and asked if I would like to volunteer. I spent many afternoons as a volunteer during my high school years and learned how much I enjoyed working in the library and serving the community. After high school, I attended Humboldt State University, and worked on campus for many years, most recently at the HSU Library. I’m currently completing a Masters Degree in Library & Information Science from San Jose State University, with a focus on public librarianship and youth services. Q. What interested you about becoming the Fortuna Librarian? A. After many years working at Humboldt State, the branch manager position at the Fortuna Library opened, and I knew it would be a great fit for me. Having grown up in Fortuna, I am passionate about this community and our library. The position also aligned perfectly with my professional interests. I enjoy working with library patrons of all ages, planning events, and connecting people with materials that enhance their lives. I’m also thrilled to be a part of the Humboldt County Library system. There are many exciting things happening at the library, including expanding collections and dynamic programs for all ages. I’m honored to be a part of that work and feel privileged to help lead the Fortuna Branch as we continue to grow. Q. How has Covid affected library operations? A. The biggest change is that our buildings are currently closed to the public. We also quarantine all returned items to help ensure that they are safe for the next borrower. Despite these changes, as a library system, we continue to offer many programs and services. Q. Does the library have any in-person services at this time? A. Currently, we aren’t offering in-person services, but many programs and services are still available. We offer curbside pick up for library materials requested online

or over the phone. You can also browse our window displays and visit our Facebook page to see new arrivals. We also offer grab bags for all ages! You can give us a call and let us know what you are interested in, and we’ll put together a custom selection of titles just for you. As a library system, we offer virtual story times, book groups, and other online events, reference service by phone, e-books, audiobooks, digital magazines, and databases including Mango Languages and HeritageQuest. There’s a lot to explore, even while the doors are closed. Q. Tell me a little about the grant the library just received for new books. A. The Fortuna Library recently received a $40,000 grant from the Rose Perenin Foundation, which is based here in Fortuna. This generous funding supports staffing, programs, and the purchase of new materials. The Humboldt Library Foundation also recently received a $25,000 grant from PG&E to expand e-resources including e-books and audiobooks that patrons can access from home. I am humbled and grateful for the generous support our library receives and look forward to growing our collections and services. Q. What do you have planned for the Fortuna library once it is able to be open? A. I have big plans for when it is safe and permissible to host group events in the library again! Safety is our top priority, so although I can’t give a date that we will be able to resume in-person programs, I am very much looking forward to bringing back favorite events like Family Literacy Night and Lego Club, as well as story times, crafts, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) activities, teen programs, and guest speakers. There are so many wonderful events that happen in Fortuna, and I am excited for the library’s role in supporting that community spirit. Visit humlib.org to take advantage of curbside delivery, open an ebook account, and browse their calendar of virtual events.

Zero Waste Webinars for Small Businesses

ero Waste Humboldt will be presenting a two-part Zero Waste Business Training & Certification webinar series on January 12 and 14, 2021. A team of experts, who are among the Zero Waste thought leaders in the western United States, will be the presenters. ZWH has localized this Zero Waste certification program to be more relevant, more affordable, and more convenient for Humboldt’s small businesses and school districts to achieve Zero Waste standards. Forty-five local businesses have attended Zero Waste Humboldt’s training workshops to-date. Several local businesses have successfully applied the workshop templates for setting goals and tracking their waste reduction progress over time. How will Humboldt businesses benefit from this training and becoming certified? • Receive clear procedures and templates to encourage commitment to integrating Zero Waste in their operations.

• “Bragging Rights” by converting waste reduced into impact on greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. • Assistance from ZWH to achieve cost savings from waste reduction. • ZWH will publicly acknowledge and promote businesses that are successful models for reducing waste. Businesses and school districts that want to receive this training, templates, technical assistance, and certification, are invited to email contact@ zerowastehumboldt.org for more information.

Public Art

n 1997, local artist Helen Rust, with the help of her daughter Heather, were commissioned by Robert and Mary Johnson (owner of the building and Green’s Pharmacy) to create a mural along the side of what was then known as the Star Hotel. After the 2015 fire that decimated the building, and long months of rebuilding, the new building was ready for another mural. Her second mural, called Main Street Memories II, was commissioned by Green’s Pharmacy (and building) owners Robert and Mary Johnson. Helen Rust, pictured third from right in green jacket. The three of them worked together on the content of the mural and the era portrayed. as models and she placed children, dogs, cats, and The mural includes family and friends of the charachorses throughout the mural. Helen has worked as ters portrayed in the mural. Helen’s inspiration came an artist for most of her life. Working a large format from what she envisioned the Star Hotel looking is a technique she learned from billboard art back like in the 1930s on a July day during a parade. She when billboards were hand painted. She has also wanted the soda foundation/pharmacy scene to feel made signs (including the sign outside the Fortuna like it was a part of Main Street. The butterflies in Chamber office) along with oil paintings, which she the flowers, the poster in the window, the banner plans to do more of in the future. Helen and her reading “Fortuna Strong,” and the fire truck all have husband are both graduates of HSU and have lived in significant meaning. Helen used her granddaughters the Fortuna area for over 36 years. 21

KIDS-FREE HOLIDAY MOVIE EVENT

n the past, the Kids Free Movie Holiday Event was a thank you to community members for doing business in town. Due to movie release dates being pushed to 2021 and limited seating due to Covid restrictions, the Fortuna Business Improvement District, in partnership with the City of Fortuna, is sponsoring a gift certificate contest in place of the usual event. Community members will be able to enter for a chance to win one of 45 gift certificates valued at $40 to the Fortuna Movie Theater. Voting boxes will be placed in local businesses and rotated throughout the city. FBID will post the locations of the boxes on social media for community members to swing by and enter to win. FBID will relocate the boxes to new businesses every few days. All 45 winners will be drawn on December 22, 2020. The names of the winners will be posted on the FBID website (fortunabusiness.com) and on their Facebook page (FortunaBID).

FALL INTO FORT UNA SCAVENGER HUNT

n October, we launched a virtual scavenger hunt through an app called GooseChase. Forty-five teams signed up and were tasked with completing missions in order to win points. Some of the missions included visiting local businesses, finding a street sign that matched their personality, attempting parkour in the park, posing in front of the Green’s Pharmacy mural and acting out one of the characters, attending the Farmers’ Market, and much more. It was a fun way for families to get out, explore Fortuna, and support our local businesses. The grand prize was $500 in redeemable gift certificates purchased at 11 local businesses. Our lucky winners, the Bailey family, are pictured in the top left. Be sure to follow our Facebook page or website where we’ll post information on future scavenger hunts. 22

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