Fortuna Chamber Quarterly Newsletter, Feb. 2020

Spring 2020

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

2

February Savings Event SAVE on Whirlpool products

all month long There will never be a better time to buy!

SALES & SERVICE FOR ALL MAJOR APPLIANCE BRANDS.

1001 Main St., Fortuna • 707 725-6734 EelValleyAppliance.com 3

IN FORTUNA!

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

2401 Redwood Way Fortuna, CA 95540

707-726-0111 LIC#126803744

4

▶ contents 6

A Message from the President

6

Calling All Artists

7

Chamber Mixers

8-9

Chamber Member Business Highlights and New Member Businesses

9

Annual Awards Dinner

10

Become a Big Brother or Big Sister to a Child in Need!

10

Candidate Forum

10

Fortuna Garden Club

11-15

City Update

17

Fortuna Business Improvement District

18

Grave Matters

19

Apple Harvest Festival

19

Trunk or Treat

20-21

Calendar of Events

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2019-20 CHAIR OF THE BOARD Seth McGrath Fortuna Grocery Outlet VICE CHAIR OF THE BOARD Kelly Isaacson Umpqua Bank AMBASSADOR CHAIR Laura Morris Coast Central Credit Union DIRECTORS Bailey Davy, Cornerstone Realty Becky Giacomini, Retired Brian Gonzalez, US Bank Gary Ogle, AFLAC North Coast/ Gary Ogle Insurance Services Bryan Robinson, Hygro LLC Fred Robinson, Edward Jones Cathy Whitchurch, Retired

ON THE COVER Daffodils in spring along Fortuna’s Main Street. Photo by Andra Stringer. ©2020 The Quarterly Newsletter is a publication of the Fortuna Chamber of Commerce. Entire contents are copyrighted. No article may be reprinted without written permission.

FINANCIAL ADVISOR Greg Thomsen Wyatt, Whitchurch & Andersen PRESIDENT & CEO Renee Lindsay

5

A Message from the President

F

Stop Shop Eat COME BROWSE OUR UNIQUE LOCAL SHOPS! Find everything you need all within walking distance in the downtown shopping district, where locally owned businesses offer exceptional customer service!

Courtesy of

Fortuna Downtown Business association fortunadowntown.org

6

downtownfortuna

ortuna has been abuzz with activity these last few months. We had Apple Harvest, Grave Matters & Untimely Departures, the Stocking Stuffer Boutique at the new Gene Lucas Community Center, the Fortuna Garden Club’s Holiday Home Tour & Tea, the Electric Lighted Parade, a free showing of Frozen 2 for kids at the Fortuna Movie Theater, free holiday music at the River Lodge … plus so much more.

Special recognition to the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department’s Santa’s Sleigh program, which wrapped and delivered presents for 139 families and over 370 children, and to River Life Foundation for serving free Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners at the Vets Hall to over 400 people.

The next few months are shaping up to be just as exciting. The Fortuna Chamber Annual Awards Dinner & Auction is coming up on February 27. Every year at our dinner we celebrate and recognize local businesses and community members that make an impact in Fortuna. In March, we have the Fortuna Garden Club’s Annual Daffodil Show and FBID’s Home Based Business Expo. Super Tuesday is March 3. Don’t forget to vote! Come meet the candidates for 2nd District Supervisor at a special Candidate Forum hosted by the Chamber on February 24 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Fortuna Monday Club.

Renee Lindsay, Fortuna Chamber President and CEO

CALLING ALL ARTISTS!

T

he Fortuna Chamber Art & Culture Committee is looking for artist submissions for the Artist Pole project.

The Artist Pole will be displayed at the Chamber office as part of its rotating art installation project. Artists will have until February 17 to submit their design for review by the Committee.

The artist chosen for the project will receive $500.00 for their work. Applications and more information on the project can be found at fortunachamber.com/artcommittee.

Chamber Mixers

C

hamber Mixers are a great opportunity to build your business network by meeting other Chamber members and potential customers, making valuable connections, and learning more about the Fortuna community. These events, hosted exclusively by Chamber members, are always open to the public and a fun way to network and keep informed on local events! Each mixer offers food, beverages, door prizes, a cash drawing, and more. Attendees are welcome to drop in any time during the event. Make sure to look for the “welcome table” to sign up for the door prize giveaway and cash drawing!

SAVE THE DATE for our upcoming Mixers: • March 18 EPT Physical Therapy & Wellness Center 1095 S. Fortuna Blvd.

• April 15 C. Crane Company 172 Main St. No mixer in February.

ABOVE LEFT, LEFT TO RIGHT: Erica Thompson (Plumb Construction), Laura Morris (Coast Central Credit Union), and Jeanne Dorris (Jeanne Dorris Catering) at the December Chamber Mixer hosted by Redwood Capital Bank, Fortuna Grocery Outlet, Humboldt Land Title, and Demello, McAuley, McReynolds & Holland LLP. Catering was provided by Moonlight Catering.

Photo by Renee Lindsay LEFT: Humboldt Equity (654 Main St.) hosted our first Mixer of 2020 on January 15. Matt Allen and his team of realtors put on a great mixer complete with a raffle, door prizes, and delicious food provided by Nourish Bistro. Renee Lindsay (left, Fortuna Chamber) holds the business card raffle bucket while Bob Judevine (Redwood Capital Bank) picks the next winner.

Photo by Dianna Rios

W Y A T T, W H I T C H U R C H & A N D E R S O N , I N C .

BOOKKEEPING & TAX SERVICE ENROLLED TO PRACTICE BEFORE THE IRS GARY L. WYATT, E.A. PATRICK E. WHITCHURCH, E.A. CAROLYN M. ANDERSON, CPA 804 12TH STREET • BOX 864 • FORTUNA CA 95540 TEL. (707) 725-5109 • FAX (707) 725-2212

1136 Main Street Suite 102

Magic: The Gathering Warhammer 40k HeroClix Dungeons & Dragons

Fortuna Ca 95540

lostcoastwizards.net Hours: Wed.- Mon. Noon to 10pm Located in the alley behind Rain All Day Books.

7

Chamber Member Business Highlights

Fortuna Fabrics and Crafts

Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel

Fortuna Fabrics and Crafts is now officially open in a new location on Main Street. Owner Kathy Comerer gave guests a tour of her new space in December after her ribbon cutting. Besides the ubiquitous supply of fabrics, ribbons, buttons, and sewing tools, Fortuna Fabrics offers alterations, pressing stations, a quilt design wall, hand-powered sewing machines for blackout days, a reference library, and an area for future classes. Fortuna Fabrics is located at 1006 Main St. Tel: (707) 725-2501.

Sunrise Mini Storage

Photo Credit: Renee Lindsay

Congratulations to Brad McHenry and Tina Conti, new owners of Sunrise Mini Storage located at 1799 Smith Lane. Brad and Tina gave the place a major facelift with new siding, replacing swinging doors with metal roll-up doors, improved lighting, and new exterior paint and signage. Several local businesses assisted in the remodel, including Forbusco Lumber, Fortuna Signs, Rust & Co. Painting, and Mark Vellis Construction. Sunrise Mini Storage will be managed by Six Rivers Property Management. You can reach them by calling (707) 725-1094.

8

new member businesses As of January 2019

Nest & Antique Depot Simmons Skincare

Cady Gambrell Photography

Erica Thompson

Northern California Community Blood Bank

Fort una Chamber Annual Awards Dinner

T

he Annual Fortuna Chamber Awards Dinner & Auction is right around the corner. This year’s theme is “20/20 A Clear Vision for Business.” Join us on February 27, for an evening of fun celebrating our community and honoring the talented people and businesses that make Fortuna special. We’ll have a live band during cocktail hour, Dutch and Live auctions with guest auctioneer Ben McWhorter, appetizers and dinner provided by Jeanne Dorris Catering, a Table Top Decorating Contest, a photo booth, and more. Watch as we present ten awards, nominated by the community, to local businesses and community members.

Tickets are $75.00 each and can be purchased online at fortunachamber.com/ annualdinner or by calling the Chamber office at (707) 725-3959.

9

Become a Big Brother or Big Sister to a child in need!

B

ig Brothers Big Sisters of the North Coast was founded in 1969 as a nonprofit organization with the purpose of forming meaningful relationships between caring, responsible adults and disadvantaged children through one-toone matches. Today, BBBS is the premier mentoring organization in the North Coast region. Studies have shown that children who have the support and friendship of an adult role model are more likely to stay in school, have better relationships with adults and peers, and have higher self-esteem. Your role as a “Big” is to devote two hours a week to build a positive relationship with a child over a one-year commitment. There is an urgent need for adult male mentors in Fortuna. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Erika Garcia Lopez, Enrollment Match Support Specialist, at 445-4871 or egarcialopez@ncbbbs.org. The 37th Annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake will take place on March 6 and 7 at Harbor Lanes in Eureka. Join more than 150 teams from local businesses, schools, churches, and service clubs

10

who collect donations from friends, co-workers, and neighbors to help raise funds needed to provide mentoring services to Humboldt County youth in need. Visit ncbbbs.org for more information on how to participate.

Fort una Garden Club

D

id you know that the Fortuna Garden Club is 96 years old?!

Back in 1924, eight charter members of the Club set out with a mission – to BEAUTIFY Fortuna – charging 50 cents for an annual membership. Through the years, the Garden Club has sponsored parade floats, hosted tea parties, assisted Photo courtesy of the Fortuna Garden Club victims of the 1964 flood, put in landscaping at the River Lodge, City Hall, and the Fortuna Chamber, held garden contests, and organized Junior and High School gardening programs. Today, they maintain the flower beds in Downtown, host potlucks and picnics, put on the Annual Daffodil Show and Holiday Home Tour & Tea, plant trees on Arbor Day, and much more! The Fortuna Garden Club meets at 1:00 p.m. on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the Monday Club, 610 Main Street.

Anyone interested in joining the club can attend a meeting to hear more information.

Cit y update Your Measure E Tax Dollars HARD at Work in Fortuna!

In 2016, the voters of the city approved Measure E, a ¾% transaction and use tax to protect and maintain essential City services including public safety, street repair, parks maintenance, and programs and services for seniors. An oversight committee was formed in order to obtain public input and make recommendations to the City Council for the use of those funds.

The revenue from the Measure E transaction and use tax in the last fiscal year was $1.58M and was distributed across City departments including Police, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, and General Fund/Administration as shown in the table below: $43,485 CIP - City Hall

4%

$581,193 Police 50%

$76,320 Cover General Fund Deficit Admin/City Hall

6%

$205,952 Parks and Recreation 18%

$260,665 Public Works 22%

Meaure E Expenditures by Department The significant projects and positions funded with this revenue include the following: Hillside Creek Flood Control Remember in February 2015 when you could have rowed a canoe down Fortuna Boulevard? Measure E funding provided the necessary matching funds (25%) for the Hillside Flood Control Project to leverage a FEMA grant in the amount of $1.875M to stop the flooding from Rohner Creek and Hillside Creek.

The last phase of a 10-year project was completed in October and included the replacement of three culverts and expansion of the Hillside Creek channel so that it can accommodate the 100-year flood. This will eliminate the flood plain from over 150 parcels in Fortuna and will remove the requirement for flood insurance for property owners after FEMA

completes the re-mapping of the flood plain. The City expects to initiate the re-mapping early this year.

Street Paving Notice fewer bumps in the road? Perhaps it’s because $75,000 of Measure E funds were designated for street maintenance projects and Hillside Creek after Flood the City used these Control Project funds to complete several small paving projects throughout the city. This included 12th Street reaching from Clendenen’s Cider Works to the Caltrans Right-of Way, Kenmar Road at Kelli Way, the alley between 9th and 10th, Church Street near Kenmar Road, and at the entrance to the Dog Park on Dinsmore Drive. Although not brand new roads, these small repairs extend the life of the roadway and will prevent the need for higher cost repairs in the future.

Storm Drain Maintenance We are keeping our streets dry and safe thanks to $100,000 of Measure E funds designated for storm drain maintenance.

With a majority of the City’s storm drains near the end of useful life, the City relied on these funds for a variety of repair projects. This included a sinkhole on Elizabeth Barcus Way, the replacement of a failing culvert on Harlan Way, and channel repairs on the Rohner Creek Culvert at Main Street. With no City or State dedicated funding for storm drain maintenance, this funding has been essential to deal with maintenance issues that otherwise would have to be paid for by the City’s General Fund. The City is currently seeking grants for a comprehensive storm drain maintenance program and hope to share more information in the near future on potential long-term funding strategies.

Newburg Ball Field Lights Have you noticed how much brighter the ball fields are at Newburg Park?

The prior lights in Newburg Park were originally placed over 25 years ago. The Parks and Recreation Continued on next page

11

Continued from previous page

Cit y update Department has recently completed the installation of 136 new 1500-watt metal-halide lights in the park’s four existing ballfields. Some of the removed lights that still work will be used to replace non-working lights at Rohner Park’s three ballfields. Thank you to Redi-Rents/Sunbelt for providing the manlift!

Replacement of Hydration Stations Thirsty? Three separate hydration stations were purchased with Measure E funds, including an outdoor station with a water bottle filler and dog fountain at Conroy Field in Rohner Park, inside the Firemen’s Pavilion, and the last location will be installed later this year in one of our city parks.

Parks and Recreation Director Have you met our Parks and Recreation Director? Measure E

continued to fund the Parks & Recreation Director position and our Parks Director, Cameron Mull, is in his second year in this position. Having a Director focused on parks allows more projects to be completed and improves our recreation programs and senior bus services. One of the projects Cameron recently coordinated was the revamp of the bike park at Newburg Park into a pump track that has a small, looping trail system that you can ride continuously without pedaling. Thanks to Wahlund Construction for volunteering their time and equipment!

General Fund Deficit The costs of doing business are rising for everyone including the City. Everything is more expensive, from utility bills to health insurance. One of the most important uses of Measure E funds was to cure the City’s structural budget deficit, which is affected by rising pension costs, increases for health insurance, and state and federal requirements that translate to more expenses for the City. Higher costs combined with a downward trend in sales tax is not a good combination.

Fortuna continues to operate in the black primarily due to the Measure E transaction and use tax.

Interestingly, as we are seeing revenue decline from the 1% sales tax that the City receives from general sales tax, Measure E, the City’s transaction and use

Friday Night

5

$ 00

Fun Night WHERE: ROHNER PARK FIREMAN‛S PAVILION WHEN: FRIDAY NIGHTS FROM 6:00 – 9:00 PM Date night, shopping with the girls, or just want some alone time? Bring your child (ages 6-12) down to Rohner Park‛s Fireman‛s Pavilion for fun sports, games, and activities. Limited space is available! Must have completed forms and liability waiver on files. All children must be signed in and out by parent.

12

Coffee with the Chief 8:00 am - 10:00 am Thursday, February 20th, 2020 Starbucks Coffee Company 1095 S Fortuna Blvd., Fortuna We invite community members to drop in any time during the two-hour event to meet and chat with our interim Chief of Police, Mike Downey, and ask questions. And, of course, come and enjoy a free cup of coffee.

This event is generously sponsored by Starbuck’s Coffee Company Fortuna.

tax, is trending slightly higher because of collection of taxes spent by Fortuna residents out of the area, such as for online sales and vehicle purchases.

Detective and Problem Oriented Police (POP) Officer Notice how quickly crimes are being solved by our police in the News Blogs? That is no accident.

The detective and POP Officer funded by Measure E are directly responsible for solving high-profile crime cases, conducting probation and parole checks, and working with the County and Fish and Wildlife officers to reduce the number of illegal campsites in and around the city. Our Detective has been assigned or has assisted with most major felony crime that occurred in 2019; crimes such as rape, robbery, and major child abuse cases, and as a result, we are seeing a very high rate of these crimes solved and arrests made.

Community Services Officer (CSO) Fewer stray cats howling at your fence at night? Any easier to find a parking spot Downtown? If so, you may have our CSO to thank. The City’s Measure E funded CSO is a vital position for the department and handles lower level misdemeanor type crimes, parking issues, and animal control issues. This allows our sworn officers to focus their efforts on responding and solving more serious crimes.

New Police K-9 We hope to be taking a bite out of crime again in the near future!

Unfortunately, the City had to retire its highly successful and loved K-9, Nordy, due to medical issues last year. Measure E funding was set aside to purchase and train a new K-9 and handler and the department hopes to identify our next K-9 officer and re-start the program. K-9 units provide an invaluable service and will improve the department’s effectiveness for drug interdiction and tracking along with locating and apprehending fleeing criminals or missing persons.

Code Compliance Our new Measure E funded code compliance officer has been very busy during his first year. He has focused on cleaning up

Code compliance, before (left) and after (right) abatement.

neighborhood nuisances that impact the safety and cleanliness of our neighborhoods. Many properties have been cleaned up by the owners, but others have required formal abatement by the City without any help from the property owners. The abatements will help to maintain property values and preserve the character of our city.

Fortuna Police Department Retirement Police Chief William Dobberstein retired on January 17, 2020 after 25 years of service. According to a release from the City, Dobberstein was “instrumental in the department adding a drug Retired Police Chief William Dobberstein task force agent, File photo school resource officer, two police detectives, [and] increasing the Fortuna Police Department’s ability to serve. Chief Dobberstein increased the department’s community policing efforts, working closely with department volunteers to engage and educate members of our community …. Chief Dobberstein is grateful to the Fortuna City Council, members of the Fortuna Police Department, and our community for the opportunity he has had to serve as a member of the Fortuna Police Department.” Thank you to the Continued on next page

13

Continued from previous page

Cit y update Chief for his many years of service in law enforcement and in our community. Happy retirement and best wishes!

New Officers The Fortuna Police Department recently welcomed two new officers, Silas Grigsby and Thomas MacLeod.

Silas Grigsby worked his first patrol shift for Fortuna on November 25, 2019. Prior to attending the Police Academy in Eureka and joining the department, Grigsby worked for the Ferndale Police Department and the McKinleyville Community Services District. He studied Liberal Arts at College of the Redwoods and worked as a Loss Control Officer for Target Corporation. According to a release from the City, Grigsby is “really looking forward to serving the community of Fortuna. ... Though he has previously worked as a police officer, he will need to complete the mandatory 16-week field training period required of all Fortuna Officers.”

910 S Fortuna Blvd., Fortuna

(707) 725-9376

SIX RIVERS REAL ESTATE

SixRiversRealEstate.com

Humboldt’s Oldest - Family Owned-Since 1966!

Looking for a new home in Humboldt County, or are you ready to sell?

Call one of our agents today or visit our web and search for your dream home for free!

Silas Grigsby Photo by Enoch Ibarra

Debbie August Broker/Owner DRE#00604073

John Egan Realtor Associate/ Partner DRE#01438132

Katy Lund Realtor - Associate DRE#02035968

Laura Olson Executive Office Manager/ Bookkeeper 707-725-9376

Candice Martella Realtor - Associate DRE#01973376

Wendy Medders Broker - Associate DRE#01888500

Tami Erickson Realtor - Associate DRE#01227851

SixRiversRealEstate.com | 707-725-9376

14

Thomas MacLeod was sworn in on September 5, 2019. He is a 2013 graduate of the Redwoods Police Academy and recently worked for the Shasta County Marshal’s Office. “He’s already shown that he’s got the dedication and commitment that we need here at the Fortuna Police Department. I think he’s going to be a great addition to the department and the community,” said William Dobberstein, retired Fortuna Police Chief.

Thomas MacLeod Photo by Enoch Ibarra

Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department 2020 Fire Academy

The Eel River Valley Fire Academy will once again be up and running with participants from local fire departments including Rio Dell, Ferndale, Loleta, Fortuna, Bridgeville, Redcrest, Shivley, and Humboldt Bay. The academy, which provides entry level structural firefighting and rescue training to local volunteer firefighters, is designed to bring new firefighters into compliance with National Fire Protection Association training standards to ensure that they can operate both safely and efficiently on the fire ground and/or rescue scene.

Division Chief Rus Brown of Fortuna oversees the Academy, which has proven to be very successful since its inception as a probationary academy back in 2005. Training sessions, which are hosted at the various fire department locations throughout the Eel River Valley, will begin on March 5, and wrap up with a final exam and skills verification on April 25.

Once completed, students will have received a total of 80 hours of basic firefighter training in areas such as ladder operations, firefighter survival, auto extrication, and fire behavior; just to name a few.

Become a Volunteer Firefighter

Have you ever considered becoming a firefighter?

Firefighters are usually the first on scene, whether it’s a fire, accident, medical emergency, rescue, or any sort of disaster. When the fire whistle blows, they answer the call.

The skills you will learn as a volunteer firefighter are numerous and multi-faceted. They are useful not only on a fire/rescue scene, but also at home and the workplace. Common requirements to join a volunteer fire department include a minimum age of

18 years, physical exam, and background check.

If you have the desire to help others, maybe on the worst day of their lives, then volunteering as a firefighter in Fortuna just might be the right thing for you. For more information, Newly promoted Captain Carmen Glass visit fortunaPhoto by Mary Bullwinkel fire.com or contact the fire department at 725-5021.

Promotion

For the first time in the history of the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department, a woman is a captain, leading Company 4 and the Hydesville fire station.

Carmen Glass has been promoted to captain and will be taking over for the retiring captain, Steve Underwood.

“I am extremely honored and humbled,” Glass said, adding, “I would like to earn the promotion just as a person and not specifically for being female.” She said she is proud to be a member of the department and hopes to make the department proud as well.

Glass joined the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department in 2010 and completed the Eel River Probationary Academy in 2011. In 2012 Glass was promoted to First Lieutenant and Company Training Office in 2012. She is a nationally registered EMT and fire apparatus engineer, as well as a member of the Eel River Valley Technical Rescue Team. Glass currently serves as the Fortuna Fire District Secretary.

“Carmen brings to the table a great understanding of both the administrative side and the operational side of the business, along with the experience, skills, and abilities necessary to succeed,” Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department Chief Lon Winburn said. “She is already very well respected within the department and admired for her passion for this fire department and the fire service in general.”

— Mary Bullwinkel 15

16

fort una business improvement distric t What is the Fortuna Business Improvement District (FBID)? Did you know that every Fortuna business license holder pays an FBID assessment that is collected by the City? The location of the business determines where the funds are allocated. Businesses in core areas control a part of their funds through their associations.

The Fortuna Downtown Business Association consists of 91 business license holders (7th-14th and N to L Street). Strongs Creek Plaza Association consists of 14 businesses and Redwood Village Shopping Center has 17 businesses in their shopping center association.

All of these businesses are considered members of the Business Improvement District (BID), as well as their associations. All the associations control 62% of the funds collected by their members. They use these funds to run ads, host events, help with public décor, and beautification. All other businesses are considered City Wide businesses and FBID uses their funds to run ads, co-host events, help with public décor, community beautification, and we help grow business through recruitment and retention. FBID is a resource center for new and existing businesses and works with the Fortuna Downtown Business Association, Strongs Creek Plaza Association, and Redwood Village Shopping Center Merchants Association to ensure all businesses are being represented. FBID also assists with community events.

If you’re looking to relocate or start a business in Fortuna, please contact FBID and they can help guide you through the process. The FBID office can be found inside the Monday Club at 610 Main Street, Fortuna. They can be reached by email at fbid@fortunabusiness.com or by phone at (707) 725-9261.

College of the Redwoods Workforce and Community Education will offer an educational class on the history of cannabis by Randy Weaver.

“Investigate the history of cannabis, a plant which has been intertwined with humanity since prehistory, through several themed modules. Each module will cover a different part of cannabis history from the ancient era up to post-legalization state of affairs.” The classes will take place March 23 – April 15 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the CR Downtown Eureka Site located at 525 D Street, Eureka. Fee: $95.00. To register, please call (707) 476-4500. Information is power. If you are uninformed on cannabis and would like to be informed, FBID encourages you to take this class.

Our Newest PE’s

Brett Whitchurch

Ryan Cameron

Raised in Humboldt County, Brett graduated from Fortuna High in 2009. He attended UC Davis and received a BS & MS in Civil Engineering with a focus in Structural Design.

Born and raised in Eureka, Ryan graduated from Eureka High in 2008. He attended Wentworth Institute of Technology and Virginia State University receiving a BS & MS in Civil Engineering with a focus on Structural Design.

MS, PE

MS, PE

Brett and Ryan have joined our team now with 11 PEs, 6 EITs, 1 licensed Architect, 1 Certified Building Official, 2 design/drafting professionals, and 8 support staff.

SERVICES INCLUDE: • • • • •

Civil Mechanical Electrical Structural Permit Assistance

or whitchurchengineering.com

Fortuna Home Office 610 9th St., Fortuna, CA 95540

(707) 725-6926

Eureka Home Office 716 Harris St., Eureka, CA 95503

(707) 444-1420

17

PLEASE Adams MENTION THIS AD AND Oil RECIEVE 10% OFF Well & Repair

103 12th St. Fortuna, CA

(707) 682-8106

FORTUNA IRON 2832 Old State Hwy• Fortuna CA 95540 (Across the highway from Hansen’s)

725-2608

www.fortunairon.com RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL CUSTOMIZATION CUSTOM WELDING & FABRICATION Gates, Railings, Stairs, Custom, Ornamental Iron, Lumber Racks, RVs, Trucks, Trailers and Heavy Equipment Repair CERTIFIED WELDING Punching, Shearing & Forming, Structural Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum

Proud to be in our community for over 30 years!

Enjoy a host of U.S. Bank products and services right here.

FORTUNA (707) 725-3326 1101 L Street, Fortuna, CA 95540 PD-CA-3805 | www.usbank.com 18

Grave Mat ters

I

n October, Grave Matters & Untimely Departures celebrated their 10th Anniversary. Each year, director Dr. Alexandra Service (curator of the Fortuna Depot Museum) brings tales of intrigue and anguish to life with the help of some of the area’s finest actors and costumes provided

by Kate Leona Newby.

This year’s ensemble included a would-be deadly dentist who tried to kill a colleague who’d insulted him, the daughter of the Star Hotel owners who died as a bride in 1907 and was buried in her wedding gown, a thirteen Host: Dr. Raymond Frank Nelson (1899-1942). Actor: Caleb Haley. year old who married a Civil War veteran 16 years her senior and died two months after her husband’s death after 49 years of marriage, the daughter of a pioneer Humboldt family who died in a tragic car accident, America Jane Moore, who divorced three husbands in the 1870s and 80s and chased her third husband off the family property at gunpoint, a mother who died rescuing her daughter from a well shaft in 1912, a Fortuna High School student killed in a 1928 football accident, a Portland university student who took part Sheila Ann Davenport (1943in a double suicide in the 1966). Actor: Alyx Sirca. redwoods in 1966, and Fortuna Police officer Ray Q. Mills, who died in the line of duty 53 years ago.

Grave Matters takes place at Sunrise Cemetery on the Sunday before Halloween.

Apple Harvest Festival

Bob Judevine of Redwood Capital Bank at the wheel.

Photo by Ashley Ramirez

T

he Apple Harvest Festival in Fortuna brings hundreds of folks to town for free hayrides and activities including the Downtown Fortuna Street Fair, cider tasting and orchard hayrides at Clendenen’s Cider Works, the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department Open House & Disaster Fair, Shriner’s clowns and games at Strongs Creek Plaza, and a variety sale and games at Rohner Park. This event, started in 1984 by the Clendenen family, is a city-wide celebration of history, family, and farms, with plenty of apple and cider tasting and fun for the whole family!

Trunk or Treat

M

ain Street was full of kids in costumes for the annual Halloween Trunk or Treat. This annual event by the Fortuna Downtown Business Association is a great way for kids 12 and under to safely trick or treat as the City closes off Main Street from 9th to 12th from 3-5 p.m. Any merchant, non-profit, or service club located in Fortuna is welcome to participate. You can contact the Downtown Business Association at fortunabusiness.org.

Bar Open at 4 PM | Dining Room Open at 5 PM Tuesday - Saturday

320 Main St, Fortuna • 707-725-3700

Build to edge of the document Margins are just a safe area

707-682-8100 HUMBOLDTEQUITY.COM

MATT ALLEN OWNER BROKER

19

▶ cALENDAr of EveNts Feb. 1

February

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

Feb. 3

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Darla McGrath, Daughters of the American Revolution.

Community CPR/AED Class, Fortuna Fire’s Main Station, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. RSVP to 725-5021.

needs, photography, art, and more. If you are interested in participating in this event, please contact FBID at fbid@fortunabusiness.com or (707) 725-9261. Free admission.

March 2

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Jesse Gabriel Photography.

Community CPR/AED Class, Fortuna Fire’s Main Station, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. RSVP to 725-5021.

Regular City Council Meeting, City Hall Chambers, 6 p.m.

March 3

Feb. 7

Super Tuesday

Feb. 8

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

March 6

Fortuna Concert Series, Fortuna Monday Club. Doors 6:45 p.m., show 7:30 p.m., featuring Garrick Woods & Daniela L. Mineva. A concert cello and piano duo with an all-Russian program entitled “From Russia with Love.”

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

March 7

Feb. 10

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Raquel Ortega, CA Conservation Corps.

Feb. 14

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Feb. 15

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

Scottish Rite Valley of Northern California Shrimp Feed 2020, River Lodge Conference Center, Cocktails: 5:30 p.m. Dinner 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 17

President’s Day, Chamber Office Closed.

Feb. 18

Regular City Council Meeting, City Hall Chambers, 6 p.m.

Feb. 20

Coffee with the Chief, Starbucks, 1095 S Fortuna Blvd., 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Drop in to meet and chat with our interim Chief of Police, Mike Downey.

Feb. 21

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Feb. 22

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

Feb. 24

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

March 8

Sips with Soroptimists of the Eel River Valley, River Lodge Conference Center. Doors open at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $30.00 with proceeds benefiting the programs of SIERV. For tickets, please contact Sue Finch at (707) 616-4620.

March 9

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Stephanie Metteauer, Membership Manager, Redwoods Area Girl Scouts of Northern California.

March 13

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

March 14

Fortuna High Safe & Sober Dinner & Auction, River Lodge Conference Center, 1800 Riverwalk Dr. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Fortuna Concert Series, Fortuna Monday Club, 610 Main Street. Doors 6:45 p.m., Show 7:30 p.m., featuring Chamber Players of the Redwoods. With a mixture of woodwind, brass, string, and piano chamber ensembles, listeners will hear a range of music, from baroque to contemporary. Players will be some of the finest musicians from around Humboldt County.

Library Day, Veterans’ Hall, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

March 16

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: TBA Regular City Council Meeting, City Hall Chambers, 6 p.m.

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Second District Supervisor Candidate Forum.

March 17

Feb. 27

March 18

Fortuna Chamber Annual Awards Dinner and Auction, River Lodge Conference Center, Doors open 5:30 p.m. Program 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 28

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Feb. 29

Happy Leap Year!

McLean Foundation’s 20th Anniversary & Open House Celebration, Gene Lucas Community Center, 3000 Newburg Rd., 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

March 1

March

Home Based Business Expo, Hosted by Fortuna Business Improvement District. Fortuna Monday Club, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Fortuna has over 130 home based businesses. Find out how you can support our community by using home based businesses for your yard work, plumbing or handy man

20

Happy St. Patrick’s Day Chamber Mixer hosted by EPT Physical Therapy & Wellness Center, 1095 S. Fortuna Blvd., 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

March 20

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

March 21

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

March 23

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Mary Ann Hytken, English Express.

March 27

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

March 28

45th Annual Daffodil Show, River Lodge Conference Center, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Free admission. Enjoy free refreshments and music as well as 32 varieties of potted daffodils available for donation purchase.

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

March 29

45th Annual Daffodil Show, River Lodge Conference Center, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Free admission.

March 30

Chamber Breakfast Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Guest Speaker: Amy Scolari, Wild Souls Ranch.

April 3

aPrIL

We Bring The VieW Back To You 357 Main St., Fortuna, CA 95540 www.redwoodglassandwindows.com

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

April 4

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

April 6

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Emily Kirsch, Eddy Alexander.

Community CPR/AED Class, Fortuna Fire’s Main Station, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. RSVP to 725-5021.

Regular City Council Meeting, City Hall Chambers, 6 p.m.

April 10

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

April 11

Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by Soroptimist International of Eel River Valley.

Rohner Park. 10:00 a.m. sharp! Children 12 and under may participate.

Fortuna Concert Series, Fortuna Monday Club. Doors 6:45 p.m., Show 7:30 p.m., featuring Scotia Ragtime Band. Performing a set of ragtime music during the first half of the program (including vocals by David Demant), followed by “One Week,” a silent movie starring Buster Keaton, after intermission.

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

April 13

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Megan Gotcher, Juvenile Division Director, Humboldt County Probation Department.

April 15

Chamber Mixer hosted by C.Crane, 172 Main Street, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

April 17

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

April 18

River Life Foundation Celebrates Earth Day, with a BBQ fundraiser.

Veteran’s Memorial Bldg. Noon to 3:00 p.m. For tickets call Sean at 362-9384.

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

In over 40 years in business, SHN has assisted Fortuna City, schools, and businesses with their engineering, geology, planning, surveying, and environmental needs.

Thank You to the Friendly City! shn-engr.com

Build to edge of the document Margins are just a safe area

Tires • Auto • Trucks • Tractors Brakes • Shocks • Alignments 260 S. Fortuna Blvd.

Fortuna, CA 95540 Lisa Hummel Owner

Wendy Hummel Owner

Phone: 707-725-4120

Build to edge ofwww.hummeltire.com the document Margins are just a safe area

April 20

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker: TBA Regular City Council Meeting, City Hall Chambers, 6 p.m.

April 24

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

April 25

Saturday Skate Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Ages 6+ $5.50, under 5 years $3.50.

April 27

Chamber Meeting, Fortuna Monday Club, noon to 1 p.m.

Guest Speaker TBA.

April 31

Friday Night Fun Night, Rohner Park Firemen’s Pavilion, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

FAMILY SHOES & REPAIR

New Spring styles arriving soon Full Family Shoe Store Many Sizes and Widths Available

Marilyn Strehl, C.PED Certified Pedorthic ID #2262

12TH & MAIN, FORTUNA • 707.725.2610

21

Generosity Leadership Inclusion In the 2018-2019 fiscal year Humboldt Area Foundation reinvested $250, 000 back into the Fortuna community through grants, scholarships and loans, all thanks to the generosity of donors like you.

For more information about the foundation and stories of community impact, visit hafoundation.org, follow us on social media or call our Donor Engagement team at 707-267-9905.

1

S ave 3 W ays Quality Name Brands You Can Trust!

2

Guaranteed Low Prices Every Day!

3

Service After The Sale!

1027 Main Street, Fortuna • redwoodappliancecenter.com Sales 725-7918 • Service 725-7919 22

C RYS TA L L E W I S

SERVING HUMBOLDT INSURANCE PRODUCTS

Auto • Home • Business Property • Life • Health

1336 Main Street, Fortuna

707. 72 5.113 5 Lic # 0 D7 7118 23