FALL 2022 QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER PRSRT STD US POSTAGEPAID EUREKA, CA PERMIT NO. 76 ECRWSS
2 Saturday, October FortunaAppleHarvest.org1 Clendenen’s Cider Works Downtown Street Fair Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department Open House Rohner Park Skate Night Sorry, no hay wagons this year • Tourist Information & Attractions • Bike Rentals • Event Ticket Outlet • Ferndale’s own Guy memorabiliaFieri and merchandise A historic space that’s home to over 100 Humboldt 394FerndaleMakersCounty&TheEnterpriseMainSt.Ferndale,CA WWW.HUMBOLDTSHOMETOWNSTORE.COM
3 February Savings Event Great selection to choose from. Our appliance experts are ready to help. Great selection to choose from. Our appliance experts are ready to help. 1001 Main St., Fortuna • 707 725-6734 • EelValleyAppliance.com • Largest in stock new &used inventory • Competitive price guarantee • Delivery and Service after the sale 125 12th St. FORTUNA725.2852 334 Main St. FERNDALE786.9300 CALL US TODAY! TWO LOCATIONS SERVING ALL OF HUMBOLDT COUNTY L AND M AR K R E A L ES TA T E www.landmarkhumboldt.com LANDMARKHUMBOLDT LANDMARKHUMBOLDT LICENSE #01857152 Dedicated to keeping our community safe. Humboldt County COVID-19 Approval Certifi cate JESSICA VAN PELT-STRETCH Broker Associate LIC# 01204126 JEREMYBrokerSTANFIELDOwner LIC# 01339550 MELINDA KORNDER Sales Associate LIC# 01035959 ANDREASalesVARGAS-LOPEZAssociate LIC# 02155917 DEVON BOLLAN Sales Associate LIC# 02080831 LAREESA STANFIELD Broker Associate LIC# 02070934 MOLLY WICKE Sales Associate LIC# 01983594 LEAH PRICE Sales Associate LIC# 01728836
4 BOARD OF 2022-23DIRECTORS CHAIR OF THE BOARD Bailey CornerstoneDavyRealty IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Kelly UmpquaIsaacsonBank VICE CHAIR OF THE BOARD Melissa Sanderson North Coast Journal, Inc. AMBASSADOR CHAIR Jenn Brown, CA State Department of Housing & Community Development DIRECTORS Kim Brown, Cornerstone Realty Kristin Chambers, Sequoia Gas Company Cody Hurst, The Hurst Group Crystal Lewis, Crystal Lewis State Farm Insurance Katy Roe, Umpqua Bank Greg Seiler, Edward Jones Financial Amber Woodward, AP Property Management FINANCIAL ADVISOR Greg Thomsen Wyatt, Whitchurch & Andersen STAFF Renee Lindsay, President & CEO Stephanie Richardson, Membership Coordinator 735 14th Street Fortuna, CA 95540 (707) 725-3959 www.fortunachamber.com ©2022 The Quarterly Newsletter is a publication of the Fortuna Chamber of Commerce. Entire contents are copyrighted. No article may be reprinted without written permission. 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 LisaOwnerHummel WendyOwnerHummel Phone: www.hummeltire.com707-725-4120 725-2608 FORTUNA IRON 2832 Old State Hwy• Fortuna CA 95540 (Across the highway from Hansen’s) 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 www.fortunairon.com RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL CUSTOMIZATION ◊ Scans ◊ Word Processing ◊ Office Supplies ◊ Custom Forms ◊ Authorized UPS shipper ◊ PG&E Payment Center ◊ Copies & Faxes ◊ Notary ◊ Greeting Cards & Gifts 1137 Main St, Fortuna, CA 95540 707-725-6542; Fax print@horizonbusinessproducts.com707-725-6541www.horizonbusinessproducts.com UsedQualityCarsforLess $$$$$ UsedQualityCarsforLess $$$$$ 195 S. Fortuna Blvd. Fortuna, CA (707) RaysFortuna.com725-6225
5 sidewalks at Newburg Park. See more photos on page 22. ▶ contents 4 On the Cover 5 President’s Message 6 Welcome New Members 11 Chili Cook-off Winners 12 Fortuna Senior Center Update 13 Ribbon Cuttings 16 Chamber Member Spotlights 21 Support Your Local Kiwanis Club 21 Redwoods Rural Health Center Remodels Dental Office 22 Pastels in the Park On the cover (707) 725-5111 1784 Smith Lane, Fortuna, CA. 95540 Hours of Operation Mon - Sat: 7:30a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. StartStartright,here.HOMEIMPROVEMENTMADEEASIER! Let us help get your day started Thirsty Thursdays 1665 Main Street, Fortuna, CA • 541 Wildwood Ave, Rio Dell, CA Monday-Saturday: 6:00am - 5:30pm • Sunday: 7:00am - 5:00pm Shots on us every Thursday! Extra shots of espresso are on us every Thursday. So go ahead and get that extra pick me up. We’re here for you. •Parker Hoses & Fittings ••••••FiltrationHydraulicsPneumaticsSealsInstrumentationAW496&Tractor Oil • Cylinder Repair. 750 Riverwalk 707-298-1918FORTUNADrwww. westcoasthydraulics .us
6WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
CASA of Humboldt is a non-profit agency that was established in 1991 with the goal of providing every child in the Humboldt County Dependency Court System (foster care) a volunteer advocate to stay by their side through the entire court process. A CASA volunteer represents a stable and consistent relationship with the children in foster care who often have
The inspirationnone. for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) came to Seattle juvenile court judge David W. Soukup in 1976. Judge Soukup realized he had insufficient information to make a life-changing decision for a 3-year-old girl who had suffered from child abuse. These children, who had experienced abuse or neglect, needed trained volunteers who would spend time getting to know them and then speaking up in the courtroom for their best inter ests. In 1991, CASA of Humboldt was formed with the support of our local judges. A CASA is a Court Appointed Special Advocate - a volunteer who goes through training to learn how to mentor children and advocate for the best interest of children and their families. CASA volunteers are legally appointed by a judge to their CASA child and spend 10-12 hours per month working on behalf of their CASA child. CASA volunteers spend quality time participating in fun activities with the child they are matched with, and in doing so while getting to know the child, they also gather information from all the important people in a child’s life and advocate for the best interests and needs of the child. At reg ular court hearings required for all children in foster care, CASAs report on the children’s progress and needs. This reporting is essential for judges to make the best decision for the wellbeing of the child and theirCASAfuture.iskicking off Super-Kid Season! Super Kid Season runs from August 8th-October 8th and it is their biggest fundraising time of the year. A “SuperKids Season” team is a group of people that come together to support local kids in foster care. They form a team and participate in a variety of fundrais ers that they develop, to raise money to facilitate the CASA program. The teams can be whatever size you want; fundraising together is fun and meaningful no matter the team size! From coin cans & bake sales to CASA hosted events, there are so many great ways to raise money! Once you register your team, their staff will help you design your plan. Friendly compe tition is a long-standing tradition for this fundraiser and is a great motivator to see who will hold the top fundraising crown in each category. When working towards the same goal, providing every child in foster care with a CASA, everyone’s a winner! So, grab your friends, coworkers, or family members and register your team or check out their sponsorship opportunities at humboldtcasa.org.
There are hundreds of children in the Humboldt County foster care system that would benefit from a CASA. Trainings occur all year long so if you are interested in learning more, fill out an interest form at humboldtcasa.org or call them at (707) 443-3197.
Golden State Succulents originated in 2018 as Golden State Greenhouse, operating mainly as an online and drop shipping company where they sold agriculture and greenhouse supplies. Owners Marc and Michelle Oliver grew succulents at home and sometimes sold them on request as arrangements or individual potted plants. As demand grew for fresh flowers and succulent basket deliveries increased, Michelle said to Marc that they should transition to more of a local flower delivery and succulent provider. They bought a Grunman Olsen box truck and turned it into a mobile flower boutique head quarters and re-branded their business as Golden State Succulents. They started attending local events and popping up at random spots. Now, four years later and with overwhelming support from the local community and local vendors, they made the huge step of opening their own storefront at 1012 Main Street. The store will allow them to better serve their customers and the local community. They
to write grants with YEP. Through donating and presenting those to the businesses in Fortuna and working with many kids through the schools, she found her passion for helping people succeed. For extra money, she would help family friends with jobs they needed help with. Deep cleaning parts of their homes, organizing junk drawers, yard work, child and pet care; no job was too small. When seeing the relief that her help provided others in completing a difficult task, she found a passion in inspiring others. Never did she think that she could make a career out of that. In early 2022, after becoming unemployed, Lexi made a Facebook post to find friends or family that needed help with any type of cleaning or pet care. A lot of people took her up on that offer and she decided to create a business out of it.
Inside Golden State Succulents. carry a variety of products for sale at the store, on Facebook, and online at goldenstatesucculents. com. You can find succulents, glass bird feeders, hand blown glass planters, arts and crafts kits, hand painted stepping stones, custom game board sets, signs, trays, wood turned planters, plus locally made handcrafted items from vendors such as driftwood art, soaps, and jewelry. They currently offer fresh cut flower and succulent basket delivery to the great er Eel River Valley area. You can visit Golden State Succulents at 1012 Main Street. You can reach them by phone at (707) 267–8237.
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Lexi Stowe is the founder of a new small busi ness in Fortuna called Helping Inspire. Born and raised in Fortuna, Lexi graduated from Fortuna High School in 2019. During high school, Lexi fell in love with the small town and the community that she saw in Fortuna. She did her part to help make Fortuna the outstanding town that it is by spending her time volunteering in a variety of ways at local schools through a program called Youth Engaged in Philanthropy (YEP). She wanted to give back and support local businesses, so she learned how
The Eureka Real Estate Board was formally orga nized on January 25, 1922 and chartered on May 30 of the same year. With a founding membership of nine brokers and 14 sales agents, the Association has grown to a current membership of 455 Realtors, 35 MLS-only agents, and 95 affiliate members.
Lexi’s goal with Helping Inspire is to help people get past whatever roadblocks are holding them back from completing overwhelming tasks around the house. Not only does she help with the task at hand, but she also wants them to know they can succeed and feel accomplished. Whether the closet is too full to look at, the dusty blinds are too much of a stress to clean, or if your family is getting ready for vacation and need help with your furry friends, Lexi and Helping Inspire is here to help. If you ever need a helping hand, you can contact Lexi Stowe at Helping Inspire by email at helping. inspire14@gmail.com or by phone at (707) 497-9500.
Under the direction of a board of directors, the Humboldt Association of Realtors provides educa tion and support to realtor members. Realtors are held to a higher code of ethics and education re quirements than real estate professionals. Therefore, they promote the realtor brand encouraging edu cation and ethics. In conjunction with the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors, HAR advocates for fair, affordable, and
The Humboldt Association of Realtors is a trade association representing more than 455 Realtors in Humboldt County.
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The Humboldt Association of Realtors has three membership types available: Realtor member, MLS only member, and Affiliate Member. You can learn more about their membership options, committees, and more at harealtors.com.
Encouraging the community to shop locally is another way the Humboldt Association of Realtors likes to get involved. By offering members a one stop shop for local gift certificates, they can choose local shops, restaurants, and experiences as gifts for their clients with ease. Many of their members purchase gifts for their clients when a home sale closes. Here’s how it works: HAR members order gift certificates for their clients to use at your business. HAR staff produces the gift certificate, which is mailed out to the clients. Gift certificates are usually in the range of $50-$200, sometimes higher. Once their gift certificate is used in your business, you need
Owners Joanna Ortiz and her husband, Jose Luis Garcinuno, relocated from their home in Chile 18 years ago. They have three children - Agustín (21) who studies at Wharton School of Business in Philadelphia, Victoria (19) who lives in Eureka and works as a waitress at Peppers in Arcata, and Antonio (19) who is going to play soccer at CSU Stanislaus in Turlock this coming school year. They decided to move to the United States so that their children could learn another language and experience another culture. When they’re not making delicious donuts, Joanna works as a home visitor with Early Head Start and Jose works for Green Diamond Resource Company in Korbel. They recently rescued a two-year old dog named Lulu. About 15 years ago, Jose came up with the idea of accessible housing, and property rights.
The HAR Cares for Youth Committee gives back through direct donation requests, the annual school supply/backpack giveaway, and helping fund placemaking projects for the community to enjoy!
Continued from previous page WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
8 only to send an invoice (email or fax) and HAR will reimburse you within a week. All gift certificates are authorized by the association staff member who produces and signs each of the certificates. A database of all distributed gift certificates is maintained so that they are easily tracked should a question ever come up. If you would like more information on this program, please contact Kristen at (707) 4422978 or kristenc@harealtors.com.
LoveMiniDonuts
Fortuna Chamber member businesses can participate in this program with zero cost!
HuMBoldt Association of Realtors
Joanna Ortiz and Jose Luis Garcinuno selling their warm and yummy donuts at AutoXpo. LoveMiniDonuts
Realtors not only help Humboldt County residents achieve their dream of home ownership, they also actively participate in the community. Their committees help raise funds for local initiatives, advocate for property rights, and donate to youth. In partnership with business affiliates, HAR can add value to the community by providing community service and promoting quality of life for realtors and residents alike.Locally, the Humboldt Association of Realtors likes to give back and create opportunities for growth with our committees. This year, Humboldt Association of Realtors will host its 26th annual golf tournament on September 16, at Beau Pre Golf Course benefiting Food for People. This event is open to non-members and members alike, so if anyone would like to golf, they would be happy to set them up with a team and cart.
LoveMiniDonuts offers catering with their donut machine, cooking up hot, fresh donuts for up to two hours. They also have a white display cart that can be rented for parties and events. Custom donuts are also available. All donuts are made with organic eggs and glazed with ingredients that are fresh and homemade. LoveMiniDonuts can be reached at (707) 601-0942 or online at loveminidonuts.com.
State Mandated Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
Member Discount
MorGan Dodson, Realtor
9 getting a mini donut machine. He had enjoyed watching them being made at Pier 39 in San Francisco and in Old Town Sacramento. After purchasing the machine, he started showcasing his donuts at the Humboldt County Fair and Redwood Acres Fair, as well as selling them during soccer season at Newburg Park. The profit helped them support their younger son with soccer traveling expenses and club fees for several years. During the last year, Joanna came up with the idea of taking their mini donut business to the next level and selling them as a gourmet treat. She re-branded their business as LoveMiniDonuts and began offering them in different local businesses. The community started reaching out for private parties and local events and the rest is history.
Tuesday 9.20.22 Fortuna Monday Club | 610 Main St. Purchase tickets online www.fortunachamber.com/trainingat Contact us about Group Pricing!
California law requires all employers of five or more employees to provide sexual harassment and abusive conduct prevention training to their employees once every two years and within six months of hire. This training is open to our members and the general public. Call us for a of 10%!
Morgan Dodson, Realtor Morgan has called Humboldt County home since she was a child. After graduating from Ferndale High School, Morgan joined the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. She was on active duty for eight years and did two tours in the Middle East. When her military service was over, she enrolled in an MBA program, graduating from Colorado State University in 2019. After obtaining her degree, she took the plunge and went after her longtime dream of a career in real estate. Morgan joined eXp Realty and now helps clients on the buyer and seller side to assist in their real estate experience. You can visit Morgan at her office at 554 N. Fortuna Blvd. She can be reached at (707) 572-0669 or morgandodson.exprealty.com.
Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel
Wyckoff’s Plumbing took home the trophy for Fortuna’s Best Chili.
Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel
Lithia Motors takes home the Hottest Chili trophy.
Big R’s BBQ takes the Best Beef Chili trophy.
Redwood Prep Charter School takes home Rookie of the Year. Pictured is David Huffman, daughter Rebecca (wearing the dress), Scarlet Stoll, and Wylie Patzlaff.
Best Dressed Team Cornerstone Realty.
Shotz Coffee takes home the award for Best Chili Name.
Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel
Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel
credit:
Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel
Photo Mary Bullwinkel
10CHILI COOK-OFF WINNERS
11 Bear River Casino Resort’s executive chef Charley Lewis holds the trophy for Best Professional Chili. Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel Chili judging is serious business! Pictured left-to-right: Fortuna City Manager Merritt Perry, Humboldt County Sheriff Billy Honsal, AP Property Management Owner Amber Woodward, 2nd District Supervisor Michelle Bushnell, and Fortuna Union High School District Superintendent Glen Senestraro. Photo Credit: Mary BullwinkelBest Team Name winners California Conservation Corps (“California Chili Corps”). Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel Quintal Realty Group takes home Best Decorated Booth. Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel Recology takes home the award for Best Judge’s Bribe which included tri tip, ribs, and sausage with a selection of dipping sauces. Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel Bear River Casino Resort collecting their People’s Choice trophy. Photo Credit: Mary Bullwinkel All Chili Cook-off trophies lovingly restored and engraved by Ferndale Jewelers.
CENTER UPDATE
Nineteen years ago, sixteen seniors gathered at the Presbyterian church in Fortuna to brainstorm about increasing their mem bership. One thing became apparent at that first meeting ...... seniors not only wanted, but urgently needed, a space to gather. They started renting out various rooms and spaces throughout the area, but within a couple of years they outgrew everywhere that Fortuna had to offer. Three years ago, the Gene Lucas Center offered us a space, and we were hopeful that we had found our “forever home.” But, shortly after we moved in and had our first potluck, we knew we would not be able to stay here. We had no kitchen, only one classroom, half of our rented space was located up two flights of stairs, and the downstairs space was not adequate for our needs.
In our monthly tally of activity participants during the month of May 2022, there were more than 994 visits to our activities. Our doors are open daily 9:00-4:00 and staffed by volunteer receptionists. The lobby is often full of members picking out books and puzzles, visiting with friends, or finishing a puzzle together. We have 26 different activities every week and encourage members to continue developing new and interesting activities. There is no payroll here as we are all volunteers. All our activities are led by qualified volunteer leaders. We have developed a wonderful, warm, safe, and inviting organization for all Seniors in our area to use.
The original 16 members have now grown to more than 600 members.
At our first Board Meeting after we moved to the GLC, we faced the fact that we were not going to be able to stay here. We had money in the bank from previous endowments that we had saved and stew arded all this time and voted to use that money to build a place of our own. We wanted a building and an environment that would provide a comfortable place for seniors to come and spend their days.
At this time we have spent over $1.4 million dollars on this project. We purchased the land and pur chased and erected our building. All the work at the site, including the land and building, has been paid for as the projects are completed. We are in need of funds to finish our new Center and are actively fundraising to complete the project.
fortunasenior.org.TheFortuna Senior Center is nearing completion.
Photo Credit: Renee Lindsay
SENIOR
FORTUNA12
It is our goal that when we open our doors at 3811 Rohnerville Rd., it will be “PAID IN FULL!”
Please visit our website for more information at
By Marsha Hays President, Fortuna Senior Center
Photo credit: Melissa Sanderson
Office.Mike’s
Above All Cleaning Services is owned and operated by Jamie Runco-Drechsel. Jamie was raised outside of Humboldt County but now makes her home off Highway 36 with her husband, Justin, and their 7-year-old son, Bode. Justin works for Redwood Empire Roofing and Bode will be attend ing the second grade at Hydesville School in the fall. Jamie previously worked for Hydesville School, but when Covid-19 struck, her position was eliminat ed. Around the same time, her church, Hydesville Community Church, was in need of a janitor. That opportunity was the catalyst to starting her own cleaning business. Above All Cleaning Services is a company that cleans residential, office, and com mercial spaces, plus post-construction clean up, event clean up, power washing services, window and gutter cleaning, and house keeping services for vacation rentals.
Brake and Front End’s June 14 ribbon cutting celebration and open house.
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Ribbon Cuttings
Above All Cleaning Services’ Jamie Runco-Drechsel (holding scissors) seen surrounded by friends, family, and community members at her ribbon cutting at the Fortuna Chamber
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“We don’t cut corners. We clean ’em,” is Jamie’s slogan. No job is too small or too large and they travel from McKinleyville to Benbow and everywhere in between. Call them today and get that “dream clean” you’ve been lookingAbovefor!All Cleaning Services can be reached online at https://www. aboveallcleaning.net or by calling (707) 617-0904.
Mike’s Brake and Front End opened its doors in June, with a goal of groundbreaking customer service and providing the best services possible in Humboldt County. They want to be the gold standard; creating a space where people can trust their services and expertise all while being assured that with their diligence, you’ll be treated like family. Owner Mike Turner has been involved in the automotive industry since 1994. With a great team by his side, Mike’s Brake and Front End is here to serve the community with the best quality services available including oil changes, brakes, suspension and steering, tune-ups, headlight polish, minor engine repair, and drive train repair. With a location right next to Paul’s Live From New York, they are
Powerhouse Garage is owned by Loren & Becky Skavdal, with Loren running the shop and Becky managing the office. Loren and Becky have a long family history in Humboldt County with their two children representing the seventh generation here. Loren first learned about customer service from his grandparents Ellis & Genevieve Hemenway while helping to crack crab at Botchie’s Crab Stand in Fields Landing. His easy going and detailed explanation of his approach to your vehicle’s care and repair needs likely started by listening to his Grandpa engage with his customers waiting in the long line for crab. Loren’s experience is deep and wide ranging and while his focus is on Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Cummins, and Jeep products, his capabilities don’t stop there. With experience in fabrication shops, aftermarket accessory shops, import and domestic, a wide variety of projects reflecting that experience can be seen in the parking lot at any time. Since opening in May, he has been busy on trucks of all makes (diesel and gas), a range of automobiles, and even several classics. The high-tech office keeps track of your vehicle needs, keeps you informed of appointments, status and progress via text, and links to all local supply houses for rapid parts delivery and quick price comparisons. Loren attended Humboldt State university and played soccer for the Lumberjacks, which is where he met his future wife Becky who was playing for the women’s team at San Francisco State. Loren left Humboldt to go to Wyotech in Sacramento for his automotive degree. He gained experience working in multiple private shops in Sonoma County including Nisstech (Santa Rosa) and Finchers (Healdsburg) before returning to Humboldt County eight years ago. He joined Lithia Motors, working his way up to Chrysler Master Mechanic status within three years, positioning him as the lead mechanic and foreman.
Powerhouse Garage
Powerhouse Garage opened May 1st in the former Murray Motors building at 459 S. Fortuna Blvd and is easy to find across from Westside Pizza on the Boulevard. This family owned and operated shop represents a clean, state of the art, professional, family oriented, and hands on approach to meeting your truck and auto care needs.
The Skavdals are Fortuna residents, their chil dren go to school here, and are playing on local sports teams. As a new business, Loren and Becky plan to be engaged in the local community for years to come. Expect to see Loren and Becky and Powerhouse Garage engaged across the community over time. They are very excited to be here.
Have a question, or a repair need, or just want to stop by and check out the shop? You are welcome anytime at Powerhouse! Visit them at 459 S. Fortuna Blvd. They can be reached at (707) 682-6198.
Continued from previous page Ribbon Cuttings
Mike’s Brake and Front End is located at 103 12th Street and can be reached at (707)Looking617-2004.forsomething differ ent for your truck and auto care needs? Well, look no more as Powerhouse Garage is now open for business in Fortuna and they’re looking to smash the automotive industry stereotypes.
14 able to offer a special deal - get your car serviced and receive a $5.00 coupon off your lunch next door while you wait.
Becky graduated from San Francisco State, work ing her way through college as a Store Manager for American Eagle in San Francisco and later in Santa Rosa. After moving to Humboldt County with Loren she was Assistant Store Manager for Pacific Outfitters in Eureka, a perfect fit for Loren and Becky’s lifestyle of all things outdoors in Humboldt.
Most recently Becky was at home managing the active household with their two children (a daugh ter, 6, and a son, 4). Becky says she is excited to be back in the office having adult conversations! Her good nature and enthusiasm for the business and customers comes through in every interaction.
In July 2022, Harry Hardin and partner Shannon Burns opened the doors of White Circle Commerce, LLC., located at 591 Main Street, Suite D. They provide services such as vehicle registrations (personal and commercial) for cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, and diesel/ trailers as well as vin verification, title transfers, junk slips, and salvage titles. Save yourself time by not standing in line at the DMV! They will also be a payment center for paying your utility bills, process wire transfers, provide notary services, as well as commercial and residen tial property management services. Small bookkeep ing services will soon be available.
You can reach White Circle Commerce at (707) 726-8500 or by email at shannonwhitecircle@gmail. com. Since 1931 (707) 725-3316
Shannon Burns moved to Humboldt County a year ago from Ventura County in Southern California to work with Harry at Eel River Transportation and Salvage. Her background is in project management and administration. She previously worked for a workers’ compensation underwriting company, a team of executives, and an IT team to be the first company to enable companies to bind a workers’ comp policy under $25,000 online. Unfortunately, after 9/11, they closed due to the structure of insur ance changing so dramatically after the tragedy. She next went on to work for Amgen, a pharmaceutical company, managing multiple onsite projects that included moving laboratories and departments of upwards of 100-300 people to different locations on the campus. When asked what her favorite thing about living here is, she replied, “I have to say that the area is absolutely gorgeous and I love the small town feel where everyone knows each other and seems to really enjoy living life, unlike the fast paced way of Southern California.”
FAMILY SHOES & REPAIR The store that still measures your feet Open Tue-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 9am-5pm New Balance • Men’s and Women’s • When it comes to running, New Balance is the performance expert. Available at Strehl’s 12th & Main, Fortuna • 707.725.2610 Marilyn Strehl, C.PED Certified Pedorthic ID #2262
Many will recognize the name Harry Hardin. Harry has been a local business owner (and longtime Chamber supporter and recipient of the Chamber’s 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award) for more than 30 years providing many vital services to Humboldt County. He owned and operated a refuse and transfer station called Eel River Disposal for many years before selling it to Recology. He then moved on to open Eel River Transportation and Salvage, a metal scrap yard/recycling company receiving cars, motor homes, trailers, and construction and demolition debris.
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info@harbersins.com21012thSt.FortunaCA95540 White Circle Commerce, LLC.
The Association offers 24/7 care and support through their helpline (800-272-3900). All calls are answered by dementia care specialists and master’s-level clinicians. According to Community Engagement Manager Kim Coehlo, many of these calls come in around 2:00 am, when family mem bers feel the most alone and discouraged. “They Alzheimer’s Walk 2019.
are so relieved to find out that others are going through similar situations and that there is help available.” Other support includes an online com munity (alzconnected.org) where individuals living with early-stage Alzheimer’s can share questions, experiences, and practical tips via message boards, and TrialMatch® that connects individuals living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, and healthy volun teers to clinical trials that may advance Alzheimer’s research. The free, easy-to-use service allows you to see which studies are a good fit for you or a family member. You can search for studies, receive email notifications about new opportunities, and connect with research teams.
Held annually, the Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s occurs nationwide in over 600 com munities with over 51,000 teams. Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Humboldt County will host a Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, October 8, at the Adorni Center in Eureka. According to Coelho, “Participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s helps to take away the stigma from this disease, it helps start the conversation.” Families that are bat tling this disease need to know that they are not alone, that there is local support provided by the Alzheimer’s Association, Humboldt Senior Resource Center Alzheimer’s Resource Center, Redwood Caregiver Resource Center, Area 1 Agency on Aging, and Adult Day Health Care of Mad River. According to Coelho, helping locally will have a global impact.
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“With one in three seniors being diagnosed with a dementia related illness, this is a disease that is going to impact everyone. Raising funds will help us identify, slow down, and ultimately prevent this devastating disease. If you look at the millions of re search dollars that have been spent on cancer, heart disease, HIV, stroke, you will see a dramatic decrease in deaths from these diseases which is wonder ful. We can do the same for Alzheimer’s Disease, we just need the research dollars to fund the research proposals.” For more information, visit www.alz.org or call (707) 832-4577 ext 1240 to reach Kim Coelho. California Conservation Corps Most folks around town have probably never heard of the California Conservation Corps. They might have seen their trucks around town, or
The Alzheimer’s Association was founded in 1980 by a group of family caregivers and individuals who recognized the need for an organization that would unite caregivers, provide support to those facing Alzheimer’s, and advance research into the disease. Jerome H. Stone, a true visionary in the Alzheimer’s movement, was the founding presi dent. When his wife, Evelyn, was diagnosed with the disease in 1970, information about Alzheimer’s, even among the medical community, was limited. With drive and determination, Mr. Stone took a disease that was cloaked in silence and helped create a global conversation. Today, the Association reaches millions of people affected by Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. The Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Their vision is to see a world free from Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. According to the Association, more than 3,673 people in Humboldt and Del Norte counties suffer from the fatal disease, a number projected to rise to more than 5,000 in the next decade. More than six million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, and over 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for someone living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.
Photo credit: Alzheimer’s Association
Member Spotlights
Alzheimer’s Association
17 helping at community events, without really know ing what they do. We reached out to Tina Taylor, Administrative Officer II – Fortuna District, and Raquel Ortega, District Director-Fortuna District, for their unique perspective on this amazing organiza tion.The California Conservation Corps is a department within the California Natural Resources Agency. They are the oldest and largest conservation corps in the nation. Their program provides young adults 18 – 25 years old a year of paid service to the State of California. During their year of service, Corpsmembers work on environmental projects and respond to natural and man-made disasters. Through this work, they gain skills and experience that lead to meaningful careers. Their motto is “Hard Work, Low Pay, Miserable Conditions and More!” Nearly everyone starting out will face hard work, likely low pay, and probably some miserable conditions. “We offer all of that and more with educational opportunities, on the job training, and the chance to work with people from all over the state that they may not have had the chance to meet otherwise; all while working towards scholarships to further their education! It is through this program that Corpsmembers develop their character, credentials, and commitment.”
Governor Jerry Brown established the CCC in 1976, modeled after the original Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s. More than 120,000 young adults have served in the Corps over its 40+ year history. While this is a statewide program, the CCC has a long history of serving the North Coast. Originally landing in Humboldt at the Humboldt Fire Center (now Cal Fire’s High Rock camp), the CCC moved to Fortuna in the mid-90s setting up shop on Newburg. Soon after, thanks to community support, the Fortuna Center was built and is currently the northernmost residential CCC campus in the state. The CCC Fortuna Campus supports five crews with dormitories, classrooms, dining hall, and a workshop. Their crews work on projects from the Oregon border south to the Leggett area, and from the Pacific Ocean east half way to Redding!
The CCC program runs year-round and makes for some very wet and cold workdays on the North Coast. Crews engage in salmon habitat restoration projects, trail building, invasive plant removal, fuel reduction, and more. On campus they have a culinary arts crew that learns food safety standards, gardening, and prepares all the meals for crews on a dailyThebasis.CCC is also an emergency response organiza tion. CCC Fortuna Crews have responded to floods, oil spills, earthquakes, hurricane relief efforts (out of state), and wildfires — both with camp support crews to run logistics and wildland firefighter crews. According to Tina, “the CCC Fortuna Center is grateful to have community partners who support our mission. Our crews work on fee for service con tracts to help support our program continuity. This also provides our Corpsmembers with insight to dif ferent career paths and work experience with many partners.” Tina said partnerships include, but are not limited to: Humboldt County, City of Fortuna, City of Eureka, City of Arcata, Eel River Watershed Improvement Group, Briceland Community Services District, CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife, Caltrans, Cal Fire, BLM, USFWS, CA State Parks, NOAA Veterans Fisheries Program, Cal Trout, Mendocino Land Trust,
Photo credit: California Conservation Corps
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What life is like for a Corpsmember: Crews work full work weeks. Corpsmembers have continuing education in the evenings, internal com munity meetings weekly, and recreational/volunteer events on the weekends. They encourage volunteer ism and community engagement of all members and are proud to be part of many community events both in Fortuna and the surrounding area.
Fortuna Grocery Outlet
The Fortuna Concert Series is an eight-perfor mance concert series held on the second Saturday of the month at the Fortuna Monday Club.
Learn more at fortunaconcertseries.com.
Fortuna Concert Series
18 Continued from previous page Chamber Member Spotlights and National Park Service.
Beginning in March of 2023, the Concert Series season will run from March 11 through October 14. With community business and private support, we keep our ticket prices as low as possible at $10 each or season tickets at $60 for eight performances. Since its inception, the Series has presented more than 230 concerts featuring not only many talented local groups and individuals but also nationally and internationally known performers. Diversified pro gramming including classical, jazz, folk, ethnic, vocal, instrumental - something for everyone - has been its formula for success. In addition, we support music programs at local schools with mini-grants and provide a scholarship to a Fortuna High graduating senior enrolled in music classes.
To learn more, please visit their website at ccc. ca.gov. There you’ll find photos, videos, corpsmem ber stories, and links to their social media accounts on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also call the Fortuna Center at (707) 725-5106.
Submitted by Darleene Sampson on behalf of the Fortuna Concert Series.
In the summer of 2015, Seth and Stefanie McGrath learned a Grocery Outlet store was going to be built in Fortuna. At the time, they were the operators of one of the Fresno locations. They decided to take a trip to visit the area and learn about the community. Their wish list for a community to live in included one they felt comfortable in, was a place their kids would enjoy, and where a family business would suc ceed. Their trip consisted of two locations - Napa and Fortuna. Fortuna was the second stop on their
Rabbi Naomi Steinberg is the person who had the idea to create a concert series in Fortuna and made it happen over 30 years ago. Here is an excerpt from an interview with Rabbi Steinberg: “I got the idea because I had a desire to hear incredible music with out having to drive a long way to get it. At one point I had a reason to find a venue for another event… [and] I discovered the Fortuna Monday Club. I real ized it was a charming but under-utilized venue and perfect for music! I talked to my friends and local businesses regarding the idea of creating a music se ries in Fortuna that would serve to enrich the local area. We created a volunteer steering committee and developed our plan. Our committee consisted of Clif Clendenen, president, David Demant, Vice President, Naomi Steinberg, Secretary, and Tom Clapp, Treasurer. Other committee members includ ed Bill Swackhammer, Carol Boomer, Ann Lovick, Ruth McClimon, Henry and Clara Bender, Chris and Rick Johnson, Prill Devin, and Harriet Goble. The first Fortuna Concert Series performance opened on Sept. 7, Currently,1991.”that torch is being carried by a very committed and fun group of people including Simon Rios (president), Sharon Holt (secretary), Don Bicknell (treasurer), Mike McClimon (booking agent), Darleene Sampson (publicity), and Marsha Hayes (ticket sales). We are always looking for like minded, music loving souls to join our team and keep Fortuna musical! We have tremendous joy in making these concerts available! The FCS is an all volunteer, non-profit organization that promotes community through rich musical experiences. This Concert Series, as well as the community support of local businesses and private contribu tors, has made Fortuna special for more than 30 years and gives a sparkle to the life of everyone who chooses to participate; whether that be as an artist, music appreciator, benefactor or facilitator.
Fred Tempas of Chamber Players of the Redwoods (CPR) presented Corinne Stanfield, then president of Fortuna Concert Series, with the Floyd A. Glende award in 2013. This award is named after former Cal Poly Humboldt Professor of Music Floyd A. Glende (‘53-’57). Credit: Fortuna Concert Series.
Being a Grocery Outlet owner is a unique experi ence. All of the sites and locations are procured and selected by Grocery Outlet, Inc. “These locations are posted for aspiring and/or current owner oper ators to apply. Each potential applicant is required to submit a detailed business plan for the location. These plans are reviewed by executives who make the decision of which operator (or aspiring opera tor) will best fit the location based on the plan sub mitted,” said Seth. (The McGraths became aspiring owner operators in 2013.) Once a store is ready to open, the operator is given the keys and the free dom to run their location. The operator can run the store in the way that they feel is the best fit for their community. Every owner operator is different and that is what made the business model so attractive to the McGraths.
Northern CommunityCaliforniaBloodBank
“You are able to do what you know will serve your customers the best and [are] given the freedom to do just that. That being said, how one is involved in their specific community is their choice… any money that is given for donations, sponsorships, etc., is funded by the owner opera tor.” The McGraths are 100% committed to doing everything they can to support the community that supports them. “It’s about giving back and paying it forward,” said Seth. While the list of programs and organizations that Fortuna Grocery Outlet has supported over the years is extensive, Seth gave us some examples. They include 4-H livestock auctions, service club events, school sports, church events, community events, and scholarships.
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The McGrath family Photo credit: Seth
Started in Eureka in 1951 by a group of local physicians who recognized the need for a safe way to collect and store blood, the Northern California Community Blood Bank (nccbb.org) truly is a community institution. “When we call ourselves a community organization, we really mean it. When you donate blood with us, your donation serves our community. Your donation is sent first to local hospitals and patients. Your gift helps heal our neighbors, friends, and families,” said Blood Bank CEO Kate Witthaus. The impacts of the COVID crisis have been significant, but with the hard work of their staff and dedication of their donors, NCCBB is looking forward to emerging from the pandemic ready to meet the community wherever they are and deliver the gift of life to local patients. With a staff of 50, a group of dedicated volunteers, and nearly 18,000 blood donors, NCCBB carries out their mission to serve the community while meeting and exceeding state, federal, and international standards. Blood Bank staff includes high school students working McGrath
19 trip and, after seeing the community, they knew they didn’t want to leave. When the Fortuna loca tion became available, they applied for the location and were selected in November 2015. They began the process of selling their Fresno location to pur chase the Fortuna location and everything that goes into moving your family to a new town. Their Fresno location was transitioned in January 2016 and they made the move to Fortuna to begin building their team that would help set up the store. Their grand opening was on March 3, 2016.
The McGraths have three children. Spencer (a Fortuna High grad) is in his sophomore year at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Trent is a junior at Fortuna High, and Hayden is a freshman at Fortuna High. All three work at the store and partici pate in the family business. They currently have 38 employees. Prior to owning a Grocery Outlet store, Seth was with Raley’s Supermarkets for 18 years and Stefanie was a stay-at-home mom. Seth previously served as a board member and Chair of the Board on the Fortuna Chamber board of directors. In 2016, Fortuna Grocery Outlet was selected as New Business of the Year and received the Business of the Year award in 2018. Grocery Outlet is located in Strongs Creek Plaza (1085 S. Fortuna Blvd.) and can be reached at (707) 725-7010.
Photo credit: NCCBB
There is no substitute for human blood. The blood supply is a perishable commodity, and must be replaced regularly. Members of our community make the Blood Bank’s mission attainable by donating regularly throughout the year, to help maintain an adequate, consistent blood supply that will help through times of crisis or disaster. All blood components have a limited lifespan and can’t be stored indefinitely, so donate regularly throughout the year. Your donation could be the one to save a life when it’sWithoutneeded.the generosity of community members from all over Humboldt and Del Norte Counties, NCCBB would not be able to meet the needs of local patients. Save a life. Give blood. You can contact them at nccbb.org or (707) 443-8004.
The Pony Keg
The Pony Keg is a mobile bartending service in Humboldt County. Once a horse trailer, it has been lovingly restored and converted into a “bar on wheels” for any event. The Pony Keg does all the work for you. They provide the bar, alcohol recommendations, bartending staff, 4-tap draft system, glassware, decor, accessories, and all the miscellaneous equipment you never thought of. Guests at your event can relax on wooden benches, boho blankets, or sit on a set of recycled pillow-topped beer kegs. They also offer outdoor games such as Jenga and Cornhole. Not looking for alcoholic drinks? Not a problem. They can cater your drink menu to offer non-alcoholic beverages.
The Pony Keg can operate off grid for any celebration you can think of! You can usually catch them at weddings and community events all over Humboldt. They love to support local nonprofit fundraising events serving local beer, wine, and spirits. You can also find them at farmers’ markets and craft fairs selling local coffee, tea blends, and mocktails made from locally sourced ingredients.
To book The Pony Keg for your next event, you can reach Hailee and Kara at (707) 574-8875, by email at ponykegmobilebar@gmail.com, or by visiting their website at theponykegmobilebar.com.
their first job, Clinical Laboratory Scientists, friendly Donor Care Specialists performing phlebotomy, and a behind-the-scenes team keeping everything running smoothly. The Blood Bank is supported by a volunteer board of directors whose goal is to maintain a local focus, meet patient needs with an excellent standard of care, and maintain financial stability.Tomaintain a safe blood supply, only volunteer donors are accepted at NCCBB. In some regions, there are facilities that pay donors for plasma donation, but the products collected at those facilities can only be used for the manufacture of pharmaceutical products. Blood products collected at NCCBB are used for transfusion directly to patients.
Member
The Covid-19 lockdown of 2020 was a time for reflection for many businesses. The Pony Keg was no exception. It gave them time to reflect on what, and who, they missed. They started the Pony Keg Mobile Bar to bring people together again. Humboldt County is teeming with open spaces, home grown products, and some of the best locally crafted beer, spirits, and wine.
Chamber Spotlights
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Photo credit: The Pony KeG
The naClubKiwanisofFortu-isgearing up for their Quarter Mania fundraiser on September 17 at the River Lodge Conference Center. Social hour starts at 5:30 pm with the auction starting at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $20 (in advance or $25 at the door) and include admission to the event, an auction paddle, door prize entry, and dinner (featuring a baked potato bar and salad). Pick up your tickets at Green’s Pharmacy on Main Street or Scrapper’s Edge in Eureka.
21 support your local kiwanis RedwoodsclubRural Health Center
Kiwanis Club volunteers at the pancake breakfast during AutoXpo weekend. ty at their 25th Annual Business Women’s Luncheon. The luncheon will take place at 12:00 pm at the River Lodge Conference Center. For more information on the luncheon, please contact Janice Simmons at (707) 496-4741.
Remodels Dental Office
Also, on October 20, the Kiwanis Club of Fortuna will honor two women from the business communiRedwoods Rural Health Center just finished remodeling their dental office located at 101 West Coast Road in Redway. The dental office officially re-opened on August 15. For more information, please call (707) 923-4313. They are open M-F, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm (closed 12:30-1:30 pm for lunch).
T22he rain on that day didn't dampen the spirits of the artists that came out to participate in the second Pastels in the Park put on by the Parks & Rec department on June 10. Pastels in the Park Second Place winner Michel Felix. photo credit: caMeron Mull Third Place winners Alejandro Jr. & David. photo credit: caMeron Mull First Place winner Chandler Barisdale. Humboldt’s Oldest - Family Owned-Since 1966! Looking for a new home in Humboldt County, or are you ready to sell? Visit our website and search for your dream home for free! 910 S Fortuna Blvd., Fortuna SixRiversRealEstate.com | 707-725-9376 Debi DRE#00604073Broker/OwnerAugust498-6439 John Egan Realtor DRE#01438132Associate499-5185 Katy Lund RealtorDRE#02035968Associate672-5707 Wendy Medders BrokerDRE#01888500Associate599-6407 Tami Erickson RealtorDRE#01227851Associate496-9376 THANK YOU COURTESY OF FORTUNA DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION For more info go to fortunadowntown.org for Shopping Locally in Downtown Fortuna COMING EVENTS Apple DowntownHarvestStreet Fair Oct1st
23 EVERY PLAN, EVERY CUSTOMER, YOUR RATE PLAN PRICEISPROTECTED Things we want you to know: Price protection applies to the monthly recurring charge (MRC) for service plans existing as of May 6, 2022. MRCs are price protected through at least December 31, 2023. ©2022 UScellular 1095 Fortuna Blvd., Fortuna, CA 95540 707-726-7782 0594_0622 / 220728-POSTFLY-1097 1027 Main Street, Fortuna • redwoodappliancecenter.com Sales 725-7918 • Service 725-7919 Quality Name Brands You Can Trust!1 Guaranteed Low Prices Every Day!2 Service After The Sale!3 S ave 3 W ays Locally Owned and Operated
