As we transition into the beautiful fall season here at the Channel Islands Harbor, I’m happy to share some updates and upcoming events that promise to make October a month filled with fun and excitement.

Welcome Ernie Moore, Deputy Director

I am happy to announce the addition of Ernie Moore to our team as the new Deputy Director of the Ventura County Harbor Department. Ernie brings a wealth of experience and knowledge, and his passion for preserving and enhancing our harbor aligns perfectly with our mission.

In his 30-year career with the County of Ventura, Ernie has served at the Auditor-Controller’s Office, Library Services Agency, Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office, the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, and six years previously (2015-2021) with the Harbor Department. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from CSU, Northridge and has more than 25 years of budgeting and supervisory experience in his various capacities. Ernie started in mid-September and will be a tremendous asset to our department moving forward.

Harbor Businesses Win Top Honors

I was pleased to read the VC Reporter’s 38^th Annual Best of Ventura County edition this week. Five of our Harbor businesses were recognized by readers, who took a poll to rate their top choices to patronize in more than 100 categories. The Channel Islands Maritime Museum, Channel Islands Yacht Club, Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club, Sea Fresh, and Smoking Jay’s Hot Chicken & BBQ were all rated as top businesses in Ventura County. Congratulations to all the Harbor businesses who were recognized!

Revving Up for Car Shows

This October, we have not one, but two great car shows lined up for all the automobile enthusiasts in our community. First up is the 32^nd Annual Central Coast British Car Club Show, taking place on Sunday, October 1^st.  There will be more than 125 cars on display, along with food trucks, vendors, and live music. The following weekend on Sunday, October 8^th, our second car show, Ponies by the Sea, rolls into the Harbor. This car show will feature Ford Mustangs from all eras. Both car shows are free to attend and will be located at Harbor View Park, off Harbor Blvd.

Parade of Frights Returns

Get ready for a spooktacular event as the “Parade of Frights” returns to the Channel Islands Harbor on Saturday, October 28^th. This family-friendly extravaganza will feature a boat parade, costume parade, haunted house, trunk-or-treat event, scavenger hunt, a Parade of Frights marketplace, live music, and more. This event is a perfect opportunity for families and friends to come together, celebrate the season, and enjoy some safe and spooky fun.

For boaters interested in participating in the parade, please download a registration form here.

Playground Outreach Update

The Harbor Department is committed to improving and expanding recreational facilities in our harbor area, especially for young families. This is why we plan to build a playground at Harbor View Park. Last month my staff and I displayed the concept of the playground at a Sunday Farmers’ Market and received a lot of positive feedback, thoughtful input, and also heard from a few people who weren’t interested in the project. Some of the feedback we received included more shade sails, additional slides and swings, a water faucet, and the desire to add inclusive features into the playground design. We are evaluating the feedback and will amend our playground concept and present it to the Board of Supervisors before the end of the year.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement in making the Channel Islands Harbor a vibrant and welcoming place. We look forward to seeing you at the upcoming events and working together to make our harbor an even better place to live and visit.

Michael Tripp, Director
Ventura County Harbor Department