January 2023 Director’s Message

clear day at the harbor

Happy New Year! This time of the year is all about dreaming big, setting goals, and achieving what you set out to do. At the Channel Islands Harbor, there is plenty of achievements to celebrate and even more dreams and goals to improve this beautiful place. I cannot focus on achievements without highlighting the Ventura…

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2020 Parade of Lights Canceled Due to COVID Concerns

Brightly light and playfully themed boats on Parade in the harbor

The annual Parade of Lights at the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard has been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns for spectators, the Ventura County Harbor Department announced. The 2020 Parade of Lights, which has taken place for 54-years, had been scheduled for Saturday, December 12.  The only time the event has been…

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Harbor Beaches Will Be Closed July 3-6

Kiddie Beach, sans kids

Ventura County beaches – including Hollywood, Silver Strand, and Kiddie beaches – will be closed this holiday weekend from 5 a.m. on July 3 through July 6 at 5 a.m. to prevent crowding that results in the spread of COVID-19. To support this effort parking lots and restrooms will also be closed. “COVID-19 cases and…

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February 2020 Director’s Message: Event Updates

Purple and blue light spills from fireworks over Channel Islands Harbor

February – the month for sweethearts.  I have found that a good partner always makes life easier, which is definitely true in my case.  I hope you have a great Valentine’s Day.  As I write this we are in the midst of some significant tidal activity, which makes for high quality surfing on our local…

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Harbor Encourages 4th of July Visitors to Throw Away Trash

Closeup of a discarded American flag and other 4th of July trash

Harbor 4th of July visitors will have a variety of options to make sure they can throw away their trash during the event and before they leave. Measures are being implemented by the Ventura County Harbor Department’s maintenance team to help minimize waste being left behind after the annual 4th of July event, Fireworks by…

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Director’s Message: Opportunity for Community Support

A dock with it's locker, hoses and cleats

A little over two months at the helm, and I find there is still a lot to learn.  I continue to spend a good deal of time meeting with business owners, residents and government peers to discuss ways to better the Harbor.  If nothing else, I trust it demonstrates that we are entering a new…

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June 2023 Director’s Message

Sunset view of Channel Islands Harbor, slight chop on the water

As we transition into the vibrant month of June, I am delighted to share with you an exciting lineup of events and activities that are coming to the harbor this summer. Get ready to soak up the sun, enjoy the breeze, and create unforgettable memories with families and friends. We kick off the summer with…

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July 2022 Director’s Message

An American flag is pictured, harbor in the background

The Fourth of July is almost here, and we are looking forward to seeing lots of visitors at the Channel Islands Harbor. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate our great nation with family and friends on the waterfront. While there will not be a fireworks show at the Harbor this year, there will be plenty…

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March 2021 Director’s Message

Smiling people paddling kayaks in Channel Islands Harbor

It sure feels like summer is right around the corner, and there is significant positive news regarding COVID-19, so hopefully things will get more normal here on the waterfront.  I believe that life will never be the same, as thorough use of hand sanitizer, possible continued use of some mask wearing and some reasonable distancing…

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Director’s Message: Planning and Development Updates

A rowing team paddles in the harbor

The Fourth of July is in our rearview mirror and we are squarely in summer.  My first Fourth at my new Harbor home was a wonderful celebration, and it underscores the fact that we live in one of the best areas in the best country in the world.  While the street parade, boat parade, farmer’s…

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