One person has died after an explosion caused by fireworks at a Simi Valley home Thursday

Andrew Gillies

SIMI VALLEY, Calif. – Fireworks sparked an explosion that killed one person and ignited a house fire Thursday afternoon in the 1600 block of Edmund Street in Simi Valley, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.

Firefighters responded to multiple 911 calls reporting an explosion around 11:48 a.m. Crews arrived to find a structure fire, with flames spreading from the garage into the attic and main areas of the home. The fire was fully knocked down by 12:42 p.m.

The Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office is working to identify the deceased and notify next of kin.

According to the Simi Valley Police Department, fireworks caused the explosion. Police have asked the public to avoid the area while crews continue overhaul operations.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Click here to follow the original article.

Tri-Counties Warn Central Coast to Prepare for Wildfire Smoke Impacts this Summer

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from Santa Barbara County, San Luis Obispo County, and Ventura County Air Pollution Control Districts regarding air quality warnings this wildfire season.

TRI-COUNTIES, Calif. — The Santa Barbara County, San Luis Obispo County, and Ventura County Air Pollution Control Districts (APCD) encourage residents to prepare for potential poor air quality caused by smoke now that the area has entered peak wildfire season.

Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles known as particulate matter that can travel hundreds of miles. These particles harm the lungs and heart and can cause coughing, wheezing, breathing difficulty, chest pain, nausea and, in severe instances, premature mortality. People with heart or lung disease, older adults, kids, and pregnant women are especially sensitive.

The best protection against wildfire smoke is to stay indoors as much as possible when smoke is present. Take these steps to stay safe:

Know local air quality conditions.

For current air quality conditions and dailyforecasts, visit and bookmark your air district’s website.

San Luis Obispo County APCD — www.slocleanair.org/air-quality/air-quality-forecast

Santa Barbara County APCD — www.OurAir.org/todays-air-quality/

Ventura County APCD — www.vcapcd.org

You can also view current conditions – including from PurpleAir sensors at the neighborhood level — on the AirNow Fire & Smoke map, available in English and Spanish: fire.airnow.gov.

Sign up for Air Quality Alerts and notifications through your air district:

Santa Barbara County APCD — OurAir.org/subscribe (Available via text and/or email, in English and Spanish)

San Luis Obispo County APCD — SLOCleanAir.org/air-quality-alerts

Ventura County APCD — vcapcd.org/#enews (Ventura County Farmworker Wildfire Smoke Text Alerts — Sign up by texting “SMOKE” for English or “HUMO” for Spanish, Mixteco and Zapoteco messages to 855-522-0034.)

2. Smoke-proof your home.

Create a clean air room by putting a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) purifier in a room where you spend a lot of time, like a bedroom. These can reduce particulate matter indoors by 90%.

 They can be purchased at hardware stores or online retailers.

Make sure that the device doesn’t create ozone. Find a list of safe options at https://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/aircleaners/certified.htm.

Choose a make and model suited for your room size. HEPA purifiers for an average-sized bedroom cost about $75.

Replace the filter as directed in the owner’s manual. Filters need to be replaced more frequently if used during a wildfire.

Assembling a do-it-yourself version of an air purifier for a clean air room can be a more affordable option, with materials costing about $40. This DIY version has been shown to reduce harmful particulate matter indoors similarly to a HEPA purifier:

Use tape to attach a 20-by-20-inch MERV 13 air filter — like what you would use for an HVAC system — to the back of a 20-by-20-inch box fan. Attaching to the back of the fan creates a better seal. Use a 2012 or newer fan due to safety features.

Check the direction of the air flow, which is marked on the side of the filter.

As needed, disassemble the fan to wipe away dirt.

Don’t leave the device unattended.

Turn off the fan while sleeping.

Use the device modified in this way only as an air cleaner, not as a fan to cool your home.

Check windows and doors to ensure the room is sealed tightly so smoke does not get pulled inside. Weatherize your home in preparation for wildfires by sealing leaky windows and doors.

Upgrade the filter in your HVAC system to a filter rated MERV 13. Check and replace that filter regularly.

Avoid activities that create smoke or pollution indoors, such as smoking, using your wood-burning fireplace, and burning incense or candles. Use your range hood while cooking.

People with health conditions should talk to their doctor to develop a personal plan for wildfire smoke.

3. Find a Clean Air Center near you if you can’t create a clean air room at home.

Find the one closest to you at https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/cleanaircenters.

Traducción en español:

La area de los TRES CONDADOS, Calif. – Los Distritos de Control de la Contaminación del Aire (APCD) del Condado de Santa Bárbara, el Condado de San Luis Obispo y el Condado de Ventura alientan a los residentes a prepararse para la posible baja calidad del aire causada por el humo, ahora que el área ha entrado en la temporada alta de incendios forestales.

El humo y las cenizas de los incendios forestales contienen partículas muy pequeñas, conocidas como material particulado, que pueden viajar cientos de kilómetros. Estas partículas dañan los pulmones y el corazón y pueden causar tos, sibilancias, dificultad para respirar, dolor en el pecho, náuseas y, en casos graves, muerte prematura. Las personas con enfermedades cardíacas o pulmonares, los adultos mayores, los niños y las mujeres embarazadas son especialmente sensibles.

La mejor protección contra el humo de los incendios forestales es permanecer en casa el mayortiempo posible cuando haya humo. Tome estas medidas para mantenerse seguro:

Conozca las condiciones de calidad del aire locales

Para conocer las condiciones actuales de la calidad del aire y los pronósticos diarios, visite y marque como favorito la página de internet de su distrito.

APCD del condado de San Luis Obispo — www.slocleanair.org/air-quality/airquality-forecast

APCD del condado de Santa Bárbara — https://www.ourair.org/pronosticos-ycalidad-del-aire-de-hoy/?lang=es

APCD del condado de Ventura — www.vcapcd.org

También puede ver las condiciones actuales, incluiendo la de los sensores PurpleAir a nivel de vecindario, en el mapa de incendios y humo de AirNow, disponible en inglés y español: fire.airnow.gov.

Regístrese para recibir alertas y notificaciones sobre la calidad del aire a través de su distrito aéreo:

APCD del condado de Santa Bárbara — https://www.ourair.org/subscribase-a-lasalertas-noticias-y-avisos/?lang=es (Disponible vía mensaje de texto y/o correo electrónico, en inglés y español.)

APCD del condado de San Luis Obispo — SLOCleanAir.org/air-quality-alerts

APCD del condado de Ventura — vcapcd.org/#enews (Alertas de texto sobre el humo de los incendios forestales para trabajadores agrícolas del condado de Ventura: regístrese enviando un mensaje de texto con la palabra “SMOKE” para mensajes en inglés o “HUMO” para mensajes en español, mixteco y zapoteco al 855-522-0034.)

2. Proteja su hogar del humo.

Cree una habitación con aire limpio instalando un purificador HEPA (filtro de aire de partículas de alta eficiencia) en una habitación donde pase mucho tiempo, como un dormitorio. Estos filtros pueden reducir las partículas en el interior hasta un 90%.

Se pueden comprar en ferreterías o por internet.

Asegúrese de que el dispositivo no genere ozono. Encuentre una lista de opciones seguras en: https://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/aircleaners/certified.htm.

Elija una marca y un modelo adecuado para el tamaño de su habitación. Los purificadores HEPA para una habitación de tamaño promedio cuestan aproximadamente $75

Reemplace el filtro según las instrucciones del manual del usuario. Los filtros deben reemplazarse con mayor frecuencia si se utilizan durante un incendio forestal.

Armar un purificador de aire casero para una habitación con aire limpio puede ser una opción más económica, con materiales que cuestan alrededor de $40. Se ha demostrado que esta versión casera reduce las partículas nocivas en interiores de forma similar a un purificador HEPA.

Use cinta adhesiva para fijar un filtro de aire MERV 13 de 50 x 50 cm (similar al que se usa en un sistema de climatización) a la parte trasera de un ventilador de caja de 50 x 50 cm. Fijarlo a la parte trasera del ventilador crea un mejor sellado. Use un ventilador del año 2012 o posterior por sus características de seguridad.

Verifique la dirección del flujo de aire, que está marcada en el costado del filtro.

Según sea necesario, desmonte el ventilador para limpiar la suciedad.

No deje el dispositivo desatendido.

Apage el ventilador mientras duerma

Utilice el dispositivo modificado de esta manera sólo como purificador de aire, no como ventilador para refrescar su hogar.

Revise las ventanas y puertas para asegurarse de que la habitación esté bien sellada y no entre humo. Prepárese para los incendios forestales sellando las ventanas y puertas con goteras.

Actualice el filtro de su sistema HVAC a un filtro con clasificación MERV 13. Revise y reemplace ese filtro periódicamente.

Evite actividades que generen humo o contaminación en interiores, como fumar, usar la chimenea de leña y quemar incienso o velas. Use la campana extractora mientras cocina.

Las personas con problemas de salud deben hablar con su médico para desarrollar un plan personal para el humo de los incendios forestales.

3. Encuentre un Centro de Aire Limpio cerca de usted si no puede crear una habitación con aire limpio en casa.

Encuentre la más cercana a usted en: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/cleanaircenters.

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

Click here to follow the original article.

Mild conditions for the holiday, possible evening fog for coasts and coastal valleys

Andie Lopez Bornet

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – As we head into our Thursday evening, wind speeds are looking to remain mild which is good news for fire crews to get hold of the Madre fire which has burned over 35,000 acres. The Madre fire is currently 5% contained.

For 4th of July weather conditions are expected to be near normal with temperatures slightly below average for this time of year. For the coasts and coastal valleys, early morning and late evening marine layer is looking to be persistent. There is a chance watching fireworks may be difficult by the evening.

Temperatures will be toasty inland sitting around high 80s to low 90s, while valleys will remain in the 70s and 80s and for the coasts in the 70s. Light sundowner winds will pick up per usual by the afternoon, but will remain on the calmer side.

As we head into the weekend, conditions will stay similar, with some areas slightly dropping in temperatures. headed into next week, First Alert Weather is tracking a mini heat wave, expected to arrive by mid week.

Click here to follow the original article.

Air Quality Watch for Santa Barbara County in the Midst of Madre Fire

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District regarding Air Quality Watch for the county in the midst of the Madre Fire

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. — The Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District and County of Santa Barbara Health Department issued an Air Quality Watch for Santa Barbara County to be in effect until conditions improve. The Madre Fire burning along Highway 166 between Highway 101 and New Cuyama is producing significant smoke; currently, ground-level conditions are good to moderate countywide. This is a dynamic situation, and local air quality conditions can change quickly. All Santa Barbara County residents are encouraged to stay alert to local conditions by visiting www.ourair.org/todays-air-quality or fire.airnow.gov.

Levels of smoke and particles, and areas affected, will vary. If you see or smell smoke in the air, be cautious and use common sense to protect your and your family’s health. Everyone, especially people with heart or lung conditions, older adults, pregnant women, and children, should limit time spent outdoors and avoid outdoor exercise when high concentrations of smoke and particles are in the air.

When air quality reaches unhealthy levels, and/or if you see or smell smoke, we recommend that everyone:

Head indoors and remain indoors, as much as possible;

Avoid strenuous outdoor activity;

Close all windows and doors that lead outside to prevent bringing additional smoke inside;

Avoid driving when possible and use “recycle” or re-circulate mode to avoid drawing smoky air into the car

Drink plenty of fluids to keep respiratory membranes moist

If you are an essential worker and must work outside during wildfire smoke conditions, the use of a properly fitted N-95 mask provides protection.

When wildfire smoke is affecting your area, create a “clean air room” to keep indoor air quality safe. The best protection against wildfire smoke is to stay indoors as much as possible when smoke is present. For information on different ways to create a “clean air room,” click here.

If you have symptoms that may be related to exposure to smoke and soot, contact your doctor. Symptoms include repeated coughing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness or pain, palpitations, and nausea or unusual fatigue or lightheadedness.

Traducción en español:

CONDADO DE SANTA BÁRBARA, California — El Distrito de Control de la Contaminación del Aire del Condado de Santa Bárbara y el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Santa Bárbara emitieron una Vigilancia de la Calidad del Aire para el Condado de Santa Bárbara, hasta que mejoren las condiciones. El incendio Madre, a lo largo de la Carretera 166, entre la Carretera 101 y New Cuyama, está produciendo considerables cantidades de humo; actualmente, las condiciones a nivel bajo son de buenas a moderadas en todo el condado. Esta es una situación dinámica, y las condiciones locales de la calidad del aire pueden cambiar rápidamente. Se recomienda a todos los residentes del Condado de Santa Bárbara que se mantengan atentos a las condiciones locales visitando https://www.ourair.org/todays-air-quality/ o https://fire.airnow.gov/.

Los niveles de humo y partículas, y las áreas afectadas, variarán. Si ve o huele humo en el aire, tenga cuidado y use el sentido común para proteger su salud y la de su familia. Todos, especialmente las personas con afecciones cardíacas o pulmonares, los adultos mayores, las mujeres embarazadas y los niños, deben limitar el tiempo que pasan al aire libre y evitar el ejercicio al aire libre cuando hay altas concentraciones de humo y partículas en el aire.

Cuando la calidad del aire alcanza niveles que no son saludables y/o si ve o huele humo, recomendamos que todos:

Se metan para adentro y permanezcan adentro, lo más que sea posible;

Eviten las actividades extenuantes al aire libre;

Cierren todas las ventanas y puertas que van al exterior para evitar que entre más humo en los interiores;

Eviten conducir cuando sea posible y use el modo “reciclar” o recircular para evitar que entre aire con humo en el automóvil;

Beban muchos líquidos para mantener húmedo su sistema respiratorio;

Si usted es un trabajador esencial y debe trabajar al aire libre durante condiciones de humo, el uso de una máscara N-95 debidamente ajustada dará protección.

Cuando el humo de los incendios esté afectando su área, haga una “habitación de aire limpia” para mantener segura la calidad del aire del interior. La mejor protección contra el humo de los incendios es permanecer adentro tanto como sea posible cuando haya humo. Para obtener información sobre las diferentes formas de hacer una “habitación de aire limpia,” haga clic aquí.

Si tiene síntomas que pueden estar relacionados con la exposición al humo y al hollín, comuníquese con su doctor. Los síntomas incluyen tos repetida, falta de aire o dificultad para respirar, sibilancias, opresión o dolor en el pecho, palpitaciones y náuseas o fatiga o aturdimiento inusuales.

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

Click here to follow the original article.

Community Environmental Council Seeing Challenges among Non-Profits due to Federal Budget Cuts

Patricia Martellotti

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is seeing challenges among non-profits due to federal budget cuts in Santa Barbara.

They’re hoping to help these organizations during tough times by providing a low-cost, low-stress space to gather and collaborate.

Since the start of this year, the organization has seen an uptick in local non-profits booking the Hub.

They believe this is a possible sign of how much community spaces are needed right now.

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

Click here to follow the original article.

Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation Projects Hundreds at July 4th Celebration in Santa Barbara

Patricia Martellotti

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – A local veterans group is preparing for their July 4th celebration featuring The Prime Time Band in Santa Barbara.

The Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation is projecting hundreds of community members will celebrate with them on Friday for Independence Day.

This is a free, family-friendly concert featuring from patriotic favorites like Band of Brothers and Top Gun— as well as fan-favorite selections from Wicked, How to Train Your Dragon, The Magnificent Seven, and classic patriotic sing-alongs.

The celebration is happening on Friday, July 4th at 5:00 PM at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Gardens.

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

Click here to follow the original article.

Fourth of July Fireworks Safety and Enforcement in Grover Beach

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the Arroyo Grande Police Department regarding fireworks in Arroyo Grande and Surrounding Areas

ARROYO GRANDE, Calif. – With Independence Day just around the corner, please remember to know the risks of fireworks. Stay safe while using legal “Safe and Sane” fireworks. If you see or suspect illegal fireworks are being used in your neighborhood, please report it to your local law enforcement! Law Enforcement in the Five Cities area will be deploying additional resources to identify and cite those using illegal fireworks. Calls for service throughout the county increase dramatically on July 4th and we ask that everyone safely celebrates our Independence Day!

All Fireworks in Oceano are illegal and subject to the San Luis Obispo County “social host ordinance”.

Illegal fireworks can cause great bodily harm and significantly increase the risk of fires within our communities. Even Safe and Sane fireworks can cause a fire or injury. Each year there are nearly 20,000 fires attributed to fireworks across the country.

Know the risks

The unsafe use of fireworks can cause severe burns, amputations, blinding, and even death.

Damaging fires occur when children use fireworks unsupervised by adults.

Parents are responsible for any property damage or injuries caused by all fireworks.

Keep it legal

All legal fireworks in California are called “Safe and Sane” fireworks and must bear the State Fire Marshal’s seal.

Any fireworks that are airborne and explodes are dangerous and illegal.

Time period to discharge “safe and sane” fireworks is July 4th only from 10a.m. to 10p.m. in Arroyo Grande and Grover Beach.

Keep it safe

Always have a metal bucket of water to dispose of fireworks.

Always have a hose connected to water available in case of fire.

Do not use fireworks near dry grass of flammable materials.

Do not use fireworks while under a canopy, covered balcony, covered patio, or under trees or bushes.

How to report illegal fireworks

Arroyo Grande Police Department: (805) 473-5100

Grover Beach Police Department: (805) 473-4511

San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Department (805) 781-4540

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

Click here to follow the original article.

Santa Barbara County Fire Department July 4th Safety and Fireworks Advisory

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the Santa Barbara County Fire Department regarding Fourth of July Safety and illegal fireworks.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – As Independence Day approaches, the Santa Barbara County Fire Department reminds the public that all types of fireworks are illegal in unincorporated areas and several cities including Santa Barbara, Goleta, Carpinteria, Buellton, and Solvang. Fireworks are only permitted in Santa Maria, Guadalupe, and Lompoc.

Fireworks can cause severe injuries, burns, and fires. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending professional displays.

Safety Tips:

Attend Professional Displays: Enjoy fireworks safely at shows run by experts.

Pet Safety: Loud noises can distress pets. Leave them at home during fireworks events.

For Legal Fireworks Areas:

Preparation: Keep water nearby to extinguish fireworks properly.

Avoid Alcohol: Do not use fireworks while impaired.

Safety with Duds: Do not handle unexploded fireworks. Soak them in water instead.

For additional safety information, contact the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

Scott SafechuckFire Captain – Public Information OfficerSanta Barbara County Fire DepartmentOffice: (805) 681-5531Cell: (805) 896-6336SSafechuck@countyofsb.org

Traducción en español:

A medida que se acerca el Día de la Independencia, el Departamento de Bomberos del Condado de Santa Bárbara le avisa al público que todos los tipos de fuegos artificiales son ilegales en áreas no incorporadas y en varias ciudades. Esas ciudades incluyen Santa Bárbara, Goleta, Carpintería, Buellton y Solvang. Los fuegos artificiales solo están permitidos en Santa María, Guadalupe y Lompoc.

Los fuegos artificiales pueden causar heridas graves, quemaduras e incendios. La forma más segura de disfrutar los fuegos artificiales es asistiendo a eventos profesionales.

Consejos de seguridad:

Asistir a celebraciones profesionales: Disfrute de los fuegos artificiales de forma segura en espectáculos dirigidos por expertos.

Seguridad de las mascotas: Los ruidos fuertes pueden molestar a las mascotas. Déjalos en casa durante los eventos de fuegos artificiales.

Para zonas de fuegos artificiales legales:

Preparación: Mantenga agua cerca para extinguir los fuegos artificiales adecuadamente.

Evite el alcohol: No use fuegos artificiales mientras esté bajos los efectos.

Seguridad con materiales de fuegos artificiales: No maneje fuegos artificiales que no explotaron. En vez de eso, sumérjalos en agua.

Para obtener mas información, comuníquese con el Departamento de Bomberos del Condado de Santa Bárbara.

Scott SafechuckCapitán de Bomberos – Oficial de Información PúblicaDepartamento de Bomberos del Condado de Santa BárbaraOficina 805 681-5531Celular 805 896-6336SSafechuck@countyofsb.org

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

Click here to follow the original article.

Independence Day Reminder – All Fireworks & Bonfires are Illegal in Montecito

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the Montecito Fire Department regarding the a polite reminder that all fireworks and bonfires are banned in the community of Montecito

MONTECITO, CA – As the Fourth of July holiday quickly approaches, the Montecito Fire Department reminds the community that fireworks are dangerous and therefore, illegal in all unincorporated areas of Santa Barbara County, including Montecito.

The manufacturing, storage, sale, handling and use of all fireworks poses an extreme safety risk to our community and is strictly prohibited in all areas of the Montecito Fire Protection District. Setting off fireworks may lead to injury, property damage or wildfire ignition. All fireworks, including “safe & sane” fireworks such as sparklers, are prohibited in Montecito.

Vegetation in Montecito is on track to reach critically dry levels by mid-summer. Current fuel moisture readings of local chaparral is 20-30 percent drier than this same time last year. This means the vegetation is highly receptive to burning and any spark that lands in brush has potential to cause a wildfire.

Bonfires are also strictly prohibited at Santa Barbara County beaches within the Montecito Fire Protection District. This includes Butterfly and Miramar Beaches.

While fireworks are synonymous with many Independence Day celebrations, we ask our community to consider the safety of their neighbors and environment this holiday and leave the firework displays to talented professionals. The City of Santa Barbara’s Waterfront Department will sponsor a professional, 20-minute fireworks display starting at 9 p.m. at West Beach. This free fireworks show is sure to be a spectacular and safe display.  

We encourage anyone with information about illegal fireworks to call the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office at (805) 681-4100.  

Additionally, we invite everyone to Montecito Fire Station 91 (595 San Ysidro Road) for the Montecito Firefighters Association’s Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast between 7-11 a.m. This longstanding community tradition draws hundreds of people to the fire station for a fun, delicious and patriotic start to Independence Day. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $15. Children ages 10 and under are free.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Montecito Firefighters Charitable Foundation. Following the Pancake Breakfast, Montecito Fire Department will participate in the Montecito Association’s Village 4th Road Show starting at 11:30 a.m.

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

Click here to follow the original article.

Rough start dooms SB Foresters

Mike Klan

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Santa Barbara Foresters couldn’t recover from a rocky first two innings on Wednesday night, falling short to the OC Riptide 7-3 at Eddie Mathew’s Field. Despite Settling down on the mound and putting together solid offensive moments in the middle innings, the early damage proved to be too much to overcome. 

Starting pitcher Drew Rerick struggled with command out of the gate, issuing six walks and giving up four runs in a wild first inning that featured multiple passed balls and well placed Riptide singles. He was lifted in the second after two more walks and a wild pitch brought in another run. JD Goodcase came in and stopped the hurt, aided by a heads-up double play that caught a runner at home. 

Down 5-0 early, ‘Sters began to rally in the third. Terrence Kiel led off with a double, and Brenton Clark followed with a walk. Easton Moomau grounded out to bring Kiel home for the ‘Sters first run, and after Clark’s stolen base and a walk to Sawyer Farr, Cole Chamberlain came through with a big RBI single to bring in another. The Forester’s were hot, but only got the score to 5-2. 

OC struck back in the sixth with a two-run double off Elliot Gallegos, stretching their lead to 7-2. Tyler Phenow and Easton Tumis pitched scoreless frames in the seventh through the ninth to keep the Riptide at bay. 

Pinch-hitter Caleb Hoover struck out to begin the ninth for the ‘Sters and OC Pitcher Telfer finished things off with a groundout and a final punchout to Zane Becker, handing the Foresters another loss. 

The ‘Sters will look to bounce back Friday at Eddie Mathews Field as they host the MLB Academy Barons tomorrow, July 3rd. First pitch at 4:30pm with live coverage on the Foresters YouTube channel. 

(Article courtesy of Sami Ogan & Oskar Stark).

Click here to follow the original article.