The Californer - PODS® and Cumulus Radio Announce Winner of "Imagine the PODS-ibilities" Contest

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VENTURA, Calif. - Californer -- In celebration of its 20th anniversary serving Ventura and the Tri Counties, PODS® Moving and Storage partnered with Cumulus Radio stations to launch the "Imagine the PODS-ibilities" contest — and today, they're proud to announce the winner: Susie Ortega, who entered on behalf of her father, Mario Ortega, a selfless retiree, devoted grandfather, and lifelong Ventura County resident.

The prize? A 6-month free use of a PODS® container and $2,000 to help make a dream project possible. For the Ortega family, that dream is turning a long-cluttered garage into the ultimate "man cave" — a long-held wish of Mario's that he never put before the needs of others.

"He deserves a place to relax, enjoy his well-earned retirement, and finally showcase that bar he's been holding onto all these years," wrote Susie Ortega in her heartfelt contest entry. "This would be a small way to give something back to a man who has given so much."

Over the years, Mario's garage has been transformed into a de facto community storage space — helping his five daughters, extended family, and friends during their life transitions. Even in retirement, Mario continues to give, spending each day as a loving caregiver to his adult grandson, Mario Jr., whom he shares a special, unbreakable bond with. Now, thanks to PODS® and Cumulus, it's his turn.

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"We're absolutely thrilled to help bring this project to life for Mario and his family," said Steve Yapp, Owner of PODS® Local in Ventura County. "This is exactly what PODS® is here for — helping real people make space for what matters most. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary in this community, it means everything to give back in a way that truly changes someone's everyday life. We've enjoyed every minute of being a part of Ventura County, and stories like this are why we do what we do."

PODS® has been a trusted partner in the Ventura County and surrounding area for two decades, offering convenient, cost-effective moving and storage solutions to thousands of residents and local nonprofits. Whether it's assisting with major life transitions, home renovations, or decluttering projects, PODS® helps customers move and store on their schedule — with flexibility and care.

As part of this celebration, the "Imagine the PODS-ibilities" contest was designed to spotlight local stories of resilience, hope, and transformation. And in honoring a man like Mario Ortega who's spent a lifetime putting others first, it's clear that this celebration is about more than just storage. It's about making room for the moments that matter most.