Huntington Beach lifeguards featured in reality show

from HB Independent

Better than Baywatch!
Reality show follows Huntington Beach lifeguards as they protect visitors at area’s beautiful beaches. Marine Safety Chief Kyle Lindo is ready for his close-up. Or at least, he thinks his department is.

At 8 p.m. Tuesday, Huntington Beach lifeguards will be front-and-center on the reality show “Ocean Force,” which follows lifeguards around on emergency calls all summer. Renamed from “Beach Patrol” for its fifth season, the show is a major part of the relaunch of cable channel Court TV as the reality-oriented TruTV.

The “COPS”-like show doesn’t start till New Year’s Day, but those interested in the daily challenges of local lifeguards can get a taste at www.trutv.com. Web videos featuring Huntington Beach lifeguards show them handling a feud between animal owners on Dog Beach, and calming a diabetic man with behavioral problems and dangerously high blood sugar.
Those are minor incidents compared with some of the biggest rescues in the show, Lindo said. It was an intensely busy summer for the Marine Safety Division, with rescues up by 35% over the year before, spinal injuries up by more than half, and four cases in which a defibrillator was needed, he said.
“We were able to resuscitate a 14-year-old child that had a heart defect” in one case, he said. “Medical experts said that if we weren’t there so quickly, they may not have made it.”
In addition to making it into the first episode, that incident will be the basis of a training video for lifeguards throughout the country, Lindo said.
As part of the city delegation reviewing all the footage before it was used, Lindo said he also wanted to make sure nobody got the wrong idea about Huntington Beach.
“Our statistics were up, but the majority of the 10 million people that come to the beach have a great time,” he said. “We didn’t want an imbalance of too many ocean rescues or too many medical aids. We didn’t want the perception to be there that it’s just chaos here.”
The final result is a program that shows off the professionalism of the lifeguards and displays Huntington Beach as a great place to visit the water, he said.
“Watching the events in the show, you see the beautiful beach: sand, fire rings, palm trees,” Lindo said. “When you dream of what an ideal beach is, you’re going to see it in the backdrop of the show.”

Recycle those Christmas Trees!

Have a Christmas Tree to get rid of? Do a good thing and recycle ! Rainbow Disposal will collect discarded Christmas trees for free until January 18. The trees will be ground and recycled into mulch. To recycle a tree, remove all ornaments, hooks, light strings, tinsel and stand and place it next to the trash carts. Do not block assess to the carts and do not put your Christmas tree in the carts. Trees must be cut to six feet maximum, with no stands. For more information, contact Public Works Department at 714-375-5010 or Rainbow Disposal at 714-847-3581.

Still not sure what to do on New Year's Eve ? Check out the holiday page on TheLocalHB.com (under the calendar section)

New Year's Day in Huntington Beach

Come on down to the Huntington Beach Pier on New Year's Day for the annual Pier Plaza Plunge at noon. watch or better yet, participate in the plunge - running in to ocean clad in your bathing suit (no wetsuits!). The day starts at 9:30 with a pancake breakfast hosted by the Huntington Beach Lion's Club (who also sponsors the Plunge). For more info or to regsiter, check out www.HBPlunge.com

Go Green! Recycle, Recycle

Beachside Recycling Center is your local recycling provider for the
Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, Westminister, and Irvine areas.

Beachside Recycling Center is a direct recycler, located at
8601 Edison Ave Unit C
Huntington Beach CA 92646
Phone: (714) 969-7638
Fax: (714) 969-0077
Email: info@beachsiderecycling.com

Unlike most other recycling facilities that just buy and resell recycled goods we make products using YOUR recycled materials!

They manufacture a Cal-Trans Certified cellulose fiber mulch out of our blend of recycled papers,
which is used to cultivate new lawns and fields, and aid in erosion control right here in California!
Join us in completing the recycling circle!

Last minute shopping?

Need to do last minute holiday shopping?? Try to support some of the local businesses if you still need to pick up a thing or two! Here are a few suggestions:

HB Skin Spa , 526 Main St. Ste 102. / 969-9713 / ( www.hbskinspa.com ) has gift certificates you can use for a variety of services - all to make you look and feel better. Check out their website to see the list of services.

Is your love one a golfer? Visit GolfTec at 7564 Edinger Ave. 714-861-3882 / www.golftec.com - give the gift of lessons and watch that gold swing (and score) improve!

Need a new hair style? Can't go wrong at Salon Ambiance , 5075 Warner Ave. Ste 101. / 846-5900 /. You can swing by and pick up a gift certificate for one of their services, or even choose the very relaxing Reflexology Massage!

Here is something new and exciting to try - Extreme Indoor Karting, 1670 Sunflower Ave. Costa Mesa, 92626. / 714-444-1001. Imagine racing around the track in an electric kart, hitting up to 45 mph. That is darn fast on this 1/4 mile track. They are very close to HB (right near the FV Costco) and certainly worth the visit. Check out their website: www.xindoorkarting.com to learn more about this exhilarating entertainment - gift certificates available of course. What a great, unique gift idea!

You say you were thinking of giving a dog to someone on your gift list? Consider adopting one of the loveable canines waiting for a home at our local animal shelter , at 21632 Newland St. / 536-8480. You can see some of the dogs on www.TheLocalHb.com - go to the Pet Adoption link on the home page (link on the right hand side). They have an abundance of dogs & cats just waiting to be taken home!

Huntington Beach Luxury homes completed at Hearthside

From The Wave, OC Register
HUNTINGTON BEACH The Cliffs and The Breakers, two luxury neighborhoods at Brightwater at Bolsa Chica, are now completed. The Cliffs' two-story residences have three to six bedrooms and two-and-a-half to four baths within about 2,724 to 3,480 square feet. Garages will accommodate two or three vehicles. Most home plans include a bonus room and a private courtyard, and one plan will feature an optional prep kitchen in addition to a conventional kitchen. Select locations will also feature views of the Bolsa Chica wetlands and the ocean. The Breakers residences span about 3,162 to 4,139 square feet, with four to six bedrooms, three-and-a-half to five-and-a-half baths, plus a three- or four-car garage. There are also private courtyards and bonus rooms. The Brightwater community encompasses 356 homes in four residential neighborhoods. Prices are anticipated to begin at $1.7 million. Information: www.BrightwaterHB.net.

Thumbs down to Costco - it's a 'no' in Huntington Beach

From the Orange County Register:
The president of Golden West College has recommended against a controversial proposal to build a Costco discount store on 14 acres of the campus, according to a report released Thursday to college trustees.
“I recommend … that the district reject this proposal,” college President Wes Bryan wrote to the board of trustees of the Coast Community College District, which operates the college.
Instead, Bryan, who initially supported the project, recommended that officials move forward with the plans already spelled out in the college’s master plan to develop a six or seven-acre parcel for student or faculty housing, or other needs.
City officials said they’re disappointed in the report.
“We think it made sense and to have gone forward,” said Stanley Smalewitz, the Huntington Beach economic development director. “It would’ve been compatAible with the campus and neighborhood.”
In his report, Bryan reiterated concerns from opponents. He said the Costco project would be too large, provide too much “traffic for an already congested street” and create a negative impact on the community.
The location for the proposed student housing is “too close to high tension wires and may propose real or perceived health risks,” he wrote.
The proposal to build a Costco, student housing and a pedestrian bridge near Gothard Street on land now used for sports and parking has been championed by the city economic development department as a way to bring revenues to the city and college and also provide student housing.
Opponents to the project were ecstatic to hear the news.
“I think he came to the right decision of ‘let’s not sell the college,’” said Robert Sternberg, an opponent who lives a half mile from the site. “It’s not all free money. It has a price. All that glitters is not gold.”

Relief for fire, water, wind damage with OC Restoration

OC Restoration is located at 15102 Bolsa Chica St. Unit D. Huntington Beach, 92649
Phone: 714-625-8635.
OC Restoration is a service worth knowing. They certainly take care of the Huntington Beach community as well as other areas. They were quite active down at those last fires in San Diego as well.

They know that experiencing wind, water, or fire damage to your home, often your most valuable asset, can be very upsetting, and deciding which restoration company to hire can be difficult. O.C. Restoration Inc. understands this and wants to help in your decision so your home is restored back to its pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. In times like this it is extremely important to address the situation immediately, as to avoid any secondary damage which could result in mold growth. They are available 24/7 with a 90 minute response time. Learn more about them on their website: www.ocrestoration.com - you can also find them on TheLocalHB.com. Welcome to the locals pages OC Restoration!

Builder will add decals on glass wall to help birds

From the OC Register:
Hearthside Homes plans to put special decals on a 6-foot-tall wall surrounding the Brightwater development to keep birds from flying into the glass, officials said today.
The decals are expected to reflect ultraviolet light in such a way that can be seen by birds but remain nearly invisible to humans, said Ed Mountford, senior vice president of Hearthside Homes.
Environmentalists and state officials asked Hearthside to take action earlier this month after at least a dozen birds – including a raptor, meadowlark, yellow rumped warbler and Anna's hummingbird -- were found dead along what they call "the wall of death" in the Bolsa Chica Mesa.
Hearthside ordered 1,500 stickers to be placed on the 4,400-foot-long wall. The decals are expected to be rain resistant and last for up to 18 months, Mountford said.
Read the full story HERE.

Post Thanksgiving in Huntington Beach

A couple of things going on this week:

For networking, RBN is having their networking lunch this coming Tuesday (27th). This networking luncheon & mini expo covers Huntington Beach, Long Beach & Seal Beach. $25 members, $35 non-members & guests. For more info or to make on-line reservation, go to www.rbninfo.com

It's going to be a big one in downtown this weekend. Main Street is going to be the place to be. On Saturday, HB Skin Spa is hosting a Diva Day, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Don't you and your friends deserve a day of fun, food & shopping? Come support your local businesses! You will find clothing, purses, Pampered Chef, OC Pole Fitness, Aussie Dog Wash, candles, perfume, Posh Gourmet, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Cookie Lee Jewelry, Goji Juice and more! All proceeds for the day go to the Huntington Beach Community Clinic. Location: HB Skin Spa, 526 Main St. Ste 102 in the courtyard. Free to attend. For more info or to participate: 969-9713
And while your downtown, I'm sure you've heard it is the Taste of New Zealand weekend. New Zealand may be clear across the globe, but residents of Huntington Beach are going to be fortunate enough to get a taste of its culture during the first weekend of December. Maori performers, outdoor New Zealand films, food demonstrations by 10 different New Zealand chefs and more is scheduled for this exciting FREE event. Main will be closed to car traffic both days. Times are: December 1, 2007 (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.) / December 2, 2007 (11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.). See FLYER

Of course there is more to do in town and you can find it all listed in the calendar section of the site.

FEATURED BUSINESS OF THE WEEK La Choza - Located at 7402 Edinger Ave at Gothard. 714-842-7888. Traditional Mexican food since 1976 (but new to Huntington Beach). Make sure to try their home made tortillas. They are the best. They also have a great banquet room for your party needs! Perfect for those family gatherings or office parties! La Choza also now has a salsa night! Every Tuesday you can come out and do some dancing on their patio. Free lessons from 8:30 to 9:30 pm, and then practice your moves with dancing til 2:00 am! Yes there are a few places in OC that are open late! I haven't been to the salsa night yet, but I've heard they fill the place. I have eaten there, and I keep going back. It is SO good. Give them a try - their Mexican food is worth it. If you didn't see their coupon in the last copy of Dining Out in Huntington Beach, you can print it from your computer off our coupon page .

Support Huntington Beach this holiday season and shop locally

Thanks to Joe Shaw for this posting in his 'Greetings from Huntington Beach' blog! I thought this was important enough to re-post it here! Let's support Huntington Beach.

This Christmas it's more important than ever to shop locally.
With reports showing a dismal October for retailers nationwide, with the Orange County housing market taking a more than 10 percent dive in the last year, and with the price of oil nearing $100 a barrel, all predictions are that consumers will be tight with this year's holiday spending.
We can help our local businesses by keeping our holiday shopping dollars at home here in Huntington Beach.
There are small specialty stores throughout our city that support families and Christmas is the time of the year when they make enough money to pay the bills for the whole year. Choose one of our small independent stores for your gifts this year.
If you need to shop at chain stores, go to Bella Terra or Five Points or downtown Huntington Beach to do your shopping. Don't spend your money in Costa Mesa or Long Beach or Newport Beach. Let's help our local businesses and keep our money here at home.

Coastal Commission Bows to Shea Homes, Sacrifices Bolsa Chica Wetlands

This is just terrible! So many of us locals are VERY unhappy. Once again the money of the big developers wins out and nature loses. Sad, so very sad.

FROM THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
BY CINDY CARCAMO and ANNIE BURRIS

The Orange County Register story below barely begins to tell the awful tale of how Coastal Commission member Dan Secord and his merry band of development crazed panel members sought to gut their staff’s expert and scientific recommendations in order to allow Shea Homes to bulldoze and destroy wetlands and raptor habitat at the Bolsa Chica wetlands in Huntington Beach late last evening.
It wasn’t as though coastal scientists and environmentalists sought to deny development. In fact, the preferred plan would have allowed even more than the 170 houses sought by Shea, but would have used a clustered approach to save wetlands on the property and insure endangered white tailed kite raptors survive the subdivision.
Secord, notably, embarrassed himself and the intergrity of the entire California coastal program with his relentless efforts to destroy every bit of coastal resource protection conditions contained in the staff analysis. Secord even said, at one point, “Help me here, I want to delete the wetland.” Watch it for yourself as it is all on internet video available on the Coastal Commission website at www.coastal.ca.gov. (Note: Commission member Dan Secord is an appointment of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger - three of four of the Governor’s panel members- Brooks Firestone, Bonnie Neely and Secord- read off the Shea Homes crib notes for their actions. Only gubernatorial appointment, Steve Blank, made an effort to protect wetlands and raptor habitat at the site. Worse, ALL FOUR of Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez’ appoinments to the Commission- Ben Hueso, Patrick Kruer, William Burke and Dave Potter- towed Shea Homes’ freight. Sadly, only two of Senate leader Don Perata’s appointments- Sara Wan and Mary Shallenberger- sought to protect the wetlands, while the other two- Larry Clark and Mike Reilly- both sided with Shea.
In the end, it was a great day for a growing corps of highly paid pro-development lobbyists and the ‘wine and dine’ atmosphere of the Commission and a sad commentary on the direction of the Commission, where coastal development and private profits trump even marginal resource protection efforts.Wednesday, November 14, 2007Homes next to wetlands OK’d by coastal panelShea Homes proponents and opponents are confused, however, as to exactly how much land both sides lost for their causes.

Hotels for the Thanksgiving holiday visitors!

Do you find yourself with last minute family members coming in to town? No place in your house to put them up? Why not let TheLocalHB.com help you out. Did you know you can make hotel reservations for HB and surrounding areas on the site? Pay the same, or most likely less, by making your reservation through our system. Safe & secure. Check out what's available HERE - and if you can't open that link, go to the HOTELS menu button on the site. And if you don't like making reservations on line, we also have a toll free number for you! 1-877-545-3249 where you can speak to a live person. And don't forget to check out the places in town who are offering Thanksgiving brunch/dinner. A couple of new ones have been added. INFO HERE .

Early holiday shopping at these Holiday Boutiques

To start off the holidays right, do some celebrating and some shopping. A few events are coming up you'll want to know about.

Thursday the 15th at 4:30, Happiness Consignment store (16562 Gothard @ Heil) is having a ribbon cutting. Ladies, you don't want to miss this one. This little shop if filled with treasures. Stop by that evening and show them your support.

After that ribbon cutting, you can pop over to Ocean View High School (Warner & Gothard) for their Holiday Boutique . From 4 to 9 pm, it will take place in the school commons (enter off the Gothard parking lot). Put on by the Grad Night Committee, there will be 25 vendors to shop from including Cookie Lee Jewelry, Pampered Chef, Taste of Home, Longaberger, Arbonne , Partylite, Silpada, Gold Canyon, Holiday crafts and linens, Discovery Toys, Children's clothing and much more! There will be refreshments and opportunity drawings throughout the evening.

On the following weekend - Friday the 23rd from 9am to 5pm and Saturday from 9am to 3 pm, Dinners Ready (7378 Center Ave @ Gothard) will host a Holiday Boutique. Stop by and check out the vendors and their wares!

Fresh & Easy soon to open in Huntington Beach

Thanks to the LA times for this info

The new Fresh & Easy markets get a big thumbs-up from customers for product selection and lower prices.

Maybe Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market can compete after all. Parking lots were full and cash-register lines long at the six stores that British grocery giant Tesco opened in Southern California on Thursday. Some people showed up two hours before front doors were unlocked.
To find out whether the wait was worth it, The Times sent staffers to four of the new markets and asked Evan Kleiman, host of "Good Food" on KCRW-FM (89.9) and owner-chef of Angeli Caffe in Los Angeles, and Donna Barasch, a Villa Park gastronome whose cookbook collection numbers more than 250, to visit two.They found Fresh & Easy to be a blend of Trader Joe's and Ralphs."I would definitely go back," Kleiman said after returning home from the Fresh & Easy in Glassell Park.
The Fresh & Easy philosphies:
"We create value for our customers so they will come back again and again."
"We treat people how we like to be treated and nobody tries harder for customers."
"We think fresh, wholesome food should be accessible and affordable to everyone."
"We're a neighborhood market, so it only makes sense that we care about our neighbors and our environment."
"People who are valued are better able to value our customers, so creating a rewarding workplace is very important to us."
Read more about them on their website.

Salon Ambiance for your Hair - Huntington Beach

People come up to me and ask me where I get my hair done.... I'm sure everyone has had that happen before. Well I hear that more than ever now. And it is because I switched over to Salon Ambiance (5075 Warner Ave near Bolsa Chica - 714.846.5900). They have been open a bit over a year now and that is about how long I've been going there. And not once have I been disappointed. In fact, it is the opposite. I love them! Sopi, the owner, is the one who takes care of me. If you give them a call and she isn't available, I can also recommend Paul Pina - I know others who go to him and are very happy!! If you are looking for a new place to get your hair done, check them out! They are, of course, full service so anything you need done they'll do! And make sure to check the website for other business listings!

Savings with Huntington Beach businesses

Once again, TheLocalHB.com is featured in the Clipper Magazine. And we offered coupon savings for several local businesses in town. If you didn't get your copy in the mail, you can check those coupons in the coupon section of the website. You will find savings for:

Slow Fish Sushi & Cal-Asian Cuisine
free appetizer

Sea Siam Thai Food
save 10% off your bill

HB Skin Spa
discounts on various services

AR Mobility Discounted Medical Supplies
5% off in-stock item

Golf Tec Golf Instruction
50% off swing evaluation

Cartridge World
$2 off purchase.

Check them out!!! Also Mark your calendars for Nov 2 for the holiday showcase put on by Erika's Catering. Free to attend with a canned food item.

Cab-i-Net cabinets in Huntington Beach

Why go to the big home improvement companies for your kitchen or bathroom remodel just to get lost in the shuffle or be disappointed in the installation? Cab-i-Net will leave you smiling instead. This smaller company can offer better customer service than the larger places! I've been to their showroom and they have beautiful products and can do a great job for you. I can't wait til we re-do our place! Check them out at their website or go by their location: 7151 Warner Ave. #D. 714-842-0920. Other business listings at www.thelocalhb.com.

Southern California Fires

You have to admit, we are pretty lucky here in Huntington Beach. Other than the smoke in the air (and some nasty Santa Ana winds), we did not have to endure what the residents of fire areas did. I'm sure there are pleny of us who have loved ones in the devestated areas. Our hearts go out to them. If you haven't seen all the photos out there of the damage, here are a sampling of photo clips. So very sad.

Tasty Italian in Huntington Beach

Enjoy Italian food? Try this out of the way little hole in the wall: Cafe Gazelle at 16041 Bolsa Chica (corner of Edinger) 846-2694. They have been open probably 4 months and we ventured in there for the first time and thoroughly enjoyed it. The fresh fish was delicious as was the pasta. It is a small place, nice intimate setting. Give them a try, I know we are looking forward to going back!

For a listing of all Huntington Beach restaurants, make sure to check out www.thelocalhb.com

New Sushi Restaurant in Huntington Beach at 5 Points

The Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting at a new sushi restaurant in Huntington Beach at 5 Points Plaza - Hashigo is the name and you won't be dissapointed if you go there! I've dined there a number of times already and it is consitently excellent. The sushi is fresh and cut right on the spot - where as some sushi restaurants pre-cut slices that sit in the chiller waiting to be ordered. Cutting on the spot keeps the fish fresher. The ambiance is very nice, has an upscale feeling to it, yet is casual enough to fit in to "Surf City". Stop by and tell Jimmy the owner hi. Tell him TheLocalHB sent you!

And for listings of all the restaurants in town (many with testimonials written in by locals), visit the DINING page.

7th Annual Orange County Music Awards

7th Annual Orange County Music Awards , 2008 are beginning their "Best Live Acoustic" and "Best Live Electric Band" Showcases, on October 23, 2007.
New venue and sponsor is: Hurricanes Bar and Grill
200 Main Street (Upstairs)
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714-374-0500
www.hurricanesbargrill.com
The Acoustic Showcases include artists vying for "Best Live Male", "Best Live Female" & "Best Live Acoustic Band" Performance, are held on Tuesday evenings. They begin at 8:00 PM. There is no cover charge, before 10:00 PM.
The Electric Showcases portray local bands who are competing for the title of "Best Live Electric Band" of Orange County, and unfurl on Thursday nights. Electric competition commences at 7:30 PM. There is no cover charge before 10:00 PM.
Competition will continue through February 28, 2008. Winners will be announced at The Grove of Anaheim, March 29, 2008.
Judges include Kathy Boag (CD Video Manufacturing), Carri Gallagher (The Galaxy), Becky Gold (OC Foto), Paul Gonzales (OCMA Veteran) & Debie Machen Griffith (Staff Pro).

Coupon Savings in Huntington Beach

Check out coupons on TheLocalHB
Go to the Coupons Section of the site - print out coupons and save money while supporting your local HB businesses.

Excellent Bamboo products in Huntington Beach at Creasian

As bamboo is rediscovered in Southeast Asian countries for its excellent elasticity, lightness, hardness, strength and beauty, it is being used more and more in modern and demanding construction. It is the building material that Asian architects are turning to not only for its traditional values but for its natural strength and eco-friendly renew ability.

At Creasian they are uniquely positioned to participate in this renaissance of bamboo construction and decoration. Their factories in Vietnam are situated at the heart of some of asia’s finest bamboo producing areas. Inspection of our product reveals consistent quality, strength and beauty. The showroom in Huntington Beach, California can provide off–the-shelf design elements or ideas for your own unique designs. Their factories in Vietnam stand ready to help you implement those designs. As it reappears on the American design scene, bamboo brings with it a newfound respect and popularity. Come to Creasian Bamboo to reconnect with bamboo and share in the excitement.

Visit Creasian at 5061 Warner Ave. And to read about other recommended local places, check out www.TheLocalHB.com

New Sushi Restaurant in Huntington Beach

We have a new sushi restaurant in town: Hashigo - located in 5 Points Plaza (18685 Main St.). If I had to describe this place in one word it would be WOW. The freshest sushi/sashimi. Unbelievable entrees, including the rib eye steak which has a delicious sauce to accompany this high quality tender beef. The Atmosphere is elegant yet still HB comfortable. The staff is pleasant and once you've been there, you feel like an instant regular. I highly recommend you give them a try!

Make sure to check out the WEBSITE for other restaurants in town. TheLocalHB.com has what you want to know about Huntington Beach!

Rescued Dog gets great home!

Thank you to The Orange County Register for this great story. I just had to post it for others to read.

Rescued dog gets ready to go home
HUNTINGTON BEACH 'He's so cute,' the 6-year-old boy exclaimed as he first caught of the sprightly, white Pekingese-Chihuahua mix licking and playing with the people who rescued him.
The Westminster Animal Control officers who found the dog about three months ago in a local Dumpster - his limbs and muzzle bound tightly in Zip-ties -- called him Mr. Lucky.
“He really was lucky to be alive,” said Karen Pickl, senior animal control officer.
Thursday, Lucky hit the jackpot when Ben and Sandra Frascona came with their two boys, Jonathan, 8, and William, 6, to take Lucky back to their 3-acre ranch in Aguanga, Riverside. There, the dog, who is now full of life and has learned to trust human beings again, will run free with two other dachshunds, pot-bellied pigs, horses, cats and chickens.
Ben Frascona, a Los Angeles County firefighter, said adopting Lucky was his wife’s idea. Sandra Frascona, whose husband calls her Dr. Doolittle, said the television footage of Lucky shown with his sad face, big eyes and bloodied ankles tugged at her heart strings.
“He’s lucky to have been rescued,” she said. “But we’re lucky to have him.”
The family recently put down their long-time pet, a Lab, which was hard on all of them, Ben Frascona said.
More than 200 people called the city after Lucky’s story was publicized, but only 20 families remained in the end. Pickl said the Frasconas were chosen because they had two young children who would love and play with this high-energy dog.
On Thursday, Pickl wiped away tears as she tried to say goodbye to the dog who would “go nuts” when her car pulled up near the shelter.
“It’s hard to let go,” she said. “But I’m very happy that this story has a happy ending. Lucky deserves this happiness after what he has been through.”
Lucky was first a little tentative as Jonathan tried to pet him. But soon, he started to lick William’s Spiderman shoes and rushed at Jonathan to be petted.
“Aw, I love his bushy tail and bended ears,” Jonathan gushed.
Pickl said she did not expect Lucky to recover completely.
“A lot of animals who go through what he’s been through tend to lose trust in people altogether,” she said. “But Lucky has done a 360 and miraculously recovered physically and emotionally.”
Officers have no leads on Lucky’s tormentor, Pickl said.
As for the name, Frascona said they thought about it during their drive to Huntington Beach.
“We’re going to keep his name Lucky,” he said. “It’s perfect.”

Need a great hair salon? Check out Salon Ambiance

I recently wrote a review of Salon Ambiance on City Search. I did this because this place is so top notch in service and quality. Check out the review from me and others at: SALON AMBIANCE REVIEW
Here is their contact info:

5075 Warner Ave. Ste 101

(near Bolsa Chica)

Huntington Beach, 92649

714-846-5900

Travel to Huntington Beach

Don't forget to take advantage of all TheLocalHB.com has to offer! When you visit Huntington Beach, you can read all about what to do while in town. Find out which resaurants the locals recommend for dining. See the current calendar for what is going on in town. Make your hotel reservations right on this site (you can even call in to talk to a live person!). Your hotel, car, attraction rates are discounted 20% - 50% and you can feel good about using a local reservation system instead of one of those large internet reservation systems where you are just another number lost in the swarm...

Check out the site now and find out 'where the locals go' in Huntington Beach!

Discounts in Huntington Beach

Do you love to save money?? TheLocalHB.com is in the current issue of Clipper Magazine! And in our ad, we highlighted 8 local businesses, which you can clip out of our ad. All are worth the visit. Below are the participants with their offer in italics. And for additional discounts check out TheLocalHB.com

For dining we have:
Brix wine tasting - 16635 PCH in Sunset Beach. This place is full of locals and the atmosphere is so friendly. Enjoy a free taste

Slow Fish Cal-Korean Cuisine - 16051 Bolsa Chica St. This is the place I've been raving about. If you made it out to their ribbon cutting this past Monday you would have enjoyed a wonderful sampling of their food. Soju Cocktail on the house (a lemony flavored Korean spirit).

Pancho Frijoles - 16635 PCH, right next door to Brix. This is the place for authentic tasty Mexican food! Buy one combo, get one 1/2 off.

Sea Siam Thai - 16103 Bolsa Chica. Our favorite Thai food in town!! And so convenient for take out too! 10% off your bill

The other businesses who joined in with TheLocalHB are:

GolfTec - 7564 Edinger Ave. I've heard some pretty impressive things about these guys. If you golf, you'll want to visit them to improve your swing! 50% off initial swing evaluation.

AR Mobility - 7923 Warner Ave. Ste B. Do you have any one in your family with physical challenges? Elderly parent who might need a scooter to help them get around? These folks are here to help. 5% any in-stock item.

Big Daddy's Car Wash - 17145 PCH, just north of Warner. It's where I get my car washed. They do a very good job and they are fast! no sitting around waiting and waiting! $14.99 Luxury Wash (regularly $18.99)

Cartridge World - 7088 Edinger (@ Goldenwest). Save a bundle on ink! There prices are already great. their coupon makes it even better. $2 off purchase.

If you received the Clipper Magazine you'll find all the above ads in there. If for some reason you didn't, don't worry, you can also find these coupons in the COUPON SECTION of TheLocalHB.com Support your local Huntington Beach community and give these folks your business. Clip that Clipper Magazine!! And while you're looking for TheLocalHB ad, check out all the other valuable discounts in the Clipper!

Save $$ by booking your hotels through TheLocalHB

Did you know you can book your hotels on line through TheLocalHB?

What an easy way to save anywhere from 20% to 50% at Huntington Beach hotels.

To read about the available hotels, check rates and book your stay, CLICK HERE.
If you are not comfortable booking on-line, you can call our toll free number: 1-877-545-3249 and speak to an expert.

Come to Huntington Beach to visit. Check out all there is to do in town!

A nice day at the Pier.

Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Slow Fish Restaurant

This Blog has mentioned what Slow Food is all about. Now here is your chance to try it out for yourself. On Monday, September 10 - 4:30 pm there will be a Business Ribbon Cutting at Slow Fish Cal-Korean cusine - 16051 Edinger Ave. Stop by and enjoy the delectable sushi, the fresh local fish and seafood at this charming casual cafe situated in in the heart of Huntington Beach. Dishes are designed and prepared to be savored leisurely in honor of the Slow Food Movement. Enjoy sake pairing dinners, a prixe fixe menu or express lunch. Don't forget to try the Fat-Avo, an "apple" of seared albacore covered in avacado slices - one of their signature dishes. Read more details about the restaurant HERE.

Slow Food - what does that mean?

The rice in this Sushi from the new SLOW FISH RESTAURANT menu may look and taste as rich as chocolate, but it's the color of healthy Black Rice when cooked. And Black Rice is only one way the Korean SLOW FISH chefs honor SLOW FOOD MOVEMENT principles.

Below is an article from Slow Food website - (June 2007)- all about slow food

Slow Food
So-called “slow food” is gaining ground as an alternative to fast food in Korea, in line with the “well-being” lifestyle boom. The Slow Food Campaign, which sprouted from Italy in the late 1980s, has steadily grown to have more than 70,000 paid members in 45 different countries around the world.

Slow Food Campaign
Slow food is everything that fast food is not. The phrase “slow food” was used for the first time in 1986 by a group of 62 Italians, who launched an anti-fast food campaign, in protest against a McDonald’s in Spain Square in Rome. Delegates from many countries around the world gathered in Paris in 1989 and adopted the “Slow Food Declaration,” officially launching a global slow food campaign. Decisive momentum for the campaign to spread worldwide came when the mad cow crisis occurred in England in the 1990s. Slow Food Korea was founded later in May 2000. The United States, the homeland of fast food, has more than 50 offices for the Slow Food Movement. Approximately 80,000 people from 100 countries around the world are reportedly engaged in the campaign. The international headquarters are located in Piemonte, Italy, and its symbol is the snail.

Slow Food — Healthy Food
The official Korean word for “slow food” was determined to be “Yeoyu-sik.” The Slow Food Movement, based on the “slow-going” philosophy, seeks to standardize tastes and preserve the joy of eating and traditional foods. Professor Kim Jong-duk at Kyungnam University, who founded Slow Food Korea, a local group promoting healthy eating habits, said, “For today’s busy people, who don’t have time to sit and enjoy a full meal, fast food may be an ideal option that keeps them from starving, but it’s crucial to know that the easy meal is also chipping away at their health.” He said fast food is a product of entrepreneurial farming, capitalist culture and profit, and stresses speed and unlimited competition. Slow food, however, is a healthy diet of seasonal foods, produced by family farming. Korea’s traditional foods, such as bean paste, soy sauce, kimchi, salted fish, and rice wine, might be among the healthiest foods in the world and are typical slow foods as well.

Local Food
Local food, also called regional food and related to food patriotism, is similar to slow food. It is a principle of sustainability which relies on consumption of food products that are locally grown. It is part of the concept of local purchasing; a preference for buying locally produced goods and services. Local food opposes the idea of global free trade. Food products at large supermarkets around the world create over-consumption of fossil fuels for long-distance transport, compromised food safety, and damage the incomes of local farming households. Proponents of local food often argue that urban supermarkets are “stops for food and products that are tired from long-distance transport.”

Local Slow Food
Seeking and experiencing local slow foods both home and abroad are becoming yet another tourist attraction worldwide.

Slow Fish restaurant (16051 Bolsa Chica - 714.846.6951) here in Huntington Beach offers slow food and when you order the sushi or entree's expect to be pleasantly surprised at the tastiness of the healthy black rice. This new restaurant is quite the find!

"Reduce - Reuse - Recycle" Seminar

That was the title of the first seminar put on by The Friends of Shipley Nature Center, Co-sponsored by the City of Huntington Beach and Rainbow Disposal Company. I attended this seminar and it was well worth it. I figured since we are now switching over to the 3 barrel system of trash pickup, I may as well start using what I'm having to separate. We learned the first steps in creating super mulch - why buy your mulch or soil when you can make it yourself! And believe me, our clay ground needs a little help! Added bonus - help save the environment at the same time! There were over 35 in attendance and I'd love to see that number double next time! Rich Flammer of Hidden Resources in San Diego was our instructor. Shipley will be presenting these FREE seminars on the third Saturday of the month (10:00 - 11:30 am) focusing on "backyard composting and how to turn your garden waste into soil enrichments". The next class is August 18 and it is all about worms. (find the info on the calendar at www.thelocalhb.com).

Blood Drive at Equestrian Center

Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center Blood Drive
In April, the Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center teamed up with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive. They successfully received 23 donations. The Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center will be hosting a second blood drive here at their facility on Tuesday, July 10. They will be offering a coupon toward $10 off a trail ride to all participants. The American Red Cross is also offering special prizes for the Warped Tour. This is a great cause, and they welcome the public to come and take part in this event.

4th of July in Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is once again preparing for its Fourth of July event celebrating the American Spirit. The City of Huntington Beach celebrates 103 years of patriotism in 2007 with the Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade and Celebration. The 2007 festivities offer four full days of entertainment starting July 1st with a huge 4day Family Fun Expo at the famed Huntington Beach Pier. The celebrations include a Main Street home decorating contest, the July 4th Pancake Breakfast at Lake Park, the Surf City 5K Run and FExpo, and the famed 4th of July Parade oMain Street. On the evening of July 4th, a spectacular Fireworks Extravaganza at the Huntington Beach Pier will put a fitting final bang on the celebration. Be sure to bring your entire family out for this event and start a tradition of your own.
Parade Marching bands, military troops, community groups, dignitaries, clowns, equestrians and celebrities make up more than 300 parade entries that will thrill parade goers until just past noon. The103rd Annual Huntington Beach Parade begins at 10 am sharp with hundreds of entries and attractions along the Historic Main Street Parade Route. The parade heads south to Main Street, proceeds up Main through the downtown area, ending at Yorktown Avenue and Main Street. Celebration sponsor, Time Warner Cable television, will be on hand again to tape the Parade for re-broadcast over KOCE later in the day at 3:30 in the afternoon.
The 2007 Celebrity Grand Marshal will be Johnny Grant. As Hollywood’s Honorary Mayor, he has been one of the community’s most enthusiastic supporters for more than 50 years. He also serves as Chairman of the Walk of Fame Selection Committee and the Hollywood Historic Trust.

Pier Plaza Fun Expo & Entertainment - Entertainment will be at Pier Plaza every day of the Expo – Surf Bands, Dancers, Swing Bands, Singers from 12:00 to 9:00 PM. See HBTV Scroll for names and times. It entertain the family with kids’ entertainment, crafts and other delicious treats. The Expo will run 10 am to 9 pm on July 1, 2, and 3. On the day of the parade, the activities will run from 12:30 pm to 8 pm, with entertainment starting at 1 pm. The 4th of July activities will feature live music and a "Children’s Village Expo" on the first three blocks of Main Street from 1 pm to 7 pm. The Expo is located at Pier Plaza at Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway.

Pancake Breakfast in Lake Park
The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach will be hosting a Pancake Breakfast at Lake Park from 7 am to 10 am. Tickets are $5 and will benefit the many important community projects of The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach. The breakfast is located at Lake Park, at Main and 11th Street.

Surf City 5K Run and Fitness Expo
The Annual Huntington Beach 4th of July celebration kicks off with the Surf City Run 5K. The race begins promptly at 7 am, with early registration beginning at 6 am at Huntington Beach
High School. The registration costs for the Surf City Run 5K are $25 before June 17 and $30 after June 17. The Surf City Run benefits the Huntington Beach Jr. Lifeguard program.
The Surf City Run Fitness Expo will be open from 6 am to noon fthe enjoyment of runners and their families in Worth Park at 17thand Main Street. Participants can enjoy a variety of food and refreshments, entertainment and music, and view some of the latest in health and fitness. Entertainment will be provided by local surf band favorite, The Breakaways. For more information on the run or to register online, visit www.surfcityrun.com .

Surf City Kids Run
Everyone is a winner in the popular Thomas Kemper Soda Kids Run. Held after the Surf City Run 5K, kids 6 and under will run. The kids’ races are not timed and all kids receive an official race t-shirt, goodie bag and finish medal. The race begins promptly at 9 am at Huntington Beach High School and will last until 10 am. Registration costs for the event are $13 before June 17 and $17 after June 17.

Fireworks Extravaganza
After the sun sets, grab a seat on the beach for the spectacular fireworks display over the beach. Thousands of fireworks, synchronized to patriotic music will be launched from the pier. K-Earth 101 continues celebrating 35 years of playing "The Greatest Hits on Earth" with live radio from the Pier and will simulcast the fireworks’ musical accompaniment. The show will begin at 9 pm and end by 9:30 pm.
Seating on the Pier can be purchased at a cost of $10. Tickets are available on the 4th of July website at www.hb4thofjuly.org or at the Pier on the July 4th. Or call Kim at 714-536-5486 for more information.



4th of July information provided by the city's Community Connection.

Reality Show on Life Gaurds coming to HB

Reality Show on Lifeguards Got the Okay

A studio got City Council's permission to do a reality series about Surf City lifeguards for Court TV. You may not see bodacious babes in red bathing suits bounding down the city's shoreline in super slow motion any time soon. Those "Baywatch" images wouldn't be part of a 10-part series called "Beach Patrol," to be aired on the Court TV cable channel after the City Council gave its blessing to the production Monday night. "Beach Patrol," a reality show along the lines of Fox Network's "Cops," would stick to what lifeguards do on the job rather than their off-duty antics or personal relationships, said Huntington Beach Marine Safety Lt. Michael Baumgartner. The show will be filmed over the summer. A production crew from Burbank-based Evolution Film and Tape will follow lifeguards seven days a week, capturing their every move on the job, from ocean rescues and medical aids to jelly-fish bites and their interactions with beach-goers, Baumgartner said. "We look at it as an opportunity to showcase what we do as lifeguards and create awareness about beach safety," he said. Evolution Film and Tape also produces the popular reality show, "The Real Housewives of Orange County." City Council members gave city officials the authority to control what goes on film and to take out "embarrassing or unprofessional" portions, if necessary. The studio is also offering the city an $8,000 donation per episode to be used for marine safety programs. Susan Ievoli, a senior publicist for Court TV, declined to talk about the Huntington Beach production because it is "still being developed." "Beach Patrol," which airs in prime time, begins its fourth season July 16 with episodes of lifeguards in Honolulu, Ievoli said. Huntington Beach would potentially be featured for its fifth season. The show consciously steers clear of the type of sensationalism associated with lifeguards, and instead, focuses on their daily heroics and behind-the-scenes action from daring rescues to brawls on the beach, Ievoli said. "Their everyday lives are so dramatic," she said. "We don't feel the need to add more sensationalism to it. We just want to show their importance and heroism." If the show moves forward, it would be the first time Huntington Beach lifeguards were featured on a series-type cable show.
From The Wave: By DEEPA BHARATH and ANNIE BURRIS - STAFF WRITERS

NEW to TheLocalHB.com website!!

New to TheLocalHB.com website. If you are planning on visiting Huntington Beach (or if you are a local and plan on having visitors come in to town), you can now make reservations,at a discount, right off the website!! check it out on the travel page. Here is the direct link: RESERVATIONS
While visiting the site, make sure to check out the calendar for things going on in town. You can also find things to do, shopping & specials, and even buy logo merchandise for locals!
See you around Huntington Beach!

Victoria - Your HB Local
714,231.4623

Press Release - The Local HB

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

HB’s Very Own Goodwill Ambassador
How a Quest for Information Became a Business…

“Huntington Beach is my home and I didn’t know everything
going on here!” was the personal quandary that began Victoria Alberty’s newest online business.

“I’d check out a huge array of websites and don’t get me wrong, some of them are really great”, Alberty says, “But I wanted to know what we could do with our friends IN Huntington Beach. When we travel, I want to know where the locals go, NOT the tourist spots. This way, through ‘The Local HB’, I’m bringing that idea home.”

Alberty talked to a lot of HB Locals and that hurdle seemed to be a common cry throughout the beautiful community of Huntington Beach. Sure, the ‘Independent’ gives us a plethora of information, and there’s always the ‘View’ and ‘The Wave’, but these days, so many people are used to surfing the ‘Net to get their information instead of actually sitting down with a cup of coffee and holding a print publication in their hands. Of course, they can turn to the HB City or Chamber sites, but there wasn’t an online site that was a ‘one-stop-shopping’ for information, discounts, reviews, and ‘local’ happenings.

So Alberty got busy. She began by using a photo taken by a friend took as the basis of her logo. Then she bought the domain name: ‘www.thelocalhb.com’ and began to envision her design ‘plan’ for her website. Only a few close friends were privy to her initial plans and they supported (and encouraged!) her 100%. Of course, all of them were filled with ideas!

“The Local HB” began as a source of information and has turned into her full-time quest, as well as being a favorite desktop icon on numerous computers.

“The Local HB” is totally unconventional. It doesn’t follow a format – it just ‘is’. A hodge-podge of information, it somehow all comes together to give you a total overview of beautiful Huntington Beach. The photos on the site are a combination of events and locations that Alberty takes as well as those contributed by friends and visitors. Alberty attends everything and anything sponsored for and by Huntington Beach and is frequently found chatting with locals, always looking for content to add to the site.

Readers contribute their opinions about local restaurants; submit photos of events they attended and even short digital videos. Businesses are jumping on ‘The Local HB’ bandwagon and advertising on her site, offering a variety of discounts. Several HB hotels distribute her flyer in their rooms so guests can log on to find out what’s happening on the days they’re visiting. Alberty’s friends tout her site and these days, you’ll see a lot of ‘The Local HB’ t-shirts and memorabilia floating around. Her shopping cart is just another of her great additions.

‘The Local HB’ isn’t just a run-of-the-mill website. It IS what HB is all about… Friendly, upbeat, informative and exciting. When you live in Huntington Beach, why should you go anywhere else to add to your day? It’s all right here… Just ask Victoria Alberty!

Now it’s your turn. Go to www.thelocalhb.com and surf through Alberty’s site, and while you’re at it, add a shortcut to your desktop. Don’t forget to share the site with your in-and out-of-town friends, too. Send in your opinions, experiences, pictures, short videos and if you have a business, you just might want to take advantage of the advertising opportunities! Get involved with ‘the Local HB’ and become a part of the best thing to hit Huntington Beach since Jan & Dean!

Press Release by: EFS Internet Marketing

Contact: B. Donohue

bdbdkd@earthlink.net – Email

714-330-5433 – Phone

Calendar for June

Below are some things going on in Huntington Beach for the month of June:

Red Bull Illume Photography Unveiling - June 6 - 17 - 8:30 pm to 10:00 pm
Just north of th epier at Pier Plaza. Experience the most dramatic compilation of action and adventure sports imagery ever assembled! Red Bull Illume Image Quest 2006 was the first-ever international competition to celebrate the world of action and adventure sports photography. Over the course of the contest, thousands of amazing images were submitted from more than 90 countries. Photo editors from PHOTO Magazine, National Geographic Adventure, Surfer Magazine, Skateboarder Magazine, Sports Illustrated, and others were among the specialized individuals who determined which 50 photos stood above the rest. for more information: .www.redbullillume.com

Dance Competition - Thursday, June 7 - 4:30 pm
Our very own HB dance studio, A Global Rhythm, will host a dance competition for the YMCA Youth Achievers in our neighboring town of Costa Mesa at the Presbyterian Church of the Covenant. See Flyer for more information.

Relay for Life - Saturday, June 9/10
American Cancer Society event – Relay for Life – Held at Huntington Beach High School. It is a 24 hr event that celebrates life for cancer survivors and honors those that have passed away. Last year we raised about $65,000 for ACS. This year we hope to break $100,000 and we need volunteers, donations, and most importantly participants. Cancer survivors are treated to gift packs, special recognition and to encourage others in their fight to survive. It is a great event with entertainment, music, food, camping, brotherhood and raising money to fight cancer. For more information: Bradford J. von Grote 714-799-9020

Pankcake Breakfast - Saturday, June 9 - 7:30 am to 11:00 am
Huntington Beach Search & Rescue in association with the Lion's Club of Huntington Beach presents our first annual Pancake Breakfast in the Park. For $5 you will be served an all you can eat pancake breakfast by the members of HBS&R, HB Lion's and Team RESCUE1000. In addition to the breakfast, raffle tickets will be sold for $1 each. Team RESCUE100 will also be selling their team gear . For more information check out their website

Free Fishing Days - June 9
Fish without a license today in Huntington Beach. Bag and size limits still apply.

Beachside Summer Fest - Saturday, June 9 - 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
Free music festival, northside of the Pier. Featuring Phil Wickham, Moi, Superhero, Dancefloor Prophets, Olivia the Band, M.O.D. For more info www.beachsidesummerfest.com or 465-3026

Surfrider Celebrity Surf Jam - June 9 & 10 - 8:30 am to 3:00 pm
The Surfrider Foundation Celebrity Surf Jam features teams of professional surfers, celebrities and pro-athletes competing for the Surfrider Title (in a game format). Public can watch. Location: HB pier, PCH & Main. Call: 949-492-8170 www.surfrider.org

Surfin' Sundays Concert Series - 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
see dates below Summer performances at The International Surfing Museum (parking lot), 411 Olive (@ 5th). Free!For more information: www.surfingmuseum.org June 10 - SoundWaves - special guest Eddie Bertrand from Eddie and the Showmen who is well known for the songs 'Squad Car' and 'Mr. Rebel'.
June 24 - 3 Balls of Fire with guest 60's legend Jerry Cole (this one ends at 4pm)

The Longboard 16th Annual Golf Tournament - June 12
To be held at Sea Cliff Country Club, 6501 Palm; $140/person or $560/foursome. Includes shotgun play, beer, shirt, BBQ dinner, goodies and drawings. 2 man scramble, minimum 7 drives per player, purchase 2 Mulligans per player; putt your own once on the green; prizes for low gross score (men's & women's); prizes for Calloway scoring. Sign up with Heather or Ron at Longboard Pub, 217 Main, HB. Call: (714) 960-1896; publongboa@aol.com

57th Annual Pier Swim - Saturday, June 16 - 8:30 am to 11:00 am
Participants (12 to 60 & up) will swim once around the Huntington Beach Pier, approximately half a mile. Registration is being accepted now through June 7 with a $17 (t-shirt fee), and a $13 (no t-shirt) pre-registration fee. Late entries will be accepted on the day of the swim from 8:00 to 8:30 a.m. only for $15. No wetsuits. First through third place trophies will be awarded in each of the divisions. Call (714) 536-5281 for an entry blank

Summer Sunday Concert Series - 1:00 pm
see dates below - Event Flyer Mark your calendars for the following summer performances at Pier Plaza which start at 1:00 p.m. and are sponsored by Farmers & Merchants Bank:
June 17 - Bob Malone (New Orleans-style blues)
June 24 - Mariachi Divas (mariachi

White Collar Crime: Identity Theft Seminar - Tuesday, June 19 - 7:00 am to 9:00 am
"How Not To Be A Victim Of Identity Theft". Presented by Detectives Larry Pitcher & Chris Nesmith, Huntington Beach Police Department. Covered: What is identity theft? How can thieves steal your identity? What do thieves do with stolen identity: How to find out if your's has been stolen? What is "Phishing" & "Pharming"? How can you help fight identity theft? Location: HB Council Chambers, 2000 Main St. Seating limited. RSVP to HB Chamber of Commerce 536-8888

Dachshund Races - Sunday, June 24 - 7:00 am to 3:00 pm
Old World, 7561 Center Ave. WienerNapolis starts at 2pm admission is $1.00 and parking is FREE

Summer Series of Free Concerts - Beginning June 24 - 5:00 pm
These free concerts are sponsored by the Huntington Beach Concert Band as a community service. The concerts are staged in the picturesque, natural-bowl setting behind Huntington Beach Central Library at 7111 Talbert Avenue at Golden West Street. The Huntington Beach Concert Band is composed of professional and amateur musicians from throughout Orange County area and is commemorating its 33rd year as the cultural representative of the City of Huntington Beach. Bring family, friends, chairs, blankets, & picnic dinner! For additional concert series information call (714) 891-6856

Play: And Then There Was Nun - June 29 to July 15
Huntington Beach Playhouse at the Central Library Theater, 7111 Talbert Ave. Stylized after Agatha Christie's Ten Little Indians, the story revolves around ten members of the Holy Order of the Sisters of San Andreas who have gathered to meet at Grauman's Chinese Island for their annual retreat. $20 tickets. For moe information: 714-375-0696 or

News about our trash!

Coming Soon - Cleaner, More Modern Trash Collection!

On July 3, 2006 City Council approved revisions to the existing solid waste contract with Rainbow Disposal to allow Rainbow to implement automated trash collection in Huntington Beach. This modern new system will bring Huntington Beach's recycling efforts to a higher level of efficiency. What does this mean for Huntington Beach residents?There will be no change to the existing trash rate. Residential curbside collection customers will receive 3 new, heavy-duty 95-gal. wheeled trash carts from Rainbow Disposal-one each for recyclables, green waste, and trash. Residents will be expected to participate in the recycling effort by sorting their waste into the proper carts. Households will have the option to choose a smaller container size, and to request additional recyclable or green waste carts at no extra charge, subject to program regulations and limitations. Additional trash carts will also be available, subject to program regulations and limitations and a one-time fee of $75. The cart sizes and dimensions are: 95-gallon cart: 45.38" high x 28.70" wide x 33.75" deep65-gallon cart: 40.125" high x 26.50" wide x 28.11" deep35-gallon cart: 39.13" high x 20" wide x 22.96" deep(The depth refers to the dimension of the cart from front to back. Wheels in back.) When will the new collection system begin?The new collection method is scheduled to begin in mid-2007. Why doesn't the city just start the new system now?The city cannot begin automated collection until its contractor, Rainbow Disposal, has the proper fleet and facilities in place. Rainbow is in the process of remodeling and modernizing its Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) to accommodate source-separated recyclables. Additionally, Rainbow has ordered a new fleet of quiet, low-emissions trash trucks, which will be equipped with a hydraulic arm to lift the large capacity trash carts. Why will residents be charged for recycling if they are sorting their own trash?The existing rate structure will not change, including the $3.00 recycling fee. With the new system, residents will be expected to separate recyclable materials from the trash, and place all recyclables in the blue recycling cart. These commingled recyclables must still be sorted and processed by type (paper, glass, various plastics, aluminum, etc.) at the MRF. The fee will continue to pay for the cost of processing recyclables at the MRF. The advantage of the new system is that contamination will be greatly reduced, which allows Rainbow to recover more material. The result is less waste to the landfill and increased recycling for Huntington Beach. What will residents do with their bulky items, such as appliances and furniture?The city recognizes that Huntington Beach residents will need a method to dispose of excess waste and oversized items. The new agreement with Rainbow establishes the new "10/4 Pick-up Program," which will allow households to schedule special collections of up to 10 items per appointment. Each household may do this 4 times per year. Qualifying items include excess trash bags (that won't fit in the trash cart), appliances, furniture, and mattresses.

Worthy News

A big congrats to one of our own locals.

Adel Francis, owns Fantastic Sams in Bella Terra had an article show up in the Orange County Register about doing business as a couple. Of course it was about him and his wife, Lillian.
Check out the article here

See you around HB

Operation Hugs & Kisses

Short notice, I know, but there's still time to get involved in the HB City-wide campaign to send a valentine to the "Thundering Third" Marine division, based in Camp Pendleton.....also known as the 3/1 Marines. The 3/1 Marines were "officially adopted" by Huntington Beach a little over a year ago, to provide support in a variety of ways.....and this "Operation Hugs & Kisses" is easy for everyone to get involved.

This is to request you conduct your own efforts to get valentines in envelopes collected and delivered by February 6th. Cards can be made or purchased....but no larger than a standard card (please). In addition, if you would like to send a customized candy bar (being purchased to give w/the Valentines) - you can add a check for $2.50 each with your Valentine (made payable to the HB 3/1 Marines Foundation.

Address the valentines to "Dear Marine"....or ..."To a Special Marine".....
Cards need to be delivered to "Mailbox Express" - at the Newland Center at Beach & Adams by end of the day - Tuesday, Feb. 6th. You can also deliver them to the office of Pat Rogers (contact info below), and she will take them to Mailbox Express Tues., afternoon.

Contact for this project:

Pat Rogers, SCMD
Marketing Director
Bella Terra, Huntington Beach
7777 Edinger Avenue, Suite 133 Huntington Beach, CA 92647
714 897 2534 Tel 714-894-7686 Fax
pat.rogers@cbre.com

A Post submitted by a HB local

On The Local HB website, there are several locations where people can submit comments. Below is one of the recent comments posted to the site.
See you around the HB
Victoria,
Your HB Local
www.thelocalhb.com
------------------------------

Dear Ms. Local HB,

At quite an expense, the American Legion Post 113 erected three flagpoles in the Promenade area of the HB Pier. My husband and I walk there EVERY DAY...

For the past few months, NONE of the four flags that are SUPPOSED to be flying ARE flying. This is a direct 'slap' to every Veteran who has served our country, not to mention our Citizens who cherish - and find comfort - in the flying of these flags.

In the past, the four flags - our USA flag, the flag of California, the city flag and our POW flag waved gently in the wind... Many times we watched people watching the flags - smiling - taking photographs - and seeing their PRIDE as they looked at the flags. It is a symbol of unity that all of us so badly need right now.

We understand too that the flags were donated by the American Legion - so why does the City NOT make an effort to keep these flags flying?

Thank you!

Barb & Bob Donohue
PROUD Citizens of Huntington Beach, the State of California, the United States of America and the daughter of a POW

Discounts for Locals!

As you’ve probably seen on the website, there is a “locals card” offering discounts at various downtown locations. Beginning at the start of 2007, you will find the below participants: (Present your card at their location to receive your discount)

Grange & Associates - Top producing, professional real estate advisors and agents.
$500 credit towards buyer or seller real estate closing costs
19440 Goldenwest (Star Real Estate)
Eden Salon & Spa - Relax and unwind at this Aveda Concept salon with spa amenities.
10% off all services and products
18585 Beach Bl. (between Main & Ellis). 847.0916
NO KA OI – Hawaiian cuisine and posh meets flip-flops at this esteemed HB eatery. Daily $6 Chicken Nacho special and 25% off food on Tuesday “Locals Night”
215 Main St. 714-960-8300
CHIMAYO AT THE BEACH – A delicious array of Coastal Seafood with amazing ocean views. 20% off food every night
315 Pacific Coast Hwy 714-374-7273
LUGGATTI’S ITALIAN GRILL Offering a wonderful blend of traditional Italian cuisine and some all American favorites! 20% off food on Tuesdays “Locals Night” (excluding alcohol)
210 West 5th St. 714-536-8846
HB BEER COMPANY - Huntington’s finest brewpub, loaded with flat screen TV's! 20% off food and beverage (Monday-Thursday only)
201 Main Street - 714-960-5343
LAVENDER MEMORY FLOWERS & GIFTS – The finest floral arrangements and gifts for any occasion! 20% off all products and services
18021 Beach Blvd - 1-800-409-8977
JACKS SURFBOARDS - The icon of surf retailing since 1957! 15% off non-sale clothing
101 Main St.- 1-888-99-JACK
PIERSIDE GALLERY - Fine art gallery and local framing specialists! 20% off Custom Framing
300 PCH - 800-959-7979
CULT INDUSTRIES – Cutting-edge Surf wear company, direct from Australia! 15% off apparel
328 Main Street - 714 960 5500
SUSHI on FIRE – Serving H301 Main Street - 714-374-8885untington’s tastiest sushi in a swank, modern setting! Complimentary Crunchy Roll “A” with food orders over $20

The program officially begins just after the New Year. A 2007 card can be mailed at that time. If you or your friends may want a card, please email their name and address to:
Kevin Grange — kgrange@starrealestate.com