The "Spark of Love" Campaign began in 1993 in cooperation with ABC 7 and local firefighters throughout the five-county areas of Orange, Riverside, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Ventura. Last year alone, the "Spark of Love" Toy Drive collected and distributed over 300,000 toys to children in Orange County communities who may have otherwise gone without during the holiday season.
An estimated 600,000 toys were collected throughout the five counties participating in the campaign. The Huntington Beach Fire Department will collect and contribute toys for the Project Self Sufficiency Holiday Party.
Although there are other worthwhile toy drives, the ABC 7 and Firefighters "Spark of Love" campaign is the only one started and conducted by firefighters. As in the past, the Orange County "Spark of Love" Toy Drive will combine efforts with the Marines - Toys for Tots and Social Services Agency - Operation Santa Claus. Together, these campaigns will collectively gather toys to be disseminated to the various charitable organizations throughout Orange County through one central warehouse.
All fire stations in Huntington Beach along with the civic center lobby, the police department lobby and the Central Library will serve as drop-off sites for the public to bring new, unwrapped toys or sports equipment.
Through the "Spark of Love" Toy Drive, the holiday spirit will be felt throughout our communities as well as in the hearts of less fortunate children. Boxes will be set up from November 24 through December 24, 2006. For additional information, please contact Martha Werth in the fire department at (714) 536-5419.
City Website offers innovative service
Want to easily find out where your polling place is located, what days your street is swept or the nearest parks and schools? Soon you will be able to do this and more at the City of Huntington Beach website: www.surfcity-hb.org
A new program called My Huntington Beach has been developed by Information Services staff using the City's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and web development resources.
From the main City web page, you will be able to click the My Huntington Beach icon, enter your Huntington Beach street address, and services provided to that address are listed in text and displayed on interactive maps.
Pictured are the My HB screens that show you what will be available on the new site. You will simply put in your address and street name, then the site will provide you with information about your city services. For more detail, you can click on the "one mile buffer" and see an interactive map.
American Flag Proudly Waves at the Oak View Library
On Wednesday, November 8th, American Legion Huntington Beach Post 133 presented a set of flags to the Oak View Library. These were: an American flag on a bracket outside the library and two flags on poles inside the library, one being the American Flag and the other the California State Flag.
Michael Johnson of the American Legion read out a proclamation declaring their, "Support, recognition and appreciation of outstanding service and assistance provided by those organizations and volunteers who have promoted Americanism and Literacy to the Oak View Community.
Receiving the flags were: Ron Hayden, director of the HB Public Library, Anna Combs, Literacy Specialist and Claudia Locke, Oak View Librarian.
This presentation was facilitated by Janed Sax, President of Literacy Volunteers Board of Directors, Huntington Beach Public Library.
Calendar Raises Funds for Bolsa Chicas
The Bolsa Chica Land Trust is pleased to announce the release of their 2007 "Wings Over Bolsa" wall calendar. Featuring the work of local photographers, all of the stunning images were taken at Bolsa Chica. This is the fourth consecutive year for the calendar, with last year's edition a sell-out. Proceeds help with the Land Trust's continuing preservation and restoration efforts at Bolsa Chica.
The cost is $10 each plus shipping, or five for $39.95 plus shipping. They can be ordered by calling (714) 846-1001, by emailing the Land Trust at bclt@bolsachicalandtrust.org, or by using the order form at www.bolsachicalandtrust.org. Calendars may also be purchased in person from select merchants throughout Huntington Beach or at the Land Trust office on Warner Ave.
Entertainment Books make great Christmas gifts
Once again, Entertainment Coupon Books are being offered! These Books offer great values in the way of significantly reduced rates for Hotels, Movies, Theatres (including our very own H.B. Playhouse), Restaurants and Attractions of all sorts. Needless to add, they make great gifts at Holiday time and save precious time shopping for "stuff" that all too often gets returned anyway! It might even pay dividends to keep one handy when planning on getting the most out of one's vacation as well. While most attractions are Orange County-based, many of the locales and best values offered have sites in other counties and even other states (including Hawaii). All coupons are "good" thru November 2007, so the sooner a Book is acquired, the longer one has to contemplate at one's leisure and enjoy accordingly. Books will not be available much beyond Thanksgiving, so if you are thinking of acquiring one, do not put that thought off too long!. The prices is $35. Those interested may contact: Police Dept-Darrin Kossky @ 5944, City Yard-Julie Bott @ 5522, or Arnie Ross @ 5238.
Handy Crafters Sale at City Hall
The Handy Crafters will hold a craft bazaar in the lobby of City Hall on Thursday, December 7,P 2006. Browse their handmade baby clothes, scarves, sweaters, and holiday items for your holiday gifts. All the proceeds from the sale benefit the Huntington Beach Senior Services Holiday Meals program and other special programs that benefit seniors.
The Handy Crafters are a group of volunteers who meet at Rodgers Seniors' center each Friday morning at 10:30 a.m. Each week day, their beautiful work is on display in the lobby at Rodgers and can be purchased from the front desk. A broader selection is available at their Friday meetings.
The Handy Crafters also donate baby items to Western Medical Center, baby hats to CHOC, afghans to the V.A. hospital and to the homeless. All are welcome to join this group and it is a true melting pot. There are crafters from 10 different countries with as many languages represented. Beginners are welcome as well. Materials and instruction are provided.
Friday afternoon at the Movies
The secret is out. The attendance is rising. No lines, no tickets to purchase to enjoy an afternoon at the movies complete with popcorn and drinks. Michael E. Rodgers Seniors' Center, 1706 Orange Avenue is showing free movies on Fridays at 12:30 p.m. The movies for December include, Chronicles of Narnia, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe on December 1st and The Santa Clause on December 15th.
Chronicles of Narnia, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe rated PG is based on C.S. Lewis's classic novel. This enchanting tale follows four London children who are sent away to a country home for safety during World War II. There, they discover a magical wardrobe that leads them to the mystical land of Narnia, ruled by an evil witch.
The Santa Clause is rated PG. This Christmas, the snow hits the fan. When Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) accidentally kills Santa, he suddenly finds himself saddled with the job of jolly Saint Nick. With clever forays into the mysteries of Santa and Allen's hilarious transformation from Scrooge into a true believer, The Santa Clause will delight kids as well as grown-ups.
Movies selected are based on suggestions from the audience. Look for movie suggestion forms near the popcorn machine or at the front desk at Rodgers Seniors' Center. For more information call 714-536-9387.
Council on Aging hosts New Year's Dance
Dance into the New Year with the swinging sounds of the Bob Warren Trio. The Huntington Beach Council on Aging hosts their annual New Year's Eve Ballroom Dance on December 31, 2006 from 8:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at Michael E. Rodgers Seniors' Center, 1706 Orange Avenue. The evening will include live Big Band music, an All-You-Can-Eat Italian Buffet Dinner, beverages, dessert and the "Grand Countdown Champagne Toast." Singles are welcome. Tickets are $30.00 and are on sale now. This event sells out every year. Get your ticket today at Rodgers Seniors' Center front counter.
The Council on Aging is a non-profit organization that supports programs and services for Huntington Beach Seniors through the Michael E. Rodgers Seniors' Center and the Huntington Beach Seniors' Outreach Center. For more information, please call the Michael E. Rodgers Seniors' Center at 714-536-9387.
Youth Board raises record amount due to help of local business
The Huntington Beach Youth Board, a nine member board appointed by the City Council, held a successful fundraiser on Saturday and Sunday, November 18 and 19. The Johnsonville Brats truck made its way to the Albertson's Shopping Center at Yorktown and Main Street.
Youth Board members, along with parents and friends, volunteered their efforts on both days receiving donations from happy Thanksgiving shoppers at the Albertson's Shopping Center.
John Oborny, General Store Manager of Albertsons, once again showed his community spirit by generously donating all the drinks, buns, condiments and chips for this fundraising event, which allowed the Youth Board to realize 100 percent of the profit. Mr. Oborny has become a staple in the community for his generosity and community participation.
The Johnsonville folks supplied the delicious bratwurst and the facilities to make this one of the most spectacular fundraising events within Huntington Beach.
The Youth Board wishes to thank Mr. Oborny and his staff at Albertsons for their continued support to the Youth Board and the community as a whole.
The fundraising event made a profit of $3,200 for the Youth Board which will go towards Youth in Government Day to be held in April, 2007. This event has been well received by all four high schools of Huntington Beach, allowing approximately 170 youths to shadow city employees in their everyday work routines. Many leaders have had their start on the Youth Board, including successful lawyers, doctors, business persons, and government leaders.
Dog Owners are reminded to keep their furry friends on a leash
The Huntington Beach Police Department and Orange County Animal Control want to remind residents that they must keep their dogs on a leash when in public areas.
Recently, we have received increased complaints about dogs being allowed off-leash in the public parks. They are concerned for the safety of the small children and elderly adults.
The Huntington Beach Police Department and Orange County Animal Control will be increasing enforcement of the ordinances governing these activities. Please be considerate of others and avoid an enforcement contact by keeping your dog on a leash when in public.
The HB Municipal Code is 13.48.025 and the fine is $250.
Pajama Storytime at the Library
The Central Library offers a variety of programs and activities for children! In addition to participating in weekly storytimes and crafts, kids can visit the Children's Department for computer and Internet access. Visit our website at www.hbpl.org for a listing of our regularly scheduled storytimes. You can also call the Children's Library at (714) 375-5107.
Special Upcoming Events for December 2006:
Family Evening Pajama Storytime with Miss Barbara
Tabby Storytime Theater -- FREE
Thursday, December 14, 2006 7:00 PM
Come celebrate the Winter Holidays with stories, songs, puppets and more! Wear your pajamas and bring your teddy bear. Refreshments provided by the National Charity League.
Winter Fun Storytime with Miss Mary-Pat
Tabby Storytime Theater -- FREE
Friday, December 29, 2006 10:00 and 11:00 AM
Be sure not to miss our special family storytime the Friday of Christmas week. All other regularly scheduled storytimes for that week have been canceled due to the holidays.
Rodgers Seniors' Center celebrates the holidays
Mele Kalikimaka! Join the Aloha Seniors on Tuesday, December 19th from 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. for a free island style holiday celebration at Michael E. Rodgers Seniors' Center. Santa will be surfin' in to give free stocking gifts to the first 100 guests. Enjoy a hula performance by the Aloha Seniors.
The Aloha Seniors meet every Tuesday at Rodgers from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. and extend the Aloha spirit to all by sharing and teaching the dance, crafts and sounds of the Islands to all levels.
On Thursday, December 14, 2006 beginning at 1:00 p.m , the Huntington Beach Council on Aging will host a Holiday Luncheon at Michael E.Rodgers Seniors' Center. Delight in festive entertainment, great company, delicious food and gift baskets. Prepay $5.00 at the Rodgers front counter.
The Council on Aging is officially recognized by the Huntington Beach City Council as representing its local senior citizens. Michael E. Rodgers Seniors' Center is located at 1706 Orange Avenue. For more information about either of these events, contact 714-536-93
Clerk's Office is the place for your passport
The Huntington Beach City Clerk's Office, located at the Huntington Beach Civic Center, 2PndP Floor, 2000 Main Street (at Yorktown Avenue), offers passport acceptance services that include: processing of first-time passports and passport renewals, photos, pleasant surroundings, convenient, friendly service and no long lines!
When it rains, it pours . . . Pollutants
Managing Stormwater During the Rainy Season
The rainy season is back. Time for umbrellas, raincoats, and….the first flush? The first flush is the first significant rainfall after a long period of dry weather. This rain flushes months of accumulated pollutants such as litter, lawn clippings, pesticides, motor oil, and pet waste from impervious surfaces such as rooftops, driveways, parking lots, and roadways down storm drains. Unlike water that flows through sewers (from sinks and toilets), water that flows through storm drains is not treated before entering our creeks, rivers, bays, and ocean.
Impervious surfaces cover soil that would allow stormwater to soak into the ground. By not allowing stormwater to soak into the ground, these surfaces significantly increase the amount of water that runs off the land. Always on the move, water flows downhill, over and through the land picking up pollutants, and sending them to the nearest waterway.
This is called stormwater pollution. However, by preparing for the rain, you can help reduce stormwater pollution and improve the health of our creeks, rivers, bays, and ocean.
Maintaining your landscape can help reduce pollution in our waterways. Preserve existing vegetation as much as possible. Plants are a natural, inexpensive and highly effective means for controlling runoff. Runoff slows down and loses much of its force when it reaches vegetation, which works as a filter, straining out sediment, debris and other pollutants.
During these upcoming wet-weather months, it is important to closely monitor your lawn watering habits and adjust your watering schedule to reflect the weather conditions. During the rainy season, landscaped areas need less water. A heavy rainfall can eliminate the need for watering for up to two weeks. Therefore, increase the number of days between watering and reduce the amount of time sprinklers are operating. Also, shut off your sprinklers or use the rain-delay feature before and during rainy weather. When you avoid unnecessary watering, more rain can soak into your landscape and less runs off into the storm drain.
Leaves may have collected in the rain gutters along your roof over the summer. Remove the debris from the gutter and place it in a green waste container before it rains and clogs your gutter. Also, direct downspouts and gutters to drain onto your lawn or plant beds where water will soak into the soil.
Erosion is another peril of heavy rain. To help prevent soil from leaving your property, examine your area carefully. Be aware of the slope, drainage patterns and soil types. If your property is prone to erosion, consider the following:
- Plant grass seed or other vegetation before the fall rains begin.
- Apply netting and straw mulch on steep slopes.
- Preserve trees and shrubs in streamside areas.
- Incorporate existing native vegetation into your landscape area.
- Direct water runoff away from areas subject to erosion.
- Minimize impervious surfaces such as concrete and asphalt and maximize the absorption capacity of your land through vegetation.
Do your part! Remember, the Ocean Begins At Your Front Door. For more information about what you can do to prevent water pollution or to report a water pollution problem, contact the Orange County Stormwater Program at 714-567-6363 or visit www.ocwatersheds.com.
Community Volunteers are needed to conduct survey of Homeless
In January 2007, the County of Orange and its non-profit partners, 2-1-1 Orange County and OC Partnership, will be conducting the second biennial countywide homeless population count.
The providers of homeless services in Orange County regularly seek grant funding from state and federal agencies, and private funders to support their efforts countywide. This "Point-In-Time" count of the county's homeless population helps to confirm the need for these funds, and can be used to adjust service needs as appropriate.
Do you qualify to volunteer?
- Are you over the age of 18? For those under 18, with parental approval, there may still be a role for you!
- Can you walk 1 to 2 miles unassisted, as a potential enumerator and/or surveyor?
Main Street Library will hold its Holiday Book Sale
The Main Street Library Volunteers will hold their Annual Holiday Book Sale from Saturday, December 2 through Saturday, December 16. They will offer an assortment of gift quality used books, movies & music, and all items will be half-price the last three days of the sale.
All proceeds will benefit the Main Street Branch Library. The Library is located at 525 Main Street.
Mayor honors City Employees
Public Works Maintenance Service Worker Marcia Dunbar was selected to represent all the employees at the Council Meeting because of her long time dedicated service working in the Streets Division on the slurry crew. Marcia has worked for the City for more than 16 years.
November Television Schedule for Channel Three
| Community Bulletin Board | All Day, Everyday |
| City Council Meetings | December 4@ 6:00 pm Rebroadcast Dec. 5 @ 10 am & Dec. 6 @ 7 pm December 18 @ 6:00 pm Rebroadcast Dec. 19 @ 10 am & Dec. 20 @ 7 pm |
| Planning Commission Mtgs | There will be no televised Planning Planning Commission Meetings in December |
Informational programming will be running on Channel 3 according to the following schedule: (Subject to change) Mondays from 9 am to noon, Wednesdays from 2 pm to 5 pm, Fridays from 6 pm to 9 pm, Saturdays from 10 am to 1 pm.
The Classic Arts programming runs Sundays 8 am to noon and 7 pm to 11 pm; Mondays 2 pm to 6 pm; Tuesdays 5 pm to 7 pm; Wednesdays 8 am to noon; Thursdays 3 pm to 7 pm; Fridays 8 am to noon; and Saturdays 4 pm to 6 pm and 8 pm to 10 pm.