Monthly Online Newsletter - April 2004
Sports Complex to open April 24
The Huntington Beach Central Park Sports Complex will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, April 24th at 6:00 pm. The celebration begins with remarks from the City Council and Community Services department, and continues with free food, games and entertainment, along with a variety of demonstration games on the newly dedicated fields.
The celebration is open to the entire Huntington Beach community! Residents can gather to take part in the festivities with their families and friends. Youth and adult sports organizations can participate in the event by providing a variety of sports teams for demonstration games. 
If you have not yet seen the beautiful new facility, drive by and take a look! The complex is located at Huntington Beach Central Park, between Goldenwest and Gothard Streets at Talbert Avenue. The Community Services Department is now taking reservations to use the beautiful Huntington Beach Central Park Sports Complex. If you would like more information, or would like a reservation, please call the Community Services department at 536-5486.
Mark Carnahan presented with March Mayor’s Award
At the March 15, 2004 City Council meeting, Mark Carnahan was awarded the Mayor’s Award for excellent customer service. Mark was hired by the Building & Safety Department in 1998 and prior to coming to Huntington Beach worked in the construction industry for eight years.
In 2001, Mark was assigned as a full time building inspector for the Hyatt Hotel construction project. He proved to be an invaluable asset during the construction of this major project by providing the contractor and sub-contractors with advice on numerous code issues in a friendly and positive manner.
Pictured with Mark are Building and Safety Director Ross Cranmer, Mayor Green, Mark’s wife Bettina and daughters Alina and Anica.
Scouts help with planting of trees
On Saturday, March 13, 16-year-old Boy Scout Daniel Priver (Troop 558) gathered over 85 volunteers to help complete his Eagle Project. On Saturday, March 27, Boy Scout Henry Grumet (Troop 1226) will complete a duplicate Eagle project with the help of volunteers.
Each scout oversees the planting of 50, 15-gallon Sycamore trees in the undeveloped portion of Central Park between Ellis Avenue and the Huntington Beach Equestrian Center. Both scouts coordinated their efforts with the city Public Works Parks, Trees and Landscape personnel who pre-augered the holes, and the Huntington Beach Tree Society who purchased the 100 trees.
Trees in this area are not only esthetically pleasing, but will help to absorb the run-off from neighboring yards. Over-watering and over-fertilizing cause nitrogen-laden water to course through this section of parkland. If left unimpeded, the water will drain into Huntington Lake, causing pollution. Many thanks to the scouts and volunteers who took part in these two special projects.
Easter Hunt will be held April 10
The City of Huntington Beach, Community Services Department, and the Kiwanis Club will present the Eleventh Annual Easter Hunt on Saturday, April 10th in Huntington Central Park.
There will be an Easter hunt, game booths, entertainment, exhibits, and refreshments. Festivities will be from 9:30 a.m. to noon adjacent to the Central Park picnic area off Edwards Avenue and Central Park Drive. 
Easter hunt times are as follows:
| Exceptional children | 9:30 a.m. |
| 2 years and under | 10:00 a.m. |
| 3-4 years old | 10:30 a.m. |
| 5-6 years old | 11:00 a.m. |
| 7-8 years old | 11:30 a.m. |
So, bring your children and enjoy the Easter holiday. For further information, please call 536-5486.
Oak View Skate Park is dedicated
Recreational opportunities have expanded in the Oak View neighborhood with a new skate park constructed at Oak View Park. Phase I of the park was completed on February 6, with a formal dedication being held February 26th.
Phase I consists of 1,630 square feet and includes ramps and rails. The facility was funded through a Community Development Block Grant. Support for the Oak View Skate Park came after youth residing in the area approached both the Community Services Commission and the City Council.
The skate park was dedicated on February 26, with the mayor and council members in attendance. The park’s features were also put to the test courtesy of an exhibition provided by Factory skaters courtesy of Huntington Surf and Sport Skate Shop.
Art Center Exhibit runs through April 18
The Huntington Beach Art Center is presenting a solo exhibition in the main galleries. Beyond Craft: Paul Soldner features ceramics, monoprints and bronzes by the 
internationally renowned artist Paul Soldner. The exhibition includes approximately 35 pieces of his work and ranges from the 1989 through 2003. Featured are large scale ceramics, 2 bronze works, and 12 monoprints. Paul Soldner resides in Southern California and Aspen, Colorado and maintains a studio at both locations. The exhibition is scheduled from March 20 - April 18th.
The Huntington Beach Art Center is a community art center that provides local citizens and a regional audience with opportunities for exposure to and involvement in the arts. Programs include contemporary exhibitions, performances, gallery/studio tours, lectures, films, family festivals, and an active studio program, which offers classes, workshops, and the popular art camps for children.
The Huntington Beach Art Center is a public/private partnership between the City of Huntington Beach and the Huntington Beach Art Center Foundation. During its eight years of operation, the Art Center has achieved a regional and national reputation for featuring the work of emerging artists from all backgrounds and viewpoints. The Center is located at 538 Main Street. For more information on exhibitions, programs, and gallery hours please call the Art Center at 714/374-1650.
Oil Well erupts leaving residents needing cleanup
Residents near Magnolia and Hamilton woke up March 17th to an unpleasant smell and 
found oil splattered on their cars, homes, pools and their outdoor furniture.
City fire and public works staff were quick on the site of the gushing oil well to ensure the safety of the community.
The oil well is located adjacent to the former Ascon Landfill site at the northwest corner of Magnolia and Hamilton. The property is owned by Cannery Hamilton L.L.C. and the owner of the well was contacted.
A team of federal, state, county and city staff was assembled to secure the safety 
of the residents and ensure the neighborhood received immediate cleanup attention.
A public assistance line was set-up for residents to call and make an appointment for a claims adjuster. Residents were provided information on the progress through flyers distributed by CERT volunteers and through three community meetings.
Property Owner Cannery Hamilton L.L.C. was quick to respond to the needs of the residents and clean-up of the area is almost complete.
Bella Terra to hold ground breaking on April 22
Over the last few years, the City of Huntington Beach’s Redevelopment Agency has acted as a catalyst for the renovation of the former Huntington Mall. After many years of working with various property owners and developers “Bella Terra” is now about ready to be reconstructed. A ground breaking ceremony is scheduled for April 22nd at 11:00 am. The ceremony will be held in the area between Barnes and Noble and Kohl’s. The public is invited to attend.
The former mall is now being transformed into an Open Air Entertainment/Lifestyle complex. 
The first phase of the project was the renovation of the former Broadway building into Kohl’s Department Store. Kohl’s opened in March of 2003. The redevelopment of the remainder of the project will continue this spring. Century Theaters is scheduled to build an all-stadium 5,000-seat 20-screen cinema complex that will anchor the transformation of the Mall.
Upon completion, Bella Terra will provide over 765,991 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment space with over 60 shops and restaurants. Other businesses that have committed to be at the center include: Johnny Rockets, Ben & Jerry’s, Corner Bakery, Krispy Kreme, Cost Plus, Pure Beauty and many more. In addition to enhanced surface parking, a new parking structure will be constructed to further accommodate the customers of Bella Terra.
July 4th Centennial Celebration
On July 4th the waters off our shore will reflect fireworks shot from a barge into the night sky! It's expected to be the largest fireworks display over water on the West Coast and one befitting the 100th anniversary of our city's 4th of July Parade. Volunteers are needed to help make the Centennial a great success. The 4th of July begins early with the Surf City 5K Run and Fitness Expo followed by the 100th Annual Parade at 10:00 a.m. and the evening Fireworks Spectacular. Contact Mary Ellen Cianciabella at 714/847-5437 to offer your time.
Merchandise is now available on the 4th of July website and at California Greetings, 6 blocks north of the Pier on Main Street. Beginning Memorial Day weekend, look for merchandise street vendor carts at the pier and on Main Street.
Watch for updates on the July Fourth Centennial on the City’s website at www.surfcity-hb.org. Just click on the parade logo for information.
Public Works to begin flushing water system
Beginning Tuesday, February 10, 2004, the City of Huntington Beach Public Works Utilities Division will be implementing a water main flushing program starting at the north end of town. The program is performed every two years and helps maintain the quality of the water in the distribution system.
Over the course of the next four months, Utilities Division crews will be operating fire hydrants in order to flush the system. Residents may experience some discoloration of their water. This is only temporary and is not harmful. If discoloration persists, or if residents have questions pertaining to the flushing program, they should call the Utilities Division at 714-536-5921.
Passport Services available at City Hall
If your future travel plans call for a destination beyond the borders of the United States, then you either need a new passport or you may want to check your current passport to make sure it is up-to-date.
The City of Huntington Beach, through the City Clerk’s Office, has been designated as a United States Acceptance Facility for people needing a passport for the first time, as well as for people needing to renew their existing passport.
The City Clerk’s Office also provides information packets to help you expedite your application for a Passport. Located at the Huntington Beach City Hall, 2000 Main Street, on the 2nd floor, it is open Monday thru Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., including lunchtime hours. For more information call 714-374-1600.
Sandbags available to public
When it is raining, or rain is imminent, free sandbags and sand are available to Huntington Beach residents at the city’s Public Works Corporation Yard located at 17371 Gothard Street (between Slater and Warner Avenues).
This service is available during working hours only, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Sandbags are for resident use. Identification verifying residence in Huntington Beach is required. There is a limit of 10 bags per person. While sand is available, residents are required to bring their own shovel and to fill the bags themselves.
For more information, please call the Corporation Yard at (714) 960-8861. The city does not collect bags after the rainy season – it is the responsibility of the resident to dispose of the sand and bag.
Support your City -
Shop, play and stay in Huntington Beach!
The City of Huntington Beach wants to encourage all residents to commit to spending your money within the city limits of Huntington Beach. Each resident 
can make a big difference by keeping sales tax dollars in the city to provide critical services such as police, fire, parks and recreation and library programs.
In the year 2003, the City of Huntington Beach faced a severe budget shortfall and because of trimming the budget and continuing to run a “lean, mean public service machine,” we have been able to keep providing the services to residents that they deserve.
Revenues from sales taxes, and transient occupancy taxes paid at hotels and motels, help provide the services we all need and enjoy. Local support of restaurants, shops, caterers and services strengthens our local economy. One person truly can make a difference and your resolution to “Shop, Play and Stay,” in Huntington Beach will help our community continue to grow and prosper.
Surf City Huntington Beach Visa Card
What better reminder to Shop, Play and Stay in Huntington Beach than a Surf City credit card? The new Surf City Huntington Beach Visa is now available. The City will receive $20 for every new card issued, plus 10.4 cents for every $100 spent. The funds will be directed to Parks & Recreation, Libraries, Cultural Programs and the General Fund to support city services.
Watch for application information in your utility bills, and at the City website www.surfcity-hb.org. You can also stop by the local US Bank Branch at 9042 Garfield Avenue to sign up for the card. Be among the first businesses, residents and surf fans to carry the Surf City Visa.
Regular use of the card for everyday purchases like groceries and gasoline help preserve and enhance the Huntington Beach lifestyle, especially when you Shop, Play and Stay in Huntington Beach! For more information on the Surf City Huntington Beach Visa Card or other Economic Development issues, check out www.hbbiz.com or contact Economic Development staff by phone at (714) 536-5542.
Mayor visits Sharon Osborne Show
Mayor Cathy Green was a special guest on the Sharon Osborne show January 14th. The Mayor presented “OC” star Peter Gallagher with a key to the City following the entrance of Huntington Beach High Marching Band.
After the show, Peter Gallagher posed with the group for photos. He was presented with a goodie bag of Surf City stuff and invited to participate in the July Fourth Parade.
Scenes from A Taste of Huntington Beach
Supporters of the Huntington Beach Children’s Library enjoyed a feast from 40 different restaurants and 10 different wineries on Sunday, March 28th at the “Taste of Huntington Beach.” The event was held at the Hyatt Spa and Resort with more than 2,000 tickets sold at $40 each and $50 at the door.
Left to right shown: Rocky Mountain Chocolate provided samples; Duke’s brought a variety of different taste treats; beer and wine samples were available; and, entertainment was provided by dancers and bands.
April 1, 2004
Exhibition of Ceramics
Weekly: Sunday - 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Wednesday - 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Thursday - 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Friday and Saturday - 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Huntington Beach Art Center 538 Main Street
Cost: FREE Phone: 714-374-1650
Farmer's Market and Art A-Fair
Weekly: Friday - 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
This popular shopping event is held most Fridays at the outdoor Pier Plaza adjacent to the Huntington Beach Pier. Call: (714) 536-2213 or (714) 846-5509.
Location: Pier Plaza - Pacific Coast Highway at Main Street
April 3, 2004
Saturday Sunrise Car Cruisers
Weekly: Saturday - 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Billed as the Best Free Car Show in the World, this Saturday morning event has been a tradition for over 15 years. Classic auto owners known as the Donut Derelicts meet at the parking lot on the corner of Magnolia and Adams near Adams Avenue Donuts to share stories and admire their classic beauties.
Location: Magnolia at Adams
Newland House Museum
Weekly: Wednesday and Thursday - 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM
Saturday and Sunday - 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Built in 1898, this is the oldest, best preserved and most historically significant example of early homes in Huntington Beach. Open to public and by appointment for groups of 10 or more.
Location: 19822 Beach Blvd. Cost: $2 adult / $1 child
Phone: 714-962-5777
Shipley Nature Center Tour
First Saturday of every month - 11:00 AM
Take a tour of the Shipley grounds and hear descriptions of the Center's planned restoration to its historical native plant habitat with the addition of water conservation gardens. Meet at the front gate to the Shipley Nature Center. For volunteer plant maintenance opportunities or for group tours, call or visit our website. Follow the painted line along the sidewalk to the Center.
Location: Huntington Beach Central Park - Edwards Street between Talbert and Slater
Cost: FREE Phone: 714-536-2514 ext.4025
www.fsnc.org
NSSA Junior Surfing Competition
April 3, 2004
Time and location: To be announced.
Cost: FREE to watch Phone: 714-536-0445
www.nssa.org
Bolsa Chica Foundation Wetlands Tour
First Saturday of every month - 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
A free guided, 90 minute tour is held the first Saturday of every month from 9 to 10:30 am. This docent-led tour makes five stops along the walkbridge and loop trails of the wetlands. Warm clothing, comfortable shoes and binoculars are recommended.
Location: Pacific Coast Highway Cost: Free
Phone: 714-840-1575
www.amigosdebolsachica.org
April 7, 2004
Disc Golf Wednesday League
Weekly: Wednesday - 6:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Huntington Beach Disc Golf Course Wednesday League - The 18-hole disc course in Central Park West offers league competition every Wednesday. All levels of players are invited and are assigned handicaps. Registration fees are awarded in cash prizes.
Location: Golden West Street between Talbert and Ellis Phone: 714-425-9931
April 9, 2004
Friday Night Blues Presents
April 9, 2004 - 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM
This concert features special musical performers to be announced.
Location: Huntington Beach Art Center
538 Main Street
Cost: $20 per person
Phone: 714-374-1650
April 10, 2004
Easter Hunt
April 10, 2004 - 10:00 AM
The 14th Annual Easter Hunt sponsored by the City of Huntington Beach features family fun with crafts, game booths and entertainment. The hunt will be for children up to 9 years of age.
Location: Huntington Beach Central Park
Edwards Street and Central Park Drive
Cost: FREE
Phone: 714-536-5486
April 14, 2004
Photography and Multimedia Exhibit
Weekly: Sunday - 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Wednesday - 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Thursday - 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Friday and Saturday - 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
In partnership with Imagination Celebration of Orange County, this exhibition of student work features stunning visual images in a variety of media, including photography, animation, digital art, film, and computer graphics by students of all ages from K – 12. Reception: Sunday, April 18, 2 to 4 p.m.
Location: Huntington Beach Art Center
538 Main Street
Cost: FREE
Phone: 714-374-1650
April 18, 2004
Bolsa Chica Wetlands Table & Mesa Tour
Third Sunday of every month - 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
A 2-hour walking tour of the Bolsa Chica Mesa and Wetlands is conducted by the Bolsa Chica Land Trust. Meet in the Ecological Reserve parking lot. Wear comfortable shoes; binoculars are suggested. Rain cancels.
Location: Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
Pacific Coast Highway and Warner Avenue Cost: FREE
Phone: 714-960-9939
www.bolsachicalandtrust.org
April 23, 2004
The Dining Room Presented by Huntington Beach Playhouse - Remind Me!
April 23 to May 9, 2004
A play written by A. R. Gurney and directed by Jack Messenger. This "dramedy" is performed by the Huntington Beach Playhouse.
Location: Huntington Beach Central Library and Cultural Center
7111 Talbert Avenue
Cost: $6-$20 per person
Phone: 714-375-0696
www.hbph.com
April 24, 2004
Earth Day Beach Clean-up - Remind Me!
April 24, 2004 - 9:00 PM to 12:00 PM
Join the City of Huntington Beach Maintenance Department and Simple Green in this annual event to clean Huntington City Beach. Gloves and plastic bags will be provided and parking is free for all volunteers.
Location: Huntington Beach North side of Pier
Pacific Coast Highway and Main Street
Cost: FREE Phone: 714-536-5614
16th Annual Huntington Beach Golf Tournament
April 24, 2004
Sponsored by the City of Huntington Beach Community Services Department, this fun and challenging day of play is limited to 100 people. The tournament will use a Peoria handicap system, with prizes awarded to top ten players with "low gross" and top ten with "low net", plus prizes for longest drive and closest to the pin.
Location: Meadowlark Golf Course 16782 Graham Street
Cost: $80 per person Phone: 714-536-5486
April 25, 2004
Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Juniors Fashion Show
April 25, 2004 - 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
The public is invited to enjoy a fashion show that includes original music and staging, plus a silent auction produced by the 14 to 18 year-old volunteer members of the Philharmonic Juniors program.
Location: Huntington Seacliff Country Club
6501 Palm Avenue
Phone: 714-840-7542
April 29, 2004
The Miracle Worker Presented by Academy for the Performing Arts - Remind Me!
April 29 to May 1, 2004 - 7:30 PM
May 2, 2004 - 2:00 PM
Deaf, blind and mute 12-year-old Helen Keller was like a wild animal, struggling against all who tried to help her. Blessed with fanatical determination, Annie Sullivan began working with the girl to release her from the terrifying prison of darkness and silence.
Location: Academy for the Performing Arts presents
Huntington Beach High School 1905 Main Street
Phone: 714-536-2514 ext.4025
April Television Schedule for Channel Three
| Community Bulletin Board | AllDay, Everyday |
| City Council Live Broadcasts | April 5th and 19th starting at 7 pm |
| City Council Re-Broadcasts | April 6th at 10 am & April 7th at 7 pm For the April 5th meeting April 20th at 10 am and April 21st at 7 pm For the April 19th meeting |
| Planning Commission Broadcasts | April 13th and 27th at 7 pm |
| Planning Commission Re-Broadcasts | Thursday following the meeting at 7 pm |