Re-Elect Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney

Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney

The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach holds candidate forums in election years as a service to the Huntington Beach community as they prepare to vote in the November 2, Huntington Beach election.  This year the Kiwanis Club held forums for Huntington Beach City Attorney candidates, Huntington Beach City Council candidates, and Orange County Water Board candidates.

The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Attorney Candidate Forum was held on September 28, 2010, at the Meadowlark Country Club in Huntington Beach, in conjunction with the Orange County Water District Candidate Forum.  The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Council Candidate Forum was held on September 21.

Jennifer McGrath incumbent Huntington Beach City Attorney was pleased to attend the Huntington Beach City Attorney Candidate Forum to discuss the office of City Attorney for Huntington Beach and her qualifications for the job.  The City Attorney represents and advises the City Council and all City officials in matters of law pertaining to the business of the City of Huntington Beach.  The City Attorney also represents the City of Huntington Beach in court.  The City Attorney position naturally requires an extensive background in municipal law.

Jennifer McGrath talked about the fact that she has served as the Huntington Beach City Attorney since her election in November 2002, after previously working as a Deputy City Attorney.  She not only has the experience, she is the only candidate with the necessary background in municipal law.  Her opponent has been an attorney for less than three years and has no experience in municipal law.

Jennifer McGrath discussed the fact that with the Huntington Beach City Attorney’s office shouldering its share of City budget cuts, it is more important than ever that Huntington Beach has a seasoned and experienced City Attorney.  Quite simply, the City Attorney’s office must do more with less.  Now, more than ever, Huntington Beach needs a City Attorney with experience, dedication, and a proven track record.  Jennifer McGrath is the right choice for Huntington Beach City Attorney.

Jennifer McGrath commented on her proven record of superior legal representation of the City with reduced reliance on outside counsel and substantial cost savings for Huntington Beach.  She protects taxpayer money, reducing the need for taxes and fees, by avoiding lawsuits whenever possible and aggressively defending lawsuits against the City.  Jennifer McGrath believes tax dollars should not be wasted on frivolous lawsuits, but dedicated to public safety, infrastructure, and community services.

Jennifer McGrath spoke about the fact that she has used her expertise to improve service levels to the Huntington Beach City Council, City staff, and the community.  She reorganized the City Attorney’s office and created an Advisory and Litigation division.  The Advisory Division advises City staff of all departments on a daily basis on how to accomplish their goal while avoiding litigation.  The Litigation Division handles 95% of the cases filed against the City at significantly less expense than outside attorneys.

During her tenure as Huntington Beach City Attorney, Jennifer McGrath has implemented new technology to increase transparency and permit the distribution of public reports about the activities of the City Attorney’s office.  She established City-wide training programs on a variety of topics including Ethics, the Brown Act, and the Public Records Act to remind Huntington Beach City staff that they work for the citizens.

Jennifer McGrath is widely endorsed as the right choice for Huntington Beach City Attorney by dignitaries from all parties based on her practice of providing legal advice without personal bias or partisanship.

Kiwanis Huntington Beach Candidate Forum

The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach is a service organization dedicated to serving the youth of Huntington Beach and assisting needy individuals in the Huntington Beach community includding Huntington Beach seniors.  Huntington Beach Kiwanis members volunteer their time and donate their money in support of this Kiwanis mission and the charitable events sponsored by the Huntington Beach Kiwanis Club.

Jennifer McGrath is a proud member of the Huntington Beach Kiwanis Club.  The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach is affiliated with Kiwanis International.  Kiwanis Clubs around the world stage about 150,000 service projects and raise nearly $107 million every year for communities and families.

To become a Kiwanis member or request more information, go to the Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach website.  The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach meets every Tuesday at 11:45 am at the Meadowlark Country Club upstairs dining room, 16782 Graham Street, Huntington Beach, California.

Kiwanis Huntington Beach Candidates

The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach held candidate forums in September for Huntington Beach candidates in the upcoming November 2, Huntington Beach election.  The Kiwanis Club holds candidate forums in election years as a service to the community.

The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Council Candidate Forum was held on September 21, 2010, at the Meadowlark Country Club in Huntington Beach.  The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Attorney Candidate Forum and the Orange County Water District Candidate Forum were held jointly on September 28, also at the Meadowlark Country Club.  The forums were well attended and provided a unique opportunity for Huntington Beach residents to hear from the candidates running for local office.

The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Council Candidate forum saw lively discussion and debate about the local issues facing Huntington Beach including fiscal responsibility, economic development, business and job growth, City infrastructure, budget priorities, the Poseidon desalination plant, Huntington Beach seniors, community services, and public safety.

Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend the Huntington Beach City Council Candidate Forum in support of the Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach, of which she is a member.  Photographs of the Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Council Candidate Forum can be viewed at Kiwanis Huntington Beach Candidates.

Huntington Beach City Council Candidates include: Connie Boardman, a college biology professor; Bruce Brandt, a licensed professional engineer; Joe Carchio, incumbent City Council member and retired business owner; Andrissa Dominguez, a mom and playground supervisor; Barbara Delgleize, a business owner and Planning Commission member; Blair Farley, a pastor and Planning Commission member; Landon Fichtner, a meteorologist and science teacher; Heather Grow, an educator; William Grunwald, a business manager and attorney; Matthew Harper, a Huntington Beach High School District trustee; Dan Kalmick, a small business owner; Jim Katapodis, a police supervisor for LAPD; Billy O’Connell, a business owner and non-profit director; Erik Peterson, a businessman; Bill Rorick, a business executive and engineer; Shawn Roselius, a student; Joe Shaw, a small business owner; Fred Speaker, a business owner and Planning Commission member; John Von Holle, a retired municipal employee; Norm Westwell, a School Board member and business owner; and late comer Blake Rose, a write-in candidate.

Kiwanis Huntington Beach Candidate Forum

The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach is a service organization dedicated to serving the youth of Huntington Beach and assisting needy individuals in the Huntington Beach community.

Huntington Beach Kiwanis members volunteer their time and donate their money in support of this Kiwanis mission and the various Kiwanis Huntington Beach community activities such as Clothe the Children (providing clothing for under privileged children), Wheels for the World (assisting people with physical disabilities), Oak View Holiday Party (a festive treat of entertainment, gift bags, candy and fun for over 800 children of the community’s neediest families), Project Cherish (helping to preserve the dignity of the elderly by cleaning homes and doing yard work for Huntington Beach seniors needing assistance), plus many other community activities.

Jennifer McGrath is a proud member of the Huntington Beach Kiwanis Club.  The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach is affiliated with Kiwanis International.  Kiwanis Clubs around the world stage about 150,000 service projects and raise nearly $107 million every year for communities and families.

To become a Kiwanis member or request more information, go to the Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach website.  The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach meets every Tuesday at 11:45 am at the Meadowlark Country Club upstairs dining room, 16782 Graham Street, Huntington Beach, California.

Huntington Beach Green Expo

The 2010 Huntington Beach Green Expo took place on September 18, at the Huntington Beach Pier Plaza in Huntington Beach, California.  The annual Huntington Beach Green Expo provides an opportunity for the public to become more aware of the green choices available for the home, work, and at play.

Huntington Beach City Attorney Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend this event in support of the Green Expo and its sponsors the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and the City of Huntington Beach.  Attendees were able to learn more about the benefits of going green using the latest technology and ideas in the areas of energy efficiency, recycling, waste reduction, water conversation, greenhouse gas reduction, and organic products.

Huntington Beach Green Expo - Jennifer McGrath Tests a Segway

The City of Huntington Beach has taken a lead in conservation and green solutions.  The City has initiated a number of green programs encompassing a broad range of components including facilities-energy conservation, waste management & recycling, as well as water quality & conservation.  One example is the installation of more energy efficient equipment and upgrades throughout the City’s facilities that will not only protect the environment but result in estimated annual cost savings of over $170,000.

Vendors at the Huntington Beach Green Expo were on hand with exhibits, information booths, product samples and demonstrations.  Over 60 vendors were present ranging from the Bolsa Chica Conservancy to the Boeing Company.  The Huntington Beach Green Expo also included musical entertainment provided by the Back Home Band, Nick Corsetti, Little Albert & The Bluestars, and the Mai Tais.

More information about green activities and conservation efforts by the City of Huntington Beach can be found at Huntington Beach goes Green.

Huntington Beach Interfaith Council

The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council hosted the 11th annual Procession of Light on September 12, 2010, at Pier Plaza in Huntington Beach, California.

Over 35 different faith-based organizations participated in the Interfaith Council Procession of Light which included a variety of music and words of inspiration from local religious and political leaders.  The program also included the presentation of lifetime achievement awards to former Huntington Beach Mayors Shirley Dettloff and Ralph Bauer.

Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend the Procession of Light in support of the Huntington Beach Interfaith Council.  Present throughout the day’s activities was the World Peace Flame which was brought directly from the eternal World Peace Flame at the Hague in the Netherlands.  The day began with the “Blessing of the Streets” at 2:30 p.m.  Participants gathered at the downtown Huntington Beach Library for a walk down Main Street to Pier Plaza adjacent to the Huntington Beach Pier.  The Blessing of the Streets procession was meant to acknowledge all that is good in the Huntington Beach community.

People then gathered at Pier Plaza for the Interfaith Council Procession Program activities which began with a lively musical performance by the Kyodo Taiko Drummers from the UCLA Collegiate Taiko Group.  The drummers were followed by a rousing Sister Act performance which included the songs “O Happy Day” and “Joyful, Joyful.”  Later in the activities, the crowd was entertained with moving spiritual performances by soloist Michael Paul Smith, the South Coast Simcha Band, and Noor.

Uplifting commentary was provided by leaders from various faiths including: Rabbi Stephen Einstein of the Congregation B’nai Tzedek; Father Joseph Knerr, pastor of St. Bonaventure Roman Catholic Church; Reverend Dr. Peggy Price of the Seal Beach Center for Spiritual Living; Father Christian Mondor of Sts. Simon & Jude Roman Catholic Church; Dr. Dale Braithwaite of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; and representatives of the Baha’i Faith, the Islamic Society, and the Zoroastrian Faith.

Huntington Beach Interfaith Council honors Shirley Dettloff and Ralph Bauer

The master of ceremonies for the Huntington Beach Interfaith Council Procession of Light was Dave Garofalo, Chairman of the 2010 Procession of Light Committee.  Procession of Light Committee members also included Rabbi Stephen Einstein, Tom Hohman, Father Christian Mondor, Debi Wheeler-Ure, Renate Groutier, and Dr. Dale Braithwaite.

Dignitaries in attendance to show their support for the Interfaith Council Procession of Light included U.S. Congressman (46th District) Dana Rohrabacher, Huntington Beach Mayor Cathy Green, Fountain Valley Mayor Larry Crandall, Huntington Beach City Attorney Jennifer McGrath, Huntington Beach City Councilmember Joe Carchio, Huntington Beach Treasurer Shari Freidenrich, and candidate for Huntington Beach City Council Fred Speaker.

The Huntington Beach Interfaith Council Procession of Light activities concluded with a walk to the end of the Huntington Beach pier and back led by bagpiper Dave Champagne.

The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council is a non-profit organization that seeks to promote interfaith understanding and harmony through dialogue, education, programs and community activities.  The Huntington Beach Interfaith Council is based on the core American values of social justice and religious freedom for all.  To that end, the Huntington Beach Interfaith Council is involved in a number of events throughout the year including the Procession of Light in September, an Interfaith Thanksgiving Service in November, an Interfaith Prayer Breakfast in May, and the Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade.

The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council meets monthly and welcomes all who want to become involved.  For more information see the Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council website or contact the Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council by email info@ghbic.org, or mail at 18685-A Main St., #194, Huntington Beach, CA 92648.

BB Jazz Huntington Beach

BB Jazz is a charitable organization whose purpose is to raise funds and awareness for children with autism and other charities for children.  BB Jazz raises funds by bringing always excellent Smooth Jazz, R&B and Contemporary Music to Huntington Beach, California.  BB Jazz is a wonderful charity and the project of Huntington Beach residents Betty and Corky Bennish.

BB Jazz organizes three annual events in Huntington Beach – the BB Jazz Festival in Central Park, the annual Library Theatre Series, and a New Years Eve Gala at the Huntington Beach Hyatt.  Each of these events is well worth your time and benefits a worthy cause.

In support of BB Jazz and children with autism, Huntington Beach City Attorney Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend the 8th annual BB Jazz Festival which took place on September 11, 2010, in Huntington Beach Central Park.  Festival goers were treated to a stellar lineup of jazz musicians as well as the sounds of DJ Jonathan between performances.  There were two concert stages, the Village Stage and the VIP Stage, as well as sponsor exhibits, artisan booths, and delicious food.  See the BB Jazz Huntington Beach photos.

Corky Bennish and Betty Bennish founders of BB Jazz Huntington Beach

Also in attendance to support BB Jazz and children with autism were Joe Carchio, incumbent candidate for Huntington Beach City Council, Fred Speaker candidate for Huntington Beach City Council, and Shari Freidenrich, Huntington Beach Treasurer and candidate for Orange County Treasurer.

The music started at 10:30 a.m. and lasted until 9:00 p.m.  The jazz performance lineup included Maysa, The Tony Rich Project, Walter Beasley, Raul Midon, Andre Delano, Bob Baldwin with Art Sherrod Jr, Joey Sommerville with Eric Essix, Mahndo, and BK Jackson.

Upcoming BB Jazz events include the annual Library Theatre Series, and a New Years Eve Gala at the Huntington Beach Hyatt.  The Huntington Beach Library Theater Concert Series takes place in the intimate 319 seat theater of the Huntington Beach Library and Cultural Center located at 7111 Talbert Avenue, Huntington Beach, California.  Saxophonist Kim Waters is currently scheduled to perform in November.

The New Years Eve Gala takes place in an oceanfront setting at the Huntington Beach Hyatt located at 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, California.  Marion Meadows and Christine Day will be performing as well as Rahsaan Patterson and DJ Jonathan.

For more information see the BB Jazz website.

Huntington Beach Police Officers Association

The Huntington Beach Police Officers Association has announced that they will be holding a public event on Sunday, September 19, 2010, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Buon Gusto Restaurant in Huntington Beach. 

The public is invited to join the Huntington Beach POA for free food and non-alcoholic beverages (a no host bar will be available).  It is an open house style event so feel free to come by whenever you like.

Candidates endorsed by the Huntington Beach Police Officers Association will be dropping in to chat with guests.  Election candidates endorsed by the Huntington Beach POA include: Cathy Green, the Huntington Beach Mayor and candidate for Orange County Water District #6; Jennifer McGrath, incumbent candidate for Huntington Beach City Attorney; Shari Freidenrich, Huntington Beach Treasurer and candidate for Orange County Treasurer; Joe Carchio, incumbent candidate for Huntington Beach City Council; Connie Boardman, candidate for Huntington Beach City Council; Jim Katapodis, candidate for Huntington Beach City Council; and Fred Speaker, candidate for Huntington Beach City Council. 

This is a unique opportunity to mingle with the candidates and HBPOA members in an informal setting over some delicious Italian food.  Come by and show your support.

Buon Gusto Restaurant Huntington Beach Police Officers Association Event

Location:

Buon Gusto Restaurant
(corner of Bolsa Chica & Warner)
4911 Warner Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
(714) 846-2600

When:  Sunday, September 19, 2010, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (open house style)

For more information contact Kreg Muller, President, Huntington Beach Police Officers Association, by email president@hbpoa.org, or mail at Huntington Beach Police Officers Association, P.O. Box 896, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, Telephone (714) 842-8851, website Huntington Beach Police Officers Association.

Huntington Beach Senior Saturday

The Huntington Beach Council on Aging held its annual Senior Saturday at Huntington Beach Pier Plaza on September 11.  Senior Saturday is the largest non-profit Senior Expo in Orange County.  Seniors from Huntington Beach and surrounding communities were provided an opportunity to learn more about organizations and businesses in Orange County that provide services to seniors.

City Attorney Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend Senior Saturday in support of the Huntington Beach Council on Aging and the Huntington Beach senior community.  Jennifer McGrath talked with seniors about their issues and concerns as well as services that are available to them through the City of Huntington Beach.  Huntington Beach offers a variety of senior services through the Rodgers Seniors Center and the Seniors Outreach Center.  Contact the Rodgers Seniors Center (1706 Orange Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA, 92648, 714-536-9387) for services related to recreation, education, nutrition, socialization, and physical fitness.  Contact the Seniors Outreach Center (1718 Orange Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA, 92648, 714-960-2478) for services related to transportation, care-management, meals to the home, information and referrals.

Huntington Beach Senior Saturday is a free event and seniors were treated to free entertainment, prize drawings, a $2 breakfast and a $2 lunch.  Entertainment was provided by the Singing Goodtimers, the Jim Camarena & Western Line Dancers, and the Jamie Wood Band.  Over 70 sponsors were present including senior living communities, health professionals, physical therapists, home health care specialists, elder law attorneys, and many more.  This year’s Senior Saturday also provided an opportunity for seniors to meet many of the candidates running for local office in the election this November.

Jennifer McGrath at Huntington Beach Senior Saturday

In addition to talking with Jennifer McGrath, the current Huntington Beach City Attorney up for re-election, seniors had the opportunity to meet candidates for Huntington Beach City Council including Connie Boardman, Joe Carchio (incumbent City Councilmember), Barbara Delgleize, Blair Farley, Jim Katapodis,  Billy O’ Connell, Erik Peterson, Joe Shaw, Fred Speaker, and John Von Holle.  Seniors also met candidates for Orange County Water Board Cathy Green and Don MacAllister, as well as candidate for Orange County Treasurer Shari Freidenrich.

The Huntington Beach Council on Aging is a non-profit organization that seeks to enhace the dignity and quality of life of Huntington Beach senior citizens.  The Huntington Beach Council on Aging seeks to accomplish this goal through advocacy and direct action on behalf of Huntington Beach seniors.

Senior Saturday is an annual event held at Pier Plaza next to the Huntington Beach Pier at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Main Street in Huntington Beach, California.  The City of Huntington Beach provides a free shuttle service for the event leaving every 15 minutes from the Rodgers Senior Center and Huntington Beach City Hall.

Read more about Jennifer McGrath talking to Huntington Beach Seniors.

You are invited!  The Committee to Re-Elect Jennifer McGrath is hosting a campaign fundraiser in Huntington Harbour on Wednesday, September 15, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  Thank you to Eddie Clark for graciously offering his stunning home in Huntington Harbour for this fundraiser.  It is sure to be a beautiful day with a spectacular view.

Huntington Harbour in Huntington Beach

Location:  

Home of Edward Clark
17061 Bolero Lane
Huntington Beach, CA 92649

When:

Wednesday, September 15, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

A Sampling of Delicious Appetizers Will Be Served

Donation: $30/person or $50/couple – donate online now (or you may make a donation at the door)

RSVP: Please RSVP by email - ElectJenniferMcGrath@gmail.com

Please join us for this event.  It will be a wonderful opportunity to mingle with fellow supporters and chat with Jennifer McGrath in a relaxed setting with delicious appetizers and a spectacular harbour view. 

Donations

If you cannot join us that evening, please consider taking a few minutes to make a donation to the campaign.  An election campaign in today’s world is a very expensive undertaking.  And, as many of you know, our campaign was hurt when many of our most expensive signs were vandalized or stolen.  Your financial support is critical and we thank you for your donation in whatever amount you are able to contribute.

You can also help the campaign by telling your friends, family, or neighbors about this fundraiser.  Share this website page with them in an email.  You can even use the handy ”share/save” buttons at the bottom of this article to quickly and easily share this fundraiser information using email or any of the popular social websites.

Jennifer McGrath with President Lincoln at Huntington Beach Civil War Days

In support of Huntington Beach Civil War Days and the Huntington Beach Historical Society, Jennifer McGrath attended the 17th annual Civil War Days Living History and Reenactment in Huntington Beach Central Park.

Huntington Beach Civil War Days is a family event that takes visitors back to 1863 with a historic town (“Reedsburg”), men and women dressed in civil war era clothing, Civil War Union soldiers and Confederate soldiers, and daily battles complete with civil war cannon, infantry charges, civil war drums, and more.  Nearly one thousand civil war reenactors particpate in this event.   This is the largest American Civil War reenactment in Southern California.

Huntington Beach Civil War Days

See the Huntington Beach Civil War Days photographs.

The Huntington Beach Historical Society sponsors Civil War Days to educate the public, particularly our youth, about United States history.  Visitors can stroll the civil war army encampments, watch civil war soldiers gathering in formation, and talk with civil war reenactment participants.

There are plenty of civil war exhibit booths providing an opportunity to learn more about the civil war era.  Shops in the historic civil war town offer an opportunity to purchase civil war vintage costumes, food, and other items.

Admission to Huntington Beach Civil War Days is free.  The event continues through Sunday, September 5.  The Huntington Beach Civil War schedule includes battle reenactments at 11:00 am and at 2:00 p.m.  President Lincoln presents his Gettysburg Address after the first battle.  Parking is available at the Huntington Beach Public Library (7111 Talbert Ave, Huntington Beach).

The Huntington Beach Historical Society promotes historic preservation and education within and around Huntington Beach and serves as a resource for local history.  The Historical Society cares for the Newland House, built by early Orange County pioneers William and Mary Newland in 1898 and offers public tours on the weekends as well as private tours for groups and schoolchildren.

As a service to the community and an organizational fundraiser, the Historical Society hosts the annual Civil War Days living history reenactment of the American Civil War.  For more information, or to make a donation, contact the Huntington Beach Historical Society, 19820 Beach Boulevard, Huntington Beach, California 92648, (714) 962-5777.

Huntington Harbour Republican Women Federated

Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend the Huntington Harbour Republican Women Federated Candidate Forum on Friday, August 27, at the Meadowlark Country Club in Huntington Beach, California.  The Candidate Forum event was a tremendous success.  Members and guests of the Huntington Harbour Republican Women Federated had the opportunity to talk with Huntington Beach Republican Party candidates and learn more about them.

Huntington Harbour RWF President Dianna Gadberry did a wonderful job coordinating the evening’s activities.  Huntington Harbour RWF  Vice President of Membership Charlotte Christiana introduced the newest members of the organization.  HHRWF member Debbie Cotton was the moderator for the Candidate Forum.

Huntington Harbour Republican Women Federated Candidate Forum

You can view the entire Republican Candidate Forum event, including individual candidates, in this photo slideshow of the Huntington Harbour Republican Women Federated Candidate Forum, or view the photographs individually in this set of Huntington Harbour Republican Women Federated Candidate Forum Photographs.

The Huntington Harbour RWF event was honored by the presence of Republican U.S. Congressman (46th District) Dana Rohrabacher and Republican California State Assemblyman (67th District) Jim Silva.  Congressman Rohrabacher and Assemblyman Silva talked about the issues and challenges facing the Republican Party at the federal and state levels.  Assemblyman Jim Silva also spoke on behalf of Meg Whitman, Republican candidate for governor of the State of California.  Dave Everett was present to speak on behalf of Van Tran, Republican California State Assemblyman (68th District) and candidate for U.S. Congress.

Huntington Harbour RWF members and guests then had the opportunity to listen to Republican candidates in the local Huntington Beach election, Fountain Valley election, and Orange County election including candidates for:

• Orange County Treasurer – Shari Freidenrich
• Midway City Sanitary District – Tony Lam
• Orange County Water District – Cathy Green, Don MacAllister
• Fountain Valley School District – Sandra Crandall, Nicola Weiss, Rochelle Giuseffi
• Ocean View School District – Tracy Pellman, George Clemens, John Briscoe
• Fountain Valley City Council – Patrick Tucker, Mark McCurdy, Michael Vo
• Huntington Beach City Council – Bruce Brandt, Joe Carchio, Barbara Delgleize, Andrissa Dominguez, Landon Fichtner, Matthew Harper, Billy O’Connell, Erik Peterson, Bill Rorick, Fred Speaker, John Von Holle
• Huntington Beach City Attorney – Jennifer McGrath

The Huntington Harbour Republican Women Federated is affiliated with the State and National Federation of Republican Women whose goals include, among others, promotion of an informed public through political education and activity as well as increasing the effectiveness of women in the cause of good government.  The Huntington Harbour RWF uses grassroots activism to support the mission of the State and Federal Federations which is to see women from all age groups and walks of life as key players at the political table on national, state and local issues.

The Huntington Harbour Republican Women Federated meets the 4th Wednesday of the month at Meadowlark Country Club in Huntington Beach.  HH Republican Women Federated annual events include an entry in the Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade, a Huntington Harbour waterfront home tour fundraiser, and a day at the races.  Candidate forums are held in election years.  To become a member or request more information, contact the Huntington Harbour RWF at HuntingtonHarbourRWF@cfrw.org.

Huntington Beach Senior Dorothy Silverman talks to Jennifer McGrath. Mrs. Silverman is a realtor at Berg Realty and a longtime volunteer in the Huntington Beach community.

The Campaign to Re-Elect Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney was out in force today walking the neighborhoods and talking to the Huntington Beach community.  Jennifer McGrath took the time to personally talk with concerned citizens, particularly Huntington Beach seniors. 

Huntington Beach is a city of over 200,000 of which over 10% are senior citizens living on a fixed income.  Ms. McGrath has always been empathetic to the senior community in Huntington Beach.  Senior citizens told Ms. McGrath about their sense of uncertainty and vulnerability.  They expressed a number of concerns including, among others, the economy, healthcare, taxes, and community services.  Seniors are also feeling frustrated with what they see as an increasing lack of ethics in government.

During her tenure as Huntington Beach City Attorney, Jennifer McGrath has attacked the ethical issue directly.  An authority on government ethics, Ms. McGrath provides state-mandated ethics training three times a year to all elected and appointed Huntington Beach City officials, as well as City employees involved in fiscal management of the City’s affairs. 

Even before the current economic times, Jennifer McGrath was also spearheading the effort to protect taxpayer money and preserve Huntington Beach City services. 

I have been blessed to serve this community since 2002.  As your City Attorney, my role is to advise the City Council and staff on all legal matters regardless of personal opinion or partisanship.  I protect taxpayer money, reducing the need for taxes and fees, by avoiding lawsuits whenever possible and aggressively defending all lawsuits against the City.  Your tax dollars should not be wasted on frivolous lawsuits, but dedicated to public safety, infrastructure, and community services.

In pursuit of protecting taxpayer money and preserving Huntington Beach City services, Ms. McGrath has:

• Established and maintained a form of aggressive, yet cost-effective, litigation;
• Reorganized the office to create a pro-active Advisory Division to reduce the filing of frivolous litigation against the City;
• Implemented the technological tools, including law office management software and use of the Internet, to improve communication with the staff, City Council, and the public;
• Continued to provide pro-active legal advice on a daily basis to City staff and City Council to minimize the likelihood of litigation and reduce the use of outside counsel;
• Maintained a City-wide training program to improve compliance with state and local law at all levels of the organization, including Ethics, the Brown Act, Public Records Act, and Contract Preparation;
• Provided immediate advice to all City Departments including Public Works, Police, and Fire; and trained City staff on a wide variety of topics on an annual basis to help them do things the right way the first time.

Jennifer McGrath is very involved in the Huntington Beach community and welcomes the opportunity to talk with residents.  Ms. McGrath regularly appears at local events, social club meetings, and other gatherings to talk about the issues and listen to citizen concerns.  Feel free to email her if you would like her to appear at your event or community gathering.

The City of Huntington Beach provides a wide array of services to Huntington Beach seniors many of which are highlighted at the annual Huntington Beach Senior Saturday.  Jennifer McGrath is always happy to talk to seniors personally about their needs and concerns.

Brett Simpson Wins US Open of Surfing Huntington Beach

It was a great week for Huntington Beach.  The US Open of Surfing and local hero Brett Simpson reminded the world that Huntington Beach, California, is Surf City USA.  Congratulations to Brett Simpson, 25, on winning back-to-back US Open of Surfing Championships.  Brett Simpson defeated top ranked surfer Michael “Jordy” Smith, 22, of South Africa (13.97 to 8.33) to win the 2010 US Open of Surfing Championship.  Last year, Simpson defeated two-time world champion Mick Fanning to win the 2009 US Open of Surfing.  See photos of the US Open of Surfing final heat.

The entire City of Huntington Beach is proud of this young man and his accomplishments.  Brett Simpson, a graduate of Huntington Beach High School and son of American football player Bill Simpson, was the Orange County Surfer of the Year in 2008 and 2009.  Brett continues to develop as one of the finest surfers in the world.  His place in the history of surfing is assured with these consecutive wins at the US Open of Surfing.  In the years to come, one can see him taking his place in the Surfing Walk of Fame and the Surfers’ Hall of Fame.

The field of contenders at the 2010 US Open of Surfing included many of the top surfers in the world.  Brett Simpson battled past Nathaniel Curran, 26, (2008 US Open Surfing Champion) in the quarterfinals (10.14 to 9.74), and nine time ASP World Champion Kelly Slater, 38, in the semifinals (13.37 to 13.33).  Jordy Smith defeated Miguel Pupo, 18, of Brazil in the quarterfinals (17.66 to 16.10), and Australian Mick Fanning, 29, (2007 and 2009 ASP World Tour Surfing Champion) in the semifinals (13.00 to 12.80).

US Open of Surfing

It was exciting to watch the final heat of the US Open of Surfing, as Brett Simpson and Jordy Smith squared off battling to make the most of each wave.  “Jordy has been getting quick starts, so I tried to go out there and get a decent start,” said Simpson.  “I got a five, and it was a low scoring heat, but all the waves I caught I maximized.  Jordy had that one wave, where if he pulled that air it could have been a different ballgame.  That’s the risk you take to be rewarded and with the level these days, that’s where it’s at.  I kind of stayed conservative and built my scores, but either way, a win is a win.”

A tip of the hat to Carissa Moore the Womens US Open of Surfing Champion, Evan Geiselman the Mens Pro Jr. US Open of Surfing Champion, and Sage Erickson the Womens Pro Jr. US Open of Surfing Champion.  The organizers of the US Open of Surfing put on another fine event and we look forward to their return next year.  Huntington Beach is Surf City USA!