Sunday 24 April 2016

Kevin Calisher - Huntington Beach, California

Huntington Beach, California has received numerous accolades from many sources over the past several decades. Kevin Calisher grew up in Hunting Beach as a child and is one of its many current and former residents who has spent years enjoying all the city has to offer. As a city by the sea, the residents enjoy the beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere along with the hustle and bustle of the urban lifestyle.

Initially, Huntington saw growth after the oil boom of 1920. At one point, in the span of a month, the population of the tiny town grew over five times in the period of a month. Once again the city saw record-breaking growth in the 1950's when the city made an effort to clear out oil derricks within the city limits and make room for more residents to call Huntington home. The population soon after exploded, leading to thousands making Huntington the fastest growing city in the nation.

With the extreme growth the city experienced since the 1920's, new jobs and pastimes were brought to the residents' attention. In 1959, the first United States Surfing Championships were held in Huntington Beach and were televised the following year. This newfound fame once again brought Huntington to the limelight, showcasing the city's appeal to vacationers and surfers around the nation. Now a surfing hotspot, in 2005 the USA Surf Team made the decision to call Huntington Beach its home and the Association of Surfing Professionals-North America moved to the city as well.

Outdoor activities have always been popular in Huntington. In 2010, Huntington received National Recognition as being a Bicycle Friendly Community. This recognition is only awarded to cities with outstanding efforts in bicycle safety, encouragement in the use of bicycling for both transportation and recreational purposes, bicycling education, planning, and engineering development, amongst other criteria. The city has also earned recognition as the Best Family Beach in 2005, Number One Surf Beach in the United States in 2004, One of the Top Five Destinations for Teenagers and Their Parents in 2004, Number One Best City to Live in, in 2006, Number One Best Place to Walk/Jog/Bike in 2006, and many more.

As a hub for outdoor recreation, many who spent their childhood in Huntington grew up with a great appreciation for the outdoors. Kevin Calisher, now a successful businessman makes time to spend outdoors with his family. He still enjoys surfing and has also added snowboarding and traveling to his repertoire. Growing up active has helped those like Calisher maintain active and healthy lifestyles while participating in activities they love. For Calisher, starting outdoor activity at a young age is important and he has continued to share his love for the outdoors with his family and two small children.

Sources:http://www.huntingtonbeachca.gov/about/awards/