Dear Carolyn,
Thank you for your many years of organizing the Balboa Island Garage Sale.  It’s been an event that I look forward to year after year.  I am sorry to hear that this is your final year, however, I am very thankful for all that you have done.
I also wanted to share a little story about how, in a roundabout way, your garage sale may have saved my Irvine neighborhood. 
A couple of years ago I bought a small tree at one of the Balboa Island garage sales.  Later that evening, excited to add some new life to a neglected side of my house, I began to dig a hole to plant the tree.
While digging the hold I noticed a peculiar odor.  It smelled like natural gas.  I knew that I hadn’t hit any gas lines, as my hole was only several inches deep.  I stopped digging and contacted the gas company.  They immediately sent a technician to my home to check for a gas leak.
Before long, I had an entire Southern California Gas Company crew with an assortment of supervisors armed with a variety of leak detection devices, surrounding my home, poking and prodding my yard, my planters, the street and the sidewalk.
As it turns out, there was a leak in the main line which supplies gas to my entire block.  The leak was somewhere between the public sidewalk and the area where I was planting the little tree.
Thank you, little tree, for needing a new home and prompting me to spend some time on the infrequently visited side of the house.  And thank you, Carolyn, for providing the venue for the affordable purchase of the little tree.  Together, this string of events lead to the detection and repair of a gas leak, which if left undetected, could have met with disastrous consequence.

Thank you Kim—I feel like the Garage Sale was useful in a myriad ways when someone takes the time to send me a letter like this!
I also would like to thank Terry at 1002 N. Bayfront who also sent a very kind ‘thank you’ note as a first time participant in the Garage Sale Terry found it a great way to meet new neighbors, clean out her stuff and make a little money.  She was gracious enough to call me the ‘Heart of the Island’.  I will take the compliment, however
Balboa Island is my heart, not the other way around!


DEE’s TALK OF THE COAST . . . . Dee Dawson

For those with distant friends or family seeking a charming ‘Summer Rental’, tell them to call up Coldwell Banker  201 Marine Ave. and speak w/ helpful Agent “Kai”.  She will assist with all your Renting needs and offers Clients a nifty little Vacation Rental Sheet featuring numerous Bayfront properties - something listed, for everyone!  Call soon to schedule a showing:  949. 673.8700
In the mood for some good, local Italian food...?  Why not take the family down to Barolo by the Sea 305 Marine Ave?  Many locals are raving about their fantastic Pasta dishes and of course, always the signature garlic bread!  I recommend also, the wonderful Hot & Cold sandwiches featured on the Weekly Lunch Special - reasonably priced @ 10.95  I love the Grilled Chicken Breast - healthy!  Due to the cozy seating, Dinner hour can get a bit ‘tight’ - so please call ahead to reserve a table @ 949. 675.6193  
For many of us longtime Residents, recall fondly the former Golden Shell gift-shop where neat couple Ken & Margie Lindahl were owners. Many of you will ALSO remember Ken’s humorous performance as one of the ‘original’ Keystone Cops each year in the Balboa Island Parade!!  They sold their store many years ago to “Big John” (current Shell-Shop Owner) and Ken then retired to help take care of his dear ‘Marge’ who had succumbed to Alzheimer’s.  About 5 years ago Ken himself fell ill and was no longer able to care for his wife. Now they both reside @ a local ‘Memory-Care Residence’ adjacent to Hoag Hospital and I am informed, they are one of the most beloved couples on the property!!  We all miss you!  But lots of GOOD memories linger, from your former neighbors here on BI.  Be well!
Hey, Island Gals . . . the heat is ON!  That means it’s now beach time and we must have our feet groomed for all those cute, strappy sandals! Make an appt. soon & get over to Rosey Toes (224 1/2 Marine Ave. Upstairs).    I was quite favorably impressed, with their ‘Menu of Goodies’ - as its called. You’ve got Pink Grapefruit,  White Tea Rose, and  Lime & Coconut  treatments - just to name a few!!  ’Scent-sational’ Mani’s & Pedi’s.  The Owner wanted me to pass along, that Rosey Toes does only Natural Nails - NO Gels, NO Acrylics, and NO UV light!  For more Info. or to schedule your appt. call:  949.673.TOES (8637)
Garden-Stakes are all the rage this year!  Check out front window over at Art for the Soul.....SO unique are theirs, your neighbors will be envious!  Assorted whimsical styles to add to your front lawn or, flower-patch!  Reasonably-priced, between $24.00 - 84.00 


NEWPORT WHALE WATCHING. . . .

In the Fun Zone—next to the Balboa Island Ferry!
Great People—Fun and Educational for the whole Family!!  We went recently and had a blast!  Details of my voyage next issue—in the meantime take advantage of this special or sign Up at: to get up to the minute specials for Whale Watching and Fishing!


RENTAL WANTED
Doesn’t have to be on Balboa Island—but that would be very nice!  Here is our wish list—Minimum 2 br/2 bath, One story for us older folks, 2 Car Garage and we have our beautiful family member—Natti the Cat!  She was rescued in Palm Springs because of a landlord issue—and I am NOT sending her back to ‘the pound’ !! 
Yes it is a tall order—but nothing is impossible! 949.422.8570