HUNTINGTON BEACH : 12 Honored for Their Good Deeds

Twelve “community heroes” who have contributed substantial service in the areas of valor, merit, heroism and humanitarianism will be honored today.

They will be recognized for outstanding acts of public service during the past year at the Public Safety Awards Luncheon at the Waterfront Hilton Beach Resort.

The list includes firefighters, police officers, public works employees and residents.

They are being honored for roles such as helping accident victims, preventing a suicide attempt and helping to stop the spread of graffiti.

Lawrence Manning, 82, will receive the Award for Heroism for preventing an 18-year-old man from committing suicide at a city park. Manning approached the man, who had slashed his wrist several times with a razor knife, and restrained him from doing more harm to himself while waiting for the police to arrive.

Awards for Merit will be given to city Fire Department Division Chief Tom Poe, public works maintenance division worker Peter Raia and Police Officer Dean Michael.

Four police officers who are part of the Critical Accident Suppression Enforcement Team, which developed ways to reach the public in a more positive manner on traffic safety issues, also will get merit awards. They are officers Larry Braz, Jerry TerKeurst, Norm Evenson and Bert Adkins.

Good Samaritan Awards will be given to residents Clay James, Monte Rodriguez, Dave Froehle and Reggie Ceehorne.

Chip Prather, an assistant chief with the Orange County Fire Department who was among leaders in fighting the Laguna Beach fire last October, will be the featured speaker.

The Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and city staff have recognized local people for their community service for the past 23 years.