Vietnam veteran known as “The Hot Dog Man” remembered during plaque dedication

A memorial plaque now marks the spot where the late Bill “The Hotdog Man” Connell used to sell his “Surf Dogs” overlooking an ocean bluff in Carpintera.

Connell died last year after years of serving his community and fellow veterans.

Santa Barbara County Supervisor and former assemblyman Das Williams remembers how he visited Sacramento on his own dime to work for Veterans rights.

He fought to get tax breaks for veterans with similar businesses.

To many people driving the 101 he was an institution.

People would stop on Bailard Avenue to buy hot dogs or to just say hello.

The Hot Dog Man would give away red licorice and let kids drop the money in his jar and make their own change.

Rep. Salud Carbajal said he was a great guy with a big heart who is greatly missed.