Briefly In the News: Boutique Benefit fundraiser is Saturday

The fourth annual Boutique Benefit will help provide options to women in war-torn Congo and local low-income families, according to organizer Evonne Kane. The event is from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday at the Laguna Presbyterian Church, 415 Forest Ave. Admission is $1 per person. Most items will be priced between $4 and $16. For more information, visit www.boutiquebenefit.com.

Proceeds will benefit the Laguna Relief and Resource Coalition, and, for the first time, Women for Women International, an organization that helps female survivors of war rebuild their lives. To arrange a last-minute drop off of donated items, call (949) 497-2767 or e-mail info@boutiquebenefit.com. All donations are tax-deductible.

Memorial Day ceremony planned

The Laguna Beach American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars will conduct their 83rd Memorial Day ceremony in remembrance of all their comrades who died in wars and conflicts at 11 a.m. May 31 at Monument Point in Heisler Park.

The keynote speaker will be Assemblywoman Diane Harkey, 73rd District. Music by Larry Wohrman of Diamond DJ’s Entertainment Co. will begin at 10:30 a.m.

The public is invited to come early to get seats. For more information, call Richard Moore at (949) 376-6340 or Dave Connell at (949) 494-2065.

It is suggested that those having flowers delivered try to get them in place by 10:30 a.m. For more information, call Diane Connell at (949) 494-2065.

Garbage service delayed for holiday

Waste Management of Orange County’s trash and recycling pick-up schedule will be delayed by one day throughout the week of May 31, in observance of Memorial Day. Customers should place their bins out for pick-up one day later than usual, June 1 through 5.

Visit www.wmorangecounty.com.

Belly dance party is Sunday

A belly dance party with costume swap meet, vendors, potluck, raffles and performances will be from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday at 21540 Wesley Drive. A free belly dance class will be from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m.

The event will also collect good used clothing for battered women. For more information, call (949) 494-5031 or e-mail jheristjames@yahoo.com.

Recruiter named for city manager search

The Laguna Beach City Council has selected Bob Murray and Associates to conduct the recruitment for the next city manager. Murray will prepare the job announcement, seek out qualified candidates, and present the most qualified applicants to the council.

Prior to accepting resumes, the search firm will solicit ideas from the community as to the qualities which are essential to be a successful city manager.

Bob Murray and Associates will be paid $17,500 plus expenses of about $5,000, according to Mayor Elizabeth Pearson.