BRIEFLY IN BUSINESS

McKenney discusses care for Aliso Creek

The Laguna Beach Business Club will host Larry McKenney discussing “Protecting the Environment In and Around Aliso Creek” at its monthly meeting, planned at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, April 19 at the Hotel Laguna.

McKenney is the Director of the Watershed and Coastal Resources Division of the County of Orange. He is responsible for the county’s implementation of water quality programs, including compliance with the Clean Water Act and the management and protection of Orange County’s beaches and streams.

McKenney graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with a degree in history and accepted a commission in the U.S. Marine Corps. He later earned a law degree from the University of Texas School of Law. He served on active duty first in the artillery and later as a lawyer, including working as the water lawyer for the Marine Corps’ Western Area Counsel Office.

Leaving active military service, he worked in the Law Offices of Susan M. Trager in Irvine before returning to Camp Pendleton as a civilian to head its Office of Water Resources. He joined the County of Orange in February 2002. He retired from the Marine Corps Reserve as a Lt. Colonel. He lives in Aliso Viejo.

Visitors are welcome and reservations are required. A full buffet breakfast is served and the cost is $20. For reservations, call Steve Ewing at (949) 497-4275 or e-mail him at steve@ewingdesigngroup.com.

Chamber enjoys 1940s lunch price

About 35 people crowded into The White House Restaurant on Tuesday for a 75-cent lunch, sponsored by the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber is marking its 90th year and holding a number of history-themed events.

During the networking luncheon, local history buff James Perry, who will turn 92 this year, talked about the city’s early years and the importance of the Laguna Beach Historical Society.

The White House, 340 So. Coast Highway, is the city’s oldest restaurant, built in 1918, and is also believed to be one of Orange County’s oldest dining establishments.

The lunch, priced at 1942 rates, consisted of Caesar salad and pasta.

The Chamber is planning its next mixer at the Laguna Beach Historical Society, 278 Ocean Ave., from 5 to 7 p.m. May 16. For more information, visit the Chamber website at www.lagunabeachchamber.org.