‘Freedom Writers’ teacher to speak in Costa Mesa

Former Long Beach teacher Erin Gruwell, who inspired the movie “Freedom Writers,” will be the featured speaker at a Thursday luncheon in Costa Mesa sponsored by Women In Leadership, a bi-partisan political action group that supports women candidates. Gruwell now runs the nonprofit Freedom Writers Foundation, training other teachers to encourage tolerance and achievement in the education system.

A reception is set for 11:30 a.m. Wednesday with the luncheon at noon at the Center Club, 650 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Tickets are $40 for Women In Leadership members and $50 for nonmembers. For more information or to reserve a seat call Liz McNab at (714) 435-9465 or e-mail lizm@voipeng.com. Free valet parking and vegetarian plates are available.

— Alicia Robinson