AROUND TOWN - Sept. 26, 2008

Harry Lawrence Day celebrated Wednesday

The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce will honor Harry Lawrence on his 95th birthday Wednesday at Main Beach.

A birthday cake will be cut during the 1 p.m. celebration.

Lawrence has been a member of the chamber since he and his wife bought Warren Imports in 1947. The shop closed in 2007.

Among other accomplishments, Lawrence was instrumental in the redevelopment of Main Beach, opening it up to the public as a “Window To the Sea.”

Patriots Day theme is ‘From Many — One’

The Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade Committee has chosen officers for the 2009 year: President Charlie Quilter, Vice President Mike Lyons, Secretary Nina Rietsch and Treasurer Sandi Werthe.

The Theme for the March 7 parade is “From Many — One.” The theme has been adapted from the original Latin motto of the United States, E Pluribus Unum. Dating from 1782, the motto appears on our nation’s Great Seal as well as on our coins and currency.

Its original meaning reflected the union of the many colonies and states into one nation. The committee believes that today this theme also aptly expresses how many diverse peoples in our land have come together to form a single people and nation.

For information, call (949) 494-6016.

Assistance League hosts membership coffee

The Laguna Beach Assistance League invites the public to attend a coffee and a tour of its facilities from 10 a.m. to noon Oct. 7.

The group will share information on the organization and philanthropic programs. Prospective members are invited to learn about the group, what it does, and what various categories of membership are available. The coffee will be at the Chapter House, 547 Catalina St., parking available in the rear.

Seniors hold volunteer kickoff Oct. 8 at center

The Laguna Beach Seniors expect to be moving to their new building in January. This will allow for the much needed expansion of services and programs for the community of Laguna Beach. A volunteer meeting will take place from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at the current Senior Center-lower level, 384 Legion St., Laguna Beach to learn about volunteer opportunities.

For more information, call (949) 497-2441.

Wilderness lake fall turnover creates odors

Barbara’s Lake at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is currently experiencing what is called a “fall lake turnover,” causing a strong, unpleasant odor in the area, according to O.C. Parks officials.

The odor is caused by decomposing plants, algae and other matter coming to the surface. The low water level of the lake, due to the drought, may be contributing to the intensity of the event this year.

County staff has inspected the lake and is monitoring the situation.

The odor is expected to dissipate in a week or two and the water clarity will improve.

Free transportation service offered at hospital

South Coast Medical Center is offering free transportation service for non-emergency patients. The service is available Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Patients who need round-trip or one-way transportation to the medical center or the physician offices located on or near the hospital may use this service.

Rides are offered on a first-come, first-served basis to patients who live in Laguna Beach and in other cities served by the hospital.

To reserve transportation, call (949) 499-7182 or (949) 499-7202.