AROUND TOWN - Jan. 16, 2009

Applicants sought for community funds

The city of Laguna Beach is now accepting applications for the Community Assistance Grant Program for fiscal year 2009-10. The program assists local nonprofit or public organizations in funding new projects and/or expanding services within the community. Grant recipients in the past have included social service, cultural, sports, senior and youth organizations.

Grant applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Community Services Department, 515 Forest Ave., next to City Hall. Applications are available at the Community Services Department between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Cultural arts grant applications open

The city of Laguna Beach is accepting applications for cultural arts grants. The grant funds must be used by nonprofit organizations for projects to promote tourism and encourage overnight hotel occupancy during the non-summer months.

Applications must be submitted at the counter in the Community Services Department by Feb. 6. For more information, visit www.lagunabeachcity.net

Great Decisions groups to resume for foreign policy

The League of Women Voters and the Unitarian Universalist Social Action Committee are again co-sponsoring discussions of foreign policy.

The format for these discussions comes from the Foreign Policy Assn., and is accompanied by briefing books and DVD support.

Two groups are formed, one meeting at 1:30 p.m. every Tuesday beginning Jan. 27, the other at 7 p.m. the first and third Tuesday beginning this Tuesday.

This year’s topics are:

1. The United States and Rising Powers;

2. Afghanistan and Pakistan;

3. Energy and the Global Economy;

4. The Arctic Age;

5. Egypt;

6. The Global Food Crisis;

7. Cuba on the Verge; and

8. Human Rights

Both groups meet at the UU Fellowship, 429 Cypress St., Laguna Beach. These discussions are open to all.

Interested persons may attend either of the first orientation meetings, or call (949) 494-2247 for further information.

Environmental group seeks nominees for recognition

The Laguna Beach Environmental Committee is accepting nominations for its Environmental Recognition Award Program.

The program recognizes local efforts to preserve, conserve, protect and enhance the environment in and around the city.

All residents, businesses, community organizations and schools are eligible to receive recognition for their good work. The activity must have been initiated within the last three years and successfully implemented as on of the date of the nomination form.

Any Laguna Beach resident, business or organization that is active in environmental preservation, conservation, restoration or educational activities may be nominated. Nominations may not be submitted by the nominee.

Nomination forms are available at Laguna Beach City Hall, 505 Forest Ave.

For more information, call (949) 497-0390. The nomination deadline is Jan. 30.