Briefly In The News

Soroptimists dinners honor murder victim

Soroptimist International of Laguna Beach is planning to cook and serve monthly dinners at the Friendship Shelter to honor Damon Nicholson, who was slain in his Laguna Beach home Oct. 23.

“Laguna Beach has suffered a tremendous loss through the violent, tragic murder of Mr. Nicholson,� said Soroptimist President Diane Hruby. “Damon was an ardent supporter of many local organizations and clubs. Soroptimist joins with our community in grieving for his untimely and unnecessary death.�

D’Anne Purcilly LeBon, the group’s service director, said that members are donating their time, food and culinary talents in memory of Nicholson’s generosity and assistance over the years. The first dinner was Monday with two more scheduled Dec. 14 and Jan. 11.

For more information, contact Mary Sausen at [email protected] or Linda Butterwick at [email protected].

Surfer Larson topic of historical meeting

Myths and urban legends surrounding Laguna surfer George “Peanuts� Larson will be explored by author and Laguna Beach local Craig Lockwood from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Monday at City Council Chambers, 505 Forest Ave. The event is sponsored by the Laguna Beach Historical Society.

Lockwood has written for many publications, including the Daily Pilot, and Surfing Magazine. In his book “Peanuts,� Lockwood explores Orange County’s surfing subculture and the life of Larson (1916-1986) an early lifeguard reputed to have ridden the largest wave ever surfed in California.

Community garden grand opening set

A grand opening ceremony and potluck for the South Laguna Community Garden will take place at 2 p.m. Dec. 6 at the garden, Eagle Rock and Virginia Ways.

Garden members, families, friends and community members are invited to enjoy children’s activities, music, and a grand opening ceremony, sponsored by the South Laguna Civic Assn.

Church reopens sanctuary Dec. 4

During Hospitality Night on Dec. 4, Laguna Presbyterian Church will reopen its 1928 Sanctuary after a two-year restoration.

Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. and all are welcome Proceeds will go to the Open Door Project and coffee sales will benefit the Women’s Retreat.

Charity grant applications due by Monday

The Laguna Board of Realtors and Affiliates Charitable Assistance Fund will review written applications in early December to determine which local community groups will receive donations from 2010 fundraising events. To apply, contact Stephanie Lennon at (949) 497-2474 or by e-mail at [email protected]. The deadline for written applications is Monday.