OC Blog

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- December 5, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Credit Crunch Hits County Investment Pool -- OCR
Treasurer-Tax Collector Chriss Street discounts securities on small portion of county's portfolio.

Nielsen's Plea Deal -- OC Weekly
OC political activist to admit to lewd acts with boys

Santa Ana Removes Anti-Gang Commissioner -- OCR and LAT
Commissioner Thomas Gordon disputes a councilman's claim that he shouted at him during a recent meeting.

DeVore Keeping Pay Boost -- DP
Assemblyman Chuck DeVore said he won’t turn down a pay hike despite state budget problems some say could lead to service cuts.

Costa Mesa Mayor Says He'll Endorse Ron Paul -- DP
Costa Mesa Mayor Allan Mansoor announced he would officially endorse the candidacy of Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul, a congressman from Texas.

Frank Mickadeit: Acting Sheriff Too Loyal For Her Own Good -- OCR
Galisky's school of hard knocks

Faculty Accepts Drake's Answers -- DP
UCI’s faculty is satisfied with Chancellor Michael Drake’s explanation for why he fired, hired and rehired the law school’s founding dean.

OC Lags In Job Growth -- DP
Orange County had the lowest job growth this year of any major urban area in California and may soon be mired in a nationwide recession, a group of business leaders said Tuesday at a forum at the Island Hotel.

Canyon Residents Report More Deer In Canyons -- OCR
Residents report an abundance of deer in the canyons, causing car versus deer problems

Immigrants Sue Over Citizenship Delays -- OCR
The lawsuit, which includes plaintiffs from Orange County, was filed after citizenship applications were delayed over FBI name checks.

St. Jude Medical Center Will Expand -- OCR
The Fullerton City Council tonight approves $125 million proposal to add office building, parking structure.

Gordon Dillow: A Toast To Recycled Sewage -- OCR
Water that once had been sewage tastes great, actually.

Lake Forest Elects Mark Tettemer As Mayor -- OCR
The one-year term will begin on Jan. 1.

Webcams Offer Glimpse Of Newport-Mesa Construction -- OCR
Parents and others can see progress of Measure F projects at several schools.

OC Lenders In Subprime Market Disappearing -- OCR
Irvine's Option One Mortgage is latest casualty.

Couple Pumped Up On Natural Gas Cars -- OCR
Fullerton pair installs home fueling system; spend an average $1 per gallon.

'Mr. OCC' Leaving Orange Coast College -- OCR
Jim Carnett to retire after 36-year career.

Clinic Has Fielded 10,000 Visits This Year -- OCR
One patient has been treated for diabetes, arthritis and high blood pressure for nearly a decade.

White House Collector To Make Yorba Linda Visit -- OCR
Barry Landau has amassed millions of pieces of memorabilia through his long association with the White House.

NB Council Says No To Trail Because Of Concerns -- DP
The Costa Mesa City Council voted 3-2 to abandon a proposal that would construct a multipurpose trail in a flood channel throughout Costa Mesa during a meeting Tuesday night.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- December 4, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Supervisor Janet Nguyen Fined For Campaign Violations -- OCR and LAT
County board member has agreed to pay $5,000 for improperly setting up a legal-defense fund.

Santa Ana Approves $100 Million For Local Streets -- OCR
The city plans to rebuild, recycle or repave miles of worn-out neighborhood streets over the next five years.

Frank Mickadeit: New Set Of Legal Woes For Bishop -- OCR (12/3/07)
Church back in court.

Frank Mickadeit: Church-We'll Tell Victims Ourselves -- OCR
When have I heard this before?

Orange Grove: Fires Are Easier To Fight Than To Prevent -- OCR
More needs to be done, including volunteer patrols, to stop blazes from starting

Day Labor Fight Costly For Laguna Beach -- LAT
Laguna Beach has spent $75,000 in legal fees to fight opponents of a day-labor center -- more than three times the amount it spends annually to operate the place, according to city records.

Huntington Beach Could Buy School Land -- OCR
The council approved a plan that would let the city acquire parts of Huntington Beach City School District sites.

'Despicable Videotapes' -- OCR
Molestation videotapes to be shown to jurors.

Dog Park Voted Down In Mission Viejo's Alicia Park -- OCR
Oso Park is still a potential site.

Anaheim To Spend $8 Million On City Hall West -- OCR
Officials: 16-year-old building needs refurbishing, new furniture.

'World Of Warcraft' Made Blizzard 'Crown Jewel' In $9.8 Billion Deal -- OCR
Irvine-based Blizzard was key to Activision-Vivendi merger.

City To Reveal Rehab Plan -- DP
Newport Beach will unveil a proposed ordinance to curtail the spread of drug and alcohol rehabilitation homes in the city later this week, officials said Monday.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- December 3, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

OC Sheriff's Aide Sought Status, Power -- LAT
Donald Haidl had made millions in business but hungered for something else. Prosecutors say he went after it by backing Sheriff Michael S. Carona.

Supreme Court Justice Coming To Chapman University -- OCR
Clarence Thomas will speak and sign his new book.

Squabbles Hamper OC Indian Tribe -- LAT
Disputes between Juaneño factions could have jeopardized their chances to gain federal recognition and, possibly, a casino.

Santa Ana Considering $100 Million Plan To Fix Streets -- OCR
Underfunded for years, more than half of the city's neighborhood streets need major work.

New Santa Ana Bank Will Serve Latino Community -- LAT
The Santa Ana Business Bank is largely Latino-owned.

Factions Debate Beneficiaries Of City's Plans -- DP
A roughly $43 million development agreement with the Irvine Co. will likely affect a February ballot measure that would require Newport Beach’s next city hall to be built next to the central library.

Editorial: Beek Should Be Consistent With Positions -- DP
We’d like to share an old cliché with longtime Newport Beach activist Allan Beek that seems apropos today.

No Fire, No Free Pass On Toll Road, Firefighters Told -- LAT
An L.A. County crew en route to a funeral blows past a booth, is caught on camera and fined. They are flabbergasted; the Orange County transportation agency is unapologetic.

OC Key To Mega-Game Merger -- OCR
Parent company of Blizzard and Activision, maker of Tony Hawk skateboarding game, in $19 billion deal.

Sales Of OC Businesses Rebound In November -- OCR
The number of businesses sold here increased in November to 298, up 10.8 percent from a year earlier and up 32 percent from October.

Canyon Residents Return Home To Dig Out from Mud, Debris -- OCR
Properties at risk for mudslides; Red Cross shelter closed.

UCI Study Supports Anti-Cancer Nature Of Grapes -- OCR
Low doses of freeze-dried grape powder appears to “inhibit genes linked to the development of sporadic colorectal cancet.

NOTE TO READERS: I'd have linked to Frank Mickadeit's column and Martin Wisckol's Buzz column except the the "Columns" section of the OCR website is empty.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 30, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Barbara Boxer Blocking Jim Rogan Judicial Nomination -- OCR
It's payback time from the Marin County lefty.

Clinton Gets Standing Ovations From Evangelicals -- OCR and LAT
The presidential contender was the only candidate to speak at the AIDS summit.

Initiative Launched Against Disney -- OCR
A group files paperwork for a ballot measure that would require voter approval of a Disney theme park.

Editorial: Wrongly Seized Pot Must Be Returned -- OCR
Appellate court tells Garden Grove it can't rely on federal ban on medical marijuana

Editorial: Judge Correctly Clears Laguna Beach Center -- OCR
Anti-illegal-immigration activists lose a battle in Laguna Beach over day-labor center.

Sacramento Development Firm To Buy Boeing Site In Anaheim -- OCR
The commercial developer is in escrow to buy the Anaheim plant, home to the city's second-largest employer.

Education Key To Learning English For Immigrants -- OCR and LAT
According to a report, Latino immigrants with higher education levels or who came here as children are more likely to learn English.

Spending Balloons To Enhance Great Park -- LAT
Irvine plans to spend $14 million on amenities at the Great Park and still give free rides, despite some objections.

Harman Hosts Meeting To One Attendee, Leaves Early -- DP
State Sen. Tom Harman held an open meeting with constituents Thursday, but a low turnout prompted him to duck out early.

Housing Project Goes To NB Council -- DP
The Newport Beach Planning Commission approved a multimillion dollar development agreement with the Irvine Co. Thursday night to create a new planned community in Newport Center.

Pioneering Traffic Signal Debuts In Fullerton -- OCR
Flashing yellow arrows at major intersections can save drivers time, but some say they're confusing.

Garden Grove Man Pleads Guilty To Sea Lion Stabbing -- OCR, LAT and DP
Hai Nguyen, 24, admitted to fatally stabbing the marine mammal in violation of federal law during a July incident.

Santa Ana Wins $1 Million For Bike Trail -- OCR
State grant will help pay for link between city's existing loop of trails and Costa Mesa's bike paths.

Welcome Signposts To Mark HB City Boundaries -- OCR
Designs include 14-foot-tall surfboard with the words 'Huntington Beach, Surf City U.S.A.'

Newport Beach Golf Course Won't Get Bulldozed -- OCR
John Wayne Airport officials back off plans to turn back nine into parking lot.

Anaheim-Based Non-Proft Helps Seniors Stay Independent -- OCR
Virginia Erk hated staying in a nursing home when she had kidney problems in 2001.

Crossing The Thin Blue Line -- OC Weekly
Police expert slams OC Sheriff’s Department for ‘cowboy’ attitude and ‘fatal errors’ that led to a street execution.

Beasts Of Burnin' -- OC Weekly
An outlaw animal-rights group targets a local bank branch in its war on animal testing.

¿Quien Es Más Mafia? -- OC Weekly
How the bishop and the sheriff stack up against the Godfather

Sister Knows Best -- OC Weekly
If the nuns in charge of the St. Joseph Health System are so pro-labor,why are some of their employees determined to unionize?

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 29, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Sheriff's Wife Backed No-Bid Contract For Swap Meet -- OCR
Swap meet operator had given thousands to campaign of Deborah Carona's husband, Mike.

Frank Mickadeit: Did Brown Really Want To Clear Name? -- OCR
Bishop's contempt hearing is off.

Citation Against OC Bishop Dropped -- LAT
The diocese and attorneys for the plaintiff in the sex-abuse case disagree, however, over what led to the action.

A River Might Run Through It -- OCR
Cal State Fullerton students to unveil design for Santa Ana river 'parkway.'

Editorial: Plan For Housing Near Disney Park Fizzles -- OCR
Finally, the SunCal plan for Resort District housing has died.

Court Orders Garden Grove Police To Return Seized Pot -- OCR
Ruling by state appeal judges is a win for medical marijuana patients, advocates say.

Placentia Businesses Adjust To Failed Development -- OCR
Owners of Crowther properties say they have lost time.

Anaheim To Kill Power At Motel To Remove Residents -- OCR
Problems highlight hurdles for Anaheim and residents in solving motel-family problem.

Shuttles OK'd For JWA Area -- OCR
Three routes will begin this spring.

Settlement Will Help Injured Women Continue Rehabilitation -- LAT and OCR
eriously injured while jogging in Dana Point, they see the city's payment as a way to cope. But still they miss their 'supermom' roles.

Newport-Mesa Studies Plan To Create K-6 Schools -- OCR
Schools now divide many elementary students among multiple schools.

Dana Parsons: It's Hard To Embrace The Penalty For Hugging In School -- LAT
Dana writes about the hugging dealio at Hewes Middle School in Tustin.

Warren Calls Leadership The Key To Defeating AIDS -- OCR
Three-day conference at Saddleback Church includes Sen. Hillary Clinton on Thursday.

Protesters Turn Silent -- DP
Muslim students at UCI take different approach to rebuked historian’s return.

City Gives OK On Lawsuit -- DP
Online travel site representative says city confused about process, will become losing situation with case.

The Political Landscape: Bill To Back Nuclear Plant -- DP
State energy can’t sustain on just wind and solar powers, assemblyman says. Opposition mounts.

Local Company Designs Hybrid Local Power Plant -- DP
Inland Energy, a Newport Beach developer, has designed a hybrid power plant that officials said would be the first to combine natural gas with solar power when it opens in 2010.

Opinion: New Mayor Needs Leadership Skills -- DP
Barbara Venezia opines that the new mayor needs leadership skills.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 28, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Injured Joggers Receive $50 Million -- OCR and LAT
The San Clemente mothers became quadriplegics after being struck by hit and run driver.

Anaheim Council Nixes Disney-Area Housing Plan -- OCR and LAT
The City Council changes its mind on housing near Disneyland and removes a related item from the June ballot.

Sheriff's Wife Backed No-Bid Contract For Husband's Campaign Donor -- LAT
Deborah Carona urged Orange County Fair Board directors to support a swap meet operator despite a proposal from rival firm.

Orange Closer To Tougher Rules On Day Workers -- OCR
The city is poised to designate areas where solicitation will be off-limits.

$1 Million Grant Brings Artificial Intelligence To Capo Unified -- OCR
The South County district is the only one in O.C. to receive the award.

Billboards Along Anaheim Freeways Considered -- OCR
City trying to get billboards out of town and placed along freeways.

Residents Worried About Little Saigon Makeover -- OCR
Families who live in mobile home parks along Bolsa Avenue in Westminster are concerned their homes will be erased in the city's bid to spruce up Little Saigon

Tustin School's Hugging Policy Garners Support -- OCR
Principal and some parents back the rule not allowing “frontal” hugging that got two students suspended.

Another Fullerton Church Vandalized -- OCR
Two windows broken at Mormon church; authorities say there's no connection to vandalism at other LDS church.

Seal Beach Settles In Behind Completed Berm -- OCR
Sand helps protect homes from winter waves.

$1 Million Gift To UCI To Enhance Faculty Research -- DP
An anonymous $1 million gift to UCI has created the Jack W. Peltason Endowed Chair to enhance teaching and research for faculty, school officials announced Tuesday.

District Receives Unity Support -- DP
Teachers and parents appear to support the Newport-Mesa school board’s plan to bring some uniformity to the district by converting all of the elementary schools to kindergarten-through-sixth-grade schools.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 27, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Effort to Recall Rocco Dropped -- OCR
A possible, costly special election thwart efforts to oust controversial trustee.

Carona's Wife Tries To Free Herself From Case -- OCR
Attorney for Debbie Carona says prosecutors want to 'get to the sheriff by getting to his family.'

Disney-Area Home Plan May Die Tonight -- OCR
The City Council is expected to remove residential zoning from the Anaheim Resort area.

Sex-Harassment Ruling Overturned -- OCR
Appellate court's decision also means fired county worker will get a new trial.

Tougher Day-Labor Rules On Agenda In Orange -- OCR
Proposal would prohibit solicitation from private property without owner's permission.

Judge Backs Laguna Beach Over Day Labor Site -- OCR and LAT
Insufficient evidence was provided to show the city's funding of the hiring site is illegal, according to a judge's proposed ruling.

OC Transit Chief Gets 9% Pay Raise -- OCR
Some on OCTA board object to a bonus, that makes Art Leahy's salary higher than that of the county CEO.

Postal Service Addresses CIty's Traffic Concerns About Proposed Project -- OCR
Laguna Hills city staff identified potential traffic impacts related to the proposed mail distribution facility in Aliso Viejo.

Newport Beach Sued Over City Hall Measure -- OCR
Activist Allan Beek wants a judge to void an initiative that would let voters decide where to place municipal headquarters.

Feds Don't Believe Juanenos Rate Recognition -- OCR and LAT
Bureau of Indian Affairs issued negative ruling.

AFL-CIO Has Beef With Grocery Chain -- OCR
Labor council worries about non-union Fresh & Easy in Anaheim today.

Prado Wetlands Come Back -- OCR
Storm waters ripped through the Prado wetlands two years ago; a restoration effort is repairing the damage.

Church Vandalism Deemed A Hate Crime -- OCR
Satanic, Nazi symbols painted on walls of Fullerton LDS center.

$200,000 Missing From Los Alamitos Non-Profit -- OCR
Seven-year employee suspected of being behind missing money, director says.

Glass Wall Has Birders Seeing Red -- OCR
Raptors at Bolsa Chica have died after flying into the structure. The developer says a windscreen will help.

District May Convert Schools -- DP
The Newport-Mesa school board on Monday discussed plans to convert all of the district’s elementary schools to kindergarten through sixth-grade schools and turn Davis School into a magnet school.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 26, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

UCI Experts To Help Take Earth's Temperature -- OCR
UCI hires five experts on abrupt climate change.

Vietnamese Martyrs Honored At Mass -- OCR and LAT
Thousands of Vietnamese Catholics fill UCI's Bren Events Center for annual celebration.

UCI To Endow $1 Million Professorship In Peltason's Name -- OCR
UC Irvine is preparing to create a $1 million endowed chair in the name of Jack Peltason, who helped establish the campus as a nationally-renowned research center during eight years as chancellor.

OC GOP Cowers At Taking A Stand On Carona -- OCR (11/25/07)
GOP pulls a Hillary Rodham Clinton and stands by its man, Sheriff Mike Carona.

Reader Rebuttal: Costa Mesa And ICE -- OCR (11/25/07)
C.M. Mayor responds to OCR hand-wringing over city's ICE program.

Reader Rebuttal: Gang Injunctions -- OCR (11/25/07)
District Attorney Tony Rackauckas responds to OCR hand-wringing over anti-gang injunctions.

District Plan Worries Parents -- DP
The parents of special education students who griped earlier this month about the way Newport-Mesa Unified School District is teaching their kids have legitimate complaints, district officials said, but school leaders are asking for patience as the special education department is revamped.

Dec. 11 Ribbon-Cutting On Golf Course -- OCR
The $5.3 million, 12,000-square-foot golf clubhouse at the municipal course welcomes the public.

Newport Beach Council To Vote On Location On Panini Cafe -- DP
The Newport Beach City Council will consider at its regular meeting Tuesday whether a popular restaurant should be allowed to relocate to a crowded block despite complaints from residents.

NOTE TO READERS: As per usual, there are OC Register stories missing from the round up because they aren't on the website. For example, the top-of-the-fold story about an 18-year Costa Mesan and UCI student spearheading an initiative to freeze state college tuition -- nowhere on the website. Same for Mickadeit's and Wisckol's column. In fact, for the last three weeks, the OCR doesn't put Monday "Buzz" column online until Tuesday. There are to other prominent stories from the Local section absent here. Sorry.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 24, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Low-income housing backer in Anaheim won't give up -- LAT
Even though the outcome of a City Council vote on Tuesday should halt the debate for now, supporters says the fight will go on.

Good deal hunting -- OCR
Dawn to dusk, Orange County shoppers were in fast gear for Black Friday. Here’s a snapshot of the day.

Malibu burns again; low humidity creates danger in OC -- OCR
High winds spark devastating fire in Malibu, trigger alerts in Orange County

Anaheim Hills crash kills driver, hurts passenger -- OCR and LAT
Driver loses control on Santa Ana Canyon Road, slams into telephone pole.

Vietnamese community remembers a modern 'martyr' -- OCR
Father Joseph DucMinh knew the man who may be Vietnam's next saint.

Orange to consider more stringent day laborer rules -- OCR
Officials to meet Tuesday to discuss proposal to curb problems

Huntington Beach man charged with bird annoyance -- OCR
Charles Michael Harris faces arraignment Tuesday on seven misdemeanor environmental charges.

Pressure bears down on college-bound -- OCR
Local high school students shooting for a spot at a top university feel the strain.

Few Friday blues -- DP
Holiday hordes rush to get shopping started. While some had to wait in long lines, others just enjoyed the spirited ambience.

City to address waiting boaters -- DP
Newport Beach will begin to whittle down its lengthy waiting list for boat moorings next year— a daunting task, considering some have been waiting for a mooring for 30 years, harbor officials say.

Costa Mesa OKs $1.4M playground for disabled -- DP
The Costa Mesa City Council has approved the construction of the city’s first playground for the disabled. The $1.4-million project at TeWinkle Park will be funded through a grant from the state Parks and Recreation Department and private fundraising by the Angels Charity nonprofit.

Driver arrested on suspicion of assault with truck -- LAT
A Yorba Linda man was arrested Friday on suspicion of seriously injuring a pedestrian in Fullerton by ramming him with his pickup truck, police said.

Bilingual court center to provide info more quickly  -- DP
A new call center expediting information gathering at courts is slated to open for public use at the Orange County Superior Court on Monday.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 23, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Editorial: Carona Should End Department's Limbo -- OCR
Indicted sheriff's resignation would end uncertainty at top of the agency

Red Flag Fire Warning -- OCR
Blustery winds, low humidity, drought imperil wild land areas

Reports Spotlight Increased Risk Of Mudslides -- LAT
Surveys find heavy rains could weaken charred hillsides. Areas of eastern O.C., Bouquet Canyon and Val Verde are in greatest danger.

Lake Forest Waives Fees For Fire Repairs -- OCR
The city sustained minimal damage to public infrastructure.

Editorial: Little Saigon Doesn't Need Outside Help -- OCR
Urban planners suggest big-city-style transformation of the landmark small-business area

Newport Coast Is Zillow's Most Watched OC ZIP Codes -- OCR
Three Santa Ana ZIP codes were at the bottom of the list … 92703, 92701, 92704.

Corona Del Mar Official Changes Ballot Title To Reflect Neutrality -- DP
Amid concerns of position, Corona del Mar’s Chamber of Commerce treasurer removed the organization’s name from a ballot argument against City Hall in the Park ballot initiative.

Newport Official Seeks Funding For Harbor Cleanup -- DP
Newport Beach Councilwoman Leslie Daigle wants residents to contact their Washington representatives about funding a multimillion dollar harbor cleanup.

Fountain Valley Targets Illegally Parked Trailers -- OCR
Owners could pay more than double the $34 fine if the proposal is adopted.

Applications Available For OC Grand Jury Seats -- LAT (11/22/07)
Surveys find heavy rains could weaken charred hillsides. Areas of eastern O.C., Bouquet Canyon and Val Verde are in greatest danger.

Historic Clock Set To Return To Buena Park -- OCR
Andrew Dreger's creation greeted Knott's Berry Farm visitors for more than 50 years.

NOTE TO READERS: There are several OC Register stories that -- although prominent in the print Local section -- are absent from the  horrible OCR website. For example, the page 2 story about the Seal Beach Naval Weapons station and the page 4 story about Buena Park considering seeking charter status.

The OCR posted this a couple of days ago: "New Goals For Our Web Coverage." I'd like to suggest two additions to their "8 pillars":

1) Develop a site search engine that isn't next-to-useless.

2) Ensure that stories in that day's print edition can be easily found online, rather than absent or buried deep amongst 3-7 day old stories.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 22, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Frank Mickadeit: Thanksgiving - Just One Per Presidency -- OCR
Talking turkey in Tustin

Santiago Fire Still Putting Lives, Property At Risk -- OCR and LAT
State also identifies 68 properties as being at risk for floods, slides, falling debris.

Vietnamese Community Remembers A Modern 'Martyr' -- OCR
Father Joseph DucMinh knew the man who may be Vietnam's next saint.

U.S. Postal Service Proposes Smaller Facility In Aliso Viejo -- OCR
City officials will wait for a revised environmental assessment.

Movement Grows Against Costco Proposal In HB -- OCR
Even Westminster city officials are joining the fight against putting a Costco on Golden West College property.

The Political Landscape: GOP Calendar Girls -- DP
Young Republicans hope $15 calendar will entice younger men to group, debunk stereotypes.

Tustin Middle School Students Suspended For Repeated Hugging -- OCR
Parents and students protested outside of Hewes Middle School.

Santa Ana Bookseller Gets National Spotlight -- OCR
CBS Evening News plans to air profile of Ruebén Martinez, bookstore owner and champion of reading.

Facelift OK'd For Hotel Near South Coast Plaza -- OCR
High-rise condo tower also will be built at Wyndham hotel under plans approved late Tuesday.

Walt's Hideaway -- LAT
His secret apartment at Disneyland was his home away from home. Now the park is planning tours for selected guests.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 21, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Supervisors Searching For Options On Carona -- OCR
Officials question Carona's self-imposed leave and change policy that allowed him to hire assistants.

OC Board Stiffens Assistant Sheriff Rules --LAT
Supervisors kill a waiver that let Carona promote Jaramillo and Haidl, who have pleaded guilty in the corruption scandal.

Frank Mickadeit: Supes get It Right - Nine Years Too Late -- OCR
Could supes have stopped him?

Congressman's Children Missing -- OCR
The mother of the three boys reportedly took them rather than turn them over to Gary Miller for temporary custody.

Job Center Closure Doesn't Deter Day Laborers -- OCR
It's been two years since City Council shut the doors, but men line the sidewalks every day.

Santa Ana 'Renaissance' Won't Displace Residents, City Officials Pledge -- OCR (11/20/07)
A sweeping plan to reinvigorate the downtown area calls for big change, but city leaders say it won't force out people already there.

OC Responds To Food Shortage -- OCR
Donations pour into local food banks and pantries in time for Thanksgiving.

Sanchez Asks Rice To Help Vietnamese Detainees -- OCR
Three lawmakers write letter after two U.S. citizens arrested in Ho Chi Minh City.

Facelift OK'd For Hotel Near South Coast Plaza -- OCR and DP
High-rise condo tower also will be built at Wyndham hotel under plans approved late Tuesday.

Equity's Gone For 35% Of Recent SoCal Homebuyers -- OCR
Like the headline says.

OC Biologists Have Different Takes On Stem Cell Advance -- OCR
Like the headline says.

Costco Wants To Put Store On College Land -- LAT
Golden West College in Huntington Beach considers leasing 14 acres now used for parking and three sports fields, but faces objections.

Vinh Quoc Duan's Artwork Makes Its U.S. Debut In Orange County -- LAT
inh Quoc Doan's art is serenely grounded in his Vietnamese heritage.

Westminster Dog Owner May Spend Time In Prison For Attack -- LAT
The owner of a pit bull faces the possibility of three years in prison after her dog attacked a letter carrier, Orange County prosecutors said Monday.

Flouride Now Added To OC Water Supply -- LAT
The Southern California region's giant Metropolitan Water District is now adding fluoride to Orange County's water supply.

Carlsbad's Poseidon Gets Coastal Commission OK -- OCR
The commission's favorable vote for Poseidon in Carlsbad could set a precedent for Surf City

Legal Fight Brews Over Pacific Golf Club Project -- OCR
Proponent of proposal to build homes at golf club files a lawsuit over ballot statements he says are false.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 20, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

GOP Could Call For Carona To Resign -- OCR
The county party stops short of action at its meeting tonight, but will soon consider whether to ask the sheriff to step down permanently.

$31 Million Science Center To Rise At Santiago College -- OCR
The trustees that oversee Santiago Canyon College in east Orange are preparing to give final approval to the school’s first permanent science building.

LA County Sheriff Probing Possible Abduction Of Three of Rep. Gary Miller's Grandchildren -- OCR
Like the headline says.

Editorial: Gang Injunctions Cast Too Wide A Net -- OCR
Sweeping orders can be applied to anyone suspected of having gang ties

Huntington Beach Bans Medical Marijuana Dispensaries -- OCR
Council members had voted in 2005 to permit medical marijuana dispensaries to comply with the state law.

Safest And Most Dangerous Cities Across The U.S. -- OCR and LAT
When news broke naming Mission Viejo the safest city in the nation, the phones at City Hall wouldn't stop ringing.

Supervisors Consider Tightening Rules For Sheriff -- OCR
Earlier change allowed the hire of an assistant sheriff subsequently convicted of a felony

Flouride Now Added To OC Water Supply -- LAT
The Southern California region's giant Metropolitan Water District is now adding fluoride to Orange County's water supply.

Rescued Sea Lion Returns To Newport Beach -- DP
Animal rescuers caught a stubborn sea lion Monday that had wandered into a popular Newport Beach tourist spot and refused to be lured back to the ocean.

Church Battles For Land Rights -- DP
Attorneys for St. James Anglican church in Newport Beach recently filed the opening brief in a California Supreme Court property dispute case that could affect churches statewide.

Harman Hands Out Turkeys To Military Families, Shelters -- DP
Sen. Tom Harman gave Thanksgiving turkeys this week to the American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291.

Dead Birds Found Near Hearthside's Glass Wall -- OCR
Project official said the company is looking for a way to ensure the birds can see the wall and future residents can see out.

More Money Sought For Yorba Linda Trees, Lights -- OCR
City officials say lawns may grow wild and landscaped street medians may be filled in with concrete if higher tax is not approved.

Laguna Hills Plans To Monitor Mail Facility's Traffic Impact -- OCR
A mail distribution center in Aliso Viejo could affect Laguna Hills traffic, city leaders say.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 19, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Faulty Fire Alarms At Santa Ana College Put Thousands At Risk -- LAT
The alarms have been broken since 2005, according to contractor reports. 'Something's rotten, trustee board president said, 'and we're going to find out about it.'

HB Council To Take UP Medical Marijuana Ban On Monday -- OCR
The city's proposed ban on medical marijuana dispensaries mirrors a Southern California trend.

2,200 Marines Return To Pendleton -- OCR
They were serving in Iraq and elsewhere for seven months.

Forecast For Strong Santa Ana Winds Downgraded -- OCR
National Weather Service has backed off its earlier prediction that the Santa Ana winds would blow up hard for three days, including on Thanksgiving Day.

Group Is Revitalizing Gateway To Huntington Harbour -- OCR
The Sea Isle Garden Club is planning to raise $400,000 for the Edinger Parkway project.

San Jose's Vietnamese District Building A Name For Itself -- LAT
The smaller counterpart to Orange County's Little Saigon has an official name to be voted on this week and a business development slated to open next year.

NOTE TO READERS: The two top local stories in the OC Register are a follow-up on the Sana Ana College fire alarm story and another on the DA's office and Carona. I'd loved to have linked to them, but the OC Register lamely failed to include them in its website.

Same for Martin Wiskol's Buzz column, which has been omitted from the website for the second week in a row.

I appreciate the OC Register's ongoing attempts to bloggify their website, but maybe they can start with basics like including their latest news stories on their website.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 18, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

‘Our right to protest’ -- DP
NEWPORT BEACH — Protesters swarmed the intersection outside the Island Hotel Saturday night to protest an appearance by former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, who came to the hotel to make a speech and accept an award from a conservative institute.

Competitive juices fuel Carona prosecutor -- OCR
Carona prosecutor is young, competitive and hates to lose

Food banks look to fill shelves as holidays near -- OCR
Food donations, especially from the federal government, are down and food banks say more and more families need help.

Immigration debate gnaws at meaning of citizenship -- OCR
In California, and elsewhere in the United States, activists are debating not only immigration – but who should get to be a citizen.

For Magic Johnson, Dana Point vacation home's a slam dunk -- LAT
It took a year to find it, but L.A. Lakers legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson and his wife, Cookie, have purchased what they call their "vacation home" in time for Thanksgiving.

Canyon communities come together after the fire -- OCR
Hundreds come together to raise funds for those who lost their homes and to thank firefighters.

Santa Ana church embraces the new -- OCR
First Presbyterian celebrates 125 years – and the wave of nationalities it now calls family.

Council moving quickly on deal -- DP
The Newport Beach City Council could be poised to approve a multimillion dollar development agreement with the Irvine Co. by the end of the year, but some citizens are concerned the deal is moving too fast and without enough public input.

Fire alarms broken at Santa Ana College -- OCR
Some officials knew of problem for two years.

Much of O.C.'s water gets fluoride starting Monday -- OCR
See list to determine how much your city is affected.

Fundraising poses a challenge for UCI's law school -- LAT
Just as incoming Dean Erwin Chemerinsky finally gets his post locked in, a new obstacle awaits: raising millions of dollars to open the institution, without an alumni base.

Edison zaps lease-and-build program -- LAT
Buildings will no longer be allowed under power lines in Southern California. Projects already built, including a self-storage complex near Anaheim, are safe, utility says.

Costa Mesa police arrest man with dagger -- DP
Costa Mesa police arrested a man whom they caught prowling around an apartment complex with a dagger early Saturday morning, Lt. Dale Birney said.

JWA growth an issue that won't go away  -- DP
Maybe in the future air commuters will be able to park their cars at what will be called the John Wayne Airport and Transportation Center, and instead of boarding a flight right there, hop on a train and take a maglev ride to Ontario Airport or points beyond.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 17, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Much of O.C.'s water gets fluoride starting Monday -- OCR
See list to determine how much your city is affected.

Assemblyman hands out turkeys to the community -- DP
Assemblyman Van Tran (R-Costa Mesa) joined forces with the Golden State Water company and more than a dozen community organizations Friday to distribute 100 Thanksgiving Turkeys to those in need.

Fashion Island Christmas tree lights up the night -- OCR and DP
Hundreds attend a nighttime show.

911 hacking suspect pleads not guilty -- OCR
Authorities say Randall Ellis hacked into the county's 911 system and caused officers to respond to the home of a couple and their two toddlers.

Jailbirds flock together -- LAT
If O.C. Sheriff Mike Carona and baseball player Barry Bonds meet behind locked doors, it might go something like this.

Robby is still gigging after 70 years -- OCR
Costa Mesa trombonist recalls working with the greats.

Rohrabacher receives Medal of Freedom in D.C. -- DP
Rep. Dana Rohrabacher was one of three recipients of the Truman-Reagan Medal of Freedom during a ceremony this week at the Hungarian embassy in Washington, D.C.

Man arrested in theft of 1.8 million Social Security numbers -- OCR
The man is also charged in using actor Marlon Wayans' credit card at Tustin store.

SWAT team stumbles upon suspects -- OCR
Men found allegedly stealing from abandoned training building.

City to appeal crash payoff -- DP
Costa Mesa officials plan to appeal a recent verdict that awarded $8.7 million to a Costa Mesa man who was paralyzed in a car crash at the Adams Avenue overpass.

Rosansky cleared by letter -- DP
An independent investigation has determined Newport Beach Mayor Steve Rosansky has no conflict of interest in regulating rehabilitation homes, but a local activist says the mayor has tried to cover up past business dealings with a rehab home operator.

Toll road to open in San Diego County amid expectations -- LAT
The second private tollway in the state is the latest move to ease congestion by having motorists pay.

Carona stripped of national security clearance -- LAT
The Orange County sheriff, who is facing corruption charges, has also been forced to give up his seat on Homeland Security's advisory council.

Judge OKs curbs on 2 O.C. gangs -- LAT
Preliminary injunctions target more than 200 alleged members in San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. Officials say the groups terrorize their communities

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 16, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Carona Forced To Quit Homeland Security Task Force -- OCR
Federal officials also strip sheriff of his security clearance.

OC Sheriff Faces June Trial On Corruption Trial -- LAT
But the restrictions on Michael Carona and his wife are eased slightly to allow contact with their tax preparer.

County, State Investigators Stopped Short Of Charging Carona -- OCR
District Attorney's Office denies reluctance to pursue the sheriff.

Carona's Legal Team Calls Prosecutors Cruel -- OCR
List handed to judge names two dozen as potential witnesses.

Santa Anas To Gust 50-60 MPH On Thanksgiving -- OCR
Santa Ana winds will blow for three days next week, starting on Tuesday and lasting all the way through Thanksgiving, with gusts as high as 80 mph in Fremont Canyon, above the Anaheim Hills.

Op-Ed: 'No Match' Letters Prevent Identity Theft -- HB Independent
Assemblyman Jim Silva criticizes judical delay of Homeland Security Dept.'s 'no mathc' letters.

Nooses Found On Campus Prompt Outcry -- LAT
Students and faculty at Cal State Fullerton rally against hate after the discovery of the racially charged symbol at a tolerance rally.

Reward Offered Over Animal Beheadings -- LAT
Nonprofit that seeks to end cruelty to animals offers $500 for information leading to a conviction in Laguna Beach mutilations.

Smog Sensors Targeting Vehicles In OC -- LAT
The remote monitoring program measures emission levels. The owners of gross polluters will be offered aid.

A New York-Style Vision For Little Saigon -- LAT
Land-use experts propose transforming the district into a destination with lofts, high-end stores, hotels and sidewalk cafes.

Goats Could Prevent Fires -- DP
Firefighters speculate on possibility that goats, which aren’t picky eaters, could fix brush problem near Corona del Mar.

Newport Beach Man To Plead Guilty To Ponzi Scheme -- LAT
A man has agreed to plead guilty to federal fraud and money laundering charges and admit he ran a bogus investment program that cost victims nearly $4.2 million, the U.S. attorney’s office said Wednesday.

Deputy Arrested On Sex Charges -- OCR and LAT
21-year veteran accused of picking up Harbor Boulevard prostitutes while on duty in patrol car.

GardenWalk's First Restaurant Debuts -- OCR
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. on Saturday is first tenant to open its doors at new outdoor mall in Anaheim.

Defendant Says City Didn't Notify Him Of Filed Lawsuit -- DP
A Newport Beach businessman named as a defendant in a lawsuit against two local rehabilitation homes said Thursday the city gave him no warning before filing the suit.

Group Scans Ash Flow -- DP
Costa Mesa scientific researchers say water basins are helping to prevent fire soot from poisoning our water.

Costa Mesa Sidesteps Qualms About Sidewalk Plans -- DP
osta Mesa wants to add sidewalks to Broadway, which requires residents’ space. “This is just wrong,” said an angry resident.

Lake Forest Community Is Losing Cats To Coyotes -- OCR
Coyote warning signs are posted to warn residents of cat snatchings.

Fleming Starts 2nd 'Thanks' Campaign To Troops -- OCR
Chapman University students to launch national campaign to send free text messages to service members.

Editorial: Nabbing Immigrants, Not So Many Felons -- OCR
Jail-check program touted as way to snare career criminals has snagged lots of small fry

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup --

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

IRS Owes Tustin Residents Thousands -- OCR
Forty-four Tustin residents are cumulatively owed $32,209 from IRS.

Mock Terrorist Attack At Angel Stadium Closes 57 Freeway -- OCR
Police and firefighters hustle preparing for any disaster that might come.

Smog Check Program Beams Up Polluters -- OCR
Remote sensors will be on O.C. freeway onramps this week in a hunt for the highest polluting cars.

Possible Human Remains In Disney's Pirate Ride -- OCR
Security officials respond to a suspicious powder at the Pirates of the Caribbean.

City Sees A Vision For Little Saigon -- OCR and LAT
Panel suggests a downtown with electronic screens, open-air market, cultural center.

Strong Santa Ana Winds Expected Next Week -- OCR
Long-term computer models indicate that Orange County will  experience strong Santa Ana winds next Tuesday and Wednesday.

Newport Sues Drug Rehab Homes -- OCR
Addiction treatment houses opened in violation of city law, officials say.

Parkside Project Gets OK From Coastal Commission -- OCR
Shea Homes proponents and opponents are confused, however, as to exactly how much land both sides lost for their causes.

Southland Home Prices Drop To 2005 Levels -- LAT
The median last month was $444,000, down 8% from a year earlier.

OCC's Living History -- DP
Former OCC faculty member thanks others for his success while he is honored with renaming of campus’ first lecture hall.

City Hall Traffic A Concern -- DP
Newport residents against ballot measure believe building city hall next to the city’s central library would cause gridlock.

Op-Ed: Campaigns Not Way To Elect Sheriff -- DP
Barbara Venezia sounds like she's calling for making the post appointive, rather than elected.

Newport Activists Push Stricter Rehab Stance -- DP
Newport Beach activists say a lawsuit the city recently filed against two local rehabilitation centers is a good start but not enough.

The Political Landscape: Air Transport Just Dream -- DP
News from Newport-Mesa's political waterfront.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 14, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Students, Debater Walk Out On Immigration Debate With Jim Gilchrist -- OCR
They won't even take on Jim Gilchrist? Weak.

Frank Mickadeit: Jeff Nielsen Scores Meyer And Barnett -- OCR
Molestation trial's new look.

Gordon Dillow: Jail Deportation Programs Make County Safer -- OCR
Two detention facilities check arrestees' immigration status.

A More Diverse Little Saigon -- OCR
Panelists who studied the Vietnamese enclave say future development in the area should transcend cultural and generational barriers

Santiago Fire Continues To Smolder -- OCR
Thought 100 percent contained, a small flare up kept firefighters busy.

Santa Ana Schools May Cut $17 Million -- LAT
Enrollment declines in California coastal counties have many other districts looking for ways to save. Student populations are booming in inland areas.

From Ashes To Ashes, At Disneyland -- LAT
Surreptitious scattering of people's remains at parks, golf courses and other unusual posts may be growing.

The Nelsons Go To Washington And Meet President Bush -- OCR
Make-A-Wish fulfills Fullerton woman's request.

Laguna Woods Residents Say Land Deal Shorted Them -- OCR
Foundation sold their land for $3.4 million—now it's worth $20 million.

Terror Test To Shorten 57 Freeway -- OCR
Brief shutdown at 9:55 a.m. Wednesday will be for security exercise to practice for terrorist attack.

Flouridation Continues, Despite Outcry -- DP
State officials and pediatric dentists voiced support at the Newport Beach City Council meeting Tuesday for putting fluoride in the region’s drinking water, while opponents argued the plan could cause unforeseen health problems.

Huntington Beach Skate Park To Close -- OCR
Officials said they'll help fund a bit of the relocation costs for a new facility at Worthy Park.

Hoag Hospital Gets $1 Million For Diabetes Care -- OCR and DP
Money will fund new education center, which trains staff and helps patients manage their conditions.

Retired School Secretary Must Repay $150,000 -- OCR
Carlotta McCarthy, 57, was also sentenced to a year of house arrest in a plea deal reached Tuesday.

'Small World' Rehab Will Keep The Big Kids Afloat -- LAT
Disneyland insists fat tourists aren't to blame, but the park's upgrade of its 41-year-old attraction will include deepening the waterway and making its boats more buoyant.

Newport Beach Makes Good On Threat -- DP
The city of Newport Beach is suing two businesses accused of operating unlicensed group homes in Newport Beach, seven months after the city declared a moratorium prohibiting their operation.

Newport Brewery Sues City Of Newport Beach -- DP
The Newport Beach Brewing Co. is suing the city of Newport Beach and the City Council over changes the city made earlier this year to its operating conditions.

Parents: District Shortchanges Kids -- DP
Nearly a dozen Newport-Mesa parents on Tuesday complained to school board members that the district’s special education administrators have habitually ignored the needs of their children.

Nobel Laureate To Address Effects Of Global Warming -- DP
Nobel laureate and professor Frank Sherwood Rowland will address the Friends of the Newport Coast annual meeting Tuesday.

OCC Set To Open Its $35 Million Library -- DP
Orange Coast College’s new library is set to open Jan. 3, officials said Tuesday. 

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 13, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Chriss Street Traveled Well On Bankrupt Trust -- OCR
Before he became OC treasurer, Chriss Street billed, and in some cases, double-billed a bankrupt trust for tens of thousands in expenses and travel

Martin Not Among Anaheim School Candidates -- OCR
Four candidates qualify for Anaheim Union election; controversial former board member decides against running.

Immigration Arrests Net Wide Array Of Suspects -- OCR
Suspected illegal immigrants have been detained in droves during past year, mostly after being picked up for misdemeanors or infractions.

Editorial: Carpool Conversion At A Crawl -- OCR
Switch to 'continuous access' still a ways off.

Santiago Fire Smolders In Forest -- OCR
No flames, but hot spots remain, officials say.

Less Development Recommended For Wetlands Area -- OCR
Coastal Commission staff is recommending the 170-home Parkside Estates proposal in Huntington Beach be slashed in half to protect what they said are wetlands and environmentally sensitive areas.

School Enrollment In Santa Ana Keeps Dropping -- OCR
County's largest district loses 7,300 students in 5 years, 1,146 students in a single year.

Minuteman, Border Activist To Debate On Campus -- OCR
Students and professors at California State University, Long Beach will protest Jim Gilchrist's views on immigration.

Orange Grove: Balloon Only Orange Left In Irvine -- OCR
City's original low-density concept buried under more and more development

Climate-Change Experiment Is A Likely Fire Survivor -- OCR
Plots set up in the hills were burned in the Santiago fire, but a scientist running the long-term experiment says they can be rebuilt.

Media Bus Teaches Government -- DP
C-SPAN’s Campaign 2008 Bus is on a mission to educate citizens across the country about nuts and bolts of news production.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 12, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Frank Mickadeit: Mike And Bernie - Two Of A Kind? -- OCR
Does federal pen have a buddy plan?

Editorial: Honor Troops Of Today And Past Conflicts -- DP
Some clichés, though trite and overused, are true. “Freedom is not free” is one of them.

Green Plans For Expanding Park Building -- OCR
Community center would meet second highest rating.

A Ship Without A Port -- OCR
The tall ship Privateer Lynx, formerly docked next to the nautical museum in Newport Beach, no longer has a harbor to call her own.

School Board To Discuss Educational Videos -- DP
Newport-Mesa school board members will discuss a plan Tuesday to provide web-based educational videos to students as part of a partnership with KOCE-TV.

Laguna Beach To Study Newport Dredging -- DP
City Council subcommittee looking into process of dump site off Crystal Cove.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 11, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

The Marine who beat 70 Iraqi roadside bombs -- OCR
Veterans Day means more after you've stared down death for a living.

Luxury 'mess hall' hosts troops -- DP
Dan Marcheano had a restaurant full of Marines to serve Saturday at lunch, so he prepared a dish familiar to anyone who had been in the service.

Armed with paintbrushes to fight graffiti -- OCR
Kids work on murals at their Lake Forest school in project to ward off graffiti.

Veteran fest today dedicates Stanton memorial -- OCR
City honors service members, veterans with new Katella Avenue park.

War stories -- DP
From the Greatest Generation to our own, these veterans have served in wars spanning back to World War II.

A ship without a port -- OCR
The tall ship Privateer Lynx, formerly docked next to the nautical museum in Newport Beach, no longer has a harbor to call her own.

O.C. writers feel the pinch -- OCR
The writers strike is having an effect on Orange County writers and could impact the economy.

Troy science team competes at Siemens -- OCR
The six students did not advance to the national finals in the nation's top science competition.

Public's help needed in murder, rape cases -- OCR
DNA evidence has linked a 24-year-old Stanton man to a murder in Anaheim and three rapes throughout Orange County. Authorities believe there may be more victims.

Cellphones to illuminate issue of homeless youths -- DP
No one can say how many cellphones will illuminate Tuesday outside the California Pizza Kitchen in Newport Beach, but the defining number for the evening will be 13

La Palma parade celebrates heroes -- OCR
The parade included more than 200 entries, live entertainment, food and children's activities.

Armed with paintbrushes to fight graffiti -- OCR
Kids work on murals at their Lake Forest school in project to ward off graffiti.

Different faiths to come together in harmony -- OCR
A Thanksgiving Interfaith Choir Festival is planned for Sunday in Irvine.

Investigative journalist to speak at UC Irvine -- DP
No history of investigative journalism in the last half-century would be complete without Seymour Hersh, the Pulitzer Prize-winner whose work has encompassed the My Lai massacre in Vietnam, the CIA’s involvement in a number of countries and, most recently, the Abu Ghraib scandal in Iraq.

Red County/OC Blog News Roundup -- November 10, 2007

Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Anaheim's housing debate may cool off -- LAT
Councilwoman's switch means the City Council could overturn the zoning decision that intensified a dispute over the future of the Resort District.

Contract doubted due to Carona -- DP
Orange County Fairgrounds officials seek a state review of a contract their board made this year with a company that allegedly paid Sheriff Michael Carona for he