OC NEWS

Irvine Girl Scouts will join a group of troops around the country in a new program offering cookies on demand.  Instead of order forms offering Thin Mints and Samoas, the girls will bring boxes along to soccer games and around the neighborhood to sell right away.  Girl Scout Cookies sales begin throughout January.  VIDEO STORY

Michael Smith and Bruce Howard Furst, of Laguna Beach, have been accused of duping a golfing buddy into using his house for collateral on a development deal.  The deal went south and the mortgage is now headed that way, too.  Smith played basketball professionally and has most recently been a commentator for the LA Clippers.  WHOLE STORY

Some local residents have been caught in scams through craigslist.com and other online sources when looking for inexpensive rental properties online.  The scammers often ask for money up-front, before they can send keys for homes.  Before sending any money, make sure you meet with the owner/manager face to face, see the home, sign an agreement and get the keys.  If the price seems way too low, it most likely is.  WHOLE STORY

After some controversy surrounding the use of Native American symbols to show athletic spirit, Fullerton High School has come to a compromise.  While “Willie Ugh,” a student dressed in Indian garb, will remain in retirement, plans for a new buffalo mascot are underway.  WHOLE STORY

WEEKEND PICKS

Homegrown author, T Jefferson Parker, to speak at Scape gallery in Corona Del Mar.  And there will be cake!  Advanced tickets required for Jan 26 event. MORE INFORMATION

Tricia Nixon Cox, President and Mrs. Nixon’s daughter will commemorate her father’s birthday SATURDAY with the laying of the Presidential Wreath from the White House and her husband, Edward F. Cox, newly elected Chairman of the Republican Party of New York will give the annual Nixon Legacy Lecture.  Admission to the library is free all day.  MORE INFORMATION

An original adaptation of
 Alice in Wonderland will be performed by the Musical Theater Academy of Orange County this weekend.  The play tells the story of Alice after she falls down a rabbit hole into a fantasy world populated by peculiar people and creatures and details the crazy adventures she has. The tale we all know is remixed with a different twist of imagination and songs. Four performances Friday through Sunday.  MORE INFORMATION