Race debate on again

Uh oh, they’re talking about that grand prix again.

The Laguna Beach Rotary Club is shooting for a Sept. 20 or 21 date

for the next race.

Don’t let this one get by without notice.

The day at the races is a treat for many, but there may be changes

that could make it a treat for everyone. The 2002 race left many

merchants and residents angry about the inconvenience and loss of

business. Many said they didn’t have enough notice of the race to

prepare.

Bill Parrish, chair of the event’s steering committee, said he is

talking with merchants already and the City Council wants merchants

to show up with Rotary Club representatives at the council meeting if

they are in support of the race.

Preparation can make all the difference for merchants and

residents. Businesses should do their darndest to make the best of

the crowds. Whether on Forest Avenue or another location in Laguna,

the event is sure to bring in even more visitors than last year.

Businesses should consider opening early, having special sales and

sidewalk displays and perhaps even offering event-related

merchandise.

The Rotary Club heard plenty of concerns after the last race, but

now is the time to voice your worries about the planned event. Of

course, those of you who loved it can speak up, too. Don’t let those

with a gripe be the only ones heard.