It's Official: Oct. 1 is Harry Lawrence's Day
By WILLIAM HAGLE

Photo by Roseanne Nitti Harry Lawrence

Some residents have so many admirers they earn a crisp salute from American Legion comrades. Some citizens are recognized by the Chamber of Commerce they helped found. Others receive a heart-felt citation from the town's mayor. Special cases attract a county or state politician to chime in with kudos for outstanding citizenry. More rarely, the nation's president sends a greeting.

For local hero Harry Lawrence, a well-traveled Laguna benefactor known as "Mr. Laguna," they all happened Tuesday, when the City Council declared Oct. 1, 2008, officially set aside for Lawrence and his 95th birthday.

Lawrence reciprocates the sentiments. He has said in numerous interviews that Laguna Beach is his favorite place of all time.

Lawrence stood straight and tall, with vibrancy belying his years, for multiple photos with those who provided him with certificates and plaques.

Chamber officials spoke several times on behalf of Lawrence's many accomplishments over 60 years, which include his longlived Asian antiquities shop, Warren Imports. Lawrence helped launch the Laguna Playhouse, reserving the land with a loan secured from his own pocket, kept the town's "Window to the Sea" at Main Beach open instead of obscured by development, and performed distinguished service for the U.S. during WWII.

Assemblyman Chuck Devore, U.S. Rep. John Campbell, and state Sen. Tom Harman all thanked "Mr. Laguna" by letter for the countless city improvements he accomplished. In Sacramento, Harman passed member resolution 928 in specific recognition.

Also from Sacramento, Governor Schwarzenegger sent a note wishing Lawrence "the best."

From further east in Washington D.C., another message was relayed to Lawrence via chamber president Jeff Redeker. "The President of the United States would like to wish you Happy Birthday. Warmest regards, President and Laura Bush."

After accolades and applause had quieted, Laguna Mayor Jane Egly led everyone, council members and public included, in a birthday song for Lawrence that was deepened by the baritones and tenors of many of his fellow American Legion veterans.

Afterwards, the veterans stood and saluted Lawrence in unison.