Actress Meredith MacRae, best known as "Billie Jo" in the 1960s television series "Petticoat Junction," died Friday from brain cancer at her Manhattan Beach home. She was 59 years old. MacRae is survived by her husband Phil Neal, daughter Allison Mullavey from a previous marriage, her mother, actress-comedian Sheila MacRae, and brothers Bruce and Gordon.
The Los Angeles County Children's Court, which handles all cases of child abuse and neglect in the county, is embarking upon a new project to make books available for children. The idea is to have books for children and their caretakers to read while waiting for their cases, and then to take a book home with them when their cases are concluded. The court needs books that are in good condition, both in English and Spanish, for children of all ages. The books may be dropped off in care of councilmember Joyce Fahey, a part-time children's court judge, at the Manhattan Beach City Manager's office at the Manhattan Beach City Hall, 1400 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach.
Jazz guitarist Hideaki Tokunaga, who went from jamming in the subways of New York City to recording CD's that have been distributed worldwide, concludes the Spring 2000 Classical Sands concert series tonight beginning at 7 p.m. at Barnabey's Hotel. Tickets are $40, dinner included. (310) 802-5408.
Raging Sun, a group that combines west Coast swing and Chicago-style blues, plays Polliwog Park, Sunday July 23 at 5 p.m. as part of the Concerts in the Park series. Raging Sun earned the title Southern California's Best Live Blues Band during the recent Blues War 2000 competition. The concert, like the others that follow every Sunday through Sept. 3, are free.
The Manhattan Beach Police Department will host a pancake breakfast Saturday July 29 from 9-11 a.m. at Manhattan Heights Park, 1600 Manhattan Beach Boulevard, in recognition of the 20th Anniversary of Neighborhood Watch in Manhattan Beach. All current and former Neighborhood Watch block captains are invited to enjoy the food, awards and entertainment. Please RSVP to Neighborhood Watch at 802-5183.
The annual Dahlia show returns to the Manhattan Village Mall July 29-30. Hundreds of spectacular blooms will be on display, with Southern California growers on hand to answer all of your questions. The flowers will be given away to the public at the show's conclusion on Sunday. For more information, call 546-5556.
This 50-year celebration of Mira Costa High School includes an all-class reunion on the campus from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Organizers anticipate much kicking and snorting from the more than 7,000 Mustangs expected to enjoy this free event. There will be food, music, old friends and activities for the entire family. Call (310) 318-7337, ext. 5050 for more information. ER