BRIEFLY IN BUSINESS

New Irvine Co. executive counsel appointed

The Irvine Co. announced Thursday its appointment of former Walt Disney Co. executive counsel Louis Raymond as the head of its legal team.

Raymond, 48, was named vice president and general counsel of the developer’s retail division, replacing David Fields, who left the company for an executive position at an Alabama company.

The Laguna Niguel resident and real estate attorney has handled acquisitions, development and lease transactions and served as counsel for Disney during its Downtown Disney project in Anaheim. He’s also worked with The Disney Store, doing lease transactions around the world.

Classic Newport Beach car club created by Crevier

A Newport Beach commercial interior design firm announced last week it was chosen to create a new storeroom for Crevier Classic Car Company in Costa Mesa, a new car club created by Don Crevier.

Crevier is best known as a large-volume seller of BMWs, but is designing a new club with a “vintage clubhouse appeal for classic cars and their proprietors,” according to a release.

H. Hendy Associates plans on incorporating vintage art, a lounge area, pool tables and banquet seating for the club, which will be located near John Wayne Airport.

The club is scheduled to open sometime this year.

Costa Mesa businesses have opportunity to donate

On Jan. 29, the city of Costa Mesa will be sending care packages to the city’s adopted army regiment, and is calling for donors from both businesses and individuals.

Businesses who wish to donate to help the D Co., 2-25th Aviation Regiment will be named as such in the city’s Spring Community News brochure.

For more information, visit www.ci-costa-mesa.ca.us or call (714) 754-5688.

John Laing announces executive promotion

John Laing Homes announced last week the promotion of Patrick Higgins from vice president of sales to senior vice president of sales and marketing.

Higgins has been with the Newport Beach-based homebuilder since mid-2006.

In his new, expanded role, Higgins will help in the company’s expansion and will continue to manage home sale processes and training programs.

John Laing plans on expanding into new markets this year.

Newport company unveils new safety device

Newport Beach-based Universal Guardian Holdings Inc. announced last week its product Cobra Stunlight will be featured at the National Shooting Sports Foundations 2007 SHOT Show.

The Stunlight is a nonlethal high intensity flashlight that incorporates a red laser aimer and allows police and other users to shoot pepper spray up to 20 feet away.

Universal Guardian Holdings Inc. makes security products and systems to try and help thwart terrorist and security threats.