Joining the CircusAfter its run at the...

Joining the Circus

After its run at the O.C. Fairgrounds, which begins in January, Cirque du Soleil won’t tumble back into town until next century. But the county found a place in the circus of the sun Monday as acrobats auditioned in Irvine. Above, scout Andre Vallerand tests the strength and balance of one hopeful.

* METRO, B1

Raw Capitalism

Shopping malls aren’t the only places crowded this time of year. O.C. bargain hunters eager to shop in the unfettered marketplace take their business to swap meets. Traffic at at least one of the events increases 25% during the holiday season.

* BUSINESS, D1

A Cut Above

The Times’ all-county prep football team includes Rancho Alamitos’ Leo Kosi, who led the county in rushing. Meanwhile, Vince Shinnefield anchored Mater Dei’s offensive line. And Coach Joe Wood built Aliso Niguel into a champion.

* PREP EXTRA, V1