A Bank Bash That Draws Big Interest

The event: Once Upon a Millennium Celebration, a benefit for the Laguna Art Museum. The New Year’s Eve bash took place at the Wells Fargo Bank in Laguna Beach.

Run on the bank: Party planners staged their gala at the bank because of its elegant antebellum-style architecture and because they wanted to send a message they didn’t give a hoot about Y2K fears.

More than 250 guests danced to 20th century tunes performed by the Richard Henn Band and enjoyed a gourmet dinner of filet mignon and grilled chicken prepared by Mark’s Restaurant.

At midnight, they wandered outdoors to watch the city’s fireworks display. “The people are dancing and the champagne is flowing,” said Janet Eggers, museum board president. “It seems like Y2K is going rather smoothly.”

Faces: Tyler Stallings, museum curator of exhibitions; Bonnie Rohrer, Wells Fargo branch manager, and husband Ron; Jim and Laura McQueen; Henry Eggers; and John and Barbara Bing.

Bottom line: The gala was expected to net $10,000 for the museum’s climate-control system and children’s education programs.

Whom to contact: For information about museum events call (949) 494-6531 or visit www.lagunaartmuseum.org.