Business Soliciting ‘Great Park’ Supporters

Irvine entrepreneur Mitchell Goldstone drew national attention in February when he protested a Grammy Awards appearance by rapper Eminem in commercials urging tolerance. Now he is taking a stand on a local issue: Irvine’s proposal for a large urban park, rather than an international airport, at the former El Toro base.

Beginning today, voters wishing to sign a petition to place the “Great Park” initiative on the March ballot can do so at Goldstone’s 30 Minute Photos in Irvine. The store also will provide voter-registration forms and display material promoting the park plan. Goldstone said he wants to collect 10,000 signatures at his store alone. Supporters must gather at least 71,206 signatures to qualify the measure for the ballot.