Today's top stories from behind the Orange Curtain:

Carona Was A Paranoid Egomaniac, Former Friend Tells FBI (OCR)
Former assistant sheriff told federal investigators that ex-sheriff thought money 'would be falling from trees' once he took office as O.C.'s top cop.

3 OC Community Colleges Make Top 100 (OCR)
Annual list ranks schools based on number of associate degrees they confer.

Plans For Tax Increase Vote Scuttled In Costa Mesa (OCR)
Officials won't let voters address fees for hotel guests and business licenses, despite economic worries.

Future of Great Park And E-mail Privacy May Go To Voters (OCR)
Council unanimously directs city attorney to draft two ballot measures for possible inclusion in the Nov. 4 election.

Who Is On UCI's Law School Team Lineup? (OCR)
Dean calls faculty his 'Dream team.'

Op-Ede: Spending Limit Key To Fiscal Health (OCR)
Now there's nothing to stop California legislators from overspending

Great Park Balloon On The Rise Again (LAT)
After being shut down for months, the free Irvine attraction will open Saturday in a 'Festival of Flight' celebration designed to offer a taste of the future.

OC Sheriff Rejects Use Of Security Detail (LAT)
Sandra Hutchens dissociates herself from the practices of her predecessor, Michael S. Carona, who used a security team and chauffeur. Her only protection will be a handgun.

The Political Landscape: City Officials Laud Road Ratings (DP)
Newport's roads have better quality and aesthetics than many county cities', recent study shows.

Coastal Commission To Fight Suit Over Signs Near Wetlands (OCR)
Preservationist groups said state panel erred in allowing Hearthside Homes to build signs near Bolsa Chica.