Police Files 

Woman reportedly spits on and assaults man with metal water bottle, faces felony charge

On Friday, May 18 at 5:16 p.m., at Thalia Street and South Coast Highway, an unexpected commotion was suddenly put into motion that did not end well.

According to reports, a female pedestrian spat on the passenger of a car passing by, as the vehicle was driving westbound on Thalia Street at South Coast Highway.

None too pleased, the man exited the vehicle, and confronted the woman who reportedly spat on him. An argument ensued between the two strangers that turned physical.

According to witness reports, the man was attacked by the woman with a metal water bottle, and struck multiple times. He sustained multiple lacerations and was bleeding from his eye, according to police logs.

The incident, dubbed as “road rage” in the logs, landed the suspected attacker behind bars.

Courtesy of LBPD

Jacqueline Victoria Knowles

Jacqueline Victoria Knowles, 24, of Anaheim, was booked on a felony charge for assault with a deadly weapon (not a firearm) and a misdemeanor battery charge.

According to LBPD Spokesperson Jordan Villwock, Emergency Operations Coordinator, “She was not arrested for any under the influence charges.”

Bail was set at $25,000.

Snake season is here, multiple rattlesnakes 

reported, so beware and prepare

Don’t let rattlers rattle outdoor fun, snake season is here, just beware and prepare. In Laguna Beach, residents have reported multiple rattlesnake sightings over the last few days to LBPD.

On Friday, May 18 at 2:26 p.m., at the 0 Block of Castle Rock Road, LBPD received a report that a rattlesnake was found in the area. And then on Saturday, May 19 at 9:04 a.m., at the 1500 Block of Tahiti Avenue, LBPD received a call about a large rattlesnake in the bushes.

(A third call came in on Thursday, May 17 at 10:57 a.m., at the 3100 Block of Via Buena Vista. Luckily, that one was a false sighting. What the resident thought was a baby snake found in their garage, turned out to be an old snake toy.)

But there is reason for caution. Snake season is here, and according to The California Poison Control System (CPCS), there has been a spike in rattlesnake bites with 20 attacks reported since April 1 statewide. 

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Courtesy of Laguna Canyon Foundation

Rattlesnake season is here, make sure to follow tips and be smart when outdoors, especially with children and pets

Hallie Jones, Executive Director of Laguna Canyon Foundation, said there are two species of rattlesnakes in the Laguna Beach area, the Western Diamondback and Red Diamondback. 

“While rattlesnakes aren’t aggressive, they will protect themselves if they’re frightened or provoked. If you see one on the trails, back up until the snake is out of sight. Give it five to ten minutes to move off the trail. If the snake doesn’t move, you can call parks staff and they will come relocate it,” Jones said. 

Jones advised to call animal control if you have a snake in your yard, and they will come relocate it too. 

“Don’t ever try to move a snake yourself, or throw things at it. They’re faster than you’ll ever be, and they deserve our respect and protection,” said Jones.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife said on its website, “Though uncommon, rattlesnake bites do occur, so have a plan in place for responding to any situation. Carry a cell phone, hike with a companion who can assist in an emergency and make sure that family or friends know where you are going and when you will be checking in.”

The department also gave important tips in case the event of a bite:

Do – Stay calm and act quickly, remove watches, rings, etc. that may constrict swelling,and transport the victim to the nearest hospital.

Don’t – Do not apply a tourniquet, pack the bite area in ice, cut the wound, try to suck out the venom, and don’t let the victim drink alcohol.

As for furry friends, the Friends of Laguna Beach Dog park website advises parents/owners not to panic. 

“If your dog is bitten by a rattlesnake, call 911 and get your dog to a veterinary emergency clinic right away. Even if your dog has been vaccinated against rattlesnake venom, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately.”

“Non-venomous snake bites can also lead to serious infections and treatment may be needed so let the Vet determine necessary treatment.” 

Treatment includes Antivenin, intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and pain medication. Lucky, most local veterinarian carry Antivenin, including Canyon Animal Hospital, Laguna Beach Animal Hospital, Aliso Beach Animal Hospital, and Laguna Beach Veterinary Medical Center.

Preventive measures include giving your pet a rattlesnake vaccine, which will help reduce the effects of venom. Contact your veterinarian for more information.

And in case you haven’t experienced a rattlesnake firsthand yet, click here to hear what they sound like, courtesy of the California Poison Control Center.

“Crimes and Misdemeanors”: two perps get nailed and jailed with a slew of misdemeanors and a felony too 

On Sunday, May 20 at 6:26 a.m., officers responded to an attempted vehicle burglary call at the 800 Block of Acapulco Street.

The caller reported that a man in a black Mercedes C300, with blacked out windows and paper license plates, parked near his home, was tampering with his vehicle.

According to his reports, the man, dressed in all black, including a cap, got out of the Mercedes, walked over to his ride, and started pulling on the door handle, only to find out it was locked. 

The caller provided a description of the suspect, his vehicle, and the direction of travel as they sped away. 

“Anyone familiar with the area knows there are several paths of ingress and egress. Armed with a thorough description of the vehicle, LBPD officers converged on the area,” said an LBPD Spokesperson. “LBPD saw a vehicle matching the description traveling westbound down Bluebird Canyon Drive.” 

Officers located the vehicle shortly thereafter at 6:34 a.m. (less than ten minutes after the original call was received) at Bluebird Canyon Drive and Catalina Street. From there, the vehicle turned onto the 1500 block of Catalina Street and then Palmer Street. 

A turn on the dead end street ended up being a dead end for the suspects. Immediately surrounded by LBPD officers, Dennis Michael Busch, 38, of Laguna Woods, and Brent Jay McArthur, 31, of Newport Beach, were detained.

Courtesy of LBPD

Dennis Michael Busch and Brent Jay McArthur

“Inside the Mercedes, officers located drugs, including traces of heroin, drug paraphernalia, burglary tools and other property that officers suspected might be stolen,” said LBPD Spokesperson Jordan Villwock, Emergency Operations Coordinator.

Further investigation revealed the driver Busch was on probation for possession of a stolen vehicle and drug charges.  

McArthur was arrested for conspiracy, possession of burglary tools, vehicle tampering, and several drug related charges. Busch was arrested for conspiracy and several drug related charges. 

After being positively identified, both subjects were arrested and later transported to Orange County Jail.

According to LBPD, when stopped, the suspect told officers they were “heading to a local restaurant for breakfast”.

“As luck would have it, an LBPD detective happened to notice the same black Mercedes driving inbound from Laguna Canyon Road about an hour earlier,” said an LBPD Spoksperson. “For someone looking to get breakfast, they apparently decided to take the lengthy, illogical, scenic route.”

Bail was set at $25,000 for both suspects.

Run with a Cop and support Special Olympics

Come Run with a Cop! On Thursday, May 31, the Laguna Beach Police Department along with the Fire and Marine Safety Departments will be participating in the Special Olympics Torch Run to raise money for this great organization. 

Submitted photo

How often do you get to run with a cop?

“We run from City Hall to Crystal Cove where we hand the torch off to Newport Beach PD. The run is approximately 5.4 miles and we all run as a group, about a 9 1/2 minute mile,” says Jordan Villwock, Emergency Operations Coordinator. 

“The runners depart from Laguna Beach PD at 7:25 a.m. so if you are interested in joining us, please do so. If running isn’t your thing but you would like to donate to the Special Olympics you can do so with the link below. 

“To register to run with us – Step 1 – Click on this link: http://fundraising.sosc.org/site/TR?fr_id=1292&pg=entry. Step 2 – Click on “Join a Team”. Step 3 – Select Laguna Beach PD by hitting drop down menu in Important: Agency/Department. Then click Search for a Team, and the click Join. Any questions, send us a message!”

Bruce Hopping, guru of watersports, died this last week: RIP

Story and photo by SCOTT BRASHIER

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Bruce Hopping walking on the beach he loved

Bruce Hopping, Founder of the Kalos Kagathos Foundation, with the goal of connecting kids with surfing as well as the culture in other countries, passed away this last week. 

He believed that unlike many other sports such as football, watersports were good for the body.

Bruce was so kind in so many ways to so many kids. He was in his 96th year when I captured this image on March 6, 2016. Bruce was becoming less consistent on his daily beach runs (amazing at any age). 

I felt that this might be the last time that we would cross paths on the beach with me having a camera in my hand. Sadly, it was. 

RIP Bruce Hopping. You were a gift and an inspiration to so many.

Guest Column

Should wilderness parks be closed to visitors?

By Hallie Jones, Executive Director, Laguna Canyon Foundation

If you’ve spent time hiking or biking around Laguna over the past few years, you’ve probably noticed some change. The same congestion that hits our downtown in the summer months has spread to our trails. Our pristine wilderness is no longer a secret – in fact, it’s become a destination for locals and visitors from all over. 

Our estimates show that visitorship to our wilderness parks has skyrocketed, with preliminary data showing at least 500,000 annual visitors to Laguna Canyon. That’s half a million people out on 11,000 acres each year. In many ways, that’s a good thing. When people get outside, they get connected to the wilderness. They learn to love it. And after all, we protect the things we love. So in theory, getting people outside, on our trails, means that we have more people who care about the land, and more people who will fight to preserve it. 

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Photo from LCF website

Restoration of habitat is an ongoing challenge

Unfortunately, what we’ve seen recently is that reality doesn’t match up with that theory. We’ve got more people on the land, but more of those people are treating our parks like giant outdoor playgrounds instead of the imperiled habitat that it is. We have people hiking and riding outside of the authorized trail system. People littering and bringing their dogs into parts of the park that are reserved for wildlife. Distracted hikers with earphones on. We also have more user conflicts than ever, including a recent collision between a hiker and a mountain biker that left the hiker unconscious while the biker left the scene. 

We all bear some responsibility. Who among us hasn’t been tempted to take a shortcut or check out some beautiful rock formation? I know I have. But I also know that the pressure on our coastal canyons has increased beyond its capacity. The negligible impacts of behavior thirty years ago, when there were just a handful of hikers and bikers who explored the park, can’t even compare to the impacts of 500,000 visitors. Which means that we all need to change the way we think about our wilderness, interact with our wilderness, and promote what we’re doing on Instagram and Facebook. 

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Hikers & bikers are vastly increasing in numbers (please note dogs are not allowed on most trails)

If we don’t, we run the risk of losing these parks forever. We run the risk of the wildlife agencies and land managers deciding that the habitat is simply too damaged, and the parks need to close to visitors. After all, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park were created for habitat value, not for recreation. In some cases, this land was set aside specifically as mitigation for development elsewhere. Which means its primary purpose is as habitat for our endangered plants and animals. My right to hike or trail run is secondary to this goal. 

There are other options out there. We could move to a permit system, where only a certain number of visitors are allowed into the parks each day. We could have specific open days, and close some days. We could have one-directional trails. Increased enforcement could include expulsions from the park. Or, we could close the park to half of our users, and only allow foot traffic (no mountain bikes at all). 

I’ve got a better solution. It’s simple, but it involves every single person who uses our parks. How about we all just start behaving a little better? How about we take responsibility for our parks and remind visitors not to dump trash? How about we stop posting unauthorized trails on Instagram and Strava? And above all, how about we work to eliminate user conflicts by slowing down, stepping aside and saying hello?

I certainly don’t want to see our parks closed to people. After all, I use the parks too. Being outside is my solace, my favorite way to spend a morning, and, of course, my professional mission. 

But if we can’t all work together to keep this very special canyon preserved, that might be the only way to make sure it’s still beautiful for generations to come.

There’s a new kid (or two) in town as the goat herd begins to munch its way across our dry hillsides

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Photo by Scott Brashier

I kid you not, these animals prevent wildfires better than Smokey the Bear

Actually, these frisky kids were pictured last year, but in our Friday edition we’ll have an update on the latest news about the herd – as well as the goat herder Ocatillio and his amazing dog, Candu – and new photos, too. 

According to the City of Laguna, the goats will be in town until the fall.

Reflecting on Laguna’s newest murals

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Photo by @therepublicofcalifornia (Instagram)

Reflecting on one half of the new mural by Okuda San Miguel, on the side (seen here) and front of the Art-A-Fair building at 777 Laguna Canyon Rd. The project was funded by The Laguna Beach Company and curated by Torrey Cook of Artists Republic.

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Photo by @therepublicofcalifornia (Instagram)

And this one…the newest mural in The Hive (formerly the Festival Center) by Faith XLVII. Stay tuned for a future feature from Suzie Harrison on this!

Rowan’s Reports…a youthful perspective on people and places in the news

Rowan Van Dender (11) loves to write and issues a monthly newsletter about Brooks Street, where she lives. Now she’s also a columnist for Stu News! Readers can read and subscribe to her newsletter at www.beautifulbrooksstreet.com.

Rowan Van Dender

Walking into a world of wet dogs

Walking into a world of wet dogs and dog hair may not seem to be the perfect workplace everyday, but for Angela Lavelle it’s just part of the routine. Angela works at Dog Tub, an awesome place to scrub off the messy part of your dog. Dog Tub all started with the thought of having a business in beautiful Laguna. After brainstorming for a while, the idea for a self-wash place for dogs caught on. 

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Submitted photo

Love is bathing your dog

One reason she feels so compelled to do something like this is the thought of people bonding with their pets. With all the great foods that she has for dogs, she also says that it is a great way to inform people about the importance of proper nutrition such as raw or fresh foods and supplements for dogs. And on top of all that, it is a great excuse to wash her own hairy monster. 

Although the stressful barking of dogs may not be appealing to some, she finds it a way for dogs to express their feelings, “Like music to my ears!” she said.

With My Own Two Hands: A very special story

This month I have something really special for you to read. 

During my search for stories, I came across a great friend of mine, Jack Pugh. Jack and his mom work with With My Own Two Hands (www.withmyown2hands.org), a Laguna Beach-based nonprofit foundation that provides water and agriculture solutions that fund education for kids in Kenya. My favorite part is that they sell the extra water and crops to fund education for schools! 

Jack is an ambassador for this organization so I thought it would be great to talk to him. Jack and I talked for a while about his friends in the orphanages that he visited in Kenya. He responded with his eyes getting big, which gave me the impression that he has tons of friends from Kenya! 

He told me how he had met a boy named Lomic, who was in his eyes, the best soccer player he had ever seen! It was stories like this that made him so happy. I asked him if he ever thought about fundraising for Africa before With My Own Two Hands. He answered with a strong no,which surprised me since he’s so good at it. He concluded that now that he is, he thinks it’s a great idea! 

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Submitted photo

Jack with his Kenyan friends

Jack told me how much he loves helping other people in need and that he is going to keep on helping in the future. He told me a sad story about three little kids. Their names were Dennis, Rose, and Morgen. Dennis was three, Rose was 18 months and Morgen was only three weeks. They lived in a small tin shack in Kenya with their mother. One unfortunate day their mother locked them inside that tin house with no food or water.

Little Dennis had to take care of his sisters for a week until they were finally rescued. Now, five years later, the three siblings are running around Saint Ann’s orphanage as happy and safe as can be! Even though I have never seen the things Jack has seen, I felt so bad for those kids and still do. 

I wondered if Jack keeps the heartbreak that these kids have gone through. He said yes, but he always remembers the loads of hope that he had experienced as well. 

Join With My Own Two Hands Foundation for their fifth annual red carpet documentary screening on Sunday, July 15 at The Port Theatre in Corona del Mar. For tickets and more information, click here.

Guests at the Chhahari 10-year anniversary fundraiser come through for the children at Kathmandu shelter

By DIANNE RUSSELL

Photos by Hayden Kessenich

The layer of grey mist didn’t put a damper on the 10-year anniversary fundraiser for Chhahari, a nonprofit organization that shelters at-risk children in Kathmandu. Even as jazz singer Victoria McGinnis sang “Blue Skies” to invoke the sun, the 75 plus guests chatted in the beautiful gardens of Tom and Ann Shea, listened to McGinnis (also a Chhahari board member) and keyboardist Rusty Gillette’s renditions of classic songs, and dined on the Spanish themed fare of Chef David Pratt of Brick Restaurant in San Clemente. 

This was a Sunday in which there were several charity events in Laguna, but this group came out in full force – and with open wallets – to support Chhahari (“shelter” in Nepalese), which houses 19 children, and supports five in the village of Kathmandu.

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Chris Casey, founder of Chhahari

A decade ago, Laguna Beach resident Chris Casey created her nonprofit to benefit the orphaned, neglected, and abandoned children she had seen while on a trek in Nepal in 2007. She solicited the help of LB Attorney Tom Davis to set it up, and from that moment on, all proceeds raised have gone to the support of Chhahari, a detail Casey, a former banker, scrupulously oversees.

With a goal of raising the annual budget for support of the children, Casey says,  “We are the fundraisers, and the money goes to Chhahari to spend.” And she puts all her banking expertise into this project, staying from three to five months each year in a room she has in Kathmandu, to assure that every penny is used properly.

Responding to my question about how they find the children, Casey says, “These are children whose parents are deceased, or have drug or mental problems, or too many children. They wouldn’t thrive in the village, but we assure that the children thrive.”

The children attend school at Sagarmatha Educational Academy, spending long days studying and learning the arts, and live as a large, loving family at Chhahari. 

As part of the vision for this new generation, Chhahari also assists the children in career and further educational planning. “Three of the boys are now on track to come here to university,” Casey says. 

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Board Member Tom Davis (on left) greets Nick Ross at the buffet table

Over the years, many children have thrived and gone on. “They are from ages five to 20 years, and 40 have come and gone since Chhahari was founded.”

I was shocked at the relatively small amount it takes to support all these children. 

Casey says, “Forty thousand dollars takes care of the cost of living for all of them for a year, including housing, food, education, care, transportation, clothes, and medical and dental needs.” 

I was fortunate to sit next to Chhahari’s first doctor, Dr. David Monahan, and his wife, Sally, who were there in 2010, 2011, and 2012. 

Dr. Monahan recalls, “Initially, I was there to look at the orphanage, and it morphed into a clinic downtown, where medical students from Brisbane and Singapore assisted.”

As the program begins, photographer Hayden Kessenich recounts his trips to Nepal, and how much his experience at Chharhari positively affected his life. The newest board member, Lexie Ross, a Stanford graduate with aspirations of being a doctor, tells of her trip to teach at Chhahari. During her second trip this past summer, she designed a course in first aid that she taught to the students.

Taking the microphone, Casey acknowledges Chhahari “firsts,” noting that, “It’s not just one person, it’s a huge group effort.”  

Some of the first supporters and volunteers include: First donor: Laura Parker; first board member: Peggy Lang; first public relations person: Barbara McMurray (who also put the wonderful fundraiser together); first attorney, as noted above: Tom Davis.

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The furious bidding begins

Casey went on to thank all the board members: Chairman, Tom Davis, Secretary and Treasurer, Tamara Campbell, Vice-President, Ingrid Hoffmeister, Lexie Ross, Jerry Hoffmeister, Ann Shea, Barbara McMurray, Laura Parker, Bella Hann, Victoria McGinnis, and Tori Johnson.

Earlier, when I asked how much they usually raise at these events, Casey says, “Sometimes $15,000 or $20,000, sometimes $40,000.”

I’m hoping this 10-year fundraiser tops all the others.

Before opening the bidding, Casey emphasizes that there are no administrative costs, and again that 100 percent of proceeds go directly to Chhahari.

Although the total figure hasn’t been tallied as yet, many guests (and board members) rose to the occasion once the bidding started. 

A short list of some of the items funded: Two dinners and two plates from the buffet from Brick Restaurant went for $300. Then the bidding started for funding items for the shelter: $7,500 (annual tuition for all older kids at Chhahari), $1,800 (rice for one year for everyone) – there were two bids on this one, so two years of rice for everyone – $1,400 (boxed lunches for everyone for a year), $1,000 (milk for everyone for a year) and many large ticket items went as well.

Whether it be grey skies or blue didn’t seem to matter to these partygoers. They were in high spirits and in the spirit of giving, and Chhahari couldn’t be a better recipient of their support. 

Casey and her vision that, “Every child has potential and deserves a chance,” is embodied in this endeavor. And it’s certainly one to be commended.

Amber waves of sunset: Picture of the Day

Photos by Scott Brashier

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Our sunsets come in all colors and shapes

The 3 Clubs Barefoot Canyon Classic at The Ranch finds its sweet spot; $42,000 goes to SchoolPower

Monday, May 7, marked the third annual 3 Clubs Barefoot Canyon Classic at The Ranch at Laguna Beach, benefiting SchoolPower. This festive event found its sweet spot in the hearts of golfers and non-golfers alike. Generously underwritten by The Ranch at Laguna Beach and Hobie, 100 percent of the $42,000 raised will benefit the local Laguna Beach schools through SchoolPower.

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Photo by Blue Sky’s Studio

Participants at The 3 Clubs Barefoot Canyon Classic

Participants report that the jovial buzz of 72 players was invigorating and set the positive vibe for the rest of the day. The barefoot foursomes dispersed throughout the course and the friendly competition began. The Ranch always provides a dramatic backdrop and Mother Nature didn’t disappoint, with sunny blue skies and multiple deer sauntering throughout the course. Unlike the typical hushed environment of a golf tournament, both music and laughter could be heard continuously throughout the course.

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Photo by Blue Sky’s Studio

(L-R) Kristin Bunn, Allison Motherway, Hilary Gilles and Krista Shaw

As in past years, there were some interesting shots to be made...amongst the shenanigans were a pair of oven mitts at the tee box as a mandatory accessory for each golfer on their first shot; on another hole a baseball bat was the tee shot apparatus; on yet another hole a hockey stick surprised the golfers on the perimeter of the green to replace their putters. 

For guests who preferred eating to golfing, there was fun to be had at the event as well. Following the tournament, diners and golfers gathered on the patio for a spirited cocktail reception, followed by a tasty California cuisine buffet where the enthusiasm continued. Mark Christy took to the podium and sparked the attendees’ kinship and gratitude with a reminder of how special our Laguna Beach community is with our unique and incredible local events including Hospitality Night, the Patriots Day Parade and now the 3 Clubs Barefoot Canyon Classic. 

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Photo by Blue Sky’s Studio

(L-R) Rich Knowland, Chris Yelich, Brett Hillyard and George Basye

Christy’s generous and kind spirit created a “pay it forward” atmosphere when he led the live auction. Guests seemed to feed off of his energy as he tripled and quadrupled auction offerings. Chris Yelich, who seemed to answer the call to bid on every item, explained what inspired him to give so generously even though he does not have a child in the district: “I live in Laguna and it’s important to me to support our schools, and I am always supportive of Mark and Leticia Christy for their enormous generosity to our entire community.” 

Attendees say that everyone left feeling like a winner just by choosing to be a part of the event. As Christy pointed out, “the games, the laughs, the unfettered frivolity… priceless!” 

But, the true winners of the event are the local children.

Tickets on sale now for the LBHS spring production, The Diary of Anne Frank

The LBHS spectacular spring play, The Diary of Anne Frank, will be performed this weekend at Thurston Middle School’s Black Box theatre. 

From Anne Frank website

Performances are this Friday, May 25 at 3:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 26 at 7 p.m.; and Sunday, May 27 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are available online here and also may be purchased at the door. 

Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults.

Don’t miss your opportunity to see this important and engaging play!

Where’s Maggi – the answers!

This new mural has some admirers. Maggi asked where is it, and several readers responded with compliments.

The first correct response came from Kathy Bienvenu (so she gets bragging rights!). Thanks also to Celine Macmillan, Kathryn Delp Dew, John Walker, Beth Johnsen, Judy Josephson, Katy Moss, and Kimberly Klein for knowing where it was.

Maggi will have another photo mystery coming up on Friday. 

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Mural located at The Hive (formerly the Festival Center) in Laguna Canyon 

Walkathon on June 9 for Glennwood House – grab your sneakers and join in

Glennwood likes to be on the move! The residents are gearing up for again for their annual walkathon on Saturday, June 9. It’s a fundraiser and also a way to celebrate healthy living and to show appreciation to the community of Laguna Beach for being supportive of this independent home for young people with disabilities.

The annual walkathon raises money for the nonprofit center’s health and fitness programs. Donations are welcomed and fully tax deductible. To donate or sponsor a resident, please visit https://glennwoodhousingfoundation.ticketspice.com/glennwood-walkathon

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Submitted photo

Last year, Glennwood House of Laguna Beach residents were seen walking through Heisler Park, the village, and the farmers’ market enthusiastically greeting Laguna residents, local shop owners, and market vendors on their annual walkathon

Glennwood loves doing this walk, and hopes there will be a good turnout of people joining them. Participants are welcome to join in at 9 a.m. on June 9, leaving from Heisler Park and progressing through the village shops, and on to the finish at the Farmers’ Market.  

Glennwood House provides supportive living for persons with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Thanks to the support of our community, residents are actively involved and participating in service projects throughout the local area and say that this gives them the opportunity to be active and to give back. It’s so important to their goal of gaining self confidence and living a fulfilling and inclusive life, not only at Glennwood, but in their school and work environments as well. 

Look for Glennwood residents sporting their “G-Force - Glennwood For Good” blue T-Shirts around town as they support charitable causes and help out at community events.

For more information about Glennwood Housing Foundation, visit www.glennwoodhousing.org.

Fraud trends and financial elder abuse featured at Council on Aging’s Sr Protection Program on May 31 

Laguna Beach Seniors and the Council on Aging – Southern California (COASC) announce that Kelli J. Morris, JD, LLM, Director of the Senior Protection Program (SPP) and Financial Abuse Specialist Team (FAST), will be the featured speaker for Fraud Trends + Financial Elder Abuse on Thursda7, May 31 from 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Susi Q Senior Center. 

Approximately one in 10 Americans, age 60 and older, has experienced some form of elder abuse, with financial elder abuse being one of the fastest growing crimes and least reported form of abuse in America.

The National Center on Elder Abuse states, “Unfortunately, we simply do not know for certain how many people are suffering from elder abuse and neglect. Signs of elder abuse may be missed by professionals working with older Americans because of lack of awareness and adequate training on detecting abuse. The elderly may be reluctant to report abuse themselves because of fear of retaliation, lack of physical and/or cognitive ability to report, or because they do not want to get the abuser in trouble.”

COASC’s Senior Protection Program (SPP) provides education and empowerment to help seniors recognize and guard themselves against financial exploitation. 

Susi Q located at 380 Third St. For more information, go to www.thesusiq.org or call (949) 464-6645.

Succulent success at Glennwood House as LOCA helps residents create singular plant masterpieces

LOCA Arts Education, Laguna’s own nonprofit coalition of arts educators and professional artists, had a succulently successful day last week at Glennwood House, thanks to special guest Ruben Flores. 

Flores, the owner of Laguna Nursery, showed up with several pallets of succulents, and proceeded to teach the residents there the fine art of planting and caring for cactus and other drought-tolerant plants. In the end, each of the Glennwood residents had created succulent masterpieces, each individualized and ready for its new owner’s room. 

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Submitted photo

Ruben Flores with a happy resident

“We asked Ruben to lead a class for the Glennwood residents because Ruben is one of the best teachers in Laguna and he shows up with a lot of enthusiasm,” said LOCA President Carla Meberg. “He knows how to teach, so it’s easy for everyone to learn.”

While Ruben operates a large landscape architecture company in addition to the retail shop, Laguna Nursery, he serves on several local boards and beautification-related committees, and leads monthly garden walking tours 

LOCA conducts weekly art workshops at Glennwood House, a residence for special needs adults in Laguna Beach. 

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Submitted photo

New cactus lover!

LOCA instructors provide the residents with a variety of creative art projects and experiences. They have the opportunity to experiment with a variety of mediums – from printmaking to ceramics. In addition to a variety of fine art projects, LOCA hosts “Art of Movement,” a dance program, as well as drama workshops that improve coordination and encourage self confidence in self-expression and social skills. 

LOCA is also instrumental in connecting Glennwood residents to the greater community by providing art related field trips and opportunities for exhibiting their work.

--Diane Armitage

Treasures on a rainy day

Photo by Bret Davis

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Beach glass treasures collected by Holland Davis, six years old, on a rainy Sunday at Victoria Beach

The Barefoot Movement plays at Laguna Beach Live! Bluegrass and BBQ at LCAD on Sunday,June 10 

Bluegrass music fans, BBQ lovers, and libation aficionados will enjoy a delightful afternoon of incredible bluegrass music and delicious BBQ at Laguna College of Art & Design (LCAD) on Sunday, June 10. 

Entertaining music lovers will be The Barefoot Movement, named «Band of the Year» by the International Bluegrass Music Association in 2014. They performed for Laguna Beach Live! in a sold out concert at The Ranch in 2014.

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The Barefoot Movement (L-R): Alex Conerly, Noah Wall, Tommy Norris, Katie Blomarz

This year Laguna Beach Live! has partnered with several local companies to bring attendees an even more hometown experience: Laguna Beach Beer Company, established in 2014 by co-founders and lifelong Laguna Beach residents Brent Reynard and Mike Lombardo, will be serving Second Reef (Blonde Ale) and Main Tower  (Pilsner). 

Purple Corduroy, a California culture inspired wine company produced by the three Bromigos (Dr. Riptide, SLi Dawg and Brandavi), with their Laguna Beach-to-Lodi connection, will be offering Blonde Siren (Sauvignon Blanc) and Rose Siren (Rose). 

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Laguna College of Art & Design

Gnarly “Q” will be grilling it up, offering freshly smoked choices of Pulled Pork, Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs, or Tri Tip (all plates include baked beans, baked corn mash and Hawaiian style coleslaw). 

Grounds open at 4 p.m. for BBQ and bar. The concert is from 5 - 7 p.m. 

Concert only tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at door. BBQ and beverages will be sold separately. VIP tickets are $100 and include reserved table seat, concert, and BBQ.

To purchase tickets, go to www.lagunabeachlive.org or call (949) 715-9713.

LCAD is located at 2222 Laguna Canyon Rd.

Conservation film “Gwala Rising in the Bwanabwana Islands” wins Sylvia Earle Ocean Conservation Award 

The MY HERO Project is proud to announce “Gwala Rising in the Bwanabwana Islands,” a film directed by Stephani Gordon for Conservation International, is the winner of the 2018 Sylvia Earle Ocean Conservation Award, in the MY HERO International Film Festival. 

The film shows the efforts of the people of Anagusa, an island of Papua New Guinea, who honor the tradition of gwala. When gwala is observed, a declining reef is temporarily closed to fishermen to allow the ecosystem time to recover from global warming, population growth and overfishing. By protecting an individual reef, the fish population flourishes, spilling over into the areas where fishing is allowed. The result is healthier ecosystem and more food and prosperity for the islanders. 

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The film is aimed at protecting the ecosystem 

The Sylvia Earle Ocean Conservation Award is presented each year to a filmmaker who calls attention to heroes working for the benefit of the world’s oceans. This year’s honoree was selected by Meghan and Barbara MacGillivray from the MacGillivray-Freeman One World One Ocean Campaign.

“Our Choice for the winner is “Gwala Rising” by Stephani Gordon,” says Meghan Macgillivray. “Not only does it promote sustainability within a culture, as part of their heritage, but it resonates very much with one of our films, “Journey to the South Pacific” and the notion of “Sasi” or closing off fishing seasons, and then reopening them – allowing the fish population to come back.”

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Whitney Winefordner will perform an original song, My Blue Heart, at Hero Fest

One World One Ocean is a global education campaign to restore and protect the world’s oceans, which supply the bulk of protein and oxygen for the planet. The organization sponsors projects that promote ocean conservation (www.oneworldoneocean.com).

The award will be presented at the 2018 Hero Fest in Laguna Beach. The annual celebration honors local and global heroes with an evening of Music, Art, and Short Films. One highlight will be Laguna Beach High School student Whitney Winefordner, who will perform an original song, MY BLUE HEART, which she co-wrote with Janet Bartucciotto and Emily Morris about their hero Sylvia Earle, the namesake of the conservation award.

Two Laguna locals unite to help women in the US and around the globe

Suzy Elghanayan and Sarah Vanderveen first came together as co-room moms for their sons’ third grade class at El Morro Elementary. More than a decade later, their boys are college sophomores and Suzy and Sarah’s endeavors together have multiplied. 

On Sunday, September 16 at The Ranch at Laguna Beach, they and their husbands will join forces with a committee of twenty-six others to raise awareness and much needed funds for the Tahirih Justice Center by hosting its Inaugural Gala in Orange County. 

The Tahirih Justice Center is a national, nonprofit organization that protects courageous immigrant women and girls who refuse to be victims of violence by elevating their voices in communities, courts, and Congress. Committed to promoting the equality of women and men, Tahirih works to create a world where all women and girls can live in safety and with dignity. 

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(L-R) Sarah Vanderveen, Suzy Elghanayan and Tahirih Major Gifts Officer Carey Eisenberg at Lugano Diamonds

Lugano Diamonds, the first sponsor to sign on for Tahirih’s Inaugural Gala in Orange County, has created a jewel-encrusted dove that will represent man and woman – two wings of the bird of mankind which, until equal in strength, will not soar to the greatest of heights. This original Tahirih-inspired creation will be auctioned off at the Gala.

Since 1997, Tahirih has answered more than 25,000 pleas for help from women and girls seeking protection from gender-based human rights abuses such as rape, domestic violence, female genital mutilation/cutting, forced marriage, and human trafficking. As the only national, multi-city organization providing a holistic model of service – including free legal and social services, policy advocacy, and training and education for frontline professionals – Tahirih displays the highest levels of efficiency and effectiveness.

In this current climate of #MeToo and #TimesUp, it is more important than ever to come together in support of organizations like Tahirih. If you would like to make a difference in the lives of thousands of women and girls and add your name to the list of generous supporters, sponsors, and auction item donors, visit www.Tahirih.org/OCGala today. 

For more information on Tahirih and its work in California and around the globe, please contact Carey Eisenberg at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

City Council to discuss funding options to underground utilities at tonight’s meeting

At its February 6 meeting, the City Council directed staff to conduct community outreach and a second random community survey. The purpose was to further measure community sentiment for funding strategies to underground utilities along Laguna Canyon Road and other key resident evacuation routes.  

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Undergrounding utilities: How much will it cost?

The survey details and results will be discussed at tonight’s City Council meeting (May 22). The meeting begins at 6 p.m. at 505 Forest Ave.

American Legion and VFW to conduct Memorial Day Ceremony at Heisler Park on Monday, May 28

On Monday, May 28, Laguna Beach American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars will conduct a Memorial Day ceremony in remembrance of all their comrades who died in all the wars and conflicts protecting our country.  

The ceremony will take place at Monument Point in Heisler Park at 11 a.m. sharp. The keynote speaker will be George Ciampa, World War II veteran. Music, graciously provided by Jon Lundgren, will begin at 10:30.  

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Photo by Scott Brashier

Laying of a wreath, 2017

The public is invited to come early, as seating is limited.  

For more information, please contact Richard Moore at (949) 376-6340 or Diane Connell at (949) 494-2065.

Many organizations place floral offerings on the Heisler Park Memorial Monument during the ceremony. If you send or bring floral arrangements, please make sure your organization’s name is attached. It is suggested that those having flowers delivered try to get them in place by 9:30.  

If you intend to send or bring floral arrangements, please call Diane Connell at (949) 494-2065.

Countdown to Motown with the LagunaTunes Chorus takes place on June 10 at 4 p.m. 

On Sunday, June 10 at 4 p.m. at the Artists’ Theatre at the high school, LagunaTunes Chorus (Laguna’s own all-community, no-audition vocal group) celebrates Motown songs from the ‘60s and ‘70s with a free concert. Get ready for a high-energy flashback to the days when radio DJs brought us the top hits on radio countdown shows! The list includes classics made famous by Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and groups like The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Supremes, and Gladys Knight and the Pips. 

Founded in 2003, LagunaTunes Chorus celebrates fifteen years with the return of one of its founding directors, Roxanna Ward, in a special guest appearance. Ward, a popular local musician, teacher, and entertainer, is also well known for her sellout cabaret and comedy appearances. 

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Here they are: the LagunaTunes Chorus members

LagunaTunes Director Bob Gunn also directs the St. Mary’s choir and MenAlive (the Orange County’s Gay Men’s Chorus). His MenAlive concerts have brought audiences to their feet all over southern California, across the USA, and in Europe. 

New members are encouraged to join LagunaTunes…without fearing an audition. It’s a friendly and inclusive group, and singers of all training and experience levels are welcome. Some members read music, some do not; age levels cover a broad range, and all are united by a love of music. Emphasis is on fun, learning, improving performance skills, and the joy of group singing. After a few weeks of rehearsal, new members are typically surprised at how well they can sing! 

The LagunaTunes Chorus also presents another concert in December, with rehearsals starting in September. Rehearsals are weekly, Monday nights (7 - 9 p.m.) at Thurston Middle School, 2100 Park Ave. Two or three Saturday practices are also held in preparation for the concert. 

LagunaTunes is a 501(c)(3) organization that provides choral singing to everyone and presents two concerts per year. Funding is provided by the Festival of Arts Foundation and The Lodging Establishments and City of Laguna Beach. 

For more information, visit www.lagunatuneschorus.org or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .