Police Files

LBPD will be out “in full force” Sunday, in anticipation of possible rallies

Sgt. Jim Cota told Stu News Laguna on Thursday evening that LBPD will be out “in full force” Sunday, Sep 24 at Main Beach, in anticipation of possible rallies including a previously scheduled (but possibly canceled) America First rally. There will be multiple agencies on hand again, including officers on horseback.

America First’s Johnny Benetiz told LBPD that he would “not be rallying on Sunday”, said Cota, after reports he had received death threats to his family.

However, it is unknown if others from the group will show up, as original plans were to gather Sunday starting at 3 p.m.

Regardless of whether or not America First supporters show up, a peace rally is scheduled for Sunday at Main Beach from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The rally will be aimed at “promoting peace and unity for our community”. Organizers encourage rally goers to wear pink to support The Race for the Cure.

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Photo by Scott Brashier

LBPD will patrol Main Beach Sunday in anticipation of possible rallies

Three more residential burglaries reported this week

Laguna Beach residents reported three more residential burglaries this week. 

On Sunday, an unknown suspect broke into a residence in the 200 block of San Joaquin Street. Artwork and kitchen items were moved or taken, and a $2,000 chair was also stolen from the residence. A complete inventory is still being compiled.

Two burglaries on High Drive were reported on Wednesday, both of which occurred sometime after August 30. 

“In the first, the suspect broke a bedroom window,” said Sgt. Jim Cota, LBPD spokesperson. “The suspect went through specific drawers looking for small items but did not ransack the entire home.”

The second High Drive burglary had similar circumstances: the suspect broke a rear glass door and went through drawers, but did not ransack the residence. The exact loss for both is still unknown.

“So far, we do not have a connection in the burglaries, but we are not ruling it out,” said Cota.

Cell phone conversation interrupted by robber

On Sunday at 12:52 p.m., officers went to the bus depot on Broadway Street to respond to a call.

While there, the officers were approached by a man who reported that another man had stolen his cell phone.

“The victim stated that he was talking to his mother on the phone when the suspect hit him with a closed fist twice in the mouth and side of his face,” said Sgt. Jim Cota. “The suspect took the phone and ran away.”

Officers were able to locate the suspect, identified as Bryce Summers, 18, no fixed address.

Summers was detained and the phone was returned back to the victim.

Once video footage of the crime was reviewed and the victim’s story verified, Summers was arrested for robbery and was transported to Orange County Jail. Bail was $100,000.

Planning Commissioners want more information before approving changes to second unit ordinance

By BARBARA DIAMOND

The Planning Commission on Wednesday tossed the ball back into staff’s court after a lengthy discussion on revisions to the city’s ordinance regarding Accessory Dwelling Units.

Commissioners asked for more information about ways to calculate which lots would be eligible for what used to be called second units, size of the units, graphics of possible configurations, parking requirements and a definition of public transportation to determine if the city’s “Little Blue Buses” could be counted.  

“It seems we had more questions than answers,” said Commissioner Anne Johnson.

Changes in the ordinance must comply with state laws passed in 2016. 

The intent of the state legislation was to address California’s housing shortage by making it easier to develop second units, detached or within a single-family home, according to the staff report to the commission by planners Melinda Dacey and Monique Alaniz-Flejter. 

A bump in the inventory of affordable housing at or below the going rate in pricey neighborhoods would provide options for family members, students, the elderly, in-home health care providers, the disabled and other vulnerable folks.

Fiftieth District Assemblyman Richard Bloom, who authored AB 2299, wrote City Manager John Pietig on Sept 13 to “strongly request” the city begin processing requests for approval of second units in accordance with the state law, while updating the local ordinance.

State law and the Local Coastal Plan

The revision in the ordinance must be incorporated in the city’s Local Coastal Plan, which requires certification by the Californian Coastal Commission.

“Follow the law now,” said resident Cort Shannon. “It could be a year or more for a new [amended] ordinance to become part of the certified Local Coastal Plan.” 

Shannon urged the commission to offer incentives, such as tax breaks, fee waivers and faster processing of applications.

Incentives could be tied to deed restrictions specifying low-income renters, said Community Development Director Greg Pfost.   

Resident Charlotte Masarik asked the commissioners to be wary of unintended consequences. 

“Potentially, these ‘ADUs’ could morph into short term lodgings and we know enforcement is all but impossible,” said Masarik.

Accessory dwellings are detached from the main structure, JADUs ( junior accessory dwellings) are under the same roof as the primary living space. 

“JDUs provide immediate, low-hanging fruit in as much as they are less than 500 square feet and within an existing structure,” said Housing and Human Services Committee member Kimberly Norton. “Voila!”

Access to fire services in high-density neighborhoods is an issue

However, Emergency and Disaster Preparedness Committee Chair Matt Lawson urged caution in developing affordable housing that would increase density in “access-impaired” neighborhoods. 

“Our firefighters are superb at navigating large emergency apparatus on our sub-standard streets but they aren’t magicians and mutual aid firefighters from other agencies may not have the same skills,” said Lawson. 

He advised careful control of second unit development in risky neighborhoods. 

Unfortunately, the state fire marshal has classified about 90 percent of Laguna highest fire risk, according to Lawson. 

Nine applications to develop ADU are in the pipeline, according to Pfost.

Norton questioned the delay in approvals. 

“The state has provided guidelines, why not follow them,” she asked. “I request the commissioners meet with the Housing and Human Services Committee, the Seniors Task Force and the Board of Realtors, who are very informed before recommending any provisions that unintentionally inhibit ADU creation.”

Staff has until late November to prepare the answers to the questions asked by Commissioners on Wednesday. 

Commission OKs staff TKO on downtown development

By BARBARA DIAMOND

The Planning Commission on Wednesday agreed to jettison recommendations by consultant MIG on the topic of re-use and Intensification in the revisions to the Downtown Specific Plan.

Commissioners voted 5-0 to accept staff’s agreement with recommendations by an ad hoc committee to scrap policies described as obsolete due to the current economic climate and changes in commercial uses, and shunt still-relevant policies to other areas of the document.

“Speaking for the ad hoc committee, I agree with the staff report,” said former Planning Commissioner Norm Grossman.

Senior Planner Wendy Yung’s report to the commission stated that staff believes the committee’s comments and suggestions were reasonable. She identified the committee as composed of a group of interested residents that want to build consensus on suggested changes to the Downtown Specific Plan. 

Staff and consultant’s recommendations differ significantly

Asked by Commissioner Roger McErlane how the staff recommendations could differ so much from the consultant’s, Community Development Director Greg replied that staff works with the consultant, but adds its own perspective.

Written comments by the Ad Hoc Committee included removal of the topic, originally developed to address economic pressures 10 or even 20 years ago, many of them now irrelevant. 

The committee contended that still relevant policies can appropriately be moved to other topics, such as MIG’s position on shared second story office uses as justification for parking relief, which the committee rejected as covered in another section of the plan and which should be discussed there. 

An MIG recommendation to change the title of the topic from “Re-use and Intensification” to “Small–Scale Development” was also squelched, although Grossman agreed with the elimination of the word, intensification.

“It gets an adverse reaction,” said Grossman.

Members of the ad hoc committee also include former Planning Commissioners Becky Jones, Barbara Metzger and Realtor Bob Chapman; former Mayor Ann Christoph; Village Laguna Board member Kate Clark; and business owners Kavita Reddy, David Rubel and Kent Russell.

Guest column

Granny flats: A history, some comments and a few suggestions

Written by AL TREVINO 

My wife Dolores and I grew up in Pasadena before migrating to Laguna.

We purchased our lot in Bluebird Canyon on Madison Place in 1959. I had some education and experience in planning and was just completing the Master Plan for the 7,000-acre Shoemaker Ranch known as Niguel Ranch, which we ultimately re-named Laguna Niguel.

That was 58 years ago when we dreamed of being able to stay in our home even as we grew old, because the parcel was zoned for a unique unit known as a Granny Flat. I designed the house to meet those requirements. A free-standing two-car garage exists with ten feet between the main house and the garage, per city code.

A few years later I accepted a Presidential appointment and was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as an Assistant Secretary and President of the New Community Corporation. I then leased a home in Georgetown and two of our daughters joined me.

Dolores stayed in Laguna due to her asthma and this was one of the reasons we moved to Laguna Beach rather than staying in Pasadena. We lived in Laguna for almost 60 years and I’m still here.

Photo credit: Priscilla Iezzi/Orange Coast Magazine

Al Trevino

During the time I was serving our nation, the then city council changed the rules related to Granny Flats. I did not learn about this until I returned. They had now made it impossible for us to meet our dream and exercise our right.   

The city council added an additional parking requirement and other conditions, which made having a Granny Flat in Laguna an impossibility.

Did the City Manager, staff, legal counsel and City Council of that time realize they had done irrevocable damage to the Laguna elderly citizen by imposing unrealistic conditions to the Granny Flat option?

I am angry about this flagrant misuse of power that directly injures Laguna’s elderly.

The issue of caring for senior citizens has been known for decades, yet Laguna Beach changed what was a workable solution to one that is uneconomic, making it virtually impossible to construct a granny flat and creating a situation detrimental to owners of modest homes.

Give me back my dream

What I would like to happen is to have the City give me back my dream of a place to live out my life in Laguna.  This can be accomplished by several methods.

For example, either grandfather the zoning that existed at that time the land was acquired, or revise the current ordinances to include the conditions that existed in 1960.

I do have some planning experience after all, and much of that in Laguna has been with the goal of improving the beauty of our community.  Perhaps three projects most would be familiar with are Main Beach Design, the Sign Ordinance, and the Laguna Canyon entry planting of trees, which required approval from CalTrans that the city was not able to obtain – until Harry Lawrence asked for my assistance.

Outside of Laguna Beach I have done work such as the concept and plan for Newport Center/Fashion Island, now celebrating its 50th anniversary, and for many of the most widely recognized villages within the City of Irvine and Newport, including University Park, Turtle Rock, Linda Isle and Eastbluff.

Under the President Bush administration I was invited back to Washington as Assistant Secretary of PD&R, the research arm of HUD.  This occurred during the weeks after 9/11. My research budget was more than $100 million and I directed some work related to senior housing on existing residential parcels. 

A plan is on its way

A great deal has been published on this subject and a few cities have successfully implemented various approaches. 

Last Wednesday evening, I attended the Planning Commission hearing and listened to the public comments and the presentation by city staff. What is interesting to me is the time and tortuous scheduling that is apparently necessary to pass a piece of legislation.

After all, the State of California already passed the legislation on January of this year. It has now been eight months and the city staff cannot complete even a final draft much less sending it to the Council for approval.

Are they still not willing to accept that the State “trumps” the city? It seems they want to include provisions that give the city complete control.

I’m going to prepare a plan and see what happens.

We need Granny Flats to serve our elderly population!

Food Pantry’s Come to the Table afternoon benefit will take place in the gorgeous garden of a private home

Back by popular demand, Laguna Food Pantry is reviving a series of casual dining events titled “Come to the Table,” the first of which will take place on Sunday, Oct 1 from 3 to 6 p.m. 

The event offers relaxed fun in the sunshine, in contrast to many of the formal evening events that demand so much attention and time. 

Guitarist and local wealth adviser Nicholas Yrizarry will perform acoustic flamenco music as paella, tapas, and sangria are served in the elegant “secret garden” of long-time volunteers, the McErlanes.

(Reservations are required, as this is expected to be a popular event. Visit www.lagunafoodpantry.org to buy tickets.)

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Submitted photo

Visit this lovely garden, sip some sangria, and help feed a hungry child

“Several years ago, a group of us held casual neighborhood ‘Come to the Table’ benefit dinners and they were a great success,” said Sharon McErlane. 

She and her husband Roger, also a volunteer for the Pantry, will open their gracious Dutch Colonial-style home and its magnificent garden to 80 or so guests for the event. 

“We’re gathering around our table so that all families in south Orange County are able to put food on their tables,” Sharon added. “We are committed to making sure no one in our abundant region goes hungry.”

A limited number of tickets will be sold at $95 each; reservations are required. To purchase tickets visit www.lagunafoodpantry.org or call 949-497-7121.

Every weekday, Laguna Food Pantry collects and distributes 2,800 lbs. of free, fresh, nutritious groceries to serve approximately 100 low-income families. Half of those families include babies and children. 

Located at 20652 Laguna Canyon Road north of the Dog Park, the Pantry is open from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. 

New volunteers are always welcome. Phone: 949-497-7121 www.lagunafoodpantry.org.

Tickets now on sale for Lagunatics at No Square

No Square Theatre’s 25th season is about to start. Laguna’s beloved parody of all things dear to, well, nearly everyone, will debut on Oct 13 and run until Nov 5.

Spreading rhyme disease since 1992

This year’s motto is, beautifully, “spreading rhyme disease since 1992.” Mad-sacred-cow disease, more likely, as the audience gets to hear original songs and watch Broadway-quality performances about the nearly-dearly-departed pepper tree, the invasion of the drones, and who knows, maybe even the smoking ban (though Sean Spicer probably wouldn’t characterize it that way…).

This 2017 production will be directed by Bree Burgess Rosen and choreographed by Paul Nygro. The music director is Roxanna Ward.

To purchase tickets or become a member, visit www.nosquare.org.Performances take place on Oct 13 - 14, 20 - 22, 27 - 29, Nov 3-5, with the 25th Anniversary Gala on Nov 5.

(How do the writers come up with their ideas? Well, more information on that in Tuesday’s edition of Stu News!)

“The Voice” Taps Laguna Voice’s Janice Freeman for Monday night’s premier show

Written by DIANE ARMITAGE

On Monday night, Sept 25, more than 12 million viewers will be tuning in to see the premiere of The Voice. 

And during that premiere, an international circle of fans is going to be introduced to Janice Freeman, who was plucked from Mozambique’s Laguna Voice to audition for the internationally top-ranked television show. 

Janice Freeman made her first appearance at Mozambique’s popular singing contest, Laguna Voice, last October. After shaking the rafters of the second-floor bar (and taking home the first place cash prize), owner Ivan Spiers noted that he’d never heard that kind of talent in his restaurant. 

Although Laguna Voice was certainly not her first time on stage, Janice credits the singing contest for offering a growing, supportive audience as well as international live streaming of each live music event. 

“Laguna Voice may seem small, but it’s mighty!” says Janice.  

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Photo courtesy Marcus Redd

Janice Freeman is fierce

“As a singer, you perform at every opportunity and on every stage you’re invited to, and you just believe that – some day - you’re going to be in front of the right people at the right moment,” she says. “Laguna Voice offers an opportunity for that magical moment for hundreds of very talented singers who might not otherwise be ‘found’.”   

Janice returned to Laguna Voice nearly every month thereafter to be greeted by a growing crowd of fans and delighted judges. And then, as spring melted into summer, she just disappeared! It wasn’t until several weeks later that we learned she had been called by The Voice to audition in a series of preliminary rounds. 

Last week, The Voice announced that Janice will be one of the lucky 100 contestants who will audition in front of the four celebrity coaches on Monday, Sept. 25. (There’s a possibility she will be on the Tuesday evening show, instead, but all signs point to Monday night.) 

On both nights, four coaches take their seats and, with the turn of their chairs, will usher 40 singers into the season’s show. All fingers are crossed that our own Janice Freeman makes the cut and selects a coach to begin her journey. 

(Although she’s an LA resident, Janice has made the trek many a time specifically to Laguna Beach to participate on Laguna Voice and, as far as I’m concerned, that makes her one of our own.)

This season, with more than 30 million records sold, superstar singer, songwriter and actress Miley Cyrus returns as a coach with Oscar, Grammy, and Golden Globe award winner Jennifer Hudson. They join the longtime popular duo, Top Country Artist and five-time CMA award winner Blake Shelton and Grammy-award winning crowd favorite, Adam Levine. 

Be sure to tune in Monday night and, hopefully, as the show progresses, we will all be able to vote for Janice Freeman’s deserved claim to fame. 

Find Janice Freeman’s music on YouTube, iTunes, Spotify, Soundcloud, Jango, Facebook, Instagram and Reverbnation.

So, yes, the Aquathon happened…not so unexpectedly after all

And so it was that the Aquathon took place on Sunday Sept 17, despite the annual threatened cancellation. Dozens of sea-smart people of all ages took part in the event, gathering in the early morning at Emerald Bay to embark on a journey from one end of Laguna to the other by land, or (mostly) by sea. 

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Photo by Wayne Bass

Sea-smart adventurers gathered at Emerald Bay last Sunday

Some, like local realtor Dave Csira, heard about the quixotic quest to conquer the coastline for the first time this year.

“I was surprised when during a conversation with Gary Cogorno about helping with a fundraising event for the Laguna Canyon Foundation, he said he would be slammed for the next month getting ready for the Aquathon,” Csira says. “I said, the what? He couldn’t believe I hadn’t heard about the Aquathon.”

So Corgorno explained: “The Aquathon is a walk-swim that extends the entire eight miles of Laguna Beach’s coastline. It takes place every year, although it has frequently been cancelled yet somehow it always takes place. This year, the event will happen on September 17, unless it doesn’t, in which case it won’t. (But it will.)”

Csira says he blinked a few times trying to comprehend what he’d just heard, somewhat disoriented by the doubletalk.

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Photo by Dave Csira

Lang Csira explores some of Laguna’s nooks and crannies

“All I knew was that I wanted in,” Csira adds. “It turns out that over the 30 years the event has taken place (or not taken place), there have been instances in which the event has been cancelled by officials citing the inherent dangers of such an undertaking. 

“At these times, the organizer (usually Gary) will announce to the crowd of approximately 200 intrepid adventurers that the event is off. This is typically met with raucous cheers and applause as the participants rush to the waves to begin their southbound trek.”

So Csira and his daughter Lang Csira took to the surf in Emerald Bay, heading south toward Three Arch Bay at the other end of town. 

“Conditions were great: 69 degree water, small surf, temperatures around 72 and some welcome cloud cover. Donning our fins and goggles, we swam around the southern tip of Emerald Bay to Crescent Bay, pointing to the plethora of tropical fish as we swam,” Csira says. 

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Photo by Matt Wheaton

Flynn Wheaton’s flipper frames the fabulous undersea shot

“The group of people around us ranged from pre-teens to septuagenarians and could not have been more helpful, happy and exhilarated, Csira adds. “Before the event, I heard the hype about how you’ll discover all these new sights and places, but I was still shocked at the many geological formations along the way.”

For Matt Wheaton, this year’s Aquathon was a special one as he was able to include his 13-year-old son Flynn Wheaton for the first time.

“Flynn brought along one of his besties so we decided to modify the route a tad to ensure a positive experience for them on their inaugural run,” Wheaton says. “We started our mini Aquathon at Mountain Street Beach at around noon and finished up at Three Arch Bay around four hours later. 

“Along the way we saw a ton of sea life and some very special things we have never seen in Laguna waters including a four foot long horn shark and a gorgeous striped sea hare just hanging out on the steps of one of the ‘secret pools’ in SoLag.”  

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Photo courtesy Matt Wheaton

Matt and son Flynn enjoy the Aquathon experience

“As a lifelong resident of Laguna Beach and a repeat Aquathon participant, this year will always be memorable for me as I got to share in the “first time” experience of my son.”

To learn more about future Aquathons, visit www.aquathon.com. All fees for participating (they’re minimal) go toward supporting the Junior Lifeguards program.

Get ready for next year’s event, but be warned: it may be cancelled…

KXMas falls on Dec 2 this year with KX 93.5’s annual A-list show: Eric Burdon & The Animals 

Christmas Day, as always, falls on Dec 25 this year.

But KXMas, on the other hand, will take place on Dec 2 during a festive, hollyer-than-thou fabulous A list concert featuring Eric Burdon and the Animals at the Irvine Bowl (FOA grounds).

“Laguna Beach deserves A-list concerts to complement its vibrant arts scene. We have a venue that rivals Hollywood Bowl in our backyard, so we’re going to bring that level of talent,” said Tyler Russell, program director and founder of KX 93.5. 

That’s right: KX 93.5, Laguna Beach’s independent radio station, will welcome 1960s rockers Eric Burdon & The Animals to Irvine Bowl (Pageant of the Masters, Festival of Arts venue) on Sat, Dec 2. 

What a great way to wrap up the present year…and also, search no more for the ideal gift for your friends and family: just buy tickets to the KXMas concert – no muss, no fuss, no mess – just the expectation of happy gratitude for a once-in-a-lifetime event.

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Photo by Marianna Burdon

Eric Burdon

Enjoy spiked punch and drunk Santas long before everyone else: why wait for a family get-together to watch your favorite uncle or aunt overimbibe?

This will be the third concert KX 93.5 has held in Irvine Bowl, previously welcoming The Beach Boys and Kenny Loggins. The radio station remains the only organization approved for concerts in the historic outdoor venue, which has been home to a live art show for 85 years. 

Hustlin’ Russell works year-round to book the perfect artist that represents the radio station’s “Generational Alt Rock” format and Laguna Beach’s music taste. He thinks Eric Burdon and The Animals are a perfect fit for the city. 

Burdon has released nearly 50 records in 50 years, as front man of The Animals, WAR, and under his own name. He has shared the stage with legends such as Chuck Berry, Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Witherspoon, Otis Redding and Bruce Springsteen. Hits he’ll play at the show include; “House of the Rising Sun,” “We Gotta Get Out of This Place,” and “Spill the Wine.”

In addition to the concert, the Festival of Arts grounds will host a “Winter Wonderland,” with various themed holiday parties presented by sponsors. Montage Laguna Beach will host the VIP party at Tivoli Terrace. A meet ‘n’ greet with Eric Burdon is also available for purchase. 

Other sponsors include Cox Communications, Yrizarry Wealth Management, Firebrand Media, Stu News Laguna, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

One hundred percent of the shows proceeds will benefit non-profits KX 93.5, Friendship Shelter, and Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce. 

Tickets, including VIP and M&G options, are available at KX935.com. The KX 93.5 member-presale begins on Sept 19 at 10 a.m., and the general public on-sale begins on Sept 22 at 10 a.m. Prices range from $29 to $299. 

Shop early this year for KXMas!

Sticky rice, “Stinky” and suspension bridges shine the light on engineering creativity in Dream Big

By LYNETTE BRASFIELD

Sticky rice is one of the reasons that much of the Great Wall of China has survived centuries more-or-less intact. (A paste of sticky rice flour and slaked lime gave the Wall both flexibility and stability.) This I learned just recently while watching McGillivray Freeman’s amazing IMAX film Dream Big. I had no idea.

But these are the kinds of random facts that make my heart sing with the pure pleasure of discovery, and which are sure to inspire many a potential young engineer.

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Photo courtesy McGillvray Freeman

Sticky rice is the Great Wall of China’s secret to longevity

During the course of the approximately 40-minute show, I found my mouth frequently agape as I gained fascinating insights into the way things are built, from skyscrapers to submersible robots to possible high-speed trains (and I mean high-speed – from LA to San Francisco in 30 minutes?), for all kinds of reasons until then not known to me.

Some people featured in the film at first appear to be unlikely heroes: viewers thrill to see a high school science team’s inventiveness in building robotics – and their resourcefulness in saving their “Stinky” robot from imminent demise – as they go on to beat MIT’s team.

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Photo courtesy McGillivray Freeman 

Stinky the submersible was the little engine that could…beat MIT

There’s Menzer Pehlivan, the Turkish woman who saw massive destruction around her home during the epic 7.6 magnitude earthquake of 1999, and who is now one of the world’s experts in seismic construction issues. 

And then there’s the team of young people who design bridges in rural areas that quite literally lead to education, crossing from village to schools across previously impassable rivers. Oh, and solar-powered cars. And a Shanghai skyscraper that houses 16,000 people. And more…

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Photo courtesy McGillivray Freeman

These bridges literally lead to education – to schools across impassable rivers

Dream Big is a soaring tribute to the imagination and creativity of the world’s engineers. It is also an invitation to young and old to explore the mysteries and wonders all around us, a paean to inventiveness.

There is so much more to say about this great show, but I’ve said enough – part of the fun is in its surprises.

Go see it. You’ll love it. Your kids will love it too. 

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Photo courtesy McGillivray Freeman 

Solar cars are often ridden solo in searing heat: engineers will solve these issues

Expect them to aspire to engineering by the time they leave the darkened auditorium…or at the very least, attempt to build their own Stinky. Life is about to get interesting around your home after you leave the movie theatre.

The MacGillivray’s goal is to have a DVD of Dream Big placed in every school in America by the 2017/18 school year – talk about dreaming big.

Do visit the website at www.dreambigfilm.com to learn more about the vast educational resources associated with Dream Big, all of which promise to make teaching a hands-on delight for educators and children.

Best in Show: Rotary Club’s Annual LB Invitational Classic Car Show attracts finest cars on Oct 1

On Sun, Oct 1, classic car enthusiasts gather for The Rotary Club’s Annual Invitational Classic Car Show, which will be held on the city grounds opposite the Festival of Arts. It opens at 9:30 a.m. and continues until 3 p.m. 

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Photo by Rick Lang

Close-up example of past entry

This event features 200 cars in 26 award categories and continually draws the best examples in each category. A few of the categories this year are Antiques through 1931, muscle cars, and woodies (for a full list of the 26 categories, go to the website below).

Participants will enjoy strolling among the cars, food, drink, and live music.

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Photo by Rick Lang

Car enthusiasts mingle among cars and enjoy festivities

The entry fee is $45 and includes two gate passes and a special gift pack. The proceeds go to local charitable and non-profit organizations.

To purchase tickets, or to enter a car in the show, go to www.lagunabeachcarshow.com.  

For more information, call Harry Bithell at 949-874-1742

Kaira Rouda debuts her novel Best Day Ever: will be a panelist at the 4th Annual Ladies of Intrigue 

Best-selling novelist and Lagunan Kaira Rouda told a packed crowd at Laguna Beach Books last Sunday that her latest novel, Best Day Ever, categorized as domestic suspense, came about as a result of her long-time love of crime novels and her success in writing women’s fiction. The time had come to combine the two.

But there’s a twist in this book – Rouda’s narrator is male (and unreliable). 

“At first my agent had a difficult time selling it as women’s fiction, because it’s written in first person with a male protagonist,” Rouda said.

Then Graydon House, NY, a new imprint of Harper Collins, made an offer, and neither Rouda nor her agent have looked back for a second since. With a printing of 60K, the publisher is clearly confident of Rouda’s success. 

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Kaira Rouda celebrates with Mayor Toni Iseman 

A member of the audience wanted to know why Rouda thought her book was already so popular.

“I think we like to hear about relationships that are worse than our own,” Rouda said, only half-jokingly. She admits to basing the main character – in short, not a good guy – on some former bosses.

The book has already gathered many accolades: 

“This latest psychological thriller from bestselling Rouda is destined to fly off the shelves, enticing readers to ride along as this multifaceted day in the life of the Stroms unfolds.” Library Journal Review

“It’s clear from the beginning that something sinister is going on in this novel, which will cost you sleep as you race through its pages. Chilling, satisfying suspense.” GoodHousekeeping.com

“A tensely written, shocking book that will hold readers on the edge of their seats to the very last page.” Publishers Weekly

“Darkly funny, scandalous, and utterly satisfying.” Kirkus Reviews.

Rouda recently returned from England, where she was fortunate to meet a lot of “cool crime-writing women” including Paula Hawkins, author of The Girl on the Train, a domestic suspense novel that took the publishing world by storm.

Rouda will be a panelist at the 4th Annual Ladies of Intrigue Event presented by the Orange County Sisters in Crime. The event will be held on Sun, Oct 1, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Embassy Suites by Hilton-Santa Ana Orange County Airport, 1325 E Dyer Rd, in Santa Ana. 

Best-selling author and criminal attorney Marcia Clark will be in conversation with MC Barbara DeMarco-Barrett, local author and KUCI-FM show host. The other headliner will be New York Times best-selling author, Wendy Corsi Staub, aka Wendy Markham. 

In addition to Kaira, other panelists include: Jill Amadio, Greta Boris, Naomi Hirahara, Sybil Johnson, Elizabeth Little, Nadine Nettmann, Alexandra Sokoloff, Patricia Wynn and Pamela Samuels Young.

For additional information and registration: http://www.mysteryink.com/

Mystery Ink Bookstore is located at 8907 Warner Ave #135, HB. 

Crystal Cove Soiree celebrates sustainable future with 

dining, dancing and fundraising on Sat Oct 7

On Sat, Oct 7, guests will enjoy an evening under the stars, complete with breathtaking sunset views and an elegant catered dinner, as Crystal Cove Conservancy celebrates its15th Annual Crystal Cove Soiree. 

A limited number of tables and individual seats are available now for public purchase for the bluff-top event at Crystal Cove State Park.

The Soiree will begin at 5 p.m. with an al fresco cocktail reception with hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. The Resort at Pelican Hill is donating the hors d’oeuvres, as well as the delectable dinner duo of filet mignon and Maine lobster. 

There will be a live auction, and live music and dancing to Super Diamond, the popular Neil Diamond tribute band, will round out the evening. Guests will have an opportunity to purchase fabulous luxury silent and live auction items, as well as support fund-a-need, to help with student scholarships for important STEM programs (science, technology, engineering and math).  

Win a three-night stay in Crystal Cove Cottage #14

Everyone – attending or not attending – are encouraged to enter the 2017 Soiree fundraiser opportunity drawing for a chance to win three glorious nights in the beautiful two-story, two-bedroom, two-bath #14 ocean front cottage.

Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

The interior of luxurious Crystal Cove cottage # 14

Occupancy of the cottage is six guests, and all existing cottage rental rules apply. Reservation dates to be coordinated with Crystal Cove Conservancy. Restrictions apply.

The winner will be drawn at the Soiree on Sat, Oct 7 and need not be present to win. The winner of the opportunity drawing will be notified after the Soiree by Oct. 13, and may select one date from the following weekends in 2018 on a first-come, first-served basis: January 12 -14; February 9 - 11; March 9 - 11; April 13 - 15; May 11 - 13; June 8 - 10; July 13 - 15; August 10 - 12; September 7 - 9; October 12 - 14; November 9 - 11; December 7 - 9.

Tickets are $100 each or seven for $500. To purchase tickets, call Crystal Cove Conservancy at 949.376.6200, ext. 201.

Sponsorships and underwriting opportunities for Crystal Cove Citizen Science School Programs and Crystal Cove Educational Programs are still available.

Individual tickets to the Soiree are $400. For information on tickets, sponsorships and opportunity drawings, visit www.crystalcove.org/soiree or call 949-376-6200 x204.

Local architect Anders Lasater recognized as Design Award Winner by the AAIOC 

At a gala on Sept 14 at the Cultural Center of the Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, The Orange Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIAOC) announced the award winners of its signature event, the 2017 Design Awards. 

In the Custom Residential Category, (which recognizes built and un-built custom homes and additions), the Laguna Beach firm of Anders Lasater Architects, Inc., was named the Merit Award Winner for the House on Del Mar, located in Laguna Beach. 

The firm was also announced as the Citation Award Winner for the Cornelio Residence, located in San Clemente.

Regarding the Del Mar property, Lasater says, “The house on Del Mar is an intimate home for an intimate site. With ocean views from either end of the narrow lot and neighboring homes to both sides, the design of the property needed to respond in a unique way. 

“To take advantage of the view, while maximizing the use of the narrow lot, the house was designed as a composition of three layers. Each layer is clad in a different finish material, helping to strengthen the idea of the stacked organization,” he added.

Click on photo for larger image

Submitted photo

Anders Lasater Architects, Inc., Merit Award Winner for the Del Mar House

“[What is wonderful is that] the AIAOC Design Awards jury recognized the challenges this design faced and admired our thoughtful response. They could see the clear idea behind the house, not only in our diagrams, but also in the resolution of the architecture,” Lasater said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to have our work recognized by such esteemed members of our architectural design community.” 

As for the Cornelio Residence, he explains, “Designed for a neurosurgeon, an attorney, and their family, the Cornelio house sits on a narrow corner lot with gorgeous views of the hills, city, and the Pacific horizon beyond.”

The AIAOC Design Awards honor innovative solutions to the architectural challenges facing OC, regardless of project category, type, or budget. It is the core belief of the chapter that great architecture matters and that its members create a better place of living by supporting dynamic and constantly evolving communities. 

The American Institute of Architects, Orange County Chapter (AIAOC) was established in 1952 by 18 members and is California’s third largest chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). For more information about the AIAOC, visit aiaocorangecounty.org. 

Anders Lasater Architects is located at 384 Forest Ave. Phone 949 497 1827.

Laguna resident Laura Tarbox offers investment advice as part of nonprofit “It’s Your Money” program

Laguna resident Laura Tarbox, a UCLA graduate with 37 years of investment and financial planning experience, will speak at the non-profit educational event, “It’s Your Money!” on Mon, Sept 25 at 10 a.m. at the Newport Beach Central Library. This session is part of a series on Financial Planning, with this week’s focus on finding the right advisor and how to think about your overall financial plan.  

Submitted photo

Laura Tarbox

Tarbox, who founded her own fee-only wealth advisory firm in 1985, focuses on true, fee-only financial planning (including estate and tax planning, charitable giving, insurance and retirement optimization) for the total financial wellbeing of her clients.  She will talk about how to find the right advisor, along with comprehensive financial planning, and how to develop a healthy investment philosophy. 

Laura Tarbox is one of the earliest pioneers of the financial planning profession and certainly one of the first women to embark on this career.  Her company, Tarbox Family Office, is recognized as one of the top wealth management firms in the country. 

The Newport Beach Central Library is located at 1000 Avocado Street.  No RSVP required. 

“It’s Your Money” is a program moderated by Peter Kote, founder of the workshop series and the not-for-profit http://www.FEELinControl.org, which complements the workshop series with articles and outlines for each topic.

Village Laguna meeting on Mon Sept 25 will focus on downtown issues

Chamber of Commerce members and Village Laguna representatives meet regularly to learn and share information regarding alternatives to projects currently under evaluation by the Planning Commission, as produced by the City’s consultant.

The meeting on Mon Sept 25 will be focused on the Downtown Specific Plan and how it might be improved to satisfy the demands of many, given new information.

The gathering will take place at 7 p.m. at the Universalist Fellowship at 429 Cypress Drive.

Community emergency response team (CERT) citywide drill will take place on Sept 30 

The first citywide CERT drill will take place on Sept 30, at The Ranch, 31106 Coast Highway, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The drill is a refresher training exercise for existing CERT members who wish to take part. There are currently more than 300 active members, including Laguna Beach Unified School District trained individuals.

In addition, Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel and San Clemente CERT teams have been invited to send five members each to take part in this simulated earthquake situation.

The drill also will serve as the ‘final exam’ for approximately 35 newly trained students who are signed up for the CERT class that began Sept 5. CERT drills such as this are organized by trained CERT members with advice and assistance from the Emergency Operations Coordinator, Police Department and Fire Department, all of whom will be onsite during the exercise.

Participants will practice search and rescue/fire suppression, cribbing, triage and medical skills, and radio communications in teams of approximately 15 people each under the direction of Incident Command officers assigned duties similar to those used at actual disaster scenes.

The Ranch agreed to host this first-of-its-kind event and is working with CERT personnel to make certain that Ranch guests and golfers are not affected by the simulated disaster.

For more information about the CERT drill, contact Emergency Operations Coordinator Jordan Villwock at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (949) 497-0389.

City Manager’s Update

Fallen Officer Ceremony - Thurs, Sept 21, marked the four-year anniversary of the in the line of duty death of Laguna Beach Police Officer Jon Coutchie. At 6 p.m. on September 21, in front of the police officer’s memorial in front of the police station, the Laguna Beach Police Department held a ceremony in honor and remembrance of Officer Coutchie and Officer Gordon French, who both gave the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the citizens on this city.

Review Final Draft of Laguna Canyon Planning Study - The City of Laguna Beach and consultant MIG will continue their efforts on the Laguna Canyon Planning Study Project on Tues, Sept 26, during the City Council’s regularly scheduled meeting at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall.  

The focus of the planning study is to review zoning and development standards regarding property within the Laguna Canyon study area. The Laguna Canyon Planning Study has been presented as a draft report to the Planning Commission in a series of three hearings, and will conclude with a final hearing before the City Council. 

A copy of the final draft report is available to review on the City’s website: www.lagunabeachcity.net.  For more information on the Laguna Canyon Planning Study Project, contact: Wendy Jung, Senior Planner at (949) 497-0321; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . 

New Fire Engine and Vehicle for the City - The fire department took delivery of a new fire engine this week.  It was built by Pierce Manufacturing and will soon go into service at Station #1. The cost of the engine was $644,000. We also took delivery of a new command vehicle. This unit will be placed in service as the Battalion 1 vehicle and will be housed at Fire Station #2.

Click on photos for larger images

Photos courtesy City Manager

New fire engine and command vehicle

Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System - On Sept 27 at 11:20 a.m. PST, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a mandatory test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The test will assess the readiness for distribution of the national level test message, as well as verify its delivery.  

The EAS test is made available to radio, television, cable and direct broadcast satellite systems, and is scheduled to last approximately one minute.

Annual Composting Classes - The City’s solid waste hauler, Waste Management, will offer the final free composting class for 2017 on Sat, Sept 23, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Bluebird Park, located at 798 Bluebird Cyn Drive. Compost and worm bins will be available for purchase during the class at a discounted price.  

For more information, contact the Waste Management class instructor, Lisa Ryder, at (310) 874-2499 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . 

Main Beach Park Bench Painting - On Mon, Sept 25, the 47 wooden benches at Main Beach Park will be sanded and re-stained. The project is expected to be completed by Wed, Oct 4.  The project will be done in phases so that most of the benches will be available for the public at all times.  For more information, contact Maintenance Supervisor, Wayne Chintala, at (949) 464-6644.

Street Resurfacing - Construction will begin next week to repair and resurface roadways in the Mystic Hills, Skyline, lower Bluebird Canyon, and lower Summit Drive areas, including Park Avenue between Wendt Terrace and Hillview Drive. Preliminary construction notices have been mailed to affected residents.  

The project is expected to be completed by the end of November.  For more information, visit the project website at www.lagunabeachcity.net/slurryseal or call (844) LAGUNA4 or (844) 524-8624.

Fall Aquatics Programs - The Community Services Department is still accepting registrations for all aquatics programming. Sign up for the gold medal winning age group water polo program, or make a splash on the swim

team. 

Register online at: https://secure.rec1.com/CA/city-of-laguna-beach/catalog/index?filter=Y2F0ZWdvcnklNUI1NDYyJTVEPTEmdGFiJTVCMTI2NiU1RD0xJnNlYXJjaD0=