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Police Files

Husband struck by car while walking with wife in grave condition

On Wednesday, Feb 13, at 7:14 p.m., LBPD officers responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian traffic collision on S Coast Hwy at Mountain Road. According to reports, a husband and wife were crossing S Coast Hwy from the inland side to the ocean side. They had crossed the northbound lanes and the number one southbound lane. A southbound vehicle in the number one southbound lane had stopped as the couple entered that lane. 

“As the male crossed into the number two southbound lane, he was struck by a southbound vehicle who had failed to stop,” LBPD Spokesperson PIO Sgt Jim Cota said. “The injuries to the male were severe and he was transported to Mission Hospital, Mission Viejo. Alcohol was not a factor. The traffic investigation is ongoing.”

Duo busted for meth and heroin, male brings drug contraband into jail

On Monday, Feb 1, at 12:50 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop at S Coast Hwy and Jasmine Street. An investigation was conducted and a background check revealed Oceanside resident Beau Aguirre had an outstanding no bail warrant from San Diego. Officer Kraus also located heroin inside of his vehicle. 

“Aguirre was on probation and a probation hold was placed on him,” Sgt Cota said. “The female passenger, Natalie Gholomhossani, was also arrested for possession of methamphetamine and heroin.” 

They were both transported to LBPD for booking. In the jail, Aguirre was seen by Jailer Salgado attempting to put some type of contraband in his private parts.

“A strip search was conducted and a bindle of drugs was seen. Aguirre refused to remove the bindle. Aguirre was placed in the holding cell while being prepared to be transported to MHLB,” Sgt Cota said. “Prior to his transport, Aguirre can be seen on the jail cameras extracting the bindle of drugs, ripping the plastic bag, and then shoving it into the drain of the holding cell that contained water destroying it.” 

Aguirre was medically cleared and taken to OCJ. Gholomhossani was booked and released with a court date.

Natalie Gholomhossani, 20, of Laguna Niguel, was arrested for being in possession of a controlled substance without a prescription and a narcotic controlled substance. Bail was set at $1,000.

Beau Campbell Aguirre, 23, Oceanside, was arrested for being in possession of controlled substance paraphernalia, a narcotic controlled substance, bringing a controlled substance into jail, and violating probation. No bail was set.

Read more Police Files on our Front Page II – click here

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Marine Safety Files

2018 Marine Safety rescues, medical aid and preventions up from 2017

Marine Safety was even busier than in previous years with an increase across the board in 2018, serving our beaches and making them safer via rescues, medical aid and preventions.

According to Marine Safety Capt Kai Bond, “[in] 2018 we had approximately 5,200 rescues and that’s up from 2017. As far as medical aids go, not only just the first aid that our tower lifeguards run, but also the first support medical aids, we had approximately 4,100, which is also up from 2017. And our preventative aid actions, we had approximately 189,000 in 2018, which is also an increase.”

He attributed the year-over-year increase in these key areas to an increase in Laguna Beach visitors to our local beaches.

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Increased beach visits have caused an increase in Marine Safety activity in 2018

“Laguna Beach is a wonderful place to visit, and it’s a year-round resort. So not only do we have an impact in our peak season, we have it on a year-round basis,” Capt Bond said.

Staggered winter, spring, and summer breaks with schools getting out at different times of the year have a big impact as well. 

“Another big thing is social media too. Because of course, kids are always active in social media, and people posting beautiful photos and videos of our beaches, it just brings more people to our beautiful coastline,” Capt Bond said.

As for staffing, in general, Marine Safety has maintained the same number of people that are staffing the towers from 2017 to 2018, so that hasn’t changed, he said.

However, Marine Safety increases their staffing based on if there is high surf or a forecast of good weather, sun, and warm temperatures. Both the surf conditions and the sun usually draw more people to Laguna’s beaches, so staff is increased accordingly. 

Particularly in a swell event, more people go in when the water is warm and the sun is out.

“They don’t understand their limitations, they don’t have a good background or knowledge of the ocean and sometimes they get into predicaments that they’re not prepared to handle,” Capt Bond said. “So that’s why I believe the numbers are up because of those situations, not knowing their limitations, and not knowing the open water environment.”

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Photo by Scott Brashier

Warm weather and big swells draw big crowds to Laguna’s beaches 

To help prevent any water safety issue, it’s crucial to always swim in front of a lifeguard tower, know personal limitations in the water, and always swim with a friend.

“First, always check in with the lifeguard. They will be able to tell you or show you the update hazards that the beach can sometimes hold, so you make sure you know the current conditions,” Capt Bond said. “Because the beach and the ocean is an ever changing environment.”

Predominantly, Crescent Bay Beach and Treasure Island Beach have the most rescues due to their popularity and the geography of the beaches.

To find out about the conditions call Marine Safety at (949) 494-6573 or call dispatch to speak with a live dispatch officer at (949) 494-6571. The OC Health Care Agency website (www.ocbeachinfo.com/laguna) is also a helpful resource for up to the minute beach closures and safety warnings.

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Cloudbursts, chaos, and closures 

Photos by Mary Hurlbut

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Third St slippery – brakes don’t fail me now

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Temple Hills – A little red amidst the gray on Valentine’s Day

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Morning rush hour at PCH and Diamond

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Beach St closed at Ocean Ave because Broadway was closed

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Matt Rolfe honored as 2018 Firefighter of the Year 

LBFD Firefighter/Paramedic Matt Rolfe is being honored as the 2018 Firefighter of the Year at the Mission Viejo Elks Lodge on Saturday, Feb 16. 

Rolfe is a nine-year member of the Fire Department and was selected by his peers for this distinction. Rolfe started his career as a reserve firefighter in 2010 before moving through the organization as a sworn firefighter and firefighter paramedic. 

He is the leading IT technician for the Department’s new Electronic Patient Care Report (ePCR) program and solely provides this all-important training for Fire Department members. 

Courtesy of LBFD

LBFD’s Matt Rolfe will be honored as 2018 Firefighter of the Year

Rolfe is an active member of the social media team and a specialized member of the Laguna Beach Honor Guard Pipes and Drums. He will be acknowledged for all his hard work and dedication at the Annual Firefighters and Law Enforcement Appreciation Awards Dinner at the Mission Viejo Elks Lodge on Saturday, Feb 16 at 6 p.m.

A big congratulations to Rolfe for being honored 2018 Firefighter of the Year and much appreciation for all he does to keep our community safe.

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Mike Short honored as 2018 Officer of the Year

LBPD Officer Mike Short is being honored as the 2018 Police Officer of the Year at the Mission Viejo Elks Lodge on Saturday, Feb 16. Officer Short is a 14-year member of the department and was selected by his peers for this distinction. Short started his career as a summer beach patrol officer in 2005 before moving through the organization as a records specialist, police officer, field training officer, and founding member of the C.S.I. and drone teams. 

Courtesy of LBPD

LBPD’s Mike Should will be honored as 2018 Police Officer of the Year

Most recently, he has assumed the responsibilities of the Police Department hiring and training office. 

Short will be acknowledged for all his hard work and dedication at the Annual Firefighters and Law Enforcement Appreciation Awards Dinner at the Mission Viejo Elks Lodge on Saturday, Feb 16 at 6 p.m.

A big congratulations to Short for being honored 2018 Police Officer of the Year and much appreciation for all he does to keep the Laguna Beach community safe.

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Barbara’s Column

My Funny Valentine

By BARBARA DIAMOND

If you missed either of No Square Theatre’s production of “My Ridiculous Valentine,” it was your loss.

The cabaret, composed of love and lost love songs, was perfectly suited to the intimate setting at Legion Hall. Sly winks and asides from the cast to the audience just added to the fun.

“I am just sorry there were only two performances – it’s was that good,” said No Square board member Sande St. John.

The show was created and directed by No Square Theater founder Bree Burgess Rosen and 2019 Patriots Day Artist of the Year and pianist Roxanna Ward, who was joined on the stage by drummer David Pager.

Besides them, the cast included Eric Anderson, Rebecca Butkivich, Kelly Goldstein, Gary Greene, Rob Harryman, Pat Kollenda, Joe Lauderdale, Marc Marger, Kristen Matson, Claire Day McClung, Steve McIntosh and Ella Wyatt.

The show opened with Lauderdale wandering through the audience to the stage, dressed as a somewhat disheveled cupid, singing Stevens Sondheim’s “Love is in the Air.” 

All 14 cast members crowded onto the stage to perform their version of Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.”

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Cast performing “Crazy Little Thing Called Love”

Other tunes included “I Really, Really Love You,” subtitled “I’m a Stalker.” 

“Not every romance is pretty,” said Rosen. “But some are pretty funny.”

Should No Square decide to reprise the show next year, may I suggest ”One Alone” from “The Desert Song,” which could be spelled with two “s’s.”

The first act ended with Kollenda mugging her way through “I’m Tired,” from “Blazing Saddles,” along with Anderson, Marger and Harryman. 

Anderson had the last word, singing “I Will Always Love You,” and presenting a rose to his wife as he left the stage. 

In the audience on Saturday night: Leah Vasquez and her son, David, and daughter-in-law, Suzy; Ann and Charlie Quilter, major donors to No Square Theatre; Roger and Bridgette Englis; Richard Moore; Eve Loftsgard’ Molly Joseph and Dina Waters. 

Also: Carolyn and Dr. Thomas Bent; Dee and Jim Perry; Lula Buckle, 12, her mother, Laura, and grandmother, Lyn Kirkham. 

Lula, a performer in her native United Kingdom since she was three, most recently performed in No Square’s “Annie,” and also in the Pacific Symphony’s “King Arthur and the Legend of the Dragon,” at the Segerstrom Performing Arts Center.

John Weld – A life well-lived and well-loved

“The Remarkable Life of John Weld” is a documentary on the lives of John and Katy Wells, one-time owners of the Laguna News Post and residents in our town for more than 60 years.

Executive Producer Roger Jones could think of no better place to hold the premiere than Laguna Beach High School’s Artist Theater. It was a fundraiser for the Laguna Beach Historical Society.  .

“It was a sell-out,” said local historian Jane Janz, a member of the society. “We are so grateful for the donation.” 

Jones, the former owner of Villa Rockledge, introduced the film. The premiere is the only public showing of the film.

“It was a one-time shot for a charity,” said Jones. 

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Submitted photo

The Welds ran the Laguna News Post

But it will available on DVD at Walmart, on Amazon Prime and on Direct TV, Google Play, iTunes and Fandango, Jones said. 

The documentary was a 15-year project for Jones and his wife Sherill Bottjer.

His account of how it came about was printed in the Historical Society’s newsletter:

“In 1999, Laguna Beach resident Nancy Bushnell introduced my wife, Sherill, and me to John and Katy. Nancy had correctly thought, since John has authored a number of books and I had written a few, we might enjoy each other’s company. We became good friends.

“We traded some books and after reading John’s Fly Away Home, Memoirs of a Hollywood Stunt Man,” I was taken aback by the lives he and Katy had lived. I mentioned that I thought the public would be fascinated by Hollywood in its infancy and that I would like to work on the project.” 

The deal was sealed.

The Weld’s story covers John’s career as a stuntman in Hollywood, looking more like a “matinee idol” than the daredevil he was. He performed with stars such as John Barrymore, Charlie Chaplain, Laurel and Hardy, Tom Mix and Gloria Swanson. 

Later he switched to writing and was sent to Paris to cover the Lindbergh flight over the Atlantic. 

Weld spent several years in Paris hobnobbing with an international set that included Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Picasso.

He returned to Hollywood as a screenwriter for Columbia Studios, according to Jones. And it was at that time that he first laid eyes on a young, very beautiful and very married starlet at a party hosted by “Pancho” Barnes, at her home on the Simthcliffs Estate, owned by her grandmother. 

(A stunt pilot and a bit of a hellion, Barnes used to fly guests down to Laguna, landing on Smithcliffs, driving her grandmother up the walls.) 

It took John five years to convince “Gigi Parish,” as she was known on the screen, to become Katy Weld. 

Their romance continued till the day he died in 2003.

“To the end, he remained my darling John,” she was quoted in an obituary for the multi-talented, multi-faceted man to whom she was married for 67 years.

They moved to Laguna after they wed and bought the Laguna News Post, which they published from 1945 to 1965. 

Katy managed the newspaper while he wrote a weekly column that always ended with “Laguna, I Love You,” later the title of one of his 11 books, and illustrated by the late cartoonist Phil Interlandi.

But wait – there’s more. You will find advance notice of all the fun and interesting stuff for visitors or residents to do in Laguna by reading StuNewsLaguna.com. Contributions are welcomed.

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Where’s Maggi?

Thanks to Stu News reader Louise Thornton, Maggi eyed this sweet bike rack. So now she asks the rest of us, where is it?

Send your answers in to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The location will be revealed in Tuesday’s edition, and we’ll let you know who got it right.

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Laguna Beach named Tree City USA

The City of Laguna Beach is pleased to announce that it has been recognized as

a Tree City USA Community for the first year by the Arbor Day Foundation for 2018. 

The City achieved this recognition by meeting the required core standards of sound Urban Forestry Management: maintaining a tree board or department/division responsible for tree care, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Laguna’s beautiful trees stand out along the streets of downtown

“We are proud of this recognition and are happy to be among the communities that put emphasis on using best practices to maintain their urban forest,” said Mayor Bob Whalen.

Trees are assets to a community when properly planted and maintained. They help to improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants, and provide wildlife habitat, among many other benefits.

The Arbor Day Foundation in partnership sponsors the Tree City USA program with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

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Calling all Vietnam Veterans and other U.S. military service veterans to march in Patriots Day Parade

Local Vietnam Veterans have reserved a position (Entry #9) in this year’s Patriots Day Parade. The organizers are seeking Vietnam Veterans and other U.S. military service veterans interested in marching in the parade on Saturday, March 2. 

This group, South Orange County Vietnam Veterans, has participated in the Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade parade every year since 1985. All branches of the service are welcome, and the group is encouraging all U.S. service veterans – World War II, Korea, Cold War, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria – to participate and be recognized for their service.

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Veterans march in 2018 Patriots Day Parade

Veterans are encouraged to wear their uniforms (or parts thereof). The group will form near Laguna Beach High School, located at 625 Park Ave, between 9 and 10 a.m. 

The parade will cover about six blocks (all downhill or level) and will begin promptly at 11 a.m.  A convertible automobile will accompany the group and vets needing to ride, rather than march, may do so in the convertible. 

Parking is quite challenging, so arrive as early as possible to ensure a parking spot. Ask the check-in booth at the corner of Park and Short streets for specifics on where the group is forming, but most likely they will be in the school district parking lot across from Laguna Beach High School.

The group’s traditional annual get-together at Hennessey’s Tavern at 213 Ocean Ave will follow immediately. 

Interested veterans should contact Patrick Freeman at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (949) 497-7473.

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Laguna Beach Arts Alliance announces nominees for 13th Annual Art Star Awards

Laguna Beach Arts Alliance (LBAA) has announced the nominees for the 13th Annual Art Star Awards to be held on Sunday, April 7 at 6 p.m., generously sponsored by [seven-degrees].

At this red carpet event, the winners will be announced and presented with one-of-a-kind Art Star award sculptures, created by Louis Longi. These organizations, businesses, and individuals contributed to and shaped the arts and culture in Laguna Beach in 2018.

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Photo courtesy of LBAA

Winners at the Art Star Awards receive coveted sculpture trophies created by local sculptor Louis Longi

LBAA’s Chairperson, Rosemary Swimm, said, “The Laguna Beach Arts Community continues to be blessed with an abundance of programs and supporters of the arts, each and every one of them deserving of special recognition for all that they bring to our community and all that they do.” 

Nominations for LBAA’s 2019 Art Star Awards were overflowing with impressive programs and contributors to the arts making the award selection committee’s job almost an impossible one. Members of LBAA worked diligently to choose winners from the impressive list of nominees. 

LBAA will be introducing a new category to Art Star Awards this year – Volunteer of the Year.

“We may only be awarding one Volunteer of the Year award, but our heartfelt thanks go out to each and every one of our community’s volunteers and supporters of the arts,” said Swimm. 

Laguna Beach Arts Alliance will also honor artist Scott Moore with a special Art Star Award for Lifetime Achievement in recognition of his many accomplishments as an artist and contributions to the arts community in Laguna Beach.

The Art Stars categories and nominees are: 

Best Arts Program: Laguna Art Museum 100th Anniversary Celebration, Laguna Beach Live! 2018 Music Programming, and Laguna Playhouse 2018 Year-round Season.

Individual Arts Patron: William J. Gillespie, Riggie Horvath, and Carla and Jeff Meberg.

Corporate Arts Patron: Laguna Creative Ventures, Moulton Company/Jared Mathis, and National Charities League.

Outstanding Arts Collaboration: Festival of Arts Junior Art Exhibit, Festival of Mosaics – LOCA Arts Education, and Pageant of the Monsters – Festival of Arts/Pageant of the Masters.

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Photo by Scott Brashier

“Festival of Mosaics Committee” – (L-R) Pastor Rodrick Echols, Kristen Purll, Greg Rayes, Mike Tauber, and Susan Brown. Tauber is up for LBAA’s Art Star Arts Leadership Award.

Arts Leadership: Toni Kellenberg (Laguna Plein Air Painters Association), Marinta Skupin (Laguna Art Museum), and Mike Tauber (Festival of Mosaics).

Artist of the Year: Jason Feddy, April Raber, and Brittany Ryan.

Volunteer of the Year: M. Charlie Ferrazzi, Lindy Narver, and Sande St. John.

The 2019 Art Stars Award winners will be announced during the event. To purchase tickets to attend the 13th Annual Art Star Awards, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Tickets are $100 each and include dinner as well as all the festivities at [seven-degrees] at 891 Laguna Canyon Rd.

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Everyone loved Ernie

By DIANNE RUSSELL

According to his owner Helga Robinson, it seems that Ernie, her Golden Retriever, never met a stranger, whether it be human or canine. He brought happiness to everyone he encountered.

In her book Dog Songs, the poet Mary Oliver writes, “Because of the dog’s joyfulness, our own is increased. It is no small gift. It is not the least reason why we should honor as well as love the dog of our own life, and the dog down the street, and all the dogs not yet born. What would the world be like without music or rivers or the green and tender grass? What would this world be like without dogs?”

 Helga says, “My neighbors Dianne Reardon and John Campbell (husband and wife) came up with the idea of honoring Ernie, they loved him very much, as did everyone who knew him.”

“He was loyal, loving, fun, kind and faithful – I could fill the page. Ernie was fond of all children, homeless people, digging massive holes in the garden, running in the hills, splashing in the ocean and the forever ‘please throw another tennis ball.’ We are all saddened by his loss, even friends from Europe are sending their condolences to Helga,” says Dianne.

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Submitted photo

Ernie 

Although he originally had a different name, Ernie came from the Laguna Animal Shelter and started his relationship with Helga about 10 years ago. John knew Ernie from the time Helga adopted him, and Dianne says, “I met Ernie four years ago, and it was instant love – my Schnauzer Mina also adored him. She is mourning his loss as well, looking for him all the time.”

Helga says, “I adopted him from the local shelter in September of 2009. He was anywhere from one to two and a half years old as I was told, and his name then was Chaz which seemed totally inappropriate. After knowing him for a while, I came up with Ernie, which fit him perfectly. He was the sweetest dog, most loyal companion, loved to swim in the ocean with me, and he loved our morning walks through Heisler Park where all our dog friends carried treats, something he very quickly found out.”

Ernie was special in other ways as well. Although it didn’t seem to curtail his activities or outgoing personality, he was deaf and had been for years. 

“He especially loved the homeless and kids, and whenever dogs started to fight, he rushed over to lick them rather than join in the fight. He made lots of doggie friends,

small and large, and nibbled on them, a sign of endearment (according to Google),” says Helga.

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Helga and Ernie

“There was no hope when I took him to the emergency room last Saturday and an ultrasound of his chest revealed fluid around his heart...I knew right there and then that it meant the end.

“He had a wonderful day that day, a wonderful life, gave so much to so many and may have been, as a friend put it, ‘the greatest dog of all time’...I thought so. I will miss him terribly and so will many others.”

Also from her book, Poet Mary Oliver expresses in a short prose piece, what she considers the wretched elephant in every dog-lover’s room:

“Dogs die so soon. I have my stories of that grief, no doubt many of you do also. It is almost a failure of will, a failure of love, to let them grow old – or so it feels. We would do anything to keep them with us, and to keep them young. The one gift we cannot give.”

Yet, it appears Helga gave Ernie an abundance of gifts in his lifetime, and he returned them in full measure – to her and to everyone who knew him.

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Angels Baseball Foundation invests in Ocean Institute to provide children with an ocean of education

A leader in hands-on education in Orange County for more than forty years, Ocean Institute has been awarded a $7,000 grant from the Angels Baseball Foundation for its Adopt-A-Class program.

“Ocean Institute has a long-standing commitment to underserved children across Orange County by providing access to the ocean and to STEM-based, hands-on programs focused on the ocean and our local marine life. This is a program we feel very strongly about to inspire the next generation of ocean and environmental champions,” said Ocean Institute president and CEO Dan Pingaro. 

“Adopt-A-Class is the gateway for many children to experience the ocean for the first time and it is a profound, life-changing experience.”

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Courtesy of Ocean Institute

Ocean Institute invests in children across Orange County through their many programs

Ocean Institute has served over 18,000 children from Anaheim over the past five years and this grant from the Angels Baseball Foundation will sponsor students from Title I schools in Anaheim in the spring and fall of 2019 to participate in ocean science exploration and experiments on the 70-foot research vessel Sea Explorer, and in Ocean Institute’s waterfront science labs.

“The Angels Baseball Foundation is pleased to support the Ocean Institute and its Adopt-A-Class program,” said Angels Baseball Chairman Dennis Kuhl. “Assisting children and supporting educational endeavors are two of the primary focuses of the Foundation. The impact of Adopt-A-Class in both teaching and influencing children from within the Anaheim community is so important. The Ocean Institute has a long history of educating and inspiring. Our Foundation and the Angels Baseball family are proud to provide funding for these educational opportunities.”

“We are absolutely thrilled to establish this partnership with the Angels and the Angels Baseball Foundation to expand their incredible commitment to the education and wellbeing of less fortunate children,” stated Lee Samango Gottlieb, an Ocean Institute board member. “This is a homerun in terms of making a deep impact in the lives of Anaheim kids and I cannot wait to help host their visit to Ocean Institute.”

Ocean Institute is a nonprofit organization focused on ocean literacy. As an innovator in science and marine education, its mission is to use the ocean as the classroom to inspire children to learn.

For more information, visit www.ocean-institute.org.

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Kit-Lit Contest throws a spotlight on cats and creatives: Read the top three entries here

On Wednesday evening, cat-lovers of all stripes gathered at the Catmosphere Laguna Cat Café and Lounge to listen to the winners and finalists in the Kit-Lit Writing Contest read their work.

Prose and poetry were celebrated: the winning (hilarious) entry, A Letter from Magoo, written by Sarah Wolsey, imagined a cat’s puzzlement at the antics of its owner – “why do you work so hard to remove your whiskers?” the bemused Magoo wonders – and “whatever happened to your tail? Coyote?” he asks. 

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Winner Sarah Wolsey received a check for $100, lots of Catmosphere swag, and a lunch with Grant and Suzanne to discuss matters literary

Sassy first runner-up Kathy Hall read her poem Milo with great verve, and her performance – and poem – were wildly applauded by the audience.

Second runner-up Diane Dorman’s winning entry poignantly illustrated the honor that so many cat-lovers feel when a cat – especially a feral one – makes the choice to be with them, cats being the independent creatures that they are. 

A second entry of Diane’s, Hampton/My Unlikely Savior, was also a finalist (entries were anonymously judged). The piece was a moving meditation on the profound comfort her cat brought her when Diane underwent chemotherapy. 

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Diane Dorman was one of the top three winners and also placed as a finalist for her second piece

Grant Hier, Creative Writing Professor at LCAD and Poet Laureate of Anaheim, judged the contest, which was sponsored by the nonprofit Catmosphere Laguna Foundation. 

Gail Landau, founder of the foundation, thanked all the entrants. She also noted her gratitude to Grant for his meticulous judging and to Suzanne Redfearn, Laguna Literary Laureate, for her sterling support of the contest.

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(L-R) Kit-Lit team: Grant Hier, LCAD professor and judge; Gail Landau, owner of Catmosphere Laguna; Lynette Brasfield, who came up with the idea; and Suzanne Redfearn, Literary Laureate and number one supporter of the contest

Many who attended this lovely, inspiring event expressed the hope that the contest would become an annual event. The enthusiasm shared by all involved suggests that this will very likely be the case! It was simply a meow-valous event.

Finalists are listed below. 

Finalists

Finalists are listed below in alphabetical order:

Brian Barrett: “There Once was a Cat Name Fellini” 

Diane Dorman: “Hampton / My Unlikely Savior” 

Kerry Dunn: “Knowing” 

Sarah Durand: “Stan and Ollie” 

Victoria Kertz: “Orange is the new Cat” 

Theresa Keegan: “Jefferson” 

Sharon Kosco: “Catastrophe” 

Stephen Myer: “Rosemund” 

Sarah Nuss-Galles: “Old Cat, New House” Catmosphere Laguna is located at 381 Forest Ave. For more information, visit www.catmospherelaguna.comor call (949) 619-MEOW.

Catmosphere Laguna Foundation is a nonprofit whose mission is to place homeless cats and kittens in their “furrever” homes. The kitties are housed in a comfy, homey setting, full of fun toys, at the Catmosphere Laguna Café lounge while they wait to charm a future owner.

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Kit-Lit Catmosphere Laguna writing contest winners

First Place Winner

Sarah Wolsey

“A Letter from Magoo”

Dear Sarah, 

I’m writing this letter to clear up a few concerns that I have. Since we live together, I feel like it’s my responsibility to be honest with you. I’ve made many attempts to tell you these things face to face, but they seem to fall on deaf (and quite hairless) ears. I’m just going to come out and say it. You’re not a very accomplished cat and I’m seriously questioning our relationship. 

How many times have you walked past a pile of laundry? If you see it on the bed, please, for the love of all that is holy, lie down in it. Get IN there. Nuzzle into those unballed socks. Feel the warmth of the dryer lingering in those towels. ESPECIALLY if it’s in piles. Lean into those folded shirts. Knock them over. And, laundry baskets!!! How do you NOT jump INTO them?

Additionally, your grooming practices are horrendous. Your incessant need to get INTO the water is beyond distressing. At first I thought it was accidental – that you just kept falling in while getting a quick sip. Lord knows it’s happened to the best of us. But, every day? That’s no accident. Please just use your tongue. Have you ever even tried to lick your neck? And your whiskers! Why are you hell bent on removing them. Cats need whiskers. Why are you fighting who you are?

Aside from these worries, do you truly understand and believe that what’s mine is yours and what’s yours is mine? That’s the only way this relationship is going to work. That bird I brought home last week after I snuck out? That was for US. Yet, you showed me nothing but contempt. Maybe bird isn’t your favorite, I get that. However, you know I love what you bring home. Why do you never invite me to eat with you? I’m left to pick from your plate when you get up from the table. It’s beyond demeaning. 

I’ll be honest, you give amazing back scratches and you’re an incredible cuddler. But sometimes when I need you most, you just push me away. You LITERALLY push me away. It’s as if you don’t want me to dance between your legs when you walk in the door. You only want affection on your time table. Do you know how much that hurts?

What it comes down to is that I’m really not clear as to why you think you are so high and mighty. Sure you’re quite tall and you’ve mastered opening the door. I know I’m not as worldly as you – I’m confined to this house while you dilly dally in and out as you please. Rest assured, this is not about your lack of fur or tail. I don’t want you to ever be self-conscious about that. You are who you are and I accept you for that. But, if we’re going to make this relationship work, we need to be honest with each other. I know I can’t force you to face any of these truths. However, your lack of effort truly makes me question your commitment to being feline and, more importantly, to me. 

Forever Yours,

Magoo

P.S. Seriously though – what happened to your tail?  Coyote?

Second Place Winner

Kathy Hall

“Luna”

Luna, obsidian 

Femme fatale,

Woke me at seven in the morning, even on Sundays.

Stood on my chest and insisted loudly 

Down into my face 

That she be fed.

Nipped at my husband’s heels.

He considered this unfair.

But they only claim one person. 

The rest are in the way.

When company came, we said, quite clearly,

“Do not pet her. She bites.”

And she would pad softly over 

To leap onto my lap.

She was not a dog,

And I was not her master.

As I pet her, 

As she purred and rolled,

Her eyes looked bashful.

She would gaze at the visitors, Playfully, longingly.

She would stretch gracefully, gorgeously.

They always said, “She is so beautiful.” 

Which was true.

They always said, “Cats like me,”

Which was not

And never is.

They always reached forth their hands. 

They could not help themselves.

Neither could she.

I fetched bandages and disinfectant,

Rinsed blood stains from their shirtsleeves.

As Luna preened herself,

Evidently unaware,

Cruel and innocent,

Red in tooth and claw.

Third Place Winner

Diane Dorman

“Milo”

Sometimes love walks 

through your door on four feet.

The stray you shouldn’t keep

and the phones ringing again

“Is that your cat, looks like Morris

he bit my leg,” Another 

“He’s sleeping on our master bed!”

“He boxed me on the head 

from the roof of my car!”

“He struts past the window 

leaving my Persians howling.”

Milo the unfixed tom, 

trying to escape out the chimney

So I open the back door

sit there watching TV until midnight 

When I see his lion head peeking 

there is a blip in my heart 

I pretend not to notice 

don’t call or even make eye contact

when he curls up on my lap 

it means more that he is mine 

with the back door open.

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History made as first BSA troop for girls chartered to Laguna Presbyterian Church

A new mark was made in the 75-year history of Scouting in Laguna Beach on Sunday when ten girls received the city’s first charter for a troop for girls from the Boy Scouts of America.

The girls all have the aim of becoming Eagle Scouts – among the first females who will reach this accomplishment in the movement’s 109-year history.

The troop of girls will share the Troop 35 number with the 75-year-old troop of boys, also chartered to Laguna Presbyterian Church, but programming, meetings, and camping will be separate, as guided by the program of the parent organization, the Boy Scouts of America.

Click on photo for a larger image 

Submitted photo

(L-R) Pam Jensen Troop, committee chair, Hane Heath, scoutmaster for girls, John Hovanesian, assistant scout master for girls, May Chapman, Chloe Duong, Isabel Griffin, Ani Hovanesian, Anneka Neukomm, Alexandra Keyser, Elizabeth Keyser, and Julie Anderson, in charge of family scouting for OC Council of BSA

“Since I was little, I saw my brothers having so much fun going camping, doing archery, and climbing rock walls, and now, I can do the same and work my way toward becoming an Eagle Scout, just like my older brother,” said Ani Hovanesian, one of the new Scouts. 

She and her nine fellow Scouts will take their first official Scout camping trip on March 14 in the Cleveland National Forest.

Boys and girls from kindergarten through age 17 may join Scouts BSA. To learn more about Scouting in Laguna Beach, visit www.lagunabeach35.mytroop.us for boys and girls aged 11-17 and www.lagunabeach35.mypack.us for boys and girls in kindergarten through 5th grade.

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Wild jungle waterfall 

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Tony Zentil

No, this is not where Jurassic Park was filmed, it’s looking north from LCAD at 10 a.m. on Thursday morning

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MacGillivray Freeman Films’ Great Bear Rainforest opens this week, garners stellar reviews

Local Laguna filmmaker and distributor MacGillivray Freeman Films and Byron Horner, executive producer and president of Spirit Bear Entertainment, are excited o present their newest film, Great Bear Rainforest, as narrated by Ryan Reynolds. The film, which premiered this week, is a visually stunning journey to one of the wildest places on Earth. 

Starting with the world premiere at Vancouver’s TELUS World of Science, the film now rollout globally. With spirit bears, grizzlies, black bears, wolves, otters, humpbacks and yes, even herring, there is something for everyone to growl and howl about!   

The movie is set in one of the most exquisite and secluded wildernesses on the planet. Academy Award®-winning composer Hans Zimmer and Bleeding Fingers Music score the film, which takes audiences into a hidden world of beauty and grandeur and on a visually stunning journey to one of the last wild places on earth. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of Jackmont via Wikipedia

The Kermode (Spirit Bear) is featured in Great Bear Rainforest

Hidden from the outside world, Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest is home to an immense array of wildlife, including the fabled all-white spirit bear – the rarest bear on earth – and the indigenous First Nations, who have provided stewardship of the forest for millennia.

“When we first saw some initial footage of Great Bear Rainforest, we were absolutely captivated by the visuals and knew this was a story that must be told on the giant screen,” saidShaun MacGillivray, president of MacGillivray Freeman Films. “There is no more powerful format for showcasing the extraordinary beauty of this ancient rainforest.” 

Featuring three First Nations’ youth sharing in their own voices their intergenerational conservation efforts, Great Bear Rainforest represents two firsts. This is the first giant screen film for IMAX theatres shot exclusively in British Columbia and the first to feature indigenous peoples in Canada,” shares Executive Producer Byron Horner.

Director Ian McAllister and producer Jeff Turner and their crews spent three years filming throughout the remote reaches of the Great Bear Rainforest. From the underwater ocean world, through the salmon river valleys to the ice-capped peaks of the Coast Mountains, their unprecedented close-up footage of the spirit bear, along with stunning shots of the forest’s coastal wolves, grizzlies, sea otters, humpback whales, sea lions, salmon, and the annual herring spawn, will thrill audiences who may not even know that such a world exists. 

Laguna-based MacGillivray Freeman Films is the world’s foremost independent producer and distributor of giant-screen 70mm films with 40 films for IMAX and giant-screen theatres to its credit. Throughout the company’s 50-year history, its films have won numerous international awards including two Academy Award^® nominations and three films inducted into the IMAX Hall of Fame.

For more information, go to www.greatbearrainforestfilm.com.

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Feeling Your Feelings: Two Different Scenarios

By Vidya Reddy

Welcome to the Happiness corner, I’m going to begin by presenting you two different scenarios that may seem similar, but that have very different outcomes, which I will explain. 

Scenario One

You wake up in the morning and you remember a business call with a difficult client you have later that day. You are immediately filled with dread and your Monger is talking a mile a minute. You tell yourself, “change your thoughts, think positive, it will be fine.” And every time the feeling of dread comes up, you tell yourself to change your thought. 

So all day long you are pushing the feeling under the surface, ignoring the dread and pretending it isn’t there. By the time the phone call comes around you might be feeling pretty good. In fact, you write at the top of your paper “You got this! No one can get you down!” The phone call comes and goes and although the client was still belittling and you barely got through it without bursting into tears, you got through it! You are quickly on to the next thing and already worrying about what to have for dinner.

Scenario Two

You wake up in the morning and you remember a business call later that day with a difficult client. You are immediately filled with dread and your Monger is talking a mile a minute. Hmm, what’s that about you wonder? And you ask yourself to just label what you are feeling. You are feeling insecure and nervous. You remember that the last time you had this call with this client, it didn’t go well, and he was particularly harsh with you. 

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Photo by Pieter Baetens

Dr. Vidya Reddy

When you arrive at work you start brainstorming how you can help it go better. You know you are 100 percent prepared for the meeting, so it isn’t your lack of preparation, it is the client’s tone and communication style. You put a post-it note on your computer that says, “He will be harsh. It is not about you” to hopefully remind yourself that it isn’t about you he is just harsh. 

When you hang up the phone, you don’t burst into tears, but instead you still feel like something was missing. The client was particularly belittling and the post-it note helped but it wasn’t enough. On your way home you re-hash the conversation and you remember it went off the rails when he asked for more details. He is such a detail person and you just don’t think like that. So you decide to ask a co-worker to help you drill down on the details. Maybe that will help for next time? You will have more and better answers, and the sticky note will remind you it isn’t about you.

As you can see, similar situations, yet two different outcomes. The difference is that in scenario two you are more present to the whole situation, you are present to your thoughts, feelings, and actions and you are present to your client’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. You are engaged in your life. You recognize there is no perfect right way and this process is done by trial and error and can get messy. But your overall goal for your life is to be as present and engaged as possible.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Pieter Baetens

Overall goal for life is to be present

In scenario one, you are just surviving life. You move through life, trying not to get snagged by uncomfortable feelings and white knuckling it through unpleasant situations. You aren’t trying to find a resolution, and you aren’t diving any deeper than necessary.

Both scenarios work, but my preference goes to scenario two, because scenario two allows you to engage fully in your life. I believe that diving deep into our lives is what living happier is all about, and I know that one day you might do scenario one and one day you might do scenario two. There isn’t a 100 percent right way. There might be times in your life when all you have time for is scenario one, and there might be times when you can dive into scenario two. That’s the human experience. 

My wish for you is that you start thinking about these two scenarios and be a little curious, asking:

Which scenario do you engage in more often? Do you wish to engage differently?

How would you change your life so scenario two happens more often?

What changes would you have to make? How hard are those changes?

What are some baby steps you can take to add more of scenario two to your life?

Think about it and see how quickly your entire life experience will change in a very positive way. 

In Peace, Love and Gratitude. 

Til next time.

Dr. Vidya Reddy, ND, AMS, DAC, CLC

www.Naturally-Happy.com

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Three Lagunans honored at OC Taxpayers Association Luncheon for protecting taxpayer funds

The OC Taxpayers Association recently held its annual luncheon showcasing the State of the County report. The event, held at the Center Club in Costa Mesa, was attended by Eric Woolery, OC Auditor/Controller, and new District Attorney Todd Spitzer, as well as many city council members from neighboring cities.

Honorees from Laguna Beach included Jennifer Zeiter of STOP, Emil Monda, president of the LBGOP, and David Ruben.

Each was presented with a Watchdog Award Certificate for demonstrating dedication to the protection of taxpayer funds and for the advocacy of government transparency and fiscal responsibility. 

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Submitted photo

(L-R) DA Todd Spitzer, Jennifer Zeiter, Emil Monda, David Ruben, Eric Woolsey (OC Auditor Controller) and Carolyn Cavecche, president of OCTA.

The honorees were also presented with OC Taxpayer Watchdog pins with Jameson the Bulldog, official mascot of the Office of the Orange County Auditor/Controller. 

At the luncheon, newly elected District Attorney Todd Spitzer was presented with the Taxpayer Watchdog of the Year Award for his commitment to keeping Orange County fiscally responsible and transparent. 

The awards were presented by Auditor/Controller Eric Woolery and Carolyn Cavecche, president of OCTA.

Also at the event, Woolery gave a review of the CAFR (Comprehensive Annual Financial Report) for the County for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2018, which the OC Taxpayers Association calls the “Citizens’ Report” to keep our County fiscally accountable. 

OCTA is the official taxpayers’ watchdog of Orange County.

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Laguna Craft Guild holds Art Show on Sunday at Main Beach

This Sunday, Feb 10, from 9 a.m. - sundown, the Laguna Craft Guild will hold an Art Show at Main Beach featuring local artists. There are always many treasures to be found at the show, you really never know what you’ll find. 

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Submitted photo

Stop by the Main Beach cobblestones on Sunday for local handmade goods

Laguna Craft Guild is a small group of local Laguna Beach artists that sell their handmade goods on the cobblestones at Main Beach one to two times a month. Many of them are also Sawdust Festival artists.

The show is very special and a fun way to spend a Sunday strolling along the boardwalk with friends, family, and pets while gazing at the ocean. The Art Show is kind of like looking for that perfect seashell along the shoreline. 

For more information, visit www.lagunacraftguild.org or follow on Instagram at @lagunacraftguild.

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LAM Film Night to feature In a Lonely Place Feb 21

Laguna Art Museum will present “In a Lonely Place” on Thursday, Feb 21 at 6 p.m. as part of its Film Night series. Curator Janet Blake will introduce the classic film noir starring Humphrey Bogart.

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Courtesy of lagunaartmuseum.org

Don’t be lonely, grab a date and enjoy “In a Lonely Place” at LAM

According to a synopsis by Rod Crawford for IMBD, “Screenwriter Dixon Steele, faced with the odious task of scripting a trashy bestseller, has hat-check girl Mildred Atkinson tell him the story in her own words. Later that night, Mildred is murdered and Steele is a prime suspect; his record of belligerence when angry and his macabre sense of humor tell against him. Fortunately, lovely neighbor Laurel Gray gives him an alibi. Laurel proves to be just what Steele needed, and their friendship ripens into love. Will suspicion, doubt, and Steele’s inner demons come between them?”

Laguna Art Museum is located at 307 Cliff Dr. For more information and tickets, call (949) 494-8971 or visit www.lagunaartmuseum.org.

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PMMC announces development of new app, Seal Spotter

Pacific Marine Mammal Center is excited to announce that through a 10-week collaboration with engineering students at the UCI Department of Informatics, the nonprofit has successfully developed and launched a new application called Seal Spotter. 

This app, which is available on both android and iOS platforms, will allow users to take and upload pictures as well as answer questions about tagged animals that have been spotted in the wild. This will give PMMC a greater ability to track patients from any rehabilitation center and keep tabs on their success after release. 

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Submitted photo

New Seal Spotter app will help PMMC track seals after they are released back into the wild

This project is a fantastic example of accomplishing both research and conservation together. It allowed the UCI students to apply their theoretical learning in a real world scenario as part of their curriculum, while allowing PMMC to develop new technology on a meager budget through the talent and ingenuity of the students. 

Not only will the app be beneficial to the students’ resumes and help PMMC extend its’ research efforts, it also has features that allow users to learn about marine mammal life history and conservation. 

The application can be downloaded from both the Google Play and iTunes stores.

PMMC offers a special thank you to all of the hard work done by the Seal Spotter team: Lisa Joseph, Ben Truong, Matt Marano, William Khaine, Lizzy Thorpe, Emily Navarro, Colby Hollabaugh, Kirsten Donald, and Keith Matassa.

Pacific Marine Mammal Center rescues, rehabilitates, and releases marine mammals. PMMC inspires ocean stewardship through research, education, and collaboration. For more information, visit www.pacificmmc.org. 

Pacific Marine Mammal Center is at 20612 Laguna Canyon Rd, one block north of Dog Park.

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Rattlesnake Avoidance Training Workshops for dogs offered through city; spring is coming, be prepared

Spring is coming, and along with it, the presence of rattlesnakes. Now is the perfect time to protect dogs from being bitten by taking a Rattlesnake Avoidance Training Workshop, offered through the city on Saturday, Feb 23 and Saturday, March 16 at the Dog Park. 

Local “Animaltarian” CeCe Card, who been featured on Animal Planet several times with her cat Aragon aka Lord Tubbington from Glee, reports that during the workshop, dogs will learn the sight, sound and smell of rattlesnakes, with emphasis on smell. “Five rattlesnakes are used in this class, with their venom removed and their mouths double-muzzled,” says Card.

Participants should wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and bring a high-energy reward, toy or treat. Owner participation is required and children are welcome with adult supervision. There will be one per class time.

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Submitted photo

Rattlesnakes during workshop

“Sandy Thornton worked really hard at convincing the city we need this event in our community. We all love dogs and the threat of rattlesnakes in our hills are concerning. The workshop is extremely effective not only for the dog but the dog owner as well,” says CeCe. 

“Suzanne [Sandy Thornton’s daughter] has worked with Rusty (who runs the workshops) for over 10 years. Rusty has been coming to the Dana Point area to hold this powerful event for years…with Snake Avoidance Training the dog learns to avoid the snake through smell, sight, and sound. This is how we avoid the dangers of the bite.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Boomer attending a workshop

Waymond “Rusty” Debreceni made his beginnings in this industry with his love of the outdoors over 20 years ago. He is an avid hunter. Upon seeing the devastation a rattlesnake bite can bring to a dog, he decided that he needed to learn everything he could about the rattlesnake aversion training process. He started training with Patrick Callahan and Linda Nunez of Gameland Kennels in Norco, CA. He is constantly thinking about how he can serve his clients better with training in natural realistic settings. 

Rusty tailors the training to each dog and its owner. His main concern has been and will continue to be the safety and welfare of the dog and owner. He has trained K-9 dogs for the County of Los Angeles FEMA USAID/OFDA and Fontana Police Department K-9 Unit.

The workshops will be held on February 23 and March 16 every half hour from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the dog park. The cost is $125. Enroll at https://secure.rec1.com/CA/city-of-laguna-beach/catalog/index.

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PMMC’s Camp Pinniped offers unique experience for young campers eight to 13 years of age

Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC) has the perfect experience for budding veterinarians, scientists, and animal lovers ages 8 - 13: Camp Pinniped. The summer camp gives youngsters the opportunity to witness a marine mammal hospital in action. Campers learn how the animal care team rehabilitates their seal and sea lion patients through a series of mock activities including weighing fish, preparing fish smoothies, cleaning pens, and learning the art of marine mammal rescue. 

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Courtesy of PMMC

Campers learn procedures used in treating marine mammals

In order to provide a well-rounded study of the ocean environment, each day has a different theme that is creatively reinforced through hands-on activities, science labs, and crafts. Campers leave empowered with ways they can help protect and preserve our oceans. Every summer has new content so that returning campers keep on learning. 

Camp hours are Monday through Thursday at PMMC from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Friday at an offsite location TBD.

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Courtesy of PMMC

Attendees weigh and prepare food for the marine mammals

Monday - Thursday drop-off will be at 9 a.m. and pick-up at 3:30 p.m. Participants should enter through the visitors’ gate and wait in the outdoor viewing area.

Friday drop-off is at 8:30 a.m. and pick-up at 11 a.m. at an offsite location TBD.

PMMC will be offering an optional extended day care program before and after the regular summer camp hours (except on Fridays).

Extended day car program hours are (Monday - Thursday):

Drop-off: 8:15 a.m. for an additional fee of $7 a day per child

Pick-up: 4:15 p.m. for an additional fee of $7 a day per child

The cost of one week of enrollment in Camp Pinniped (not including extended day care before and after camp sessions) is $350 per camper.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of PMMC

Mock rescue

June camp dates are: June 10 - June 14, June 17 - June 21, and June 24 - June 28.

July camp dates are: July 1 - July 5, July 8 - July 12, July 15 - July 19, July 22 - July 26, and July 29 - August 2.

August camp dates are August 5 - August 9 and August 12 - August 16.

PMMC is located at 20612 Laguna Canyon Rd.

For more information and to register, go to www.pacificmmc.org or call (949) 494-3050.

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City Manage’s Updates

Laguna Beach Named Tree City USA – the Arbor Day Foundation has recognized the City of Laguna Beach as a first year Tree City USA Community for 2018. The City achieved this recognition by meeting the required core standards of sound Urban Forestry Management: maintaining a tree board or department/division responsible for tree care, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. 

The Arbor Day Foundation in partnership sponsors the Tree City USA program with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Laguna has been recognized as a Tree City USA

Holiday Street Sweeping Schedule – On Monday, Feb 18, street sweeping and parking enforcement will only occur in commercial areas. 

For more information, contact Senior Fleet Maintenance Supervisor Austin Comp at (949) 464-6637.

Holiday Transit Service – On Monday, Feb 18, the City will be providing regular neighborhood trolley services in the Top of the World, Bluebird Canyon, Arch Beach Heights, and North and South Laguna neighborhoods from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.lagunabeachcity.net/trolley. 

City Committee Opening – The City Council is accepting applications to fill one seat on the Heritage Committee. Interviews and appointments will be conducted on Tuesday, March 19 at 6 p.m. by the City Council in the City Council Chambers, 505 Forest Ave.

Laguna Beach residents who are interested in serving on the Heritage Committee should obtain an application from the City Clerk’s office or online at www.lagunabeachcity.net and file by Tuesday, March 5 at 5 p.m. 

Questions may be directed to the City Clerk’s office at (949) 497-0705. Applications will not be accepted after the March 5 deadline. 

Officer Mike Short is being honored – Mike Short is being honored as the 2018 Police Officer of the Year at the Mission Viejo Elks Lodge. Officer Short is a 14-year member of the department and was selected by his peers for this distinction. Mike Short started his career as a summer Beach Patrol Officer in 2005 before moving through the organization as a records specialist, police officer, field-training officer and founding member of the C.S.I. and drone teams. 

Most recently, he has assumed the responsibilities of the Police Department hiring and training office.  Mike will be acknowledged for all his hard work and dedication at the Annual Firefighters and Law Enforcement Appreciation Awards Dinner at the Mission Viejo Elks Lodge on Saturday, February 16 at 6 p.m. 

Firefighter/Paramedic Matt Rolfe is being honored – Matt Rolfe is being honored as the 2018 Firefighter of the Year at the Mission Viejo Elks Lodge. FF/PM Rolfe is a 9-year member of the Fire Department and was selected by his peers for this distinction. 

Matt Rolfe started his career as a Reserve Firefighter in 2010 before moving through the organization as a sworn Firefighter and Firefighter Paramedic. Matt is the leading IT technician for the Department’s new Electronic Patient Care Report (ePCR) program and solely provides this all-important training for the Fire Department members. 

He is an active member of the Social Media team and a specialized member of the Laguna Beach Honor Guard Pipes and Drums. Matt will be acknowledged for all his hard work and dedication at the Annual Firefighters and Law Enforcement Appreciation Awards Dinner at the Mission Viejo Elks Lodge on Saturday, February 16 at 6 p.m. 

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Submitted photo

Firefighter Paramedic Matt Rolfe is Laguna’s 2018 Firefighter of the Year

Southern California Gas Company Concrete Repair – On Tuesday, Feb 19, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Southern California Gas Company’s contractor will be reconstructing a concrete sidewalk associated with a previous emergency gas line leak repair near 2425 S Coast Hwy.

The southbound lane closest to the curb on S Coast Hwy will be closed for approximately 500 feet north of the S Coast Hwy/Upland Rd intersection. 

For questions or concerns, contact the Gas Company’s project coordinator Jorge Hernandez at (714) 989-5147.

Third Street Hill Tree Trimming – On Wednesday, Feb 20, the City trees on Third Street hill will be trimmed. To accommodate the work, Third Street will be closed in both directions between Mermaid Street and Park Avenue from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

For questions, call Deputy Director of Public Works Dale Schuck at (949) 497-0735.

Friday Flicks at the Forum – On March 1, Friday Flicks continues with The Gospel According to André (2017) at the Forum Theater, located at Festival of Arts, 650 Laguna Canyon Rd. The film is an emotional and intimate portrait of influential fashionista André Leon Talley and is rated PG-13. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the film screening starts at 7 p.m. 

This event is free and is funded by Laguna Beach residents Mark Porterfield and Steve Chadima. For more information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Police Explorer Graduation – On Monday, Feb 18, three Laguna Beach Police Department Explorers will be graduating from the Orange County Explorer Academy. The academy is a 5-day, intense training program, which includes drills, physical fitness, and academic training on topics such as K-9 teams, bomb squad, air support, DUI Investigation, gang enforcement, criminal law, and SWAT. 

Congratulations to Police Explorers Marianne Chehayeb, Sirene Chehayeb, and Emily Lopez for their achievement.

Free Weekend Parking and Trolley at ACT V (Lot 16) – Park for free on the weekends at ACT V (Lot 16) and take the trolley to Downtown, the beach, and the Farmers’ Market. 

There are limited stops on this route, which includes the ACT V parking lot, Beach Street and Forest Ave. Service will run every 20 minutes.  For more information, visit www.lagunabeachcity.net/parking or call (949) 497-0766.

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