Laguna Fitness’s Cora Kasperski believes that  tough love works

Story by SAMANTHA WASHER

Photos by Mary Hurlbut

Cora Kasperski is undoubtedly her business’s best advertisement. As owner of Laguna Fitness, Kasperski embodies everything she preaches to her clients – times ten. She started Laguna Fitness almost on a whim. Last week she celebrated her business’s new space at 1999 South Coast Highway (just down the street from the old space) and 15 years of helping people reach their fitness goals.

Working out for herself as well as helping others

Kasperski, a native of the Philippines, came to Laguna 15 years ago via San Diego when she and her first husband got engaged. Kasperski took over a personal training business that was closing and she has been up at the crack of dawn training clients ever since. Kasperski’s days have gotten even longer in the past year since she started competing in body building contests. This has her up at 4:15, three mornings a week so she can tend to her own fitness routine which is, needless to say, intense.

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Cora Kasperski, owner of Laguna Fitness, in her studio

Motivated to compete

While acknowledging she has always worked out, Kasperski credits her first husband who was a Marine and her best friend from the Philippines for prompting her to reach the next level of fitness. “My friend competed. She had muscles. It was attractive, being fit and healthy. I just like that look,” she says of her motivation. She competed in her first contest at age 28 and came away with the first of her three Best-in-Class Championships. The next two would arrive 22 years later when Kasperski decided to start competing again at 50.

Committed to winning

Such a decision is not taken on lightly. To look like Kasperski and, especially to win like Kasperski, is not a part-time thing. To prepare for a competition means Kasperski goes on a 90-day plan with her coach. “He helps a lot,” she says emphatically. It’s somewhat encouraging to know that even the most disciplined people can use a little extra help in attaining their goals. 

Organization and discipline in addition to the work outs

For these 90-day periods Kasperski wakes up in the dark for her cardio-walk and then spends five hours, three days a week working out in her gym. She works clients in around her workout. She eats six to seven times a day and spends Sunday cooking an entire week’s worth of food. As her husband Clay marvels, “The organization and discipline needed for this is even harder than the working out.” 

Closing in on a goal

Kasperski’s discipline is impressive. She competed three times last year and has a competition coming up in July. That’s 360 days dedicated to this very intensive regime. No sugar, no alcohol, every food measured; clearly, Kasperski is not just competing for the fun of it. She has lofty ambitions. “My goal is to win the overall competition,” she says. 

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Cora Kasperski at work with a private client

This means winning each of three divisions in her particular category, which is called “Figure.” There are four categories: Bikini, Figure, Physique and Body Builder, with each category getting a bit more muscular. The Body Builder category would be the most muscular. Each category has age divisions (i.e. 35+ years, 40+ years) so Kasperski has to compete against women who are considerably younger. At her last competition in December Kasperski achieved first place in two divisions and then a third place. She just missed out on winning the overall competition, but it’s very much in her sights. 

A loyal clientele sees results

Her commitment to her goals is obviously an inspiration to her clients. When we met at her studio one of her clients was there working out, and he couldn’t help but offer his unsolicited praise of Kasperski. He’d been working out with her for three months, had lost 20 lbs. and gained muscle. His enthusiasm was infectious. His devotion to Kasperski and her methods was very apparent.

Tough but not mean

Kasperski’s husband also sings her praises as a trainer. He would know. Before he married her he, too, was a client. Kasperski says she fired him as a client once they got serious. “I had to because it’s not good if I’m telling him what to do all the time,” she says laughing. 

And while Kasperski has a very bubbly personality, apparently she’s not all sweetness and light when she’s training someone. “Cora is very motivating,” explains Clay, her husband. “She doesn’t baby you; she challenges you.” He goes on to explain that both men and women, (her clients are about 50 percent male and 50 percent female) appreciate her toughness. “Some women have been treated delicately before they get here. They like it that she’s tough…but she’s not mean,” he adds emphatically.  Kasperski says she’s a believer in “tough love” for her clients. Is she complimentary? “If they deserve it,” she says smiling.

15 years in business is a result of being attentive

Her approach must be working. Laguna Beach has more than a few personal trainers and Kasperski has managed to stay in business – and even grow her business – over the past 15 years. Her secret is pretty simple: “When I train people I’m with them. I give them a little touch. It’s a small thing, but it lets you know somebody’s there for you. I’m very attentive.” 

She’s so attentive that she texts her clients what to eat daily and does a general check-in with them. If they’ve been over-indulging, she has no problem calling them out. She also has no problem calling them out if they’re not focused during training. One of her catchphrases around the studio is “Just listen!” She gets serious for a moment. “It’s so annoying when they don’t listen,” she says with exasperation, then smiles broadly. It’s very clear that if you’re in her gym, you’re not messing around.

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Cora Kasperski with husband Clay in Laguna Fitness’s new space

A former pro seeks out her help

With a very full calendar, Kasperski is pretty much maxed out right now. “I don’t know if I want to get any busier,” she says. “Maybe someday I’ll read a magazine,” she says doubtfully. One thing she would like to make time for is working with older people. “I love old people,” she says. She gives away a lot of her time for charity events and even offers a free Booty class on Sundays (call for availability). She did take on a new client recently and she couldn’t be more excited. “Sean Ray was a top body builder, top five in the world for ten years in a row. He came to my open house and said, ‘I think you can help me.’ He’s been on the couch for a while now,” she says laughing.

A trainer, a competitor and a matchmaker

While her goal is to help her clients reach their goals, be they former professional body builders or just people wanting to look and feel better, Kasperski offers another service that doesn’t come standard with most personal trainers. “I’m a matchmaker,” she says proudly. Apparently, she’s a successful one, at least according to her clients. The exact number of couples matched was up for debate, but like everything Kasperski does, the number was more than you’d expect.

The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey shines

as season finale at Laguna Playhouse, June 11 – 25 

Laguna Playhouse announces the sixth and final show in the Laguna Playhouse 2016-2017 season, The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey, written and performed by James Lecesne, with music by Duncan Sheik (Spring Awakening) and directed by Tony Speciale. It opens on June 11 and runs through June 25. 

When a 14-year-old boy goes missing in a small New Jersey town, his disappearance is illuminated by memories of his brilliant spirit. This one-man show, written and staring Academy-award winner James Lecesne, tells the story of a young boy who had touched the hearts of his community during his short by richly colorful life. Teens and adults alike will be inspired by this uplifting story about humanity and the dignity of life.

“We are closing our season with one of the most moving and inspirational shows of the year,” comments Laguna Playhouse Executive Director Ellen Richard.  Adds Artistic Director Ann E. Wareham, “James Lecesne, founder of “The Trevor Project” is simply stunning in this extraordinary piece of theatre. This is by far the not-to-be-missed play of our season.” 

James Lecesne (Playwright, Performer) wrote the short film “Trevor,” which won the 1995 Academy Award for Best Live Action Short and inspired the founding of The Trevor Project, the only nationwide 24-hour suicide prevention and crisis intervention Lifeline for LGBT and Questioning youth. He created “The Road Home Stories of Children of War,” which was presented at the International Peace Initiative at The Hague.  He adapted Armistead Maupin’s “Further Tales of The City” for Showtime (Emmy nom), and was a writer on the series “Will & Grace.”  

 Tony Speciale (Director) is the founder of Plastic Theatre, conceiving, co-authoring and directing the world premiere of The Secret Court (formerly Unnatural Acts; Drama Desk nominee, GLAAD Media Award nominee). NYC: The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey (The Dixon Place); A Midsummer Night’s Dream featuring Bebe Neuwirth, Christina Ricci and Taylor Mac (Classic Stage Company); Handbook for an American Revolutionary (The Gym at Judson); and Remembering Mr. Maugham (Clurman Theatre). 

Full credits for James Lecesne and Tony Speciale are listed on the LP website. 

The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey features the following design team; Scenic Design - Jo Winiarski, Lighting Design - Matt Richards, Sound Design - Christian Frederickson, Costume Design - Paul Marlow, Projection Design - Aaron Rhyne, and Production Stage Manager - Jana Llynn.

The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey will begin previews on Wed, June 7; and opens on Sun, June 11, at 5:30 p.m. and will run through Sun, June 25, at the Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Rd. Performances will be Wed through Sat at 7:30 p.m.; Thurs and Sat at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Sun at 1 p.m. 

Due to the generosity of Suzanne and James Mellor and The Mellor Fund, tickets for all theatergoers 21 and under will be admitted for free.  ID required.

Tickets range from $60 - $65 and can be purchased online at http://www.lagunaplayhouse.com/ or by calling (949) 497-ARTS (2787). Group discounts are available by calling 949-497-2787 ext. 229.  Prices subject to change.

The box office is open Mon – Sat: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. (open until show time on performance days); Sun: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.  For more information on all shows and programming, visit website above.

Hal Linden joins Tesla cast at Laguna Playhouse for performances on May 26-28

Laguna Playhouse announces that Hal Linden will join Gregory Harrison, Dan Lauria, Charles Shaughnessy, French Stewart, and Vanessa Stewart for the performances of Tesla on May 26-28. 

The story of Nikola Tesla’s life, as an inventor and futurist during the late-19th and first half of the 20th century, is recounted in a series of rapid-fire scenes intended to be performed as a radio play with multiple voices and Foley sound effects before a live audience. 

Hal Linden, star of screen and stage, joins Tesla cast

Hal Linden is an American born stage and screen actor, most recognizable for his television role in Barney Miller. 

All ticket holders are welcome to attend post-show discussions with the writer, Dan Duling, on Fri, May 26, after the 7:30 performance and on Sat, May 27, after the 2 p.m. performance. 

(Hal Linden replaces previously announced Bruce Davison.)

Dennis’ Tidbits

By DENNIS McTIGHE

May 23, 2017

Sunrise, sunset, swiftly flow the days…

We’ve reached the point where we now have more than 14 hours a day of possible sun time and will continue to do so until about July 23. Today our sunrise occurred at 5:45 a.m. and our sunset occurs at 7:54 p.m. Our earliest sunrise of the year will take place from June 3-6 at 5:40 a.m. Starting on June 3 and running through July 20 the sun will set at 8 p.m. or later and the latest sunset will occur at 8:07 p.m. from June 20- July 6.

Local surface ocean temps are inching upwards with a temp of around 64 here in town, about a degree above normal for May 23. The warmest reading for this date was 72 in 1997 and the coldest was 53 in 1980.

June is knocking at the door and if it’s any kind of typical June, then it’s gloomtime with an average of 15 overcast days. That number varies from year to year. Over the years we’ve gotten lucky on a couple of occasions with only two gloomy days, in 1981 and 1996. At the other end of that scale we’ve endured a couple of rough ones with a total of only three days of sun all month.

Our average hi-lo for June is 74-60. Our hottest June day was 101 in 1979 and our coolest June temp was 49 in 1953. Average June rainfall is less than a tenth of an inch with the wettest June in 1993, with nearly an inch from a way late out of season Pacific system.

The Eastern Pacific hurricane season is a week old and there’s nothing going yet, just a few small clusters of thunderstorms off Costa Rica. The Atlantic season gets under way in a week.

We’re still a month or more away from the summer monsoon season when thunderstorms start to swarm the Southwest. Some places in Arizona can receive up to 60 percent of their normal annual amount in just a span of 10 or 11 weeks. Our local mountains and deserts get their share of action during this period as well.

Watch out for the I Phone Zombies. How did they survive before they had these contraptions surgically attached to their hands? Hellooo, there’s a world out there, I can’t respond to you until I text my dog! I’ll try and get back to you next week!

See y’all on Friday, ALOHA!

My Laguna 2017 photo contest is now open for entries

To celebrate Laguna Beach’s vibrancy, vitality, and livability, the City is sponsoring its annual photo contest. Photographers should submit photographs representing their perspective on life in Laguna Beach by midnight on June 7. 

Photographs may be entered in the following categories: Active Laguna: Photos of biking, surfing, hiking, walking, and exploring the non-beach outdoors. Community Life: People enjoying our events, art, culture, and City-sponsored activities. Environmental: Beach vistas, sunsets, and views of open space.

First prize photos will receive $500. Additional winners will receive $100 each. All winners will receive recognition at a City Council Meeting, be featured on the City’s social media channels, and will be posted in a gallery on the City’s website. The winners will be selected by a local marketing professional.

The contest is open to anyone who lives, works, or exhibits in Laguna Beach. For a complete list of contest rules and information about how to enter via our online “SlideRoom” portal, visit the City’s website: http://www.lagunabeachcity.net/cityhall/community/photo_contest/default.htm

Laguna Beach is named nation’s most waterwise city for the fourth time

Area residents made 6,286 pledges to cut water use by 32.6 million gallons of water over the next year. Thanks to their efforts, Laguna Beach was named one of five national winners of the 6th Annual Wyland National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation. The annual month-long public awareness campaign to promote drought resiliency and water quality ended on April 30 with mayors from 38 states vying to see whose city could be the nation’s most “water wise.”

“Laguna Beach cares about our water,” says Laguna Beach Mayor Toni Iseman. “We’ve weathered four years of an unprecedented drought. Residents take pride in our history of protecting the environment. We recognize that water is a finite resource, thus conservation has become a way of life.” 

Mayor Iseman applauds the community’s grassroots efforts

Mayor Iseman attributes the win to the grassroots efforts of the Laguna Beach County Water District, Stu News Laguna, City of Laguna Beach, KX 93.5, Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach, South Coast Water District, and Laguna Beach Unified School District.

In addition to Laguna Beach, the cities with the highest percentage of residents making pledges during the campaign included Flagstaff, Ariz., Athens, Ga., Aurora, Colo., and Dallas, Texas. Overall, residents around the nation, from Anchorage to the Florida Keys, made 421,891 pledges to change behaviors ranging from fixing home leaks to reducing harmful runoff into local rivers and streams.

The challenge, presented by the Wyland Foundation and Toyota, with support from the U.S. EPA, National League of Cities, The Toro Company, Earth Friendly Products – Maker of ECOS, and Conserva Irrigation, addresses the growing importance of educating consumers about the many ways they use water.

“This year’s challenge took a hard look at things we can all do to reduce our impact on our lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands,” said marine life artist Wyland, who founded the Wyland Foundation in 1993. “The more we can do to reduce harmful runoff into our water systems, the more we can provide long-term susttainable benefits to our communities.”

Residents from winning cities will be entered into a drawing for over $50,000 in water-saving or eco-friendly prizes, including the grand prize, a 2017 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid. Additional prizes include, “Greening Your Home” cleaning kits from Earth Friendly Products (ECOS), home irrigation equipment from the The Toro Company, EcoRain and Eco-Flow Showerheads from Waterpik, and more. A $500 home improvement store shopping spree will also be chosen from among the entire pool of U.S. participants. 

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Photo courtesy LBCWD

Laguna Beach County Water District practices what it preaches

In addition to reducing water, challenge participants in 50 states pledged to reduce the use of millions of 4.7 million single-use plastic water bottles and eliminate 114,000 pounds of hazardous waste from entering watersheds. By altering daily lifestyle choices, pledges also resulted in potentially 52.5 million fewer pounds in landfills. Potential savings of 14.6 million gallons of oil, 7.8 billion pounds of carbon dioxide, 156.8 million kilowatt hours of electricity, and $35.5 million in consumer cost savings rounded out the final pledge results. 

Laguna Beach County Water District provides water service to 19,000 residents within an 8.5 square mile area of Laguna Beach. The District’s mission is to furnish a high quality, reliable water supply in a financially responsible manner, while promoting water-use efficiency.

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Award winning fine artist Victoria Moore exhibits work at The Red Matter Art Gallery as she battles illness

Internationally respected and awarded master fine artist Victoria Moore is currently exhibiting her work at the Red Matter Art Gallery, located at 1848 S. Coast Hwy, as part of Laguna Foundation for the Arts’ (LFFTA) collection. 

Well known for her prolific career, Victoria has created numerous masterpiece paintings that have been displayed around the world. Her art collection consists of more than 250 artworks to date. Victoria is a founding member of LFFTA. She has chosen to support LFFTA and its mission, as her family has had roots in Laguna Beach since the 1950s. Her work was previously on display at Woods Cove Art Gallery and Main Beach Fine Art. 

During much of this time, Victoria has been fighting a brave battle with cancer. She has undergone several chemotherapy treatments at Stanford University Medical Center. It was not long after being declared cancer-free that Victoria was subsequently diagnosed with secondary complications. 

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Between Two Worlds by Victoria Moore

Victoria is full of inspiring stories from a lifetime of experiences. 

This is a difficult time for Victoria and the many patrons who have experienced her artwork over the years. She is truly a blessed artist who brings incredible joy and beauty into the lives of those who experience her work. 

Her career spans four decades with her first solo art show at age 21. Throughout the ‘70s, she worked with computer giants of Silicon Valley and NASA as a technical illustrator, and worked closely with the physicists at Lawrence Livermore Labs. Among her many lifetime achievements, she has two artworks at NASM: Permanent Collection at The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, A Presidential Commission: Ronald Reagan, and she received State Ambassador Award from The Portrait Society of America. 

Some of Victoria’s key masterpieces are found in the “Mythic Collection,” which includes 17 original pieces and is valued at over one million dollars. The entire collection has recently been placed under contract by a private collector for display in a US museum’s permanent collection. 

Visit http://www.victoriamooreportfolio.com/ to learn more about this renowned artist and to view some of Victoria’s work. 

For gallery information: (949) 289-6684, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Shavuot celebrated with readings and holiday fun at special service at Chabad Jewish Center on May 31

Chabad Jewish Center welcomes the community to a special Shavuot service on Wednesday, May 31, beginning at 10:30 a.m. with special holiday prayers, reading of the Ten Commandments, and dairy buffet lunch. JYZ youth program for kids of all ages will be held at 4:30 p.m., with a “Make your own Sundae” ice cream party and holiday fun. Yizkor Memorial Service takes place on Thurs, June 1, at (approximately) noon.

Shavuot is the second of the three major festivals (Passover being the first, and Sukkot being the third), and comes exactly 50 days after Passover, marking the completion of the seven weeks between Passover and Shavuot during which the Jewish people prepared themselves for the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai.

Some customs of the holiday include an all-night Torah study on the first night of Shavuot, and eating dairy foods such as cheesecake and cheese blintzes.

Chabad is located at 30804 S. Coast Hwy, across from Montage Resort. For more information and a complete schedule of services, visit the Shavuot mega-site at www.chabadoflaguna.com

Valiant Women of Mission Hospital raises more than $200,000 to support women’s services

Valiant Women of Mission Hospital celebrated women and life at the 21st Annual Valiant Women Luncheon and Fashion Show on April 21 at the beautiful Monarch Beach Resort. The funds generated by the event will support Valiant Women’s bold commitment to raise more than $1.6 million over the next five years. 

In addition to their continued support for Mission Women’s Wellness Center and nursing scholarships, Valiant Women is raising funds to purchase a mobile 3D Tomosynthesis Mammography unit and da Vinci operating bed for women’s surgeries, and to support the current renovation of the hospital’s Labor and Delivery Unit. 

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(l-r) Lee Penrose, Ginny Wetterau, Tricia Raymund, Nancy Patch, Patsy Sanquist, Tarek Salaway

One of the highlights of the event is always the dynamic team of Mission Hospital physicians and nurses who serve as fashion models, showcasing spring designs from retailers at The Shops at Mission Viejo. This year the retailers included Banana Republic, Brighton, Chico’s, lululemon, Macy’s, Soma, Swiss Watch Gallery, Tommy Bahama and White House | Black Market. Hair and makeup styling were provided by Toni&Guy and MAC. The event was made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsor - The Shops at Mission Viejo and Valiant Sponsors - Golden State Foods and Mark and Ginny Wetterau, Kasdan Lippsmith, Webber and Turner LLP and Western Digital and the Grace-Camp Family. 

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Carolyn Dupon, RN, showcases spring designs at Valiant Women fashion show

Valiant Women is a group of dedicated community members, united by the Spirit of Giving and a common desire to ensure that women of all ages receive quality health care. This special group supports Mission Hospital and is dedicated to meeting the medical, surgical, educational and spiritual needs of all women. 

To learn more about Valiant Women, contact Jessika Abbott at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (949) 365-3844.

Rotary Club recognizes two Scholar Athletes

This month Laguna Rotary Club recognizes two Scholar Athletes from Laguna Beach High School. 

Nicole Davidson received Most Valuable Player Award as well as Players Award, Coach’s Award, Most Improved and three OC All League Awards. She has played Varsity Basketball for four years, breaking five school records as Point Guard.  

Nicole also played Varsity Tennis for two years.  She enjoys coaching fourth and fifth grade girl’s basketball at the Boys and Girls Club.  Nicole plans on attending Cal State Poly at San Luis Obispo studying Agricultural Business.

Photo by Rick Lang

Rotary scholar athletes Grant Potratz and Nicole Davidson

Grant Potratz has excelled in baseball and basketball. He received Coaches Award in Varsity Basketball.  Grant enjoys AP Macro Economics and AP Government.  He is an avid fisherman in the Fishing Club.  Grant plans to attend San Diego State University and major in Business.

Festival artists offered benediction at the Blessing of Artists ceremony at St. Catherine’s Church on May 26

Artists seeking calm before the festival season may want to consider the Blessing of Artists ceremony. All artists and associates are invited to the non-denominational event Fri, May 26, at 7 p.m. at Saint Catherine’s Church, 1042 Temple Terrace.

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Anne England, one of the founders of Blessing of Artists

Printmaker Anne England was among the founders of the event, started more than 20 years ago. “It’s a beautiful ceremony where we can feel blessed and reminded of the value of our work and talents,” said England. “It’s free so everyone can come.” 

The ceremony is presented by the Saint Catherine of Sienna Council of Catholic Women. No reservations are required and parking is free on the street. For further information, contact Angela Ordway (949) 510-6930.

Suzie’s ARTiculation

Festival of Arts Foundation grants provide generous funding for local arts organizations

By SUZIE HARRISON

Over the years, I’ve been told by many of our local nonprofit arts organizations how grateful they are for the Festival of Arts Foundation grants, stressing what a difference they make and how much they contribute to so many arts programs in the community.

Sawdust Art Enrichment Fund (SAEF) 

“We received a generous grant from FOA Foundation last year, which enabled us to help fund one class with the spouses of active military. We planned just the one class, and hoped it would be well received. The response was so overwhelming that we knew we would have to continue the program. We are fortunate that FOA Foundation felt the same way, and increased the grant so that we could fund three classes. We are tailoring the classes to be sure that they walk away with the skills and materials to continue the art projects on their own. Whether they pursue it for additional income, personal pleasure, or gifts for family and friends, it is all good,” said Maggie Spencer SAEF Chair and Trustee, about the program started by Cherril Doty, SAEF Treasurer and Chair. 

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Photo by Michael Thorstensen 

Pictured L-R: Kristin Felton, Sawdust instructor Jamie Bichler, and Catherine Lewis enjoying the first SAEF art program for spouses of active military

Laguna Dance Festival

“The FOA Foundation support enables the Laguna Dance Festival to expand educational programs including our master class series, it is a critical part of our mission to give direct access to professionals in the field right here in Laguna Beach,” said Jodie Gates, Founder & Director, Laguna Dance Festival.

No Square Theatre

“Our recent Foundation grants have helped us with the significant cost of having live musicians for our performances. It’s noteworthy, and we are forever grateful, that theirs is the first grant we received when No Square Theatre started 20 years ago. Without their support, there might not be a community theatre in our beautiful town,” said Bree Burgess Rosen, Vice-President, Founding Artistic Director, No Square Theatre.

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Photo copyright Adrienne Helitzer

Olivia Batchelder teaching, “Botanicals,” a LOCA silk painting workshop series as this year’s chosen artist for the LOCA Artist in Residence Program at Laguna Beach High School

LOCA Arts Education

“The Festival of Arts Foundation, they fund our entire arts in schools program, which is a program in all four schools in the LBUSD, including the high school artist in residence program, as well as pre-school and kindergarten children at the Boys & Girls Club, and Senior Art Escapes at the Susi Q Center. We’re providing arts for everybody in the community and the Foundation is very generous, I think, because we provide comprehensive art programs for all ages,” said LOCA Program Director, Sherry Bullard. 

Laguna Beach Seniors

“The Festival of Arts Foundation support of our ‘Gallery Q’ has as a tremendous impact on the individual (senior) artists, many of whom have never had their work shown in public in a professional setting. Several have sold their work at the Susi Q Senior Center and in some cases Gallery Q has led to a new ‘career’ in the arts,” said Nadia Babayi, Laguna Beach Seniors, Executive Director.

Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD)

“Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD) is ever so grateful to Festival of Arts Foundation for providing a total of over $300,000 since 1989 in support of LCAD. This has been primarily for support of the LCAD Scholarship Fund. In that approximately 85 percent of LCAD students require financial assistance every year to complete their degree programs, these gifts have been a very important part of their success. Festival of Arts Foundation has also supported LCAD’s Annual Fund which helps fund LCAD’s eight BFA programs, four MFA programs, the Post-Baccalaureate program, the LCAD Gallery, and various other community programs. Festival of Arts Foundation has made a real positive difference in the lives of LCAD’s students,” said Dominic Mumolo, LCAD,

Director of College Advancement.

Laguna Beach Boys & Girls Club 

“The Festival of Arts Foundation helps support the array of programs under our Arts for All initiative, including fine arts, photography, ceramics, and more. Keeping the creative spirit alive in today’s rapid paced super structured world can be a challenge. Our Club is committed to sustaining Laguna’s legacy as an art colony by insuring our children, from preschool to high school, have a continuum of nurturing artistic experiences at our Club. Students participating in the arts have been proven to benefit academically. To me, more importantly, the creative process allows young people to explore, imagine, experiment, think critically, reflect, empathize, and self-express, ultimately impacting their development in truly meaningful ways,” Pam Estes, Laguna Beach Boys & Girls Club, CEO.

Until next time…so many amazing arts programs, so little time!

The Latin Jazz Syndicate kicks off Laguna Beach Live! Summer Jazz Wednesdays on June 21

Laguna Beach Live! announces the return of Summer Jazz Wednesdays on June 21 at the beautiful Rose Garden at Hotel Laguna. The Latin Jazz Syndicate, featuring Bijon Watson on trumpet, starts the series.

Cindy Prewitt, President of Laguna Beach Live!, said, “We are delighted to return to the Garden. It is such a great space and it offers personal service with a menu of tempting food and beverages. Space is limited, though, so we suggest people buy tickets early.”

The Latin Jazz Syndicate was formed in 2005 as a musical project meant to explore the fusion of Latin and world rhythms with a vast collection of jazz standards. The group pays homage to American indigenous music, jazz, while maintaining the rhythmic and harmonic authenticity required of various ethnic styles. 

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The Rose Garden setting is wonderful for Laguna Beach Live Jazz Wednesdays

Featuring a variety of top musicians, the series continues every two weeks: vocalist Samantha Sidley with Dan Reckard on piano (July 5); Eric Dries Group (July 19); internationally-acclaimed vocalist Leslie Lewis (August 2); “A Tribute to the Poll Winners: Barney Kessel, Shelly Manne, and Ray Brown,” featuring Graham Dechter on guitar, Ryan Shaw on drums, and Alex Frank on bass (August 16); and concludes on August 30 with the Laguna Beach Live! All Stars.

Tickets are $25 for table seating and $20 for side seating. Members of Laguna Beach Live! at the Associate level or higher may purchase tickets starting on May 1 before they go on sale to the public on May 15. 

To become a member or renew a membership, go to lagunabeachlive.org. Season tickets and single concerts may be purchased at lagunabeachlive.org or by phone 800-595-4849. For further information, call 949-715-97113.

The Mellors’ Laguna Playhouse Tribute Fund will provide free tickets for young playgoers

To inspire more youth to attend the theatre, longtime supporters of Laguna Playhouse and the arts, Suzanne and James Mellor, have created The Suzanne and James Mellor Laguna Playhouse Tribute Fund, which will provide free tickets to young audiences 21 and under for select shows during the subscription season.

Suzanne and James have supported Laguna Playhouse for more than two decades. Both have served on the Board of Trustees of Laguna Playhouse, have helped lead the Playhouse’s philanthropic efforts as donors, and have served in leadership roles throughout the Laguna art community. 

As one of the founding members of the Playhouse Women, Suzanne chaired the first gala, and James served as Chairman of the Board for many years. “While we have given to the Playhouse for many years, both Suzanne and I feel like we are the beneficiaries,” said James Mellor. 

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Suzanne and James Mellor create Laguna Playhouse Tribute Fund

Through the tribute fund, Suzanne and James will make the same theatre experiences they have enjoyed over the years available to youth, with the goal of building an audience for the future. The Mellors raised more than $90,000 to launch the Tribute Fund, thus providing an opportunity to bring nearly 5,000 young adults to Laguna Playhouse.

“This incredible gift will allow us to bring thousands of young people into our theatre,” said Ellen Richard, Laguna Playhouse Executive Director. “The opportunity to build empathy and understanding in the next generation with shows like 12 Angry Men, Clybourne Park, and The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey is priceless. This gift has the power to change lives.”

Laguna Playhouse is noted for its artistic excellence, wide-ranging performing arts programming, community engagement, and award-winning theatre education for the next generation.

Rock for the Cause – the Friendship Shelter – with the 133 band and Stu News on June 5 at Mozambique

On Monday, June 5, from 6 – 10 p.m., co-hosts Marshall & Elizabeth Ininns, Stu Saffer, Shaena Stabler, Lynette Brasfield and Clay Berryhill will be encouraging everyone to Rock for the Cause at Mozambique Restaurant, 1740 S Coast Hwy, during a fundraiser and “fun-raiser” for the Friendship Shelter.

Stu News Laguna’s Shaena Stabler is a board member of Friendship Shelter. The story of her childhood and her struggles as the daughter of an often-homeless father and a mother suffering from mental illness is available on video at www.friendshipshelter.com. 

Her challenges have made Shaena a particularly ardent supporter of Friendship Shelter and the work they do to help the homeless live productive lives. 

Laguna’s own 133, an eight-person band made up of incredible songwriters and musicians who live and perform in Laguna Beach, will playing to “Rock the Cause” at this year’s event. 

The band – which is the subject of an upcoming “docuality” film, “133 the Road to Laguna,” targeted for release in 2017 – is very excited to be a part of this year’s Friendship Shelter benefit, according to founder and filmmaker Clay Berryhill. 

All of the members of 133 are actively involved in many Laguna Beach based charities that support the wellbeing and ongoing improvement of Laguna Beach and its citizens! Clay Berryhill, founder and President of 133 FILMusic Group says, “Every member of 133 jumped at the chance to play at this year’s Rock the Cause event.”

The members of 133 are Steve Wood, Beth Wood, Poul Pedersen, Nick I Hernandez, Jason Feddy, Bob Hawkins, Alan Deremo and Frank Cotinola. 

Another Rock the Cause co-host, Marshall Ininns (along with his wife Elizabeth), has been an architect in Laguna Beach for 30 years. He is a past President of the Friendship Shelter Board of Directors – which makes perfect sense. Who knows better the importance people place on homes than a person responsible for designing them?  

When asked why he is so passionate about ending homelessness in Laguna, Ininns’ answer is much simpler than that: “…but for the grace of God, there go I, you know? Looking back there were times in my life when I could have been there.”  

Friendship Shelter was incorporated in 1987 to provide year-round shelter and rehabilitation to homeless adults. Today the nonprofit provides a full complement of rehabilitative services to those most in need and addresses the many interrelated problems of homelessness, including mental and physical health, drug and alcohol addiction, personal responsibility, education, and employment opportunity. To date, more than 10,000 people have participated in a Friendship Shelter program, and each night nearly 100 homeless people sleep safe, warm, and cared for.

Tickets include two well drinks and passed appetizers.

Get tickets at: www.friendshipshelter.org/rock-for-the-cause-at-mozambique

Two Art Camps for “Adventurous Artists” will be offered in the first weeks of July at the Susi Q

Is there a budding Picasso or Georgia O’Keeffe possibly residing in your home?  Does the “doodler” who draws on any blank piece of paper need an opportunity to explore new ways to express his/her creativity?

Perhaps the City’s Art Camp for Adventurous Artists is the place for your 7-15 year old.  This is the perfect place to help your youngsters find and enhance their “inner artist.” 

Each weeklong art camp will include painting, drawing, sculpting and other forms of artistic expression. A hands-on session with a well-known Laguna artist will be included as well as a possible visit to a local art gallery for inspiration and ideas.    

Local artist, Carole Zavala, will offer a session that will also include stories of famous artists and how they changed the way we create and look at art, and how they inspire us to find our own special approach to being creative. 

Carole initiated the Gallery Q exhibition programs at the Susi Q Center, and will oversee an exhibit of the students’ work during the summer.  She has worked with arts education programs at the Getty, LACMA and MOCA in Los Angeles, and ran programs for Gifted and Talented students in the Capistrano Unified School District.

Contact her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and check out her website at www.czartsandfilm.com. Sign up through the City of Laguna Beach website (lagunabeachcity.net) or in person at the City’s Community Center at 380 Third St. Classes are held at the Community Center.  The camps take place from 9 a.m. to noon, beginning on Monday July 4 and Monday July 10.

A tour of two mosques brings greater understanding of Islam, from weighty matters to lighter subjects

Story and photos by LYNETTE BRASFIELD

Fifty-two people, mostly Lagunans, set out on a cloudy Saturday morning last week on a quest to better “Understand Islam” as part of a tour group led by local Bill Hoffman of Hoffy Tours. 

The education began on the bus as we headed toward our first stop, the Islamic Institute of Orange County in Anaheim: Hoffman told us that there are 40,000 Muslims in OC served by 22 mosques, and 3.3 million Muslims in the US, representing one percent of the population.

Fair enough: but what some of the participants really wanted to ask was clear – what was it about Islam that bred terrorism? No one broached that subject outright, but it was an undercurrent present throughout the day. Other questions touched on a similar theme, for example, why does the Muslim community not denounce terrorism more forcefully? – a question that of course, in its very phrasing, suggests that the community doesn’t denounce terrorism, just as the first question suggests that Islam does in fact breed violence.

Islam and terrorism: we get some answers

We heard some interesting responses to those questions.

Other questions on some minds: What is the appeal that makes Islam the fastest growing religion in the world? How do female Muslims feel about wearing the hijab and praying in a separate area from the men?

And then there were the questions that intrigued others of us: How do you snorkel or swim freely when your clothing has to be modest? And how on earth do you survive fasting from sunrise to sunset on Ramadan when it occurs during the summer, as it will this year?

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Women in the tour group don headscarves as a sign of respect in the mosque

A complete summary of all we learned on this interesting day is beyond the scope of this article, but I’ll do my best to capture the highlights.

At the Islamic Institute of OC, Nicole Boyer, born and raised in California, explained the Five Pillars of Islam – interesting, but something that you can Google on the Internet – so it was her conversion to Islam at the age of 25 after growing up in a not-particularly-religious family, that intrigued us most. What specifically had attracted her to this faith?

“Islam says we all have a direct relationship with one God, translated in Arabic as Allah, and that we are responsible for our own lives,” Boyer said. “That made sense to me. Also I was tired of materialism, I was looking for structure, and I liked the guidelines on how to live. We gain peace through our submission to God. We are all equal in his eyes.” 

Boyer knew what she was doing: she completed her Masters in the subject and lived among Muslims for several years in Egypt. She thought long and hard about her decision. 

In both mosques we visited, this direct relationship with an omniscient god was emphasized. Mosques do not contain icons related to people or animals, nor is God/Allah represented in human form, even metaphorically. 

“God is unknowable,” explained Dr. Muzzamil H. Siddiqi, Religious Director for the Islamic Society of Orange County, located in Little Saigon. “No one can intercede for us. We alone are responsible for our actions.”

So, no saints, no Virgin Mary, no Christ on the cross: only the ineffable presence of one God is emphasized at mosques. 

According to Islam, there were prophets, an astonishing 134,000 of them, beginning with Adam, continuing with Jesus, with Muhammad the last prophet, who was his final messenger, with the Quran revealed to him. But prophets aren’t worshipped.

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Prayers begin at the mosque: note the lack of human or animal icons

Dr. Siddiqi also addressed the question of pushback against violence. “Everyday Muslims absolutely reject violence,” he said. “This is not something that the media reports, how many Muslims all over the world are resisting groups like ISIS – who may call themselves Muslims but they are not acting as Muslims should act according to Islamic beliefs, they are a violent gang – not only are Muslims resisting, but thousands are dying in many countries the fight against terrorism and violence, and that isn’t reported,” he said. 

“Islam is about peace. Islam does not breed violence. Like the Bible, there are passages in the Koran that can be taken out of context,” Siddiqi added.

One member of the tour group – unfortunately I didn’t catch her name – posited that the lack of a hierarchy in the Islamic faith might be one reason that the message of Muslim resistance was not being heard. 

Who speaks for Muslims?

“Without a Pope figure or heads of churches as a spokesperson, for example, maybe it is harder for the media to find a unified voice to speak for Muslims,” she said. (I’m paraphrasing here.)

Or maybe it is just that the media respond to what interests people: the gory and the frightening. A day in the life of an ordinary Muslim, or Christian for that matter, would hardly hold the reader’s interest, or not for long.

Dr. Siddiqi also pointed out that if a mass murderer is a Christian, Christians all over the States do not feel it necessary for them to defend Christianity. They simply would say that the person did not understand what Christianity was about.

“Similarly, Muslims don’t feel that the terrorists, just because they are Muslims, represent the Islamic faith,” he explained.

I felt that there was a lot more to explore on this topic, but that a one-on-one meeting would be more fruitful than a group discussion on a tour…and to be honest, I was glad to move on to less fraught subjects. 

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Pam Wicks, NCC, Dr. Muzzamil Siddiqi, and Susan Brown Madorsky, NCC

Later in the day, after a terrific Middle Eastern lunch, we broke into groups of nine to chat one on one with one ISOC representative at each table, all questions permitted.

So, yes, Muslim women can snorkel. They wear special bathing suits. 

“I don’t feel at all oppressed,” Lucy Silva, one of a growing number of Latina Muslims in OC, said. “I enjoy wearing the hijab and modest clothing. I feel very content that I have equal rights.” (Silva is a member of the Muslim Speakers Network. She and others at ISOC are happy to talk to women’s groups about Islam. Her contact information can be found at the end of this article.)

We were allowed to watch one of the five prayers of the day taking place in the mosque. There are certain movements associated with each prayer: some are quiet, some are more vocal. The ritual was fascinating to watch, the chanting reminding me of Catholic and Jewish services I’ve witnessed.

Interfaith meetings are key, speakers and tour participants agree

The chanting appealed particularly to Pam Wicks, of the Neighborhood Congregational Church, who by chance sat next to me at our roundtable discussion. She told me about the chanting circle at NCC, where the chants are in Sanskrit. “Chanting is common to most religions, and it is so beautiful,” she said, “so moving.

“Music and poetry bring everyone together across the world,” Wicks added. “I was struck by how heartfelt everyone today was about their beliefs, and the importance of community, and the discipline, the rituals and the prayers are so powerful – I see and feel that, how it resonates.”

Susan Brown Madorsky, Outreach Chair, NCC, also at my table, was particularly struck by the sense of community that she felt emanating from everyone we met at the two mosques. “As a spiritual person, I can understand the draw, hearing their commitment to love and religion and equality,” Madorsky said.

Nor are Muslims without a sense of humor, as some people apparently believe: there were many funny moments during the day. Perhaps the most amusing for me (who loves puns, of course) was Dr. Siddiqi’s comment that “We have Sunni and Shia Muslims worshipping here. So we could be called the su-shi mosque.”

On the way back to Laguna, Bill Hoffman paid tribute to Geoffry White, who masterminded this tour. White, we all agreed, along with Hoffman, deserved tremendous praise for creating this opportunity to learn more about the Muslims in our midst, and the realities of Islam. 

We may not all have come away with similar impressions, but we all knew a lot more than we had when we first stepped on the bus earlier that day. 

Information on future tours can be found at www.hoffytours.com. For the Muslim Speakers Network, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Police Beat Primer

Compiled by Alli Rael and Stu Saffer

Police Beat derives from information in the log maintained at the front counter by the Laguna Beach Police Department and required under CA Government Code Section 6254 (f). The press does not have access to written police reports.

Information in the police department log is deemed reliable and StuNewsLaguna is not responsible for mistakes made available as public record by
the Laguna Beach Police Department.

Parents with children in school may contact 949-497-1615 to request that their names be omitted from Police Beat. The decision of StuNewsLaguna is final.

Any person arrested is innocent until found guilty in a court of law.

Abbreviations sometimes used in Police Beat

647f – Public Intoxication; DUI – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; NFA – No fixed address; RP – Reporting/Responsible Party; UTL – Unable to locate

DUI Arrests

Ian Franklin McLean, 31, Newport Coast – Saturday, May 20

Antonio G Bares II, 47, Aliso Viejo – Saturday

Daniel Anibal Barrando, 62, Mission Viejo – Friday, May 19 With a Prior

Cristian David Renderos Gallegos, 22, Garden Grove – Thursday, May 18

He was also arrested for child endangerment. 

Tania Alexander, 57, Laguna Beach – Wednesday, May 17 Traffic Crash, With a Prior

Incident Reports

Sunday, May 21

Arrests for Being Drunk in Public

Traevon Michael Miller, 22, Aliso Viejo

Saturday, May 20

Arrests for Being Drunk in Public

Michael Anthony Masters, 52, Dana Point

Eric McGuffick, 52, no fixed address

Forest Avenue | 500 Block | Drugs

9:56 p.m. During a traffic stop, Eric Moreno, 24, Aliso Viejo, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance. 

S. Coast Hwy | 1300 Block | Drugs, Probation

9:46 p.m. Anthony Cerda Jr., 37, Buena Park, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was also placed on a flash probation hold without bail. 

Ocean View Street | 31400 Block | Fraud

6:01 p.m. The victim reported credit card fraud. 

S. Coast Hwy | 100 Block | Petty Theft

5:17 p.m. A wallet containing $20 and a military ID was stolen from underneath the RP’s beach towel.

Friday, May 19

Arrests for Being Drunk in Public

Gilda Isabel Pearson, 53, Rancho Santa Margarita

Robert Shaw, 58, no fixed address

Blake Harrison Ochse, 24, Laguna Niguel

S. Coast Hwy | 400 Block | Grand Theft

6:09 p.m. A purse was stolen. The suspects are on video.

Laguna Canyon Road | 20600 Block | Trespassing

5:37 p.m. Malak Harris, 34, no fixed address, was arrested for trespassing. 

Forest Avenue | 500 Block | Fraud

4:36 p.m. Fraudulent charges amounting to $3,812 were made in the RP’s name.

Laguna Canyon Road | 20600 Block | Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Challenging a Fight

7:34 a.m. A man, later identified as Mark Jurczynski, 58, no fixed address, threatened the RP with his cane. He was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and challenging a fight in public. 

Thursday, May 18

N. Coast Hwy & Jasmine Street | Objects Thrown from Vehicle

2 p.m. The occupants of a vehicle threw water balloons at pedestrians, including a police officer. A follow-up will be conducted. 

Laguna Canyon Road | 20600 Block | Vandalism

11:36 a.m. A suspect kicked a vehicle, causing a dent.

S. Coast Hwy | 2500 Block | Drugs

11:15 a.m. Danielle Conner, 27, Newcastle, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance. Later she was also charged with bringing drugs into jail. Bail was $20,000. 

Laguna Canyon Road | 20600 Block | Petty Theft

10:25 a.m. A bike was stolen. 

Forest Avenue & Broadway Street | Traffic Crash

8:58 a.m. A bicycle was clipped by a vehicle. The bicyclist sustained unspecified injuries. 

Windsor Place | 400 Block | Petty Theft

7:50 a.m. A package with unspecified contents was stolen. 

Wednesday, May 17

Arrests for Being Drunk in Public

Kyle David Brown, 34, Aliso Viejo

N. Coast Hwy | 100 Block | Fraud

6:24 p.m. A fake $20 was used. 

Cliff Drive | 600 Block | Vandalism

10:54 a.m. An unknown person keyed the RP’s vehicle overnight while it was parked in their driveway.