Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Laguna Art Museum takes Pride and goes Boom…Boom

It’s Pride Month, a month many parts of the country dedicate to celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Laguna Beach, with its notable past in this arena, is no different. And, as part of this, Laguna Art Museum has announced its upcoming event, LAM Goes Boom: A Pride Celebration on Saturday, June 10. This event will pay homage to the iconic gay bars of Laguna Beach, including the legendary Boom Boom Room.

“Pride Month holds a special place at our museum, which has a proud history of being an important partner in Laguna Beach as a place of inclusivity,” said Julie Perlin Lee, executive director of Laguna Art Museum. “Art has the power to foster dialogue, promote understanding and inspire change. We are eagerly looking forward to welcoming the community to the museum this June as we come together to embrace the LGBTQ+ community and the vibrant spirit of Pride Month.”

LAM Goes BOOM: A Pride Celebration honors the legacy of the city’s bygone gay bars, specifically the historic Boom Boom Room, once a local hub that drew members of the Southern California LGBTQ+ community for decades before closing in 2007.

The evening will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, with a screening of Fred Karger’s documentary about the efforts to save the longtime gathering place, Save the Boom, in the museum’s galleries.

Following the screening, the atmosphere will shift into a lively dance party with DJ SoulFire. Advance tickets are strongly recommended and admission includes one cocktail for guests aged 21 and above. Museum members can attend for $20, while non-members are welcome for $35.

• • •

Well, if you tuned in recently to Mornings with Ed on KX FM Radio, guess what, no Ed. So, what happened?

I spoke with Ed Steinfeld yesterday and he said simply, “It was time!”

Ed talked about some of the concerns he had in the direction the station was heading and offered himself up to do more. The station management decided then to pivot elsewhere.

Ed, who thought “he’d never, ever leave the station,” decided around early February that maybe it was time. Still, it made him “sick to his stomach” to even think about.

Tyler McCusker, the founder and president of KX FM, said, “Ed resigned on his own volition. We wish him the best.”

So, with no Ed in the morning, what’s the station planning? “Our station remains Laguna’s only FM,” said McCusker. “It has never – and will never – be about one person. KX will affirm our connection to the community through our dozens of community volunteers. Mornings will be hosted by longstanding members of the KX family. This week, we have Tommy Benson, Ida Mae, John Ford, Steve Reid and Greg Friedman. They are all amazing and diverse hosts, representing different facets and tastes of Lagunans, something long needed in our morning programming.”

Ed, on the other hand said that he started purchasing needed equipment for his own station “one piece at a time.” He also said he filed with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in early February for his own signal.

Then, last week, he said he gave notice and offered to finish out his week, but station management, which is often the case, decided to end things immediately and Ed was out.

Still, he said upon announcing his new intentions of “launching a new station” that the community response has been “overwhelming.” And, he’s hoping his application before the FCC will come to fruition this fall.

However, in contacting the FCC about new applications in waiting, I was directed to their link “How to Apply for a Radio or Television Broadcast Station” (www.fcc.gov/media/radio/how-to-apply) which clearly stated that “The FCC is not accepting applications for new FM commercial broadcast stations at the present time.” It was the same for non-commercial FM educational radio broadcast stations and lower power FM non-commercial broadcast stations.

So, unless Ed’s application was accepted prior to those areas being closed, it would seem an application for consideration might be difficult. No confirmation on Steinfeld’s status could be obtained through the FCC.

Steinfeld, who was the morning voice on KX FM and had spent the last five years at the station, announced in a media release last week that “He’s taking all that (experience and success) to his new venture.”

He’s calling the new venture the Voice of Laguna radio station, which he says plans to “give a voice to every corner of the community, and every corner of the world. It is what radio was meant to be, a complete and trusted source of entertainment, information and, most of all, relevance. Important topics, serious conversations with policy makers, artists, musicians and people making a difference…and the BEST music in Southern California.”

He officially launched yesterday (Monday, June 5) and can be found at www.voiceoflaguna.com, and soon on iHeart and IOS and Android apps that he hopes are released soon.

Steinfeld is a 25-year Laguna resident, and will spend time working in a studio out of his home and being accessible at the “newspaper stand.” He’s hoping people will give him a listen and “support those who support him.” To contact him via the way Alexander Graham Bell made famous and Steve Jobs made convenient for every pocket and purse, call 949.715.7062.

As for KX FM, McCusker said, “We’re excited to announce some changes that we’ve been planning for a while. News to come soon! Regarding individual claims about the station’s viability, we are currently transitioning staff and forming strategic partnerships to ensure the station’s long-term strength and success. We are extremely confident that KX FM will remain an indispensable resource for Laguna Beach for years and years to come. I’m excited to give you some more good news on that front in our own press release soon.”

• • •

I received one of the official signals that summer is upon us here in Laguna Beach. Okay, some would say, “Oh, you mean that the sun came out?” No, although that was nice to have over the weekend, but that’s not what I was referring to. I was actually talking about news that the Pageant opening is just a month off and tickets for individual performances of the Pageant of the Masters are on sale for shows beginning in the Irvine Bowl officially on Friday, July 7 at 8:30 p.m.

As it celebrates their 90th anniversary, this year’s theme, ART COLONY: IN THE COMPANY OF ARTISTS, “acknowledges the deep connections of the Festival and Pageant to the early artists who settled in Laguna Beach. It will also feature other memorable stories of artists assisting one another through cooperation and fellowship in vastly different eras and circumstances around the world.”

As always, this year’s performances will again be nothing short of spectacular. For ticket information, go here.

Make certain you allow ample time before the performance to mosey around the Festival of Arts Show, which in itself is unbelievable.

Enjoy more than 100 award-winning OC artists in the open-air gallery enjoying works that include painting, glass, ceramics, photography and more.

It’s GOOD!

Here’s a link to the artists that are involved and some of their work.

LBHS Scholarship Foundation holds 2023 Convocation to recognize student honorees

Photos by Mary Hurlbut

On the evening of Friday, June 2, the Laguna Beach High School Scholarship Foundation (LBHSSF) held its annual Honors Convocation to recognize the Class of 2023 student scholarship recipients and thanked the generous scholarship donors at a private reception prior to the program.

More than $440,000 worth of scholarships were bestowed.

Scholarships are awarded to recognize academic achievements, athletic endeavors, financial need, good citizenship, leadership, personal courage, the arts, music, school spirit, community service and more. Scholarships are available to students attending two- or four-year colleges or universities as well as vocational schools. LBHSSF has been awarding scholarships to graduating LBHS seniors since 1947.

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2023 Graduates

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Officer Jon Coutchie Criminal Justice Scholarship of $1,500 was awarded to Rylee Goode. (L-R) School Resource Officer Fred Yeilding, Lieutenant Cornelius Ashton, LBPD Chief Jeff Calvert, Rylee Goode, Chairman of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce Paula Hornbuckle-Arnold, Captain Michael Peters and Community Outreach Officer Jason Ferris.

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Lily Gabora, who was awarded the Michael G Smithers Memorial Scholarship - Overcoming Personal Challenges for $1,000, with her mother

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(L-R) Recipients of the Mark Tiner Memorial Scholarships, Lucas McKibben, $2,000; Logan Ribarich, $1,000; Alexandra Swellen, $2,000 and Sean Tiner with his daughter. Swellen also was awarded the April and Daphne Crevier Memorial Scholarship, $1,000; Assistance League of Laguna Beach Scholarship, $5,000; the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce Business and Entrepeneur Award, $1,000; Michael G Smither Memorial Scholarship - Overcoming Personal Challenges, $1,000; Patsy Ann Weaver Scholarship, $18,000 and the Soroptimist International of Laguna Beach - Special Achievement Award, $2,000.

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Rotary Club Scholarship winners

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Barbara MacGillivray with Cristian Castro Lopez (who received multiple awards), James Patrick Vincent and Marian Pickens Fagan Scholarship Fund, $3,000; Laguna Beach Rotary Club Foundation’s Fred R. Sacher Scholarship, $10,000; Gerald A. Dennis and Maria Dominguez Memorial Scholarship, $500; April and Daphne Crevier Memorial Scholarships, $1,000; Margo Cruz Memorial Scholarship, $1,000; Melvin J. Tonkon MD Medical Scholarship, $5,000; Michael G. Smithers Memorial Scholarship - Overcoming Personal Challenges $1,000; Principal Duddy Memorial Scholarship, $1,500 and the Red Guyer Athletic Scholarship, $500. Lopez wants to go to medical school. 

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Recipient of Skipper Carrillo Scholarship of $500, Sarah Balian with Skipper Carrillo

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Myha Pinto receives Appointment to the United States Naval Academy from Sean Forrester, Blue and Gold Officer, US Naval Academy

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(L-R) Devyn Linder and Moorea Howson with her mother Kris and Aaron Poe. Linder and Poe were awarded Moe Money by Howson.

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Ashton Azadian received the Coast Film Festival Emerging Filmmaker Scholarship of $1,500 from Ben Warner (on right, one of the Film Festival founders and his wife Kirsten is on the left)

For more photos by Mary Hurlbut, go to slideshow below:

A warm send-off for LBFD Division Chief Api Weinert

Photos by Scott Brashier

On Friday morning, June 2, there was a fond farewell ceremony for Laguna Beach Fire Department Division Chief Api Weinert at Fire Station 2, recognizing his 35 years of dedicated service to the department. Among the well-wishers giving Weinert a grand send-off as he retires from the LBFD, were Fire Chief Niko King, Battalion Chief Andrew Hill (who organized the event), LBPD fire personnel, dear friends from Fire and Forestry, Costa Mesa Fire Chief Dan Stefano, OC Fire Authority Chaplain Edward Valdez, (both Stefano and Valdez are retired from the LBFD), LBPD and LB Lifeguard personnel and myriad community members.

Throughout the ceremony, comments were said (and echoed) about the remarkable influence Weinert has had on so many through his dedication, work ethic and ability to help in every situation – truly a much-loved role model and hero.

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(L-R) Laguna Beach Fire Chief and Laguna Beach Fire Department Division Chief Api Weinert, holding a Division Chief helmet and position badges plaque commemorating his service to the LBFD

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LBFD Battalion Chief Andrew Hill sharing Weinert’s Division Chief helmet, signed by well-wishers

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LBFD Capt. Tom Padden getting ready to present the LBFD Division Chief ax plaque to Weinert

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Weinert’s Division Chief helmet, plaques and awards, and commendations proudly displayed

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Megan Weinert (Api’s wife) with LBFD Battalion Chief Andrew Hill

KelpFest returns to Main Beach

Photos by Mary Hurlbut

Laguna Ocean Foundation brought back the KelpFest on Saturday, June 3 on the cobblestones at Main Beach and crowds attended to pay homage to the kelp that supports our vital coastal resources. Hosted by Laguna Ocean Foundation, together with dedicated partner organizations, KelpFest celebrates Laguna Beach’s unique shoreline, the coast and the kelp.

The festival featured music, activities, informational booths, games and art. Highlights this year included a live art creation, ukulele performances by the Seaside Serenaders and edible kelp snacks.

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Kelp lovers, (L-R) Barbara MacGillivray, Tom Lamb and Greg MacGillivray

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Tom Joliet and the Seaside Serenaders

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A small visitor learns about sharks from the Shark Lab at California State University Long Beach

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12tides offered samples of ocean-friendly, organic kelp chips made with kelp from regenerative ocean farms

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Pacific Marine Mammal Center featured a quiz on “Furry Friends”

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Laguna Bluebelt Coalition, represented by Jinger Wallace (on left) and Charlotte Masarik

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Visitors stroll among the booths

Laguna Ocean Foundation (LOF) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to preserve and protect the beaches, intertidal zone, watersheds and ocean waters of Laguna Beach by promoting ocean literacy, emphasizing the importance of coastal ecosystems, community involvement, and an interest in nature for all residents and visitors of Laguna Beach. 

For more information, to donate, or to get involved, contact the Education and Outreach Coordinator Wendy Berube at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit www.lagunaoceanfoundation.org.

Blessing of Artists welcomes guests to prayer and a ceremony of thanksgiving

On Sunday, June 4, the Blessing of Artists took place at 4 p.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church. Artists in addition to community members were welcomed to prayer and the thanksgiving ceremony, with clergy representing a variety of faiths delivering blessings.

Sponsored by St. Catherine of Siena Council and Laguna Beach Interfaith Council, this annual prayer service brings together those in our community who keep the reputation of Laguna Beach as a “city of art.” The ceremony recognizes the talents and gifts the artists share with prayer and blessing, as they enter the summer season of art.

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Photos by Greg Sowle

Jay Grant, Networks Community Church, is at the end of the clergy line delivering blessings

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Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen shares his message from the ambo (pulpit)

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Cantor Lori Jackson at the microphone while artists and community members receive blessings

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From the ambo (pulpit), Jay Grant addresses guests in the St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church

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Mayor Whalen and wife Kirsten, Festival of Arts artist, chat with attendees on the church patio

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A food, wine and dessert reception followed the ceremony

Drive-in Movie Day at the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach

Youth at the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach (BGCLB) Canyon Branch had the opportunity to create “cardboard cars” for their “drive-in movie” day on May 26.

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Photos courtesy of BGCLB

BGCLB members spent all week designing their cars

Throughout the week, BGCLB youth showed their creativity by designing and making cars out of cardboard and other materials. Many cars featured detailed additions including steering wheels, windshield wipers and even drivers’ licenses.

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Theaters were showing four different movies

After the “cardboard cars” were constructed, youth had the option of four different “drive-in” movie theaters, each with its own movie option.

This special project was a week-long event that captured the ingenuity of the Club’s youth, while providing a fun and memorable experience for the Club community.

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What’s a drive-in movie without a concession stand?

The Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach serves more than 3,000 youth per day in the Laguna Beach, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo and Mission Viejo areas.

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Watching a movie, popcorn in hand

The Club’s mission is to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential by promoting their healthy social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. For more information about the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach, visit www.bgclagunabeach.org, or call 949. 494.2535.

Zombie Apocalypse (simulation) descends upon LBHS

The Laguna Beach High School (LBHS) theater students “performed as victims” of a mass casualty incident – Zombie Apocalypse – on Wednesday, May 31, that required the immediate response of these students enrolled in the Emergency Response Career Pathway.

Theater students utilized their theater make-up and costuming skills to create victims with various injuries sustained in an incident of this scope and size.

In addition, they employed their acting skills to act out different medical injuries and conditions, which could improve or escalate based on the treatment received by emergency response personnel. Emergency response students demonstrated their first responder skills learned. They performed search and rescue of the victims, triaged them, provided medical treatment, and much more. Laguna Beach Police and Fire Departments evaluated student performance as they determined the injuries of their victims and the appropriate treatment necessary.

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Photos courtesy of LBUSD

TJ Simmons, an 11th grader at Laguna Beach High School, is enrolled in Theater Performance and participated in the simulation using her makeup, costuming and acting skills to play the role of a victim in the Zombie Apocalypse

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EMT student Laith Hoso (left) carries acting student Maris Morgan to safety during the simulated Zombie Apocalypse mass casualty incident

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EMT student Alana Keithley treats acting student Scarlett Wheaton during the simulated Zombie Apocalypse

Laguna Beach Business Club 2023 Speaker Series features Marc Wiener on June 15

The Laguna Beach Business Club (LBBC) announced their June 15 meeting speaker will be Laguna Beach Community Development Director Marc Wiener. The LBBC holds a breakfast meeting the third Thursday of each month starting at 7:30 a.m. hosting speakers that discuss topics valuable to achieving success in your personal and professional lives.

Wiener was appointed Laguna Beach Community Development Director in December 2019. He has 15 years of experience working in coastal communities, having previously worked as director for the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea. He enjoys public service and the unique challenges that come with the position of being director.

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Courtesy of LBBC

Marc Wiener will speak at LBBC on June 15

Wiener focuses on clear communication and finding the most direct path to a solution. He is pragmatic and thoughtful in his approach and seeks common objectives in a collaborative manner. His goals are to improve the Community Development Department practices and procedures, streamline the entitlement process in a sensible manner, address longstanding policy issues and ensure that the staff is providing exceptional customer service to the community.

Wiener is an AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) Certified Planner. He holds a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from San Jose State University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Studies from UC Santa Cruz. He enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife and three kids, as well as mountain biking, playing basketball and video games.

The LBBC is a group of local business professionals and entrepreneurs that meet monthly to discuss current events, business opportunities and share insights within the context of their community and lives with the goal of building and maintaining relationships with local professionals and businesses that they can proudly recommend to clients and friends. LBBC also supports their community by providing and participating in community services and/or events that benefit the citizens of Laguna Beach.

Club meetings begin with a buffet breakfast and brief networking roundtable. Meetings are hosted at [seven-degrees], 891 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. Non-members are welcome. The non-member guest fee is $30 payable in cash or check (payable to the Laguna Beach Business Club) the day of the meeting.

For more information about the LBBC or to register to attend the meeting, either visit the website at www.lagunabeachbusinessclub.com/, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

What about the abalone?

By Maura A. Conlon, Laguna Bluebelt Coalition

It was a sold-out gathering at the Susi Q Senior Center Tuesday afternoon, May 30, as environmental historian, Ann Vileisis, narrated a rich, multi-braided tale of the history and present condition of abalone in the ocean waters of California.

Vileisis, author of Abalone: The Remarkable History and Uncertain Future of California’s Iconic Shellfish (Oregon State University Press) recalled her memory of hiking in Big Sur more than a decade ago and coming across an abalone shell upon the shore. “The shell was glimmering...shimmering,” she said. The moment piqued her curiosity. “Who was this extraordinary animal who created such a beautiful shell,” she pondered.

Before the lecture, attendees milled about tables displaying seven varieties of abalone shells, all of them iridescent within shining geometry. “We had abalone shells throughout our house back in the 1960s and ‘70s,” one attendee said.

Indeed, Vileisis, based in Port Orford, Ore., addressed the nostalgic aspect of these ancient sea creatures, noting the lore of how abalone were to Californians what Maine lobster was to the East Coast – part of a cultural mythology but one associated with a mis-understood ecological story.

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Courtesy of Laguna Bluebelt Coalition

(L-R) Team Abalone: Jinger Wallace, Patsee Ober, Mike Beanan, Judy Teverbaugh, author Ann Vileisis and Nancy Caruso

Abalone flourished in earlier California waters with fossil skeletons found upon land dating back nearly 13,000 years. Abalone were the preferred food of sea otters. When these marine mammals’ population dwindled due to hunting, abalone population mushroomed, due to lack of predation. This created a windfall – a belief that their beneficent supply was endless, as it was also erroneously believed reproduction was regular and prolific. Throughout the ages – long after First Nations peoples, who revered the shellfish for nutrition and the shell for adornment and ritual purposes – various human populations hunted the abalone for sport and for profit. Vileisis also noted links with literary culture. Jack London and other members of the “Carmel Bohemians” romanticized the abalone, waxing lyrical about the requisite pounding of the meat. Such ritual was iconified in a musical piece called: “An Abalone Song” composed in 1907.

A slideshow, drawn from the author’s research, featured historic photographs of a plethora of abalone shells stockpiled in heaps, hundreds of thousands if not millions drawn from waters with no forethought regarding their future. In the past several decades, governmental agencies stepped in to impose restrictions to save the species not only from dwindling numbers but complete extinction. Changes in ocean temperature, El Niño conditions, disease and the loss of kelp beds also contributed to the plummet of the abalone population starting in the 1960s. The last abalone fishery south of San Francisco closed in 1997.

Laguna’s Bluebelt Coalition, a co-sponsor of the event and a key player in the designation of our city-wide Marine Protected Area, had this to say: “The ocean determines the climate and health of the planet while we determine the health of the ocean.” Mike Beanan, one of the co-founders of the Laguna Bluebelt Coalition, continued, “Abalone are the sea sentinels for ocean water quality in Laguna’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Reducing our discharges to the coast will help the kelp and abalone to recover.”

The evening also included a presentation from Nancy Caruso, an Orange County-based marine biologist working on the re-population of green abalone in California waters with her team of scientists and volunteers. For more information, click here.

Combining cultural and culinary history with marine science, grassroots activism and gritty politics, Vileisis chronicled the plight of California’s abalone species and the growing biological awareness crucial to conserve these rare animals. “These stories are stepping points toward the future,” she said, noting our opportunity to get more local in our connection to place and to engage with ocean conservation in new ways.

Vehicle break-ins prevention

By Nicole Rice, LBPD Community Services Officer

(Crime Prevention)

There are many ways to prevent your vehicle from being broken into. One way is not leaving items of value in plain view inside of your car. Leaving items in your car can give the criminal motivation in breaking into your car to retrieve the item.

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Courtesy of LBPD

Don’t tempt criminals by leaving items in plain sight

Take your items inside of your home instead of leaving them overnight. If you must leave the item in your vehicle, leave it in the trunk. It should be noted items of value can be smaller items such as loose change, sunglasses, etc.

Always park in the garage if available, and close the garage door after you park. If a garage is not available, park in a well-lit area that is very visible to yourself or your neighbors.

Make sure to lock your car doors, roll up the windows and set the car alarm.

Dennis’ Local Almanac

By DENNIS McTIGHE

Marine layer still hanging around

Today would’ve been my Grandma Harriet’s birthday. What a wonderful soul she was. She was born on June 6, 1890 in Germany and came to the U.S. when she was 16. She settled in Pittsburgh, Pa. where she met Anthony McTighe, my Grandpa and she gave birth to three wonderful sons, William, Frank and John. Frank James McTighe was my Pop. I came from very good stock and was blessed with loving, caring parents. It’s not their fault I’m messed up!

Although the sun did break through a bit this past weekend which was a welcome sight, this season’s unrelenting gloom is not loosening its grip much and shows no sign of letting up anytime soon, as the worst gloom attack of all time continues. Daytime high temps are running 8 to 10 degrees below normal and the water’s still cold at 60-62 degrees. Our desert regions are also running below normal with afternoon temps barely clearing 90 when it should be at around 102-104. The marine layer has been consistently thick at 5,000 ft. or more. Where are you, Senor El Niño? We haven’t even had a decent summer since 2014.

More on dew points: The dew point kind of dictates how comfortable or uncomfortable the surrounding air feels on our skin. Here in Laguna, our dew point usually runs at fairly tolerable levels which is in the low to mid 50s. When the dew point is around 60, the surrounding air feels a tiny bit muggy, but not too bad. When our dew point is 65 or so, there is some discomfort, but not unbearable. When the dew point reaches 70, which is rare in these parts, it becomes squirm time as perspiration significantly increases.

By the time it reaches 75 or higher, things get a bit unbearable. At 80, it’s miserable. In all the years I’ve been keeping daily records, the highest dew point I’ve recorded was in July 2015 when the air temp was 84 and the relative humidity was at 76% which translates into a dew point of 76, highly unusual for our region.

However, during the summer, especially east of the Rockies, dew points of 70-75 are quite common and even 80 is reached on occasions – especially when severe thunderstorms are in that given area. Relative humidity routinely is expressed as a percentage. Temperature largely determines the maximum amount of water vapor the air can hold. Warm air can hold more water vapor than cool air. Relative humidity expresses the degree of saturation. Air with 100% humidity is saturated, like when there’s a thick fog – and anything less than 100% is unsaturated. When temp and humidity are identical, the air is saturated.

Later in the week, there’s an upper level low that is expected to park off our coast for a couple of days. That could trigger some thunderstorm activity not only in our local mountains, but there’s also a chance of some of that activity in our coastal areas as well with some sprinkles or isolated squally type showers. Stay tuned on that one. That low could chase away some of that stubborn marine layer that’s been loitering here for weeks! See you next week.

Until then, ALOHA

Letters to the Editor

“Stu News” is silent on City of Laguna Beach adoption of Wear Orange Proclamation

At the start of the Laguna Beach City Council meeting on May 16, Mayor Bob Whalen adopted the proclamation declaring June 2, 2023, National Gun Violence Awareness Day. By the end of the day on June 6, 2023, seven Orange County cities (Laguna Beach, Mission Viejo, Irvine, Costa Mesa, Santa Ana, Anaheim and Fullerton) and the Orange County Board of Supervisors will have adopted this proclamation, known in the Everytown USA/Moms Demand Action world as the Wear Orange campaign. This proclamation is intended to bring awareness to gun violence in America and to honor the victims of that violence.

I am a regular reader of Stu News Laguna, and since the adoption of the Wear Orange Proclamation, there have been five issues of this local online newspaper published and not one mention (or hint) of its adoption has appeared in its pages. Five missed opportunities to tell residents of Laguna Beach to Wear Orange on June 2 in honor of the more than 120 everyday victims of gun violence as well as the all-too-significant number of people in America who have died in the wake of an all-too-common mass shooting. Five missed chances to inform residents of Laguna Beach of the brave step forward taken by our city and six others in Orange County who have decided it is time to wake up to the tragic and shameful fact that gun violence is the NUMBER ONE cause of death of children in America. Not cancer. Not childhood diseases. Not vehicular accidents. It is guns.

Not lost to me, however, is the space given to Assemblymember Diane Dixon in Stu News for her monthly newsletter, which is terrific, by the way. It is important for the constituents of Ms. Dixon’s district to read her recaps and to see the work that she is doing on our behalf in Sacramento. What is missing from Ms. Dixon’s latest letter, published Friday, June 2, the same day we were to honor Wear Orange here in Laguna Beach, is the fact that Ms. Dixon, along with every single member of the California Republican Assembly, recently voted No on the passage of Assembly Bill 28: The Gun Violence Prevention, Healing & Recovery Act. Ms. Dixon and her colleagues said no to the victims of gun violence. No. We are not going to impose an excise tax on the sale of firearms and ammunition to create a fund to help with the costs associated with gun violence. No. We are not going to recognize the long-term physical and mental injuries and the subsequent costs of their treatments shouldered by gun violence victims and their families. No. We are not interested in funding programs for gun violence prevention, education, research and response.

No. The editors of Stu News decided this month to remain silent on guns. This month when the tireless volunteers of Moms Demand Action’s Wear Orange campaign made significant progress in raising awareness at the local level on gun violence, Tom Johnson had no words in his Fair Game column to applaud this milestone.

Saturday, June 3, the Orange County Moms Demand Action group organized a blood drive with UCI and collected enough blood to save 129 lives from gun violence. So, our local group saved a day’s worth of victims. I am proud to stand with these men and women who spend countless hours to do something about the shameful state of gun violence in America. Ask yourself today: What will I do? Because here is the real non-NRA whitewashed truth: Guns kill people. In America. Everyday.

Sarah E Vogel

Laguna Beach

Open letter to Laguna Beach School Board

I’m a resident on Manzanita Drive, and live very close to the HS (high school) pool and tennis courts. The day before the March 23 School Board meeting, I heard, by way of the grapevine, that I should attend the meeting. There would be a presentation that would have an impact on our neighborhood.

With a few neighbors, I attended the meeting. The agenda stated: “STUDY SESSIONS: discussion, information, study session.” As we walked in, we were handed green cards to fill out if we wanted to speak (no questions allowed) at the end of the presentation. How would I know if I wanted to speak before the presentation? It’s usually the other way around (cart before the horse thinking). The three-minute speaking time stated on the agenda was reduced to two minutes. So much for any discussion. After the presentation, I was too shocked to speak. I picked up a copy of the FACILITY MASTER PLAN, SCOPE OF WORK by Ruhnau Clark Architects of Riverside, Calif.

I looked at the plans for the high school trying to orient the plans to my home. Things were all moved around. Then I saw the “DEMO site plan” – everything on the north side of Park Avenue was to be demolished (pool and tennis courts). Plus, two buildings across the street – I was devastated. I thought of all the noise, dust, dirt and debris being trucked down Park Avenue and dumped into some landfill. So much for thinking green. Thankfully, enough opposition was voiced that the School Board asked the architects to reduce the scale and present other options.

In a more optimistic mood, I attended the May 23 School Board meeting to see new options. The agenda clearly stated, “Study Session & Workshop.” Again, those attending were given white cards to write specific questions and green cards to indicate they would like to speak after the presentation. Not knowing the new options, how was I to know? Those who did try to speak were cut off mid-sentence after two minutes. What kind of workshop is it if no ideas or new information is allowed? How can competent decisions be made without listening to information from different points of view? It was acknowledged at the March 23 meeting that a decision had been made, “not to have community input until the plans were complete.” Why?

Why wasn’t there community input from the beginning? Now that you are allowing community input, why are our concerns shut off after two minutes? I live on Manzanita Drive, a street that borders the tennis courts and pool. Residents on this street are and will be directly impacted from activities at the swimming pool and tennis courts, both during and after construction. We should be allowed some serious discussion and input. The present noise and traffic from the high school is a minor disruption and annoyance. Yes, I know the HS was here when we moved to this neighborhood and I should expect some disruption. (Actually, the pool was on the other side of Park Avenue, the pool and tennis courts moved into this neighborhood.) The present Aqua Center plans would be overwhelming and would have a negative effect on the quality and enjoyment of living in this neighborhood. Please, let selected neighborhood representatives work with you to have input that will mitigate some of the foreseeable problems with the proposed Aqua Center.

Patricia Cooper

Laguna Beach

Drag queen story hour in Laguna?

The Laguna Art Museum wants your very young children to attend Drag Queen Story Hour – on Father’s Day weekend, no less. On their website, the museum director and board promise an in-person visit by a “glamorous, positive and unabashedly queer” role model: a drag queen in full costume to help defy “rigid gender restrictions.”

Drag queen storyteller “Pickle” plans to read titles like The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish written by “Lil Miss Hot Mess.” The book, available on Amazon, is advertised for kids from age 2-7. According to Amazon, the book offers a “quirky twist on a classic nursery rhyme by illustrating all the ways to work it.” A companion book by the same author is If You’re a Drag Queen and You Know It. Again, according to Amazon, it encourages kids to: “Strike a pose. Blow a kiss. If you’re a drag queen and you know it…let it show by ‘shaking your bum.’”

If this was just about “art” – grown men wearing outrageously extreme feminine clothing, wigs and makeup – why read books celebrating being queer? Why not If You Give a Mouse a Cookie? Do you want your 4-year-old to be a “little hot mess” shaking his booty and working it? What message is this sending our children?

This issue goes far beyond the scheduling decisions of the Laguna Art Museum – which is, incidentally, partially funded with our taxpayer dollars. More importantly, this goes to the heart of maintaining innocence, which speaks to the larger, recent trend of sexualizing children. They are exposed at ever younger ages to things and ideas far beyond their ability to process and understand, including print and images on the internet that are pornographic.

As a society we used to shelter our kids from overt sexual matters until they were mature enough to make up their own minds about them. It’s worth emphasizing that the book which Pickle the drag queen proposes to read is for children ages 2-7. This is sexualization of children at an extremely early age, pure and simple. Should kids be forced to question whether they are a boy or a girl at an age when they should be learning their colors and letters, and how to safely cross a street? Children used to wonder what they would be when they grew up. An astronaut? An engineer? A builder? A fireman? Now, they are taught to wonder in kindergarten if they were born in the right body or if they should be drag queens.

Drag shows can be entertaining for a consenting adult, but inappropriate and confusing for a kid. Let our children have their childhoods. There are many more appropriate ways to promote the acceptance of other lifestyles than to expose toddlers to such presentations.

It’s time for our community to rally. The very youngest among us need protecting and nurturing.

Our kids do not need readings by fully costumed drag queens.

What is the Laguna Art Museum thinking?

Jennifer Zeiter

Laguna Beach

Laguna Craft Guild to hold show on June 11

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Courtesy of Laguna Craft Guild

The Laguna Craft Guild will return to the Main Beach Cobblestones on Sunday, June 11 from 9 a.m. to dusk. Come by and meet the local artists and find great gifts. This is their last show until the fall. For more information and the schedule of future shows, visit www.lagunacraftguild.com. (Pictured are Blue Wave Bath and beauty cold process soaps.)

Sawdust Art Festival’s calendar is full in June and the 57th Annual Sawdust opens on June 30

Sawdust Art Festival is offering a variety of art classes for June – a program that operates in the festival off-season. From Van Gogh to fused jewelry and castles, they offer myriad experiences from which to choose to get creative, so sign up now.

The 57th Annual Sawdust Art Festival will open on Friday, June 30th and continue through Sunday, September 3rd. It will be open Fri/Sat, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sun-Thurs, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. For tickets, click here.

These are a few of the workshops coming up soon. For a complete listing of classes (and to register), click here.

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Submitted photos

Basic Cartoon Drawing on Thursdays throughout June

–Thursday, June 8, 3-5 p.m.

–Thursday, June 15, 3-5 p.m.

–Thursday, June 22, 3-5 p.m.

–Thursday, June 29, 3-5 p.m.

Basic Cartoon Drawing with David Fleischmann

Tap into a powerful art-form to entertain and influence. This expressive medium is simple to learn and accessible to all skill levels. An hour of instruction with demonstration, followed by an hour of workshop time, questions and one-on-one training.

Cost: $95, includes all materials.

After Dark: Van Gogh Cypress Tree and Star on May 27 and June 9

–Saturday, May 27, 4-6 p.m.

–Friday, June 9, 5-7 p.m.

After Dark: Van Gogh Cypress Tree and Star with Lisa Rainey

Learn the techniques of Master Impressionist Vincent Van Gogh while sipping on a glass of wine! Brush work, color, light and movement are the key elements of what you will be focusing on in this class. Leave with knowledge and appreciation for this famous artist who pioneered new territory and techniques. Gain a sense of freedom of expression, as you play with shapes and color.

High quality art materials will be provided including acrylic paints, a variety of brushes, 11”x14” canvas, palette knife and printed colored reference image. And of course, wine.

Cost: $95 per student. Includes all materials and wine.

I Spy Your Eye Photography on June 16

–Friday, June 16, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

I Spy Your Eye Photography with Mary Church

Join artist Mary Church in this three-part class covering the key principles of photography. In the first part of the class, Church will talk you through the key elements including perspective, composition, color, design and imagery. Then, under her guidance, you will explore the grounds of the Sawdust Festival to create three different printed images (one 8.5”x11” and two 4”x6”) that you will take home. The final element of this class will be a display of your images and discoveries that you made during your time with us.

To participate in this class, you will need to have either a digital camera, an iPhone/iPad, or Android/smart phones (all digital devices welcome!). This class is suitable for ages 10-110.

Cost: $95 per person. To register, click here.

Make your own Indigo Sarong on June 16

–Friday, June 16, 2-4 p.m.

Make your own Indigo Sarong with Reem Khalil

Learn how to make Organic Indigo dye vat and original patterns using the ancient technique Shibori. In this workshop, you will learn the fundamentals of Shibori pattern making and how to create a variety of shapes focusing on folded, tied and clamped resist dyeing. You will leave with a stunning indigo dyed, 100% cotton sarong or scarf measuring 45”x 72”.

Cost: $120.

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LAM has a full June calendar

Many exciting exhibitions are on view at Laguna Art Museum (LAM) and the museum has added more public programs, including innovative workshops and musical performances.

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Photos courtesy of LAM

April Kim and Friends on June 8

–Thursday, June 8, 7 p.m.

Live! at the Museum: April Kim and Friends

Join this string quartet consisting of violins and a cello as they perform in the museum. Please arrive early to enjoy the museum’s exhibitions and social time.

April Kim is a Korean-American violinist and entrepreneur who seeks to utilize her bicultural background, musical passion and business leadership to share the art of music, cultivate partnerships and broaden her positive influence in the community.

Woojin Park began her musical journey at The Special Music School under Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory in Russia, where she developed a strong foundation in classical music.

Hanna Kim, cellist, completed her M.M. in Cello Performance and B.M. in Cello Performance from California State University, Fullerton.

Sungjin Park, viola, is a violist, educator and innovative musician. Growing up in South Korea, Dr. Park took part in several competitions, placing first in the Yonsei University Concerto Competition.

Live! at the Museum is presented in partnership with Laguna Beach Live!

Laguna Live! concerts are partially funded by the lodging establishments and City of Laguna Beach. Advance tickets are recommended.

Laguna Art Museum members & Laguna Beach Live! Members: Free, 

Non-members: $14 per person. For tickets, click here.

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LAM Goes BOOM on June 10

–Saturday, June 10, 6 p.m.

LAM Goes BOOM: A Pride Celebration

This is a vivacious event that honors the legacy of Laguna Beach’s bygone gay bars, specifically the historic Boom Boom Room, once a local hub that drew members of the Southern California LGBTQ+ community for decades before closing in 2007. The evening will begin at 6 p.m. on June 10, with a screening of Fred Karger’s documentary about the efforts to save the longtime gathering place, Save the Boom, in the museum’s galleries. Following the documentary screening, the atmosphere will shift into a lively dance party with DJ SoulFire. This event promises to be a night of celebration and remembrance, perfectly embodying the essence of Pride Month.

“Pride Month holds a special place at our museum, which has a proud history of being an important partner in Laguna Beach as a place of inclusivity,” said Julie Perlin Lee, executive director of Laguna Art Museum. “Art has the power to foster dialogue, promote understanding and inspire change. We are eagerly looking forward to welcoming the community to the museum this June as we come together to embrace the LGBTQ+ community and the vibrant spirit of Pride Month.”

Advance tickets are strongly recommended and admission includes one cocktail for guests aged 21 and above. Museum members can attend for $20, while non-members are welcome for $35. For tickets, click here.

“Quest for Perfection,” 1990, Russell Crotty, LAM Collection, Gift of Stuart Spence and Judith Vida-Spence

–Sunday, June 11, 2 p.m.

Artist Spotlight: Russell Crotty

Join Artist Russell Crotty and LAM Curatorial Fellow Rochelle Steiner for a special conversation on Crotty’s work that’s on view in Southern California Contemporary Art: Gifts from the Stuart Spence and Judith Vida-Spence Collection. Crotty will also discuss his engagement with subjects including astronomy, landscape, mapping and coastal studies. In this public event, Crotty and Steiner will explore ways his work interweaves the natural and manmade worlds.

 Limited space available. Advance tickets are recommended. Museum members: $20, Non-members: $35. For tickets, click here.

Interactive Storytime and art-making experience on June 17

–Saturday, June 17, 11 a.m.

Drag Storytime Saturday

Bring your little ones to Laguna Art Museum for an interactive storytime and art-making experience unlike any other. Read-alouds will be supplemented with mindfulness exercises, art-making projects, or in-gallery activities that promote meaningful connections with caregivers and others.

Drag Story Hour is just what it sounds like! Storytellers, using the art of drag, read family-friendly books to kids to capture the imagination of childhood and gives kids glamorous, positive and unabashedly queer role models. In spaces like this, kids are able to see people who defy rigid gender restrictions and imagine a world where everyone can be their authentic selves.

This Month’s Session

In honor of Pride Month, Pickle (our drag queen storyteller) will read It’s Okay To Be Different by Todd Parr and The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish by Lil Miss Hot Mess with a project afterwards to express yourself.

All children receive free admission. Tickets are required for accompanying adults only. Museum members: $7, Non-members: $14. For tickets, click here.

John Kleitsch, The Artist, 1907, LAM Permanent Collection Museum purchase with funds provided in part from Janet Barker Spurgeon and John Roger Barker

–Sunday, June 25, 2 p.m.

Exhibition Walk-Through: Kleitsch

Join Curatorial Fellow Jean Stern for a walk-through of the Laguna Art Museum’s newest exhibition Joseph Kleitsch: Abroad and at Home in Old Laguna. Gain insight to the curatorial process and learn about the works on view.

Advance tickets are recommended. Museum members: $7, Non-members: $14

For tickets, click here.

Live! at the Museum, Quarteto Nuevo on July 9

–Sunday, July 9, 1 p.m.

Live! at the Museum: Quarteto Nuevo

Join this quartet consisting of saxophone, cello, guitar and percussion as they perform in the museum. Please arrive early to enjoy the museum’s exhibitions and social time. Live! at the Museum is presented in partnership with Laguna Beach Live! Laguna Live! concerts are partially funded by the lodging establishments and City of Laguna Beach. Advance tickets are recommended.

Laguna Art Museum members and Laguna Beach Live! members: Free, Non-members: $14 per person.

For tickets, click here.

For more information about Laguna Art Museum exhibitions and programming, visit www.lagunaartmuseum.org.

Laguna Art Museum is located at 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach.

LBCAC celebrates a summer of exciting events and Juneteenth Jubilee

The Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center (LBCAC) is looking forward to a fun-filled May and the onset of summer and the celebration of Juneteenth Jubilee.

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Jodi Siegel - June 6

Harold Payne - June 6

–Tuesday, June 6, 7 p.m.

 Beth’s Tuesdays, featuring Jodi Siegel and Harold Payne

Concerts are in person and held at the Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center on a Tuesday of each month. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

For tickets, click here.

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The Jordan Ferrin Storyband - June 9

–Friday, June 9, 8 p.m.

The Jordan Ferrin Storyband

The Jordan Ferrin Storyband combines melodic-groove jazz and live storytelling into an experience of connection. It is an experience as unique as it is engaging.

California-born woodwind player Jordan Ferrin spent years traveling the world as a cruise ship musician, inspiring The Jordan Ferrin Storyband. The band’s debut album Tales of Transcendence was released in March 2022 to acclaim throughout Europe. For tickets, click here.

–Session 1 | June 12 and 14

–Session 2 | June 26 and 28

–Session 3 | July 10 and 12

–Session 4 | July 24 and 26*

Essay Hell Workshops: Janine Robinson

(For college-bound students), Monday and Wednesday, Noon to 2 p.m.

$300 pp (Max. 12)

This summer, writing coach Robinson will offer narrative writing workshops for both high school students and aspiring writers. The first will teach college-bound students how to power their college application essays with their real-life stories so they stand out from the crowd. The second will work with participants who want to discover their most compelling personal stories and express them using a variety of storytelling writing techniques. To register for Robinson’s workshops, (#1 and/or #2) click here.

Workshop #1: Ready to Escape Essay Hell?

College application essays can be critical in helping students get into their target schools – especially for the most sought-after colleges and universities. The pressure to write them can be unbearable. A former journalist and writing coach, Robinson believes anyone can craft personal essays that reveal who they are, what they care about and why it matters. Using her self-discovery framework and storytelling strategies, Janine teaches students how to tap their real-life stories to craft slice-of-life essays that set them apart from the competition.

Workshop #2: College Application Essays: A Crash Course in Narrative Writing

In this workshop, Robinson teaches how to write an effective college application essay (for the CommonApp, transfer, scholarship, UC and other admissions essays) and escape Essay Hell. Following her step-by-step writing process, students brainstorm compelling topics and craft them into slice-of-life essays using narrative writing techniques. 

This last workshop is free to students who can’t afford the enrollment fee. Contact Janine Robinson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and ask how to qualify.

–Session 1 | June 19 and 21

–Session 2 | July 17 and 19

How to Find and Tell Your Best Stories

Storytelling Jam: For Aspiring Writers of All Ages

(For aspiring writers 18+), Monday and Wednesday, Noon to 2 p.m.

$200 pp (Max 10)

We all have stories, but how do we remember and recognize the good ones? And then, how do we tell them in ways that make others want to listen? In this lighthearted workshop, Robinson helps participants discover their real-life stories and teaches narrative writing prompts and techniques to make them engaging and meaningful. All writing levels welcome.

Robinson, a Laguna Beach writing coach, spent the last decade teaching students, parents and teachers how to find their unique stories to power college application essays. Her business is called Essay Hell. Before that, she spent several decades as a journalist, working as a reporter for The Miami Herald and OC Register, as well as the editor of local magazines and Internet companies. She also is a credentialed high school English teacher. In her writing workshops, Robinson helps her students conjure up their personal stories and share them using narrative writing techniques. Learn more at www.essayhell.com.

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“Summer of Soul” - June 21

Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center partners with Neighborhood Congregational Church to offer Juneteenth Jubilee, a week of cultural history celebration and education June 19-24.

For tickets to events, click here.

Juneteenth Jubilee – Event and Artist Details

–Monday, June 19 Ted Hawkins: Amazing Grace a film by Janice Engel with post-screening discussion, 1 p.m. $15/$25/$50 inclusive

Ted Hawkins was often called the world’s greatest street singer. Abandoned by his parents as a boy, Hawkins came to California in his early 20s, determined to make a career for himself as a musician. When record deals didn’t pan out and paying gigs failed to come his way, Hawkins would set up on the boardwalk of L.A.’s Venice Beach, singing to passersby for tips. In 1994, Hawkins was signed to a major record deal and released an acclaimed album, The Next Hundred Years, which earned rave reviews and paved the way for a successful international concert tour.

–Conversation with the Sage: Dorothy Randall Gray Speaks – 2:30 p.m. $15/$25/$50 inclusive

Dorothy Randall Gray is a teacher, poet, global activist and author of the bestseller Soul Between The Lines: Freeing Your Creative Spirit Through Writing, as well as Taste of Tamarinda, Muse Magic, Family, Creative Rituals for Daily Living and The Passion Collection. Her work has been published in many notable periodicals and anthologies: The New York Times, Drum Voices, Heart&Soul, SisterFire, HealthQuest and Conditions.

–Chicago Blues musician Brother Yusef – 3:30 p.m. $15/$25/$50

Brother Yusef is a self-taught musician, master solo guitarist and unique vocalist. His performances are raw, honest and as real as the genre has ever aspired to be. Honed over 30 years, he calls his multifaceted style “fattback blues” for its a rich mix of Delta, Chicago and Texas blues with a hard-driving Louisiana stomp.

–Wednesday, June 21, 7 p.m.

Summer of Soul Film – Free admission

In his acclaimed debut as a filmmaker, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson presents a powerful and transporting documentary – part music film, part historical record created around an epic event that celebrated Black history, culture and fashion. Over the course of six weeks in the summer of 1969, just 100 miles south of Woodstock, The Harlem Cultural Festival was filmed in Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park).

–Saturday, June 24 at 6 p.m. VISION, $35 includes Tibetan meal

VISION is the sultry vocal union of Sharetta, Leara (Measha), Shari and Ashley, four young Black women who have been singing in and around Los Angeles since childhood. They will perform all genres of music, from soul and R&B to gospel and jazz, with a natural adeptness at elaborate harmonies and challenging arrangements.

Note that the second-floor Center is not currently ADA-accessible from the street level.

LBCAC has installed a Patriot Air Purification System to ensure a virus free environment.

Grant funding was made possible by the lodging establishments and the City of Laguna Beach.

LBCAC is located at 235 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach.

For tickets and the LBCAC calendar, go to www.lbculturalartscenter.org.

LBCAC has installed a Patriot Air Purification System to ensure a virus-free environment.

Grant funding was made possible by the lodging establishments and the City of Laguna Beach.

Let go of my hand!

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Photo by Michael Roy

This diver comes up with a friend enveloped on his glove

Cultural Arts features Promenade musicians, concerts in the park and Circus Bella

–Friday, June 9, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Stage on Forest - Felisha Dunne

–Saturday, June 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Stage on Forest - Kelly Fitzgerald

–Sunday, June 11, 5-7 p.m.

Stage on Forest - Jason Feddy

Photos courtesy of City of LB

World Music Series - Twanguero, June 16

–Fridays, June 9 and 16, 6:30 p.m.-sunset

World Music Series at Heisler Park Amphitheater

June 9, Firebird Ensemble

June 16, Twanguero

Join the Arts Commission for this free live music series featuring authentic cultural music from around the world.

This program is funded by the lodging establishments and City of Laguna Beach.

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Circus Bella: a modern twist on a one-ring circus…overflowing with Heart and Soul

–Saturday, June 10, showtimes at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Circus Bella at Bluebird Park, 14th Annual Summer Season 2023

BANANAS! with Live Music by Rob Reich & The Circus Bella All-Star Band.

All shows are free and for children of all ages.

Circus Bella is excited to announce their jubilant return to the park with its 14th annual all new, open air, outdoor show: BANANAS! - A Bombastic, Ballyhoo, and Celebration of Silliness. Circus Bella offers a modern twist on a one-ring circus…overflowing with heart and soul. This series of free performances will delight and amaze children of all ages in a treasured family event. The 60-minute shows feature the effervescent Circus Bella Company and a stellar array and diverse talented troupe of acrobats, aerialists, jugglers and clowns from the Bay Area and beyond performing to the live music of Rob Reich and the six-piece Circus Bella All-Star Band. BANANAS! is directed by Abigail Munn (Circus Bella co-founder and director).

More information is available at https://www.circusbella.org/.

These programs are presented by the City of Laguna Beach Arts Commission and funded by the lodging establishments and City of Laguna Beach.

For more information about the Cultural Arts Programs, click here.

Sawdust Art Enrichment Fund receives grant from the Festival of Arts

The Sawdust Art Enrichment Fund (SAEF) trustees are pleased to announce receipt of a generous $4,000 grant from the Festival of Arts Foundation. This grant will aid in funding in-person art classes and instructional art kits created by Laguna Beach artists for military personnel and families as well as other underserved populations.

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Courtesy of Sawdust Festival

The grant will help fund in-person art classes and art kits

The Sawdust Art Enrichment Fund (SAEF) is in year eleven of partnering with other organizations to fund art classes for these underserved populations taught by Laguna Beach artists. Not only has the military benefited from these opportunities, but others include at-risk youth, low-income seniors, homeless populations in rehabilitation and recovery, and more. Grants like this one from the Foundation afford SAEF the opportunity for greater outreach.

Artists Fund anticipates "Exhibit Opening Reception"

Sunday, July 2, 5-9 p.m.

“Exhibit Opening Reception” Invitational

Visit the Art-To-Go fundraising sale, along with 120 artist booths on the Festival grounds. Festival of Arts, 650 Laguna Canyon Road.

Rock photographer Henry Diltz shares photos and stories at The Ranch on July 23

In the world of rock and roll photographers, there are none as extraordinary as Henry Diltz, who shot the most iconic rock photos of all time. Five years after his first appearance at The Ranch Laguna Beach, Diltz returns on Sunday, July 23 to look “Behind the Camera With Henry Diltz.” During this one-night event, Diltz will share some favorites from his 50+ year career and tell the stories behind them with his signature humor and charm. A selection of prints will be available for purchase, signed by Diltz.

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Photos courtesy of Henry Diltz

Henry Diltz to appear at The Ranch Laguna Beach on July 23

In February 2023, Diltz was honored with the Grammy Trustees Award for his significant contribution to the music industry. He has also been featured in several documentaries centered on the music of Laurel Canyon. His catalog includes more than 250 album covers photos, many publicity shots, and tens of thousands of candids. Together they have become an indelible part of our collective story of music.

Diltz’ first sale was a single shot of Buffalo Springfield in 1966 for $100. He went on to photograph The Doors, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Joni Mitchell, Linda

Ronstadt, Jackson Browne, Steppenwolf, James Taylor, Janis Joplin, Jerry Garcia, Jimi Hendrix, Tom Petty, Tom Waits, Bob Dylan, Paul and Linda McCartney, and nearly every other prominent musician and group from the ‘60s 

to ‘80s and beyond. He was also the official photographer at the Woodstock and Monterey festivals. His work has graced hundreds of album covers and was featured in countless books and magazines, and his career continues today.

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Joni Mitchell as photographed by Henry Diltz

His story as a photographer began with a $20 used Japanese camera purchased while on tour with his own band, the Modern Folk Quartet. Doing what he loved every day resulted in archives numbering in the tens of thousands of frames.

Despite Diltz’ lack of formal photography training, he was easily assimilated into the world of music – the road, the gigs, the humor, the social consciousness and the psychedelia. He became friends with his subjects, which enabled him to capture candid shots that convey a rare feeling of trust and intimacy.

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Crosby, Stills & Nash album cover art by Henry Diltz

A few of Diltz’ most recognized images are James Taylor for the album cover Sweet Baby James, The Doors at the Morrison Hotel, Crosby, Stills & Nash on the red couch for the cover of their first album, Joni Mitchell leaning in the window and the Eagles’ Desperado.

As the late Glenn Frey said, “This is not history, this is evidence!”

The main event starts at 7 p.m., but attendees are invited to come at 5:30 p.m. to enjoy cocktails and live music on the Sage Ballroom patio. There is also a VIP Champagne reception limited to 20, where guests will have a chance to chat with Diltz, and also receive premium seating for the presentation. The event concludes with a question and answer period.

Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.

The Ranch is located at 31106 Coast Highway, Laguna Beach.

Murder (and more) on the Links

By Nancy Carpenter

This story is a part of our Arts section. Visit www.stunewslaguna.com/arts for more arts stories as well as our arts calendars.

The Laguna Playhouse has been around for more than 100 years. You’d think by now there would be very little to report. For me, it was a matter of where to begin.

An opportunity to speak with David Ellenstein was the perfect starting point. The Laguna Playhouse board of directors recently named him artistic director, and that is no surprise. For nearly five decades, Ellenstein has carried his talents and the traditions of his theatrical family to more than 300 productions staged across the country.

For us, he has been a familiar fixture in a variety of capacities since the mid-‘90s, and artistic director at North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach since 2003. There, he helmed more than 60 productions, including well-known plays (Travels with My Aunt and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum), translations (The Father) and several world premieres (Becoming Cuba and Words by Ira Gershwin). When asked, Ellenstein wisely hesitated to say he has a favorite. “I love both old and new genres, drama, comedy and anything in between, the whole field of entertainment. And I always like to include a musical in every season.”

If his face is familiar, it’s because he also acts. Locals might remember him as Einstein in the LP’s staging of Picasso at the Lapin Agile. He has performed readings, including Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap. He’s found time to be cast in more than two dozen film and television roles. Versatility has worked for him.

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Photos by Aaron Rumley

(L-R) Jessica Mosher, Matthew Salazar-Thompson, Kim Morgan-Dean, Omri Schein, Brian Mackey and Jennifer Erdmann

 The board also announced the appointment of Bill Kerlin, an expert in the business side of things including finance, marketing and sales. For the last 12 years, he was managing director at North Coast, so he and Ellenstein are no strangers. Kerlin’s experience is not limited to live theater entertainment. He has worked with diverse companies focused on retirement strategies and insurance, and a performing arts company – Camposition – involved in artistic activism, interactive outreach programs and professional development training. While that all sounds less glamorous, financial savvy and the breadth of his hands-on knowledge is critical to theatrical success.

The two men are not abandoning their commitment to North Coast and that makes this newsworthy. They came up with the idea of leveraging and applying what they have done so well together and “transfer” that success – that production – to another venue. Thus, they create a financially and geographically feasible synergy that complements more than one organization and audience.

That venue is Laguna Playhouse.

“Both Bill and I are excited at being at LB,” he said. “We are looking forward to getting to know everyone in the community.”

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 (L-R) Kim Morgan Dean, Omri Schein and Brian Mackey 

And that success: Under their watchful eyes, Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Links premiered at North Coast to become their longest and highest grossing non-musical production in their 41-season history. Why not take the show up the road to the Laguna Playhouse for a run from May 31 through June 18? This could be their perfect win-win example of what can happen when people, theatrical venues, communities and commitment come together.

Let’s look at the logistics. Typical to theater, once the final curtain drops and the applause dies, the cast has a closing night party, stages are struck, everything is packed up and everyone goes home. But what if backdrops and props are moved to another location? Even if that stage is bigger (as it is in this case), it’s a matter of reassembling and repositioning what they already have. According to Ellenstein, Scene Designer Marty Burnett is the “Staff Wizard” when it comes to staging, particularly when you consider the action occurs in England and France, on trains and boats, in cars and speakeasies and bedrooms, and of course, on the links. Burnett created a playground that is “colorful, bright and funny.” Pop-up panels allow props to enter and exit as seamlessly as the actors themselves. Indeed, Burnett is a wizard.

As for the cast of six, their costumes have already been fitted. They know their lines, their cues and each other. They were all-in for another run less than an hour away.

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 (L-R) Jennifer Erdmann, Jessica Mosher, Kim Morgan Dean and Omri Schein

For those of you familiar with Christie’s iconic detective Hercule Poirot and plots with spiraling numbers of suspects, you might wonder how six people can carry off a masterful whodunit with 24 speaking roles. Start with the two main leads played by Omri Schein as Poirot himself and Kim Morgan Dean as Captain Hastings. Yes, Poirot’s righthand is cast as a woman dressed smartly in a man’s dapper suit.

Click open story button to continue reading…

Pizza with a Park Ranger at zpizza on June 7

Come meet the new Park Rangers at zpizza on Wednesday, June 7 from 5-7 p.m., ask questions, say hello and enjoy some pizza. Pizza with a Park Ranger is a community event focused around meeting our new Park Rangers team.

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Courtesy of LBPD

(L-R) Park Ranger Arizmendi and Park Ranger Becerra with K-9 Cooper

There are a total of six Park Rangers now, and they are all a part of the Neighborhood Enhancement Team (N.E.T.).

zpizza is located at 30822 Coast Highway, Laguna Beach.

The Orchestre Surreal featuring Eric Henderson returns to Laguna on June 18

The Orchestre Surreal, conducted by former Laguna Beach resident Ross Wright, aka Elvis Schoenberg, will return on June 18 to perform in Laguna for the first time in 10 years. Popular local classical guitarist Eric Henderson will be featured as they debut a new collaborative concerto entitled “Winter.”

The highly anticipated concert will make a great Father’s Day gift for families to enjoy together on Sunday, June 18 at the Artists Theater located on the campus of Laguna Beach High School, 625 Park Ave.

The event will be a wild and seductive orchestral ride that pushes against the boundaries of genre and dares to suggest a world stripped of those borders. The Orchestre Surreal presents radically different artistic expressions that, in Elvis Schoenberg’s world, have every obligation to collide. The result is a celebratory deconstructing of known and unknown songs with the wit and whimsy of Spike Jones and the musical complexities of Frank Zappa, showcasing the wackiest wacky-savant orchestra of 25 musicians in recent history. Local musician Phil Goff will also be featured.

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Photo by Ronald Dunlap

Ross Wright, aka, Elvis Schoenberg conducts the Orchestre Surreal at a performance at the El Portal Theatre in 2018

Experience a modern-day psychedelic music appreciation course, in the form of a performance event. By cleverly and playfully combining classic rock songs with classical music, jazz and film music, The Orchestre Surreal breaks the barriers of the standard orchestra experience with costumes, stage antics,

and unexpected twists and turns, giving the audience an entertaining experience of the music they know in a completely new way.

The subtext being that, “If all art can coexist and become more enriched in the process, then so can all people,” said Schoenberg.

Eric Henderson is a concert guitarist and virtuoso, trained by master Spanish guitarist Andres Segovia. Over the last 20 years, Henderson has performed 20+ tours across Europe and the U.S. Henderson has played in the famous Concert Gebouw in Amsterdam, Wigmore Hall in London and Ateneo in Madrid, as well as many other halls in the U.S., Germany, Spain, France, the former Soviet Union, Australia and Japan.

Don’t miss this special, rare performance. Tickets are expected to sell out.

Doors open at 7 p.m. for VIP ticket holders (Welcomed early for VIP hors d’oeuvres reception and orchestra warm-up). Only 48 VIP seats are available.

The doors open at 7:30 p.m. for regular admission. Free parking is available. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.

For more information on Orchestre Surreal, visit www.orchestresurreal.com.

For more information on Eric Henderson, visit www.erichendersonguitar.com.

Eco Weekend at the Sawdust Art Festival offers complimentary classes for three days in June

Sawdust Art Festival is partnering with Bank of America for a three-day weekend of complimentary art classes that will support eco-education and land stewardship within the community.

Eco Weekend at the Sawdust will feature 15 exciting projects on Friday, June 9 through Sunday, June 11 that will include the use of recycled paint, found objects, upcycled fabrics, eco-prints, natural plant dyes and more. Workshops will be taught onsite by exhibiting Sawdust artists in small groups of 10 students per class, and will be entirely free to the public.

Due to a limited capacity with a high demand, tickets are required to attend Eco Weekend classes and will be capped at one workshop per person.

This educational opportunity is provided by Bank of America, with additional funding through the Laguna Beach Arts Commission. Thank you to ENCORE Paints for its generous donation of recycled paints.

For more information and to sign-up, click here.

–Friday, June 9

Wildflower Tote Bag with Nancy Villere, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Create a unique tote using fresh flowers and recycled materials in this great introduction to a simple yet age-old flower pressing process.

Photography with Nature with Mary Church, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Join this discovery of looking at nature through a camera lens and explore the key principles of photography. An iPhone or Android smartphone is needed to take this class.

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Photos courtesy of Sawdust Festival

Natural Dyes - June 9

Natural Dyes 101 with Candice Brokenshire, 12-2 p.m.

Discover all the natural colors that are available to us locally and learn some basic skills on how to coax color out of a plant, as well as other various dye techniques.

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Create a denim whale on June 9

Upcycled Denim Plush Whale with Carmen Gundelach, 2-4 p.m.

Upcycle your old denim while you learn the basics of sewing to make a super cute plush whale. Bring your favorite fabric or choose from Carmen’s stash.

Repurposed Paper and Grocery Bag Collage with Charleine Guy, 2-4 p.m.

Turn paper grocery bags, old magazines and newspapers into a beautiful, mixed media collage.

–Saturday, June 10

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Make a sarong into a work of art with Shibori - June 10

Shibori Workshop with Reem Khalil, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Learn the fundamentals of folded, tied and clamped resist dyeing using the ancient technique of Shibori to transform a sarong into a work of art.

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ENCORE recycled paint - June 10

Responsible Abstract Painting with Hedy Buzan, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Paint onto recycled plywood with ENCORE recycled paint. Includes basic color theory instruction and a demo of proper disposal of paint and wastewater.

Mad Hatter Paper Bag Hats with Nansea Williams, 12-2 p.m.

A whimsical journey down the rabbit hole of recycled paper bags. Turn a humble paper grocery bag into a fabulous Mad Hatter Hat with twigs, feathers and leaves.

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Abstract Eco Bag of Love - June 10

Abstract Eco Bag of Love with Nancy Villere, 2-4 p.m.

Allow your creativity to go wild using recycled objects, found natural objects and recycled paint to create a custom tote bag.

Pollinator Plant Drawing with Julie Setterholm, 2-4 p.m.

Experience our native pollinator plant life and discover favorite botanical plants in this class where you’ll explore the grounds and create simple botanical drawings on what is seen.

–Sunday, June 11

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Twig Dolls - June 11

Twig Dolls with Nansea Williams, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Create a sweet folk family of twig dolls using found natural objects from the Sawdust grounds.

Transform trash into treasure - June 11

Household Trash Art with Candice Brokenshire, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Use household trash and natural materials to “feel” into new ways of thinking and working with cyanotype printing that will focus on exploration and composition.

Palm Frond Primitive Masks with David Fleischmann, 12-2 p.m.

Learn to make a decorative or wearable mask from repurposed palm fronds, salvaged from Queen Palms that grow all over Southern California.

Cyanotype Printmaking with Gabe Sullivan, 2-4 p.m.

Forage for found objects and watch as distinctive blue and white images come to life when the light sensitive paper is exposed to the sun, resulting in a unique print.

Natural Oil Painting with Anya Gourley, 2-4 p.m.

Learn the basics of mixing your own oil paints from natural earth pigments and non-toxic oil medium. 

The Drake hosts “Groove for Good” on June 6

The Drake Restaurant in Laguna Beach will be hosting “Groove for Good” on Tuesday, June 6 at 5:30 p.m.

Empowering young lives through music, The Drake restaurant presents this elevated culinary and entertainment experience benefiting The Drake Gives and Save The Music Foundation. The evening’s proceeds will directly benefit music education programs in our local public schools.

The Drake Gives is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) whose mission is to connect, inspire and provide underserved youth with the music education, materials and instruments they need and deserve to fuel their passions and experience the power of music.

Founder of The Drake and The Drake Gives, Alec Glasser learned to play the saxophone in a public school when he was 12. That experience profoundly shaped his life in ways he never dreamed possible, and his wish is for all kids to be able to have the same opportunity in their public school education.

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Photo by Frank Salas

Chris and Danielle Bressoud

At “Groove for Good,” guests will enjoy a three-course meal curated by The Drake’s award-winning culinary team complete with wine pairings from Laguna Beach-based Arrow&Branch.

Multiple entertainers will be performing throughout the evening, provided by Cueva Entertainment.

Auctioneer extraordinaire Zack Krone will be leading the evening’s live and silent auction.

“Thinking globally and acting locally allows The Drake Gives to create sustainable impact, one youth at a time, right in our backyard. Music moves us around the globe, and our efforts will allow the future of music to thrive for many generations to come,” said Glasser.

The Save The Music Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps students, schools and communities reach their full potential through the power of making music. For 25 years, Save The Music has addressed the systemic inequities in music education by investing in under-resourced communities across the U.S. – donating school instruments and technology; working as a convener, expert and catalyst; helping to train and support teachers, and starting and building thousands of new music programs in more than 286 school districts nationwide.

Attendance at “Groove for Good” is available through table sponsorship.

Visit www.thedrakegives.org to purchase sponsorships while availability lasts.

The Drake is located at 2894 S. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach.

LCAD presents Pacific Current MFA Thesis Exhibition at LCAD Gallery

Laguna College of Art + Design (LCAD) is presenting Pacific Current, featuring artwork by the 2023 graduates from LCAD’s Masters of Fine Arts programs in Drawing and Painting. This impressive exhibition acknowledges the refreshing surge of talent, creativity and drive that highlights the relevancy of merging time-honored skills and current ideas.

The exhibition on display at LCAD Gallery will continue through June 25.

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Courtesy of LCAD

Olivia Stude, “Mom and Dad,” Oil on board, 48”x36”

LCAD Gallery is pleased to share this opportunity to view and purchase artwork by the following dedicated and talented artists: Amanda Kazemi, Chapman Hamborg, Emma Yervandyan, Erika Bradberry, Jack Cai, Jackie Nagel, Jason Dowd, Kacy Yu, Kayla Janes, Kelly Jane Smith-Fatten, Marie Saporito, Olivia Stude, Rupy Kaloti and Sumire Kudo.

LCAD Gallery is located at 374 Ocean Ave., Laguna Beach.

Gallery Hours: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, closed Mondays and Tuesdays. LCAD Gallery admission is always free.

LOCA introduces new “Custom” Art Escapes for kids and families

LOCA continues to create exciting events and art escapes for both kids, families and adults to enjoy. Now, you can setup your very own art experience this summer. There are custom workshops for adults and groups, kids and families, and advanced sessions for those who want to improve their artistic skills with personal instruction. Designed for beginners to the most advanced student, lessons are in various Laguna locations, can be in your home or you can take a Zoom class.

“LOCA Certified” artists are offering classes and tours in a variety of Laguna Beach locations. Check out all the adventures and be inspired to receive individual attention, a wonderful time and unique access to some amazing artists. “Custom” Art Escapes are great activities for locals and visitors seeking unique art experiences in Laguna Beach.

This is just a sampling of the “Custom” Art Escapes LOCA offers, for the full listing, go to www.locaart.org/custom-art-escapes/.

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Photos courtesy of LOCA

Heisler Park Walking Tour of Public Art

–Heisler Park Walking Tour of Public Art

Instructor: Mike Tauber 

Enjoy a walk through this spectacular ocean-front park and get a close-up view of more than 14 works including sculptures, seating and floor murals in bronze, glass, metal, stone and ceramic. Unlike a regular docent – your guide Mike Tauber is a long-time Laguna Beach resident and artist who personally worked with many of the artists who made these pieces. The stories will amaze you!

Availability: Daylight hours. Available year-round.

Location: Heisler Park, Laguna Beach

Length of Time: 1.5 hours, five blocks

Fee: $290/event (1-12 people). To register, click here.

Watercolor & Ink Travel Journal Painting

–Watercolor & Ink Travel Journal Painting

Instructor: Mary Gulino

Have you ever wanted to capture the essence of a place by drawing or painting it? Join local artist, Mary Gulino, while she guides you through how to assess a scene and create a quick sketch, control paint flow and transparency with washes and glazes, and explore wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry painting techniques. Finally, each painting and inking will be brought to life with superfine permanent technical pens as you learn outlining and different texturing and shading techniques.

Availability: Upon Request

Location: Heisler Park, Laguna Beach or online over Zoom

Length of Time: 3 hours

Fee: $99 per person (min. 4, max. 8). To register, click here.

Paint-a-Donut Party

–Paint-a-Donut Party

Instructor: Lisa Mansour

Lisa Mansour, a Sawdust artist whose work can be seen at Quorum Gallery throughout the year, is offering this sweet treat. Gather your young friends and meet at Primi Donuts in Monarch Bay Plaza, Dana Point for a delicious snack and a painting lesson. Using one of Mansour’s donut paintings, you and your friends will “decorate” a donut using your imaginations and an array of acrylic paints and embellishments.

Availability: Anytime (two-week notice required)

Location: Primi Donuts, Dana Point

Length of Time: 1+ hours

Fee: $45 per person (Up to 12 people). Groups of four or more can be arranged with prior notice at their preferred park location and preferred day of the week (subject to artist availability.) To register, click here.

Block Printing Workshop

–Block Printing Workshop

Instructor: Reem Khalil

Learn the art of block printing with a variety of materials. In this workshop, you will focus on printing on fabric, but will touch on the techniques that will translate to other materials. Each participant will receive a cotton tote and lots of paper to print their original designs on and take home. If you really get the printing bug, they will also have extra blanks, T-shirts, scarves and cards if you really get into it…once you start you won’t want to stop. These make for great gifts. All supplies are included along with wine and refreshments.

Availability: Upon Request

Location: Artists Studio, Laguna Beach

Length of Time: 2 hours

Fee: $75/person. To register, click here.

Florals in Acrylics 

–Florals in Acrylics

Instructor: Lisa Rainey

Free yourself to be bold and expressive. Lisa Rainey will demonstrate her floral painting techniques step-by-step, encouraging you to capture the essence of the flower by working from life.

This class is about your creative expression through painting and your own view of what you see. Use your imagination and play with shapes, color and line. Rainey loves to use her knowledge and love of watercolor to bring a fresh way of painting in acrylics. Starting with warm washes first, you will build up the layers using thicker paint with brushes and palette knives. The desire is to create a floral painting that glows from within. Supplies are provided.

Availability: Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays

Location: Crescent Bay Park, Laguna Beach

Length of Time: 2+ hours

Fee: $220 for a private lesson, $150 each for 2-4 people. To register, click here.

Laguna Live! Music for Summer

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Photos courtesy of LagunaLive!

Jodi Siegel 

–Tuesday, June 6 at 7 p.m.

Beth’s Tuesdays

Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center, 235 Forest Ave.

Popular monthly singer/songwriter showcase hosted by Beth Fitchet Wood. Joining Beth in June are Jodi Siegel and Harold Payne. Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door.

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April Kim and Friends, June 8 

–Thursday June 8 at 7 p.m.

Live! at the Museum

Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cliff Drive

Laguna Live! welcomes April Kim and Friends, string quartet to their monthly chamber music concert in collaboration with Laguna Art Museum. The concert is free to Laguna Live! members and Museum members; $14 nonmembers. Reservations are recommended.

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MohaviSoul, Bluegrass & BBQ, June 11

–Sunday, June 11, 4-7 p.m. (BBQ 4-6 p.m., Concert 5-7 p.m.)

Bluegrass & BBQ

Laguna College of Art + Design, 2222 Laguna Canyon Road.

A delightful afternoon of outstanding Bluegrass music from MohaviSoul and delicious Texan BBQ by Richard Jones Pit BBQ. This Laguna Live favorite takes place in the picturesque grounds of LCAD. Tickets are $25-$110.

Tickets for all events are available at www.lagunalive.org.

Summer is busting out all over for LPAPA’s June events

The best way to welcome summer is to spend time outdoors soaking up the beautiful landscapes. Laguna Plein Air Painters Association (LPAPA) has come up with some wonderful ways to do just that.

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Photo by Jeff Rovner

Kathleen Dunphy

–Tuesday, June 6 through Thursday June 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Kathleen Dunphy: 3-Day Plein Air Painting Workshop

LPAPA is pleased to present a three-day “Signature Artist in Residence” Laguna Plein Air Painting Workshop with Kathleen Dunphy.

Frustrated with trying to catch the ever-changing light condition while painting outdoors? Always wanted to learn about plein air painting but have been afraid to try it? Need some inspiration to kick-start your work? This class is for you!

Join Dunphy, award-winning oil painter and LPAPA Signature Artist, for an intensive workshop of painting landscapes on location. Dunphy will walk you through her process for creating dynamic, light-filled paintings.

All levels are welcome from beginner to professional. This workshop starts with a comprehensive lecture on the fundamentals of good painting and tips for plein air work. The workshop includes lectures, hand-outs, demonstrations, lots of one-on-one instruction, and painting on location at various sites in and around Laguna Beach. Dunphy demonstrates her painting technique and students get the opportunity to paint several studies in this high-energy, three-day class. Students must provide their own art supplies, meals and transportation to and from painting sites. Maximum of 15 students, minimum of 10.

Tuition: $750 for LPAPA Members, $795 for Non-members

Locations: Day 1 meets at the LPAPA Gallery, 414 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach. Call 949.376.3635. Other painting locations to be provided in advance, as well as a recommended supply list.

This workshop is currently full, but email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to add your name to the waitlist so they can contact you if a spot opens up.

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Courtesy of LPAPA

Paint Party Paint Along on June 7 and 21

–Wednesday June 7, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

“Home Sweet Home” Live with Debra Huse

The “Home Sweet Home” Paint Party Paint Along with Debra Huse will be lively brushstroke-by-brushstroke instruction filled with insightful tips.

Grab your paint and easel and join LPAPA Signature Artist Debra Huse for her Paint Like A Pro four-part Series 15 weekly live online Paint Alongs. Huse will provide the reference photos and guide you from start to finish as you paint along together, brushstroke by brushstroke, to complete a great little painting in less than two hours.

Paint Parties are fun for everyone, from beginner to more advanced painters. See, paint and learn with other artists from across the world. After the live Paint Party, the Paint Along video will be available in your online library for a lifetime of enjoyment. Sign up through LPAPA and Huse will donate a portion of her fee to support nonprofit LPAPA and its education programs.

Who doesn’t love a great farm with trees? Get clean color and thick, juicy paint. Design, light, shadow and color secrets revealed.

Tuition: $59 for an individual course. Go here to sign up.

–Wednesday June 21, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

“On the Lake” Live with Debra Huse

The “On the Lake” Paint Party Paint Along with Debra Huse will be lively brushstroke-by-brushstroke instruction filled with insightful tips.

Grab your paint and easel and join LPAPA Signature Artist Debra Huse for her Paint Like A Pro four-part Series 15 weekly live online Paint Alongs. Huse will provide the reference photos and guide you from start to finish as you paint along together, brushstroke by brushstroke, to complete a great little painting in less than two hours.

Paint Parties are fun for everyone, from beginner to more advanced painters. See, paint and learn with other artists from across the world. After the live Paint Party, the Paint Along video will be available in your online library for a lifetime of enjoyment. Sign up through LPAPA and Huse will donate a portion of her fee to support nonprofit LPAPA and its education programs.

Capture the sunset glow in the sky and on the lake, accentuated by beautiful dark trees. Enjoy and learn while you paint this sparkler of a painting that everyone will love.

Tuition: $59 for an individual course. Go here to sign up.

For more information about LPAPA, go to www.lpapa.org.

Police Beat Primer

Compiled by Suzie Harrison

Police Beat derives from information in the daily police and arrest logs published on the City of Laguna Beach’s website and required under CA Government Code Section 6254 (f). Additional information is obtained through communication with the Laguna Beach Police Department’s Public Information Officer.

Information in the logs is deemed reliable and Stu News Laguna is not responsible for any mistakes made available as public record by the Laguna Beach Police Department.

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