Saying goodbye to K-9 Ranger
Last Wednesday, officers from a local K-9 training group joined Laguna Beach Police Department personnel and Ranger’s handler Corp Zachary Fillers in paying tribute to K-9 Ranger, who started with the department in January of 2015.
K-9 Ranger was recently diagnosed with cancer, and over the last few months, Corp Fillers worked tirelessly with veterinarians to try and treat the disease. Unfortunately, K-9 Ranger’s health rapidly deteriorated to the point where he was in pain and no longer comfortable.
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Courtesy of City of LB
K-9 Ranger started with the LBPD in January of 2015
Ranger, named after fallen officer Sergeant Jon Coutchie who was a U.S. Army Ranger, was later nicknamed Ranger Danger by his fellow officers.
Ranger, a Belgian Malinois, was trained in Holland and purchased through Adlerhorst International in Jurupa Valley, a company that specializes in selecting the finest K-9s for police work. The Woman’s Club of Laguna Beach donated $10,000 and the Assistance League of Laguna Beach donated $12,000 toward his purchase.
Together, Corp Fillers and Ranger went through an initial eleven-week training, consisting of six weeks on patrol and five weeks of narcotics detection. They continued to train on Wednesdays with a group that includes Irvine, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach. Once a month, he and Ranger were trained by their vendor Adlerhorst International (in both patrol and narcotics detection).
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Courtesy of City of LB
Corp Fillers and K-9 Ranger, officers from local K-9 training group, and LBPD personnel
The qualities necessary for a K-9 (which are present in Ranger’s breed) are prey drive (hunting, chasing), play drive (desire to interact with others), and defense drive (flight or fight mode). And Ranger had these in aces.
Before Ranger (who was the department’s third police dog), it had been 10 years since the department had a dog program.
In a previous interview with Stu News, Corp Fillers expanded on the value of a K-9 to the department. “Ranger’s job is finding people and things. He has a superior sense of smell (30,000 times better than ours) to find bad guys and drugs. He’s a big locating tool that allows us (the officers) to keep a safe distance away. He can also move faster, which saves man hours, and allows us to better serve the community.”
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Courtesy of City of LB
Officers from local K-9 training group joined LBPD in saying goodbye to
K-9 Ranger
K-9 Ranger was an extremely popular member of the Laguna Beach Police Department and was loved by the officers and many in the community. Since 2015, K-9 Ranger was instrumental in seizing hundreds of grams of illegal narcotics and several hundred pounds of prescription pills in our community.
Thank you for your service, Ranger.
Laguna Koi Pond: Living art right here in the canyon
By DIANNE RUSSELL
Photos by Mary Hurlbut
The Pageant of the Masters isn’t the only example of living art in Laguna Canyon. For 32 years, Laguna Koi Pond has been the place to go for magnificent kaleidoscopic koi fish – “living art” as co-owner Greg Zuccolotto calls them.
Laguna Koi Pond, only one of two koi fish stores in Orange County, has been in its current location for 32 years. In 1991, Greg partnered with owner Ben Plonski, who started the business in 1989.
It’s no surprise that after all these years, Ben and Greg are encyclopedias of koi knowledge, and the information is fascinating.
In fact, Ben was chosen to be one of the judges in the 2020 All Japan Koi Show, which is like The Westminster Dog Show, but this one is for koi fish. However, then the pandemic hit. The All Japan Nishikigoi Show is now in its 52nd year and is located at the Tokyo Ryutsu Center in Tokyo, Japan. Ben is looking forward to judging next year!
Ben is a self-described “fish geek” and has been since he was seven years old. He started out with angel fish before he became interested in koi fish.
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Co-owners Greg Zuccolotto (on left) and Ben Plonski
“This has been my sole livelihood for 46 years,” says Ben. “I don’t give up. Luck comes to those who persevere and work hard. I was hell-bent on making things work – and when you think that way, life will align with you.”
Greg, who’s from Southern California, went to Cal Poly and has a degree in zoology. He was in construction until four years ago when he retired, and now he spends more time at the store on the retail side. He also designs filter systems for customers and works with builders on creating ponds.
“I have a passion for animals, fish especially,” he says.
Like Ben, his interest in fish goes back to an early age.
“My grandfather was from Italy and didn’t speak English,” Greg says. “He had a goldfish pond at his house and got me involved in the pond and that’s how we bonded. After sixth grade camp, we built a pond at home, and I needed to get fish. So I went to the local exotic fish store and the salesperson said, “Have you heard of koi fish?”
And that’s how it started.
Like Ben, Greg turned a hobby into a business. One to two times a year – for over 30 years – they travel to Japan to buy koi.
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Established 32 years ago, Laguna Koi Pond is open seven days a week
In the koi selection process, Greg says that it’s all about lineage, pedigree, and color patterns. There are 28 varieties, and hundreds of different names depending on the colors and patterns, but three varieties (from the Gosanke family) stand out for their excellence, perfection, and popularity: Kohaku, Sanke, and Showa.
“Once a year, we go to Japan to buy fish from the same breeder,” says Ben. “We’ve been purchasing them there for 25 years, and we trust them. We take photos and videos of fish and send them to dealers/collectors/customers all over the U.S. We also take special orders.”
The business has three components.
“Besides the retail store, we have a greenhouse in Newport Beach where we quarantine the fish when they arrive in the U.S.,” Ben says. “We also have a warehouse that distributes equipment such as filter systems.”
“The breeders are in the Niigata Region,” says Greg. “There are well over 200 koi breeders, specializing in different breeds. We spend one to two weeks there hand-picking the koi. There are pure breeds from championship lineages, and that’s where value goes up. Purebreds range from $100-$10,000 and sometimes, much more. Collectors also order fish from a certain lineage.”
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There are 28 varieties and hundreds of different names depending on the colors and patterns
A Champion Kohaku recently sold for a mind-boggling 1.8 million dollars.
The breeders ship around 108 boxes per shipment for Laguna Koi Pond, 10-20 fish per box in a bag filled with oxygen. It takes 35-36 hours to fly them here.
“It’s a lot of fish and a lot of work,” says Ben. “We have to clear customs and the USDA Fish and Wildlife Department.”
The koi are then sent to the greenhouse for quarantine before coming to the store.
Koi fish are a colorful, ornamental versions of the common carp. Although carp domestication is believed to have begun in China as far back as the 4th century, modern Japanese koi are believed to date back to early 19th-century Japan where wild, colorful carp were caught, kept, and bred by rice farmers.
“They’re not found in the wild,” Greg says. “Koi are a mutation of the grass carp.”
Omnivores, they eat koi pellets, green leafy vegetables, shrimp, citrus, oatmeal, insects, and watermelon.
“The koi become part of the family,” says Ben. “They live 15-50 years.
They’re very sociable, and no two koi are alike.”
“Like dogs, different koi breeds have different personalities,” says Greg. “Some are friendly, some not, some are more anxious and others more chill.”
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Ben with very large koi
“Here in the tanks, they are separated by age – babies, one-year-olds, and two-year-olds,” says Ben.
They house 30,000 gallons of koi in the store and 30,000 in the greenhouse.
Koi lay 100,000 eggs at a time, but only 10 percent are marketable. One out of 100,000 fish ends up in some of their tanks.
Koi are very intelligent – known for their great memory, loyalty to their owners, and for their striking personalities.
Their predators are raccoons and blue heron, so at night, screened lids cover the tanks.
Ben recalls a blue heron who used to hang around. “It waited across
the street for us to open and lift the screens and then it would fly in to get a fish and fly back out.”
Greg explains that pond construction can deter predators. “Ponds should be vertical and three-feet deep. Raccoons don’t want to swim and can’t climb out if it’s vertical. Herons only wade, and they can’t if the water is three feet deep.”
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In the koi selection process, it’s all about lineage, pedigree, and color patterns
“Ben takes care of the warehouse and greenhouse and I do retail,” says Greg.
Laguna Koi Pond has 14-16 employees on staff.
“Each pond takes about an hour per visit for maintenance,” says Ben. “We service well over 250 ponds a month. It’s a very large route.”
Koi ponds are popular. There’s likely one koi pond per neighborhood block in Orange County.
“It’s a fun hobby, but it’s also a commitment,” says Ben. “For example, people worry about what to do when they go on vacation.”
One of the biggest health issues for koi is parasites, but the store carries medication to treat them.
“We did really well during the pandemic,” Ben says. “We were open because we’re considered essential for the koi food. People were building ponds and upgrading what they had and improving filters. We had to hire two to three more employees.”
Even after all these years, Ben admits he doesn’t know all there is to know about koi. “It never feels like you know it all. I question procedures and question myself. I’m always open to ideas and never stop learning. I’m constantly feeling there’s something else I should know – that’s gone unanswered for 30 years. I continue to learn from the customers and the guys on the service routes. I respect other people’s experiences.”
Staff member David “Woody” Wood has been at the store off and on for 19 years.
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Greg with babies
“Most of the staff have been here a long time,” says Greg.
“People are passionate about their fish and want to keep them healthy,” says Woody. “It’s simple and they learn along the way. We are open seven days a week. If there’s an emergency and the filter breaks or something, it can’t be shut down, and we need to be open.”
“There are several koi clubs in SoCal,” Woody continues. “People educate and learn from each other at the clubs and share experiences. They also hold pond tours for fundraisers to promote the clubs and their town.”
For educational purposes, schools do field trips to the store. “We explain the different koi breeds and let the students feed them,” says Greg. “Seniors have outings here, too.”
He points out that having a koi pond doesn’t have to be outrageously expensive. “You can build one for $1,000. Dig a hole, line it with a rubberized pond liner, and get the right filter.”
If you’ve driven past the store and wondered what was behind the gates, stop and visit this amazing property and prepare to be mesmerized by these miraculous creatures.
Laguna Koi is located at 20452 Laguna Canyon Rd, and is open seven days a week.
For more information, go to www.lagunakoi.comor call (949) 494-5107.
LBHS 2021 Graduation
Photos by Scott Brashier
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Celebrating graduating class of 2021
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Yay, I made it!
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Principal Jason Allemann addresses graduating class
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Here comes the future! Congratulations Class of 2021!
For more photos by Scott Brashier, see slideshow below
LBHS Athletic Director Lance Neal accepts position as head football coach at Loara HS
After serving five years as athletic director for Laguna Beach High School, Lance Neal has accepted the position of head football coach at Loara High School in Anaheim.
Mitch Olson stepped down as football coach at Loara so that the school can use a physical education teaching position to hire an on-staff coach.
Neal grew up here in Orange County. He played basketball and football at Irvine High School. He went on to play football in college and then started his career in education. Before joining LBHS as athletic director in 2016, his last job was as athletic director for Beckman High School in Irvine.
Neal is also an experienced coach. He has coached football, track, wrestling, baseball, and basketball.
“With the help of coaches and staff, we managed COVID challenges and were able to get student athletes competing again,” says Neal. “I enjoyed the opportunities and challenges of the position of athletic director at LBHS.
“I am looking forward to working more directly with students and athletes in my new roles of head football coach and physical education teacher.”
Thurston Middle School Graduation
Photos by Scott Brashier
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Parents wait for big moment
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Congratulations from Principal Joseph Vidal
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Next stop – high school
A week of eating with my visiting friend
By Diane Armitage
Two weeks ago, my best friend from Denver (Diana) was in town. People are always asking me where I would send a tourist if they had just a few days here, and to that I always reply, “It depends on what the tourist wants to experience.”
Diana wanted to experience the “local vibe” as I experience it. So, on the day of her arrival, I started in my own SoLag hood, Coyote Grill. Seriously, folks, you can’t come to Laguna Beach and miss out on some of our neighborhood favorites.
Steve made us margaritas and trotted out later to catch up on restaurant gossip and offer a shot of new tequila. Meanwhile the kitchen rolled out my favorite, the giant chicken burrito (minus beans and added green sauce to make it “wet”). It was the start to a very good week of eating.
She ate salads, I tried everything else
On Memorial Day, we joined the throngs downtown, stopping at GG’s Bistro for my favorite sangria in town. Diana also ordered the Arugula Goat Cheese salad, a super-fresh blend with beets, melons, cranberries, and walnuts.
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Photo by Diane Armitage
GG’s Bistro Arugula Goat Cheese salad is a breezy, summery blend
Tuesday was a visit to Sapphire.Cellar.Craft.Cook for a late lunch. While Diana dug into another lovely salad, I opted for the appetizer, Lemon Thyme Confit Kurobata Pork Ribs. These were luscious, fall-off-the-bone nuggets in saucy bourbon barbecue glaze. It was all I could do to not order another helping.
As we dined, we chatted with Operating Partner (and great chef) Chris Hutten. It turns out the Sapphire team was readying to celebrate the restaurant’s one-year anniversary already. I’m sure the year ahead will prove less tumultuous than the first.
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Courtesy of Sapphire.Cellar.Craft.Cook
Sapphire’s ribs appetizer is a memorable event
On Wednesday, we moseyed down the sand from the Surf & Sand Hotel to the longtime local favorite Zinc Cafe & Market. Owner John Secretan was actually there (I haven’t seen him in months), so we caught up on his various enterprises as Diana and I enjoyed our vegetarian breakfast items.
I chose my old favorite, poached eggs on toast, while she opted for the daily quiche offering with a side of fruit salad. Service was quick and friendly, our dishes were delicious, and the patio was its usual people-watching pleasure.
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Photo by Diane Armitage
Zinc Café’s daily quiche offering is always a winner
Oliver’s new spring menu
That same evening, all diets were off with a visit to one of my favorites, Oliver’s Osteria in Laguna Canyon next to the Sawdust. While Chef Erik is never one for loading in frothy, empty calories, his dishes are so rich and fabulous in flavor that you simply can’t stop eating. We joined my dear friends, Kaj and Mary Garmshausen, and there were plenty of bites to share.
Chef Erik has recently debuted his spring menu, and it is alight with lively color and complexities. Even Mary’s simple dish of New Zealand King Salmon was fresh and colorful and cooked to perfection.
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Photo by Diane Armitage
Oliver’s simple and flawless New Zealand King Salmon
Diana opted for Chef’s new Gnocchi Viola. That’s right – it’s a purple potato gnocchi (something I’ve never enjoyed before) in a creamy smoked scamorza sauce.
Scamorza is a lesser-known cousin of the mozzarella family, but it’s one I prefer to add into sauces when I can find it. It’s a super creamy, mild cheese with just a hint of caramel smokiness. It added a great new depth to the gnocchi dish without the stickiness that can occur as gnocchi cools in its cheesy sauce. This luxurious dish could easily be shared as an appetizer, too.
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Photo by Diane Armitage
Oliver’s new Gnocchi Viola is made of purple potatoes in a smoky, rich sauce
Kaj choose the evening pasta special, which also proved a rich, yet light blend of mushrooms and braised pork ragout folded in with freshly made short tube pasta. Topped with paper-thin truffle shavings, it was a rustic, sublime event.
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Photo by Diane Armitage
Oliver’s serves nightly specials, including this mushroom and pork ragout pasta with truffle shavings
Ever a seafood fan, I chose the Spaghetti Chitarra All’ Aragosta. The stately dish features house-made guitar spaghetti with fresh lobster in an arrabbiata sauce, which adds peppery spice to a marina base. It was fresh and bright with plenty of rich lobster pairing companionably with the sauce.
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Photo by Diane Armitage
Oliver’s Lobster pasta dish is both memorable in presentation and taste
Leave it to Chef Erik to knock it out of the park once again. The dishes were lovely, and the service even lovelier. This is a must this summer for you as well as your visiting guests.
Finally, the last lunch
The following day before her departure to the airport, Diana and I waddled over to another favorite mainstay of mine – Harvest at The Ranch Laguna Beach with Chef Kyle St. John at the helm.
Of course, Diana chose salad. Neither of us, though, expected the still-steaming salmon slab atop a mound of fresh greens and herbs. It had to be the largest serving of salmon I’ve ever seen on a salad. She noted it was spectacular.
I, however, was involved in my own spectacular dish, my first try of the Grilled Salmon Sandwich. Chef grills Nordic Blu salmon and tops it with kimchi slaw, miso aioli, sweet soy glaze, and crispy fried onions. Sounds rather simple, I know, but it was simply unbelievable.
In mere minutes, this rather unassuming sandwich bulldozed its way past any other sandwich contender in Laguna Beach. In my book, it’s taken the crown, the throne, and the singing minstrels, too. This sandwich is a game changer.
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Photo by Diane Armitage
Harvest’s unbelievably amazing Grilled Salmon Sandwich
Since Diana’s departure, I’ve done my best to follow her lead – salads, salads, and more salads. This weekend, though, I stumbled into Chef Rainer Schwarz’s new spring menu at Hendrix, his Ocean Ranch-based restaurant. While it’s not in Laguna Beach as are his first two restaurants (The Deck and Driftwood Kitchen), you deserve to hear about this heady and delicious welcome for spring. It was a perfect stop after seeing In the Heights at Cinepolis. Stay tuned this Friday in Stu News Laguna!
Check out my almost daily foodie finds on my social media platforms, below, opt-in for gift card freebies and weekly updates at https://thebestoflagunabeach.com/, and start making your plans to return to the restaurants that never stopped cooking and creating on our behalf. Our Laguna chefs and owners continue to outdo themselves – be sure to let them know!
The best-selling author and blogger on The Best of Laguna Beach™, Diane Armitage is on an endless quest for the most imaginative adventures in Laguna’s restaurants, events, and lifestyle. Check out chef interviews, retail and restaurant news, and favorite events at https://thebestoflagunabeach.com/ and follow on Instagram @BestofLagunaBeach (look for Diane’s smiling face).
Pride Month
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
On May 9, 2017, the City of Laguna Beach presented the LGBTQ Heritage & Culture Alliance with a proclamation recognizing the month of June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Heritage and Culture Month in Laguna Beach
Port High School Student Union welcomes teens for community service
On Wednesday, June 16, all Laguna Beach teens entering 9th through 12th grades are invited to the Port Student Union for a group community service event to paint or sand well-shells for Lido Paddle Project (LPP).
LPP’s mission is to support mental wellness for our first responders and veterans (www.lidopaddleproject.org). Teens can choose to register at www.theportlb.com or show up by 3 p.m. to engage in three hours of community service. There will be social distancing, snacks, beverages, a raffle for all participants, and community fun for those who attend.
The Port is a new student-led teen space located at Lang Park. It serves as a haven for recreation, community, learning, social interaction, service projects, and relaxation.
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A look inside The Port – a new student-led teen space located at Lang Park
Until now, Laguna Beach teens have not had a supervised recreation center to serve as a home away from home. With the pandemic, previous challenges (including substance abuse, family trauma, sachool pressures, and a lack of positive role models) became further exaggerated due to isolation and distance learning.
The Port serves teens with a safe space to enhance the protective factors in their lives. Many students are often left alone and under peer pressure to engage in risky behaviors. With participation from mentors, the Port family helps to build self-esteem, accountability, confidence, resiliency, and self-efficacy.
For community service hours, the Port is working with the Laguna Beach Nonprofit Council and Laguna Beach’s Housing and Human Services Council. Service hours can be earned on site this summer during Wednesday afternoons. To supplement their offerings, the Port partners with college and career counselors at LBHS. Community leaders and entities including LBHS, SchoolPower, the PTA, and the City are part of this collaborative effort.
Some screen-free activities include painting, yoga, meditation, board games, crafts, cooking, sports, and reading.
Social events will include a mixture of weekday and weekend evening opportunities including movies in the park, Aliso Beach bonfires, magic shows, teen-led special events, music, poetry, film festivals, art shows, and more. The team is currently working with community partners to provide incentives and sponsorships to ensure all services remain free. Businesses are encouraged to participate in a variety of formats.
Interested parties may contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
For more information, visit www.theportlb.com.
Where’s Maggi – the answers!
Maggi hinted that this week’s location was not obvious. Guess what? This ballpark scorekeeper is not at Riddle Field – it’s at the batting cages in the Canyon! Who knew? Lots of folks attempted guesses, but there’s only one winner. Steve Chandler gets full bragging rights!
Thanks, everyone, for playing along.
Check in on Friday for a new challenge.
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Sign – not at Riddle Field…
Dennis’ Tidbits
By DENNIS McTIGHE
June 15, 2021
It was devilishly hot one long-ago June
June gloom has been easy on us as of late with plenty of sunshine after the very early burn-off, with afternoon temps climbing into the mid-70s. Local ocean temps are still a bit on the cool side at 63-65 degrees, a couple of degrees below normal for the date.
June 16, 1981, was a day for the history books here in Laguna.
I was living in North Laguna at the time. My bedroom window faced just about due east so the only time it got windy in there was during a Santana wind event. My bed was right under the window, and I kept the window open at all times of the year as I loved the fresh air on my face. It really helped me sleep and I didn’t have to worry about any rain coming in as there was a sizeable overhang outside my window.
At about 6 a.m. on the morning of June 16, I was awakened by a super-warm wind on my face, and it was blowing pretty good at 20-25 mph or so from the ENE. Yep, it was a Santana wind alright, but in the middle of June? That’s totally weird and it was already 82 degrees with 12 percent humidity, and the sun was barely up! Just then my phone rang, and it was my weather buddy Spyder Wills, who lived a block away, and he too was awakened by this freak of nature’s Devil wind, as his window at his place also faces east. We’re both like, if it’s this warm this early, how hot is it gonna be at noon or 1 p.m.?
By 9 a.m. the temp is up to 88 and the offshores are still blowing at 20-25 mph. One of my surf buddies that lives up in Newport calls me and says there are 40 mph gusts up there and it’s also 88 up there with 10 percent humidity.
Shortly after, Spyder and I head down to our favorite beach at Oak Street to spend what looks like the whole day there. By 11 a.m. the winds are beginning to ease off as the mercury continues to climb. Now it’s up to 94. The hot sun is beginning to sting as we’re spending more time in the water bodysurfing the fun little 2-3 ft peelers. The water seems as warm as a heated pool, so we take the water temp near the surface and it reads 81 degrees! It’s becoming too hot on the beach.
By 1 p.m. the air is very still, so still you could light a match and it would stay lit without cupping it. The air temp is a blistering 101 degrees. We take the temp of the dry sand at the top of the beach. It reads an unbelievable 141! You had to have your beach flops on at all times or there would surely be blisters.
The air visibility is so clear it looks like Catalina is across the street. The Island appears three to four times taller. There’s a rare superior mirage going on which makes Catalina look like it’s only a few miles away! What a day! We didn’t leave the beach until sunset as it was still 90 at the time of sunset at 8:06 p.m.! That evening it didn’t drop below 80 until almost midnight!
Bottom line here: That’s why I’m into the weather so much – there’s always a surprise! Have a safe and healthy week and we’ll get together on Friday.
ALOHA!
Splendid surf day
Photos by Mary Hurlbut
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Paddling out for the perfect wave
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One with the wave
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Morning surf session
Laguna Playhouse, 100 years and counting!
While Laguna Playhouse had its centennial birthday during quarantine, the celebration still continues. Stu News is pleased to partner with this 100-year organization and celebrate those people whose generosity has helped make it the cultural icon it is today.
Trustee Lisa Hale has been a significant supporter, especially during the closure with her Bring Up the Lights matching grant. Dan Lauria’s Keeping Live Theatre Alive program was an amazing help during closure. These vignettes from your favorite stage, screen, and TV artists are available for free on the Playhouse’s website at www.lagunaplayhouse.com.
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Submitted photo
Lisa Hale
Glenn Gray leads the Playhouse’s illustrious board, which includes Joe Hanauer, Jim Mellor, Paul Singarella, Heidi Miller, and Greg and Barbara MacGillivray, all who have been longtime supporters of Laguna Playhouse.
Board Emeritus Otis Healy and Ilona Martin have remained critical supporters of their favorite Playhouse even after leaving the board.
Two significant supporters are Board Chair and local actress Pat Kollenda, whose 36+ year involvement with the Playhouse is still going strong, and the chair of the 90th Anniversary Gala, Karyn Philippsen, whose commitment to the Playhouse, and arts organizations in general, is evidenced by the creation of the Laguna Beach Tourism Marketing District. And South Coast Plaza is the first corporate sponsor recognized, an honor bestowed due to their longtime support of Laguna Playhouse.
Find out who else has been recognized at https://lagunaplayhouse.com/about-us/laguna-legends/ and let Laguna Playhouse know who you want to see recognized. And check back next week as we highlight some more Laguna Playhouse legends.
Taste of Laguna Food & Music Festival returns to town October 2021
After over a year without large events, nonprofit organizations KX FM and the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce are excited to announce the return of The Taste of Laguna Food & Music Festival to be held Thursday, Oct 14, 2021.
General admission and VIP tickets went on sale June 4 at www.tasteoflagunabeach.com. More than 40 local restaurants and award-winning chefs will showcase their most popular menu items, signature recipes, and specialty dishes, and live music will be performed at the Festival of Arts grounds. The event is open to both locals and visitors. It will include a silent auction and a competition between participating restaurants and chefs.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
2019 Taste of Laguna fun with The Cliff
The 2021 event will be the second time combining the Chamber’s The Taste of Laguna with the annual concert hosted by KX FM. Canceled in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, the return of The Taste embraces a growing figurative and literal appetite for food, music, and community togetherness that promises not to disappoint.
KX FM broadcasts from Pacific Coast Highway on 104.7 FM and streams to audiences around the world at www.kxfmradio.org or via the KX FM app. KX FM is the home of generational alt-rock, as well as an eclectic mix of music, informative talk, and local entertainment. The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce drives economic prosperity and quality of life for the community of Laguna Beach by being the voice of business, promoting collaboration, and helping members grow their business.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
(L-R) Nancy Pooley, Dave Csira, Stacia Stabler, and Suzanne Taylor
Both nonprofit organizations boast new female leadership this year with decades of combined event production experience. Chamber President and CEO Sandy Morales previously produced The Taste of Anaheim for 10 years while working for the Anaheim Chamber. “We are excited to bring back The Taste to our community, showcasing our amazing restaurants here in Laguna Beach! Partnering with KX FM has only enhanced this annual event with live music and dancing, and we plan to show everyone a good time,” said Morales.
KX FM General Manager Alyssa Hayek is excited for the uniqueness of 2021’s event. “We have such a diverse community of restaurants here in Laguna Beach that allows The Taste of Laguna Food & Music Festival to be unique each and every year. This year we decided to take a global approach to The Taste of Laguna Food & Music Festival since so many of us have been unable to travel. We are able to showcase the diversity of the restaurants that are in Laguna Beach and pair them with music that compliments the cuisine. This way you can feel transported as you eat delicious food without ever leaving Laguna,” Hayek said.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Wine Gallery sharing tasty treats in 2019
General admission tickets are $85 with entrance at 6 p.m. Limited VIP tickets are available for $150, which includes one-hour early entry (5 p.m.), two drink tickets, a private bar, and lounge area. Food is included in the ticket price. Drink tickets will be available for purchase inside festival grounds, with several bar locations throughout the event.
More information and tickets can be found at www.tasteoflagunabeach.com.
Laguna Beach Pride 365 plans to promote local businesses and diversity this summer
Laguna Beach Pride 365 is on a mission to revitalize commerce for all the merchants, restaurants, clubs, galleries, and other businesses in Laguna Beach, according to the nonprofit group’s president, Craig Cooley.
“We have started a new push, with the support of the City of Laguna Beach, the Chamber of Commerce, and the marketing arm of the city, Visit Laguna Beach, to put on a four-month promotional program with an event each week,” Cooley says. “Our program is designed to utilize the strength of diversity to bring new revenue to Laguna and revitalize commerce in the city.”
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Submitted photo/by Kathleen Clark
Councilmember Toni Iseman celebrates a past Pride gathering
The promotion will begin with “Pride at the Promenade,” a prideful weekend event for everyone to enjoy all that Laguna Beach has to offer, appropriately staged during June, LGBT Pride Month. The Promenade, located on Forest Ave, is the new social place to see and be seen in Laguna. This event, aka Pride Day Laguna, takes place on Saturday, June 26 from noon to 10 p.m. On Sunday, June 27, the inimitable Endora will host the famous Drag Bingo Brunch at the Royal Hawaiian from 11-2 p.m.
“Join us for this weekend-long event and the much overdue opportunity to get out of the house for some in-person encounters,” Cooley urges. “Mix it up with some heartfelt camaraderie and socializing. Shop the local merchants, enjoy award-winning cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails. Make a weekend of it as you shake the dust off your flip flops, put on your summer shorts, grab your bronzer, and celebrate Pride Laguna style!”
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Submitted photo
Laguna Beach Pride 365 board members and event organizers
To promote this event and all Laguna Beach Pride 365 events, the nonprofit is implementing a very aggressive marketing effort to reach out to the greater community, including Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Long Beach, and San Diego.
Cooley adds, “Our message is all about the merchants of Laguna Beach and (our city’s) many unique retail businesses, culinary offerings, and art galleries. We’re focusing on local businesses via social media and direct sales.”
Other currently scheduled events include:
--July 10: “Paddle with Pride” Stand-Up Paddle and Sunset Picnic
--August 14: “Pride Beach Party” at Camel Point, aka West Street Gay Beach
--September 11: “End of Summer White Party” dance at Seven Degrees
As subsequent events are scheduled, and new details become available, they will be listed on the group’s website at www.LagunaBeachPride.org.
It’s June 15…what’s new in the battle from “Beyond”
It’s June 15, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has announced that the state is now “Beyond the Blueprint for a Safer Economy.” All sectors return to “usual operations” with limited exceptions while following these general public health recommendations:
--No capacity limitations.
--No physical distancing limitation for attendees, customers, and guests who are fully vaccinated.
--Face mask requirements to follow CDPH’s Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings.
--Travel restrictions to follow the CDC’s Recommendations and the CDPH’s Travel Advisory, both of which recommend being fully vaccinated before resuming domestic travel.
–Verification of fully vaccinated status or pre-entry negative test result will be required to attend “Indoor Mega Events” (those with crowds of greater than 5,000 attendees in indoor venues). For “Outdoor Mega Events” (those with crowds of greater than 10,000 attendees in outdoor venues), verification of fully vaccinated status or pre-entry negative test result will be strongly recommended, and attendees who do not verify vaccination status should be asked to wear face coverings.
Businesses, venue operators, or hosts may choose to:
--Provide information to all patrons, guests, and attendees regarding vaccination requirements and allow vaccinated individuals to self-attest that they are in compliance prior to entry.
--Implement vaccine verification to determine whether individuals are required to wear a mask.
--Require all patrons to wear masks.
No person can be prevented from wearing a mask as a condition of participation in an activity or entry into a business.
Everyone must still wear masks in the workplace, on public transit, medical facilities, K-12 schools, correctional facilities, and shelters. It is important to note that this workplace guidance is being considered on June 17, 2021, by Cal/OSHA, California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health, which may lead to a modification of these requirements.
For more information, view the CDPH’s Beyond the Blueprint Questions & Answers. To find a convenient vaccination location, including mobile events that feature afternoon and evening hours, call the OC COVID-19 Hotline at (714) 834-2000, visit www.Othena.com, or follow the HCA on Twitter (@ochealth) and Facebook (@ochealthinfo).
Laguna Beach Live! continues Summer Jazz Series Wednesday with Kevin Hicks Quintet
Laguna Beach Live! is delighted to continue its weekly series of acclaimed jazz musicians on Wednesday evenings through June 23rd. The series continues this coming Wednesday, June 16, with the Kevin Hicks Quintet and concludes on June 23 with the Brian Clancy Quintet. The concerts are streamed on the Laguna Beach Live! Facebook page and YouTube Channel at 6 p.m. on each concert date.
Award-winning B.A.C. endorsing trombonist Kevin Hicks has established himself as one of the most important and creative voices on the music scene today, both as a performer and as an educator.
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Award-winning musician Kevin Hicks
With performing experience from around the world, ranging in context from clubs and performing arts centers to cruise ships and theme parks, Kevin Hicks is seasoned beyond his years.
After finishing his master’s degree from University of Florida in 2014, Kevin moved to L.A and quickly became recognized. Not only in demand in L.A., but as a guest performing artist and educator on stages and classrooms across the United States and overseas.
Mr. Hicks works at Disneyland and with many bands and ensembles in the Los Angeles area and does extensive recording session work. Kevin Hicks runs an independent online lesson studio and has released the books Trombone Visualizer and Sight-Reading Monster. His methods in trombone pedagogy are truly innovative, especially in the area of music improvisation.
Kevin is featured on many recordings as a sideman, but his award-winning debut album Wave Tripping was released February 2017 and features his many musical influences, special guests, and his melodic prowess through improvisation.
For more information and to RSVP, visit www.lagunabeachlive.org.
Council agenda includes city budget, South Laguna property acquisition, street performer ordinance
By SARA HALL
City Council has some interesting and noteworthy items on the agenda today, including the city budget, an ordinance related to street performers, and acquisition of a property in South Laguna that could possibly replace a fire station.
Up first during the regular agenda today (June 15) is the city budget for the 2021-22 fiscal year. The budget item includes a number of salaries, employee association agreements, and projects. Council previously provided feedback during a budget workshop on May 18.
With the suggested changes, the general fund budget is balanced with a 20 percent reserve of $13.7 million, according to the staff report. The proposed expenditures for 2021-22 are $73.94 million.
Some of the changes suggested during the budget workshop include: An increase to the business license administrative fee from $5 to $20 to offset the cost of outsourcing and automating the application and renewal process; $200,000 in contractual services for the police department for a leadership academy, professional development, and investigation services; and appropriating $1 million from the parking fund for fire station #4 property acquisition.
Also included in the budget is a donation from the Offield Family Foundation of $50,000 in 2021 and $50,000 in 2022 for improvements to Riddle Field. It’s also proposed to appropriate a matching contribution from the park in-lieu fund for both years.
The park in-lieu fund currently has a reserve of $500,000 for the South Laguna Community Garden, which is set to expire on June 30, unless extended by the council. Nearly two dozen residents wrote to council in support of funding the garden, and at least one opposed.
Staff is also recommending appropriating $20,000 from the housing in-lieu fund for a feasibility analysis of housing sites recommended by the Housing and Human Services Committee. An additional $10,000 is suggested for accessory dwelling unit outreach to help engage stakeholders and residents in coming up with solutions for affordable housing.
From the transportation infrastructure fund, staff is recommending $2.5 million be transferred to the wildfire mitigation and fire safety fund for the Laguna Canyon Road undergrounding and other medium and long-term goals approved as part of the Wildfire Mitigation and Fire Safety Report.
Salary changes for the budget include restoring the salary increase of 2.5 percent for city employees that was given up last July to help lessen the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Other requests include an additional $600,000 for ambulance services, $50,000 for a resident and business survey, $30,000 for outreach material for the Environmental Protection Plan, $36,000 for summer portable toilets in South Laguna, $250,000 for police department restrooms and city council lighting, and $100,000 for an assessment of solar panels at all city facilities.
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Courtesy of City of LB
City Council will consider acquiring 31727 Coast Hwy for future civic uses
Also during regular business, council will consider acquiring property in South Laguna for future civic uses, including possibly as a replacement for the neighborhood’s local fire station.
If approved, the action will authorize the city manager to enter into an agreement with Rincon Consultants Inc. in the amount of $89,199 to provide consulting services for the preparation of an initial study for the acquisition of 31727 Coast Hwy and for a possible Mitigated Negative Declaration, if determined to be appropriate.
Pursuant to council direction, the city has entered into escrow to acquire the property 31727 Coast Hwy, most recently occupied by Italian restaurant Ti Amo by il Barone. The city has offered $2.7 million and has three months to complete its due diligence.
Staff lists the need for the property as “future civic uses” in the report.
“While the city might ultimately determine to utilize the property for replacing fire station #4 and/or other public-serving amenities, a use decision will not be made until later and only in compliance with all applicable legal requirements,” the staff report reads.
The current #4 fire station is located at 31646 2nd Ave.
Staff also recommends transferring an appropriation of $37,000 from project savings in the 31526 and 31532 Coast Hwy (at the intersection of Catalina Avenue) environmental analysis project to this project.
Council also directed staff to cease efforts to obtain the other two South Laguna parcels, for which the city had previously offered $1.7 million and had entered into escrow with the owner last February.
“The decision to withdraw from the transaction was due primarily to a complication with the property ownership that prevented the person who signed the escrow documents to convey free and clear title,” the staff report explains.
Subsequent to the uncertain title issues surfacing, city staff learned about the availability of 31727 Coast Hwy property and determined that location was more suitable to develop civic uses.
Acquisition of the new property can be funded using the $1.7 million recovered from the withdrawal of the Catalina Avenue/PCH deal, another $1 million set aside from the parking fund in the proposed 2021-22 fiscal year budget, and $100,000 from the 2020-21 future facilities fund.
Another item on council’s agenda is an ordinance regarding street performers.
The proposed ordinance continues to allow street performances, however, if adopted, performers would be required to adhere to a set of conditions while performing regarding the time, place, and manner of performances within the public domain, including the Promenade on Forest.
“Street performers can provide a public amenity that enhances the character of the city,” the staff report reads. “As such, the city should seek to encourage such performances consistent with the overall public interest.”
The performers can sometimes create public safety problems, by impacting the ability of individuals to move safely on sidewalks, staff explains in the report.
Cognizant that street performers are engaged in First Amendment activities, staff is proposing the ordinance to ensure the safety of performers, their audience, and the general public, as well as to prevent interference with the ability of businesses to operate.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
A proposed ordinance will regulate street performers, including at the Promenade on Forest
A summary of the proposed ordinance:
--Performers are authorized to perform daily between the hours of 11 a.m. and 9 p.m.
--Street performers cannot perform within 10 feet of a bus stop, street corner, marked pedestrian crosswalk, business entrance and driveways, or residential entrance.
--A performer may not utilize an area that would reduce the sidewalk to less than four feet.
--A performer cannot build a stage or use any props that can cause bodily injury or create a fire hazard.
--Performances may not utilize any public benches, waste receptacles, or other street furniture.
Provisions listed would apply to all public areas within city limits, but not private property. Individuals or organizations wishing to perform on private property could be subject to sperate regulations, which could include obtaining a temporary use permit from the city.
The proposed ordinance also includes specific regulations for the performance deck at the Promenade on Forest.
“Since the closure of lower Forest Avenue and the creation of a pedestrian promenade, performers and nonprofit organizations have utilized the stage area and successfully provided ambient music and programming,” staff explain in the report.
Staff recommends a specific process for these individuals and groups to use the area.
Additional proposed regulations for the Promenade on Forest include:
--A city issued performance permit is required.
--The performance deck is available to nonprofit organizations Monday through Thursday between 4 and 9 p.m., and seven days per week between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. for individual performers.
--Nonprofit organization’s performance duration may not exceed four hours, while individual performers may not exceed three hours.
--A single nonprofit organization may not reserve the performance deck for more than 14 days per calendar year.
--The performance deck shall be available to individual street performers on a schedule determined by the city based on seasonality, business needs, and other city programming.
Violations would be considered infractions and subject to administrative fines and penalties.
Earlier in the Council meeting, during the consent calendar, City Council will consider contracts related to the Irvine Cove sewer lift station generator project, a pilot telecommuting program for employees, an update on the summer 2021 festival parking program, and a review of Zoom/in-person hybrid options for holding future City Council meetings.
The council agenda is available online here. The closed session begins at 5 p.m., and the regular meeting at 6 p.m.
To participate via Zoom, you may click here from your computer or smart phone. You may also call (669) 900-9128 and wait for instructions. The Webinar ID is 97603440658#. If you have issues getting into the Zoom meeting or raising your virtual hand to comment, you may text the city clerk at (310) 722-5051.
The meeting can be watched live on Cox channel 852 or on the city’s website at www.lagunabeachcity.net/agendas.
You may speak in person in Council Chambers by entering the chambers through the rear door, speak on your subject of interest, and immediately exit through the front door. A face covering must be worn while in the chambers, including while speaking.
Comments may be submitted on any agenda item or on any item not on the agenda in writing via mail to the City Clerk at: 505 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA, 92651, by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or by using this interactive form: www.lagunabeachcity.net/comment. Email your comments to the City Clerk no later than 3 p.m. on June 14 (the day before the City Council meeting) in order for your comments to be submitted to the members of the City Council the day prior the meeting, which provides them sufficient time to review the comments.
You may continue to provide written comments up to 12 p.m. on June 15 (the day of the meeting). While these comments will be provided to the City Council at 2 p.m. on June 15, council members may not have sufficient time to review them prior to the meeting.
A peaceful day on Ocean Ave
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Silent street before summer starts
Laguna Beach Live! awards scholarships to four deserving LBHS students
Without musicians there is no music. Laguna Beach Live! works to make sure there is great music for all by supporting our professional artists, our rising stars, and our local students.
Traditionally, Laguna Beach Live! gives two $1,000 scholarships to Laguna Beach High School students who want to pursue their love of music. But this was an extraordinary year with exceptional applications and thanks to Laguna Live! Board Members who donated extra money, four students divided a generous $4,500.
The recipients were Samuel Eidt II, James Davison, Nicholas Reardon, and Claire Tigner. These four students, like all past scholarship winners, are very passionate about music and wrote convincing essays detailing their budding careers. Laguna Beach Live! wishes them all the best and hopes that their music will continue to sustain them in the future.
Laguna Beach Live!, a non-profit organization, strives to increase the awareness of and participation in diverse musical experiences, enhancing the reputation of Laguna Beach as a music town. To this end, the organization presents high-quality live musical performances that are accessible, affordable, intimate, and in our community.
Education for our kids is a high priority for Laguna Beach Live! The organization’s goal is to continually increase the quality and number of professional live performances in the city throughout the year, especially in the non-summer months, and to offer educational programs to promote the appreciation of music for the enjoyment and education of residents, especially students. Laguna Beach Live! believes increased cultural activities will enrich the lives of all who attend these events and have a positive economic impact on the city.
For more information, visit www.lagunabeachlive.org.
Providence Mission Hospital named No. 1 hospital in OC by Newsweek
Providence Mission Hospital has announced that it has once again been named in Newsweek’s 2021 list of the World’s Best Hospitals. In fact, Providence Mission was ranked as the No. 1 hospital in all of Orange County. This achievement comes during a significant year – the 50th anniversary of the Mission Viejo campus. The Laguna Beach campus celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2019.
“For the past 62 years, Providence Mission Hospital has provided the most personalized and exceptional care to our community,” said Seth Teigen, chief executive of Mission Hospital. “We are honored to be acknowledged as the most superior hospital in the region thanks to our dedicated team of physicians and caregivers who prioritize patient safety and compassionate care every single day.”
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Providence Mission Hospital in South Laguna Beach
Newsweek’s highly competitive process ranks the best hospitals across 21 countries, including the United States, Canada, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Switzerland, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Australia, and Israel. According to Newsweek, the hospitals named as the World’s Best are at the forefront of adapting to new health care challenges, shaping the future of medicine while providing top-notch patient care.
Additionally, Providence Mission received a number of accolades over the course of the last year. The hospital was recognized by Healthgrades as a five-star recipient in nine critical areas, including treatment of heart attack, treatment of heart failure, colorectal surgery, and treatment of sepsis. And Healthgrades named Providence Mission as one of the top 5 percent of hospitals in the nation for cranial neurosurgery and recognized the hospital with the Cranial Neurosurgery Excellence Award.
The Joint Commission also recently awarded Providence Mission the Gold Seal of Approval for Sepsis Certification by demonstrating continuous compliance with the highest performance standards. This certification evaluates how hospitals use clinical outcomes and performance measures to identify opportunities to improve sepsis care, while also educating and preparing patients and their caregivers for discharge to reduce readmissions.
As part of the hospital’s 50th anniversary celebration in Mission Viejo, these accolades will be recognized, along with spotlighting sacred community moments and stories of health partnerships. More will be shared in the months to come.
For additional information, visit www.supportmissionhospital.org.
14th Annual Fête de la Musique to fill streets of Laguna Beach with music, fanfare on Saturday
On Saturday, June 19, the streets of downtown Laguna Beach will be filled with music and much fanfare when the 14th Annual Laguna Beach Fête de la Musique presented by the Laguna Beach Sister Cities Association (LBSCA) returns. Originating in France in the 1980s, the Fête de la Musique, also known as the International Day of Music, celebrates the beginning of summer and the close affiliation Laguna Beach has with its sister city, Menton, France. The day’s events are free, and promote the lively arts through music by a variety of musicians, singers, and performers.
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Photos courtesy of LBSCA
Returning Fête favorites Angie and Gabe will belt out their crowd favorite tunes near Greeter’s Corner
The day’s festivities start at 11 a.m. on the Main Beach Cobblestones with the Laguna Community Jazz Band playing its swing/jazz sets. This 15-piece band and two vocalists will ignite the crowd until 1 p.m.
From 1-1:20 p.m., the lively Opening Ceremony kicks off with the U.S. national anthem sung by Laguna tenor Rick Weber and the French national anthem (“La Marseillaise”) by singer Lisa Morrice. Adding to the festivities will be welcoming speeches by Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen; Sergio Prince, representing Orange County Supervisor Lisa Bartlett; and Karyn Philippsen, founding president of the Laguna Beach Sister Cities Association.
Additional performances continuing throughout the day at Main Beach include the six-member Agave Bros. band with Amanda Reid from 1:20-3 p.m.; JJ and the Habibis, Laguna Beach belly dancers from 3-3:20 p.m.; and The CoverUps, an 80s cover band in costume, from 3:20-5 p.m. The Closing Ceremony culminates the day from 5-5:10 p.m.
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Chanteuse April Walsh will be singing on the front steps of 2bella Boutique
Concurrently, starting at 1:30 p.m., there are performances at a variety of locations throughout the streets of downtown Laguna and up to the HIP District. Over the years, most of the performers are returnees from previous Fêtes. Two of the Fête’s longest-serving entertainers are Lenelle Hamil and April Walsh. Counting last year’s virtual-only Fête, at which each of them performed, Hamil will be singing in her ninth consecutive Fête and Walsh in her 10th.
Hamil is performing out front of Moulin Bistro and Walsh at 2bella Boutique, both in the 200 block of Forest Avenue. Hamil is a singer/songwriter/guitarist who performs many of her own songs, while Walsh is a true chanteuse, singing French café songs along with American classics. Both have distinguished themselves with their loyalty and consistency.
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Catch singer/songwriter/guitarist Lenelle Hamil in front of Moulin Bistro
Here are just some of the noteworthy places to stop by as you wander throughout the village:
--Greeter’s Corner Restaurant (Main Beach) will once again host Angie and Gabe, who hail from Mentone, Calif., near San Bernardino. Gabe, who is in his 80s, charms his audience with his Frank Sinatra tunes, as does Angie with her renditions of songs by several different women, including Patsy Cline, complete with a fringed buckskin jacket.
--Carmelita’s is a new venue for Fête and will be hosting performers in the courtyard for the enjoyment of restaurant patrons at 217 Broadway.
--Grace Gallery, a new high-end art gallery with a photogenic collection, will host Keith Comer, singer/guitarist at 347 S Coast Hwy.
--Free People, the new clothing shop on the Promenade, will have Laguna tenor Rick Weber performing in their space at 225 Forest.
--Dawson Cole will host opera singer Sheryl Lynn Smith in their sculpture garden as well as violinist Raven at their front entrance on Glenneyre.
For those wanting to take a relaxing break, all the new outdoor dining venues will be providing the perfect respite for an alfresco meal or thirst quencher.
The Laguna Beach Fête de la Musique is grateful for the continued collaboration with the City of Laguna Beach, Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce, Visit Laguna Beach, and Orange County Supervisor Lisa Bartlett.
COVID guidelines will be strictly observed.
Save the date for next year’s Fête de la Musique, taking place Saturday, June 18, 2022.
For more information about Fête de la Musique and the Laguna Beach Sister Cities Association, visit www.lagunabeachsistercities.com.
Laguna Beach Rotary Club names Ceese Djerf as Student of the Month for June
As the final selection of the school year for Laguna Beach Rotary Club’s Student of the Month, the club has chosen Ceese Djerf to receive the award.
Rotarians understand the importance of our community’s youth. Guided by this understanding the membership established a student recognition program –
one that recognizes achievement, leadership, and helps to support high school students in their transition to higher education. Every month the Rotary Club selects a student of the month (SOM). All SOMs receive a $500 scholarship.
Ceese was born in the Ukraine and became a U.S. Citizen when her parents adopted her at 16 months of age.
“I have lived in Chicago and Laguna Beach,” says Ceese. “My interests include aviation and dance, especially modern and classic ballet. I like dancing, going to the library, and scrapbooking.”
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Submitted photo
Ceese Djerf receives Student of the Month honors from the Laguna Beach Rotary Club for June
Her activities include Vocational Education field trips, indoor and outdoor exercising, and preparing presentations on her school computer. Ceese participated in Vocational Education and dance all four years of her high school career.
As for extracurricular activities, Ceese says, “I enjoy community events like Coffee with a Cop, Tip a Cop, Bike Rodeos, Winter Fest, the Sawdust Festival, and the Pageant of the Masters.” She also has a large collection of books at home.
After graduation, she plans to start the Adult Transition Program at Capistrano Unified in San Juan Capistrano, including classes at Saddleback Community College. “I look forward to this opportunity to learn, develop social skills, and meet new people,” Ceese says.
She is hoping that her interests in aviation, libraries, and dance will lead to career opportunities.
“Being selected as a Laguna Beach Rotary Student of the Month is a special honor,” says Cleese. “I appreciate the generosity shown to me. Thank you.”
“Ten Boys Who Care” deliver 612 pounds of food to Laguna Food Pantry
On June 6, “Ten Boys Who Care” delivered a whopping 612 pounds of much-needed food to the Laguna Food Pantry. The “Ten Boys Who Care” organization began in 2013, intending to raise monies each year to award two Laguna Beach High School graduating seniors with scholarships totaling $2,300. The student-athletes selected, one male and one female, exemplified good sportsmanship and positively impacted those around them.
The boys participate in fundraising events throughout the year, focusing on community service and goodwill. The group consists of current LBHS juniors –
most have been members since eighth grade.
During a three-week period, the boys reached out to friends, relatives, and neighbors for donations. The results were amazing as they collected 612 pounds of food.
“Ten Boys Who Care 2.0” are the predecessors to the original ten boys who graduated from LBHS in 2020. This new group took over in their eighth grade year and now they are rising juniors.
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Submitted photo
Members (L-R): Ben Neufeld, Nico Cambruzzi, Noah Liao, Coleman Judd, Brandon Yee, Luke Meisberger, and Taylor Towe. Not pictured: Will Goodwin, Jake Lund, and Miles Freeman.
“We look forward to doing more for our community like the food drive we just had,” says member Taylor Towe. “It feels so good to know we are helping others less fortunate.”
“Since joining the group, we have had the opportunity to give back to our community and senior athletes by raising over $4,800,” says member Luke Meisberger. “This allowed us to give scholarships to four amazing Laguna Beach graduates! It is rewarding to be able to give back to the community.”
For the most part, they have given the scholarship awards but due to the pandemic last year into this year, they had been unable to do more within the community. They just began meeting up again and brainstorming what events they want to create or participate in to help others. Their first thought was holding a food drive to donate to the Laguna Food Pantry.
“The biggest fundraiser we have every year has been the annual garage sale. The last one we were able to have was pre-pandemic and it raised $1,700,” says Vickie Vela. “Unfortunately due to COVID-19, we have been unable to raise money for the annual scholarships. We will be coming up with other ways for raising the scholarship for 2022 graduates.”
In addition, this year they are collaborating with another organization to help to reach other community students in need of school bags and supplies.
They always welcome donations and appreciate the community’s support.
Please send checks to: Ten Boys Who Care c/o Terri Meisberger, 668 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA, 92651.
For more information, go to: www.tenboyswhocare.org/home.html.
JoAnne Artman Gallery presents That 70s Show: Saturday Night Fever II
JoAnne Artman Gallery is proud to present its next exhibition, That 70s Show: Saturday Night Fever II, featuring Greg Miller, John “Crash” Matos, Michael Callas, Anja Van Herle, and Jana Cruder, from June 28-August 28.
“Listen to the ground
There is a movement all around
There is something goin’ down
And I can feel it”
–“Saturday Night Fever,” Bee Gees, 1977
The soundtrack of the 1970s was disco, the culturally dominating force that conjures images of clubs filled with the psychedelic haze of flashing strobe lights, grooving bodies on the dance floor, and white leisure suits just as much as it recalls the beat-driven party music. Disco represented not only a new musical genre, but also a cultural revolution rooted in liberation and freedom of expression.
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“Inner Compass” by Jana Cruder
Coinciding with a time of social and political upheaval, disco was an agent for change. Linked to racial politics and sexual liberation movements, disco embraced marginalized gay, black, and Latino communities before eventually attracting a commercial, mainstream audience. Quickly spreading worldwide, disco’s attitude of inclusivity provided a safe haven for artists, musicians, designers, and outcasts who were able to explore creativity, identity, and self-expression in bold, new ways.
That 70s Show: Saturday Night Fever II provides a glimpse into the glamour, rebellion, and acceptance of the era, with each artist capturing its feelings of nostalgia and freedom. Replicating the iconography and high-energy rhythms of disco music, the show demonstrates the indelible impact the music had on our lifestyle, fashion, culture, and art.
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Nja Van Herle – “What the Duck”
Integrating image and text with moments of poetic juxtaposition and historical allusion, Greg Miller often uses archival texts, illustrations, newspaper, and photographs as a base. Completing the works with elements of typography as well as the painted form, he produces optic landscapes of great narrative depth. With each piece chronicling the past, present, and future, Miller’s unique brand of Americana celebrates and notes society’s ties to the iconic imagery that transcends the passage of time.
John “Crash” Mato’s process is rooted within his identity as a Bronx-born graffiti artist, having come of age in Bronx of the late 1970s. As a young teen, Crash (b. John Matos) ran with the local kids, tagging subway cars, creating large murals, perfecting his style, and making a name for himself amongst the NYC visual landscape while also pioneering a new age for graffiti. One of the first graffiti artists to make the transition to canvas, he creates all his work from freehand, showcasing vibrant compositions reminiscent of pop art while reflecting his own signature style that combines text with human forms.
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Submitted photo
Untitled Diptych by John “Crash” Matos
Rooted in Pop art, street art, graphic design, and his life in Southern California, Michael Callas’ paintings are done with spray paint and precise stencil work. Intricately produced through a rigorous process of drafting, mapping, and hand-cutting precise templates before being transposed onto canvas with aerosol paints, Callas creates a surface that is uniform and rich in color. Remaining true to his practice, Callas meticulously maps out color planes of saturated hues and gray tones, crafting dimensionality and dramatic light sources on his subjects. Applying his distinct approach of working in aerosols, Callas explores the famous character archetypes and narratives throughout history.
Mixing classical and contemporary ideas of fashion, self-expression, and beauty, Anja Van Herle’s dramatic interplay of detail and vibrant color tells stories of the past and present. Maintaining her emblematic lux and feminine approach (complete with the adornment of Swarovski crystal), Van Herle cites the satirical phenomenon of Disco Duck. Referencing the novelty hit by Rick Dees and “His Cast of Idiots,” she touches on the playful musical craze and its imprint on the disco era.
Set in the early 1970s, Jana Cruder’s new photography series, We Knew Then, navigates the domestic and sexual roles of women in society. Imploring her viewers to consider the socioeconomic drivers of consumerism, financial earnings, and the haunting expectation of motherhood, Cruder’s depiction of the 70s reflects the enduring female desire to make change in a world that seems un-changeable.
“I love music
Any kind of music
I love music, just as
Long as it’s grooving”
–I Love Music, The O’Jays, 1975
These artists’ work will inspire, provoke, engage, and mesmerize. With visual perceptions always changing, peek behind the stories told and you’re sure to find the right artistic expression.
JoAnne Artman Gallery is located at 326 N Coast Hwy, and is open by appointment.
For more information, contact JoAnne Artman at (949) 510-5481, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or go to www.joanneartmangallery.com.
Dr. Anita Wang, MD to host Community Vitality Celebration on Thursday
On Thursday, June 17 from 3-6 p.m., Dr. Anita Wang will offer free Emsculpt and Emsella mini-treatments as part of her Community Vitality Celebration, an expression of gratitude to her patients and the community.
These two medical devices help patients strengthen their muscles for increased mobility, stability, metabolism, and mood. The Emsculpt works on abdominals, glutes, arms, and legs for strength and definition, while the Emsella chair tightens the pelvic floor for improved intimacy and bladder control. Both are alternatives to prescription medications and surgical procedures, and are known for their gentleness.
Dr. Anita, as she likes patients to call her, and staff will also be available to answer questions on what functional medicine is, how integrative medicine blends conventional and holistic medicine, wellness assessments, true optimal health, and how taking a lifestyle, non-invasive approach to health care can be affordable, gentle, and effective for longevity and vitality.
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Dr. Anita Wang is hosting a Community Vitality Celebration event on Thursday, June 17
Raffles and goodie bags will be provided from Dr. Anita’s office and other local businesses, along with light refreshments. Attendees will also earn extra raffle tickets for tagging her on Instagram @anitawang_md #askdranita with their own wellness posts from the event.
The Community Vitality Celebration will also benefit Laguna’s first responders, who will receive a full Emsculpt treatment that day when they attend the event. She could not have done her job during this pandemic without the help of her fellow doctors, nurses, firefighters, law enforcers, EMTs, paramedics, and other rescue team members, and hopes the community will help her in recognizing their efforts at the event.
Dr. Anita believes that we all benefit when we focus on our individual health. When she was working in the Emergency Room during COVID, it was her greatest wish for individuals to be diligent in protecting themselves – wearing masks, staying distanced, and later, getting vaccinated. Above all, she firmly believes the key to community health lies in education about each individual’s true optimal health.
When asked about the extreme variance in COVID symptoms from her patients, she returns to the fundamentals of functional medicine. “Why does an 80-year-old get a mild case and a 20-year-old a severe case? The 80-year-old may watch their diet, eat no processed food, and limit sugar, and the younger patient may not. It’s not age; it’s the health of the host. Contrary to popular belief, health is only 25 percent genetics, and more importantly, 75 percent lifestyle.”
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Dr. Anita Wang will offer complimentary Emsella and Emsculpt mini-treatments on Thursday, June 17
Dr. Anita feels that we need to become a more resistant, resilient host to fight off this virus and diseases in general. In her practice, her goal is to help people before they develop illness or disease, by building up their unique immune systems and optimizing their cellular function.
Living proof that Dr. Anita’s approach works: her 90-year-old mother Mrs. Wang, who is living with more vitality today than most individuals half her age do. “In one day, my mom gets up, sweeps her deck and cleans her apartment, plays nine holes of golf, practices tap dancing, gets on Zoom for her Zumba class, does her eccentric exercises, and goes for her 8,000-step daily walk. She also works on her brain by reading and doing some Sudoku. She keeps her core to floor muscles strong with the Emsella and Emsculpt, which has helped with her energy, mood, and sleep. She no longer gets up every two hours like before and sleeps through the entire night.
“Friends my own age take a year to do some of these activities. She does them all in one day! To top it all off, she is taking personalized supplements I prescribe her to keep her micronutrients, gut, and hormones balanced. She feels she has more energy and a greater well-being than ever before.”
To schedule a treatment time at the Community Vitality Celebration, RSVP at www.eventbrite.com/e/158279840263/ so that a staff member can contact you to schedule your time slot. Walk-ins are also welcome, but RSVPs are highly recommended. Swag bags will be available for registered attendees while supplies last.
Dr. Anita hopes the community will assist her in spreading the message about this event and her services. Though she has saved countless lives in the ER, she believes the true power lies within everyday individuals who encourage their friends and family to adopt and maintain healthy habits today and every day.
Dr. Anita Wang, MD – Wellness, Longevity & Aesthetics is located at 255 Thalia St, Suite B. For more information, visit www.anitawangmd.com.
Meet Pet of the Week Barley
Barley is currently taking over Pet of the Week. He is a neutered 6-year-old sweet flame point Siamese cat. Barley is very affectionate and is known to talk a lot. On his search for a new home, Barley is very adaptable and will do good in any place that fosters love. Nancy Goodwin, shelter director, is hoping to have Barley adopted as soon as possible.
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Barley is a sweet companion to have by your side
The Laguna Beach Animal Shelter adoption procedures are designed to make sure that both the potential family and the animal adopted are in the very best situation possible. Due to their approach to adoption, the shelter’s return rate is five percent as compared to the national return rate of 50 percent.
The LB Animal Shelter is located at 20612 Laguna Canyon Rd. For information on adoption procedures, call (949) 497-3552 or go to www.puplagunabeach.org/our-pets.php.
The Mermaid Store offers a myriad of magical merchandise with ecology in mind
By DIANNE RUSSELL
Photos by Mary Hurlbut
Mermaids – those half-human, half-fish sirens of the sea – are legendary sea creatures chronicled in maritime cultures since time immemorial. The ancient Greek epic poet Homer even wrote about them in The Odyssey.
The belief in mermaids may have arisen at the very dawn of our species. Magical female figures first appear in cave paintings in the late Paleolithic (Stone Age) period some 30,000 years ago.
Some non-believers call them “imaginary beings,” but who really knows?
Clearly, The Mermaid Store is no place for doubting Thomases, especially when surrounded by enchanting items such as mermaid tails (for pool swimming), mermaid costumes, jewelry, clothing, paintings, baking kits, shell sunglasses, beach sandals, and pretty much anything related to these beguiling water nymphs.
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The Mermaid Store owner Daniel Raczkowski
Daniel Raczkowski, owner of The Mermaid Store across from Main Beach, opened his unique shop in 2018, a year after he introduced his first Mermaid Store in Newport Beach at the ferry landing.
Laguna residents (and visitors) will be delighted to discover that the majority of merchandise in the shop is environmentally friendly. The preservation of our oceans is a topic that Raczkowski is passionate about and having mermaids as the focus of the store seems the perfect way to raise awareness of the importance of taking care of the place they call home.
“When visitors come in, we try to start a discussion about ecology and the environment and try to educate them. It might help change the issues we’re facing with pollution,” says Raczkowski.
What makes more sense than to pair mermaids with the preservation of our oceans, as after all, they are privy to the wonders of the sea.
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A world of wonder
Mermaids (and Mermen) draw the attention of all ages – young, old, men, and women – and the shop is the perfect place to educate kids on taking care of our planet from an early age.
“Europe is much more advanced than the U.S. in terms of ecology,” he says. “I was interested in carrying a lot of environmentally friendly items. As a result, I do my own research and buying.”
Originally from Lower Silesia in Poland, Raczkowski arrived in Orange County 12 years ago and fell in love with this area. Even though his family is still in Poland, he considers the friends he’s made here “family.”
An interior designer, Raczkowski attended the Interior Design Institute in Newport Beach, and continues to maintain his design business.
Products
Once he opened The Mermaid Store here in Laguna, he became acquainted with local artists and artisans and supports their work by featuring it in his shop. “I made some great connections with artists,” he says. “Most of the products I carry are eco-friendly and made locally.”
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All manner of undersea items
For example, The Sea Star Sparkle glitter sunscreen they feature is biodegradable, dissolves in two weeks, and contains no micro-plastic – which is usually present in glitter. Once washed off, the micro-plastic goes down the drain and into the ocean. The fish eat it and then we eat the fish – not a great scenario.
Raczkowski also carries a wide variety of products made from recycled materials. Not only are the 4 Ocean bracelets made from recycled materials, every bracelet purchased funds the removal of one pound of trash from the ocean and coastlines.
The vast array of Sea Sparkles mermaid dolls are made by Aurora and are very much in demand. In 2018, Aurora World began transitioning its products into “Eco-Friendly” plush. The change began by using 100 percent biodegradable pellets (made from recycled materials).
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Mermaid dolls
All of their shipping boxes are made from recycled materials. Aurora is saving over 400,000,000 plastic bottles globally on an annual basis, contributing to a greener world by producing all of its plush using eco-friendly materials.
Local artists
Local artists Raczkowski features are: Custom jewelry made from recycled metal by Kate Mesta, Jeff Sherman – Sand mermaid, Alexader Peuchot – mermaid lips, Molly O’Meara – mermaid paintings, and Mario Sandoval’s mermaid paintings, mermaids crowns, and jewelry.
Even artist and ocean ecologist Wyland has some ocean-themed reusable bottles in the store.
“We also make our own soy candles,” Raczkowski says.
The Mermaid Store clothing designs are one of a kind. Popular items are the T-shirts that Raczkowski designs and has printed with various sayings.
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The amber jewelry is imported from Poland
Additionally, Raczkowski has collaborated with Lori Art and Designing 4 Hope foundation. All proceeds from the mermaid flip flops go to Designing Hope, which designs rooms for children with cancer.
As a note to mermaid fans – the demand for mermaid costumes is gearing up for Halloween, so if you are planning on dressing up as one, now is the time to order.
Staff
The Mermaid Store has two staff members, Jana and Jerica. “They are very loyal and I completely trust them,” says Raczkowski. “I tried to help support them as much as I could during the pandemic.”
“What I love most about working at The Mermaid Store are all the beautiful little/young girls that come in who want to be Mermaids,” says Jana. “Our customers are so happy and thrilled to experience The Mermaid Store.”
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Metal multi-use straws to replace plastic straws
Before the pandemic, there was a mermaid impersonator on site on occasion so visitors could interact with her. The store also furnished the mermaids for the Mermaid Brunch at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point (before the pandemic). Hopefully, at some point, they’ll be able to resume these events.
“The pandemic was a tough time,” says Raczkowski. “Both stores were closed. Thankfully, we had online sales, and I used social media to bring attention to the online store. My interior design business kept me afloat during the pandemic. I was considered essential and never had a day off.”
So, take the plunge into The Mermaid Store, a most captivating and bewitching shop. It’s like entering another world that you won’t want to soon leave.
The Mermaid Store is located at 210 N Coast Hwy.
They are open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
For more information, go to www.the-mermaid-store.com, call (949) 371-0444, and follow The Mermaid Store on Instagram and Facebook.
“Art in Public Places” – Boy and Dog by Ruth Peabody
By DIANNE RUSSELL
Photos by Mary Hurlbut
This is the fourteenth in our weekly series featuring Art in Public Places. Since there are over 100 pieces of public art scattered throughout Laguna, it will take a while to cover them all.
The art you see around Laguna Beach is the result of two city programs: “Public Art and Murals” and “Art in Public Places.” The goals of the Public Art and Murals and Art in Public Places (adopted in 1986) initiatives are to create diverse art installations of the highest quality that will, over decades, reflect the city itself and its citizens, and improve the quality of life; and to be a source of pride to all Laguna Beach residents.
Installed in 1933, Boy and Dog is said to be the oldest public art installation in Laguna. Created by Ruth Peabody, the bronze statue with its green patina sits at the corner of Upper Cliff Drive and Pacific Coast Highway at a tiny park called Jahraus Park.
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“Boy and Dog” – Oldest public art installation in Laguna
The park is named after Elmer Jahraus who came to Laguna in 1903. He was involved with many artists’ projects until 1927, the year the city incorporated.
According to an article in Stu News (in 2018), the late Richard Jahraus used to say he was [the model for] the boy at age three years old. He claimed he was teased unmercifully about his sculpted bare backside.
The statue celebrates Elmer Jahraus’ commitments to Laguna Beach. Most people who pass by it are enchanted by its presence.
In 2008, it was lovingly restored by artist Cheryl Ekstrom before she passed away, and the replacement of the boy’s arm was funded in part by Laguna Beach resident Mark Porterfield.
It was rededicated in April of 2009 after a three-month restoration, which included a new base, plumbing, a dog water basin, and plants as part of the process.
In 2018, local bronze sculptor George Stripling was hired by the city to remove an undetermined liquid that was sloshed onto it.
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The late Richard Jahraus used to say he was [the model for] the boy at age three years old
Ruth Eaton was born in Highland Park, Illinois, on March 30, 1893. Her earliest art instruction was under her mother, Eleanor Colburn, who was an accomplished artist. She then became a student at the Art Institute of Chicago. Ruth married Hugh Kingman Peabody in 1918 in New Hampshire where the couple remained for five years.
In 1923, the couple, accompanied by her mother, moved to Laguna, where mother and daughter embraced the culture of the Laguna Beach art colony, each becoming active members of the Laguna Beach Art Association. The two artists shared a home studio, and although their early work is similar in style, they each created a distinct body of work, with Ruth working in both painting and sculpture.
A respected art instructor at Laguna Beach High School, Ruth became a private instructor as well. During her career, she created sculpture and painted portraits, landscapes, and still lifes, in a post-impressionist style, working in both oil and in watercolor.
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“Boy and Dog” – rededicated in 2009
Ruth and her mother were two of the city’s earliest, most prominent artists and helped make Laguna famous in the art world.
Her work during this period may have been influenced by composition and color theories of fellow Laguna Beach Art Association artist Fredrick John de St. Vrain Schwankovsky. In 1939, the Fine Arts Gallery of San Diego presented Ruth’s abstractions in a solo exhibition, the first show of its kind by a regional artist. Later, she returned to a more representational style in her paintings.
In 1932, she was included in the California Arts & Architecture directory of state-wide artists.
The Boy and Dog sculpture, created by Peabody for Sophie Kerr, in memory of a daughter and her love of animals, was among the artist’s most distinguished achievements.
Ruth Eaton Peabody passed away on October 22, 1966, in Laguna Beach.
For a map of Art in Public Places (not every piece is listed), click here.
To apply for the Arts in Public Places program, click here.
Community shows support of acceleration of $1M tall ship restoration
Just days after announcing a need for support to accelerate restoration of the Spirit of Dana Point, Ocean Institute has passed the halfway point in garnering support from the community.
The Spirit of Dana Point is a local maritime icon and educational treasure. Each year more than 5,600 students embark on the Spirit of Dana Point for an experience that immerses them in ocean science and maritime history, while incorporating character and team-building skills.
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The Spirit of Dana Point ship
The vessel is in need of restoration, including a new deck. This million-dollar project was slated to begin in 2022, with all restoration to be completed by the December 2022 deadline approved by the US Coast Guard. Plans were accelerated when Ocean Institute received a 30-day notice from their insurance provider. Ocean Institute’s lease with the County requires vessels to be insured. Thus, the entire organization was put at risk.
“The Spirit belongs to the community, and they rose quickly to support this emergency need,” says Dr. Wendy Marshall, President of Ocean Institute. “Foundations mobilized to commit funds and community members have been creative in supporting us.”
Laguna Beach artist Cliff Wasserman encouraged donations by offering a matted photo of the Spirit to anyone who shows a donation receipt of $100. Artist and silversmith Jess Anderson shared, “I sailed on the Spirit for a week in high school and it was life changing,” and is donating the proceeds from her “Skillful Sailors” collection to the project (www.lowtidelanding.com).
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Students at the helm of the “Spirit of Dana Point”
Ocean Institute has secured sufficient commitments and funding to begin the project and Marine Group Boat Works in San Diego has rallied to make space for the Spirit to arrive on June 20.
“We are optimistic as we crossed the halfway point in our fundraising, but we have approximately $500,000 to raise quickly,” says Marshall. “The Spirit is an icon for Dana Point and Orange County. We are incredibly grateful but not surprised to see this support from the community and are confident we will fund this project together.”
To learn more or to donate, visit www.oceaninstitute.org or https://tinyurl.com/spiritodp.
Laguna Art Museum presents in-person Film Night on Thursday
On Thursday, June 17 at 6 p.m., Laguna Art Museum will present an in-person Film Night featuring 20th Century Women. In this film, three women in Santa Barbara share in the upbringing of a teenage boy at a moment brimming with cultural change and rebellion.
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“20th Century Women” will be featured at LAM Film Night on Thursday, June 17
In 1979 Santa Barbara, Dorothea Fields is a determined single mother in her mid-50s who is raising her adolescent son, Jamie, at a moment brimming with cultural change and rebellion. Dorothea enlists the help of two younger women – Abbie, a free-spirited punk artist living as a boarder in the Fields’ home, and Julie, a savvy and provocative teenage neighbor – to help with Jamie’s upbringing.
20th Century Women premiered at the New York Film Festival in 2016. It was nominated for two Golden Globe Awards – Best Motion Picture and Best Actress for Annette Bening – as well as Best Original Screenplay at the 89th Academy Awards.
Tickets are included with museum admission. Advance tickets are recommended.
To purchase tickets and for more information, visit www.lagunaartmuseum.org/events/film-night-20th-century-women.
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.
