18-yr-old suspect in car theft who led cops in 100 MPH chase last month is in custody

Police have been searching for 18-year-old Curtis Anthony Peters, Jr for the past month after he was suspected of stealing a car from an Arch Beach Heights resident. The car’s owner had told police that Peters was the suspect but Laguna officers and OC Sheriff’s deputies were unable to locate him at his Laguna Niguel home.

He surfaced again in the wee hours of Saturday, Aug 14 when a Laguna patrol unit tried to pull him over on Coast Highway in South Laguna in the stolen car. Peters allegedly led Laguna officers on a high-speed chase with speeds reaching in excess of 100 mph into Dana Point where OC Sheriff’s deputies took over the chase. Police lost sight of the stolen car near Golden Lantern and PCH.

Other deputies went to the Laguna Niguel address where one of his parents lives in the hope that Peters would head there. When he didn’t, deputies made contact with a resident that provided the addresses of relatives in Laguna Beach where he had been living.

Deputies in Dana Point made a car stop at about 10 p.m. on Aug 23 where the stolen car was recovered. There were five people in the car and Peters allegedly bailed out on foot and once more eluded police. No charges were made against any of the other four occupants of the stolen car.

Investigators learned that there was an outstanding felony no bail warrant for the arrest of Peters out of Central Court. A concerted effort was made to locate him and he was spotted at the Shell station in North Laguna at seven o’clock Sunday evening.

Peters and another man, Steven Alex Bagdesarians, 18, Laguna Niguel, were detained and questioned by several LBPD officers.

The warrant contained six felony charges: burglary of an inhabited dwelling, robbery, robbery with a sentencing enhancement, robbery of a person(s) operating a vehicle, assault with a deadly weapon and causing great bodily harm in the commission of a felony.

Police Sgt. Louise Callus said no other charges have been made against Peters at this time. “The investigation is on-going,” she said.

After questioning by detectives, Bagdesarians was arrested on a felony charge of aiding and abetting. Sgt. Callus said that police believe that he was aware of the no bail warrant for Peters’ arrest. His bail was set at $20,000.

School starts on Sept 7 at all four LBUSD schools

Laguna Beach Unified School District welcomes students back to school on Sept 7. Throughout the summer months, staff has worked diligently to ensure a smooth school opening for students.

Superintendent Sherine Smith shares her appreciation for the dedication of the District’s staff, “Our principals, teachers, and staff members have been working hard all summer to prepare for the opening day of school. We are proud of the growth in achievement our schools attained this past school year and anticipate another year of outstanding educational opportunities for our students.”

The schools’ first week schedule is as follows:

El Morro Elementary School

• Sept 7 Back To School Orientation for Kindergarten students and parents 9-10:30 a.m. (Early start students) 12-1:30 p.m. (Late start students)

• Sept 7 school begins at 7:55 a.m. for grades 1-5

• Sept 8 (Early start) Kindergarten students 7:55 a.m.-11:25 a.m. (Late start) Kindergarten students 9:55 a.m.-1:17 p.m.

Top of the World Elementary School

• Sept 7 Kindergarten Orientation for students and parents 9-10 a.m. (Early start students) 10:15-11:15 a.m. (Late start students)

• Sept 7 school begins at 7:55 a.m. for grades 1-5

• Sept 8 (Early start) Kindergarten students 7:55 a.m.-11:25 a.m. (Late start) Kindergarten students 9:55 a.m.-1:17 p.m.

• Sept 7 school begins at 7:55 a.m. for grades 1-5

Thurston Middle School

• Sept 7 “0” period begins at 7:35 a.m. • 1st period begins at 8:40 a.m.

Laguna Beach High School

• Sept 7 school begins at 7:30 a.m.

Additional information is available on each school site’s website which can be accessed from the LBUSD website, www.lbusd.org.

Kids with needs get stuff to be ready for school

Staff photo by Cliff Getz

Seven-year-old Victor H. smiles proudly as he shows his winning ticket for the grand prize TV set that he won at the Back to School Party & BBQ last Friday afternoon at the No Square/Legion Center. Larry Bammer, President of the Laguna Beach Employees Association (LBPEA), looks on approvingly. The LBPEA, No Square Theatre, Woman’s Club of LB, the LB Exchange Club, Laguna Resource Center and Laguna Beach Seniors/Susi Q sponsored the event. Hot dogs, popcorn and other goodies were given to the low-income kids who attend Laguna Beach schools along with more important stuff such as new school supplies, clothing and food.

Local author is doing something about 1,600,000 homeless kids in the US and the 22,000 here in OC

In a bold effort to raise money to support homeless children, local author Rich German is giving away his brand new book, Monetize Your Passion, for free.

“Most people do not realize that there are over 1.6 million homeless children in the America.  And the problem is huge right here in our own backyard.  We have over 22,000 homeless children right here in Orange County, one of the wealthiest counties in the United States,” says German.

When he began to study this epidemic he was compelled to take action…massive action.  Along with a local production company, he is creating the upcoming documentary film, Generation Why? which shines the light on this dark reality and provides real solutions for kids in grave need.\

To get your free copy of Monetize Your Passion and watch the preview trailer for Generation Why?, click here: http://www.richgerman.com/myplaguna.html

“We are giving away the book for free and asking people for a totally optional charitable donation.  The book was just released on Wednesday (Sept 1) and we have already given away 8,757 copies and have raised more than $10,150!  People are really responding.  The time has come to put an end to child homelessness,” German exuded. He is giving away his book the entire month of September.

“My goals are to give away over 50,000 books and to raise over $100,000 this month alone.  I sincerely appreciate the support from Laguna Beach residents.”

Local author Rich German

Rich German has been a business and life coach since 1999.  He has conducted over 17,000 individual coaching sessions in his career.  His new book, Monetize Your Passion, teaches people to turn their greatest passion into financial freedom.

When not working, German can most likely be found on the beach at Shaw’s Cove or walking down to Main Beach with his girlfriend and their Goldendoodle, Jack.

Go to http://www.richgerman.com/myplaguna.html to get your free book and to help support homeless children.

Festival/Pageant 2010 Gala Benefit was a sold-out success raising some $200,000 for FOA building fund

Staff photo by Cliff Getz

Festival of Arts Board President Wayne Baglin and FOA/POM Director of Marketing Sharbie Higuchi greeted guests on the Red Carpet

Mario Lopez, host of the popular daily nationally syndicated show EXTRA, and Animal Planet’s Pet Star hosted the non-profit Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters 12th annual gala benefit Saturday night. Lopez began his career as one of the main characters in the hit teen series Saved By The Bell. In addition to the other two shows he also hosts MTV’s highly rated program, America’s Best Dance Crew. Lopez is no stranger to rigorous dance routines, in the third season of ABC’s hit Dancing with the Stars; he danced his way to the finals.

The gala featured a performance of the Pageant of the Masters “Eat, Drink and Be Merry”, where the artwork of Fredric S. Remington, George Caleb Bingham, Nicolas Lancret, Carl Larsson, Leonardo da Vinci and many others came to life with the help of volunteers during a spectacular living pictures presentation. Other highlights of the gala included a private viewing of the Festival of Arts — California’s Premier Fine Art Show, the music of Bill Cantos, dancing, delicious food prepared by Tivoli Terrace restaurant and Chef Molly’s Culinary Artistry, a raffle for a 2010 Acura ZDX and a silent auction. The winner of the Acura ZDX was Ed Laser from La Jolla, California.

Prior to the show and as a thank you for his support of the event, longtime Festival artist David Milton presented a print of his watercolor of the infamous Hollywood sign to Mario Lopez.

Lopez first became familiar with the Pageant of the Masters in the early ‘90s during a segment of “Name Your Adventure” that he hosted. Lopez was thrilled to participate as this year’s Gala host. In his speech before the Pageant performance, he referred specifically to the inspiration of art: “I think the Pageant expresses something I’ve always believed: that art has something for every one of us.”

Saturday’s host also applauded the volunteers and their commitment to the arts. He said, “I also had a chance to experience the excitement and enthusiasm of all the volunteers backstage and the incredible team effort that goes into making this truly a one-of-a-kind show. Their commitment is nothing short of inspirational.”

Festival of Arts president Wayne Baglin concurred, “Equaling the unique nature of the Pageant of the Masters show is the fact that it exists because 550 people volunteer countless hours in set and performer preparation, rehearsals and performances.  I can think of no other business model that is so dependent and successful based upon volunteers.”

The gala event grossed approximately $200,000 for the Festival of Arts Building Fund for improvements and renovations of the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters facility. Baglin took a moment during his address to the Gala audience to thank patrons for their generosity. “Your support of tonight’s Gala results in tangible improvements to the Festival of Arts grounds, because the revenue goes into the capital improvements fund.  This year’s guests have praised the improvements to the exhibit grounds and Pageant performers appreciated the remodeled dressing rooms.  All accomplished because of funds generated by the Pageant of the Masters Gala evening.  Thank you.”

Also in attendance were many other celebrity guests including Drew Tyler Bell, A.J. Cook, Sarah Drew, Cassie Fliegel, Iva Franks, Matthew Gray Gubler , Vicki Gunvalson, Marg Helgenberger, Richard Karn, Kate Linder, Joe Mantegna, Joseph Mascolo, Jerry Mathers, Chip & Kim McAllister, Donna Mills, and Ron Rodecker.

LB Community Clinic receives Circle of Care Award

Laguna Beach Community Clinic received one of Cal Optima’s 2010 Circle of Care Awards, for its contribution to caring for medically underserved members of the community.

Dr. Tom Bent, Medical Director for the Clinic accepted the award, which was presented by Richard Chambers, Chief Executive Officer of Cal Optima.

Chambers cited the Clinic’s “Uncommon commitment to care for the most vulnerable members of our community.”

LBCC served more than 5,000 individuals in 2009, the majority of whom were low-income and uninsured.

“This year our numbers are even higher,” according to Bent. “Many more members of our community are without insurance because of the present economic condition. We are the only local clinic that sees patients based on need rather than the ability to pay and our services are in greater demand than ever.”

Speaking for the Board of Directors, Dr. Pamela Lawrence said, “We are so proud that our Clinic staff is receiving this most deserved recognition for their valuable services to Laguna Beach.”

World-renowned sustainability expert and author Bill McDonough hosted by Townhall Foundation at LAM

Architect, author and sustainability expert Bill McDonough will be at Laguna Art Museum on Sept 8 for “Celebrating Abundance: Designing for the Cradle to Cradle Future.” Townhall Foundation will host his 7 p.m. conversation.

According to a Townhall statement, “McDonough’s book Cradle to Cradle has transformed the definition of sustainability. McDonough argues in his book and explains to CEOs of major companies worldwide that humans continue to fail when it comes to sustainability and recycling.

“Many of the products humans create, even those labeled “recycled,” include components and chemicals that are not suitable, even dangerous, for secondary uses. As such, the recycling bin is merely a stop towards its ultimate destination: the landfill. Humans downcycle, they don’t truly recycle. This not only harms the environment, but corporate bottom lines as well.

“Many residents of Laguna Beach and throughout the region deeply care about this issue, which is why Bill McDonough is bringing his message to the Laguna Art Museum.”

LAM is at 307 Cliff Drive.

For more information, register online at www.townhall-foundation.com

Ethel Merman’s Broadway: Sept 8 – 19 at Playhouse

In Ethel Merman’s Broadway at Laguna Playhouse starting this coming Wednesday night Rita McKenzie recreates her uncanny, award winning portrayal of Ethel Merman, the Queen of the Broadway Musical. The show is packed with more than 20 trademark Merman songs, including “I Got Rhythm,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “Everything’s Coming Up Roses,” and many more.

Submitted photo

McKenzie weaves Merman’s larger-than-life story with her signature tunes to create an absolutely must-see production.

For four decades, Ethel Merman was the reigning royalty of the Broadway stage.  She was at her peak during the most creative and brilliant time of what is considered one of America ’s singular art forms.  During her era, Merman introduced songs, characters and stories that have remained a permanent part of our culture. She first sang the songs of many of the great songwriters of her era – Cole Porter, George and Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Jule Styne, Stephen Sondheim and Jerry Herman – who all considered Merman among the greatest interpreters of their work.

The songs she introduced during this era (and which are featured in the show) include “I Got Rhythm,” “Anything Goes,” “It’s Delovely,” “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “They Say It’s Wonderful,” “Small World,” “Everything’s Coming Up Roses,” “Some People,” and “Rose’s Turn” from shows such as Anything Goes, Annie Get Your Gun, and Gypsy.  They forever belong to her voice and persona.  Even as others sing them, it is hard not to hear Ethel’s voice belting them up to the second balcony.

Launched off-Broadway at New York ’s John Houseman Theater, Rita McKenzie’s personal success with Ethel Merman’s Broadway triggered an international tour. McKenzie also toured the country in Merman’s signature part as Annie Oakley in the 50th anniversary production of Annie Get Your Gun opposite Glenn Yarbrough.  She has also played Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes and of course, Mama Rose in Gypsy.

She starred in the Los Angeles premiere of the off-Broadway musical Ruthless! and can be heard on the original cast album.  She created the role of Phoebe Farber in Sam Harris’ production of Hurry!  Hurry! Hollywood! in Los Angeles , and she played Maggie Jones in 42nd Street with Mariette Hartley.  Her other starring roles include Aldonza in Man of la Mancha, Ruth in The Pirates of Penzance, Belle Poltrine in Little Me, Domina in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Cleo in The Most Happy Fella, Widow Corney in Oliver!, and Nurse Custer in Whoopee!

House fire on Shady Lane – burns twice

Staff photo by Cliff Getz

Firefighters spent four hours fighting a stubborn fire in tight quarters Sunday afternoon and evening. The home above, in the 28800 block of Shady Lane in the Old Top of the World neighborhood, burned a second time Sunday night. This photo was taken on Monday morning.

A persistent fire that the fire department believes started in a garage work area (at the lower left above) managed to quickly extend to an upper floor and did significant damage to one side of the residence. Fire units responded at 4:33 Sunday afternoon after neighbors had knocked on the door to alert a man inside about the flames that were engulfing the west side of his home.

LBFD Deputy Chief Jeff LaTendresse said preliminarily that the fire was able to spread to the upper floor rapidly because the homeowner had fixed a leaking bathtub by removing drywall from below and had not replaced it. The fire department was still investigating as of late Thursday and had not released information about the cause.

“The fire moved up into the wall in a second floor bathroom and that made it a difficult effort. In addition, the home was under a thick canopy of trees. We had to protect adjacent homes and the hillside in the rear,” LaTendresse said.

Seven engine companies from Laguna Beach and the Orange County Fire Authority, two ladder trucks and three chief officers coordinated an attack that kept them busy for up to four hours. The narrow streets made access tricky for all of the apparatus.

Thermal imaging cameras indicated that the maximum temperature inside the residence after 8 p.m. was 90 degrees. “Three people got the same reading,” said LaTendresse.

Animal services responded to help the owners round up as many as 18 cats that had been in the home when the fire started. All were accounted for.

The fire department left a generator on scene for the owners to help them gather their cats and put some things in order. LaTendresse said there wasn’t any fire damage in two rooms on the east side of the home and that the residents were allowed to enter that part of their home.

Firefighters from Station 3 about a block away picked up the generator and about ten minutes later, shortly before 10:30 p.m., responded to a report of a second burn at the same home. Laguna’s four engines and a ladder truck from the county were on scene and fought the second fire until after midnight.

Chief LaTendresse said it appeared that the fire had eluded the thermal imaging because it had moved behind the tiled walls in the bathroom. “We foamed inside there the first time.” The fire extended itself inside the walls of the house during the second burn before the flames were extinguished.

Damage to the structure was estimated at $400,000 by the fire department, which is still evaluating the lost and damaged contents of the home.

No injuries were reported.

Photo courtesy LB Fire Dept

This photo shows the heavy tree canopy and the tight quarters on Shady Lane

At saltfineart

Guatemalan Masters – Barrios & Monroy Thursday

saltfineart will have an opening reception coinciding with First Thursdays Art Walk featuring painting and sculpture by master artists Moises Barrios and Arturo Monroyu of Guatemala from 6-9 p.m.

Arturo Monroy

Plato De Lujo/ Luxury Plate

oil on canvas

56 x 56 inches

Moises Barrios

Lanchera

oil on canvas

59 x 44 inches

saltfineart is at 1492 S. Coast Hwy 715.5554