Council approves rehab of historical Chris Abel-designed liquor store
By BARBARA DIAMOND
An Olympic cottage and the mid-century modern liquor store designed by the late Chris Abel in 1957 at South Coast Highway and Mountain Street will be preserved.
The City Council on Tuesday approved the HIP District project with only two deviations from the Planning Commission recommendations for the store, which will also include a restaurant. Two rooftop signs will not be lighted and proposed offices in the back of the store were eliminated. The vote was 4-1, Councilwoman Toni Iseman opposed.
“This is visitor serving,” said Mayor Bob Whalen. “The [California] Coastal Commission should love it.”
However, he led the opposition to the offices.
“It is too much,” said Whalen.
The space was approved for storage or parking.
“I’d like to see more parking below,” said Whalen. “But if it’s storage, it’s storage.”
Iseman said added parking would soften the blow for folks who fear customers will end up parking on residential neighborhood streets.
“I think you could get 10 cars in there,” said Iseman.
The decision for use was left up to the property owner.
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Courtesy of Marshall Ininns Design Group
Architects’ rendering of the project approved by City Council
Iseman also supported the ban on lighting the signs.
“Dark skies have been important for Laguna for a long time,” said Iseman.
A sign ordinance has been in place for years that bans outdoor neon signs and sets controls on lighting.
“All you have to do is drive though Laguna at night and think, ‘What is it about Laguna that makes it better?’” said Iseman. “It’s the fact that we were in control of the lighting and the signs.”
The exterior of the store was debated: red was recommended by the Planning Commission; grey was preferred by the property owner and by Blake as more appropriate for a mid-century modern structure; and some were influenced by an email from the granddaughter of John “Pappy” Smith, the original owner (and of the Coast Inn), who stated the original exterior was stained, not painted.
Carolyn Smith Burris said the proposal for red paint stemmed from a photograph that was doctored.
Former Mayor Ann Christoph called during public comment to say that Abel and many other architects of the era used redwood siding not paint.
“I support redwood not red paint,” Christoph said.
The council discussion on the project was marred by an epithet apparently directed at Iseman when she was speaking about the project.
“This was embarrassing and Toni should get an apology,” said Mayor Bob Whalen.
Iseman said she thought she recognized the voice. She requested a clip of the hearing and promised to identify the caller.
Blake, who jumped to the conclusion Iseman was referring to him, denied it and said witnesses in the Council Chamber with him could verify that he had not made the remark.
Barbara’s Column
Be prepared for lengthy fire season
By BARBARA DIAMOND
Bobcat is still clawing its way through Southern California, laying to waste everything in its path.
More than 1.7 million acres have burned throughout California to date. Too many lives have been lost, whole towns have been destroyed. Laguna Beach came close to being one of those towns in October of 1993.
October used to be considered the start of a normal fire season. No more.
“There is no longer such a thing as ‘normal’ when it comes to fire season and fire behavior,” Fire Chief Mike Garcia advised the City Council earlier this month. “The season now lasts two-and-a-half months longer, starting earlier and lingering into late fall and winter.”
The most important thing residents of Laguna Beach need to do is to take precautions for their own safety, Garcia said Tuesday. The fire department’s “Ready Set Go” program was created to promote personal preparedness.
Ready: Have an evacuation kit – the city sells one for $50 plus tax at the Susi Q on Third Street.
Sign up for emergency alerts via Nixle and AlertOC.
Visit www.AlertOC.com to register. Test 92651 to 888-777 to register for Nixle.
Set: Know your evacuation route.
Monitor official sources such as radio, television, and social media.
Go: Early and follow evacuation routes.
“We keep telling people to prepare, and they get the idea that is an idle warning,” said Mayor Bob Whalen. “Really when we tell them to go, we want them to go, not the 13th time they hear it.”
Time will be of the essence.
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Courtesy of LBFD
Woods Canyon fire in 2018
Emergency Operations Coordinator Brenden Manning reported to the City Council that he expects a draft report on an evacuation study by the consultant KLD to be ready by the end of this month.
Garcia emphasized Tuesday that the most important thing folks can do to protect their lives is to be prepared and evacuate when asked to. The second most important thing they can do is to create defensible space around their homes.
To help in the defense of property, the City Council voted unanimously at Tuesday’s meeting to fund a Defensible Space Inspector.
The inspector will proactively identify potentially hazardous conditions on properties within the community, as well as respond to complaint-based issues, according to Assistant City Manager Shohreh Dupuis.
The job will include assisting residents to create an overall safer condition on their property, focusing on a more fire safe environment within the neighborhoods.
Also on Tuesday, the council restored funding eliminated earlier this year, due to COVID-19 budget impacts, for Evacuation Traffic Control Safety Devices and Helicopter Filling Stations – both among the recommendations in the Wildfire Mitigation and Fire Safety Report, unanimously approved by the council in July 2019.
Staff has either implemented or is in the process of implementing all short-term recommendations in the report, Dupuis said.
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Courtesy of LBFD
Emergency kits available at the Susi Q
The recommendations also included the installation of evacuation route signs; completion of fuel modification zones in Laguna Canyon and Canyon Acres; installation of evacuation route signage; the development of residential fuel modification permit requirements and enforcement of city codes, all in progress; vegetation management in Bluebird Canyon, which has been completed; and the initiation of fuel modification zones around telecommunication/radio facilities at Moorhead and Ridge Reservoirs, to be started.
Fuel modification zones translate to defensible space.
“The Fire Department is expanding the fuel modification zones, trying to completely encircle the entire community,” said Garcia.
Goats and hand crews are thinning and clearing brush on the hillsides above Laguna.
“This helps to change fire behavior, reduces heat, and allows us [firefighters] to have better conditions to fight fire and allow for evacuations. That’s the main purpose.
“But we need the homeowners help to create defensible space. Everybody needs to do the best job they can to make their property safe. Every little bit helps.”
Here is what residents should do within the first 30 feet from a structure designated by the Fire Department as Zone 1:
--Remove all dead or dying vegetation.
--Trim tree canopies regularly to keep branches a minimum of 10 feet from structures and other trees.
--Remove leaf litter (dry leaves/pine needles) from the yard, roof, and rain gutters.
--Relocate wood piles or other combustible vegetation into an area farther from the structure, into Zone 2.
--Remove combustible material and vegetation from around and under decks.
--Remove or prune vegetation near windows.
--Remove “ladder” fuels (low-level vegetation that allow fire to spread from the ground to the tree canopies).
--Create a separation between low-level vegetation and non-vegetation materials, such as patio furniture, wood piles, swing sets, etc., and tree branches.
This can be done by reducing the height of low-level vegetation or by trimming the tree branches.
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Courtesy of LCF
For the past five years, Laguna Canyon Foundation has been partnering with the Laguna Beach Fire Department on their “fuel modification” program
Between 30 and 100 feet from the structure, Zone 2:
--Remove ladder fuels.
--Remove surface litter, normally consisting of fallen leaves or needles, twigs, bark, cones, and small branches. If erosion control is an issue, keep it a maximum of three inches deep.
--Cut or mow annual grass down to a maximum height of four inches.
--Trim tree canopies regularly to keep branches a minimum of two feet from other trees.
Garcia said his department would be happy to speak with neighborhood groups about emergency preparedness and fire prevention measures, but for now it must be by Zoom. He was scheduled to speak yesterday to residents of Bluebird Canyon.
For more information on preparedness, watch the virtual South County Emergency Preparedness Summit to be broadcast at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., September 30 through October 7, on Cox Communications channel 39.
The summit is presented by Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett; Orange County’s Health Care Agency, Sheriff’s Department, and Fire Authority; and Southern California Edison.
It will feature timely information from the county’s leading experts on emergency preparedness during the age of COVID-19.
For more information, visit South County Emergency Preparedness Summit at https://d5.ocgov.com/.
Be safe.
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Obituary
Rand Michael Hardy
June 26, 1991 – September 14, 2020
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Submitted photo
Rand Michael Hardy
Rand Michael Hardy, 29, of Laguna Beach, died peacefully at home Monday, September 14, 2020. He was born June 26, 1991 in Newport Beach, the son of Michael and Sharon Hardy. He was a graduate of Laguna Beach High School and of the University of San Francisco.
After graduation, Rand continued to live in San Francisco where he worked in the travel and tourism industry for Pier 39.
In addition to his parents, Rand is survived by his brother, Brett Hardy of Santa Cruz. He is also survived by his maternal grandparents, Gus and Mary Chabre of Newport Beach and uncles and aunts: Darryl and Karen Willis of Coto de Caza, Steve and Jana Chabre of Alameda, and Cammy Chabre of Monterey. Rand will also be greatly missed by cousins: Natalie and Garrett Willis and George and Ella Chabre.
Rand enjoyed nothing more than a good Lakers game, a raucous music festival, a plate of chile verde at Adolfo’s, or spending time with friends.
In lieu of flowers, you may make a gift in his memory to the Laguna Beach High School Scholarship Foundation Re: Rand Hardy Memorial Scholarship, P.O. Box 1569, Laguna Beach, CA 92652-1569.
In remembrance of Mary Bader
There was always something about Mary
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Submitted photo
Mary Bader
Mary was born in New York on April 16, 1954. The oldest of three, she had two brothers, Tom and Jim. On the day of her birth she already possessed something special, a unique gene, I called it the helper gene. Mary spent most of her life as a social worker helping pave the way for young children to live safe and secure lives.
Outside of work she never stopped being Mary, if you had a problem she would try her best to help you find a solution. Anywhere she frequented, people knew her name and she knew theirs. At the farmers’ market just buying groceries with her was an exercise in patience, because Mary, the social worker, was there to listen to any concerns you had. Catch up on your kids’ lives, discuss the latest events, and on and on.
After attending any group event, it seemed that anyone who had come in contact with her would disclose all their deepest held secrets to her. Mary was also an artist of sorts, her canvas was a plate and her tools were pots, pans, measuring cups, etc. She loved to cook and was always willing to try a new spice or recipe. Any potluck we were invited to the guest would eagerly wait to see what Mary would bring. Then ask her to email the recipe to them, which of course she would.
Another one of her passions was a desire to have the canyon declared a monarch butterfly sanctuary. Mary had been planting milkweed all around our property and really enjoyed having Monarch butterflies flying all around the neighborhood. Her next goal was to convince everyone else to start planting their own milkweed. She was just someone who people trusted with their emotions. She was someone who lit up people’s souls and made them always feel better about whatever they discussed.
She is survived by two wonderful children Emily and Nathan, and me, her husband Randy. We shared nearly 35 years together, not nearly enough time to truly get to know her completely. I could go on and on but the truth is if you knew her I’d just be telling things you already knew or felt. As most of her friends constantly told me Mary is an angel. Goodbye, my sweet angel, Mary.
The perfect sunset
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Photo by Scott Brashier
It’s sunset season in Laguna Beach
2020 Election: Laguna Beach Republicans hosts school board candidates forum
By BARBARA DIAMOND
Laguna Beach Republicans President Emil Monday hosted three Laguna Beach School Board candidates via Zoom on Wednesday night.
Amy Kramer, Sheri Morgan, and incumbent Jan Vickers participated in the event. Candidate Kelly Osborne was otherwise committed and board watchdog Howard Hills has suspended his campaign, although his name will still appear on the ballot.
Each of the participating candidates was given three minutes to introduce herself.
Vickers has been a resident of Laguna Beach since 1964. She is a graduate of UC Irvine, has three teaching credentials, and has taught in district schools. She also volunteered in schools, the PTA, athletic programs, and SchoolPower, when her children were in school.
She is a biological, foster, and adoptive mother.
“Although I have served for many years, I have fostered continuous improvement and growth when growth is productive,” said Vickers.
She espouses collaboration, fiscal responsibility, and transparency.
Kramer is the mother of three children, one still attending school here.
She has been active at schools for years, volunteering for public relations and marketing committees, PTA events, and class fundraising. She has also volunteered for SchoolPower, serving as PR chair, Dinner Dance chair, vice-president, and president.
“I am passionate about education and super passionate about giving a voice to stakeholders in the community,” said Kramer.
“Their views are diverse and they have different perspectives. Including them makes better decisions.”
Kramer is opposed to the trimester format and she supports grade-weighted honors classes.
Morgan has been involved in Laguna schools for more than 17 years.
She has been an active watchdog of the board, a committee member of the District, Thurston, and TOW Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP), Advocacy Chair for TOW and Thurston, a member of the LBHS Student Grant Committee, a Girl Scout leader, and one of the founders of Sports Swap.
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Submitted photo
Sheri Morgan, candidate for school board
She has four children, two of them still in Laguna schools and often appears at school board meetings.
“After 10 years, it was time to be a voice for change,” Morgan said.
She said education is where the community can come together, but in the last couple of years, there has been an increase in parents expressing concerns.
“That should say a lot,” said Morgan. “People don’t make that effort if they are happy.
“The schools are no longer serving our community. This is what has encouraged me to run – to give a voice to these families.”
Following the introductions, candidates were given two minutes to respond to questions posed by Monda, one minute to rebut responses made by the other candidates, who were then given one minute to rebut the rebuttals. Monda also participated.
Questions were based on four topics:
--Reopening and pandemic response strategy
--Evaluation of the performance of the superintendent
--Board bylaws and governance
--Transparency by the Board
Vickers was asked about the decisions to keep the schools open on March 11 followed by closing two days later.
She said the district was following Orange County Health Agency recommendations to stay open, but held an emergency meeting on March 13 when it was decided to close the schools for what the board thought would be four weeks.
“There was a lot of objection to that,” said Vickers.
The district is now cautiously optimistic about reopening while keeping students and staff safe.
Kramer said the district was right to close the school, but she would have liked to see more preparation for reopening them.
She is opposed to the trimester format, but she is happy about the application for the waiver for in-person teaching in grades TK through 5.
Morgan said the district did a great job on virtual leaning, but she doesn’t like the two-class hybrid reopening model.
The discussion on the evaluation of the superintendent and justification for his $300,000-a-year base salary could best be described as lively.
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Submitted photo
Jan Vickers, incumbent
Vickers was asked why voters should support anyone who enabled the alleged unlawful use of power by the superintendent, referring to the Doe. V. Laguna Beach Unified School District filed in 2017.
Vickers was hamstrung in response by legal strictures on discussing personnel matters, nor would she discuss details of the lost appeal of the lawsuit.
Vickers did state that Superintendent Jason Viloria’s performance was evaluated on goals set by the board, which is his employer. The goals are made public, but reaching them isn’t, she said.
Monda asked if that protocol could be changed and was informed by Vickers that it would lead to lawsuits.
Kramer opined that the board and superintendent did not handle well the appeal of the lawsuit. It cost the district a lot of money and created a divisive situation in the community, she said.
Vickers rebutted that it wasn’t the district that filed the original lawsuit, to which Morgan rebutted that the superintendent is the highest paid employee of the district and opposed awarding him an annual $300,000 without community participation.
Vickers responded that it would be difficult to hire a superintendent if salary negotiations were held in public.
Kramer said she heard that parents didn’t even know about special meetings related to the Viloria’s evaluation.
Monda indicated that non-incumbents get easier questions, such as how they would have done things differently, with the 2020 vision of hindsight.
The third topic was bylaws and governance, introduced by Monda alleging the board and superintendent had violated district bylaw by making changes that prevented one board member from serving as president.
“The bylaws referenced were not violated, in my understanding,” replied Vickers. “The question should be about working as team with the bylaws in place.”
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Amy Kramer, candidate for school board
Monda said he might have to check with board member Perry (a guest at the forum), who was the one who was not promoted from board clerk to president as was customary.
However, he didn’t.
Kramer said the board erred in governance when the court ordered compliancy with the 2017 with the ruling.
Morgan agreed the matter should have been handled differently.
As for bylaws, Morgan believes there is concern that the bylaws are too open to interpretation by the board.
Morgan also has a problem that all requests for information by board members must be vetted by the superintendent.
Vickers rebutted that the superintendent can then direct the board member to seek information from the proper source.
The final question of the evening was on transparency.
Monda asked if there isn’t a lack of transparency when the board censors a lawsuit the district loses, and rather actively criticizes a citizen who seeks the protection of their rights (an oblique reference to the lawsuit filed Perry against the board for forming a committee in which she was not allowed to participate). Vickers said the board followed its attorney’s advice.
“What’s fair for one is fair for others,” said Monda. “You need to look at getting different lawyers.”
Morgan said transparency is a big issue in the school district.
“I hear a lot of complaints about the community speaking out,” said Morgan.
“Parents and students need a voice.”
Vickers said the district needs to move forward looking at positives.
Morgan applauded the years that Vickers has devoted to the district, but said the board is selected to represent the community.
“It is time for a change, not just doing things the same way they have always have been done,” said Morgan.
To which Vickers replied that she couldn’t be an effective board member if she was stuck in the past.
“I have said it is time to move forward,” she said.
The forum ended with short closing speeches by the candidates.
COVID-19: 22 new deaths reported in OC, 4 new cases in Laguna Beach
Sadly, OC Health Care Agency reports that 1,204 people have died due to COVID-19 in Orange County, including 22 new deaths reported today (September 25). There have been “less than five deaths” of Laguna Beach residents.
The county reports that there have been 52,904 cumulative cases of COVID-19 countywide to date, an increase of 282 cases today.
The county reports that there have been 218 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Laguna Beach to date, an increase of four cases today. This represents a per capita rate of 9.333 cases per thousand residents.
The county reports that 35 percent of ICU beds and 65 percent of ventilators are currently available countywide.
The county reports that 157 individuals are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 (includes ICU); 50 are in ICU.
The county estimates 47,660 “recovered cases” according to its data criteria.
For questions about the data presented by the county, call (714) 834-2000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
To view the data dashboard, click here.
Numbers are updated daily by Stu News Laguna and reported on our social media pages @StuNewsLaguna.
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Courtesy of OC Health Care Agency
Orange County COVID-19 case data as of September 25, as reported by the County; click here to visit page that is updated daily
Laguna Beach Firefighters help battle Bobcat Fire
Laguna Beach fire crews and Laguna Beach Battalion Chief Crissy Teichmann are currently deployed to the Bobcat Fire in Los Angeles County as part of Strike Team 1860A. The Strike Team is made up of several area Fire Engines including Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa.
The City of Laguna Beach also has another engine deployed to the El Dorado Fire in San Bernardino County. That crew has been gone 18 days and will be home after three more days.
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Courtesy of LBFD
Laguna Beach Fire Captain John Kuzmic, Firefighter Adam Fugate, and Engineer Paramedic Pat Cary at the Bobcat Fire
“Thank you to our firefighters extending mutual aid to help combat these wildfires across the state,” said Laguna Beach City Manager John Pietig. “We will receive the same assistance in the future if ever needed.”
Do you know your Laguna Beach evacuation routes? Do have you an emergency plan? Click here to get prepared.
This release originally appeared in the City of Laguna Beach’s News Update, which is sent to residents via Nixle. To sign up, text 92651 to 888-777.
City helps to foster creativity in a time of crisis with generous grants
Laguna Beach as a community has evolved with Artists at its core. Artists are integral in shaping our city and are an economic driver. The City of Laguna Beach Arts Commission believes that in order to support resident Artists, they need to work here to remain here.
Cultural Arts Manager Siân Poeschl developed a proposal for a grant program for Laguna Beach Artists to return to creative work. Poeschl shared the concept with the Laguna Beach Community Foundation, which has undertaken great work and supported the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A donation of $100,000 was awarded to the City of Laguna Beach, made possible by a gift from the Wayne Peterson Fund of the Laguna Beach Community Foundation, to support Laguna Beach Artists. The grant program was unanimously supported by the City Council and Arts Commission.
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Submitted photo
Artist Jamie Bichler, Wayne Peterson Fund grant recipient
Commission Chair Adam Schwerner said, “What has been exciting about this granting process is that we, on the Arts Commission and City staff, have been able to create opportunities for artists in our community to enter into a way of working that they might not otherwise have had the opportunity to do. For some of this group of artists, creating a piece of public art will be a new mode of working. This has led to a diverse set of sculptural, performative, collaborative, and painted works that will would not have happened without Mr. Peterson’s generosity to the community.”
Grant funds were distributed to 28 Laguna Beach artists in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $8,000 for a project to be shared in some way with the community over the next twelve months. Projects range from music, radio plays, poetry, temporary public art installations, and exhibitions. Recently installed on the Promenade on Forest are works by glass artist Jill Cooper, sculptural fused glass by Maggie Spencer, mixed media by Jamie Bichler, and paintings by Hilary McCarthy and Karen Petty. Musician Tommy Benson was featured at the Stage on Forest with four performances highlighting the rich history of Jazz. Future public art installations are planned for around Earth Day in April 2021, with creations by Jesse Bartels, Margret Hemsley, Casey Parlette, Monica Prado, David Kizziar, and Gerard Stripling.
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Submitted photo
Artist Hilary McCarthy, Wayne Peterson Fund grant recipient
Arts Commissioner Suzi Chauvel said, “I am so grateful to the Wayne Peterson Fund through the Laguna Beach Community Foundation for sponsoring the Fostering Creativity grants giving Laguna Beach artists opportunities to keep working. The results are amazing and magical. I am so proud of our artists!”
To hear the Artists talk about their creative projects, watch their video messages here.
Grant recipients include Tommy Benson, Jesse Bartels, Jamie Bichler, Michele Burt, Jill Cooper, Stephen Davy, Laura Ford, James Garrison, Margret Hemsley, Christopher Jeffries, Ellen Kempler, David Kizziar, Jeff Lavinsky, Hilary McCarthy, Elizabeth McGhee, Jesse Miller, David Milton, Andrew Myers, Casey Parlette, Karen Petty, Monica Prado, Mitch Ridder, Naomi Schoenherr, Sheryl Seltzer, Nivada Silva, Maggie Spencer, Gerard Stripling, and Cliff Wassmann.
Local filmmaker’s cinematic debut Yaruki launches on Amazon Prime in US, UK, and Japan
By DIANNE RUSSELL
Even though Laguna resident Eadweard R. York says his first full-length feature film Yaruki started out as a comedy, it ended up as a spoof of the cult movie Lost in Translation.
However, Yaruki, a beautiful and innovative film, did not get lost in translation – quite the opposite.
Chaoticzoohaus Films and York just announced that this full-length (123 minutes, high definition) feature film, described as “An Art Film, A Documentary, A Comedy, and The Answer to Bob Harris who is Lost in Tokyo,” recently debuted on US and UK Amazon Prime, and yesterday was launched on Amazon Prime in Japan. Amazon Prime in the US has already rated it five stars.
In Yaruki, York beckons viewers to take an interesting and visually compelling journey into the streets of Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Kamakura, Hikone, Kawagoe, and visit neighborhoods like Shimokitazawa and Golden Gai – through the eyes of a legendary and infamous photographer, as he takes you to the astonishing country of Japan.
“The name Yaruki came from a ‘cool’ 20-year-old punk rocker I met in Tokyo. It’s slang for ‘cheers,’” York says.
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Submitted photo
Eadweard R. York, film still
York explains the evolution of the film: “This improv art film was initially going to be about movement, then it became a documentary about five girls in Tokyo, and my travel experiences in Japan, then it evolved into an inside joke about the film Lost In Translation. Everything in this film – from the cinematography, the film editing, the sound, and every photograph – was done by one man with one camera. This super low-budget film might possibly contain more still photographs than any other film in history.”
Using a Canon 5D Mark III W/ 28mm lens, he then switched to a Nikon 5D with a 28mm lens, and says, “Some of the train images of myself I used an iPhone.
“I only used a monopod and held the camera steady by using whatever was available – a mailbox, the ground.”
Over a two-year period, this “one-man show” was singlehandedly created by York – except for help with the translations. “The captions/subtitles were very difficult,” York says. “I only speak enough phrases in Japanese to get by.”
The film stars York, Masahiro Ogawa, Ayaka Nakano, Kyoko Takano, Keiko Yokota, Ayumi Kawata, and Kumi Nakayama.
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Submitted photo
Masahiro Ogawa “Bob” (on left) and Eadweard York
Bob (Masahiro Ogawa), who has a large repertoire of outrageous faces, is a comedian and sushi chef – which seems a strange but winning combination. The five college-age girls who star in the film are described by York as “very smart and quick.” He says that most of the girls in Japan are shy and reluctant to open up about themselves, but he was fortunate to find these young ladies.
After watching the film this week, there’s no doubt that it’s a masterful interweaving of still photography and film (including animation). It’s a breathtaking journey into the heart and soul of Japan through the five girls who star in it.
Splitting time between Laguna and Japan, York travelled to Japan twice a year and each time stayed for a couple of months. (He returned from his last trip only a month and a half before the COVID-19 shutdown, and he finished the film in July.)
Of the film, York says, “As a kid, I always dreamed of this. I’m so lucky.”
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, York is photographer, artist, and visionary most noted for his compelling, iconic images of a society on the verge of destruction.
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Submitted photo
Tokyo, 2018
Although this is his first cinematic endeavor, he says, “I’ve been a self-supporting artist all of life. My true love is street photography.”
His powerful street photographs, documenting the disenfranchised, are in stark contrast to the numerous celebrities, bands, musicians, and models who have appeared in front his lens. But whether affluent or impoverished, the images are stripped of all pretense and not easily erased from the mind – the work of one keenly aware of the essence of his subject matter.
Among countless others, he’s photographed John Lee Hooker, Allen Ginsberg, and Bo Diddley. York’s work, articles, reviews, and interviews have appeared in publications and broadcasts all over the country.
In 1988, York founded Omaha’s first contemporary, conceptual, pop punk, outsider anti-art gallery, calling it “The Museum of Cheap Art,” which was followed ten years later by his founding of a major art center, “The Omaha Center for Contemporary Art” and “Dementia 99.” It soon attracted a reputation as a cutting-edge art gallery, most notably as a result of hosting an exhibition of the world-famous, notorious Scherzkopf.
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Submitted photo
Street art – Toyko
To date, he’s held 88 solo exhibitions and public reaction performance pieces here in the U.S. and in Asian galleries, contemporary art centers, museums, and underground exhibitions.
“In 2004-2005, I was painting and sold out every show. I continued to paint until 2010,” he says.
In 2008, he went to China. Then he decided to go to Japan to exhibit, photograph, and focus on Asia and its culture and beauty.
A famous Japanese publisher was intrigued by one of York’s exhibitions and, as a result, he received a book deal, the first photography book to be published in Japan by an American in 35 years. It turned out to be the second to last book that the publisher put out, and he’s now retired.
In June of 2016, his hard copy photography book, In all of this madness, I have seen untold beauty, was published by FOIL Publishing Kyoto.
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Submitted photo
Osaka, 2017
“The book was first conceived in the mid 1980s while I was living in Omaha and working as a commercial photographer. [The photographs are] a historical perspective of America through my lens, a documentation of my life and what I have seen. Having grown up in the punk rock movement, I was a product of my environment, so was naturally inclined to look at things from a different perspective and document them in a way that wasn’t being portrayed by ordinary photographers at the time. I was so proud when it came out. A lot of copies sold and we sent 1,000 to Europe.”
His other books include: Passing in the Outsider Lane, Scherzkopf, Surreal Subconscious Dementia Paintings, China TV, and BC Space – Mything in Action.
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Submitted photo
Tokyo, 2019
When York finished Yakuri, he says, “I was initially going to release the film at film festivals but due to COVID-19, it went straight to Amazon Prime US and UK.”
Although it wasn’t his plan, he can’t praise them enough.
“Amazon Prime opens doors for independent filmmakers. They give independent filmmakers a big break plus you eliminate a third party by not having to hire a distributor. I can also keep track of viewings by seeing how many minutes of the film were watched and how many people rented and bought it. I’m proud of it. It took a lot of work, and I’m glad people enjoy it.”
York loves Laguna – he moved here 10 years ago – but says of Asia, “I was blessed to go and stay in Japan. I never dreamed I’d ever be there.”
Since his film is finally out in the world and well on its way, what are York’s future plans?
“Now that I’m getting older, I want to devote my time to making films,” he says. “I’m still considering my next project.”
For more information, contact Eadweard at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
For more information about his work, go to www.eadweardyork.com.
Where’s Maggi?
Where has Maggi been to now? Let us know if you recognize this spot.
Send your answers in to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The location will be revealed in Tuesday’s edition, and we’ll let you know who got it right.
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Laguna Beach Arts Alliance to host City Council Candidates Forum on Saturday
The Laguna Beach Arts Alliance (LBAA) will hold a candidates forum on Saturday, Sept 26 from 10 a.m. - 12 a.m. via Zoom. The public is cordially invited and encouraged to attend.
All city council candidates have been invited: Steve Dicterow, Ruben Flores, Larry Nokes, George Weiss, and Bob Whalen.
The discussion will be moderated by former Mayor Jane Egly and is generously hosted by the Laguna Playhouse. LBAA has prepared a series of questions that address the arts in Laguna Beach on topics that range from the need for performance space to parking in the Arts District. The arts community is encouraged to participate and show their support for the arts, which is responsible for generating substantial City revenue.
The Zoom link will be available on LBAA’s website at www.lagunabeacharts.org and Laguna Playhouse’s website at www.lagunaplayhouse.com. To pre-register, click here.
The Laguna Beach Arts Alliance was established in 2002 as the result of an exciting partnership among more than 20 Laguna Beach organizations. The mission is to serve as an advocate for the arts, promote collaboration and networking among the arts organizations of Laguna Beach, and to serve as a united voice for the arts in the city. Members of the Arts Alliance include the City of Laguna Beach Arts Commission, Community Art Project, Festival of Arts, First Thursdays Art Walk, KX FM 104.7 Radio, Laguna Art-A-Fair Festival, Laguna Art Museum, Laguna Beach Craft Guild, Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center, Laguna Beach Live!, Laguna Beach Sister Cities Association, Laguna College of Art & Design, Laguna Concert Band, Laguna Dance Festival, LOCA Arts Education, Laguna Playhouse, Laguna Plein Air Painters Association, LagunaTunes, No Square Theatre, Sawdust Art Festival, [seven-degrees], Third Street Writers, and Visit Laguna Beach.
Dennis’ Tidbits
By DENNIS McTIGHE
September 25, 2020
Wild swings in summer sea temps
Local ocean temps are running at around 66-68 degrees, which is about normal for late September, and have actually remained at these levels for at least a week after a summer of more mood swings than even McWeather endures.
Once we get into late September, we normally begin to see a downward trend in our ocean temps. There have been a few exceptions to the rule, especially when there’s a strong El Nino going on – when ocean temps are well into the 70s even through October. During the mega El Nino of 1997-98, water temps were 70 or higher all the way up to November 20th of that year.
During the mega El Nino of 1938-39, the water was an amazing 81 degrees in late September of 1939. That brings us to an amazing story on how that bath-like water attracted a high-end tropical storm to make landfall near Long Beach on September 25, 1939.
Thanks to all of our modern technology, we can go way back in time and completely dissect extreme weather events that happened even hundreds of years in the past.
The surprise tropical system that invaded Southern California in 1939 on September 25th actually formed way back on September 6th of that year off the West Coast of Africa. This was over a decade before they even began naming tropical systems, so we’ll just call it X. On the morning of the 7th, the system became a low-end tropical storm with sustained winds of 40 mph as it began to move to the west. X never got any stronger during its eight-day trip across the Atlantic, barely holding it together as it came ashore near the narrow strip of land known as Panama.
A very strong El Nino was going on at the time which makes conditions in the Atlantic most unfavorable for further development, which is totally opposite of what transpires in the Eastern Pacific. Early on September 16th, X popped out the West Coast of Panama and immediately found itself in a completely different environment, so rapid intensification took place. X was moving straight west in hot El Nino-fed waters at 90 degrees with virtually no shear wind. By the next day, X had already grown into a Category 3 and was still rapidly strengthening.
On the 18th, X was located about 950 miles south of the tip of Baja, way down there at latitude 12.5 degrees north and was now a powerful Category 5. It was a monster at more than 650 miles across with a central pressure of 907 millibars as it continued to trek to the west and seemingly headed straight out to sea, thus not posing any threat to any land masses as it continued to move farther away from land even on the 19th. But on the 20th, X began to make a sharp right turn as his forward motion now put him on a NNW course. Now things were getting interesting, and we’ll review that in my next installment.
See you next Tuesday, ALOHA!
Small but mighty
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Photo by Scott Brashier
“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net forever.” –Jacques Cousteau
LBUSD Board to hold special virtual meeting today regarding in-person learning
The Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education will hold a Virtual Meeting – Open Session – today (September 25) at 5 p.m. By Executive Order N-29-20, issued on March 18, 2020, LBUSD Board meetings will be closed to the public.
Action items on the agenda include the approval of reopening dates for in-person learning for grades TK-5 and the approval of reopening dates for in-person learning for self-contained K-12 programs for students with disabilities.
Public Comment may be provided live during the meeting via Zoom at the link here, and/or may be submitted prior to the meeting via electronic submission no later than noon (12 p.m.) on September 25 at the link here. Public comments submitted using the Google form will be shared with all Board members prior to the meeting and will not be read aloud.
Electronic Participation Opportunities
1. You may listen and comment over the phone or computer during designated public comment periods by following the steps below: Call (669) 900-6833, and wait for instructions. The Webinar ID is 972 4421 3108#. Let LBUSD know you want to comment on an item that is being discussed by pressing *9 on your phone and to un-mute your phone, press *6. When you hear “your phone is un-muted,” please proceed with your comment. The time for comments will be limited, so prepare your remarks accordingly.
2. You may view the meeting live at www.lbusd.org/liveboardmeeting.
3. You can also click on the link here from your computer or smartphone to participate via Zoom.
For a more detailed agenda, click here.
LBUSD graduate honored by Dragon Kim Foundation
The Dragon Kim Foundation, an Orange County-based nonprofit whose mission is to inspire our youth to impact their communities while pursuing their passions, has announced the finalists for the 2020 Dragon Challenge competition.
Honored are Nathan Solomon, a recent graduate of Laguna Beach High School, and now a student at Tufts, and James Koga of University High School who united their passion to spread knowledge about the healing power of rap music and foster a love of spoken musical poetry with Hip Hop Workshop.
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Photo courtesy of LBUSD
LBUSD graduate Nathan Solomon
The teens paired with nonprofit organizations OC Rescue Mission, Aspire Creative Arts Program, and Boys & Girls Club of Greater Anaheim-Cypress to introduce students to the beauty of hip hop poetry. During a two-week interactive workshop, students were introduced to guest hip hop artists and poets, studied works ranging from Pulitzer Prize-winning Kendrick Lamar to Shakespeare and Dr. Seuss, and wrote and put their own raps to a beat.
The teens also conducted a poetry contest and awarded $1,200 in prizes, receiving poems from students from 26 states discussing topical issues such as race, homelessness, and teenage depression.
For more information on the Dragon Kim Foundation, visit www.dragonkimfoundation.org.
Interviews and appointments to the Police Ad Hoc Task Force
Release from Lisette Chel-Walker, City Clerk
Recent incidents of police use of force have sparked a nationwide discussion by residents and elected officials regarding their police department’s existing training, policies, and procedures. While overall, the Laguna Beach community has been and continues to be supportive of the Police Department, these recent incidents have nevertheless prompted questions about our current practices.
Periodic public policy review can be important in ensuring that police training, policies, and procedures are in line with current standards and best practices. To achieve this goal, the formation of an Ad Hoc Task Force to review police protocols can improve police practices and police-community relations. This Task Force will review current training, policies, and procedures related to the below topics, and provide a report of findings and recommendations to the City Council and the City Manager.
The focus of the Ad Hoc Task Force should include a review of the below areas of police training, policy, and procedures:
--Hiring Practices
--Use of Force Incidents
--Pursuits
--Equipment
--Officer Involved Shootings
--Citizen Complaint Procedures
--Interaction with the Public during Confrontational Situations
--Community Policing
--De-escalation Training
Interviews and appointments will be determined, and all applicants will be notified by the City Clerk with their application status and interview dates. Applications will be due no later than Friday, Oct 30, 2020, at 5 p.m. Applications will not be accepted after the October 30, 2020 due date. Applicants may be contacted by City Council members prior to the interviews and appointments so please be prepared to make a brief statement about your desire to serve on this task force.
Laguna Beach residents who are interested in serving on the Police Ad Hoc Task Force should obtain an application from the City Clerk’s office or online by following the link here, and file the application no later than October 30, 2020, 5 p.m., with the City Clerk. The application on the City website is interactive and applicants are encouraged to fill in the application online. Questions may be directed to the City Clerk’s office at (949) 497-0705.
October Series at Neighborhood Church features Pastor Rodrick Echols on Faith and Politics
Pastor Rodrick Echols of Neighborhood Church says, “While public discussion of political issues can bring out the best in us, such as creative new ideas or effective problem-solving, the opposite is also true. From the public dialogue around health care and immigration reform to equal justice and climate change, it is all too easy for anger and frustration to get the best of us. Yet, if we avoid these conversations, we miss a deeper understanding of the issues and possibilities.
“People of any faith participating in the public square are called to a higher standard of engagement and interaction with neighbors, friends, and fellow citizens – especially those with whom we may disagree on any issue. We can choose compassion, respect, and hope over animosity and bitterness. We can choose to listen, learn, and build up rather than attack or dismiss.”
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Pastor Rodrick Echols
Pastor Rod will host a five-part series on Faith and Politics in October on YouTube (click here), launching at 10 a.m. All are welcome.
October 4: World Communion Sunday
Topic: Was Jesus Political?
October 11: The Heart of the Matter
Topic: Integrity in Discourse
October 18: Blessing of the Animals
Topic: Care for All Creation
October 25: Halloween Sunday
Topic: Put Fear in Its Place
November 1: Vote Faithfully
Topic: Serving the “Least of These”
Neighborhood Church is a community of curious and creative spiritual seekers, committed to embodying progressive faith and practice led by Pastor Rodrick Echols. It is an open, welcoming, and affirming spiritual center in downtown Laguna Beach at the intersection of St. Ann’s Drive and Glenneyre St.
Members and friends re-claim their Christian faith as a journey honoring many paths and offer Neighborhood Church as a sacred gathering place for active wisdom and spiritual exploration. The community strives to love kindness and to do justice for all people. While of many minds in spiritual belief, Neighborhood Church is one body in loving service to others and in joyful worship of the One who made us.
Since COVID-19, services and community activities are held online via Zoom or at Neighborhood Church Laguna Beach YouTube channel (click here).
Moon shadow
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Photo by Scott Brashier
A waxing crescent moon – visible in the western sky – follows the sun below the western horizon. A waxing crescent moon has nothing to do with Earth’s shadow on the moon. Earth’s shadow can fall on the moon only at full moon, when the moon and sun are opposite each other – on either side of Earth – in space. There is a shadow on a crescent moon, but it’s the moon’s own shadow.
Guest Column
Ever cry at commercials? Interpreting and decoding your emotional recognition
By Dr. Vidya Reddy
There was a time in my life when a particular song would come on and when it got to a specific set of lyrics, no matter where I was, I would burst into tears. Weirdly, it wasn’t a song I had a deep prior connection to – and I just couldn’t figure it out. I mean, bawling uncontrollably at the gym on the treadmill was new and perplexing.
Have you ever had an experience like this? It could be a commercial, a song, or even a video clip of a gorilla being reunited with the human that raised him years later. But for some reason, it just gets you right in the gut and suddenly you’re all choked up or you’ve got full-body chills.
What does it mean when something seemingly random resonates in a deeply emotional and even physical way that leaves you asking why?
This week, I’m exploring emotional triggers that might seem out of place, but can actually be opportunities for you to more deeply know yourself.
If you have ever cried at a commercial and felt like you might be nuts, I invite you to click below so you can begin to gather these beautiful clues from these moments and use them to take deeper, better care of yourself.
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Photo by Johnny Antezana
Dr. Vidya Reddy
I got inspired this week by coach and “deep soul encourager” Serene Hitchcock. She writes about the kind of instances that rock you to the core, and that we should definitely pay attention to them because they have much to teach us if we allow ourselves to fully process them.
From a psychological, spiritual point of view, it’s almost as if your unconscious mind is peeking up into your conscious experience and saying, “Hey, this is meaningful. There’s more for you underneath this. I see you.”
I created the Naturally Happy podcast as tool to help, as a reflection exercise and for building your spirit muscle. Please listen to it at https://naturally-happy.com/podcast/. Use the podcast guide to find episodes to create much needed catharsis in your life.
It’s a moment of emotional recognition, where something that’s within us recognizes and connects to something outside of us in a powerful way. So, what do we do with that?
The more information and data we can gather about ourselves, the better. Taking the time and space to learn about who you truly are is what will allow you to create robust mental health.
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Photo by Pieter Baetens
Treat ourselves with understanding and loving-kindness
As a psychotherapist and relationship expert for over two decades, I’ve created what I believe to be the five essential pillars of self-mastery. They are tried and true and build upon one another:
--Self-Awareness – because we can’t change anything we’re unaware of.
--Self-Knowledge – this is the stage in which we dig in to examine our unconscious and subconscious mind. You can use your own moments of emotional recognition as clues.
--Self-Acceptance – we learn how to accept what we’ve experienced for what it truly was. Rather than avoid the pain, we have to be willing to revisit anything that might need our attention, love, and care.
--Self-Compassion – we treat ourselves with understanding and loving-kindness, the way we would a cherished loved one.
--Self-Mastery – this looks like embracing and practicing real self-love, deeply knowing yourself and doing the work, communicating your needs, wants, and desires clearly, and living out your amazing, one-of-a-kind life.
I hope that this week’s column inspires you to follow the breadcrumbs back to things in your life. You’ve only got this one life (at least in this incarnation), so why not become an expert on you? I promise you that when you do, it will open a new world of possibilities for you to truly thrive.
I hope you have an amazing week and as always take care of you.
In Peace, Love and Gratitude
‘Til next time
Dr.Vidya Reddy, ND, AMS, DAC, CLC
PMMC partners with OC Community Foundation to host Protect and Preserve giving day
Pacific Marine Mammal Center will partner with the Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF) and six fellow nonprofits on October 7 to host the second annual Protect and Preserve, a Giving Day to sustain the ecosystems of Orange County.
The 24-hour online effort aims to raise $100,000 for organizations with a shared commitment to environmental education and conservation of natural resources. Many of these organizations have been compromised in their fundraising efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Amid this unparalleled moment in our history, our individual, yet overlapping, causes have not had the luxury of pausing. In fact, the headwinds have only grown stronger, and that has been very apparent here at PMMC. We are in the midst of one of the highest numbers of difficult patient cases ever on record. This has included patients with sea lion cancer, gunshot wounds, harmful algae bloom poisoning, fishing net entanglements, emerging infectious diseases, and more,” said PMMC Chief Executive Officer Peter Chang.
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Pacific Marine Mammal Center rehabilitates and releases marine mammals
“Protect and Preserve has taken on a greater meaning than it might have had six months ago, and we are grateful for the platform that Orange County Community Foundation has provided us to partner with these like-minded organizations.”
The seven nonprofits participating in Protect and Preserve include Crystal Cove Conservancy, Get Inspired, Laguna Canyon Foundation, Ocean Defenders Alliance, Ocean Institute, Orange County CoastKeeper, and Pacific Marine Mammal Center.
“The Protect and Preserve Giving Day will provide crucial support to nonprofits working as faithful and knowledgeable stewards of Orange County’s unique ecosystems,” said Shelley Hoss, president and CEO, OCCF. “We are proud to support environmental education and conservation of our natural resources through this fundraising collaboration that provides a lifeline to nonprofits at a crucial time.”
This Giving Day is the latest of a series that, to date, has raised more than $10 million for Orange County nonprofits. OCCF first challenged Orange County residents to “give where their heart lives” during the inaugural ihaertoc Giving Day in 2015, raising more than $1.8 million for 347 participating nonprofits in just 30 hours. In 2018, OCCF restructured iheartoc as an expanded opportunity for nonprofits to connect with one another in support of their shared missions.
To give online during the Protect and Preserve Giving Day, visit www.protect-and-preserve-giving-day.ocnonprofitcentral.org/. For more information on the Collaborative Giving Days, visit www.oc-cf.org/iheartoc.
Laguna Playhouse extends Youth Theatre’s virtual show two more weekends
Laguna Playhouse Education, Youth Theatre, and Outreach announces She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms, written by Qui Nguyen, has been extended for two more weekends, October 9-11 and October 16-18. She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms is an adapted version of Nguyen’s popular play She Kills Monsters, created specifically for online performances as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and is Laguna Playhouse Youth Theatre’s first ever virtual show.
She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms features updated references, technical adjustments, and suggestions made for teleconferencing software. A comedic romp into the world of fantasy role-playing games, She Kills Monsters tells the story of high schooler Agnes Evans as she deals with the death of her younger sister, Tilly.
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Submitted photo
“She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms” is being shown virtually
When Agnes stumbles upon Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. In this high-octane dramatic comedy laden with homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and 90s pop culture, acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.
Laguna Playhouse’s Youth Theatre Director of Education Dylan Russell directs the virtual production. “We are excited to be able to rescreen She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms. We received such great response during our first run that we wanted to bring this wonderful and important show back for those who missed it the first time around.” Russell stated. “When COVID-19 hit, it became clear that we needed to pivot to an online format for the remainder of our Youth Theatre season and thankfully Qui Nguyen had revised this script to address the challenges theatres were facing due to the pandemic and social distancing regulations. It is a perfect addition to our Theatre For a New Generation teen series.”
This online production also aligns with the Playhouse’s new program, Our Stories. Our Stories is Laguna Playhouse’s new outreach program utilizing theatre arts workshops to strengthen one’s own health and well-being, strengthen community connection, and envision a better future for all.
She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms features El Colover, Caroline Field, Lindsey Grace, Elijah Lopez, Cassidy Morgan, and Bridget Phillips, who are all members of the Laguna Playhouse Youth Theatre Conservatory. Rounding out the rest of the cast are Luke Giannelli, Yasmine Hamady, Penelope Hinds, Ryann Fox Kristensen, Achille Van Ricca, Bernadette Roden, Conor Sheehan, and Isabella Tecson.
Tickets for She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms are available at www.lagunaplayhouse.com.
For more information, contact Dylan Russell at
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Laguna Beach doctor named medical director at Orchards Health Center
Dr. Melissa Siew, a Laguna Beach specialist in internal medicine, has been named medical director for The Orchards Health Center in Rancho Mission Viejo. Siew will be responsible for overseeing the medical care for the health center’s assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing residents.
As medical director, Siew will partner with The Orchards to provide resident care and staff training. Additionally, she will act as a liaison between administration and attending physicians and be responsible for reviewing and evaluating administrative and patient care policies. Siew is a member of the Ohana Physicians Cooperative in Laguna Beach, , with hospital affiliations and privileges at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, and Saddleback Memorial Hospital in Laguna Hills.
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Dr. Melissa Siew has been named medical director at The Orchards
After graduating from Columbia University’s postbaccalaureate premedical program, Siew earned her medical degree from St. George’s University in Grenada and completed her residency at Highland Hospital in Oakland, Calif. She had previously earned a bachelor of science degree from the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business and an international finance degree from Karl Marx University of Economic Sciences in Budapest, Hungary. She is a resident of Laguna Beach.
Kelly Conk, administrator for The Orchards, said, “By adding Dr. Siew to our program of medical services, we hope to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions and eliminate the need for offsite doctor visits. Dr. Siew has a passion for working with older adults and educating them about the importance of healthy living and continuity of care. We are thrilled to have her on board.”
The Orchards, located at 1 Amistad in Rancho Mission Viejo, is scheduled to open its assisted living and memory care community in early October with move-ins beginning soon after. The community is now accepting refundable deposits for assisted living and memory care as part of its Harvest Club. Early depositors will have first choice of apartment units and a rate lock until 2023.
Conk said The Orchards will feature a two-story, grand living room with a fireplace, media room, intergenerational Family Fun Zone, private dining room for family celebrations, library, conference room, fitness center, and restaurant-style dining. Outdoor amenities include private courtyards for each level of care, putting green and numerous water features. WiFi will be available throughout the entire building.
Full-time wellness nurses, trained caregivers, and medication technicians will be on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Due to COVID-19, the new community will have a single point of entry for staff to ensure the health and safety of both residents and employees. All staff will follow strict health and safety measures according to CDC, state and local guidelines.
A separate, single point of entry for all visitors, family members, and vendors will be provided as an additional safety measure.
The Gardens memory care neighborhood will offer private rooms with programs designed to meet the needs of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Outside amenities include a garden and a courtyard with televisions as well as an indoor family lounge for quiet time.
More information about The Orchards and its Harvest Club can be found at www.visitorchards.com or by calling (949) 545-2260.
OCMD’s meeting assesses reaction to opening branch at St. Catherine, next meeting Oct 14
On September 15, Doug Freeman, CEO and executive chair of Orange County Music and Dance (OCMD), held a meeting to assess the interest of residents in opening a branch of OCMD as a music conservatory at St. Catherine of Siena Parish School.
OCMD is a nonprofit community performing arts school located in Irvine. Pre-pandemic, they had more than 450 students, enrolled in early childhood programs (18 months to 5 years), and in music and dance for students 5-18 years. Through their financial assistance program, they aim to make the arts accessible to every child, regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Nearly 54 percent of students are on scholarship, ranging from 15 percent to 90 percent.
Utilizing their staff of instructors, they would offer an after-school program in St. Catherine’s large classrooms – with only six students per class. They’d also utilize the outdoor patio area. They would create small ensembles and live-stream performances.
Freeman said, “Our meeting on the 15th was very productive. We had several parents of recent students from St. Catherine as well as parents from other schools who were keenly interested in the possibility of a program that would offer music and dance instruction for their children.
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Next meeting to discuss music and dance conservatory at St. Catherine is on Oct 14
“The Associate Superintendent of the Catholic Schools participated as well as a representative on behalf of LB Superintendent Jason Valoria, music teacher Steve Wade. In addition to myself, we presented Chair of the Department of Music David Dunford, and Chair of the Department of Dance Tawny Chapman. Several members of the business community were there because of their interest in music and the value of a performing arts school to the broader community.
“Our goal was, first, to introduce OCMD to the community and, second, to hear from parents, administrators, and teachers. We asked what was missing, what was needed, and how might our school best serve the community. We received lots of ideas and clearly lots of enthusiasm. My team had a chance to tour the school and to see the opportunities and limitations that the facility offers.
“The action item upon which we agreed was to convene a small planning committee of parents, teachers, and community leaders to begin developing workable plans that would meet the interests of the parents and kids, take good advantage of the facility, and supplement and complement the programs being offered by the local schools.
“That meeting will occur on October 1, in time to have some real content for our next community meeting on October 14 at 5:30 p.m. We’ll return to St. Catherine.”
For more information about OCMD, go to www.ocmusicdance.org.
Laguna Art Museum to host virtual Gala 2020 Benefit Bash on Saturday
On Saturday, Laguna Art Museum (LAM) will host the virtual Gala 2020 Benefit Bash. The highlight of Orange County’s gala calendar supports LAM’s exhibitions and far-reaching art education programs. For 2020, the event is re-imagined as an online extravaganza of art and music.
Supporters of LAM’s virtual Benefit Bash will be entered into drawings for one of two prizes: a classic 8-color serigraph donated by the great California artist Wayne Thiebaud, or a weekend getaway package courtesy of Aston Martin Newport Coast and The Ranch at Laguna Beach.
LAM executive director Malcolm Warner and Laguna Beach Arts Alliance’s 2019 Artist of the Year Jason Feddy will emcee the virtual event. The Benefit portion of the evening for sponsors, benefactors, and patrons will feature a tribute to honorees Greg and Barbara MacGillivray; guest appearances by art stars of Laguna Beach, Los Angeles, and beyond; and a sneak preview of the museum’s 2020 Art & Nature commission of a large-scale outdoor installation.
Following the Benefit, the online Bash invites the museum’s community – in Laguna Beach and around the world – to a publicly available program featuring Jason Feddy and his Joe Cocker tribute band, Mad Dogs & The Englishman; demonstrations by caricature artists; a visit to the museum’s vault to see new acquisitions; a virtual membership table and paddle raise room; and opportunity prize drawings for a weekend getaway courtesy of Aston Martin and The Ranch at Laguna Beach, as well as an original artwork by one of California’s most distinguished living artists, Wayne Thiebaud, kindly donated by the artist himself.
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Courtesy of The Ranch
For donations made during the online Bash, supporters will be automatically entered into a prize drawing for a weekend getaway package courtesy of Aston Martin and The Ranch at Laguna Beach
The Gala 2020 Benefit Bash will be the first event of its kind in Laguna Beach – a virtual event that embraces the possibilities of an online art experience and welcomes audiences from around the world. The event will offer a festive community experience to celebrate the premier museum of California art, 100 years strong and building, with proceeds benefiting the museum’s exhibitions and educational programs.
Greg and Barbara MacGillivray are the Honorary Chairs for the Gala 2020. Greg has been producing and directing award-winning films for more than 40 years. Today, he has more than 50 films to his credit, including over 35 IMAX productions. Greg has produced some of the most enduring films in the giant-screen genre; he has shot more 70mm film than anyone in cinema history and is the first documentary filmmaker to reach the $1 billion benchmark in worldwide ticket sales.
Greg has received two Academy Award nominations for Best Documentary Short Subject: first in 1995 for The Living Sea, and second in 2000 for Dolphins. In 2002, the Giant Screen Theater Association honored Greg as one of the five most important contributors to the success of the industry. That same year, Greg accepted the Bradford Washburn Award, the highest honor bestowed by the Museum of Science in Boston, for his contribution to science education.
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Courtesy of MacGillivrayFreeman.com
Greg and Barbara MacGillivray are LAM Gala 2020 Honorary Chairs
A passionate ocean conservationist, Greg and his wife Barbara founded the One World One Ocean Foundation, a nonprofit public charity dedicated to educating and inspiring the public through giant-screen films and companion programming about the need to take action to protect the world’s ocean. Greg also serves on the Board of Directors for The Great Park in Orange County and Sylvia Earle’s Mission Blue, as well as the Laguna Playhouse and Laguna Art Museum.
Barbara and Greg met in the 9th grade – she sold tickets for his first surfing film – and making films has always been a part of their relationship. Over the years she has worked multiple capacities with production and post-production of the films, bringing their two children, Meghan and Shaun, along with them whenever possible on film shoots. Barbara has also worked for 30 years in Children/Youth Services for the Orange County Health Care Agency as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. The best part of her job is being with her family, doing what she loves: making films with messages about conservation and education.
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Courtesy of jasonfeddy.com
Jason Feddy and Mad Dogs & The Englishman
Jason Feddy will co-host the evening and his band, Mad Dogs & The Englishman, will provide a top-notch soundtrack. Feddy is Laguna Beach Arts Alliance’s 2019 Artist of the Year and a central figure in the music scene of Laguna Beach. He was the daily morning DJ on Laguna’s local radio station and he has produced the city’s popular Sunset Serenades, World Music, and Music in the Park concert series. His all-star band, Mad Dogs & The Englishman, pays tribute to the legendary Joe Cocker. Fronted by Feddy, the Mad Dogs are an incredible gathering of touring and recording musicians whose performances have audiences on their feet.
For donations made during the online Bash, supporters will be automatically entered into a prize drawing for a weekend getaway package that includes a complimentary vehicle from Aston Martin Newport Coast, as well as a two-night stay and dinner for two at Harvest Restaurant at The Ranch at Laguna Beach (estimated value: $4,500).
Event sponsors, benefactors, patrons, and donors to the virtual “Make a Difference paddle raise” will be entered to win Toy Counter (1970) by Wayne Thiebaud. This classic eight-color serigraph by one of California’s most beloved artists is a framed, signed artist’s proof kindly donated by Mr. Thiebaud himself (estimated value: $17,000).
The Gala 2020 committee is led by co-chairs Carla Meberg and Kristin Samuelian; and committee members Kathleen Abel, Wendy Aird, Nikki Bostwick, Susan Davis, Jason Feddy, Michelle Fisher, Chuck Fry, Kate Mathis, Chris Quilter, and Deborah Schlesinger.
For more information, visit https://lagunaartmuseum.org/events/gala-2020.
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Laguna Beach presents “Follow with Love” on Sunday
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Laguna Beach (UUFLB) invites the community to join together on Sunday, Sept 27 at 11 a.m. for an incredibly special Zoom presentation titled “Follow with Love.”
The guest speakers that day, Kathie and Sam Moehlig, will share their story of a mother’s love in following the lead of her transgender child. Together, participants will learn how to move from support to affirming to advocating for those we love.
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Submitted/Photo by Adam Bouska
Kathie and Sam Moehlig will host a Zoom presentation on Sunday, Sept 27
Kathie Moehlig, Founder of TransFamily Support Services, is a leading authority on supporting transgender and non-binary youth and their families. A tireless advocate for the LGBTQ community, she was named “Woman of the Year” by California Assemblyperson Todd Gloria. A certified life coach, parenting instructor, and motivational speaker, Kathie’s work has been featured in media nationally. She regularly crisscrosses the country to work with families, school, healthcare, and organizations to promote understanding, inclusion, and equality.
Sam Moehlig is a San Diego native and a youth leader in the transgender community. He has learned to overcome not only the challenges of being trans but also growing up with a disability; Sam was born with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). Sam serves as a Youth Ambassador for TransFamily Support Services in San Diego. Many times, he is the first trans youth that others talk to when they come out.
Sam works with many young people and/or their parents guiding them on the gender journey. His transition is the subject of an Emmy Award-winning documentary, A Transgender Teen’s Journey: Sam’s Story. Sam is a competitive gymnast and a third degree black belt in TaeKwonDo. Sam is committed to educating folks on acceptance and equality for all.
Join the virtual service via Zoom at www.uulagunabeach.org. The login ID and password can be found at that site under “Events.”
For more information, contact Rachel Daniels at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (310) 714-2699.
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.
Incident Reports
Tuesday, Sept 22
S Coast Hwy | 1700 Block | Burglary
11:10 p.m. LBPD received a report regarding a burglary.
N Coast Hwy & Broadway St | DUI, Driving with a Blood Alcohol Content 0.08% or Higher, Driving without a Valid Driver’s License
5:25 p.m. A 21-year-old person was arrested on suspicion of DUI, driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher, and driving without a valid driver’s license. Bail was set at $2,500.
N Coast Hwy & Broadway St | Warrant
5:19 p.m. An 18-year-old person was arrested on a warrant for grand theft. No bail was set.
S Coast Hwy | 100 Block | Warrants
3:32 p.m. A 57-year-old person was arrested on warrants for possession of controlled substance paraphernalia. Bail was set at $500.
N Coast Hwy | 600 Block | Fire
12 p.m. LBPD received a report regarding a brush fire in the area of Grandview Street on the cliff and hillside area next to the UPS Store. According to police reports, flames were seen on the hillside with the structure above it and the shopping area below threatened. LBFD Engines 3, 2, and 1 arrived on scene. According to LBFD, citizens in the area were able to put out flames in the hillside below the structures, while units were en route. Engine 3 arrived first, smoldering the hotspots on the hillside with foam.
Insert Police Beat LBFD Fire pic
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of LBFD
Monday, Sept 21
N Coast Hwy | 1300 Block | Warrant
4:08 p.m. A 60-year-old person was arrested on a warrant for trespassing. Bail was set at $500.
S Coast Hwy | 1200 Block | Violating Probation, Disorderly Conduct – Alcohol
3:27 p.m. A 34-year-old person was arrested for violating probation and disorderly conduct related to alcohol. No bail was set.
Unknown | DUI with 2 Priors
12:08 a.m. A 30-year-old person was arrested on suspicion of DUI with two priors. Bail was set at $15,000.
Sunday, Sept 20
Forest Ave | 500 Block | Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Controlled Substance
9:08 p.m. A 26-year-old person was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance. Bail was set at $500.
Laguna Canyon Road | 20600 Block | Animal Calls
8:58 p.m. LBPD received a report in reference to a snake inside the building in the corner.
S Coast Hwy & Nyes Place | DUI
12:53 a.m. A 26-year-old person was arrested on suspicion of DUI. Bail was set at $2,500.
Editor’s Note: An arrest contains allegations that a suspect has committed a crime. Every suspect is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
