Jose Luis Flores, Laguna’s legendary and beloved hotel maintenance engineer, dies at 49

Just one week short of his 50th birthday, on December 17, 2020, Jose Luis Flores, beloved employee of two Laguna hotels spanning 25 years, passed away from brain cancer. Services were held on December 31. He is survived by his wife and three children.

A hotel maintenance engineer, Jose took enormous pleasure in his work, according to friends, co-workers, and employers, and always felt a part of the community. In particular he loved Laguna Beach’s beauty, so much so that he would arrive early before work to run on the beach and breathe in the ocean air. Laguna was a very important part of his life.

Jose’s brother, who works in the same department at Pacific Edge Hotel, says the hardest part will be coming in every day and not having his brother there, after working together for the last 21 years. 

Submitted photo

Jose Luis Flores

Jose and his brother were first employed by the Haneline family, the former owners of Vacation Village, now the Pacific Edge Hotel, in the late 90s. 

Christine Haneline, along with her brother Russ, says the Flores men were the best employees they’d ever had. 

“They were such a great family. Their mother passed away when they were young boys. Jose’s father came to work for us and he was such a great man, raising both Jose and his brother to be wonderful men, husbands, and fathers. Jose was an overall great guy, always talking about his wife and kids – he was proud of them and loved them dearly.

“The three men were the backbone of our maintenance department and they provided excellent customer service that made our hotel so successful. Jose was not only an incredible employee, but he was extremely hardworking. He was always eager to learn something new and always cheerful. The entire staff and our guests at Vacation Village loved Jose. 

“We sponsored Jose’s path to citizenship, and he was so proud when he became a U.S. citizen. We were deeply saddened to hear of his sudden passing.” 

Kurt Bjorkman, general manager of The Ranch at Laguna Beach, and formerly of the Pacific Edge Hotel, is full of praise for the man.

“I had the fortune of being able to work with Jose both here at The Ranch and at Pacific Edge Hotel,” Bjorkman says. “Jose committed virtually his entire life to Laguna Beach hospitality, making two legendary properties shine and their guests feel welcomed. I am humbled by his accomplishments. We need to have more people in this world with a heart for service such as Jose’s ─ it would be a much better place to live in.”

Praise pours in for a well-loved man

Co-workers and friends were devastated to hear the news.

“Jose was a good friend, co-worker, and a good person. I’m sending my prayers and condolences to his family and [prayers] for God to bless them and give them strength to help alleviate the loss of such an incredible person,” says Jose Rivera, former chief engineer at The Ranch at Laguna Beach.

Jack Dexter, golf manager at former Ben Brown’s, and now at The Ranch at Laguna Beach, adds, “Truly one of the best. Such a great human being. God rest his soul.” 

Martin Espinoza, engineer at The Ranch, says, “For my friend Jose, may God have you in his glory. Thank you for the things you taught me, you will be missed. Goodbye friend, until soon.”

Clearly, Jose was an exceptional man, as evidenced by the outpouring of emotion from friends and colleagues, and his well-earned reputation for his dedication to the work he loved.

“Jose Flores was a model employee and had such a kind heart. He showed up to work on time, with a smile on his face, and a positive and can-do attitude,” says Lisa Rosecrans, director of human resources at The Ranch. “He was passionate about his work and his family. Jose was the definition of hospitality, making people feel welcome and at home.”

May he rest in peace.

Coast Hardware offers old-fashioned friendly service and one-stop shopping from A-Z

By DIANNE RUSSELL

Photos by Mary Hurlbut

Need a key copied, a paint sample matched, or a gift for a housewarming? You can get it all at Coast Hardware, an old-style hardware store that offers service and supplies from A-Z. It’s a place where dogs know they’ll get a treat, and customers are confident they’ll get their questions answered and find what they need. 

The staff is described as the “helpful hardware folks” and that statement couldn’t be more true. Locally-owned Coast Hardware has served Laguna Beach for over 40 years, and Store Manager Ed Leatherwood has been there for three of those four decades. 

Manager Ed Leatherwood

What started as a part-time job for Leatherwood, a Laguna resident, turned into a 31-year position at a place where he says, “Felt right and comfortable,” so he decided to stay. “It’s an old school type of store.”

Originally from Oregon, Leatherwood, graduated from the University of Oregon where he studied Journalism and Marketing. He did his post-grad in Marketing and worked at advertising and corporate agencies for over 20 years.

Click on photo for a larger image

Coast Hardware on Broadway St

In the 1970s, he came down to Newport Beach to work for a local agency, and in the mid-eighties when the company sold, he started freelancing.

“At the time, I was living in Newport and came to Laguna because a friend needed assistance. Advertising was changing, so my friend said, ‘the hardware store is hiring,’ and I worked here part time for a year. I enjoyed the atmosphere and the store’s progress and became more interested, so I went to full time.” 

In his off hours, which aren’t plentiful, Leatherwood visits his brother in Palm Springs to play golf and is also close to his niece and nephew. Another interest is woodworking and refinishing furniture, but nothing specific. “Whatever needs to be refinished,” he says. 

When queried about some of the strange questions he’s been asked by customers, Leatherwood says, “It never fails, at Christmas, at least one person comes in after putting lights on a tree or outside and realizes that there are two female or two male connectors when they try to plug in the strings, so they ask for an adapter. There is no such thing. It wouldn’t work.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Store Manager Ed Leatherwood

On the upside, Leatherwood admits that he likes the interaction with both regulars and tourists. “They’re mostly from Arizona and Nevada,” he says.

As for the pandemic, Leatherwood says, “Business has been good, although not for the reasons anyone wants. The kitchen department has been selling lots of appliances because people are cooking more at home, people are doing more repairs and projects around the house, so they need parts, and they’re deep cleaning, so sanitizing products are selling. We offer online ordering as well as curb and in-store pickup.”

Looking back over the past 30-plus years, he says that some of his most memorable times have been the fire in 1993, the 2005 mudslides, and the 2010 floods.

Long and short time staffers

Bluebird Canyon resident Raelynn Lyons, who has worked at Coast for 15 years and is in charge of the kitchen and houseware sections, also recalls those natural disasters. “During the mudslides, we stayed open and came to work in the mud and were also open during the 1993 fires to help the residents. We donated to schools and the community center.”

Lyons admits that she likes the interaction with customers. “Every day is a different day. We get to see our neighbors and meet tourists from all over the world. We’re like a mini-chamber of commerce. People ask us where to eat and where to go for certain things. If we don’t have something, we send people where they might find it. We work with the other businesses.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Vince Cunningham

Eight-year staff member Vince Cunningham of the Hardware Department, says, “It’s wonderful to work at Coast Hardware. It’s nice to have a local hardware store that hires locals. That’s keeping it local for real.”

Aimee Dixon, who started in September, has nothing but praise for Leatherwood. “Ed is a great boss. He’s a good listener and teacher.” 

Another rookie, who also started in September, Steve Doherty of the plumbing department, says, “It’s fabulous to work at a place in the community where everyone is kind of like an extended family.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Steve Doherty

Assistant Store Manager

Assistant Store Manager Doug Cross, who heads the paint department, says, “I think every bathroom in Laguna got a new paint job during the pandemic.”

He says they’ve been busy during the past eight months, likely due to people being home so much and busy with DIY projects. Initially, they were short-staffed, but now they are fully staffed. 

Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Cross has been with Coast Hardware for five and a half years, and arrived in Laguna six years ago from Portland, where he lived for 20 years. He sold his house and business and headed to Laguna. 

“Shortly after, I met my future wife Kristen Thompson on a photographic tour to South East Asia. She exhibits at the Sawdust Festival and has worked at Fawn Memories for 26 years, now as manager,” says Cross.

Click on photo for a larger image

Mission accomplished, checking out

Doug and Kristen still travel to Asia, although not this year, and four years ago, they started importing Fair Trade upcycled items from Cambodia – cement bags that are transformed into bags, wallets, and shoulder bags and decorated with unique patterns such as fish embedded in the material. They also have a photographic line of greeting cards that can be found at the store.

Through their travels there, they became involved in Friends-International, an international social enterprise and registered non-governmental organization focusing on children’s empowerment established in Cambodia in 1994. 

So next time you go into the store, you’ll know a little backstory on the people who work there. If you go there often enough, you’ll realize that Coast Hardware is much more than just a store – it’s a place where the staff members remember your name, give your dog a treat, and answer your crazy questions with a smile.

Coast Hardware is located at 240 Broadway St. 

For more information, go to www.coastacehardware.comor call (949) 497-4404.

Promenade “experiment” extended

By BARBARA DIAMOND

Laguna Beach residents and visitors will be able enjoy outdoor activities at the Promenade on Forest, at least until January 2024 and maybe longer.

The City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday to extend the temporary use permit for outdoor dining and retail display through December and directed staff to solicit proposals for analysis, design, and entitlement for the conversion to a permanent plaza.

“Not many good things come out of COVID – this is one of them,” said Mayor Pro Tem Sue Kempf.

The experimental Promenade was opened to the public on June 15 as an experiment to test whether restaurants and shops would benefit from the creation of a gathering spot downtown.

It enjoyed immediate success. Assistant City Manager Shohreh Dupuis said that 96 percent of the visitors to the Promenade in its first three months  supported the concept.

The majority liked the layout and the look, she said.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Promenade on Forest opening on June 15

Open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, the Promenade features six dining decks, 41 tables, retail displays, and public art. Before the state issued its stay-at-home order, musicians performed and artists demonstrated their work.

“It has been so much better than I envisioned,” said Councilman Peter Blake.

However, the loss of 47 parking spaces on the vehicle-free block is a concern to some folks, including Councilwoman Toni Iseman.

She cautioned that the effect of the lost parking could not be evaluated based on the traffic counts last summer, which were reduced by COVID-19.

However city staff said the construction of a parking structure could solve the problem.

While the comments from business owners were positive, concerns were expressed by members of the public about the wisdom of making the Promenade permanent, given the uncertain financial impact of the pandemic.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Promenade during the summer

“I question why we have to make it permanent now,” said Michele Monda. “Revenue is down, expenses are up. Pensions are coming up. It’s a bamboozle.”

Staff estimated the cost of the preliminary design and entitlement would range between $325,000 and $400,000.

Dupuis expects to bring a recommendation for a consulting team to the council in April.

The project would analyze the impact of traffic on the surrounding area and needed improvements to mitigate the impacts and address the reduction in parking spaces.

Comprehensive hardscape and landscape improvements would be required. The improvements would include leveling the street, reconstructing sidewalks, new lighting, and permanent umbrellas with heating elements.

If approved by the council, the design would be put out to bid.

The estimated total cost for the project ranges between $2.5 and $3 million, according to the staff. The design would consider vehicular and pedestrian access, pedestrian orientation, neighborhood compatibility, General Plan compliance, and sustainability.

A permanent pedestrian plaza would require a Coastal Development Permit, be appealable to the California Coastal Commission, and subject to evaluation pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, which would determine the level of environmental review.

Local takes part in COVID-19 vaccine rollout at Disneyland parking lot – OC’s first super site

By DIANNE RUSSELL

“It was a very uplifting experience,” says Laguna resident Jahn Levitt after she and her husband received their COVID-19 vaccinations on Wednesday at Orange County’s first super site in the Disneyland parking lot.

The Super POD (point-of-distribution) site in Anaheim off Katella Avenue and the 5 freeway is the first of five planned to be set up around Orange County in coming weeks. It is a critical step in the county leaders’ new goal of delivering 1.5 million shots per month. 

On Monday, it was announced that people age 65 and over can be vaccinated at the outset of this next broader stage of the county’s vaccination campaign, called “Operation Independence.” 

“I reached this decision after carefully reviewing cases, hospitalization/intensive care units (ICUs), and mortality data related to older adults and noting the especially concerning outcomes for this specific population here in OC,” said Orange County Health Officer Dr. Clayton Chau. “My aim is to reduce hospitalizations and deaths as rapidly as possible, and we must prioritize our vaccine allocation to protect the most vulnerable in our community.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Jahn Levitt receiving coronavirus vaccination

The campaign name reflects the goal of July 4 as the day Orange County residents can begin lifting lockdown rules and return to some semblance of normal life. That means 70 percent, or over 2.2 million people, will have to be vaccinated by then to meet that goal.

Levitt says, “I was in disbelief that it was going to happen. It was very organized and well-orchestrated. They divided the cars and directed us to the parking places. Socially spaced out, we only had a one-hour wait in line. They announced my appointment, and we started toward the tent at 11:30 a.m. It was so easy. I had no trepidation. There was no pushing, people were respectful and just thankful. In the tent, the doctor was upbeat and I didn’t feel a thing when I got the shot.”

After the vaccination, she was directed to a tent to wait for 20 minutes to see if there were any negative responses to the vaccine. Levitt received the Moderna vaccine.

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Vaccinations ready to go

Officials reported that they planned to distribute 10,000 shots from Wednesday through Friday at the Disneyland site, with a goal of 3,000 per day after that. 

Levitt has high praise for the volunteers. “There were just ordinary people and some from the fire stations. They were respectful, positive, and clapped after people received their shots.” 

As for aftereffects, she says her arm is a little sore, similar to after a flu shot.

There will be limited appointment slots to begin with through the county’s www.Othena.com, a phone app and website appointment system developed by the county in partnership with CuraPatient. 

“As soon as the vaccine supply is replenished, additional appointment windows (will) open up,” Deanne Thompson, spokeswoman for the county’s vaccination rollout, reported to the OC Register. “This whole structure now is dependent on supply. We know what we’re doing, we just need vaccines.”

Officials cautioned people without appointments not to show up at any of the sites. They will be turned away and are just slowing down the system.

Seniors have other options for vaccination. Eligible residents can contact their own doctors and health providers.

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Tents set up – with volunteers

Frontline health care workers are also still being vaccinated. Hospital workers were the first to start the two-part vaccination process last month, when OC received the vaccines. 

According to Voice of OC, the state has set a goal of 1 million new vaccinations by the end of the week.

As quoted in the OC Register, “The end of COVID-19 is in sight,” Dr. Clayton Chau, OC Health Care Agency director and county health officer, said Wednesday at the Disneyland site. 

“Until we get more vaccines, I would ask for your patience and allow vulnerable seniors with chronic health conditions the opportunity to get vaccinated first.”

As Orange County adds to its limited stock of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, the Super POD structure will allow for easy scaling up to meet demand, Chau said.

There’s still no timeframe on when the other large sites will open. Last week, Huntington Beach City Manager Oliver Chi told Voice of OC that the other large vaccination sites will be at Knott’s Berry Farm, the Orange County Fairgrounds, The Great Park, and Soka University.

“We will roll it out based on the amount of vaccine we can get into Orange County. So we’re not going to open them all up if the vaccine is not available,” Chau said.

Lawsuit challenges “voluntary” Historical Preservation Program

By BARBARA DIAMOND

The Laguna Beach Historic Preservation Coalition, Village Laguna, and Preserve Orange County electronically filed a lawsuit Monday alleging that the City violated the California Environmental Quality Act when it revamped its Historical Preservation Program in 2020.

Both Laguna Beach groups and the County organization oppose the City’s approval of the program without an environmental impact report, as well as the requirement for an owner’s consent for a property to be considered a local historic resource. 

“The program will cause needless, irreversible damage to the city’s charming beach-town character,” said Village Laguna President Anne Caenn in a press release issued Tuesday by the group’s attorney, Susan Brandt Hawley. 

More than 30 public meetings were held before the program was approved 4-1, with councilwoman Toni Iseman opposed, last year in August. The hearings were among the most contentious ever conducted in the City Council Chambers. 

“The proposal adopted by the City is contingent on California Coastal Commission approval,” said City Attorney Philip Kohn. 

Community development director Marc Wiener said the commission has indicated it would conduct a hearing on the program in early summer. 

The ordinance was introduced at the July 14, 2020 City Council meeting and sent to a required second reading with modifications. The Council also approved a Negative Declaration on the program, an assumption that it will have no unmitigable adverse impact on the environment. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Historic home on Flora Street

“These properties, which are essential to the remarkable charm of Laguna, are now at risk of substantial alteration or demolition without any environmental reviews,” stated Preservation Coalition member Cathy Jurka in the press release. 

“Some owners of 1981 inventory properties spoke at public hearings about wanting to demolish or radically alter them,” she said.

“The City’s position that removing environmental protections could not impact these historic resources defies common sense.”

Laguna Beach attorney Larry Nokes, who spent more than three years speaking on behalf of the voluntary requirement and representing property owners opposed to “involuntary” inclusion of their property as a historical resource, said the lawsuit was “unfortunate.” 

”It is a big overreach on people’s ability to use their own property,” said Nokes on Wednesday. “The voluntary, incentive-based preservation program was accepted and approved by the vast majority of the community.” 

Krista Nicholds, president of Preserve Orange County, questioned the validity of the owner-consent requirement, according to the press release.

“Owner consent has nothing to do with objective standards of historic merit,” she stated. 

However, the City’s stated objective of the program when it was approved was to safeguard the heritage of the city by encouraging voluntary protection of historic resources representing significant elements of its history.

Other objectives:

--Enhance the visual character of the city by encouraging and providing for the voluntary preservation of those buildings that reflect unique and established architectural traditions that contribute to the older neighborhoods of the city.

 --Foster public appreciation and civic pride in the beauty of the city and the accomplishments of its past.

--Strengthen the economy and improve property values of the city by protecting and enhancing the city’s attraction to residents and visitors.

--Promote the private and public use of historic resources for the education, prosperity, and general welfare of the people.

--Achieve historic preservation though the encouragement and promotion of voluntary additions to the city’s Historic Register.

--Recognize that the previous Historic Inventory is ineffective for the purposes of creating a presumption of historicity of any property identified in it.

No words

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Scott Brashier

Every once in a while, there is a sunset, a sky, a sea, a silhouette – the juxtaposition of objects and nature – that defies description

COVID-19: 1,448 new cases and 47 new deaths reported in OC, 4 new cases in Laguna Beach 

Sadly, OC Health Care Agency reports that 2,367 people have died due to COVID-19 in Orange County, including 47 new deaths reported today (January 17). There have been “less than five deaths” of Laguna Beach residents to date.

The county reported 1,448 new cases of COVID-19 in OC today. There have been 210,813 cumulative cases to date.

ICU capacity remains very low and hospitalization numbers very high. The percentage of adult ICU beds currently available in OC is 5.5 percent unadjusted and 0 percent adjusted.* 36 percent of ventilators are currently available countywide.

The county reports that 2,026 individuals are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 (-39 since yesterday’s report – includes ICU); 538 are in ICU (-4 since yesterday’s report).

The county reports that there have been 642 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Laguna Beach to date, including four new cases reported today and 69 new cases reported since last Sunday’s report.

The county estimates 136,506 “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.

COVID-19 numbers are updated daily by Stu News Laguna and reported on our social media pages @StuNewsLaguna.

*Adjusted ICU capacity takes into account the percentage of COVID-19 positive patients in the ICU (the higher the percentage of COVID-19 positive patients in the ICU, the more the adjustment).

Click on photos for larger images

Courtesy of OC Health Care Agency

Orange County COVID-19 case data posted on January 17, as reported by the county; click here to visit page that is updated daily

Guest Letter

Robert T. Braithwaite

President & CEO

Hoag

Vaccine rollout approved for people aged 65+

Dear Neighbors, 

I am writing to let you know about an important update to the county’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout. 

The Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) has now approved vaccinations for people aged 65+, which is an important milestone in the fight against COVID-19. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of Hoag Hospital

Robert T. Braithwaite

We are working quickly to establish dedicated locations to safely provide vaccines for our community, and to obtain the inventory needed to begin inviting eligible patients to schedule vaccine appointments. 

While we know some things such as vaccine inventory are out of our control, we are committed to keeping you informed and updated along the way as to when and how you and your family members can receive COVID-19 vaccinations from Hoag and other county resources. 

I encourage you to visit OCHCA’s Vaccine Distribution site for detailed information. 

In addition, you can visit Hoag’s COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for additional information and resources. 

The coming days and weeks will require patience from us all as we navigate this quickly evolving news. Through it all, we are here to serve as your partners and trusted resource. 

In the meantime, please continue wearing masks, staying home, washing hands, and practicing social distancing. Your vigilant support helps lower cases in the community and allows us to better manage this devastating disease. 

We have been in this together from the beginning, and Hoag will be here with you until this chapter comes to an end.

Sincerely,

Robert T. Braithwaite

President and Chief Executive Officer

LBUSD COVID-19 Dashboard

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of LBUSD

For more information and to access the dashboard, visit www.lbusd.org/resources/covid19/covid-19-reporting

Change a life by donating reading glasses, sunglasses, and hats to Village HopeCare

A dollar doesn’t buy much these days. However, by donating your reading glasses, sunglasses, and baseball hats to Village HopeCare (VHC) – or by donating funds to purchase them – it can change lives. 

The deadline of February 15 is quickly approaching.

One hundred percent of donations go to VHC.

For ten years, Tom Berndt, a realtor with Coldwell Banker in Laguna, has been supplying reading glasses and sunglasses for recipients halfway around the world at Village HopeCore (VHC) at the base of Mt. Kenya (over 6,000 ft) in Cogoria, Kenya. 

Berndt says, “It is a long way from their village (Chogoria) to any kind of store. And they really don’t have the money for glasses, anyway. 

“This year I have only a short time to collect what gets hand carried to the villages. In the past I had six months and marketing meetings with Realtors, who contributed 90 percent of all the donations. But things have changed due to COVID-19. I have only 28 days to collect. 

“One pair of reading glasses can change a life. And my auxiliary, I created 10 years ago, can promise every donation gets to those who need it. By an amazing tiny woman now 80 years young who brings doctors, nurses, dentists, assistants, vitamins, etc. My department is reading glasses, hats, sunglasses.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Kids at orphanage wearing donated baseball hats

Chogoria, Kenya, is a high elevation area on Mt. Kenya. A very simple donation of hats, reading glasses, and sunglasses, which can cost as little as $1, can really affect a life. 

Berndt reports that the box has been filled twice in four days.

“Last year, I also included baseball caps for the two orphanages, and sunglasses. At that altitude, the children develop cataracts early on, hence the glasses and hats. The reading glasses went to the adults. I delivered 1,500 readers, over 400 hats, and over 400 sunglasses. They all know my name on Mt. Kenya, even though I’ve never been there.” 

“Village HopeCore started in the year 2000, with Founder and CEO Dr. Mugambi, the current Medical Director Dr. Phil Rasori, 12 women, and $5,000 USD. Since then, they have launched, grown, and evolved all of their programs to support the health of children and their mothers. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Tom Berndt 

Their website states, “HopeCore’s approach is sustainable and replicable. We treat children and their mothers from conception through 18 years of life. All programming works within existing institutions to ensure longevity of programming. We partner with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, schools, and many others to ensure all activities are working hand in hand with other area interventions and that we do not duplicate efforts.”

Berndt relies on local realtors for donations.

“I started nine years ago just collecting reading glasses. I started this because I use reading glasses, and they’re only a dollar at the 99 Cents store. That’s where I go when I get monetary donations. I clean out the store of all their glasses. Realtors write checks to me, or hand me cash, not expecting a receipt. That’s just the way they are. And they trust I will get their donation to the right place.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Kathy Sangster 

A friendship with Lido Island resident Kathy Sangster sparked Berndt’s interest in VHC. “I became involved knowing Kathy for many years. She lives on Lido Island. She couldn’t be 90 pounds soaking wet and endures usually two to three months there, often returning sick. It is not a healthy environment. Kathy is forced to hand carry all of the items I deliver as luggage, because if sent ahead, it would likely be stolen in the Nairobi airport.”

Berndt says that Kathy, who goes there each year, also collects vitamins. “She travels there with doctors and nurses, dentists, and hygienists. The diet there is terrible, as is the general health. Dentists end up just pulling teeth all day. The doctors treat all manner of malady. And they go there on their own dime. The nurses too.”

To donate reading glasses, sunglasses, or baseball hats, there are drop boxes at Coldwell Banker at 31582 S Coast Hwy in Laguna Beach or at Coldwell Banker at 27111 Camino De Estrella in Dana Point.

To donate funds, call Tom at (949) 633-5100 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For more information about Village HopeCore, go to www.villagehopecore.org.

Where’s Maggi?

Where did Maggi spy this artistic feature?

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.

Click on photo for a larger image

Large sunfish spotted off Emerald Bay

This is a Mola Mola, also called a sunfish, the largest bony fish alive. This little guy gave passengers aboard the Nautilus a little show while cruising off the coast of Emerald Bay last Sunday. This one decided to breach right in front of the Nautilus’ audience.

The Nautilus is part of the fleet from Newport Landing & Davey’s Locker Whale Watching in Newport Beach.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of @NewportWhales

Mola Mola breaches off Emerald Bay

“The Mola Mola is born the size of a pinhead, and they hatch from their planktonic egg state at just 2 mm,” according to Jessica Roame, the education manager for the company. “As adults, sunfish will have grown 60 million times their size from birth, and Mola Mola larvae will gain about 1 lb. per day until they reach their full adult size at 2,200 lbs. Surprisingly, their main diet is jellyfish.”

Newport Landing Whale Watching & Davey’s Locker Whale Watching depart multiple times a day from Newport Harbor for tours lasting some two and in-half hours.

Click on photo for a larger image

Guest Column

From Laguna With Love: Hands across the sand

By Jackie Siegel Bayless

I stand on Main Beach, marveling at the size of the crowd gathered in support of our clean ocean, gathered to protest offshore seismic testing and drilling. It is February, but this is Laguna, so it is T-shirt weather, balmy and bright. I breathe in the energy and excitement. Two men carry a mermaid to a bench set in front of the Lifeguard Tower, where she is surrounded by children and photographers. She has long curly Disney-mermaid hair and is wearing a luminescent red-gold tail. 

A blue-shirted organizer from Oceana, a nonprofit devoted to saving the world’s oceans, introduces speakers, including the actor Ted Danson, a strong Oceana supporter. I see the bartender from the 1980s TV show Cheers – you know, the neighborhood bar where everybody knows your name. But I hear someone who loves the sea. He speaks of his childhood visits to Laguna Beach, the swelling feeling of anticipation, and of coming home to a special place as his parents drove down Laguna Canyon Road. I feel that same sense of home and anticipation on this beach, as well as when I near the Atlantic beaches where I grew up on the other side of the country.

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Actor and Oceana board member Ted Danson speaks at the February 3, 2018 rally at Main Beach

The work of Oceana covers many areas related to clean oceans, but today we are gathered to stop seismic air gun testing used by the oil and gas companies to locate the optimum spot to drill for oil or gas. Seismic exploration injures whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals and disturbs the feeding and mating patterns of many fish. 

Following the speeches, the Oceana volunteers invite me and hundreds of Laguna Beach residents to stand on the beach and link hands in solidarity. This moment of “hands across the sands” is a vivid demonstration of support for our oceans. I link hands with a woman and an attractive young man. We share smiles. 

We face the ocean where stand up paddleboarders, on cue, reveal signs that spell out “Make our oceans great again.” Our cheers erupt in unison. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Nancy Downes, former Oceana campaign manager for Southern California, and Bayless

Unbelievably, a glossy black sea lion swims by, as if in military review of the troops, sliding between the paddleboarders and the shore, just beyond where the breakers fall. Did that really happen? Cue the sea lion. This is Laguna Beach. 

Transplanted from Maryland 15 years ago, Jackie Siegel Bayless still cannot get over the amazing Laguna Beach weather. 

Organized by the Laguna-based nonprofit Third Street Writers, “From Laguna with Love” features personal stories (anecdotes of up to 200 words and longer pieces up to 750 words) and photographs that celebrate only-in-Laguna moments and experiences, whether they’re funny, sad, insightful, or simply a reflection of daily interactions. If you or someone you know has a Laguna experience to share, you can submit your story or photo to https://thirdstreetwriters.submittable.com/submit for consideration. 

Questions? Contact Amy Dechary at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Low tide afterglow

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Cleo Street

Dennis’ Tidbits

By DENNIS McTIGHE 

January 15, 2021

Hot stuff

This weekend marks the anniversary of a couple of noteworthy earth science events from yesteryear. On January 16, 1971, Laguna recorded its warmest January day on record, a record that remains intact. The mercury hit 88 here in town, while downtown L.A. hit 95, also an all-time record that still stands. 

Ontario took top honors that day with a scorching 98! Unusually hot, dry Santanas heated up the entire Southland, setting records in a majority of SoCal communities. Humidity levels were down into the single digits in some areas and with the strong Santanas blowing you’d think that wildfires would break out, but that did not happen thanks to ample rains in November and December of 1970. With the two months’ total of near ten inches, all vegetation was well-soaked with lots of new green growth as well as new green grassland, plus the soils were near the saturation levels, so the wilderness areas really dodged a bullet.

January 17 marks the holiday honoring the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A significant seismological event occurred on January 17, 1994, as most of the Southland was rudely awakened and shaken out of bed at 4:20 a.m. by a powerful 6.9 earthquake centered about two miles west of Northridge. It was the most significant urban earthquake to occur in California since the 8.0 San Francisco Quake in 1906. The Northridge quake was quite shallow at around ten miles, so violent shaking was felt over an area of approximately 2,190 square miles. Residents within that area experienced over one thousand aftershocks with a magnitude of 1.5 – 4.5 for weeks after the original shaker.

Nearly 100 deaths and 9,000 injuries resulted from the incident. More than 50,000 people were displaced from their homes and thousands were forced to move to temporary shelters in schools and churches, or camp in city parks and endure the chilly temps and rain, although only about a half inch fell that month after a very wet previous two months. But nighttime temps average in the high 30s to low 40s out there in January.

More than 114 thousand residential and commercial structures were damaged in the area despite the fact that seismic building code provisions and other mitigations had been intensified, especially since the Loma Prieta earthquake on October 17, 1989. Total damage from the Northridge quake was estimated at 17 billion. This event brought to light the difficulties in protecting Californians from their seismically unsafe environment. 

Here in Laguna we’re about 80 miles south of Northridge, but because the quake was so shallow the shaking way down here was still pretty violent. That quake was felt as far south as San Diego and as far north as the Big Sur area. Other significant shakers felt in Laguna were on July 10, 1952, on the Inyo-Kern Fault by the Grapevine, and that was a 7.5. I was almost five then and still lived in Hollywood where I was born, but I do remember the violent shaking that lasted nearly two minutes. 

I was still stationed in Hawaii in the Air Force when the 6.6 quake hit near Sylmar on February 9, 1971. I heard it shook pretty good here in Laguna. The Windy Point quake near Palm Springs was a 6.0 at 2:24 a.m. and it woke me up right away. That was on July 9, 1986. Five days later, a 5.3 quake struck a few miles off Oceanside at 7 a.m., and the shaking was strong enough to completely knock out that huge front window at Fingerhut Gallery on the corner of Forest Avenue and PCH. 

On October 1, 1987, there was a 6.0 at 8 a.m. near Whittier Narrows Dam that damaged a lot of old vintage buildings from the 1890s in uptown Whittier. On June 28, 1992, there was a 7.5 quake near Landers, Calif. way out in the desert past Joshua Tree. It was very deep, about 50 miles, so the sensation from it was more of a rolling motion. That quake struck at about 5 a.m. Three hours later a real shaker hit up at Big Bear and that was a 6.6. The quake was shallow, about twelve miles, so you could really feel the shaking here in town. 

Then, of course, the Northridge monster hit on June 17, 1994, and on October 15 at 2 a.m., a 7.3 hit way out by Landers again. 

Lucky for us, most of these quakes were far away enough so damage from all these was minimal here. The San Andreas is way overdue for a fatty. Hope it’s later rather than sooner! 

Have a great weekend, ALOHA!

Laguna COVID-19 matching grant relief fund for residents and employees has been launched

To provide direct financial assistance to individuals and employees living or working in Laguna Beach who have been impacted by COVID-19, the Laguna Beach City Council set aside a $300,000 matching grant for Phase 2 of the Laguna COVID-19 Relief Fund as part of the City’s $1.4 million in economic assistance for restaurants, bars, retail, and community members.

Launched on January 11, the Laguna COVID-19 Relief Fund, administered by the Laguna Beach Community Foundation (LBCF), will provide Emergency Assistance Mini-Grants up to a maximum of $1,000 per household to individuals living or working* in Laguna Beach, with emphasis on those in the restaurant, hospitality, retail, and personal services industries. 

All donations made to the Laguna COVID-19 Relief Fund are tax deductible and will be matched by the City of Laguna Beach up to $300,000. The fund has already pre-fundraised $30,000, which was matched by the City of Laguna Beach via check this week.

Mayor urges the community to help too

“Right now, we are in the darkest days of this pandemic and hundreds of local workers and residents have been laid off again,” said Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen. “They are stretched to the breaking point to pay their rent, keep their utilities turned on, and feed their families. 

“I urge our community to do what it always does in times of crisis, which is to rise to the challenge and raise $300,000 to match the City funds. Please dig deep and give what you can to help the cause.”

The Emergency Assistance Mini-Grants will be awarded to applicants consistent with the mission and focus of the Laguna COVID-19 Relief Fund. Applications will be reviewed by the Laguna Beach Community Foundation COVID-19 Fund Advisors and Community Committee, and grants will be awarded to support those most affected and in need.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of City of Laguna Beach

Mayor Bob Whalen encourages community support for the relief fund and the wearing of masks to reduce spread of the virus

“Our mission is to assist as many of our neighbors as we can during this pandemic by providing emergency assistance mini-grants to individuals and families to pay for the necessities of life,” said Tom Davis, chair of the Laguna Beach Community Foundation. “We want to thank the City of Laguna Beach for stepping up by providing up to $300,000 in matching funds for this program. It is up to the rest of us to raise the funds to meet this challenge.”

Once selected to receive assistance and financial support, payments will be received in the form of checks, gift cards, or other means as determined appropriate by the Fund Advisors. The Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach is partnering with the LBCF to provide practical assistance in the process of application submission and grant delivery.

Boys & Girls Club assists with implementation

“The Boys & Girls Club is proud to partner with the Laguna Beach Community Foundation and the City of Laguna Beach to help those who have been hit hardest by the economic impact of COVID,” said Pam Estes, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club. “The people we are helping make up the fabric of our community and have been there for all of us in good times. We are grateful to be able to be here for them when times are tough.” 

The Laguna COVID-19 Relief Fund was formed in April 2020 to provide up to $1,000 to individuals living or working in Laguna Beach who had suffered hardship from the COVID-19 pandemic. During the program’s first phase, $475,000 was distributed to 850 Laguna Beach residents and employees through the contributions of 75 individuals. 

“The City Council has approved a $300,000 matching grant to again provide for the City’s workers and residents as the pandemic has again forced businesses to close. We hope that those who are in a position to help will again contribute to the Laguna COVID-19 Relief Fund to help those in need,” said Bob Mister, co-chair of the Laguna COVID-19 Relief Fund.

To donate to the Laguna COVID-19 Relief Fund, click here or you may donate via PayPal.

You may also donate by sending checks to: Laguna COVID19 Relief Fund, 580 Broadway St, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.

For grant application information, visit the program’s website at www.lagunacovid19relief.com. For further questions, please call Tom Davis, Chair of the Laguna Beach Community Foundation, at (949) 416-2822.

*Please note that City of Laguna Beach employees, appointed officials, and their immediate families are not eligible for the Laguna COVID-19 Relief Fund.

LBHS senior holds third Annual Shoe Drive to help Soles4Souls fight global poverty

By DIANNE RUSSELL

For the third year, Laguna Beach High School senior Jessie Rose will hold her Annual Shoe Drive to benefit Soles4Souls. Soles4Souls is a nonprofit social enterprise that creates sustainable jobs and provides relief through the distribution of shoes and clothing around the world. Founded in 2006, the organization has distributed more than 30 million pairs of new and used shoes in 127 countries. 

One person’s unwanted shoes can help provide meaningful opportunities that many in developing nations need, which is why Jessie launched a shoe drive to collect new or gently new shoes. 

In the past two years, Jessie has collected more than 900 pairs of shoes, and her goal this year is to surpass 500. The deadline for shoe donations is February 15.

Jessie was involved with Soles4Souls at a young age. When she was eight and living in Colorado, her mother collected shoes for Soles4Souls. “I remember being in the garage helping her pack them up. Then when we moved to California, and I needed to do community service, I recalled how rewarding it was for my mother, and I decided to hold shoe drives for Soles4Souls.”

At Soles4Souls, they turn unwanted shoes and clothing into opportunity, by keeping the shoes from going to waste and putting them to good use – providing relief, creating jobs, and empowering people to break the cycle of poverty. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Jessie during last year’s shoe drive

Financial impact: Shoes are a resource that individuals who live in extremely poor countries can use to start a small business. Shoe donations mean a constant supply of quality product. This ensures these fledgling businesses can be sustained long-term. Small business owners earn sufficient income to purchase necessities like food, shelter, and education for their families. 

Environmental impact: By collecting discarded shoes and clothing for our micro-enterprise program, 66 million pounds of textiles have been kept out of U.S. landfills, helping to preserve our planet for future generations. The average person in North America throws away 70 pounds of textiles every year. That’s 21 billion pounds of extra waste dumped in our landfills every year! And the EPA estimates only 15 percent is donated or recycled.

Jessie, who has committed to play water polo for the University of California, Berkeley in the fall, will likely continue the drive with her water polo team, and her brother, who attends LBHS, will continue the drive next year.

Drop-off locations: 

--645 St. Ann’s Dr (behind the high school baseball field) – drop bag off at the bottom of the steps

--2925 Mountain View Dr (Top of the World)

For questions, call (303) 898-4392 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For more information about Soles4Souls, go to www.soles4souls.org.

The quality of light

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Diane Van Dalfsen

Sunset over Catalina on January 13. When we see a red sky at night, it means that the setting sun is sending its light through a high concentration of dust particles. This usually indicates high pressure and stable air coming in from the west and that good weather will follow.

Guest Column

Still a new year – Let’s start afresh 

By Dr. Vidya Reddy

Hello, and welcome to the New Year Corner. As we are still gasping at the uncertainty that’s unfolding all around us, I’ve decided to look at the whole month of January as a stepping stone to create a brand-new year.

So, even though we’re mid-January, let’s take this opportunity to look at this new year with fresh new eyes. And, as it always is at the beginning of every year, it’s like a blank slate: the year can be whatever you want it to be.

This is freeing, exhilarating, magical.

Take advantage of it, my friends.

Of course, we always have the magic of a fresh start available to us – in any day, any hour, any moment. Every morning is a beautiful fresh start! In fact, right this moment, you have the opportunity of a fresh start.

We should take advantage of these opportunities to see the freshness of the moment in front of us.

Start at One – this is one of my mantras this year.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Johnny Antezana

Dr. Vidya Reddy

I recently was talking with my guruji (my spiritual master) and admitted I hadn’t been studying as much as I’d committed to doing. He advised: “Start at one.” It happens that in basic breath meditation, where you might count your breaths, your mind will get distracted and wander. And then you can simply start at one.

Let’s look at how to practice with this during each day, and a couple ways you can take advantage of Starting at One as we look at this beautiful year in front of us. 

As a thought exercise, I’ve learned a lot of things over the past few months and feel compelled to share them with you in the spirit of robust helpfulness. If you would like more information, techniques, and meditation based on Life Lessons, please refer to my podcast: https://naturally-happy.com/blog/. 

Practicing a fresh start in each day

Every morning, you get to ask yourself:

--What would I like to do with this incredible day?

--What would make today incredible for me?

--What am I feeling called to do today? What’s most important?

You can wipe the slate clean of whatever happened the day before (no matter what it was), and just start anew.

And then you get a couple hours into it, and maybe you find yourself off course. You’ve gotten distracted or caught up in busywork.

Start again.

Take a breath, and imagine this next moment is a blank slate. What is most important right now? What would you like to do with this incredible hour in front of you?

Start again. And find gratitude that you get to start again, over and over.

Practicing with the blank slate of the new year

We’re about two weeks into the new year, and you might have already started to lose the freshness of this year. But we’re just starting out! We’re at the very beginning, and we can do whatever we like with this year.

Start at One.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Pieter Baetens

One door closes, another opens for a fresh start

--What would make this an amazing year for you?

--What is possible for you this year?

--Who would you like to be?

Take a notebook and pen, and spend 30 minutes thinking about this fresh space, and writing out some notes.

Is this the year you finally write your book, launch something, create something? Grow your business to a new level, launch a new mission, help others in a big way? Tackle something hard and scary and meaningful?

Are there new habits you want to create?

This is your year, to use however you like. What magic can you create?

Putting it into action

Once you have an idea of what you’d like to do or create…it’s time to make it actually happen.

Write it down and commit to it. Tell others and promise to report to them weekly. Adjust your plan each week, with the blank slate of the new week. Do a review each month and get yourself back on track with each fresh month.

One small step at a time, make it happen. One fresh start at a time.

In Peace, Love and Gratitude. 

‘Til next time.

Dr. Vidya Reddy, ND, AMS, DAC, CLC

www.Naturally-Happy.com

Laguna Beach Business Club kicks off 2021 speaker series with Mayor Bob Whalen

The Laguna Beach Business Club is proud to announce Mayor Bob Whalen as the kick-off speaker at its meeting on Thursday, Jan 21. 

As COVID-19 restrictions prevent the usual in-person Breakfast Club meetings, LBBC currently hosts a Zoom virtual breakfast meeting the third Thursday of each month at 8:30 a.m., with speakers who discuss topics valuable to achieving success in one’s personal and professional lives. No fee will be charged for virtual attendance by the public until in-person meetings are resumed. 

With the past year of turmoil for our business community and uncertainty about 2021, Mayor Whalen will speak to the successful efforts the City of Laguna Beach has taken and will continue to take on behalf of our business owners and residents amidst the COVID-19 chaos. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Mayor Bob Whalen to speak at LBBC January 21 virtual meeting 

Whalen is currently serving as the Mayor of Laguna Beach. He was first elected to the City Council in November 2012 and was re-elected in November 2016 and in November 2020. He is now serving his fourth term as Mayor (third consecutive). 

Whalen has a long record of public service in the City having served as a board member and President of several local nonprofit groups including SchoolPower, the Boys and Girls Club of Laguna Beach, and Laguna Beach Little League. Before his election to the City Council, Whalen served nearly 10 years on the Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education and four years on the City’s Planning Commission. 

In his professional life, Whalen is an attorney with the firm of Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth in Newport Beach where he has practiced for 39 years as a public finance attorney assisting public agencies throughout the State to finance and build necessary infrastructure. His three children all attended and graduated from Laguna Beach High School and his wife, Kirsten, is an artist who is active in the community serving on the Board of LOCA and as a 10-year exhibitor at the Festival of Arts. 

The LBBC is a group of local business professionals and entrepreneurs. The group meets monthly to discuss current events, business opportunities, and share insights within the context of our community and our lives. The club’s goal is to build and maintain relationships with local professionals and businesses they are proud to recommend to clients and friends.

For more information about the LBBC or to obtain the Zoom link for the meeting on January 21, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and visit  www.lagunabeachbusinessclub.com.

Heaven in a sunset

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Scott Brashier

Fingers of pink clouds reaching for the sun

Club founded by LBHS junior helps people in the community experiencing homelessness

By DIANNE RUSSELL 

In March of 2020, Eva Fast, a junior at Laguna Beach High School, founded a club to provide meals to the people in our community who are experiencing homelessness. At that time, the COVID-19 pandemic forced closures, creating an abrupt interruption in meal options for our local population. 

As the club approaches its one-year anniversary, Eva and the members of the club continue to accomplish a great deal.

Kristin, Eva’s mother, says, “We began, as a family, delivering approximately 20 bagged lunches every Saturday, first to the library and then, as restrictions lifted, to Main Beach. When Eva returned to school, she formed a club.”

In the beginning, Jayden Lund – a senior at LBHS and VP of the club – and his family participated along with the Fast family in preparing and delivering the lunches.

Delivering meals

Carrying on what the families started, “The club members drop off the food just before 9 a.m. every single Saturday, and they are just as pleased to help as the (mostly) men are to see them,” Kristin says.

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Founder and President Eva Fast with lunches ready to deliver

The club has now grown into a group of 40. The responsibilities of buying and preparing the lunches go to two appointed members every week, who each have a financial commitment of $20 for purchasing the food.

Reaching out to those who are experiencing homelessness is not a new endeavor for Eva. “I’ve been working with them all my life. My grandfather advocates for them here in Laguna. I’ve always had compassion and empathy for those experiencing homelessness by looking at them in a different way, trying to see what put them there, and viewing them as people.” 

The desire to be involved in this issue is shared by junior Issy King. “Eva and I have been friends for a while, and when I heard she founded a club dedicated to helping the homeless, I wanted to support her and also do something good for the community.”

The visits involve much more than just dropping off a meal.

While delivering lunches, the members interact with those at Main Beach. 

Eva says, “They offer to help carry the packages and then sit and chat to see what’s going on. I’m an ice skater, and they often ask about how that’s going.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Vice President Jayden Lund shopping for groceries

In all cases, club participation has significantly altered the way members perceive those without permanent homes.

Issy says, “When I dropped off the food downtown, my boyfriend, Tyler Fields, and I had a great conversation with one of the men. He was so kind and was telling us about how appreciative he is to live in Laguna beach and see the ocean every day. “

“We usually socialize with three of the group down there. These three speak for all of them, and they (and we) have a mutual respect for each other,” Jayden says.

A change in perspective

Jayden admits that working with the group at Main Beach changes one’s perspective. After taking someone down there to help, the response was, “Well, that was not what I expected. They’re really nice.” 

“The club has helped me realize the extent of the issue in the community. There are so many more than meet the naked eye that are struggling to get through the week with sufficient food and resources. The club has also reminded me how nice, genuine, and kind-hearted the homeless in our community are,” says senior Griffin Kristensen. “Eva is super smart, hardworking, and good-hearted, so I knew her club would be a great success and great opportunity to help those in the community as soon as she told me about it.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Griffin Kristensen loads waters 

Junior Maggie Meekma, says, “I decided to join Eva’s club as an opportunity to help and connect with those who are less fortunate within my community while also receiving community service hours for school. Eva’s club allows me to assist the homeless while also putting a smile on their faces.”

More ways to help

No one will deny that the subject of homelessness in our community is a complex one.

Jayden offers a comment, “For such a small town, Laguna has a lot of people experiencing homelessness. Laguna does great things for the schools, etc., but more interaction with community members would lead to connection and a willingness for residents to be more inclusive.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Maggie Meekma ready with lunch bags

“There can never be too much funding for organizations and groups that hope to combat homelessness. So, I would say that I urge people and the city to give sufficient funds to organizations like ASL, etc.,” says Griffin. “Additionally, small, everyday actions can have a big impact – whether that is donating money or creating your own food drive.” 

“I think that Eva’s club is the perfect way for helping the community! It motivated me to be more involved in the homeless situation in Laguna. I think that maybe instead of doing 20 lunches packs once a week, we could instead do it twice or three times a week,” says Issy.

Looking to the future

Dedicated to continuing with the charge to help this segment of the population, the club is just the beginning for Eva, Jayden, Griffin, Issy, and Maggie.

Expanding her commitment, during the summer, Eva worked with the ACLU and will continue to work with small groups and keep advocating for those experiencing homelessness.

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Issy King loading sandwich bags into the car

As a senior major, Jayden worked with a non-governmental organization in Los Angeles, and with a higher level of resources, wants to continue working with those experiencing homelessness.

“This experience has shown me that the homeless are still very grateful for what little they have despite their struggles. I will continue to help the homeless in the future by spreading awareness regarding the issues of mental illness, poverty, unemployment, and addiction, which all contribute to the epidemic of homelessness. By encouraging the use of the homeless shelter, giving out lunches, and even donating small sums, I believe we will move a step closer towards helping the homeless situation in our beautiful town,” says Maggie.

Griffin says, “I hope that I can create or join a club like this one in college and continue to make an impact in my local community.”

“After joining Eva’s club and helping the homeless,” says Issy, “it motivated me to join another club at the high school that brings food to the food pantry.” 

In these challenging times, this is a particularly uplifting story – one that gives us pride in the younger generation and hope for the future.

Low tide languishing

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Lots of beach for canine strolling

Deal of the Century: Brussels Bistro’s Monthly Meal Plan

By Diane Armitage

This holiday, while perusing some of my favorite Laguna Beach restaurant sites for various takeout options, I stumbled across an amazing deal that almost seemed too good to be true. 

Brussels Bistro had begun a new offer: A subscription of $89 a month gets you 10 new chef-crafted meals, all delivered at once to your door. You pay tax and optional shipping if you want these meals sent anywhere. I could, realistically, send these same meals to my Mom in Oregon.

One of the finer restaurants in Laguna Beach offering 10 foodie items for about $9 per meal? This was a no-brainer for me. I might have been their first subscriber.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of Brussels Bistro

Brussels Bistro has begun a fantastic $89 monthly subscription

Of course, Brussels can deliver all 10 meals at once because they were the first – and still the only real primary player – in Laguna Beach to come up with dinners delivered sous vide style. 

Sous vide was developed by French chefs ages ago. Its cooking technique vacuum seals food in a bag to then cook in a low-temperature water bath, allowing the food to baste in its own juices. The process delivers perfectly cooked-to-temperature foods. 

Brussels Bistro simply creates a number of newly-crafted dishes, and then individually vacuum seals and flash freezes your month’s allotment of 10 meals. 

Gourmet meals in a bag

While the $89 monthly subscription is new for Brussels Bistro, their classic sous vide style is not. This is a technique they’ve used in their kitchen for years for even the diciest of dishes. 

When COVID hit last March, it was a matter of days before ingenious business partners Thomas Crijns and Nicolas Servais came up with a combination of fresh-made, refrigerated or frozen sous vide packs of everything from their famous Mushroom Soup to their quite delectable Boeuf Bourguignon. 

Every meal comes with directions for baking, cooking, or simply sliding a plastic pack into a pot of warm water on the stove. Not ready to cook it all up? No problem. Store your tidily vacuum-packed food in your refrigerator for three days or in your freezer indefinitely. 

Even better: Simply call in your order 24 hours in advance. Then, drive down to pick it up in the alley in Laguna Beach behind the restaurant for contactless delivery. Just pop the trunk and they hustle out, place it in your trunk and you’re off and running. The same service is available at their San Clemente store. 

Extensive menu and super easy directions

Last spring, my dear foodie friends, Terri and Greg, were the first to avail themselves of this new Brussels Bistro style, and they were all raves. Once I jumped in, I was all in, too. The food is remarkably great and I kind of feel that pride of cookin’ ownership because, hey, I’m at least turning on an oven or warming a pot of water. 

Over the summer and into the fall, Brussels continued to expand on its sous vide menu options. Their online menu is quite extensive now. And, with each month the delivery is somehow more polished and slicker. 

At Christmas, I picked up a number of items packed into a single box with a small QR code sticker on its lid. On their instruction, I just pointed my phone’s camera at the sticker and all the cooking directions for my box of entries slid silently into view. It’s that easy.

A cornucopia of coveted food

About a week ago, having given up on my ability to actually drive from South Laguna into Laguna Beach for my January subscription order, Nicolas called and offered to drop it at my door on his way back to San Clemente. 

He left a giant brown shopping bag at my door, filled to the almost-brim with sliver after sliver of frozen dishes. Additionally, four meals (also frozen) nestled at the bottom in takeout oven tins.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Diane Armitage

January’s 10 meals on the subscription plan from Brussels Bistro

I felt like an astronaut packing away space shuttle food in my freezer. This was too good to be true. 

I chose Roasted Salmon for my first entrée, and while it defrosted, I looked up my January cooking instructions on the website. Beneath the instructions for cooking the various dishes (whether in tins or bagged for warm water plunge), I explored my January menu:

Roasted Salmon, Fingerling Potatoes, and Lemon Crème Sauce

Smoked Bacon and Vegetables over Mashed Potatoes 

Ham, Mushroom and Cheese Au Gratin

Spinach Risotto in a white wine garlic cream sauce

Lamb Burger in Tomato Purée

Chicken and Bell Peppers over Rice

Shepherd’s Pie

Chicken and Brussels Sprouts with Mashed Potatoes

Beef Pasta

Chicken Tagine over Couscous

As you look at these thin slivers of what will be your meal, you may wonder if the serving will fill you up. Believe me, they are beyond hearty in serving size. The Roasted Salmon, atop a roasted celery and fennel cream sauce, turned out to be two servings for me. 

Salmon can be a fickle kind of fish (especially when frozen), but Brussels’ version was moist and perfectly cooked with a sauce that was impeccable.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Diane Armitage

Roasted Salmon

I decided to invite two friends over on Sunday for more testing trials. As social distanced as we were, it was one of the most fun dinners I’ve hosted. It offered a potluck dinner of tastes with “gourmet” being the emphasis on the potluck. This was no Sunday-after-church potluck. 

For me, I find it most difficult to believe that you can properly cook and sous vide a complicated mix of risotto or couscous and, after simply dunking its bag in warm water, have it roll out perfectly plump and non-sticky just a few minutes later. I can’t even do this in real life. This was the case, though, with an oversized serving of Brussels’ fantastic Spinach Risotto and the Chicken Tagine’s underlying couscous.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Diane Armitage

Brussels Bistro’s Spinach Risotto in garlic and white wine cream sauce

We loaded each serving into medium-sized serving bowls and began passing everything. We tried just four dishes and, between the three of us, still had leftovers. 

The Chicken Tagine, a bow to Moroccan flourish, was braised perfectly in spices, olives, and a hint of zesty lemon. The chicken was tender with layer after layer of spice flavor crowned in briny olives. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Diane Armitage

Brussels Bistro’s Chicken Tagine

 Brussels Bistro’s generically named “Beef Pasta” was more of a classic Hungarian Goulash with its American take – prime ground beef – serving as the protein. I just finished those tasty leftovers for lunch today. It is the kind of awesome comfort food we all need these days. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Diane Armitage

Brussels Bistro’s Beef Pasta

The last dish, simply named “Chicken with Bell Peppers,” was as equally lovely. More of what I would consider a Chicken Cacciatore, it hosts large chunks of chicken simmered in a peppers and onion tomato-y sauce. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Diane Armitage

Brussels Bistro’s Chicken and Bell Peppers

Spoil yourself rotten while supporting a Laguna restaurant

Each month, the Brussels Bistro $89 subscription menu changes. Although I still have plenty of their food in my freezer, I’m already eager to see what February brings. 

Thomas and Nicolas have always been serving up one of the most flavorful, internationally-based menus in Orange County. I happen to love the fact that I get to try menu items in this monthly subscription plan that are yet to be published to the rest of the world. This is truly a genius idea at an unbelievably affordable price. Go to www.BrusselsBistro.com to their “Order Online” tab to subscribe.

Note: Because of the amount of work that goes into fulfilling these menus and orders, please no substitutes. 

The best-selling author and blogger on The Best of Laguna Beach™, Diane Armitage is on an endless quest for the most imaginative adventures in Laguna’s restaurants, events, and lifestyle. Check out chef interviews, retail and restaurant news, and favorite events at https://thebestoflagunabeach.com/ and follow on Instagram @BestofLagunaBeach (look for Diane’s smiling face).

Winter wonderland

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Tom Joliet

Winter skies keep the colors coming

Laguna Beach restaurants and retailers receive $575,000 through LB Cares Grant Program

On Friday, Jan 8, 75 Laguna Beach restaurants and 82 Laguna Beach retailers received assistance checks totaling $575,000 from the City of Laguna Beach through the City’s LB CARES Grant Program. Click here for a list of all restaurants and retailers that have received funding through the program to date.

“Our City staff is to be congratulated for implementing this program in record time and getting checks to our local restaurants and businesses in less than three weeks’ time from the Council’s approval,” said Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen. “To distribute nearly $600,000 to over 150 local businesses provides a much-needed boost to our local economy. We will continue to process applications and more businesses will benefit in round two.”

On December 22, 2020, the Laguna Beach City Council approved the $850,000 Grant Program, LB CARES, from City reserves to assist restaurants, bars, and retail businesses experiencing impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant program provided direct financial assistance to these businesses and organizations by offering a $5,000 grant per qualifying restaurant or bar and $2,000-$3,000 grant per qualifying retailer, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Hobie Sports and 81 other Laguna Beach retailers, plus 75 Laguna Beach restaurants, have received LB Cares Grants from the City

“The whole pandemic has been really tough for local businesses, and the fact that Laguna Beach is doing what they are doing with this grant program to help the small businesses in town is amazing,” said LB Cares Grant recipient Brandon Ferguson, owner of The Den Barbershop and Shave Parlor. “It will help us with catching up on bills so I can get caught up and back on track to where we were before the whole thing kind of hit us. Every little bit helps and the fact we were awarded the grant I couldn’t be more thankful.”

LB CARES has been extended to Tuesday, Jan 19 for restaurants and bars only experiencing impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. LB CARES Grant applications for restaurants and bars will be accepted until January 19 at 5 p.m. Grants will be awarded up to the funding amount of $650,000 on a first-come, first-served basis. Go towww.lagunabeachcity.net/LBCares for program details, eligibility restrictions, and to apply. Restaurant and bar applications will be notified after the January 19 deadline closes. The City Council may consider reallocating any unawarded LB CARES funding during its upcoming January 26 meeting.

“What the City gave us was amazing, that they were able to put this together,” said LB CARES Grant recipient Chef Lindsay Smith of Nirvana Grille. “It gave us that little breather, as a lot of us in town are struggling right now.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Lindsay Smith, Chef and Owner of Nirvana Grille, is a grateful recipient of an LB Cares Grant from the City

“It’s really a special program and it is great that the City of Laguna Beach did this for local businesses,” said LB CARES Grant recipient Sun Park, General Manager of Heidelberg Cafe. “It is very helpful for a small business like us, and I am thankful for that.”

In conjunction with LB CARES, the City of Laguna Beach has also established the Laguna Beach Business Assistance Services Program. This new program is being established to help local businesses and nonprofits access available resources offered by state, federal, and county government, help determine the best resources to meet each business’ unique circumstance, and to help businesses with the process of preparing and submitting applications. 

For more information, visit the program’s website at www.lagunabeachcity.net/BusinessAssistance or contact Project Manager Jeremy Frimond at (949) 464-6673 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Local artist now on display at JWA

Local artist Russell Pierce brings mixed media artwork to John Wayne Airport (JWA) in a new exhibit fittingly called Travelogue, featuring traditional art combined with digital design applications to create unique pieces. His work is on display in the Thomas F. Riley Terminal as part of the JWA Community Focus Space from January 14 through February 16.

“Russell Pierce visually transports people and immerses them in the color, architecture, and character of places through his distinctive art,” said Supervisor Andrew Do, Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. 

Artwork depicting pedestrians and food vendors on city streets, detailed architecture of buildings old and new, and well-known landmarks like Coney Island, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Disneyland Monorail, and Cabazon Dinosaurs are some of the pieces featured in Pierce’s Travelogue exhibit.

Click on photo for a larger image

Artwork by Russell Pierce

Courtesy of JWA

“Coney Island” by artist Russell Pierce

“I work in traditional mediums as well as the digital realm mixing and matching graphic applications to fine-tune and polish pieces,” said Pierce. “All of the art featured in Travelogue are painted digitally and output on gleaming metal prints that allow for high color saturation. They have wooden frame backs that give them the effect of floating off the wall, which is striking and perfect for the subject matter.”

Pierce was the recipient of a 2017 Laguna Beach Arts Alliance grant that provided him with an opportunity to feature his unique art in a one-person show called Change Agents, exhibited in Laguna Beach at the Seven-Degrees venue. The Community Arts Gallery in Laguna Beach also featured Pierce’s Change Agents showcase in 2018. 

Pierce attended the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where he studied graphic design and illustration, and the New York Institute of Technology for computer graphics. To learn more about Russell Pierce and view additional pieces of his artwork, visit www.fineartamerica.com/profiles/russell-pierce.

The exhibit can be viewed (pre-security) on the Departure (upper) Level near security screening areas in Terminals A, B and C and on the Arrival (lower) Level adjacent to Baggage Carousels 1 and 4.

For more information about the John Wayne Airport Arts Program, visit www.ocair.com/terminal/artexhibits.

Treasure Island

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Steve Allegaert

Treasures await just beyond the fence

LCAD MFA students respond to pandemic through exhibition at City Hall

Laguna College of Art + Design (LCAD) MFA Programs in Drawing + Painting has announced its newest exhibition, COVID Times: LCAD Masters Students Respond to the Pandemic, on display from January 18 through March 4 at Laguna Beach City Hall.

The collection is curated by Peter Zokosky, chair of LCAD MFA Program in Drawing + Painting, from among 20 current Master of Fine Arts candidates.

“While we all experienced the recent pandemic, it’s intriguing to see how artists process times of upheaval; some record how their daily life has changed, some seek refuge in nature or fantasy, while others quarantined with art supplies and found solace in long hours of creative practice,” he said. “Our first exhibition of 2021 is a chance to share the varied personal impressions as a record of resilience and hope.”

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Matt Duckett, “Birthday Girl,” oil on canvas, 2020

One of the works included in the exhibition, Birthday Girl by Matt Duckett, shows the artist’s daughter after her birthday during quarantine.

“On one hand, we couldn’t invite any children to the party and couldn’t go anywhere, so on the surface it may look dark or melancholy,” he said. “But I wanted to go further with that notion, because the painting is also an allegory for growing up, and that can be in itself uncomfortable and melancholy at times. Acknowledging hardship and deferring gratification is just a part of responsibility and growing up is a process of accepting responsibility and building a greater life around those lessons.”

The exhibition will include many works of paintings and drawings submitted by the following MFA candidates: Jason Dowd, Ray Vargas, Agostino Vaccaro, Lin Hui Ding, Jessica Chong, Mark Silverberg, Kelly Smith Fatten, Jody Gerber, Brian Blasman, Matt Duckett, Laura Sonnek, Nora Xu, Renae Wang, Jill Maytorena, Danny DeMeza, Mike Lee, Peter Clarke, Kelley Mogilka, Mason Williams, and Tracy Child.

For more information, visit www.lcad.edu.

Laguna Beach City Hall is located at 505 Forest Ave.

Meet Pet of the Week Murdoch

Murdock is currently taking over Pet of the Week. He is a one-year-old black lab. Murdock can be very protective, so he would do best in a home with no small children. He is good with other dogs and loves to play at all hours of the day. He would do well with a fenced yard at least 6 feet high. Nancy Goodwin, shelter director, is hoping to have Murdock adopted as soon as possible.

Click on photo for a larger image

Murdock is on the search for a place to call home this year 

The Laguna Beach Animal Shelter adoption procedures are designed to make sure that both the potential family and the animal adopted are in the very best situation possible. Due to their approach to adoption, the shelter’s return rate is five percent as compared to the national return rate of 50 percent.

The LB Animal Shelter is located at 20612 Laguna Canyon Rd. For information on adoption procedures, call (949) 497-3552 or go to www.puplagunabeach.org/our-pets.php.

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.