Mayor Whalen challenges residents to take back the title of “Nation’s Most Waterwise City”
“If there’s one thing we can all agree on during these challenging times, it’s that Laguna is Waterwise,” says Mayor Bob Whalen, who is calling on residents to take back the title of “Nation’s Most Waterwise City.”
The 9th Annual National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation, presented by the Wyland Foundation and Toyota, is back on after a four-month postponement due to COVID-19. The month-long competition, usually in April, is taking place during Water Quality Month (August 1-31) and it’s the perfect opportunity for residents to come together as a community to achieve a common goal, the designation of the “Nation’s Most Waterwise City.”
“Let’s be clear, we want you to keep washing your hands and cleaning and disinfecting your surroundings,” says Whalen. “But during these unprecedented times, having a safe and reliable source of water has never been more vital. The Mayor’s Challenge serves as a reminder that we must use water wisely so that it’s available in times like these when we need it most.”
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Mayor Bob Whalen urges community to take back title as “Nation’s Most Waterwise City”
Laguna Beach County Water District provides water service to 19,000 residents within an 8.5 square mile area of Laguna Beach. The District’s mission is to furnish a high quality, reliable water supply in a financially responsible manner, while promoting water-use efficiency.
The Challenge is a competition between cities locally and across the country to see which city can be the most “waterwise.” The friendly competition provides residents throughout the United States the opportunity to participate in a series of informative and easy-to-use online pledges to use water more efficiently, reduce pollution, and save energy. In the wake of the current pandemic, the campaign provides residents with more opportunities to get involved safely from home, including making water-friendly lifestyle changes on behalf of their city, undertaking home-based environmental projects that add up to cleaner, safer communities, and sharing tips and strategies with friends and neighbors.
Last year, residents across all 50 U.S. states pledged to reduce their annual consumption of freshwater by 3 billion gallons, reduce waste sent to landfills by 80 million pounds, and prevent more than 179,000 pounds of hazardous waste from entering our watersheds.
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Last year was the 10th Anniversary of the Laguna Beach County Water District’s Smartscape Expo
To participate, residents go to www.mywaterpledge.com, and then make a series of online pledges to conserve water on behalf of Laguna Beach. Cities compete in the following population categories: 5,000- 29,999 residents, 30,000-99,999 residents, 100,000-299,999 residents, 300,000-599,999 residents, and 600,000+ residents. Cities with the highest percentage of residents who take the challenge in their population category have a chance to win $3,000 toward their Home Utility Bills, and hundreds more eco-friendly prizes including Toro Irrigation Smart Controllers, and ECOS home cleaning products. In addition, residents can nominate a deserving charity from their city to receive a 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Students and teachers are encouraged to take part, as well.
The Challenge is presented by the Wyland Foundation and Toyota, with support from the U.S EPA WaterSense, The Toro Company, National League of Cities, Conserva Irrigation, EcoSystems Inc., and Earth Friendly Products (makers of ECOS).
The Wyland Foundation was founded in 1993 by environmental artist Wyland (best known for his series of 100 monumental marine life murals), and is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, and preserving the world’s ocean, waterways, and marine life. The foundation encourages environmental awareness through community events, education programs, and public art projects.
For more information, go to www.wylandfoundation.org.
To take the pledge to conserve water and help Laguna Beach win the title of the “Nation’s Most Waterwise City,” go to www.mywaterpledge.com.
COVID-19: 1,051 new cases reported in OC today, 10 new deaths
The OC Health Care Agency reports that there have been 147 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Laguna Beach to date, an increase of three cases today, a per capita rate of 6.293 cases per thousand residents. The county reports that there have been 41,578 cumulative cases countywide to date, an increase of 1,051 cases today. Sadly, the county reports that 734 people have died due to COVID-19 in OC, including 10 new deaths received today. There have been “less than five deaths” of Laguna Beach residents to date.
However, a glitch in the California Department of Public Health’s data system has contributed to a number of “missing” case results, some of which have not yet been reported in state or county data.
According to Dr. Clayton Chau, Acting Orange County Health Officer, the data glitch involved some 300,000 tests statewide, whose results – positive or negative – were not initially released.
The data glitch has been fixed, according to the state’s website, however not all data has been released.
“Recent issues found in the state’s electronic laboratory system that contributed to delays have been corrected. Today’s data include some cases from prior days, and we continue to work through the backlog,” the state’s website reads.
Until then, Dr. Chau said, the state has “paused” its watch list – meaning counties will not be added or removed from the list until after the glitch has been fixed and the backlogged case data released.
In regards to OC elementary schools that may be applying for a waiver to reopen in-person learning, Dr. Chau said those applications are also on hold. The county is accepting applications, but informing applicants that their applications cannot be processed until the data glitch is resolved.
“The conversation can’t start until we know what our community case rate is,” Dr. Chau said.
While daily positive cases and the testing positivity rate have been affected by the glitch, hospitalization and ICU data has not, according to Dr. Chau. The county reports that 36 percent of ICU beds and 64 percent of ventilators are currently available countywide.
Dr. Chau explained that the county also looks closely at hospital staffing levels, as having enough beds or ventilators does not necessarily mean the county will have adequate staffing.
The county reports that 441 individuals are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 (includes ICU); 141 are in ICU.
The county estimates 31,445 “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 August 11, as reported by the County; click here to visit page that is updated daily
Council to consider postponement of trolley services, recreation programs
By BARBARA DIAMOND
The City Council is being advised by staff to continue suspension of trolley service and recreation department programs through the end of the year.
Trolleys, recreational programs, and city-sponsored events were closed down beginning in March when Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order directing all California residents to stay at home, except to perform essential services.
In May, the council directed staff to extend the suspension of the trolley service and recreation department programs through the end of summer, based on the difficulty of enforcing physical distancing, as well as decreased demand and budget considerations related to the services, according to the staff report.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Council to consider suspension of trolley service
Staff was also advised that the suspension of trolley service and recreation programs were to be reconsidered after Labor Day if the state moved beyond Stage Two of the reopening plan.
The state is currently in Stage Two, prompting staff’s recommendation for the council’s consideration at tonight’s meeting.
Staff is recommending the exploration of alternatives to the trolley’s present system, including using city-owned and maintained vehicles but staffing them with contracted drivers, dispatchers, and support personnel.
City Manager John Pietig has warned in pre-COVID-19 years that the trolley service was a drain on the city budget, and if ridership did not increase, might have to be discontinued, to the dismay of users such as working parents of students too young to drive.
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Photo by Scott Brashier
Postponement recommended for Aquatic classes at community pool
Postponement for the rest of 2020 is recommended for classes in Aquatics, Adult Education, Adult Sports, Art and Design, Dance, Enrichment Programs, Fitness Classes, Senior Programs, Tennis, and Youth Classes.
Staff has proposed working with instructors to identify classes that can be offered in a virtual online format, as well as a limited number of small group classes held outdoors that comply with the state’s recently issued guidance on youth sports.
A review of the status of planned fall and winter events will be prepared for council review at the September 22 meeting.
In the great outdoors
Photos by Mary Hurlbut
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Las Brisas has now enlarged its outside parking area for patio dining. They offer stunning ocean views and a sea-to-table menu infused with traditional Mexican flavors.
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C’est La Vie – centrally located on Pacific Coast Highway, featuring California French Cuisine – has transformed their back parking area into a patio that is steps away from Main Beach.
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Chic Nails in North Laguna has now taken their services outside into a wonderful shady oasis next to their shop. Same services, except now they are performed in the great outdoors.
City accepts appreciated donations
By BARBARA DIAMOND
The city recently received two welcome donations: one for a Marine Safety Department rescue boat and the other a gift of cash to the Laguna Beach Animal Shelter.
Laguna Beach residents Steve Chadima and Mark Porterfield donated funds for the boat, a trailer, and accessories.
Rescue watercraft are an invaluable life-saving tool for open water rescues and are used regularly by the city’s Marine Safety staff in the performance of their duties, near and off shore and in significant rescue operations, according to Marine Safety Chief Kevin Snow
Porterfield also donated $30,000 in 2011 to the City’s 9/11 Memorial Semper Memento created by Jorg Dubin.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
George D. Pomeroy bequeathed five percent of his estate to the Animal Shelter
The late George D. Pomeroy bequeathed five percent of his estate to the animal shelter, from which he had adopted a dog.
A partial disbursement of $50,000 was recently made while the estate is being settled. Additional funds of an unknown amount will be disbursed in the next four to six month as the remainder of the estate is settled, according to retiring Police Chief Laura Farinella.
Mr. Pomeroy designated his donation, “be used at the discretion of the Laguna Beach Animal Shelter.”
A bronze plaque in his honor will be bought and displayed on the donor wall at the shelter.
Letters of appreciation were signed by Mayor Bob Whalen and sent to the donors.
Waiting for Climate Change by Isaac Cordal now on display outside City Hall
Photos by Mary Hurlbut
The works of urban artist Isaac Cordal, which comprise Laguna’s latest temporary art installation, are now in place outside City Hall. Titled Waiting for Climate Change, the ten miniature sculptures – including a man in a rubber ducky swim ring, a man in a pink bathrobe, and a man in a face mask – look towards the horizon suspended, unable to react but equipped with what they believe they will need for survival.
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Works of artist Isaac Cordal have a powerful connection to the moment
These works have been a passion for Spanish artist Cordal, who has installed his sculptures around the world. Cordal said in an email, “Waiting for Climate Change is an installation that reflects on our inability to act on the problem of climate crisis. The idea revolves around finding a place to feel safe, a place high up from which to observe the horizon.
“Different seas, same horizon, a present that we inhabit practically isolated from nature. And part of our future problems lie in this denaturalization. The project has a powerful connection with the moment in which we live with the pandemic that affects us, with the consequent social distancing, each one on his own pedestal, that isolation as a way of being safe.”
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Social distancing, each one on their own pedestal – isolation as a way of being safe
Adam Schwerner, Arts Commission Chair, said, “As we continue to expand our temporary public art program and engage in a dialogue with international artists, we feel we are taking further strides in expanding the shared experience with the community. The conversations the works create may not always be easy but are thoughtful and authentic.”
Arts Commissioner Donna Ballard added, “The Arts Commission is excited to present this work by Isaac Cordal, adding variety of the public art experience in Laguna. In the coming weeks you will be seeing additional temporary art installations by local and international artists throughout town funded through the Fostering Creativity grant and by the Laguna Beach Tourism Marketing District.
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A place high up from which to observe the horizon
This project has been presented in different places, in different years, at the Beaufort Triennial in Belgium in 2012, and most recently on the Norwegian coast for Hå Gamle Prestegard.
Waiting for Climate Change will be on display through October 2020. A virtual dedication will be held on Friday, August 21 at 10 a.m. that will include a discussion with the artist. Information will be distributed closer to the date.
For more information, contact Cultural Arts Manager Sian Poeschl at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
For more photos by Mary Hurlbut, see the slideshow below
LBHS students host food drive for Laguna Food Pantry this week
Laguna Beach High School Destination Imagination Global Finals team “Is This Real?” is holding a food drive for the Laguna Food Pantry this Wednesday, Aug 12 through Tuesday, Aug 18.
Destination Imagination (DI) is a global educational nonprofit dedicated to inspiring the next generation of innovators, leaders, and creative problem solvers.
Prior to COVID-19, the Laguna Food Pantry helped 500+ families a week in South Orange County; since COVID-19 hit, the nonprofit is currently helping almost 1,000 families a week. The Pantry collects and distributes 5,000 lbs. of food every weekday. Approximately half of its shoppers have babies and children to feed. The Pantry needs the community’s help.
The most requested items are: canned foods (beans, tuna, salmon, chicken), mac n’ cheese, pasta and pasta sauce, peanut butter, rice, dried beans, and cereal. Any nonperishable item is appreciated.
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LBHS Destination Imagination Global Finals team “Is This Real” members: Chris, Jeff, and Kyle Herkins
If you would like to donate, please bring your donations to either:
--Laguna Beach High School, 625 Park Ave (donation box outside front office) – Wednesday, Aug 12 - Friday, Aug 14 from 9 a.m. 6 p.m.
--Laguna Beach Food Pantry, 20652 Laguna Canyon Rd – weekdays, Wednesday, Aug 12 - Tuesday, Aug 18 from 8 to 10:30 a.m.
Limited pickup: If you have a donation of two or more bags of food and would like your donation to be picked up, the team can do so on Friday, Aug 14. Just send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the number of bags, your address, and phone number. For everyone’s safety, pickups will be contactless, and donations can be left outside.
Money donations: If you would prefer to donate money to this great organization that helps so many people, donate directly by sending a check or money order to Laguna Food Pantry, 20652 Laguna Canyon Rd, Unit B, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, Attention: Treasurer. Any donation is appreciated.
Laguna Food Pantry is open Monday through Friday from 8 to 10:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.lagunafoodpantry.org.
Longtime resident and business owner Ruben Flores announces candidacy for City Council
Twenty-four-year Laguna Beach resident and business owner Ruben Flores has announced his candidacy for Laguna Beach City Council.
A “tireless advocate for Laguna Beach’s local arts and civic organizations, Laguna’s natural resources, and improving the quality of life for its residents and vitality of its businesses,” Flores’ love for Laguna has been demonstrated through countless donated hours, utilizing his professional expertise “to improve the resources that comprise 80 percent of the city’s landmass – our trees, canyon, parks, beaches, and green spaces,” he says.
A regular speaker at City Council meetings, Flores’ efforts have contributed to the creation of Laguna’s first Arbor Day Celebration, as well as Laguna’s designation as a Tree City USA. As President of the Beautification Council, he collaborated with the Laguna Beach Garden Club and the city to create the Sister Cities Garden in Heisler Park. Flores is Chair of the Laguna Beach View Restoration Committee, former President of Laguna Beach Beautification Council, has served on the Board of Pacific Marine Mammal Center, and was instrumental in the planning of the recently completed Laguna Beach Village Entrance.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Ruben Flores will run for City Council
Flores is actively involved in many national, state, and local organizations, and is known for promoting Laguna artists and their work. He has chaired or served on numerous committees creating one-of-a-kind fundraising events for groups including the Laguna Art Museum, Laguna College of Art + Design (LCAD), Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC), South Laguna Civic Association, Glennwood House, Laguna Outreach for Community Arts (LOCA), Laguna Plein Air Painters Association (LPAPA), Laguna Sister Cities Association, Laguna Beach Garden Club, Blue Bell Foundation for Cats, and was a founding member of the South Laguna Beach Community Garden Park and the HIP District.
According to Flores, he is promoting “a comprehensive, integrated approach to improving the ambience and vitality of local businesses and business districts – fostering contextual design and ensuring individual projects and developments address the cumulative effect on neighborhoods or areas of town to strengthen the urban mosaic.”
Flores states, “When properties or parcels are combined, zoning reduction adjustments should be made to avoid mansionization of residences and monolithic walls of retail built to the maximum envelope of parcels.”
“Laguna deserves fresh and creative leadership. I will use experience from 24+ years as a local business owner and resident to serve Laguna, championing improvements and policies that amplify the extraordinary character of Laguna Beach, respecting needs of residents, and promoting healthy businesses,” said Flores.
“Laguna needs equitable, reasonable, and uniform enforcement of codes and regulations, as well as a renewed sense of civility. Residents and business owners alike deserve to have a balanced, non-combative forum and venue for responsive and wise decision-making.
“As a result of, and in response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we have the opportunity and responsibility to chart a revised course for Laguna. We need to strive to do more for the city than to get back to ‘normal.’ Improving how things have gone before should be the goal.
“City leadership must make a good faith effort to accommodate meeting attendance and community involvement.”
Flores’ dreams for the future of Laguna include goals such as:
--Ensure all can express concerns freely and are given respect
--Enhance canyon, parks, beaches, parkways, and trees
--Advocate for equitable enforcement of regulations/codes
--Support and strengthen our public safety and first responders
--Focus Laguna’s marketing on attracting more visitors who spend money in Laguna
--Bolster “Laguna’s Urban Mosaic” with responsible, wise development
--Involve the world-class talents and creativity of residents in initiatives and programs
--Address remote parking/incentivize trolley use
--Promote water-wise California landscapes
--Increase permanent al fresco dining opportunities
--Ensure Laguna residents get a meaningful say in Laguna’s development
--Improve interaction and collaboration with Caltrans
--Advance quality of life for all residents
“All Laguna residents should be encouraged to have a meaningful say in the development and policies of the city, with a city council that listens and responds appropriately.”
As our 100th anniversary as a City approaches, Ruben states he “will provide positive, energetic leadership with creative vision and business acumen.”
For more information on Ruben Flores’ campaign, visit www.rubenflorescitycouncil.com.
Lifelong Laguna’s iPad Project connects isolated seniors with the community
Until recently, Laguna Beach resident Sarah Gerrard*, 70, hadn’t felt the need to own a smartphone or use a computer for anything other than the occasional email.
Despite her husband’s need for constant care – Rick, 92, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s five years ago, and the survivor of four strokes, is very much home-bound – she was able to go for short walks with friends, do her errands, and, most importantly, attend the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group at The Susi Q.
Those outings were enough to keep her grounded and cheerful despite the demands of caring for a spouse with such debilitating physical and mental challenges.
But all outings came to an end with the advent of COVID-19.
“The isolation has been hard,” Sarah says. “I’ve especially missed going to the support group. I’ve attended regularly for four years, in the past year on Wednesdays every week. It’s such a tight-knit group. We share our stories and give each other emotional support. It means everything to me.”
Happily now, thanks to an iPad provided to her by The Susi Q Senior Center, and a personal training session with John Fay, Director of Aging in Place Services, Sarah is able once again to participate in the meetings via Zoom video conferencing.
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John Fay, Director of Laguna Beach Seniors’ Aging in Place Services, teaches new iPad users
“I felt such joy in reconnecting. It was magical to see everyone’s faces!” she says. “I’m so grateful. I didn’t have the right equipment – before, when they tried to explain how to connect on Zoom, I said, what? A camera? A microphone? Where are those on my husband’s old computer? And I didn’t have the right Wi-Fi connection either. But now I have the tools, though it wasn’t easy to understand everything at first. John was so patient, teaching me how to use the iPad.”
Putting the world at the fingertips of isolated seniors
Funded by a grant from the Assistance League, Laguna Beach Seniors’ iPad Project is initially providing 14 vulnerable seniors with the means to connect with others and take part in their choice of the many clubs, activities, and support groups that The Susi Q is now offering virtually.
“Our executive director, Nadia Babayi, attends a weekly meeting with the City Manager and other key community organizations. During one of the meetings, she learned there are low-income seniors who feel disconnected to the outside world because they don’t have smart devices,” John explains. “That sparked the idea to buy and loan out iPads on a long-term basis.
“In the past months, Laguna Beach Seniors at The Susi Q has delivered groceries and helped modify homes to ensure a safe environment – but it’s the lack of opportunities for socialization that are most troubling for many. This is at least part of the solution.”
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Proudly displaying a new way to connect to programs, activities, and friends
Director of Care Management Martha Hernandez did some outreach to identify seniors who would most benefit from the program.
“Quite a few seniors do have smartphones – but it’s challenging to access Zoom classes on such a small screen, especially for those who have vision or hearing difficulties,” Martha notes.
John admits there’s sometimes a steep learning curve.
“An iPad can be intimidating to someone who has never used one before. So when I’m teaching seniors, I make sure that I put myself in their shoes, I imagine I have never seen one before. I take them through the basic steps, at their own pace, showing them how to sign on, create a password, and connect.”
Isolation and boredom are great motivators
In some cases, seniors do not even have access to Wi-Fi – or the connection isn’t fast enough to download much of anything – and that’s another aspect that Lifelong Laguna is working on.
“We don’t want the iPad to become a financial burden in any way,” John says. “So in some instances, we’re also helping to pay for a decent Wi-Fi connection.
“The good news is that seniors are very resilient, and most seem to be coping okay. There’s naturally some resistance to the technology, but isolation and boredom are great motivators to learn new ways of connecting.”
While LBS received initial funding from ALLB to purchase the first allotment of iPads, they’re hoping to hear from anyone or any company that might be interested in donating additional funds to expand the program.
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Hugging technology tight!
John notes that The Susi Q was very quick to adapt to the shelter-at-home situation. “Within just a couple of weeks, we were offering video conferencing for a number of programs. Now we have more than 30 activities, classes, and support groups online, and another 16 will be added by the end of September.”
The most popular programs include Jeffrey Briar’s musical appreciation classes, TED Talks, Men’s social group, Women Supporting Women, It’s Your Money, and exercise classes, including Standing Yoga, as well as wellness programs. Bingo will be coming soon.
“We believe offering these programs is vital to the health, happiness, and safety of our senior community in Laguna Beach,” John says. “Not to mention that we now have participants from other countries, including Australia and Canada!”
Sarah’s first experience with an iPad was memorable
Sarah reiterates how pleased she is to be part of the iPad project. She laughs when recounting her first experience with Zoom video conferencing.
“John sat with me outside the Susi Q Center in the sunlight, with masks on, to help me connect using their Wi-Fi,” she says. “I spoke for a while, then I realized they weren’t hearing me! I had been muted because the wind blowing in the umbrella was causing a whooshing sound! So then they saw I was talking and unmuted me and I could hear them and they could hear me.
“It was so exciting to see everyone and to talk to them.”
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A senior’s new favorite device
Sarah’s not sure how much she’ll be using her iPad other than to connect with her group, because she is so busy taking care of Rick. But being able to attend her Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group is very important to her. She’ll grab the time whenever she can.
“I put Rick in the electric recliner and he will snooze for a while,” she says. “It’s so much more comfortable than sitting in his wheelchair. Laguna Beach Seniors donated that chair. I am so grateful to them. Martha and John keep in touch with me, and make sure I have what I need to take care of myself, too.”
And John feels quite well, jolly about the program. “When I hand over the iPads, seniors tell me it’s like Christmas in July – and I feel like Santa Claus. It’s great!”
For more information, or if you know seniors who would benefit from the program, visit www.thesusiq.org or contact John at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (949) 715-8107.
*Not her real name, for reasons of privacy
United Methodist Church donates $5,800 to the Laguna Food Pantry
Yesterday morning, United Methodist Church delivered a check for $5,800 to the Laguna Food Pantry. Pantry Volunteer Coordinators Lesli Henderson and Cynthia Carson accepted the check from Slade Carlton, a member of the church. Along with his two daughters, Zoe and Olivia, who attend Laguna Beach High School, he has provided hundreds of volunteer hours to the community throughout the pandemic and before.
Kay Ostensen says, “Our church has collected food for the Pantry since its inception. Once a month parishioners come to church with nonperishable items. Member Wayne Wallace loads up his truck to take it to the Pantry the following day. Like other churches and synagogues in Laguna, we have met virtually since March.”
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
(L-R) Pantry Volunteer Coordinators Cynthia Carson & Lesli Henderson, and grant initiator Slade Carlton
“Members wanted to continue the donations, so the church Outreach Team began a financial drive. Participants were asked to join a ‘Fast for Food’ fundraiser, giving up a meal per day or week and donating the funds saved. After two months, over $2,800 had been collected and funds sent to the Pantry.”
Meanwhile, Bishop Hagiya of the CA-Pacific Conference of the United Methodist Church announced that he would receive applications for Justice and Compassion grants.
Church member Slade Carlton jumped in immediately to meet all the grant requirements and submit the application. The Methodist Conference was flooded with requests, but last month Laguna Pastor Lynn Francis received the following happy news.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Check presentation with volunteers and Zoe and Olivia Carlton behind their dad Slade in the blue shirt
Justice & Compassion Ministries Grant Award:
This is to inform you that the JCEMT Executive Committee has determined the Justice & Compassion Grant Award amounts for 2020. Due to the larger than usual amount of qualifying applications this year, none of the applicants are receiving the full amount of their request. However, the JCEMT is pleased to provide a Justice and Compassion Grant of $3,000.00 to Laguna Beach UMC for the Laguna Food Pantry Program. You should be receiving a check for that amount before the end of July.
Ostensen says, “Truly this fine organization [Laguna Food Pantry] ‘shows up’ on the front lines every morning! Over 500 persons are provided with food each week, and each is treated with dignity and privacy. Many families in our community have survived the pandemic due to the huge efforts of the Pantry’s board, staff, and ‘boots on ground’ volunteers, handing out bags of food each weekday morning.”
Debbie McMullen, a faithful Pantry volunteer every Monday, coordinated the photo shoot.
The Laguna Food Pantry is located at 20652 Laguna Canyon Rd.
For more information, go to www.lagunafoodpantry.org.
Children’s clothing drive exceeds goal, proceeds benefit four local nonprofits
On Sunday, Celine Macmillan, who held a children’s clothing drive in her driveway over the weekend, surpassed her goal of $1,000 and raised $1,388! She rounded it up to $1,400, so each of the four nonprofits benefiting from her drive received an equal share.
Macmillan says, “My favorite part of living in Laguna Beach for the past 35 years, is the strong community support. I’m so thankful to everyone that donated clothes, made a donation online, helped spread the word, and came to support this little fundraiser. Together we helped families save money purchasing clothes for their children, and we raised $350 for each of the four nonprofits that work tirelessly to help animals and children: Pacific Marine Mammal Center, Catmosphere Laguna, Boys and Girls Club, and (Rhino) Cause Conservation.”
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Celine Macmillan setting up Saturday morning for the sale
The goal of this fundraiser was two-fold: To help Laguna families save money purchasing clothes for their children and to support our local nonprofits.
Before the drive, Macmillan said, “I’ve worked with all four of these nonprofits over the years with various volunteer opportunities that came up with each one.”
Gail Landau, owner of Catmosphere Laguna, thanks Celine: “This generous contribution will go directly into our Veterinary Fund; those bills are never-ending. You are a wonderful HOOMAN. Your generosity of spirit and the selfless gift of your family’s time is extraordinary. We cannot thank you enough for all that good energy and your original and successful idea to support each of us.”
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Nine tables full of clothes, all donated by Laguna Beach families
Although Macmillan is currently the Vice President of Laguna Beach High School PTA, this was not a school related fundraiser.
Prior to the drive, she said, “I’m doing this as a Laguna Beach parent. I’ve spoken to Laguna Beach families who are struggling financially due to COVID-19 job losses,” said Macmillan. “I just wanted to assist in a small way by helping families save a little money purchasing clothes for their children. It’s also been difficult financially for many of the nonprofits.”
Where’s Maggi – the answers!
Quite a few people have noticed this sculpture in North Laguna. Barbara Stirrat knew that it is at the Hotel Joaquin, on N Coast Hwy. So, too, did Nancy Milby, Cathy Bosko, Mark Christy, Christina Basile, Jane Golden, Scott Downes, Anne Earhart, Pat Carpenter, Nancy Wade, and Linda Barker.
Thanks, everyone, for playing along!
Look for the next photo challenge coming up on Friday.
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Sculpture adorning the Hotel Joaquin
Chamber to host virtual State of the City Mayor’s address on September 15
The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce will host a virtual State of the City Mayor’s address presented by Cox Communications and Bomel Construction on Tuesday, Sept 15.
The presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. and may be viewed live on Cox cable channel 852 and via Zoom by following the webinar instructions here.
The State of the City Mayor’s Address will also be broadcast live on KX FM 104.7 and the Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page.
“To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and adhere to State guidelines prohibiting large gatherings, we are holding the State of the City Mayor’s address virtually this year,” said Paula Hornbuckle-Arnold, President/CEO of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce. “The safety of the community is our top priority. While we will miss seeing everyone in person, health and safety come first.”
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Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen
Chairman of the Board for the Chamber J.J. Ballesteros will open the virtual event with the State of the Chamber followed by the State of the City address by Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen. Subsequent presentations will be given by Laguna Beach City Manager John Pietig and City staff. After the formal presentations, panelists will be available to answer questions.
“The impact of COVID-19 has been dramatic and far-reaching for the City of Laguna Beach, our residents, and the business community,” said Mayor Bob Whalen. “Though I will miss the camaraderie of an in-person event, I am looking forward to an informative and honest discussion about the State of our City. There has never been a more important year for the City to listen to and have a conversation with its citizens and the community as a whole as we navigate the effects of this pandemic together.”
For the question and answer portion, submit any questions for consideration to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Questions must be submitted no later than September 7.
Tune into Cox cable channel 852 or watch the presentation via Zoom by following the instructions here. Tune in to KX FM 104.7 or go to the Chamber Facebook page to view the presentation live.
Cow wasn’t your ordinary cat, not by a long shot: celebrating a unique and funny feline
By DIANNE RUSSELL
Thais (Ty-ese) Askenasy, a Laguna Beach resident for 54 years, has been officially rescuing cats for 45 years – 1,500 of them to be exact – so she certainly knows her felines. Her kitten Cow was a very special one, and she’s the first to admit it.
Cow Cats are not a breed, but are so called because their markings are reminiscent of dairy cows. They are also called Moo Cats, Piebald, Harlequins, and even Magpie Cats.
Askenasy started rescuing cats not too long after she moved here. She graduated from Laguna Beach High School in 1976, went to Thurston before that, and attended Aliso for 4th, 5th, and 6th grade.
“I have always loved cats. We always had them growing up,” she says. “I think my first rescue was when I was around seven, when we first moved to Laguna. I vaguely remember a small black cat, that didn’t (to my knowledge) have a home. That was back in the day when cats were allowed to roam, so I took him in and he became ours.”
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“Frontward Cat” yoga position
The attributes that made three-and-a-half-year-old Cow extraordinary were many and varied. Not only did he practice yoga, he was a cat about town, a museum visitor, a restaurant patron, and a contestant (the only cat) in the Pet Parade & Chili Cook-Off.
Askenasy says, “He used to love to go into restaurants, the White House, and many local stores. Store owners and guests would crack up when he marched in to have a little look around.
“He loved to walk on a leash. Many folks may have seen him strutting down Forest Avenue or on Main Beach. He crossed Pacific Coast Highway like it was a daily affair, even with the cars, people, dogs, etc. He just marched along.”
“Dogs were literally afraid of him because he didn’t run. I had dog owners shocked by his ‘chill’ behavior.”
Askenasy rescued Cow from a shelter in Pasadena.
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Out and about
In response to the question why she kept him instead of finding him a home, she says, “His purrsonality was just off the charts. He was very smart (I swear he understood me when I talked to him) and he wasn’t afraid of dogs (hence his yoga, it keeps him calm).”
At the present time, this longtime rescuer has only one cat that needs to find a home. “He was rescued from the streets of Santa Ana where a friend of mine feeds four colonies of cats every night. This little tiger kitten allowed her to catch him. Now he is with another woman (in town) who is fostering him trying to socialize him more.”
She says, “Cow was, and still is, in my heart, one of the coolest cats I ever had the pleasure of being owned by (Cat Lady Humor). Not only was he smart, but he was so interactive with us and everyone he met. Take the Pet Parade –how many dogs were there, 100? And Cow strutted around there like he owned the place. No dogs tried to chase him.”
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Cow with the Lion in the little Art Museum on Forest
“I believe that he had this confident air about him that let the dogs know – don’t mess with me. I know most people who stopped us to ask about or just to pet Cow that day were blown away that a cat could walk around so many dogs, with just this cool grace about him. That’s my boy!”
I can attest to that, because I was there that day at the Pet Parade.
Sir Walter Scott said, “Cats are a mysterious kind of folk.”
Cow was enchanting and magical, a precocious one-of-a-kind cat, one not easily forgotten.
Dennis’ Tidbits
By DENNIS McTIGHE
August 11, 2020
Baseball banter and bright meteor showers
On Wednesday the 12th, the annual meteor shower show will be on display from around 1 or 2 a.m. to 4 or 5 a.m. predominantly in the NE sky. There are at least two or three a minute, and they are bright enough for the most part, even here in town where we don’t have a lot of bright lights. We just have to hope the marine layer doesn’t fill in before viewing time, otherwise you’ll have to go inland quite a ways to find clear skies away from the low clouds. This event happens every year like clockwork.
Well, Stu, our Los Angeles Angels are already bottom feeders after only 16 games in this shortened 2020 baseball season with a miserable 5-11 start, which is their worst 16-game opening start in franchise history dating back to 1961. In 2002 the Angels started that season with a lowly 6-14 start, their worst 20-game start in franchise history, but they ended up winning the 2002 World Series, beating Barry bonds and the San Francisco Giants in seven games. That just ain’t gonna happen this time around.
They’re already six games behind the first-place Oakland Athletics, so once again our team is already irrelevant, and once again, no postseason. Wouldn’t it be nice if baseball’s best player, Mike Trout, played for a winner like the Dodgers, Yankees, Nationals, A’s, or Astros? Too bad his enormous talents are wasted on a perennial loser. Even with the newly acquired National League MVP Anthony Rendon on the squad, the Angels just can’t seem to click, so it’s yet another campaign of life in the cellar.
Meanwhile, up the 5 Freeway, the Dodgers are already in their perennial comfort zone in first place with a sparkling 11-5 record. They have so many weapons, even stronger with the acquisition of Mookie Betts. The Dodgers aren’t even firing on all cylinders yet and their lineup is still so deep, there’s a new game winner every day. They should have the division in the bag by mid-season. Just one thing: don’t give the ball to Clayton Kershaw in the postseason!
Local surface ocean temps continue to be on a wild roller coaster ride this summer with significant fluctuations from week to week. At this time ocean temps have rebounded once again at 68-72 degrees in most areas, a far cry from last week’s burly 59-63 degree readings. Talk about radical; it’s been as cold as 57 degrees in San Clemente and as warm as 76 degrees there.
We’ll get a nice SSE wind for three days, sending water temps way up, only to have the next three days with strong WNW breezes sending temps plummeting back downward. Makes you wish it was 1997 again when a record 221 consecutive days had water temps at 70 or higher. With La Nina running the show, we probably won’t see too many 70-degree water temps for the remainder of the summer.
Well, the Eastern Pacific Tropics after a month of dormancy have popped out tropical storm Elida, and she’s expected to become a hurricane shortly as she enters our swell window, but she, too, is expected to move to the west so no go. Here on Sunday evening she’s located about 475 miles south of Baja’s tip. Stay tuned on that one.
See y’all on Friday, ALOHA!
Bird bath
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Restless sea showers the birds
Planning commissioners reviewed concept for renovation of South Coast Cinemas
By BARBARA DIAMOND
The Planning Commission gave an enthusiastic thumbs up on August 5 to the concept proposed by electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian for the reuse and renovation of South Coast Cinemas.
Rivian introduced its concept as the transformation of the historic theater into a community-focused hub that will include retail space, food, and beverage service, a restored theater with seating reduced from the current 674 seats to 130 seats for public programming, and space to display two Rivian vehicles.
The exterior restoration is expected to be compatible with the historic façade. Interior modifications will reflect proposed uses.
Rivian’s concept was presented to the commission by Denise Cherry, company director of facilities, speaking from the headquarters in Plymouth, Mich. Rivian also has a facility in Irvine and one in San Jose.
“The concept is really great,” said Commissioner Jorg Dubin. “I am encouraged about the redevelopment of the theater as more than a movie theater.”
South Coast Cinemas opened in 1935 with the movie Ginger, starring Jane Withers, the obnoxious brat that terrorized sweet Shirley Temple in the 1934 film Bright Eyes. It was the first concrete and steel building constructed in Laguna Beach, according to city records.
“A lot of old buildings are structurally challenged,” said Commission Chair Susan McLintock Whitin. “This one is notorious for flooding.”
She advised Rivian to give the structure more than a superficial look before getting too far along in the project.
Commissioner Ken Sadler said the building might be in better shape than those constructed with wood.
The electric adventure vehicle maker’s proposed project is part of a larger retail strategy of acquiring existing buildings and adapting their reuse, according to a press release issued prior to the concept review.
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Rivian’s rendering for the renovation of South Coast Cinemas
In its long history, the theater has never changed its use, staff reported.
“I just thought it would be great to restore it to the original theater,” said Sadler. “It was an unrealistic expectation.”
Boutique movie theaters have been preserved, but they struggle financially, he said.
“This concept is an alternative,” Sadler said. “But the devil’s in the details. We will have to see how this works out.”
A change of use in the Downtown Specific Plan Area such as proposed by Rivian requires a conditional use permit and staff opined that the proposed uses constitute a change.
The specific site uses proposed by Rivian:
--Product and electric education space
--Live events and screenings
An estimated 48 live events a year, including movie screenings, speakers, and Rivian Community activations
--Retail and Café
Sales displays not specified
--Art Showings
Site to be open several times a year for the First Thursday Art Walk and space is to be provided for local artists to display works
(The Edgar Paine murals in the theater are to be restored.)
--Education and classes
Local schools will be invited once a month to make presentations and small workshops will be offered.
--Theater apartment
Rivian is considering using the second story apartment for visiting speakers, Rivian stakeholders, and customers.
--Parking
Demand is reduced from 235 spaces to 74 spaces due to the reduction in theater seating
“We think of it as an historic restoration,” said Cherry.
The company is working with historic architect Robert Chattel, who is also working with Hotel Laguna, Cherry said. Chattel is the historic consultant involved in the hotel’s original assessment, but with COVID-19, no action has been taken since March, said Karyn Philippsen, community development liaison for the project.
Although the purchase of the property had not been consummated as of the meeting Cherry said, she expressed the hope that a completed application for entitlements would be submitted to the city before the end of the year.
Subject to city approvals, the project is slated to open in 2021, Cherry said.
Council to honor Police Chief Farinella at today’s meeting
By BARBARA DIAMOND
The City Council will honor Police Chief Laura Farinella, who has served the city since 2015, at today’s council meeting.
Farinella is the first female police chief in the 93-year history of the department. She is credited with instituting data-driven policing and focusing department attention on locations with higher than average criminal activity. She pioneered the Main Beach pop-up, which gave the department more visibility and the opportunity for swift response to situations before they could escalate.
Under her leadership, crime was reduced to levels never before recorded, according to the proclamation to be presented today.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Police Chief Farinella will be honored at today’s City Council meeting
Farinella also started new partnerships with the community through the Business Liaison Team, Coffee with a Cop, which gave residents an opportunity to get to know those who protect and serve them, and the Dog Walker and Realtor Watches that added eyes to the staff she led and expanded.
The Community Outreach Team expansion under her guidance included clinicians and partnerships with the Orange County Health Care Agency.
Today’s proclamation recognizes Farinella’s leadership during the 2017 protests, which attracted thousands of people to Main Beach and concluded without violence.
Farinella will be recognized for the positive impacts she has made before she retires after five years with the city and 25 years previously with the Long Beach Police Department.
Clap for key workers
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Continue to applaud our key workers
Expert shares tips on tackling back-to-school anxiety in these unprecedented times
By DIANNE RUSSELL
It’s almost back-to-school time, and no one will deny it’s highly unsettling for students around the country, whether school districts are continuing with virtual classrooms, instituting socially distanced in-class study, or a combination of both.
Certainly, each of these scenarios presents its own set of challenges, and students may manifest symptoms of anxiety. Even the debate about going back to socially distanced school versus virtual learning is angst inducing for parents, teachers, and students alike.
In addition, with the latest news announcing that sports will be postponed until December, there is more ambiguity about what the school year will look like.
On August 24, Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) students will be returning to online classes. Middle and high school students will adapt to a new trimester format, which, according to Superintendent Jason Viloria, will allow a smoother transition to socially distanced in-class study if the state ban on reopening Orange County schools is lifted before the end of the first trimester.
Anxiety takes on a wide variety of behaviors
Christy Cornwall, director of Community Health Investment, Orange County Region, offers advice to help students – no matter what age – deal with the issues of going back to school in these trying times.
Community Health Investment is part of Providence Health System (of which Mission Hospital is a part of), which is dedicated to creating health care access for everyone, improving the health of communities across seven states, and addressing their most pressing needs.
All will agree back-to-school distress is an urgent concern.
Cornwall says, “Anxiety can take a wide variety of behaviors: isolation, anger, sadness, restlessness, or lack of motivation. All are evidence of being anxious.”
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Christy Cornwall, Mission Hospital Director of Community Health Investment, OC Region
Parents are dealing with the stress of either working at home – or not working at all – while their children are handling prolonged isolation with no friends, no social activities, and the anticipation of virtual learning as the new school year begins.
As a result, the calls to the emergency helpline have increased 1,000 percent since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Cornwall says, “It’s important to reach out and take moments out of the day to communicate and connect with each other and deal with the uncertainties.”
But how much should kids be protected from the stress their parents are experiencing?
“Children pick up clues. They are very perceptive,” says Cornwall. “It’s okay for parents to have conversations with them about how to handle the stress, using positive coping skills such as journaling, exercise, and other outdoor activities. It’s important to help children understand their feelings, but they have to develop their own coping skills and mechanisms to – ease their minds.”
In this time of uncertainty, Cornwall says, “It’s so valuable to communicate with others. With the virtual classroom, kids have had a hard time with learning. Everyone has to have a lot of patience as a family unit dealing with the changes.”
In the event students return to the classroom (with restrictions) and express uneasiness, she says, “Talk about the specifics, what he or she is anxious about or afraid of. It helps them understand what they can do that’s in their control such as handwashing and wearing masks.”
The importance of grandparents
According to Cornwall, grandparents can play a significant role in their grandchildren’s lives, especially in the current circumstances. “Since grandparents have longer life spans, they can explain to their grandchildren how they’ve gotten through different periods of life (whether it be epidemics or other experiences) and developed positive coping skills. It’s a great way for kids to learn you can come out the other side.
“We want them to understand that all feelings are completely valid. Grandparents have a valuable place in a child’s development, and a grandchild may be more open to talk about different feelings with a grandparent.”
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
It’s back to school – virtually – for students on August 24, with a new trimester calendar in place for middle and high school students
Children are experiencing grief and sadness at missing out on major milestones in their lives. The pandemic has unquestionably changed the way we live and for many it has changed how we celebrate.
“Those of us who were looking forward to celebrating a wedding, graduation, birthday of a loved one, or even a new birth have been forced to adjust and find different ways to try to celebrate these special moments,” says Cornwall. “People often get stuck. Help can come in the form of a subtle thing such as asking, ‘How are you doing today?’ Having a conversation gives them the space to show and listen. It’s complicated for everyone. Everyone has a different level of grief and loss of big life events. Allow people to tell you what’s on their minds.”
Mental health care experts admit, “There has never been a more important time to break the stigma associated with talking about mental health issues than now in light of COVID-19, and encourage people to ‘Promise To Talk’ about mental health. Behavioral research shows that when we make a promise to do something, we are more likely to follow through. In the same way, talking about mental health reduces the stigma associated with mental health topics, especially in the communities where stigma exists culturally.”
Because it is a time of uncertainty, we must connect and realize the importance of mental health. What’s happening now with the pandemic has never happened before. Take steps to talk about it. Communication is key.
There are resources out there to help, go to www.promisetotalk.org for children’s activities and resources for adults.
Text Promise to 474747 to schedule your own virtual conversation with an expert regarding mental health.
The Rooftop Lounge partners with Gelato Festival through Friday
The Rooftop Lounge – a Laguna Beach locals’ favorite, which recently underwent a renovation and rebrand to invoke the building’s roots in Hollywood’s golden age – has partnered with the Los Angeles-based artisanal gelateria Gelato Festival for a pop-up gelato event through the end of this week (Friday, Aug 14).
Gelato Festival, which hosts the most prestigious individual gelato tournament in the world, offers some of “the world’s best” icy desserts, crafted using the finest quality, organic, and fair-trade certified ingredients.
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The Gelato Festival cart will be parked outside La Casa Del Camino through Friday
Visitors of this collaborative pop-up will find a festive Rooftop Lounge x Gelato Festival cart parked outside La Casa Del Camino, serving up a selection of Gelato Festival’s signature treats each day this week, August 10 - August 14, from 1 to 5 p.m. The event’s menu includes:
--Popsicles – $6 (Sicilian Blood Orange, Mandarin Mint, and Espresso)
--Gelato Cones – $8 (fresh gelato coated in Dark, Ruby, or White Chocolate)
--Gelato Cookie Sandwiches – $8 (freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, filled with gelato, dipped in chocolate, and topped with sprinkles)
Following the launch event, the pop-up’s selection will be permanently added to The Rooftop Lounge’s newly reimagined menu crafted by chef Christophe Bonnegrace as part of the restaurant’s recent transformation.
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Guests can enjoy their treats outdoors
Gelato Festival’s popsicles, gelato cones, and gelato sandwiches will join a lineup of decadent desserts such as The Rooftop Lounge’s Mango Coconut Tres Leches (Mango and Coconut infused Sponge Cake topped with Fresh Mango Puree) and Cheesecake with Mixed Berries Salsa (Classic NY Style Cheesecake topped with House-Made Fresh Berries Salsa). Other coastal-inspired appetizers, salads, and entrees from the newly revamped menu include Crab Cake with Lemon Pepper Aioli, whole Beach Branzino, Outskirt Beef Steak, as well as an elevated take on the hamburger which is topped with roasted tomato, lettuce, bacon, avocado, pepper Jack cheese, and Del Camino sauce, served on a brioche bun with a side of sweet potato fries and spicy maple syrup.
The Rooftop Lounge is open 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with lunch and dinner served daily and brunch served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Reservations are available through the restaurant’s website at www.rooftoplagunabeach.com. Additionally, The Rooftop Lounge has implemented safety and sanitization procedures in accordance with all city, county, and state guidelines.
Local launches Beachably with custom tables that make beachgoing a breeze
By DIANNE RUSSELL
No need to ever again attempt to balance your drink on a beach blanket – and best of all, there will no longer be sand in your snacks. Designed with beach lovers in mind, Beachably tables allow beachgoers to comfortably and stylishly enjoy refreshments without all the awkward logistics. The tables are also ideal for camping and picnics at the park.
When Laguna resident Tanya Spence-Spangler, president and founder of Beachably, was gifted with a table her brother made, it turned out to be the perfect solution to this balancing act. After receiving endless favorable comments on the table and answering questions about where she got it, on June 10, Spence-Spangler founded Beachably.
So far, she reports that the response has been great. “People are enthusiastic about them. One thing I especially like about Laguna is that locals support locals.”
After traveling the world for the perfect home, Spence-Spangler finally found her abode in Laguna Beach ten years ago. Inspired by the ocean’s gentle breeze, the sound of crashing waves, and nature’s ambience, Beachably was established to promote a natural, sustainable lifestyle.
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Photo by Candice Dartez Photography
Tanya Spence-Spangler with a Beachably table
“The inspiration of the table came from my brother who came to visit me and also fell in love with Emerald Bay. He handcrafted the table in Australia and brought it to me to use here in California,” says Spence-Spangler. “He thought it was just what was needed to enjoy a cocktail on the beach. I have had so many compliments and questions about it, I decided to have the tables handcrafted locally. I dislike plastic and the disposable society we are, so I love that these tables are sustainable, durable, made locally, and super easy to use.”
She explains how the name Beachably came about.
“My husband Tim and I were throwing names around, trying to decide what feel we wanted to have for the website and company. The name Beachably reflects the comfortable style of living at the beach.
“We focus on naturally-sourced materials for sustainability, handcrafted products for individuality, and our vision to remind us all to take a step back and enjoy the peacefulness of the natural world around us,” she says.
Spence-Spangler is vigilant about avoiding disposables. “I think the pandemic has been a good reset for people. They’re very conscious of what they’re buying and putting back into the earth.”
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Photo by Candice Dartez Photography
Beachably tables are great for park settings too
While it can be comfortably carried by its handle, the table’s slim profile of just under 12” wide lends itself to fitting perfectly into the average travel pack or Tommy Bahama chair. The table’s convenient size and lightweight design makes it easy to set up and use. There are also convenient holes to secure glasses and your favorite bottle of wine. The table is best used on grass or sand. Built for simplicity, the table smoothly folds and unfolds effortlessly, so you can focus less on the set up and more on relaxing.
Beachably offers three styles of tables:
--The Murray: Features three openings for two wine glasses and a wine bottle.
--The Goulburn: Features two non-slip cork pads and an opening for a wine bottle.
--The Esplanade: Features an opening for a wine bottle and a smooth surface for other items.
The tables come in two color options: Naturally Sunkissed or Beach Blonde.
They are custom crafted locally – maple is used for the legs and the top is made of marine grade plywood for durability. With the stake at the bottom, the table can be used on any soft earth such as grass, dirt, or sand.
Beachably also offers custom engraving, which is perfect for gifts.
According to Spence-Spangler, most of the orders are custom engraved (which they do in the right hand corner of the table). A personalized engraving makes it feels special, she says. “Customers usually order them with a house number, a name, and one customer ordered two hearts.”
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Photo by Candice Dartez Photography
Special wrapping to enhance the unique quality of the table
Although Spence-Spangler is now a decade-long resident of Laguna, she took a long journey to finally get here.
She grew up in Australia and left at 22 years old to travel the world. The typical Australian “walkabout.”
“I started in the States, driving through 40 States and ended up in Crested Butte, Colorado for the ski season. Then on my second year of traveling I was in Europe. I met my husband, Tim, in Istanbul Turkey. We settled in New York City, where he had just started working as a lawyer. After we were married, we moved to England, so I could do a Master’s Degree at Oxford University, and we ended up calling London home for the next 14 years.
“Tim was a native Californian, so we would come back to visit often. However, it wasn’t until after many visits to Cali, that he took me to lunch in a little beach town, Laguna Beach. I instantly fell in love with Laguna. It took us three years, but we finally moved; that was 10 years ago. I love the community here and for all the places I have lived, this is where I will call home forever!”
As for the longevity of Beachably tables, after five years of use, the table Tanya’s brother made for her is still going strong.
During the month of August, as an extra bonus for Stu News readers, Spence-Spangler is offering 20 percent off tables with the code: STUNEWS20. The code is valid until August 31, 2020.
Readers can follow Beachably on Instagram @beach_ably to stay updated on their news and offers.
For more information on Beachably, go to www.beachably.com.
FOA presents selections from the FOA Permanent Art Collection at The Ritz-Carlton
The Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach is thrilled to present its latest off-site exhibit, Selections from the Festival of Arts Permanent Art Collection, open now through September 16. Located within the exquisite Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, this exhibit showcases a variety of artworks from the Festival’s Permanent Art Collection.
“Though this year’s Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters 2020 season has been canceled, we are grateful to be able to continue our annual partnership with our friends at The Ritz-Carlton in Laguna Niguel to honor and celebrate the arts,” said Sharbie Higuchi, Director of Marketing/PR at Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach.
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Ken Auster (1949-2016), “Laguna,” 1996, oil/canvas – on display at “Selections from the Festival of Arts Permanent Art Collection” at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel
The exhibit showcases both classical and contemporary works in a variety of mediums such as painting, photography, ceramics, watercolor, and printmaking. Among the many pieces on display are Edgar Payne’s painting Payne Lake, Stillman Sawyer’s photograph Sculptured Sand, Ken Auster’s painting Laguna, Julita Jone’s print Rhinoceros Unicornis, and Tom Lamb’s photograph The Gates-Christo, NYC.
The Festival’s collection is made up of over 1,150 pieces and is composed of an eclectic mix of two-dimensional and three-dimensional work that date back to the early 1900s. The Festival of Arts Permanent Collection expands annually through purchases and donations and includes paintings, sculptures, ceramics, printmaking, glass, photography, mixed media, furniture, and jewelry.
All of the artwork selected for the Festival’s Permanent Art Collection reflect the uniqueness and diversity that is synonymous with the Festival of Arts and the region surrounding it.
“Since 1932, the Festival of Arts has been a major influence in preserving the history of this region by supporting artists and the arts community,” states Higuchi. “This exhibit invites the viewer to take a visual stroll through history as well as explore a variety of artistic styles.”
The Selections from the Festival of Arts Permanent Art Collection exhibit is located at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel at One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, CA, 92629. Guests are encouraged to check the resort’s most current regulations and guidelines for face covering, social distancing, and additional modified service offerings until further notice. The exhibit is free to the public and is open daily through September 16.
For more information, visit www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/california/laguna-niguel.
To explore foaVIRTUAL and support the artists of the Fine Arts Show, visit www.foapom.com/foavirtual/.
Stay up to date on all things Pageant of the Masters and Fine Arts Show visit www.foapom.com or follow @FestivalPageant on social media. To support the Festival of Arts, visit www.foapom.com/supportnow.
Fourth Annual Art Along the Coast Fine Artists Exhibit announced in South OC
Art Along the Coast will be offering a free, self-guided tour of art studios and exhibition venues from San Clemente to Santa Ana over the last two weekends in August. Art lovers can journey along the coast at their own pace to visit 34 Orange County fine artists in 14 locations.
Now in its fourth year, Art Along the Coast presents local artists who would otherwise be exhibiting at the prestigious Laguna Beach Festival of Arts. Due to the COVID pandemic, the festival has been closed for the first time since World War II. However, in the spirit and style of Laguna artists of the early 1930s, visitors will again be invited into artists’ personal and creative spaces.
Orange County continues to be a destination for art and culture. As such, the tour showcases varied and unique work by painters, photographers, ceramicists, jewelers, sculptors, and those of other art mediums in their working environments. It is an opportunity for people looking for a meaningful and safe activity who also want to support local professionals.
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Artwork by Fabrice Spies, “Pretty in Pink,” Acrylics
“For many of us as artists, the quarantine has been a very productive period. Given the cancellation of most of the art shows and festivals this year, we are thrilled to share our artistry and a more intimate view into our working lives as professional artists,” said magic realism painter Paul Bond.
“The Art Along the Coast tour gives people an experience they don’t ordinarily get – the opportunity to engage with how ideas, creativity and technique come together to birth a piece of fine art,” Bond added.
The tour runs Saturday and Sunday, Aug 22-23 and 29-30. For information on participating artists, times, tour details, and a map, visit www.artalongthecoast.org.
*All the artists are mindful of health concerns and will be following established guidelines with masks and social distancing.
2020 Participating Artists:
Marlo Bartels, Sculpture/Mosaic – www.marlobartels.com
Paul Bond, Oils – www.paulbondart.com
Lillian Blouin, Oils – www.lillianannablouin.com
Luciano Bortone, Jewelry – www.bortonedesigns.com
Ray Brown, Pencil/Charcoal – www.raybrownart.com
Sean Hunter Brown, Photography – www.seanhunterbrown.com
Bruce Burr, Mixed Media – www.bruceburrartist.com
Antje Campbell, Sculpture – www.antjecampbell.com
Sheri Cohen, Jewelry – www.indigolights.com
Gilbert Dillinger, Acrylics – www.gildellinger.com
Sherry Salito-Forsen, Glass – www.glassicsart.com
Hugh Foster, Photography – www.hughfosterphoto.com
Brian Giberson, Mixed Media – www.indigolights.com
Rick Graves, Photography – www.rickgraves.com
JP Greenwood, Photography – www.jpgreenwood.com
Lance Heck, Jewelry – www.lanceheck.com
Lyn Hiner, Acrylics – www.lynhiner.com
Sharon Jackman, Ceramics – www.shajaceramics.com
Tom Lamb, Photography – www.lambstudio.com
Peter Levshin, Photography – www.levoimagery.com
Carolyn Machado, Mixed Media – www.machadoart.net
Anne Moore, Printmaking – www.annesprints.com
Mia Moore, Mixed Media – www.miamooreart.com
Casey Parlette, Sculpture – www.caseyparlette.com
Pilar Cristi-Peters, Photography – www.pilarcristiphotography.com
Mitch Ridder, Photography – www.mitchridderphotography.com
Fabrice Spies, Acrylics – www.fabricespies.com
Fred Stodder, Ceramics – www.fredstodder.com
Tom Swimm, Oils – www.tomswimmfineart.com
Vinita Voogd, Printmaking – www.vinitavoogd.com
Michael Ward, Acrylics – www.tmichaelward.weebly.com
Patrick James Whelan, Oils – www.whelanartgalleries.com
Wendy Wirth, Acrylics – www.wendywirth.com
For additional information, full 2020 artist lineup, times, and location of each studio, visit www.artalongthecoast.org.
Salute to summer
Click on photo for a larger image
Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Fuchsia flower celebrates the season
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
Saturday, Aug 8
Canyon Acres Drive | 300 Block | Animal Calls
4:38 p.m. LBPD received a report in reference to a large diamondback rattlesnake in a trash can. The caller said it was “contained for now” but was “large enough to try to escape.”
Viejo St | 200 Block | Violating Parole
2:21 a.m. Donell DeShaun Allen, 38, was arrested for violating parole. No bail was set.
Broadway St | 300 Block | Warrant
12:25 a.m. A 46-year-old man was arrested on a warrant for petty theft. Bail was set at $2,500.
Friday, Aug 7
Rim Rock Canyon Road | 2000 Block | Animal Calls
7:04 p.m. LBPD received a report in reference to a domestic chicken found on Rim Rock Canyon Road.
Thursday, Aug 6
S Coast Hwy | 1800 Block | Warrant, Possession of Controlled Substance Paraphernalia, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Narcotic Controlled Substance, Providing False Identification to Specific Peace Officers
3:37 p.m. Lacey Alan Bowens, 39, was arrested on a warrant for grand theft, possession of controlled substance paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a narcotic controlled substance, and providing false identification to specific peace officers. No bail was set.
S Coast Hwy | 1800 Block | Providing False Identification to Specific Peace Officers, Possession of Controlled Substance Paraphernalia, Possession of a Narcotic Controlled Substance
3:33 p.m. A 40-year-old man was arrested for providing false identification to specific peace officers, possession of controlled substance paraphernalia, and possession of a narcotic controlled substance. Bail was set at $500.
Wednesday, Aug 5
S Coast Hwy | 100 Block | Trespassing: Occupying Property without Consent
12:19 p.m. Justin Sparks, 32, was arrested for trespassing: occupying property without consent. No bail was set.
Forest Ave | 500 Block | Grand Theft
12:01 p.m. LBPD received a report in reference to a grand theft.
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.
