2020 Council Retreat:

Council reviews key accomplishments, discusses finished and pending projects, and gets a peek at 2020 agendas

By BARBARA DIAMOND

Four items were added by the City Council to the staff’s to-do list of key projects on the agenda for 2020 at the council’s annual retreat, held Saturday at the South Coast Water District headquarters on West Street.

The council’s additions included reconciliation of the differences between the interpretations of the city and the California Coastal Commission of Laguna’s Local Coastal Plan; Downtown Action Plan and projects; a study of parking structure options; and the possible acquisition of the library building. They will be tacked onto the matrix of more than 80 key projects, divided up as done or doing in green, expected to be done in yellow, and don’t hold your breath in red. Mayor Bob Whalen questioned why completed projects were still in the matrix.

“I wanted to show you what has been done,” said City Manager John Pietig. “The matrix will be reset after the retreat.”

Topics discussed included housing needs to meet state requirements; a property maintenance ordinance to deal with shabby facades in business zones; major funding for projects such as the fire stations, particularly Station 4; a parking structure option; and possible new city government facilities.

“We are talking about long-term projects,” said Mayor Bob Whalen, a public finance attorney. “Laguna Beach is one of the few communities that doesn’t fund projects with bonds.

“We have revenue streams and we should look at leveraging that. We are looking at scheduling projects 10 or 15 years out. We have the capacity to find resources on a very conservative basis.”

 To Whalen’s dismay, Laguna voters rejected in the 2018 election a proposal to fund undergrounding in Laguna Canyon with bond revenue.

“If we can build parking and then use parking fees to pay off the loan, that sounds good to me,” said Councilman Peter Blake.

Blake also weighed in on the state’s push for more housing in Laguna, some of it affordable. He doesn’t think housing built downtown as recommended in the draft Downtown Specific Plan will be affordable. 

“It’s gonna go in the canyon,” said Blake, a position opposed by many canyon residents. “The state scares me. We have to stop reacting to pressure from activists in the canyon.”

Pietig and Whalen both said it is likely that at least some of the required building would have to be in the canyon.

“We have to consider the look and feel of Laguna,” said Mayor Pro Tem Steve Dicterow.

Whalen opined that some deep lots would be possible to build on without being seen from Laguna Canyon Road.

“We need to be proactive,” said Whalen.

Unlike corporate retreats, the general public is allowed to attend government agency retreats. The agenda included a public comment period on items not on the agenda, but not for comment items presented by Pietig and discussed by the council.

Only Chris Catsimanes spoke. He questioned why Dana Pont employees’ salaries are half as much as Laguna’s and the population is 10,000 higher. He also said Blake was not legally required to make public documents related to the purchase of his gallery building, but he should have made full disclosure in the beginning. Catsimanes did not say why.

Others in the audience included Mike Beanan and John Thomas from South Laguna; Arnold and Bonnie Hano, former planning Commissioner Barbara Metzger, and former City Clerk and Councilwoman Verna Rollinger, all members of Village Laguna.

Beanan complained after the meeting that there was no discussion about the ocean.

“The theme of the serious part of the meeting seemed to be: If we are going to buy the library and pay $10 million for downtown improvements, we can’t afford anything else – and if you insist, we will hire a consultant,” said Rollinger.

“I find it shocking that we are planning to hire a consultant for a parking structure study – I thought we already had a drawer full of them.”

Councilwoman Toni Iseman voiced toward the end of the retreat that people were uncomfortable at council meetings and do not attend.

“I feel their pain,” she said.

Blake, who said his holidays were ruined by a complaint to the Fair Political Practices Commission about him that later was dismissed, said, “You didn’t feel my pain.”

Iseman said each council member was responsible for civil conduct at the meetings.

“This starts with me,” said Blake. “It will stop when people stop attacking me, and I will turn it up this year. No one is afraid – they would walk over glass shards barefoot to testify at the podium.” 

Pietig interceded, saying the conversation was not productive.

Councilwoman Sue Kempf brought an end to the exchange, making a pitch for issue-oriented meetings, personal differences aside.

“We can’t control the residents, but we can control our reactions,” said Kempf.

Assistant City Manager Johnson gets a promotion – in Del Mar

The Del Mar City Council confirmed Monday that Laguna Beach Assistant City Manager Christa Johnson would be their new city manager. 

Johnson has been Assistant City Manager in Laguna for 8 1/2 years, replacing John Pietig when he succeeded Ken Frank in 2011.

“It is a great loss for Laguna Beach, but a great gain for Del Mar,” said Mayor Pro Tem Steve Dicterow.

“Christa did a fantastic job here and she will be missed.”

Johnson, who is married and has two children, said she does not plan to give up her home in Laguna.

“I very much enjoyed working with members of the business community and environmental groups and my fellow city employees,” said Johnson.

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Christa Johnson is the new City Manager of Del Mar

She moves on to Del Mar with more than 22 years of experience in government. Before coming to Laguna Beach, she held the position of Assistant City Manager in the Northern California city of Windsor. Prior to that, she served as assistant to the city manager of Alameda from 1977 to 2006; management analyst of Alameda County from 1996 to 1997; and as administrative assistant/public relations for the Yosemite National Institutes from 1995 to 1996. She earned a master’s degree in public administration from San Francisco State and a bachelor’s degree in political science from UC Santa Barbara. 

“I’m pleased that our new City Manager comes with experience facing the challenges and opportunities of a coastal community,” Del Mar Mayor Ellie Haviland said in a press release issued January 9.

Monday’s announcement culminated a five-month recruitment that included a community survey.

“I’m glad we were able to complete the search process so that we will have a smooth transition,” Council member Dave Druker said in the press release.

Johnson’s base annual salary will be $240,000 and she will get a monthly car allowance of $500 and a monthly cell phone/technology allowance of $150, according to an agreement approved Monday. She also will receive an annual contribution of $10,000 into a deferred compensation plan, an annual consumer price index adjustment of up to 3 percent, and performance bonuses of up to 4 percent.

In a 2017 League of Women Voters interview, Johnson was asked what techniques she used when negotiating for a higher salary or other benefits. She replied: “You have to let it be known that you have an interest, are competent, and are willing to do the extra work involved in taking on a new assignment. I am convinced that 99 percent of managers want to help people develop professionally, but some are just clueless and they need to be specifically asked for assignments. We are each in charge of our professional destiny and it’s incumbent on us to vocalize our interest, make suggestions, make reasonable requests for professional development opportunities, and follow up with people who provide these opportunities or that can share information that can help us grow and advance in this fantastic profession.”

Her first day at the new job is February 12. A reception to introduce Johnson to the community will take place at a later date.

Associate editor/writer Dianne Russell: What you don’t know about her might surprise you

By LYNETTE BRASFIELD

Photos by Mary Hurlbut

Dianne Russell, associate editor of Stu News Laguna for more than two years, is well known around town for her beautifully written articles on subjects ranging from predatory tarantula wasps to the miraculous recovery of a lost wedding ring. 

She’s perceived as a friendly, warm, curious person (curious about others, that is!), who wouldn’t harm a fly.

That is true: she wouldn’t harm a fly, well, except under extreme duress. 

Dianne has an incredibly soft heart when it comes to animals. To wit: though, like most people, she doesn’t like rats in her house, one day, upon coming across a helpless baby rat that her cat Anabel brought in, she could not resist feeding it with soy milk from a dropper. Sadly, it died despite her efforts.

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Dianne Russell, a many-splendored person

But listen up – before you start thinking she’s hopelessly sentimental, let me tell you something: there’s a dark side to Dianne. She loves horror movies, can’t get enough of them, and revels in cinematic blood and gore. Rosemary’s Baby is one of her favorites. 

Horror aficionado

“I watch Rosemary’s Baby probably twice a year. It came out in 1968, so that equals about 100 times. I love it because it’s set in New York at the Dakota. It’s both psychological and supernatural horror – the best kind – and I love Ruth Gordon, who played Mia Farrow and John Cassavetes’ next door neighbor,” she says. “I also like Alien, The Exorcist, The Shining, The Thing, and Silence of the Lambs, as well as more recent ones: Hereditary; It Follows.

“I’m not sure why I like them. Maybe it’s the surprise element (though not much of a surprise when I’ve seen them before) and the excitement of experiencing the unknown? I can’t think of any logical reason.”

Marathon runner

Dianne started her family at a young age. When sons Ronnie, now an animation colorist at Cartoon Network, and Brent, an avid skier who now lives in Steamboat Springs, Colo., left home, she was barely 40. She decided she needed new interests.

“One of my friends got me started running when I was 38. Then I joined a track club. We met once a week. I’ve done a bunch of five and 10Ks, 50 or more half-marathons, seven marathons, and one ultra-marathon in Bishop, Calif. I mostly competed in the 1980s, but some in the 90s.

“I’ve also done Bay to Breakers in San Francisco twice – it’s a 12K whose big draw is that it attracts nude runners, and I did see a few, though it’s not a pretty sight.

“I used to love to run the trails here, Dartmoor especially. I started having periodic back problems and stopped for a while and then just never picked it up again. I think I got it into my head that I was too old – or maybe I just got lazy. I miss it terribly. I’ve never experienced anything close to the feeling of runner’s high. I love hiking but it’s not the same.”

Dog-lover

Unsurprisingly, one of Dianne’s favorite articles for Stu News involved an interview with LBPD’s K-9, Ranger. “He wasn’t very talkative,” she admits. “But I did find out some interesting things about him. Like, his favorite sound is food going into his bowl. He hates the sound of a lawnmower, though.” 

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Dianne with family member Charley, an Australian Shepherd

Passionate about dogs, she’s often seen in Heisler Park walking her 11-year-old Australian Shepherd, Charley. She’ll stop to talk to anyone and everyone about dog-related matters, from flea repellents to the relative friendliness of different breeds.

Charley is supposed to be a herder. But when Dianne took him to a place in Orange where several sheep and a cow are kept specifically to provide enjoyment for canines of the herding kind, she learned quickly that Charley was a city dog.

“He looked at the cow and then at me. I believe he rolled his eyes. I think he thought I was insane to imagine this was something he’d enjoy,” she says.

Charley was preceded by adored Golden Retrievers Greta and Sadie. And Anabel the cat, because Dianne loves cats too. She regularly takes care of my cat Boris when Bill and I are away for the weekend, and she’s one of the few people he’ll stick around to greet when he hears a knock at the door.

Sushi devotee

And then there’s her love of sushi, specifically Taiko in Irvine, known throughout Southern California for its authenticity. Patrons are willing to wait in line for hours just to sit at the sushi bar.

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Ron and Dianne love living in Laguna

“We started going there over 40 years ago. We used to go more, but now we only go on [son] Ronnie’s birthday. I used to sit outside on a lawn chair from around 2 in the afternoon to be sure that we got seats at Chef Suzuki’s section of the sushi bar when the restaurant opened at 5,” she says. 

“Sadly, Suzuki retired last year. Both my grandsons, Forrest and Terry, started going there when they were too young to have sushi and had to order chicken teriyaki.”

Her favorite sushi is a spicy tuna roll. She also enjoys local restaurants, with mussels and peri peri prawns at the top of her list to order.

A (very) creative writer

In her fifties, Dianne began studying for her BA at UCI, and embarked on fiction writing while at the same time holding down a full-time job with Bayer Corporation.

Since then, every other Thursday night, she and her pal Marrie Stone attend a workshop to share their writing and get and give feedback. 

Dianne is a published short story writer and is currently working on a novel with some gruesome aspects. I would expect no less. 

She retired in her sixties and unretired in her seventies to work for Stu News.

“I don’t think I’ve ever worked this hard in all my life!” she says. “But I love meeting new people and writing stories about life in Laguna.”

The happy hiker

And then there are the trails in the Coast Wilderness Park. Dianne and I try to walk at least twice a week, though work, rain, and family challenges don’t always make it possible. She’s 12 years older than I am, but she’s just as capable of hiking the hills. (Though we are known to stop frequently on the Dartmoor Trail, ostensibly to admire the view.)

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Dianne at work: is she murdering a character in her novel, or writing one of her fabulous articles for Stu News? Hard to tell; she’s inscrutable.

“I like Barbara’s Lake and Sycamore Trail – which I’ve only done a few times,” she says. “I did a full moon hike up Willow, and that was amazing.”

Coming across a rattlesnake with a mouse halfway down its throat remains one of the most astonishing things we’ve seen on the trails.

“There’s always something new,” Dianne says. “We’ve seen coyotes, lots of bunnies, ground squirrels, and red-tailed hawks, not to mention an escaped pet iguana.”

Born and bred in Orange County

Her OC pedigree is untouchable. She grew up in Santa Ana, which she remembers as a wonderful place, when downtown was where everyone went to see friends. “It’s very different now. All the places that marked my childhood are radically changed or gone.”

Prior to WWII, Dianne’s mother loved to swing dance to the famous bands of the era at the Rendezvous Ballroom on Balboa Island and at the Pavilion on Catalina. In the 1930s, Dianne’s grandfather had a cottage in Crystal Cove, #2.

“My mother used to bring me to Laguna in the forties and fifties, and I thought it was a magical place,” she says. “I always wanted to live here. It took a long time, but I finally made it in 1998.”

Friend extraordinaire

What else can I say about Dianne? She is a vault. Tell Dianne something you don’t want anyone else to know and you can be one hundred percent sure that no one will ever know – not even her doting husband Ron. She’s a very private person. Reading this article about her will be agony, she tells me, though I think she might like it. I hope so.

I am beyond blessed that she is my best friend and has been for 20 years. There aren’t too many like her in this world. She’s thoughtful, kind, and hilarious. 

Oh – but don’t cross her (I would never dare…). She’s no pushover. If you’re nasty to her, or to an animal (heaven forbid), she may write you into her novel. And there your character has a good chance of being murdered in the most horrible of ways…as sweet Dianne smiles her inscrutable smile and taps away at her keyboard, quietly channeling scenes from her favorite horror movie.

Open casting call for Pageant of the Masters Made in America draws a crowd of hopefuls

Story by DIANNE RUSSELL

Photos by Mary Hurlbut

As a kid, if you ever played the game “freeze,” you remember what it’s like to stay completely still – no twitching, no blinking, no scratching – it’s challenging to say the least. As most everyone knows, because the Pageant of the Masters’ cast re-creates famous artworks and sculptures known as “tableaux vivants,” or living pictures, the cast members must remain perfectly still for 90 seconds. 

No theater experience is necessary to attend the casting call. The only requirement is the ability to stand still and have fun, and the cast must have a lot of fun, since many return year after year.

According to Marketing Coordinator for Festival of the Arts Meghan Perez, over the past weekend, there were about 900 people who attended the three-day casting call for this year’s Pageant, Made in America. “We are expecting more sign-ups over the next couple weeks with people coming in for appointments. We’re encouraging anyone who was interested and couldn’t make it over the weekend to contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to schedule a time to get measured.”

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First time at casting call – (L-R) Katy Bainbridge, age 9, Gaby Bainbridge, age 11, and mom Michelle Bainbridge

Granted, it’s not a small commitment – seven days on and seven days off (Monday - Sunday) from July 8 - September 3 for at least two and a half to three hours a night. (Those not chosen go onto a summer substitute list of around 200.) Plus there are rehearsals every other Thursday beginning earlier in the year.

Of the approximately 1,000+ men, women, and children who sign up during a three-day casting call, 150 will be picked for the A team and 150 for the B team. Two cast members of similar (if not identical) height and body type are chosen for each part, a necessity since the cast has alternating weeks off. Ages range from 5 years to 85 years of age. As the sets are developed (two to three at a time), selection of cast members continues throughout the months of January to June. 

Construction Foreman David Talbot, who has been with the Pageant for 10 years, says, “We have eight sets built already. We’re ahead of the game.”

Standing still is only a part of what each potential cast member goes through during Pageant of the Masters. Quite a bit happens well before that first step on the set in July. 

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Technical Director Richard “Butch” Hall

Once the prospective cast members climb the stairs and enter the backstage area, paperwork is handed over to The Pageant’s Technical Director Richard “Butch” Hall, who directs them to the next step. Throughout the process, each will be measured 35 times (at different stations all manned by volunteers). They will also be photographed and meet the behind-the-scenes Pageant staff.

Pageant volunteers are also needed for the wardrobe, make-up, and headdress departments, as well as cast area coordinators and refreshment servers, among other positions. About 300 people are expected to be included in the pageant cast (two groups split into 150 volunteers each) and an additional 200 will help behind the scenes.

Brittany Clark Charnley, who started as a youngster in the Pageant, and was on the program cover in 1996, continued to be a cast member for quite a few years. She says, “I love the show, every art form is indescribable.” Her niece tried out this year.

Brittany’s mother Michelle Clark, who has been in the Pageant since 1995, said, “I am the only one who can say that I went to a bar with Jesus.” (Referring to the volunteer who played Jesus in The Last Supper.)

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Michelle Clark, a longtime volunteer in the Pageant 

“It takes over 500 volunteers, both onstage and behind-the-scenes, to put on the Pageant. We wouldn’t have a show without our volunteers! They have so much fun backstage and many volunteers return year after year to participate,” says Pageant Director Diane Challis Davy.

Trying out for the makeup department for the second year in a row, Monica Thompson and Chris Lins agreed, “It’s just great to be part of it, we had so much fun last year.” This year, they’re also hoping to be substitutes for the cast.

As she was recording measurements, Bettye Murphy shared that she has been a volunteer for 46 years. That’s got to be some kind of a record!

Judy Flanders, who has been with the costume department for 28 years, met her husband Bob while he was volunteering at the Pageant in 2010, and now they volunteer together. 

Judy says of the casting call, “As always, we have a wonderful time saying hello to old friends and meeting potential ‘teammates.’ The atmosphere is always so upbeat and fun…to me, it’s one of my favorite places on earth! Also, as always with the Pageant of the Masters, everything ran like a well-oiled clock.”

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Chris Simich, in his fourth year, measures Benjamin Webster. Simich creates all the headpieces.

In this summer’s production of Made in America, audiences will meet the artists – revolutionaries, innovators, dreamers – who not only made this country their home, but let their creativity be inspired by the freedoms upon which this nation was founded.

The show will include acknowledged masters of American art: N.C. Wyeth, Winslow Homer, Mary Cassatt, Norman Rockwell, Daniel Chester French, Luis Jimenez, and John Nieto.

Anita Mangels, FOA board member and pageant volunteer for 30 years, says, “Bizarre Bazaar is ‘our side show.’ The proceeds of sales from pieces from the Pageant are sold and go to the Student Volunteer Recognition Fund. The money goes to help kids who have volunteered in the Pageant and are now moving on to higher education. The funds are used for books and such.” 

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Bizarre Bazaar sells donated items from past Pageants to aid the Student Volunteer Recognition Fund

“This is a fun thing, something outside of normal, and gives the kids a head start. The donated props and materials are very eclectic and in keeping with the Pageant vibe. As part of the casting call, volunteers really look forward to seeing something from a scene they might have been in last year. It’s an opportunity for pieces from the Pageant to go on and have a new life. They have sentimental value to a lot of people.” 

The ultimate goal for those attending the casting call is a phone message stating, “We think you’re perfect for Pageant of the Masters, do you have the desire to make a commitment?” 

The Pageant’s extended family of volunteers continues to grow, as does the excitement and enthusiasm for each new production. 

It’s going to be a spectacular show, so don’t miss it.

The Pageant of the Masters production Made in America will be presented nightly from July 8 - September 3. Advance tickets are now on sale starting at $20 per person. 

To stay up to date on all things Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts, visit www.foapom.com.

Tangerine sky

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Photo by Scott Brashier

A boat travels in the direction of Catalina as the sunset bathes it in orange

Police Files

Burglary suspect arrested in Whittier following video ID

On Tuesday, Dec 31, at 10:31 a.m., LBPD officers were dispatched to a burglary report in the 900 block of South Coast Hwy. The reporting party stated a safe was stolen from inside of an office at the business. 

According to LBPD Spokesperson PIO Sgt Jim Cota, “Officers conducted an investigation and discovered the suspects entered through the front door at about 4:45 a.m., with a key from the lock box attached to a pole next to the business entrance. They then took the safe and exited through the back door onto the 100 block of Thalia Street.” 

Surveillance footage captured the alleged suspects entering the front door with possible video footage of the vehicle. A report was taken and forwarded to the Investigations Division. 

Sgt Cota said, “On Thursday, Jan 9, at 8:21 a.m., detectives responded to the City of Whittier in order to execute an arrest warrant for a suspect who is wanted fo a commercial burglary in the City of Laguna Beach.” 

Sgt Cota said, “The suspect, Matt Gauvin, was scheduled to meet with his probation officer and when he arrived at the location, detectives took him into custody. Matt James Gauvin, 45, of Whittier, was transported back to LBPD for booking and later taken to OC Jail.”

Bail was set at $60,000.

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.

Home burglarized in “cinder block break-in” 

On Thursday, Jan 9, at 10:45 p.m., an LBPD officer was dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of Panorama Drive in reference to a burglary report.

According to Sgt Cota, “The reporting party advised that they left the residence at approximately 6 a.m. and when they arrived on home at approximately 10:35 p.m., they discovered a cinder block was thrown through the back glass door and the master bedroom appeared ransacked.” 

Sgt Cota said, “Several pieces of jewelry were stolen and an approximate loss was determined to be $5,000. The homeowners cleaned up the crime scene prior to contacting the police department.”

 A report was taken by LBPD.

  -By Suzie Harrison

Laguna Beach – A Look Back

Courtesy of Laguna Beach Historical Society

Last week, we looked back at an early Temple Hills neighborhood. This week, here is the same time frame (1930ish) at Bluebird Canyon.

Homes had much more land back then, and the simple clapboard style with a pitched roof was a standard of early Laguna. To add interest to this photo, this is the home and studio of famous Laguna artist Frank Cuprien.

Mr. Cuprien was born in Brooklyn and studied both art and music. It is sometimes forgotten he was an accomplished singer and classical piano master. After art training in New York and Philadelphia, he completed an 11-year residency in Europe. Returning to the states, he accepted a faculty position at Baylor in Texas, where he taught as a professor for five years. Years later he would often sign his paintings “Prof Frank Cuprien.”

In 1912, in love with seascapes and the plein air impressionist movement, he left Baylor to spend more time in the Southern California beach areas. He was especially charmed by Laguna Beach’s coves and sunsets. After briefly living in Catalina, he permanently moved to Laguna Beach.

He built his home and studio on a bluff with a commanding ocean view, naming the rustic studio “the Viking.” He would draw the ocean by day and host piano recitals by night from this home. 

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Bluebird Canyon, circa 1930s – the home and studio of artist Frank Cuprien

Cuprien became one of the leaders in our growing art community through the 1920s. He was one of the founders of the Laguna Beach Art Association, and the first art gallery. 

“The Viking” was a vibrant bohemian site for his fellow artists to hang out and was a venue for frequent exhibitions and of course his famous piano recitals.

Known as the “dean of Laguna artists,” he passed of a stroke in “the Viking” in 1948 at age 76. He left his estate to the Laguna Beach Art Association, and requested he be buried in his blue painter’s smock. 

Cuprien Way, next to the corner of Wendt Drive and Thalia Street, is named in his honor but was not the site of “the Viking.” Viking Way, an oceanfront street at the base of Bluebird Canyon Drive, is said to have been named after the studio.

• • •

Laguna Beach Historical Society is located at 278 Ocean Ave. They are open Friday - Sunday from 1 - 4 p.m. For more information, call (949) 497-6834 or visit www.lagunabeachhistory.org.

Where’s Maggi – the answers!

This week’s challenge was pretty hard, but a few local beach insiders were spot on. Mark Porterfield, David Flores, and Wes Correll knew that this photo was taken at the beach one cove north of Thousand Steps – at Totuava. Wes added, “That’s Mr. Z’s shed on Totuava beach!”

Thanks for sending in your answers.

Look for Maggi’s next challenge coming up on Friday.    

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Stairs and shed at Totuava beach

School Board meeting agenda for Thursday includes upping legal budget to $100K

The agenda for Thursday’s (January 16) regular LBUSD Board meeting has been posted online here. Please note that LBUSD has transitioned to an electronic agenda system called BoardDocs.

Open session will begin at 6 p.m. at the District office, at 550 Blumont St, with closed session occurring beforehand at 5 p.m. Staff will provide an informational report to the Board on the 2020-21 LBUSD Comprehensive District and School Safety Plan. The Board will also conduct a second reading and consider the approval of several Board policies and bylaws.

Also on the agenda, on the consent calendar, is an amendment to increase the agreement with Rutan & Tucker by $50,000 for a total of $100,000. The law firm is representing four board members and the Superintendent in a lawsuit filed by board member Dee Perry.

For past agendas, minutes, and videos using the previous navigation menu, visit www.lbusd.org/board/board-meetings.

LBHS girls water polo teams win big

This past weekend the current CIF-SS D1 Champion LBHS girls water polo varsity team, as well as the JV team, finished up successful water polo tournaments. 

On Thursday, the Laguna JV team won two games in the Brahmas Varsity Tournament against the Canyon HS varsity team, 12-5, and the Palos Verdes HS varsity team, 11-9. Meanwhile up in Goleta, the Laguna varsity team won its first game in the Santa Barbara Tournament of Champions against Wilson HS from Long Beach 16-2. 

On Friday, the varsity team had another win, this time 12-3 against Carlsbad HS. On Saturday, the Laguna JV team won its semifinal game against the La Jolla HS varsity team, 7-4, while the Laguna varsity team battled Foothill HS from Tustin in their semifinal and came away with a 9-8 victory. 

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Submitted photo

LBHS JV team – Back Row (L-R): Cleo Washer, Isabel Foley, Marie Audebert, Lauren Smith, Tasha Denny, London Boyd, Carly Rohrer, Lauren Short, Jordan Schneider, Ryley McDennon, and Coach Bridgette Alvarez; Front Row (L-R): Emily Shabunov, Nicole Brown, Myha Pinto, Mac Jenal, Lexi Parness, and Eleanor Ramsey

Later in the day, the JV team had a close game in the Brahmas final, losing 12-13 to take second place against the CIF-SS D1 Santiago HS varsity team from Corona. The Laguna varsity team’s final was against Surf League rival Newport Harbor HS. The Laguna girls took first place with a 8-3 win. Juniors Molly Renner (MVP) and Emma Lineback were selected for the All-Tournament Team.

“I’m very happy for both of our groups and the way they performed this past weekend,” said Head Coach Ethan Damato. “It’s truly a by-product of the hard work and commitment put in by all the athletes in our program.”

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Submitted photo

LBHS varsity team – Back Row (L-R): Coach Nolan McConnell, Rachael Carver, Morgan Van Alphen, Mikayla Lopez, Ava Houlahan, Grace Houlahan, Lela McCarroll, Imani Clemons, Ella Baumgarten, Nicole Struss, Coach Ethan Damato, and Coach Erich Fischer; Front Row (L-R): Jessie Rose, Molly Renner (MVP), Emma Lineback (All-Tournament Team), Charlotte Riches, Hannah Carver, Skyler Kidd, Haley Parness, Emma Singer, Kenedy Corlett, and Lauren Schneider

This was the Breakers’ 16th “Big 3” in-season tournament title in 19 attempts since 2014. Last month the team won the Bill Barnett Holiday Cup for the seventh straight year, and later this month they will defend their title at the Irvine Southern California Championships.

Dennis’ Tidbits

By DENNIS McTIGHE 

January 14, 2020

Crazy Chicago and the weather according to “C”

Are you ready for this one? Here on Sunday, Lake Michigan had way better waves than Lake Laguna where it was barely knee high for two-year-olds and Chicago’s beaches were resembling Thalia Street on a good day with clean three to five-foot peaks at seven second intervals. Hey, I can’t make this stuff up! 

Let’s break it down…on Saturday a strong low pressure was strained near Toronto, Canada, a few hundred miles to the northeast of Chicago, while a strong high pressure was anchored just a few hundred miles to the north of the low. That strong pressure gradient between the high and the low sent northeast winds over Lake Michigan all day, causing solid wind waves as high as 10-12 ft. by Saturday afternoon. 

The winds began to abate by that afternoon and completely slackened throughout the overnight hours. As Sunday dawned, the surface of the lake had considerably cleaned up, as consistent three to five-foot clean peelers greeted some hardcore surfers who were totally ready for these most rare conditions. The air temp was 24 with a water temp a brisk 41. No problem! They had quarter-inch wetsuits with booties and gloves, taking full advantage of these most rare conditions, and knowing well that it would only last a few precious moments before the surf went flat, but they scored big time. The planets almost have to line up for this most rare event to happen. “Hey, where’d you surf yesterday?” “Um, Chicago.”

Here’s some more weather terminology…. 

Cirriform: All species and varieties of cirrus, cirrocumulus, and cirrostratus clouds composed of small ice crystals, usually transparent and white; often producing 22.5-degree halo phenomena not observed with other cloud forms. Average height upward from 20,000 ft. in middle latitudes.

Cirrocumulus: A cirriform cloud appearing as a thin sheet of small white puffs resembling flakes or patches of cotton without shadows; sometimes confused with tiny altocumulus. These clouds make for great sunsets around here.

Cirrostratus: A cirriform cloud appearing as a whitish veil, usually fibrous, sometimes smooth; often produces halo phenomena and sun dogs; may totally cover the sky. The sun is still slightly visible most of the time but appears fuzzy and can be viewed straight on without damage to the viewer’s retina.

Cirrus: A cirroform cloud in the form of thin, white featherlike clouds in patches or narrow bands; has fibrous and/or silky sheen; large ice crystals often trail downward a considerable vertical distance in fibrous, slanted, or irregularly curved wisps called mare’s tails.

Clineometer: An instrument used in weather observing for measuring angles of inclination. It is used in conjunction with a ceiling light to determine cloud height at night. I have one of these in my arsenal as well.

Convection: I mention this term often when I write about thunderstorms and turbulent weather. In general, mass motions within a fluid resulting in transport and mixing of the properties of that fluid. In meteorology, atmospheric motions that are predominantly vertical, resulting in vertical transport and mixing of atmospheric properties. These procedures often develop thunderstorm clouds  (cumulonimbus clouds).

More terms next time, ALOHA!

A touch of pink

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Photo by Scott Brashier

Gray clouds give way to a rosy blush

John Jorgenson Quintet joins Laguna Beach Live! on Jan 22 at [seven-degrees]

Hailed as “Perhaps the best jazz guitarist alive” by The New York Times, John Jorgenson, along with his quintet, will be joining Laguna Beach Live! on Wednesday, Jan 22 at the distinctive [seven-degrees].

First coming to national attention in the mid 80s as co-founder of successful country-rock act The Desert Rose Band, an eclectic array of artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Bob Seger, and Barbra Streisand were drawn to add John Jorgenson’s artistry to their own recordings. 

While a member of the Desert Rose Band, Jorgenson won the Academy of Country Music’s “Guitarist of the Year” award two consecutive years.

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Photo by Piper Ferguson

Join John Jorgenson along with his quintet on Jan 22 for a night of incredible jazz 

In the 90s, the award-winning guitar trio The Hellecasters, originally conceived by John as a “one off” gig for fun, gave audiences a chance to experience John’s fret-board fireworks and the trio’s three original albums remain favorites of guitarists everywhere. 

Having been a fan of the Desert Rose Band, Elton John invited Jorgenson to join his band in 1994 for an 18-month tour that stretched into a six-year stint of touring, recording, and TV appearances with the British superstar. John still joins Elton on stage today in addition to collaborations with other artists including Sting and Billy Joel.

Joining John on stage will be: jazz violinist Jason Anick; composer/arranger and jazz guitarist Max O’Rourke; respected Gypsy Jazz bassist Simon Planting; and veteran percussionist Rick Reed.

The concert is from 6 - 8 p.m.; doors open at 5. A full bar is available as well as dinner on a pre-sale basis. Tickets are $35 in advance, $55 with dinner, or $40 at the door and can be purchased at www.lagunabeachlive.org. For more information, call (949) 715-9713.

Jazz Wednesdays Winter Series starts February 12th with Grammy Award-winning Peter Erskine Trio.

LB Firefighters Association hosts event to benefit Firefighter Cancer Support Network on Jan 24

By DIANNE RUSSELL

The Laguna Beach Firefighters Association (LBFFA) is hosting a fundraiser on Friday, Jan 24 from 4 -10 p.m. at the Laguna Beer Company to benefit the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN). January has recently been designated as Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month by the International Association of Firefighters, whose theme is “Resolve to Evolve.” 

This is the first fundraiser event the LBFFA has held at a restaurant/brewery in support of the FCSN. Organizers promise attendees a wonderful evening – there will be great food, amazing beer, and wine available for purchase. There will also be live entertainment, raffles, and more.

California State Director for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network and active member of the LBFFA Captain Scott Jennie says, “The Laguna Beach Beer Company has graciously offered to donate 15 percent of the proceeds from the night to the LBFFA. LBFFA, in turn, will be donating 100 percent of these funds to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. We will be selling raffle tickets and raffling off prizes throughout the night. There is no charge to come out and attend the event; all are welcome.” 

Great raffle items

Captain Jennie continues, “I am unbelievably proud and moved by all the donations. The community support has truly been overwhelming. We have been given a generous amount of donated items such as a hotel stay at The Ranch, gift cards from numerous establishments including Hobie, Landmark Surf, Alessa, Romeo Cucina, Laguna Canyon Winery, Mozambique, Board and Brew, Wahoo’s, BJ’s Pizza, Lost Pier Café, Nirvana Grilel, Cryohaus, Toes on the Nose, Aliso Viejo Country Club, Proud Mary’s, Roots Laguna Beach, Fawn Memories, and I Love Bagels. Numerous other vendors have donated merchandise and swag. We also are receiving a donation from the OCFA Firefighters, Local 3631. We are still seeking donations to make the event as successful as we can. We will be selling LBFFA personal pint glasses, shirts, hats, and coffee mugs at the event, too.  A portion of these sales will also be donated to the FCSN.”

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Money donated to Firefighter Cancer Support Network from LB Firefighters Association from sale of T-shirts in October, Captain Jennie on right

The LBFFA, Local 3684 raised funds for the FCSN by selling cancer awareness shirts during the month of October. In addition, Deb Conroy, wife of Fire Captain Dan Conroy, graciously donated money she raised from her nonprofit, The Five and Dime Four Nation, at the same time. 

The FCSN is a 501(3)(c) nonprofit that provides awareness and education training as well as support for firefighters and their families who have been diagnosed with cancer.

From the FCSN: “Cancer is the most dangerous threat to firefighter health and safety today. In 2017, 74 percent of the names of fallen firefighters added to the IAFF Memorial Wall of Honor in Colorado Springs were attributed to occupational cancer.”

--Cancer caused 61 percent of the career firefighter line-of-duty deaths from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2016, according to data from the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). 

--Cancer caused 70 percent of the line-of-duty deaths for career firefighters in 2016. 

--Firefighters have a 9 percent higher risk of being diagnosed with cancer than the general U.S. population. 

--Firefighters have a 14 percent higher risk of dying from cancer than the general U.S. population. 

The FCSN provides support for firefighters and their families who are diagnosed with cancer. They also provide awareness and educational training free of charge.

Mission of FCSN

The mission of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network is to help fire/EMS members and their families cope with cancer and to provide occupational cancer awareness and prevention training nationwide. 

--Together, we can provide comfort, strength, and hope by sharing our own experiences with the devastating effects of cancer. 

--Together, we can educate fire/EMS members about the importance of cancer screenings and early detection. 

--Together, we can promote an understanding that cancer does not have to be faced alone. 

--Together, we can make a difference.

“As the California State Director for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network and active member of the LBFFA,” says Captain Jennie, “I am overwhelmed at the amazing support we are receiving from both the members of the LBFFA and the Laguna Beach community. It us truly an honor to work beside these amazing individuals and in this great community.” 

Laguna Beer Company is located at 859 Laguna Canyon Rd, next door to the Sawdust Festival.

For more information on the LBFFA, go to www.lbffa.org.

Highly anticipated Laguna Beach Garden Club 2020 Gate & Garden Tour set for May 2

On Saturday, May 2, the Laguna Beach Garden Club will host its annual Gate & Garden Tour, a major fundraiser for educational school gardens, local scholarships, and community projects. 

This year’s walking tour will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will visit gardens that are “quintessential Laguna Beach gardens” in two stunning Laguna Beach neighborhoods. 

The festive event will offer artisanal margaritas and Mexican fare for sale, free refreshments, and spectacular homemade baked goods, plein air painters in several gardens, and a raffle of prizes from local artists and businesses. 

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Lovely Laguna Beach gardens to be visited during walking tour 

The tour will begin and end at the beautiful Bruce Scherer Waterwise and Fire-Safe Gardens of the Laguna Beach County Water District Headquarters at 306 3rd St. 

Sponsors include: Laguna Beach Water District, Team Laguna RE/MAX Coastal Luxury Real Estate, and Tequila Corcel. 

Buses will continuously shuttle tour goers from the Laguna Beach County Water District Garden to the first neighborhood and back at the end of the walking route. To make the last tour of the day, you must arrive at the Water District Garden by 1 p.m. 

For further information regarding the 2020 tour, contact Karen Nelson, Gate & Garden Tour Director, by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (949) 280-4417. 

Tickets are available at www.lagunabeachgardenclub.org via Eventbrite and are $50 plus a handling fee.

Laguna Presbyterian Church presents award-winning musical duo on Sunday

The community is invited to hear Grammy Award-winning acoustic guitarist Mark Hanson and award-winning vocalist Greta Pedersen at Laguna Presbyterian Church on Sunday, Jan 19. The duo will be the guest musicians for Sunday morning services at 8:30 and 10 a.m.

The husband and wife team, based out of the Pacific Northwest, have performed throughout the world sharing the stage with many greats (including Jerry Garcia)!

Their past performances at LPC have been well received and highlight the impressive music program at the downtown Laguna Beach church. Hanson is known for his finger-picking guitar playing, having earned a Grammy for Henry Mancini: Pink Guitar CD in 2005. 

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Award-winning musicians Mark Hanson and Greta Pedersen to perform at Laguna Presbyterian on Sunday

In addition to their traveling concerts, where they perform a mix of playful jazz, Americana, and original tunes, the duo also played and sang for the President of the United States in 2009. 

Their talents extend beyond the stage, as their high-quality educational books, CDs, and videos for guitarists have won accolades in the industry. They have an inviting repertoire of material for guitarists at every level. 

Attendees at the Sunday service are welcome to use the church’s free parking lot on Third Street. People of all faiths are always welcome. 

For more information, visit www.lagunapreschurch.org 

The church is located at 415 Forest Ave.

LBUSD Board of Education transitions to electronic agenda system

The Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education has transitioned to an electronic agenda management system, BoardDocs, to improve the governance process, ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and enhance collaboration.

Thursday’s regularly scheduled school board meeting on January 16 at 6 p.m. is the first with an agenda compiled using BoardDocs.

BoardDocs is a Cloud-based technology board management solution that provides the tools and resources needed to manage a diverse committee structure with features that improve collaboration and incite better decision-making. 

BoardDocs uses a structured, collaborative workflow that is specifically designed to meet the unique needs and legal requirements of public school boards, county commissions, municipal governments, and a wide variety of other types of governing bodies.

Additionally, through the MetaSearch feature, members of the governing body will also have access to best practices from other organizations that are using the system, allowing them to gain important knowledge about initiatives other governing bodies have considered and implemented.

By accessing BoardDocs, interested district constituents can view meeting agendas and associated supporting documents, as well as print the information. All documents associated with the meeting are automatically archived and can be accessed by meeting date or by using the comprehensive search feature. 

The new board management features can be accessed via the district website at www.lbusd.org/boardagendas.

Gold rush

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Photo by Scott Brashier

Bright as a goldfish, the sand holds treasures untold

Laguna resident recognized as 2020 Orange County Big of the Year finalist

Catherine Helshoj of Laguna Beach has been recognized as an Orange County 2020 Big of the Year finalist for the local nonprofit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County. The Big of the Year winners will be announced January 28 at the Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteer information event, Big Night, in Irvine. All are invited to attend this free and special event. 

During this National Mentoring Month, five Big Brothers and five Big Sisters from across OC are among the top mentors honored this year. The exceptional finalists are recognized for having a significant impact in the lives of their Littles and going above and beyond as an advocate for the organization’s mission. 

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Catherine Helshoj has been recognized for her significant impact as a mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County program

Big Brothers Big Sisters matches youth facing adversity (Littles) one-to-one with a caring and enduring mentor (Bigs). With a mentor on their side, youth are more empowered to achieve milestones such as high school graduation, set postsecondary goals, and strive for long-term success as they achieve their full potential. 

Big Brother of the Year finalists include: Kyle Cormier of Costa Mesa, Koenraad Lecot of Costa Mesa, Jacob Mize of Fullerton, Ricardo Rivas of Santa Ana, and John Viscounty of Santa Ana

Big Sister of the Year finalists include: Catherine Helshoj of Laguna Beach, Valisa Carney of Redlands, Bonny Chou of Long Beach, Jasmine Johnson of Fullerton, and Marilyn Stemper of Corona del Mar.

This year’s finalists have demonstrated significant impact in the lives of their Littles, evidenced by each child’s academic, behavioral, and social-emotional progress. Finalists have demonstrated a passion for the organization’s mission and have been champions for Big Brothers Big Sisters through recruitment efforts and advocacy of mentorship in the community. 

“Our Big of the Year finalists are a testament to the impact that mentorship can have on underserved youth,” said Sloane Keane, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire. “Mentors like these 10 individuals help empower youth and ignite their inherent potential so they can navigate difficult situations and thrive. This National Mentoring Month, we are so proud to honor our finalists and thank our thousands of volunteers who go above and beyond in their commitment to creating positive change.” 

RSVPs for the event are requested here, as the organization is expecting a packed event. 

To learn more about the organization and how to get involved, visit www.ocbigs.org or www.iebigs.org.

Christina Adams, local author of new book Camel Crazy, to speak in OC on Jan 30

 Laguna resident Christina Adams is an award-winning writer and journalist with a background in aerospace, government, and health. She is the author of the new book Camel Crazy: A Quest for Miracles in the Mysterious World of Camels (New World Library). 

Adams has two upcoming local events at which she’ll be discussing her book. The first is at The Hill Bookstore at UCI on Thursday, Jan 30 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., and the second is at fashion designer Rohini Bedi’s store Fashion By Rohini in Artesia, on Sunday, Feb 2 from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m., in partnership with food entrepreneur and Kitchen Queens associate Smita Vasant of Saffron Spot, who will serve camel milk tea. 

Camel Crazy is a memoir/narrative blend, but wraps in fun, quirky information on camels, their milk, their unique biology and characteristics, behavior, and the science behind the milk’s health benefits. It features the moving and humorous voices of camel experts, traditional camel society caregivers, modern camel nomads, and wet-behind-the-ears camel lovers. 

Famed Virginia farmer-author Joel Salatin contributed a passionate foreword. 

Describing her book, Adams says, “It is the story of how I was a newly single mom when I met a man with a camel (at Orange Coast College) and had the idea that the milk would help my son’s autism symptoms and health. Against all odds, I flew it into LAX from Bedouins in the Israel/Palestine desert and my son greatly improved. Soon, I gained USDA permission to import it for autism. I pushed through official and geographic boundaries and explored camel milk, science, and cultures, from Hindu, Amish, Mennonite, Muslim, Somali, Christian, and more. 

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Photo by Kristie Parker

Christina Adams, author of “Camel Crazy: A Quest for Miracles in the Mysterious World of Camels

“This experience made me into an unlikely camel expert, and even led to me writing an often-cited medical journal article and doing an experiment with scientists in a Nobel Prize-winning lab. Now I speak on the milk around the world as thousands of people are using it worldwide. In part due to my work, the camel has become the second-fastest growing livestock in the world.”

The book is set in Orange County and branches out into a global story, with locations in UAE, India, and the U.S. Adams says, “Even as Australia plans to shoot 10,00 camels this week, there are compelling reasons for their survival, as I discuss in the book.” 

Adams is also the author of A Real Boy (Penguin). She has an MFA in Creative Writing and her work has been featured by NPR, the Washington Post, OZY, the Los Angeles Times, the Orange County Register, Open Democracy, RAVISHLY, the Public Library of Science, Orange Coast Magazine, Web MD, Global Advances in Health and Medicine, Dubai One, Khaleej Times, Epocha, TATA SKY, The Rajasthan Patrika, The Writer, literary magazines, and many more. She speaks on writing, health, camels, and autism internationally, including for audiences in Germany, India, England, Pakistan, UAE, and the U.S. 

New York Times best-selling author Caroline Levitt says, “This book can change the world.” National Book Award finalist Sy Montgomery calls it “fascinating and important.” Best-selling author Jen Pastiloff calls it “magical…I want everyone to read this book.” Geneticist and author Dr. Ricky Lewis calls it “mesmerizing.” 

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Photo by Kristie Parker

Available at Barnes and Noble, Amazon, and independent bookstores 

Richard McCarthy of Slow Food International calls it, “Heroic, a joy to read and an important reminder…that animals matter and biodiversity matters.” Randy Fertel, co-founder of Edible Schoolyard New Orleans, says, “I was looking for a camel milk source by page 38.” 

Camel milk, which is now scientifically documented as having a positive impact on a variety of health conditions, is currently widely sold in the U.S. There is also a first-ever users’ guide to camel milk and a list of global sources in the back of the book. 

 Adams says, “I also used sensitivity readers and worked to let pastoral people’s voices be directly heard. Additionally, the book is endorsed by Orange County neurologist Dr. Caroline Choan, various scholars, nomadic persons, and autistic persons such as speaker and author Dr. Stephen Shore.”

The book is available at Barnes and Noble, independent bookstores, Amazon, and the usual places where books are sold. Additionally, the book is going to be distributed by Penguin Random House in India (English version) and is available in many countries.

 In other California events, Adams will be speaking at the Camelid Symposium in Sacramento on Saturday, Jan 18 at 3:30 p.m. She also has a book signing at the Barnes and Nobles Arden Fair on Sunday, Jan 19.

The book was just featured on the Public Library of Science Genetics Blog here and in Ravishly here.

For more information on Christina Adams, go to www.christinaadamsauthor.com.

Sign-ups open for Spring 2020 Breakers girls youth basketball players

In preparation for the upcoming 2020 season, sign-ups have begun for the Breakers girls youth basketball team. This program is for girls from first through eighth grades.

Coach Matthew Tietz says, “We believe this club program is dramatically improving the development of our youth players and better preparing them for competing at high school level. The teams will be coached by the high school coaching staff. We run most of the same drills, plays, offenses, and defenses that high school team runs. We are focused on developing complete basketball players ready to compete physically, fundamentally, and mentally at the high school level and to have the girls enjoying the process.”

The program will be fielding two tournament teams: a 7th/8th grade team and 4th/5th/6th grade team. Coach Tietz says, “This is an inclusive club open for anyone who wants to participate. Players do not have to ‘make the team,’ however, space is limited as we will cut off the sign-ups at 10 players per team unless we have enough for two teams at an age group. Spots are awarded on a first come, first served basis.” 

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Photo by Scott Brashier

Coach Matthew Tietz with this year’s varsity team

In addition to the tournament teams and their practices, the coach will have a twice per week “clinic” for players that want the experience and training but don’t want to play in the tournaments. Although geared more towards the younger girls, this is open to anyone.

Games

“We will once again be hosting tournaments at Laguna Beach High School that will be run by our girls high school team,” says Coach Tietz. Breaker teams will play anywhere from two to five games each of these weekends: March 28 and 29, April 18 and 19, May 9 and 10, and May 30 and 31.

Practices

Practices will start March 3 and run through May 28.

Practices will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Each team will get one-and-one-half hour practices twice per week. It has not been finalized which teams will practice on which days or at which times.

Cost

The cost is $200 to be on a tournament team.

The cost is $100 to attend the non-tournament clinic practices. 

Jerseys will be provided by the team and need to be returned at the end of the season (unless a player already owns one). 

To sign up or for more information, email Coach Tietz at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Laguna Playhouse presents The Perfect Dog musical this weekend

Laguna Playhouse is pleased to present The Perfect Dog, The Musical this weekend, with music and lyrics by David Abbinanti, book by Jill Abbinanti, and inspired by the book The Perfect Dog by John O’Hurley. 

This heartwarming musical about man’s best friend and their people is sure to be treasured by dog lovers and non-dog lovers alike. Performances will begin on Friday, Jan 17 and continue through the 19th. 

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

“The Perfect Dog, The Musical” will perform this weekend (Jan 17 through 19) at Laguna Playhouse

Sam, a 12-year old perfectionist, is searching for a flawless dog to enter in the town’s dog contest. Unable to find a canine that measures up, Sam must resort to training the family dog, Max, who is less than eager to obey commands. 

With all the wonderful kinds of dogs in the world, is there really just one kind that is better than all the rest? John O’Hurley’s delightfully charming and Seuss-like book answers that question with a surprisingly perfect answer.

David Abbinanti (Broadway’s Saturday Night Fever and Ring of Fire) and Jill Abbinanti (TV’s Law & Order: SVU and Pan Am) have transformed this delightful story into a Theatre for Young Audiences musical about perfectionism, friendship, and the acceptance of others. 

The Perfect Dog, The Musical marks Playhouse Director of Education and Outreach Dylan Russell’s Playhouse directorial debut. Russell states, “We’re very excited to be presenting this wonderfully touching story about the relationships between dogs and their people. Laguna Playhouse is a dog-friendly environment, and we are well aware of how many perfect dogs there are!”

Performances will be Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 1 and 5 p.m.

Tickets range from $28 for adults and $18 for youth under 15 and can be purchased online at www.lagunaplayhouse.com or by calling (949) 497-ARTS (2787). Group discounts are available by calling (949) 497-2787 ext. 229. Prices subject to change.

The Laguna Playhouse is located at 606 Laguna Canyon Dr. 

The show is produced by special arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide.

Locals to meet at Main Beach for Women’s March on Saturday

A group of locals will gather on Saturday, Jan 20 at Main Beach in support of the 4th Annual Women’s March, taking place at various locations throughout the country.

The event is being organized by longtime locals Anne Caenn and Marcia Yury. 

“This year’s Women’s March promotes inclusivity and equality for all, and reinforces that women’s rights are human rights and human rights are women’s rights,” stated Caenn.

The group will gather from 10 a.m. to noon.

Guest Column

January message from the Chamber President

By J.J. Ballesteros, President of LB Chamber of Commerce

I hope everyone had an amazing holiday and Happy New Year. The year 2019 was one of growth for the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce. We want to thank all of you who played a role in making it so special. We were able to strengthen our relationships with our member base, sponsors, city officials, and community.

As 2020 begins, we would like to take into consideration the constructive work accomplished by the chamber in 2019. It was a memorable year with noteworthy accomplishments. The board and staff are working mindfully in our preparation for the 2020 year. As always, we are focused on building off the 2019 momentum and being an even bigger advocate, resource, and champion for our members and community.

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Courtesy of Chamber of Commerce

J.J. Ballesteros, president of LB Chamber of Commerce

Accomplishments – 2019

In July, the City Council approved changes in the parking code recommended by the Chamber to ease some of the restrictions on local businesses, allowing for the implementation of innovative practices. These include:

--Allowing major interior remodels without requiring additional parking 

--Expanding the in-lieu parking purchase program to be citywide and removing the cap on the number of spaces purchased 

--Allowing in-lieu payments to be annual and not a one-time outlay 

--Increasing the parking credits for outdoor dining from three to five 

--Allowing use of innovative parking techniques, such as shuttle services, to be used to meet the parking requirements

--Removing the requirement that any new business must supply two parking spaces (this means that a business can sublease space without providing additional parking)

The Chamber reallocated its city funding to contribute to hiring an Urban Economist to perform a study of the downtown and offer suggestions on how to enhance the downtown experience. The study is in, and we are awaiting the city’s review. 

The Chamber broke attendance records with three signature events: The State of the City, The Chamber Golf Tournament, and The Leadership Luncheon. 

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

2019 Taste of Laguna Food & Music Festival 

The Chamber collaborated with KX 93.5FM and held its first ever Taste of Laguna Food & Music Festival. The event drew over 1,100 people and was a great night for Laguna. 

The Chamber, in conjunction with the city, hosted Hospitality Night. It was a great night of networking and bringing in the holidays. 

The Chamber held valuable breakfast panels on “How to Use Local Media,” “How to Use Social Media to Grow Your Business,” and a Sexual Harassment Training Seminar that provided excellent content and was well received. 

The Chamber sponsored dozens of Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies celebrating new businesses and new members. 

The Chamber also brought back its Ambassador Team which is comprised of a great group of people who are volunteering their time to help us put on these events. 

We hired our new Executive Director Paula Arnold and Events & Marketing Manager Ashley von Gremp. 

We added two new board members, Tyler Russell from KX 93.5FM and Chef Craig Strong from Ocean at Main. 

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Courtesy of Chamber of Commerce

Chamber of Commerce members

We instituted Chamber Chat with our partners at KX 93.5FM, where one chamber member is interviewed live on Fridays at 8 a.m. 

We had an amazing response for Small Business Saturday with over 100 participating businesses. One of our locals won the Grand Prize of a two-night stay at The Ranch at Laguna Beach in a two-bedroom cottage suite, including lunch or breakfast for four. 

Plans for 2020

--Think Laguna First campaign (www.thinklagunafirst.org) 

--Chamber Board Installation, January 23; Leadership Luncheon, February 27; and State of the City, May 14 

--Chamber Golf Tournament presented by Tropare’ Inc. at Aliso Viejo Country Club, May 18 

--Taste of Laguna Food & Music Festival, October 15; Small Business Saturday, November 28; and Hospitality Night, December 4 

--Breakfast Panels covering relevant topics for our local businesses 

--Continuing our Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies for new members and businesses

And much more…

As the Chamber looks to increase its membership, we also aim to be the number one resource for our local businesses. Please feel free to share any thoughts, ideas, or feedback on how we can better assist you and your business.

Thank you again, Laguna!

The Yoga Line introduces new casual apparel at Grand Opening on Thursday

Co-owners of The Yoga Line Shereen Loth and Shannon Saathoff are introducing their new line of yoga-type clothing at a grand opening event and ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, Jan 16 at their store at 1853 S Coast Hwy. The Yoga Line is affordable luxurious casual apparel 100 percent made in Laguna for the comfy beach lifestyle.

During the event, Loth and Saathoff will be offering a 20 percent discount throughout the entire store. Hor d’oeuvres and beverages will be served.

Both Loth and Saathoff concur, “Offering an affordable line of yoga and casual clothing created and manufactured here in Laguna Beach is an exciting opportunity for us. Knowing that we can help our community look great and feel great, while providing jobs and a space where our customers can feel confident in the quality and sourcing of the products, is a goal we’ve worked hard to achieve and are proud to have done so!” 

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The Yoga Line, 1853 S Coast Hwy

Loth has been a resident and business owner in Laguna since 2006. She is the longtime owner of Delicate Illusions and has vast experience in the clothing business.

Loth says, “We opened our doors in September in order to start getting a ‘pulse’ on what people are thinking. They love the feel of the fabric, it is so soft. That is the hard part of selling online. You can’t feel it. It is truly irresistible once you touch the fabric and imagine spending your day in this soft feeling. We have had multiple local women come back to buy more of what they had previously purchased because it is so comfortable, and when they walk in, they just happen to be wearing it. It is so satisfying to see this.”

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Co-owners Shannon Saathoff (on left) and Shereen Loth

Their concept was to produce the most comfortable yoga-type clothing in the marketplace at affordable pricing. Loth says, “Our clothing is for every woman, whether she is a yoga enthusiast or not, but the fabric choices are selected with these key elements in mind: soft, flexi, durable, easy-care, simple styling, layering, flattering. The clothing is for the busy mom who puts it on in the morning, gets her kids to school, maybe attends a yoga class, walks, aerial, lifts weights, hits the grocery store, runs errands, domestic chores or runs a business from home, gets kids to soccer after school, plans and executes dinner, homework, puts the kids to bed, then realizes she is still wearing the same comfy leggings and T-shirt top that she put on first thing in the morning.”

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Comfortable yoga-type clothing 

Loth and Saathoff started developing the pieces in April, and since then, says Loth, “Shannon and I both, who are extremely active entrepreneurs, find this to be true for ourselves, we love the comfort of these clothes. We have only created two ‘collections’ so far and have many designs to still develop. All of them are available online: www.theyogaline.com.”

Loth says, “I love this small community and the village of support it brings.  I have never experienced this type of outpouring of willingness to help one another achieve their dreams. From helping with carpools, donations, charity functions, and shopping local, the people who live here genuinely care to help one another. I love this, and I love the feeling when I dress someone and they respond with such joy of how good they feel. It really does take a village, and we have that in Laguna Beach.”

They are currently developing a men’s collection. Loth says, “Men enjoy being comfortable as well, and are often left out when it comes to feeling pampered with apparel.”

The Yoga Line is located at 1853 S Coast Hwy. For more information, call (949) 933-9425.

Laguna’s Dr. Anita Wang, MD, to host Baseline Health Open House on Jan 21

On Tuesday, Jan 21, Dr. Anita Wang, MD, invites the Laguna Beach community to get an alternative snapshot of their baseline health at her office’s Open House. 

From 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 5 - 7 p.m., guests are encouraged to learn more about holistic anti-aging healthcare and will receive a complimentary Essential Wellness screening. 

For those with health and fitness-related New Year’s resolutions, Dr. Wang’s complimentary Essential Wellness screening is a great place to start, as it includes measuring nitric oxide and pH levels. 

These simple saliva tests can be important indicators of greater underlying health issues. Whereas pH levels show one’s overall physical wellbeing, nitric oxide levels may warn of potential risk of stroke or other blood flow-related disorders.

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

Dr. Anita Wang invites community to Open House on Jan 21

Dr. Wang herself has created not just a New Year’s but a New Decade’s resolution for 2020: to help 100,000 sufferers find optimal health and beauty naturally, without drugs and complicated medical procedures. 

Having been an emergency room doctor for over 25 years, she laments, “I too often see patients after a lifetime of care focused on disease rather than prevention – never getting better even with multiple surgeries and prescriptions – and I always wish I could have been there to guide their younger selves to the right path before it was too late. This is my chance to do that.”

To reach this audacious goal, Dr. Wang donates her time and services to help educate the community that suffering silently with discomfort is not the solution. She believes passionately that having a life full of energy and a radiant glow is achievable – naturally – with the right guidance. One relieved resident Laura states, “I finally feel like all my issues are being addressed in a holistic approach that really makes sense.”

For more information about Dr. Anita Wang, MD, visit www.anitawangmd.com. 

Dr. Wang’s integrative medicine practice, Wellness, Longevity, and Aesthetics, is located at 255 Thalia Street, Unit B.

45+ top Orange County chefs are tackling OC homelessness

Story by Diane Armitage

The biggest, swankiest chefs’ dinner in the LA Basin, OC Chef’s Table, is back at the largest ballroom Disneyland has to offer in Disneyland Hotel’s Grand Ballroom on Sunday, March 1.

Here’s your chance to dine at your favorite chef’s table and give to a worthy cause that we’re all working together to find a solution for – homelessness.

Each year, more top-ranked chefs in Orange County (and now Los Angeles and Palm Desert, too) fairly clamor to be involved in this one great night as they individually cook for 10 guests while collectively raising more than $1 million in funds for specific projects such as emergency and permanent housing for homeless families with small children.

More than 45 celebrity & award-winning chefs in one room

This year, Food Network’s Celebrity Chef Jet Tila is back with his darling Pastry Chef wife, Ali. 

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Courtesy of Illumination Foundation/OC Chef’s Table

Napa Rose Executive Chef Andrew Sutton tries a new sauce while sous chefs look on

Disneyland’s Napa Rose Executive Chef Andrew Sutton is host again, and he’s welcoming chefs from all points including Rich Mead (Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens), Bryan Brown (Bourbon at MBR), Chris Simons (Andrea at Pelican Hill), Corey Muir (Bosscat), Alfonso Ramirez (Catal), Clint Chin (Club 33), Magellan Moore (Mastro’s Ocean Club), Stephen LaFountain (Mastro’s Steakhouse), Peter Lai (Blind Rabbit Speakeasy), Chef of the Year in OC John Park (Toast), and many more.

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Courtesy of Harley Restaurant

Chef Greg Daniels of Harley is returning again to OC Chef’s Table along with three other Laguna Beach chefs

Laguna Beach is (so far) sending up four great chefs, all of whom have participated in the past – they’re hooked! Chef Greg Daniels at Harley, Chef Andrew Gruel with Slapfish and co-host of the popular OC Restaurant Radio Show, and Chefs Nick Bennett and Jayro Martinez at the newly rocking AhbA will be there. 

Doing what it takes to get homeless people back on their feet 

This is a renowned annual gala, produced by Illumination Foundation, the fast-growing nonprofit agency working to disrupt homelessness on a permanent basis. While Illumination Foundation started with a mission to primarily help homeless women and families, its work has rapidly expanded to provide temporary housing and a full circle of services to everyone struggling in homelessness, including our veterans and homeless individuals requiring assistance and recuperative care after hospitalization and surgery. 

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Courtesy of Illumination Foundation/OC Chef’s Table

Food Network Celebrity Chef Jet Tila, far left, mugs with fellow chefs before the OC Chef’s Table dinner gets underway

Clearly, I love what this group is doing, and I’ve been lucky enough to be interviewing each of the chefs involved in the event for three years now (such amazing individuals). 

To find tickets and tables, click here. 

To see all the chefs participating, click here.  

To read my blog interviews at the OC Chef’s Table website as I’m weekly adding more, click here.  

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 www.TheBestofLagunaBeach.com and follow on Instagram @BestOfLagunaBeach (look for Diane’s smiling face).

OC Sheriff’s Homeless Outreach Team assists with sheltering 161 people during first year 

 The Orange County Sheriff’s Department Homeless Outreach Teams assisted with sheltering 161 people in temporary and permanent housing through various resources during their first full year of service in 2019. 

The cities and areas reached include: Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, Harbor Patrol, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, North Operations, OCTA, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Southeast Operations, Southwest Operations, Stanton, Villa Park, and Yorba Linda. 

The Homeless Outreach Teams consist of 25 deputies and sergeants working as Homeless Liaison Officers. The teams are dedicated and trained to recognize the need for the rapid provision of resources to the homeless community. 

Deputies receive additional training on recognizing and relating to those suffering from mental illness and how to connect the homeless population with available services and resources.

The Sheriff’s Department’s approach to homelessness is a balance of outreach and enforcement. In 2019, in addition to the 161 individuals sheltered, the Homeless Outreach Teams conducted 3,764 field interviews, made 719 arrests, and issued 735 citations. 

As these figures do not include contacts by deputies working in a patrol capacity, the total field interviews, arrests, and citations issued to homeless individuals is likely higher.

“We have been very proactive in addressing homelessness in our communities,” said Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes. “We are actively engaging with individuals who are experiencing homelessness to provide outreach to those who are interested and enforce non-status violations of law. While respecting the constitutional rights of all individuals regardless of their housing status, we are dedicated to the safety and security of our residents.

“Homelessness is a community issue. Despite hurdles such as criminal justice reform, court rulings, and a lack of available housing and shelters, we will work collaboratively with cities, the County, service providers, nonprofits, and the public. Ending homelessness will require us to work jointly and address root causes like mental illness and drug addiction. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department will continue to take a proactive approach toward ending homelessness and its impacts.”

Guest Column

New Year’s Resolution: Get Your Business in Good Tech Shape in 2020

By Jodi Duva, Cox Business

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Jodi Duva

Here’s how to stay up to date and secure for years to come

It’s a new year and the start of a new decade. Twenty years ago, we were extremely concerned about Y2K (remember that?). While that theory didn’t come to pass, it’s still important for small business owners to have a plan that will enable their business to stay strong, resilient, and protected from future threats. 

Even if you think you’re fine and up to date, it never hurts to re-assess how well you’re both serving and protecting your customers. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, in 2018 alone, there were more than 1,200 data breaches across businesses and government agencies that exposed over 446 million records. Stories like these are reminders that one hack can create millions in lost revenue and untold time spent remedying the damage. 

Staying current on best practices for business technology is also a great way to stay competitive and demonstrate to your customers that you prioritize efficiency and security. Here are some tips to ensure your business stays ahead of the curve on the tech front. 

High-speed Internet is the lifeline of any business

This seems obvious, but businesses today must have a reliable Internet connection with the speeds and capabilities that their day to day operations require. Business apps and software are increasingly hosted online, rather than installing on a desktop or laptop computer. Unreliable Internet service means lots of hidden costs and hours of added stress. Plus, if you own a brick-and-mortar business, more consumers expect businesses to provide complimentary WiFi access as part of the customer experience. 

Have a separate WIFI connection for customers 

Any brick-and-mortar business today knows customers want WiFi access, whether you’re a restaurant, doctor’s office, or boutique hotel. However, allowing the general public to log on to your company’s WiFi network could pose a serious risk. 

Educate your employees about good cybersecurity practices

The most common cause of data breaches is human error, plain and simple – 64 percent of security events in 2018 were caused by employee, vendor, or contractor errors. Even the most tech-savvy employees could bring their own personal devices onto your network or make a mistake that puts your network at risk. 

The best way to defend against this type of unintentional negligence is educating employees about the different types of security threats (viruses, malware, phishing, etc.), how to identify them, and protocols for escalating suspicious emails and requests. Communicate requirements for dealing with sensitive customer information at the time of new hire training, and make sure your ongoing cybersecurity training is engaging enough to stick, and brief enough not to be a burden. 

Keep an inventory of who can log in to your network 

Take an inventory of who has access to your company’s network – it’s likely more people than you think. When an employee leaves the company, immediately withdraw their login credentials for any company device. You may also want to consider changing your passwords and investing in cybersecurity tools that keep your company’s information safe. 

Back up in the cloud, give yourself and employees more security and flexibility

Ninety-six percent of IT professionals surveyed in the RightScale 2018 State of the Cloud Report said their companies were using cloud computing services. A cloud service not only provides more protection, efficiency, and flexibility for business owners, but also provides employees the ability to access work files using multiple devices and locations. Because the data is housed over the cloud network, it also promotes collaboration, allowing multiple users to access the same files at the same time, which is very helpful in project scenarios. 

This time of year, many people make resolutions for their personal lives, but if you are an entrepreneur, it is important to also focus on attainable goals that will advance and protect your business. Adopting the latest tech best practices and protecting sensitive data not only keeps your business strong – it greatly reinforces the trust your customers place in you. 

Jodi Duva has more than 20 years of experience in the telecommunications industry. She is currently an executive for Cox Business, helping to bring innovative products and services to Southern California businesses.

Chamber of Commerce to host Annual Board of Directors Installation Mixer on Jan 23

The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce will host its Annual Board of Directors Installation Mixer on Thursday, Jan 23 at Marine Room Tavern. The event, which begins at 5:30 p.m., will be catered by Ristorante Rumari.

J.J. Ballesteros, President of the Board of Directors, will preside over the ceremonies. Mayor Bob Whalen will preside over the Installation of the Board Officers.

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The Chamber will host its Annual Board of Directors Installation Mixer on Jan 23 at Marine Room Tavern; seen here are Chamber Directors (L-R) Carmelit Green, David Rubel, Julie Laughton, J.J. Ballesteros, and Norm Grossman

2020 Chamber Board of Directors include:

--J.J. Ballesteros – President

--Julie Laughton – President Elect

--Dave Rubel – Vice President

--Carmelit Green – Treasurer

--Norm Grossman – Secretary

--Dawn Knepper – Director

--Doug Vogel – Director

--Hasty Honarkar – Director

--Mark Meisberger – Director

--Reinhard Neubert – Director

--Scott Sanchez – Director

--Craig Strong - Director

--Tyler Russell – Director

Prices for the event are $15 for Chamber Members and $20 for Prospective Members. 

Visit www.lagunabeachchamber.org to register for this annual event. 

The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce has served the businesses of Laguna Beach since 1917 as a tool for promoting commerce and allowing members to connect to one another and the community. The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce’s core mission is to promote, represent, and support members of the business community.

If you have any questions or would like more information on the Laguna Beach Chamber, contact (949) 494-1018 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Marine Room Tavern is located at 214 Ocean Ave.

Community invited to welcome reception for new Director of Community Development today

The City of Laguna Beach invites members of the public and City staff to a welcome reception for the City’s new Director of Community Development, Marc Wiener, today (January 14) at 4:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. Light refreshments will be served.

Wiener spent the last four years as Community Planning and Building Director for the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Calif., where he oversaw the Planning, Building Safety, Zoning, and Code Compliance Divisions. 

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The City invites the community to a welcome reception for the new Director of Community Development, Marc Wiener, today (Jan 14)

He holds a Master’s degree in Urban Planning from San Jose State University, is certified by the American Institute for Certified Planners (AICP), and has experience in both current and long-range planning. 

For more information on the event, contact Mariann Tracy, Executive Assistant to the City Manager, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (949) 497-0308.

The City Council Chambers are located at 505 Forest Ave.

LOCA kicks off monthly art talks for the public on Thursday

LOCA Arts Education invites art lovers to its LOCA Art Talks events, offered monthly in downtown Laguna Beach. The fun, educational, and interactive gatherings take place on third Thursdays from 4 - 5:30 p.m. “Our events are great for artists and non-artists alike,” said program coordinator Cindy Fletcher. “Our speakers are always friendly and engaging,” she said.

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Artist Mia Moore to present at Thursday’s LOCA Art Talk 

The 2020 season kicks off with Contemporary Collage on Thursday, Jan 16. Presenters are artists Carolyn Machado and Mia Moore. Both are influenced by Asian aesthetics – Machado creates assemblages of found objects and artifacts, while Moore creates two-dimensional and folded works from antique papers.

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LOCA kicks off 2020 LOCA Art Talks season with artist Carolyn Machado 

Upcoming presenters include goldsmith Karin Worden on February 20, poet and magic realist painter Paul Bond on March 19, gallery owner, arts editor, and curator Vanessa Rothe on April 16, and eco dye textile artist Reem Khalil on May 21.

Admission is $20 per event, and free to LOCA members. Advance registration is requested. Call (949) 363-4700 or visit the calendar page at www.locaarts.org to reserve your spot.

LCAD Gallery is located at 374 Ocean Ave. Metered street parking is available.

Laguna Beach resident Cathy Moses named partner at Cox, Castle & Nicholson LLP

Cox, Castle & Nicholson LLP, an award-winning full-service law firm focused on real estate in the U.S., proudly announces the promotion of Cathy T. Moses to partner. 

A Laguna Beach resident, Moses is based in Cox, Castle & Nicholson’s Orange County office. She first joined Cox, Castle & Nicholson’s Litigation team as senior counsel in 2017. 

Her experience spans a wide range of business and real estate litigation matters, including business torts, contracts, partnership disputes, and employment litigation. She has achieved successful outcomes for the firm’s clients at all stages of litigation, including pre-litigation negotiations, dispositive motion practice, trial, and appeal. 

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Cathy Moses has been named a partner at Cox, Castle & Nicholson LLP

Outside of the office, she serves on the board of directors of the Constitutional Rights Foundation Orange County. She graduated magna cum laude and Order of the Coif from the University of Michigan Law School, and earned her bachelor’s degree cum laude in history and literature from Harvard University. 

After graduating from law school, she served as a law clerk to The Honorable M. Margaret McKeown of the United States Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. From 2011 to 2012, she served as a Trial Attorney with the United States Department of Justice, Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, in Washington, D.C.

More for information on Cox, Castle & Nicholson LLP, visit www.coxcastle.com.