City Unveils Temporary Skate Ramps at Community & Recreation Center
LAM to Host First-Ever Decorative Arts Show
By LB Indy Staff
The City of Laguna Beach has installed temporary skate ramps at the Community & Recreation Center for city-sponsored skate classes, camps, and free skating during fixed daytime hours.
Laguna Beach City Council recently approved the installment of the temporary skate ramps to answer residents’ requests to provide a safe skateboarding location for local youth to enjoy.
The temporary skate ramps are open Monday through Friday, from 2 p.m. to dusk and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, contact the Community & Recreation Center at (949) 715-8620. The center is located at 30516 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 92651.
Adam Neeley’s ‘Modern Alchemy’ fuses art and nature into jewelry design
By LB Indy Staff
For the first time, Laguna Art Museum will showcase the luminous world of ornamental bling in a new decorative arts show opening mid-February.
Modern Alchemy, an exhibition showcasing the fusion of art, nature, and innovation in the jewelry designs of the renowned designer Adam Neeley, will be on view from Feb. 17 through July 29.
“Modern Alchemy explores my journey as an artist, from early years of gemstone cutting and silversmithing to developing my own unique design aesthetic &
Valentine’s Day Card Campaign Spreads Waves of Love
By
Clara Beard | LB Indy
Four years ago, local attorney Meldie Moore set out to make Laguna a little more loving. Roused by Mother Teresa’s famous saying, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples,” Moore set out in 2020 to create different projects for her small law firm, Moore Law for Children, to help local business owners and nonprofits.
“I called it a Wave of Change, hoping many ripples would create a wave,” Moore said. “In February of 2021, inspired by Valentine’s Day, I wanted to touch the lives of our most vulnerable population with some heartfelt, handmade love.”
Moore’s idea sparked a city-wide Valentine’s Day card drive for older and disabled adults living in Laguna and Orange County long- inventing new gold colors. This exhibition features displays to excite audiences of all ages and share the magical world of the jewelry arts,” Neeley said.
Neeley skillfully combines traditional goldsmith techniques with cutting-edge technologies to transform precious metals and gemstones into wearable masterpieces. His unparalleled designs draw inspiration from the diverse shapes and colors found in the natural world, a passion ignited during his childhood rock-collecting adventures.
Neeley studied under master goldsmiths
in Italy, honing his craft and developing a distinctive style, earning him international acclaim and prestigious awards in the jewelry industry. Throughout years of experimentation, Neeley developed the SpectraGold technique, a new process involving transitioning one color of gold into another. Achieved through a meticulous forging process, this technique produces a subtle gradient, or ombré, of color—from yellow gold to white gold and beyond. Neeley’s innovation and his
Laguna Beach recently installed temporary skate ramps at the Community & Recreation Center as part of a pilot program. Photo courtesy of the City of Laguna Beach
LAM, PAGE 1
Local attorney Meldie Moore with last year’s Valentine’s Day cards. Photo/Moore Law for Children
VALENTINE, PAGE 3
creation of entirely new gold colors evoke the essence of a modern-day alchemist.
“Adam Neeley’s Modern Alchemy is a testament to the transformative power of art. Neeley’s ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with his original SpectraGold technique will take you on a journey where each piece becomes a unique expression of alchemical beauty,” said Julie Perlin
Lee, executive director of the Laguna Art Museum. “We are excited to present Modern Alchemy as the first-ever decorative arts show at Laguna Art Museum.”
Modern Alchemy delves into the creative processes of this visionary jeweler, showcasing Neeley’s techniques and the use of raw and faceted gems and minerals in his art. Collaborating with world-class
lapidaries, including Stephen Avery, Neeley crafts imaginative pieces that transcend contemporary designs, transporting admirers into a realm of dreams and fantasy inspired by his boundless imagination and the world around him. Adam Neeley truly stands as a twenty-first-century alchemist, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression in the realm of jewelry.
Neeley has received multiple awards in the jewelry industry, including 13 AGTA Spectrum Awards, 2 AGTA Cutting Edge Awards, 11 MJSA Vision Awards, 2 Tahitian Pearl Trophies and 2 President’s Trophies. Additionally, he has been honored with a Vision Award from the CPAA, a Saul Bell Design Award and has earned over a dozen top-of-category and Best of Show recognitions at prestigious fine art shows across the United States. As a American Jewelry Design Council member, Neeley collaborates with other leading American designers to elevate jewelry into an art form. His piece “South Sea Glow” is a part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection.
Neeley’s jewelry is also on display at his local showroom in Laguna Beach at 352 North Coast Highway Laguna Beach, CA 92651. Available for viewing by appointment Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about Modern Alchemy, visit lagunaartmuseum.org.
Valentine
PAGE 1
term care facilities. The campaign, co-sponsored by the Council on Aging Southern California, generated over 1,000 handmade Valentine’s Day cards in its first year.
“In 2022, we doubled that number with over 2,000 cards,” Moore said. “Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and students in all of the Laguna Beach schools helped, as well as members of the Laguna Beach community. And last year, we doubled that number and received over 4,000 cards.”
“Please join us in our Valentine’s Day card project this year to make an impact and let these lonely seniors know they are valued, loved and not forgotten. We want to increase our production from last year. The goal is over 4,000 cards,” Moore said.
The deadline to drop off the cards at the Moore Law Firm for Children is Thursday, Feb. 1. The firm is located at 361 Forest Avenue, Suite 201, second floor, Laguna Beach. The cards may also be dropped off at Council on Aging –Southern California, 2 Executive Circle, Suite 175, Irvine, CA 92614. Moore Law for Children welcomes photos of card-making volunteers during the creative process or their finished creations. The shared photos will be posted on the law firm’s Facebook page, www.facebook. com/MooreLawOC/.
For more details, email Reception@ MooreLawOC.com or call (949) 336-7711
Modern Alchemy, an exhibition showcasing the fusion of art, nature, and innovation in the jewelry designs of the renowned designer Adam Neeley, will be on view from Feb. 17 through July 29. Photo courtesy of LAM
The South Laguna Community Garden Park is accepting new members
The South Laguna Community Garden Park is once again accepting applications for new members.
The Garden maintains 52 plots measuring six by eight feet, the perfect size for a family or friends to share. The Garden welcomes all levels of gardeners, and if you need help with amending, choosing plants, or anything else, its knowledgeable volunteers are ready to offer assistance. Joining the Garden is a great way to meet neighbors, contribute to the community, and improve health. Beds generally rent quickly. For more information, visit SouthLagunaGarden.org, email GardenPark@SouthLaguna.org, or call (949) 228-8690.
Barbara Metzger’s Celebration of Life this Saturday
A Celebration of Life will be held for Laguna Beach historian and longtime community advocate Barbara Metzger on Saturday, Jan. 20 at 1:30 p.m. at the Neighborhood Congregational Church, 340 St. Ann’s Drive, Laguna Beach. All are welcome.
Town Crier
IN AND AROUND LAGUNA BEACH
Susi Q’s Evening With An Author to feature Pulitzer Prize-winner Hector Tobar
Susi Q’s next Evening With An Author will feature Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and novelist Héctor Tobar, the author of six books, most recently, “Our Migrant Souls: A Meditation on Race and the Meanings and Myths of Latino,” published by MCD/Farrar, Straus & Giroux.
The New York Times calls “Our
CRIER, PAGE 13
Graham, the great grandson of South Laguna Community Garden Park founders Morrie and Barb Granger inspects a pumpkin. The garden is currently accepting new member applications. Photo courtesy of the Garden Park
Novelist Hector Tobar will be featured at the Susi Q’s upcoming Evening with an Author series. Photo/Hector Tobar
Letters
LETTERS CAN BE MAILED TO: EDITOR@LBINDY.COM
Bulldozed Road at Top of the
The Board of Directors of Laguna Canyon Conservancy understands that Laguna Beach City Council recently met with Southern California Edison (SCE) regarding the pole replacement project that has carved through our open space below the north end of Alta Laguna Boulevard, and behind upper Park Avenue. We urge you to hold SCE to the strictest environmental standards from this point forward, and to be in compliance with all protocols and California State laws protecting open space prior to resuming the project.
Based on the fact that helicopters have been used for multiple reasons in and around wilderness park areas and open spaces, including to replace telephone poles, we feel the destruction to habitat that has already taken place was unnecessary and that there could have been other less invasive ways to accomplish their goals.
We also urge the council to make sure the mitigation and rehabilitation of this parcel is full and complete. We suggest that there be oversight by both the city and representation of local environmental groups as SCE resumes both phases of this project.
As you know, this parcel of land was dedicated as open space in 1982 in perpetuity as protected open space.
The Board of Directors is aware and appreciative of the City Council’s dedication to keeping Laguna Beach’s open spaces wild and green.
Gayle Waite, Laguna Canyon Conservancy President
15 years since Obama’s first inauguration
I can’t believe it will be 15 years tomorrow since Barack Obama took the oath of office. Knowing how historic his inauguration was going to be, 25 of my Laguna friends and I began planning a special black-tie
reception at [seven-degrees] a week after Obama was elected in November of 2008.
And what an event it was. First, the dressed-up crowd of 300 guests were in a very joyous mood. Second, gospel music was provided by a seven-member choir from Irvine’s Christ Our Redeemer AME Church. That was followed by the reading of a poem created especially for the evening, and then upbeat tunes were performed by Soulfood locals Robert, Bara and Paul. Lastly, I had the honor of reminding everyone our votes really did count ... and that we all had done something truly memorable.
Today, we are entering another presidential election year. Clearly, there are going to be bumps in the road between now and next November. My hope is the winning candidate will do everything possible to unite all Americans. I’m sure this is what Barack Obama hopes will happen as well.
Denny Freidenrich, Laguna Beach
LAGUNA LOCALS LIST!
theIndyPoll
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION
Would you consider yourself knowledgable on California Environmental Quality Act?
- Yes, 31% (19 votes)
- No, 68.9% (30 votes)
TOTAL VOTES - 49
THIS WEEK’S QUESTION
Should the city of Laguna Beach take steps to aquire Laguna Canyon Road from CalTrans for project improvements?
- Yes - No
TO VOTE, VISIT THE POLL TAB AT LAGUNABEACHINDY.COM. SUBMIT POLL QUESTIONS TO CLARA@FIREBRANDMEDIAINC.COM. The LagunaBeachIndy.com poll is conducted using Crowd Signal polling software.
block duplicate votes by cookie and IP address.
cannot control
Jan. 22 - Environmental Sustainability Committee Meeting at 6 p.m. Jan. 23 - City Council Meeting at 5 p.m.
Alex
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
SECOND AND FOURTH THURSDAYS, 5 PM
LOUIS WEIL: lweil@lagunabeachcity.net
KRISTINE THALMAN: kthalman@lagunabeachcity.net
DON SHERIDAN: dsheridan@lagunabeachcity.net
JESSICA GANNON: jgannon@lagunabeachcity.net
TOM GIBBS: tgibbs@lagunabeachcity.net
PLANNING COMMISSION
1ST AND 3RD WEDNESDAYS, 6 PM
STEVEN KELLENBERG, steve@kellenbergstudio.com
KEN SADLER: 616-0517, ken.sadler@cox.net
JORG DUBIN: 497-2618, jdubinart@cox.net
STEVE GOLDMAN: 203-554-2290, steveg415@ymail.com
SUSAN McLINTOCK WHITIN: 838-6317, whitinsusan@gmail.com
lagunabeachcity.net
OTHER ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES: REP. KATIE PORTER,, 1113 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515. 202-225-2415 ASSEMBLYWOMAN DIANE DIXON, 19712 MacArthur Blvd. Ste. 150, Irvine, CA 92612. 949-251-0074 FIFTH DISTRICT SUPERVISOR KATRINA FOLEY
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OUR LETTER POLICY
E-mail letters to: Clara@firebrandmediainc.com
Letters strengthen community ties and provide a community forum open to all. Due to space constraints we ask letter writers to limit their topics to local concerns, make their submissions exclusive to the Indy alone and be of 400 words or less. Letters should be submitted by Tuesday, 5 p.m. They may be edited for clarity, length or appropriateness as needed. We decline to publish letters that we perceive as personal attacks, even of public figures. We strive for civil discourse over ideas and issues, not personalities. Letter writers must supply their name and contact information. Published letters will only use the writer’s name and city of residence. E-mail letters are preferred.
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Who You Work With Matters
Heidi Cleveland
“Heidi went above and beyond our expectations to make the whole process of listing, promoting and selling our home smooth and successful. She is very knowledgeable about the local market and had creative ideas about how best to market our home to sell quickly for the best price. She was skilled in responding to whatever arose and always a joy to work with throughout. We highly recommend Heidi!” - JANET S.
In Escrow
432 Shadow Lane, Laguna Beach
$2,495,000 | 3BR, 2BA, | Approx. 1,008sf | Approx. 3,576sf Lot | Web# LG23194642
Ideally situated just blocks from the ocean on one of the most desirable streets in the Village, this charming cottage embodies the best of the Laguna Beach lifestyle. Warmth and character abound, with three bedrooms, two baths, a loft area with an ocean view, and hardwood floors throughout. Enjoy views of the landscaped front yard and a wood-burning fireplace from the open living and kitchen area. The primary bedroom suite offers privacy as well as access to the peaceful and spacious backyard, ideal for relaxing. A newer roof, updated bathrooms, and central air conditioning add convenience to this enchanting home. World-class restaurants, art galleries, and stunning beaches are just minutes away from this coveted location.
Call today for a market update or confidential valuation of your home.
Heidi Cleveland
Realtor ® | DRE# 01956319
M 949.371.4333 | O 949.270.0440
heidi.cleveland@elliman.com
elliman.com
GUEST OPINION: DEAR SUSI Q
Pondering a Question from a Four-Year-Old
By LynETTE BRasFIELD
Q: Grandma, how did you get so old?
A (somewhat) tongue-in-cheek answer from Grandma Lynette
Luck, my dear Gwynn, just luck. First of all, I was born! The odds of
that are just 1 in 400 trillion. (Oh, you can only count up to 50, Gwynn? That’s okay. Trust Grandma, 400 trillion is a lot!)
Funnily enough, wars have quite a bit to do with my birth. You see, one of my ancestors in Scotland was a blacksmith. Not only were blacksmiths usually strong, healthy men – because they had to “smite” (hence smith), metal into shape – but they
were often spared from being sent to war and possibly dying in combat. That’s because their skills were needed at home to hammer steel into weapons. So they lived long enough to have lots and lots of children.
It’s also why there are so many people named Smith in the world.
Then, in 1948, my Glaswegian dad, Alexander Robertson Shanks, returned to Cape Town, where his merchant navy ship had been berthed during the Second World War. There, he met my mother, Dorothy Lilian Carr.
They married, and I was born in 1955. My journey to dotage had begun!
Of course, not all my ancestors were lucky. One of them died when a bulldozer ran over him. He was remembered as Crushed Thomas. (The Scots have a dour, sometimes macabre sense of humor.) That’s the downside of not getting old, you see.
Aging certainly takes years and years of practice. Then, one day, you look in the mirror, and voila! No more need to practice. You’re ancient! I rather like being old. You learn something new every day. For example, wrinkles are like a personal etcha-sketch. Each morning, when you look in the mirror, there’s a whole new pattern to check out! It’s also fascinating when you wake up with an ache or two to discover that there are parts of your body you hardly knew existed when you were young. And people are so friendly. You get called things like “dear” and “honey” and “OK Boomer.”
BY Murray Horwitz & Richard Maltby Jr.
AND LYRICS BY Fats Waller
BY Yvette Freeman
Remember when we went to Adventure City, and the Giggle Ferris Wheel went around and up, and how awesome it was when we reached the top of the cycle?
Being old is kind of like that. You’re the same person you always were, but you see things from a different, broader perspective. The ride can be bumpy, but for the most part, it’s a blast, at least for us lucky ones.
So that’s my wish for you, Gwynn. That you’ll have a wonderful ride for a very long time, just as I am having –and one day a granddaughter as funny and sweet as you are.
Oh, and my favorite stanza from You Are Old, Father William, by Lewis Carroll)
“You are old,” said the youth; one would hardly suppose
That your eye was as steady as ever; Yet you balanced an eel on the end of your nose —
What made you so awfully clever?”
The Susi Q adds to the fun with programs that offer art, writing, music, opera and other fabulous diversions. We also offer great resources to help with legal, financial, transportation, technological, and medical needs. And if you want to explore some of the reasons YOU were born, explore your past by joining our Ancestry Club! For more information visit www.thesusiq.org.
Sports/Schools
SUBMISSIONS WELCOME BY 5 PM TUESDAY
By Frank Aronoff | LB Indy WINTER SPORTS UPDATE
LBHS junior Kara Carver created the winning play against Newport Harbor last Tuesday and was recognized at the Santa Barbara TOC with All-Tournament honors. She leads the team in steals, #2 in scoring and #2 assists. Photo courtesy of Laguna Girls Water Polo.
GIRLS WATER POLO (10-9,
2-1)
Laguna Upsets Newport in Surf League Showdown
Kara Carver pulled a final-minute steal, drew and exclusion, then tossed a pass to a wide-open Ava Knepper, who fired a quick goal to secure a 10-9 double-overtime victory over the host Sailors at the Newport pool this past Wednesday, Jan. 16. Newport had one last possession before time expired, but their off-shot attempt bounced off the cage post in the closing seconds. With the victory, Laguna is on track to earning a share of the Sunset Surf League title and the program’s first since 2021 and 18th overall.
Laguna gave up an early goal in the opening quarter to Newport but proceeded to build a 4-1 lead before Newport tied the game midway through the second period at 4-4. The tough defense by both teams limited the shots, and the officiating allowed a very physical game. Laguna scored the only goals in the third period with a toss by Presley Jones and Knepper, but Newport battled back to tie the contest with 3:31 remaining in the final period and countered Laguna’s last-minute goal by Carver to tie the contest in the closing seconds.
Overtime starts with two mandatory three-minute periods before going to three-minute sudden-death periods.
Newport scored twice in the first overtime, taking a 9-8 lead into the second overtime. Carver scored on Laguna’s first possession to tie the game at 9-9. Newport’s next two tries were stopped on a field block by Presley Jones and by a poor shot that hit the goal cage top bar. Newport’s third try was spoiled by
the Carver steal and the subsequent Laguna goal.
Last weekend, Laguna played tough defense in going 2-2 at the Santa Barbara TOC, finishing sixth overall with all the top 10 teams participating. Breakers opened the annual event, defeating San Clemente 10-6 with the team playing the entire squad in the game played on Friday afternoon at Dos Pueblos High School. That evening, Laguna battled CIF #2 Foothill before losing 8-7 on a late goal. Knepper led the team with four goals against the Knights.
Saturday, the Breakers defeated Oaks Christian 14-11, with Knepper scoring three goals and tossing five assists. Emerson Hensley drew five exclusions, while Carver drew two five-meter penalties that Knepper was able to score on. Carver scored seven goals in the win. In the afternoon game, Laguna was missing Knepper and lost to Newport 10-8 in a game Newport led almost all the way. Carver was selected to the All-Tournament team.
Final standings: 1 – Orange Lutheran, 2 – Foothill, 3 – Mater Dei, 4 – San Marcos, 5 – Newport, 6 – Laguna, 7 – Oaks Christian, 8 –Long Beach Wilson, 9 – Bishop’s/La Jolla, 10 – Corona del Mar, 11 – San Clemente, 12 – Los Alamitos, 13 –Dos Pueblos, 14 – Downey, 15 – Alta Loma, 16 – Mira Costa.
The last major in-season tournament is Jan. 25-27 at Newport.
Statistical Leaders [19 games] Goals: 64 – Ava Knepper, Assists: 34 – Presley Jones, Steals: 39 – Kara Carver, Drawn Exclusions: 38 –Emerson Hensley. Saves: 122 – Siena Jumani.
BOYS
BASKETBALL (11-11, 0-2)
The Breakers were competitive but fell short in a pair of conference games, falling 60-53 to Marina on Jan. 10 and 54-46 to Corona del Mar on Jan. 12. Against the Vikings, Dylan McEachern scored 32 in the game while Jack Halvorson scored 15 in the Wave League opening contest at Dugger Gym. Jack Halvorson scored 19 points at Corona del Mar, including five 3-point shots, while Dylan McEachern added 13 and Ryan Cheng 10.
Upcoming home games: Tuesday, Jan. 30, against Corona del Mar, and Thursday, Feb. 1, against Huntington Beach.
GIRLS BASKETBALL (7-14, 1-2)
Laguna split their league games, defeating Newport Harbor 45-31 on Jan. 11, with Alex Grombchevsky scoring 14 points and Kate Cheng 12 in the win. Lily Alvarado had 13 rebounds. On Jan. 16, Marina (3-0, 14-8) swamped the squad 50-32. Last Saturday, Jan. 13, the team lost to Valley View/Moreno Valley 47-38
in a showcase game played at Norco High School. Kate Cheng scored 19 against the Eagles.
BOYS SOCCER (4-9-1, 1-1-0)
The Breakers kept their playoff chances alive with a 3-1 win at Marina on Jan. 12. Laguna scored off a shot by Dylan Petrie-Norris and two scores by Jaxson Hutcheon. Earlier in league play, the Breakers were trashed 6-1 by Huntington Beach (4-6-1, 2-0) on Jan. 10 at Guyer Field. Laguna finished the first round of league play on Jan. 17 with Fountain Valley, then play two non-league games with matches at Corona del Mar on Jan. 19 and Edison on Jan. 24. The second round of league play starts with Huntington on Jan. 26. The last home game is Jan. 29 with Marina.
GIRLS SOCCER (8-4-1, 1-1-0)
Laguna split their league matches, losing 2-0 to Corona del Mar (3-0, 11-4-1) but surprising Fountain Valley 2-1 on Jan. 16 at the Baron’s campus. Laguna played Huntington Beach on Jan. 18 and Los Alamitos on Jan. 23 in a pair of non-league contests before returning to league play at Edison on Jan. 25.
WRESTLING (1-1)
Laguna dropped their league match to Marina 48-26. Individual wrestler results were not provided. The final dual match was Jan. 17 with Edison.
ALUMNI Notes:
Reilyn Turner, the most decorated Laguna soccer player, was recently drafted #6 overall in the recent National Women’s Soccer League player draft by Louisville. Turner was a 4-year star at UCLA, finishing her career as the fifth all-time career scorer for the Bruins. At Laguna, she was an All-CIF selection, Orange Coast League Player of the Year. The local teams in the Women’s Pro League are Angel City, which plays at BMO Stadium next to USC, and the San Diego Wave, which plays at Snapdragon Stadium at San Diego State.
Have a note/question on Laguna sports/correction/update? E-mail Frank at fa1949@cox.net. Looking for the 2023-24 High School schedules and scores? Check Laguna Beach High School on the Max Preps website.
Top of the World Neighborhood Association Seats New Board Members
By LB Indy Staff
The Top of the World Neighborhood Association, a Laguna Beach neighborhood advocacy group, elected five new members to its board during its January meeting.
Peter Cole, Sally Costanzo, Chris Gourdal, Michelle Highberg and Annie Sadler were voted in as new members, and reelected were Duane Allee, Carol Buss, Gene Felder, Kris
Howson, Karen Schwager, Carey Strombotne, Tim Templeton and Scott Woodard.
Gene Felder will serve as Top of the World Neighborhood Association President, the vice president is Michelle Highberg, and Annie Sadler has taken the position of secretary. The treasurer is Peter Cole.
PAGE 14
Laguna’s Wrestling team defeated Edison 42-32 this past Wednesday at Dugger Gym to finish second in the Sunset Wave League. The Breakers had defeated Huntington Beach earlier this season. Photo courtesy of Laguna Beach athletics
Street Beat
EXCERPTS FROM POLICE LOGS
Thursday, Jan. 11
DUI. Teri Lynn Johnsonperea, 57, of Mission Viejo was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and blowing on or over 0.08 percent blood alcohol level. She was held on $20,000 bail. Bench warrant. Edgar Alexis Zavalaponce, 24, of Santa Ana was arrested on suspicion of and outstanding bench warrant. His bail information wasn’t immediately available.
Friday, Jan. 12
Disorderly conduct. Roxana Gallegos Valdovinos, 41, of Huntington Beach was arrested on suspicion of alcohol-related disorderly conduct. She was held on $500 bail.
Saturday, Jan. 13
Petty theft from building. Jason Michael Adams, 49, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of petty theft from a building. He was held on
$500 bail.
Sunday, Jan. 14
Disorderly conduct. Jacob Dylan Dejesus, 22, of Dana Point was arrested on suspicion of alcohol related disorderly conduct. He was held on $500 bail.
Monday, Jan. 15
Probation violation. Jason Mathew Shaw, 33, of Grand Terrace was arrested on suspicion of felony probation violation. He was held without bail.
Tuesday, Jan. 16
Bench warrant. Skylar Lee McAlexander, 32, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of an outstanding bench warrant. He was held on $10,000 bail.
GUEST OPINION: MUSINGS FROM THE COAST
The Civility Hypocrisy
By mIChaEL Ray
Just to torture myself, I sometimes tune into City Council meeting videos.
Friends recommended that I tune into the meeting on Nov. 21, 2023, and begin watching at the 2.25-hour mark.
Reason: the sheer hypocrisy demonstrated by Village Laguna (VL) at the meeting over the methodology of selecting Mayor and Mayor Pro Temp positions.
Currently, each is elected by the Council and serves for two years. If the Council wishes to vote the same two back into those positions the next
time, it can. There is no automatic rotation.
During former councilman Peter Blake’s term in office, he was not what one would call “civil.” In fact, he ran on the platform, “If you want civility, don’t vote for me.” And he wasn’t. He interrupted speakers, called out others, and so on. But he never cost the City any money, and he pushed through a series of long-needed reforms.
Those reforms overturned many of VL’s suffocating rules (most prominent: the downtown Promenade, wildly popular yet opposed by VL, which had killed it for decades—and still is trying to kill it), and they disliked Blake for pushing the reforms through.
So, they went after him with the viciousness of what they are: in my research - a registered Political Action Committee that had controlled Laguna for decades, used questionable tactics, and intimidated locals so thoroughly that no one wanted to oppose them. Until Blake ran.
At almost every Council meeting during Blake’s term, VL members and acolytes appeared constantly to
RAY, PAGE 14
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Planning Commission
City Hall Council Chambers at 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at 6:00 PM
e CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH will hold a public hearing on the request below. You may participate in-person at City Hall or virtually on Zoom.
Case No.: Coastal Development Permit 23-2226
Address: Park Avenue between Wendt Terrace and Alta Laguna Boulevard
Applicant: Josh McDonald, Associate Civil Engineer, (949) 497-0728, jmcdonald@lagunabeachcity.net
Property Owner: City of Laguna Beach Application Filing Date: May 23, 2023
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: e Public Works Department requests a Coastal Development Permit for mobility improvements on Park Avenue between Wendt Terrace and Alta Laguna Boulevard, including implementation of a dedicated bike lane, recon guration of vehicle travel lanes, and on-street parking modi cations.
COASTAL ZONE: is project is located within a non-appealable area of the Coastal Zone.
CEQA: Sta recommends the Planning Commission determine that the proposed project is categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, Section 15304 - Minor Alterations to Land, in that the project consists of minor alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic trees.
MORE INFORMATION: e property is not required to be staked with story poles. e agenda packet will be available on the City’s website the ursday before the public hearing (https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/live-here/city-council/meetings-agendas-and-minutes) and at the Community Development Department public counter during the following hours: Monday – Friday: 7:30am – 3:00pm, closed alternating Fridays.
HOW TO COMMENT: If you have any comments or concerns about the proposed project, please communicate those thoughts in writing to Josh McDonald, Associate Civil Engineer at jmcdonald@lagunabeachcity.net or by phone at (949) 497-0728 or submit to the Community Development Department located at 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. Comments may also be made via teleconferencing during the Public Hearing from a computer, iPad or smart phone or in-person in the Council Chambers.
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with a disability who require a disabilityrelated modi cation or accommodation to participate in a meeting may request such modi cation or accommodation from the Zoning Division at (949) 497-0329. Noti cation 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to the meeting.
Pursuant to California Government Code Section 65009(b), if you challenge this application in court, the issues raised shall be limited to those raised in the public hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the public agency prior to, or at, the public hearing.
GUEST OPINION: GREEN LIGHT
Greening Laguna via the Orange County Power Authority
By Tom osBoRnE
Would you like electricity that is cleaner and two percent cheaper than Edison offers? Would you like Laguna to join with the more than 200 other California cities and counties that run on a higher mix of renewable (non-fossil fuel) energy than that offered by the utility monopolies— Pacific Gas and Electric, Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric? If you answered yes to both questions, please email (CityCouncil@lagunabeachcity.net) our City Council of your support for Community Choice Energy/Aggregation via our town joining the Orange County Power Authority (OCPA).
A video appearing on that entity’s website features OCPA vice chair, Dr. Kathleen Treseder, distinguished UC Irvine biologist and climate researcher, telling viewers humanity has until 2030 to reduce carbon emissions dramatically to avoid the worst impacts of a warming planet. To combat climate change, she said, is why she ran for the Irvine City Council recently (she won her seat), and that’s also why she simultaneously serves as vice-chair of the OCPA. In the video, Dr. Treseder reports that in Irvine, large developers and other major business interests are strongly supportive of CCE and OCPA. They like the savings on their electricity bills while helping the environment at the same time.
Recently, I emailed attorney Joe Mosca, interim CEO of OCPA, asking for any updates on the not-for-profit clean energy-providing organization he leads that is headquartered in our county’s greenest city, Irvine. The updates sent me a note that the prestigious National Renewable Energy Laboratory, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, designated OCPA as a Top U.S. Green Power Provider in 2023. That’s not all. The Asian Business Association of Orange County honored OCPA
as the Sustainability Advocate of the Year. Similarly, the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce bestowed its Elevate award on OCPA for empowering and supporting the Filipino business community.
OCPA’s accolades result from the service provided to its member communities, which include Buena Park, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, and Irvine.
This amounts to more than 31,000 commercial customers and 200,000 residential ratepayers. Of these, some 188,000 customers have chosen 100 percent renewable energy. The clean electricity purchased by these customers is estimated to have prevented 709 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, thanks to this high-performing agency. So, while saving on electricity bills, OCPA ratepayers effectively combat climate change at the local level.
Our family in Laguna Beach has been taking steps for more than a decade to minimize our carbon footprint. Since 2014, we have driven an electric car that is powered by our solar rooftop panels. A year ago, we replaced our gas stove with an induction range. Several days ago, we replaced our gas furnace with an electric heat pump that provides warmth in the winter and cool air
in the summer. Also, we eat mainly plant-based foods and largely avoid single-use plastic bottles. In short, we try and sometimes fail to do our part in combatting the climate crisis. I say this because as important as these individual and family efforts are, they won’t get us even close to the fifty percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 that the leading climate scientists claim is necessary to avoid the worst consequences of a warming planet.
To meet that 2030 goal, nothing short of public policies will suffice. Putting a national price on carbon, say the leading scientists, is the fastest, surest way to dramatically reduce emissions. Even that won’t be enough. Still, Community Choice Energy/Aggregation, along with a carbon price, would take us and the next generations a long way toward a livable climate.
Based on what I’ve heard from Council member Alex Rounaghi and his colleagues on the panel, City Hall seems likely to decide on OCPA membership this year. Let’s let them know our support.
Tom Osborne is an environmental historian and journalist. He and his wife, Ginger, co-lead the Laguna chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, which advocates for a carbon price. tomosborne@cox.net.
DID YOU KNOW?
Albertsons Shady Canyon
Albertsons UCI
ALDI
Amazon DC Irvine/FC UCA4
Bristol Farms Newport Beach
Bristol Farms Spectrum
COSTCO Laguna Niguel
COSTCO Tustin
Gelson's Laguna Beach
Gelson’s Newport Beach Mother's Market
Pavilions Balboa
Pavilions Laguna Beach
Pavilions Newport Beach
Pavilions Newport Coast
Ralphs Laguna Beach
Ralphs Laguna Hills
Ralphs Newport Beach
Westcliff
Trader Joe's Crystal Cove
Trader Joe's Laguna Hills
Whole Foods Laguna Beach and
OBITUARY: Ann Lester Farris
Ann Lester Farris, age 88, a longtime resident of Laguna Beach, passed away on November 18, 2023. She was born Elizabeth Ann Lester in Houston, Texas, in 1935.
Ann moved to Laguna Beach in 1962 with her two young daughters. Arriving in California from Houston, the three of them got off the train in the middle of an orange grove in Fullerton. From there, they were whisked off to Laguna and the ‘Tower House’ on No. La Senda. Just a few months later, they moved to a rental on Myrtle Street for $100 a month. On Saturday, they would walk to Trotters Bakery on Forest for a special doughnut, then back home along Heisler Park.
Ann had a little Hillman Minx car, and she and her daughters thrilled driving up and down steep 3rd Street. The three climbed the hill in South Laguna before there was ever a Valido Trail. She took her daughters to Yosemite, Sequoia, the Grand Canyon, art museums, and, of course, to the many beautiful beaches.
Ann was drawn to artists, writers and other creative people. She had an innate appreciation for art and beauty in the world. She loved Laguna and her last home there more than any place else on earth.
Ann was adventurous, a go-getter, and she lived a full and wonderful life.
Ann was preceded in death by a beautiful grandchild. She is survived by her devoted husband of 35 years, James Farris of Laguna Beach. She is also survived by her eldest daughter of Laguna Beach, her youngest daughter, Jenny DeBaun Howard, and her husband, Tom, of Petaluma, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Each of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren loved Ann as “Nonnie.”
There will be an Open House Celebration of Life at Ann’s cherished South Laguna home on January 25, 2024 from 1 to 3 p.m.
PAID ANNOUNCEMENT
GUEST OPINION:
Laguna’s Biggest Financial Challenge
By John Thomas
Considering the Strategic Planning the city is currently doing, the question arises: Is this the year that Laguna Beach confronts and addresses its biggest financial challenge?
A large share of the taxes that residents pay are not used to pay for services or capital improvements that directly benefit residents but are diverted to cover the substantial costs the city incurs due to the high number of visitors to Laguna.
A 2017 report showed that, at that time, revenue the city received that was attributable to tourists was $23 million less than the added costs the city incurred due to those visitors.
Since then, the city budget and visitors have grown, so the shortage is likely much greater today.
City leaders and staff have acknowledged this problem, and despite some early efforts, there has been little progress made by residents and visitors in reducing this large subsidy.
distance of the beaches while allowing residents to continue to park for free in residential neighborhoods.
Alternatives would be to either raise taxes on residents, lower the level of city services provided by the city government or borrow a lot of money.
The solution with the biggest potential revenue impact could be a revised business license fee focused on tourist-focused businesses. Though only a small percentage of visitors stay in Laguna hotels and pay hotel tax, approximately 70% of visitors to Laguna spend on food and beverages in town. This means that Laguna’s tourist-focused restaurants are a key point of contact with visitors, and these businesses are an opportunity to create a collection mechanism for visitor revenue to cover visitor costs. These bars and restaurants could be the stars in this effort, Laguna’s toll booth. A business license fee based on 1% of the gross revenue of these restaurants could currently generate over $4 million per year for the city government, and a very high proportion of this revenue would come from the visitors patronizing these restaurants. With time, a visitor-targeted business license fee could slowly increase from one percent to a maximum of 5% over five years and could eventually cover perhaps 60% of the current imbalance.
The revised fees could be designed to have little or no change for primarily resident-serving businesses. And fees for smaller businesses could be much lower than for the larger tourist-focused businesses. As is, our business license fees are among the lowest in California, so there is substantial room to adjust this fee without being out of line.
Now is the time to act. The City Council could put a measure on the November 2024 ballot to narrow the gap between revenue and visitor costs. The number of ambitious and costly items currently under discussion by the City Council makes it even more important to reduce the visitor subsidy. The aggregate cost of some of these items could exceed hundreds of millions of dollars. Without correcting the drain on city revenue due to visitor costs, it will be financially challenging for the city to proceed with even the most important projects.
Three of the best possibilities for generating meaningful amounts of revenue for the city are:
1. An adjustment in the business license fee structure that increases city revenue from the most tourist-focused businesses.
2. Revising the current hotel tax to be on par with one-third of Orange County hotels.
3. Expanding pay parking for nonresidents to areas within walking
A second way to generate revenue from visitors is to expand pay parking for nonresidents to areas throughout the city within walking distance of the beaches while allowing residents to continue to park for free in residential neighborhoods.
The third way could be to update Laguna’s current 12% hotel tax to match the third of the hotel rooms in Orange County that charge 15%.
As a top Orange County visitor destination, it seems only fair that Laguna’s total hotel tax should align with other top Orange County tourist destinations.
Combining the redesigned business license fee with an increased hotel tax and expanded paid parking areas could, in time, cover more than 75% of the overall shortage, thereby reducing the subsidy of residents to visitors, leaving more city revenue available to serve residents, and freeing up funds for the many projects on the city
Migrant Souls” “a resonant and deeply affecting book.” In the best-selling book, Guatemalan-born Tobar, an English and Chicano/ Latino Studies professor at the University of California, Irvine, explores what it means to be “Latino” in the United States in 2024.
Podcaster and arts columnist Marrie Stone will be in conversation with Tobar and anticipates an informative and lively discussion.
“We’re living through dark times, and 2024 is poised to be another difficult year. What gives me hope, and the only path I can see through this mess, is making authentic human connections and having meaningful conversations about race, class, and the ‘great American experiment,’” Stone said. “This offers that opportunity.”
The Evening With An Author takes place on Tuesday, Feb. 13. The event will start with mingling, snacks and wine at 4:30 p.m. The program begins at 5 p.m. and ends at 7 p.m. with book signings. The cost is $40, which includes a copy of Tobar’s most recent book, “Our Migrant Souls.”
Register online for the event at www.thesusiq.org. To RSVP by phone, call 949-715-8105 or email christineb@thesusiq.org. The Susi Q Center is located at 380 Third Street, Laguna Beach.
The Susi Q offers a wide range of educational and fun programs, classes and clubs for older adults –though all ages are welcome. The Susi Q’s Care Management Department provides free consultation, education and practical resources for vulnerable seniors, enabling them to stay safe, informed, and independent. For more information on The Susi Q, the portal to access the best of Laguna’s community resources, visit www. thesusiq.org.
Pruning workshop for healthy and beautiful plants - NEW DATE
Is pruning judged by the number of branches chopped off and hauled away or by the beautiful and safe tree form resulting at the end of the day?
You will learn the beautiful and safe approach at the next South Laguna Community Garden Park workshop on Saturday, Jan. 27, at 9 a.m. Participation is free. Reservations are requested. RSVP at GardenPark@southlaguna.org.
Gilbert Briseño, master tree artist and landscape contractor, will demonstrate pruning for the health and beauty of trees and shrubs while considering each plant’s role in the total landscape. He will demonstrate and give you an opportunity for hands-on learning while making the Garden Park more lovely. Bring your gloves, loppers and clippers. The garden park is located on 31610 Coast Highway.
‘All Pride, No Ego’: A book party in Laguna Beach
Jim Fielding, a former Laguna Beach resident and author of “All Pride, No Ego: A Queer Executive’s Journey to Living & Leading Authentically,” is having a book tour party on Thursday, Jan. 25, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Chris Tebbutt is co-hosting the evening, along with Michael Fullen and Sue Greenwood. The book party will be held at Sue Greenwood Fine Art, 330 N. Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach.
In “All Pride, No Ego: A Queer Executive’s Journey to Living and Leading Authentically,” celebrated corporate leader James Fielding delivers an inspirational leadership story told from the perspective of an out and proud LGBTQ+ executive. In the book, readers explore a call to action for authentic servant leadership that encourages people to own their truth and bring out the best in themselves and their communities.
Tickets Available for LBHS Theater Boosters January fundraising gala
Laguna Beach High School
Theater Boosters are hosting a gala on Jan. 20 at the Woman’s Club called A Night at the Copacabana, featuring former Laguna locals and special guests, Mark Waters, Director of Mean Girls, along with his wife, renowned actress, Dina Waters and a plethora of high school talent. Mark will conduct a Q&A session with the audience about his experience directing Mean Girls. The play adaptation of the movie is this school year’s theater spring musical, which has just been cast and will premiere in March 2024.
At the gala, dinner will be included, and a silent auction will be part of the festivities, along with some surprises. The gala promises to be a fun and memorable evening, with the feel of “A Night at the Copacabana” driving the decor and vibe. Please note that The Woman’s Club’s capacity is limited. Ticket information can be found at https://lbpab.org/ theatre.
The LBHS Theater Boosters is on a quest to raise funds for the theater program this year. Not since before COVID have they had any major fundraising efforts. They hope this year’s gala raises enough money to help supplement the costs of our theater director, Meghan Marshall’s wish for her students to attend three thespian festivals while bringing awareness of the program back to the community. As many may know, the high school theater program has a rich history of great entertainment and widespread community support. The Boosters are trying to restore the program to its former glory.
2/10 JOURNEY USA (J ourney
2/14 OTTMAR LIEBERT
& LUNA NEGRA
2/15 KARLA BONOFF
2/16 PRINCE AGAIN (P rin C
2/17 THE MOTELS
2/18 ALBERT CUMMINGS
2/22 SHAWN PHILLIPS
2/23 BEATLES VS STONES
2/24 DADA
2/25 KEN GARCIA
2/29 FOOZ FIGHTERS / PEARL JAMMED
3/1 G. LOVE & SPECIAL SAUCE
3/2 “2 E nglishm E n A bro A d ” A n e vening wi T h ROBERT FRIPP & DAVID SINGLETON
3/3 WALTER TROUT r
3/7 THE BODEANS
3/8 THE TUBES
3/9 SUPER DIAMOND
3/13 REVEREND HORTON HEAT
3/14 COLIN JAMES
3/15 THE FENIANS S
3/16 ARMAGEDDON (D ef
) MOTLEY 2 ( m o T ley C rue
3/23 THE HIGHWAYMAN SHOW
3/24 NELSON
3/28 HERMAN’S HERMITS
starring Peter Noone
3/29 HERMAN’S HERMITS
starring Peter Noone
3/30 WAYNE NEWTON
3/31 LYNCH MOB – The Final Ride
4/4 THE KINGSTON TRIO
4/5 ULI JON ROTH
4/6 RONSTADT REVIVAL
4/7 CINDERELLA’S TOM KEIFER
4/10 JOAN OSBORNE ACOUSTIC TRIO
4/11 JIMMIE VAUGHAN
4/12 ROGER CLYNE
& THE PEACEMAKERS
4/13 TINSLEY ELLIS
4/14 THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS
4/18 SPONGE
4/19 RICHIE FURAY
4/20 GEOFF TATE
4/21 VONDA SHEPARD
4/25 ISRAEL VIBRATION & Roots Radics
4/26 FIVE FOR FIGHTING wi T h S T ring Q u A r T e T
4/27 KIDS OF CHARLEMAGNE
5/5 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS
5/7 BLUES TRAVELER
5/9 CALIFORNIA GUITAR TRIO
5/15 MR BIG - T he b ig f ini S h T our
5/17 JOHN CRUZ
5/19 THE LETTERMEN 5/24 DSB (J ourney T ribu T e ) 5/31 YACHTY BY NATURE
6/14 AMBROSIA
6/16 ELVIN BISHOP Big Fun Trio
6/21
6/22 DESPERADO
6/29
7/6
7/20 Y&T
Crier
PAGE 13 Ray PAGE 10
January GLBGOP Members Meeting at Skyloft
The next GLBGOP’s Members’ Meeting is on Thursday, Jan. 25 at Skyloft. The group has two local candidates and a compelling speaker joining them. Guy Selleck is a candidate for California State Senate CA37 District. Selleck is a successful local businessman who will discuss why he is running and what he wants to accomplish. Janet Nguyen is a candidate for OC Supervisor in the First District. Nguyen is currently a State Senator and has previously served in the State Assembly, as an OC Supervisor and on the Garden Grove City Council. Violet Sarhad is also joining us. Sarhad is an immigrant from Iran who was politically active in her home country at a young age. She immigrated to the US with her mother after the 1979 revolution. The event starts at 5 p.m. with a social hour in the Main Bar. The meeting starts at 6 p.m. in the newly remodeled Herb’s Room. Attendees can mingle with fellow conservatives and enjoy Skyloft’s wonderful food and beverages. RSVP at www.glbgop.com/ upcomingevents.
The Honarkar Foundation to host Jorg Dubin Book Signing
The Honarkar Foundation is hosting a book signing for local artist Jorg Dubin next Sunday, Jan. 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The foundation has produced a 120-page catalog on Dubin’s current exhibition, Paintings from the 2000s, and the event will be a chance to celebrate the show and promote the book, which will be available for purchase. Dubin will be present to sign books and answer questions.
The Foundation will provide complimentary coffee served by Jedidiah Coffee and treats from Sidecar Donuts. The Honarkar Foundation for Arts & Culture is located at 298 Broadway Street, Laguna Beach.
criticize him for whatever reason they could dream up, but one stuck: he was not civil.
And it cost him his next election.
Elected instead, among others, was VL aficionado George Weiss. When running, Weiss’ biggest campaign tactic was to hire a giant truck with photos of high-rise buildings in Huntington Beach and accuse his opponents of wanting to turn Laguna Beach into another Huntington Beach. This, of course, was a lie, but VL did not care and backed him to the hilt. It worked. He won.
Before that, the City had hired a new City Manager, Shohreh Dupuis, who immediately set about doing her job: carrying out what the new city majority had voted as its new direction. VL and acolytes disliked her for it, wanted her out, and called in its political chits from Weiss. He responded with a campaign against her (Dupuis alleged name-calling, interruptions, false allegations, and more) that created what the lawyers call a “hostile working environment.” It cost the City $500,000 in an immediate cash settlement and much more later.
Let me repeat: Weiss caused it.
Village Laguna supported him.
Now Weiss wants to be mayor, and at the council meeting of November 21, 2023, proposed that the position be rotated so that he, unlike Blake, could become mayor.
Approximately eleven VL supporters, the people who called Blake so uncivil, spoke in favor of Weiss.
You could cut the hypocrisy with a dull knife.
Anne Caenn, President of VL, stated they support Weiss. Of course, they do. All that talk about Blake’s civility, or lack of it, was a charade. They could care less about civility.
As I stated before, in my exhaustive research, Village Laguna is a registered Political Action Committee that
controlled this joint for forty years. Now, they don’t. They want their power back. Nothing else matters.
Hypocrisy? So what.
Michael co-founded Orange County School of the Arts, The Discovery Cube, Sage Hill School, Art Spaces Irvine and several other area nonprofit organizations. He is a business partner with Sanderson-J. Ray Development and has lived in Laguna Beach since the early 1980s.
Thomas
PAGE 12
council priority list.
This is an election year. Now is the time for the City Council to act to close this huge financial gap and reduce the subsidy of visitors by residents. A solution will likely require a ballot measure. And a plan and ballot measure will take time to develop. Now is the time to get started, and the City Council needs to take action to do that.
John is a long-time Laguna Beach resident, business owner, former chair of the Laguna Beach Audit Review & Measure LL Oversight Committee, board member of the South Laguna Civic Association, and member of the South Laguna Water/Sewer Advisory Committee.
(The following is an abbreviated version of an email sent to City Council that provides a longer, more detailed explanation of ways the city can reduce the residents’ subsidy of the cost of visitors. The full version is available on the city website under the public comments section of the agenda for the 2024 Annual Planning Workshop which is also attached at the end of the agenda. – Editor’s note)
PAGE 9
“We thank Piero Wemyss, Chris Brazelton, Mark Mani, and Ursula Staubli for all their work and support over many years and know that we can count on their help in the future,” Felder said to the departing board members.
The association’s mission is to make the Top of the World neighborhood a safer and better place, and in doing so, the group has lobbied for an increased police presence in the Top of the World neighborhood, concerned that social media has attracted many more visitors in recent years, heightening the number of public safety incidents.
“The police department is to be congratulated for the recent arrest of burglary suspects,” board member Chris Gourdal said at the meeting.
The TOWNA Board is also lobbying to extend the hours of the on-demand shuttle serving the neighborhood.
“Laguna Local is a great city service that should be used and its hours extended if possible,” board member Kris Howson said.
The TOWNA Board encourages all who see illegal or suspicious activity to call the police department at its non-emergency number, 949-4970701. Residents can subscribe to TOWNA newsletters at http://eepurl. com/h8Yj-n, and the group welcomes comments at TOWNA92651@gmail. com.
CLASSIFIED SECTION
FIRE SAFETY INSPECTOR - LAGUNA BEACH, CA 92651
Full Time - $75,252.00 - $105,864.00 Annually Go to GovernmentJobs.com to apply and for more information.
Are you passionate about serving your community? The City of Laguna Beach is currently seeking an individual who desires to serve our beautiful, seaside community as a Fire Safety Inspector
The Position: Under general supervision, the incumbent is responsible for coordinating and conducting vegetation hazard inspections; defensible space inspections, assisting with the presentation of education programs to the public, maintaining records and data-
bases on inspections, and performing related duties as required. This position may assist on a wide range
prevention initiatives and hazard prevention activities; perform basic fire inspections in residential, commercial, and school occupancies; on occasion, prepare fire prevention public information; completes reports, issues notices, prepares correspondence and performs related work as required. The Application Process: Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis with a first review on January 15, 2024. A completed City online application, an uploaded resume/CV, and list of three (3) professional references must be submitted by the close of the deadline for consideration.
HUMAN RESOURCES ANALYST (GENERALIST)
LAGUNA BEACH, CA 92651
Full-Time - $68,448 - $96,132 Annually Go to GovernmentJobs.com to apply and for more information.
The Human Resources and Risk Management Department is seeking a generalist who will perform a variety of tasks to support the Department’s needs, playing a crucial role in ensuring seamless coordination, effective communication, and efficient operations you will contribute to the overall success of the Department, the City as a whole, and the employees we serve.Examples of Duties-What you’ll do: Support the Human Resources & Risk Management Department with a variety of human resources and risk management analytical and administrative duties. Support the management of employee records (hard copies and e-files).
Manage a variety of correspondence from external partners including, DOT, DMV, EDD, NeoGov and others. Oversee HRIS data integrity, data entry and personnel file maintenance
Provide support with recruitment functions, including seasonal hires and high-volume recruitments
Provide administrative support to risk management functions, including uploading documents to third-party administrators
Provide regular reports to management on HR metrics and trends
Maintain and update internal HR policies, procedures, and practices in compliance with California and federal labor laws and regulations.
Provide complex administrative support to a department head and departmental staff.
