‘She Taught Us Beauty Is Worth Protecting’: Remembering Barbara Metzger
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
The rain fell softly outside the Neighborhood Congregational Church on Saturday afternoon, Jan. 20, as dozens of Barbara Metzger’s family and friends gathered to pay tribute to the longtime Laguna Beach advocate and editor, who died on Dec. 10, 2023 at the age of 90.
The service included words from Laguna Wilderness Press Founder Ron Chilcote, former Laguna Beach Mayor Ann Christoph, Metzger’s daughter Claire Stoneman and granddaughter Twyla Mount.
“Barbara taught us that what is beautiful is worth protecting,” Mount said at her grandmother’s celebration of life.
Metzger’s extensive community involvement included being a member of the Design
Marc Wiener Vacates Post as Community Development Director Public Works Director Named as Temporary Replacement
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
After four years of public service in Laguna Beach, Marc Wiener left his position as Community Development Director on Wednesday, Jan. 24 according to an announcement released by the city the following day.
The release stated that Wiener left “to pursue other professional opportunities.”
“I wish to thank Marc for his contributions these past four years and to wish him well in his future endeavors. Marc is proud of his time in Laguna and of the many friends he made along the way,” Interim City Manager Sean Joyce said.
The interim city manager has appointed Laguna Beach Public Works Director Mark McAvoy as the Acting Director of Community Development while the city searches for a permanent replacement.
McAvoy will work with Assistant
Residents, Local Environmental Groups Band Together to Halt Unauthorized SCE Grading
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
On Jan. 4, Janine Robinson set out on her daily morning walk in the area around Alta Laguna Park. However, what the Top of the World resident saw carved into the wilderness below was anything but routine.
Several dirt paths, approximately 20 feet wide and estimated to be one to two miles long, had been bulldozed into the city-owned open space creating a prominent blemish across the landscape west of Alta Laguna Boulevard and north of Park Avenue.
Robinson, who immediately contacted the Top of the World Neighborhood Association about her discovery wasn’t the only citizen with raised eyebrows and questions.
“Imagine my reaction when my son came running into the house asking why people in bulldozers were ‘wrecking the ground in our front yard,’” A Park Avenue homeowner wrote in an email to the Indy. “How do you answer such an improbable question?”
After a week-long flurry of emails and calls back and forth to city and county officials, concerned residents and local environmental groups discovered that not only
WIENER, PAGE 7
Laguna Beach Community Development Director
Marc Wiener left his position with the city on Jan. 24. Photo courtesy of the city of Laguna Beach.
PAGE 12
As a busy copy editor, Barbara Metzger could be seen traveling back and forth to the former Kinkos in North Laguna. Photo courtesy of the Stoneman family
BARBARA, PAGE 12
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Visit Laguna Beach Names Surf & Sand Resort General Manager Joanna Bear as New Board Chair
In this role, Bear, a Visit Laguna board member since 2013, will oversee Visit Laguna’s tourism efforts.
“I’m honored to take on the role of chair of the board and look forward to sharing our Laguna Beach story and continuing to shine a spotlight on a destination I’m so passionate about,” Joanna Bear, Surf & Sand Resort general manager said. “This year will bring exciting enhancements along with the return of long-standing events, creating must-visit moments for visitors.”
cial strategy, guest experience and employee culture.
Bear graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s in business. Soon after, she began her career in hospitality at the Buttes, a Carefree Resort in Tempe, Ariz. While there, she managed the property through the transition from Carefree to a Wyndham hotel.
coastal destination we are today,” Rachel O’Neill-Cusey, Visit Laguna Beach president and CEO said. “We look forward to working together to ensure we are delivering an incredible visitor experience while also maintaining and preserving the pristine terrain of Laguna Beach.”
By LB Indy Staff
Visit Laguna Beach has named Joanna Bear, General Manager at Surf & Sand Resort, as its board chair, effective immediately.
Bear joined JC Resorts in 2003 on the rooms operations team at Surf & Sand Resort and became general manager in 2010. She is responsible for all resort operations, financial performance, recruiting and retention, property programming (including outlets, food and beverage, retail, and spa), banquets and catering, commer-
Bear has had a seat on the executive team for the board of directors of Visit Laguna Beach since 2013 and currently serves as chair. She also sat on the Government Affairs Counsel for Laguna Beach and continues to have an active advisory role to city leaders.
“Joanna is a true partner to our team at Visit Laguna Beach. For the past decade, she has been there to support our mission and help us grow our initiatives to become the premier
School District Invites Local Businesses to Engage with Students at Career Roundup
By LB Indy Staff
Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) invites local businesses to participate as exhibitors at its upcoming Career Roundup, a unique opportunity to talk with
students and offer practical insights into potential career paths, internship opportunities and entry-level requirements. The event is scheduled for March
Last year’s LBUSD Career Roundup, an event designed for local businesses to contribute to developing the next-generation workforce. Photo courtesy of LBUSD
The Board of Directors comprises representatives from lodging businesses, a city representative, and independent professionals interested in the visitor industry. The following board members have new roles in 2024, including, Karyn Philippsen as secretary; Chris Wylie, Casa Loma Beach Hotel & Beach House - treasurer; Kurt Bjorkman, The Ranch at Laguna Beach - vice president; Visit Laguna Beach President & CEO Rachel O’Neill-Cusey and Visit Laguna Beach Chair of the Board Joanna Bear.
Joanna Bear, Surf & Sand Resort general manager, has taken the helm as Visit Laguna Beach’s new chair of the board. Photo courtesy of Visit Laguna Beach
Town Crier
IN AND AROUND LAGUNA BEACH
LOCA Art Talks Features Fascinating Artists Each Month
LOCA Arts Education invites art lovers to its Art Talks events, which are offered monthly in Laguna Beach. The fun and interactive show-and-tells are on Thursdays, 5:30 to 7 p.m., in downtown Laguna Beach. The 2024 season opens with art conservationist Susan Brown on Thursday, Feb. 22. Jennifer Keil, director of Moulton Museum, will join her in discussing how they collaborate to preserve the Moulton collection. As a special treat, Brown will perform a live condition report of a painting by Ruth Peabody, recently discovered in a historic Laguna Beach home.
On March 14, jazz singer and historian Elena Gilliam will reveal how the artwork on album covers of Blue Note Records set the tone for the burgeoning mid-twentieth-century American jazz movement. In April, assemblage artist and sculptor Andrew Myers will share stories of his career, from student days at Laguna College of Art and Design to his latest Screw Art series and new gallery.
The season finale in May, will
feature a slideshow of public art in the downtown area, with a panel of artists led by Mike Tauber. All attendees will enjoy a live “Q and A” conversation and will receive a post-event coupon for 15%-savings at a nearby restaurant. Registration is required, and visitors are $20. Free to LOCA members. See Art Talks at LOCAarts.org or www.locaarts. org/events/category/art-talks.
February Art Start at Hotel Laguna
Come fall in love with art for Valentine’s Day with wine, hors d’oeuvres, and art at Hotel Laguna on Thursday, Feb. 1, from 5 to 6 p.m. The featured artists this month are Lorraine Adler, Charleine Guy and Rosalie Marsh-Boinus. A reception from 5 to 6 p.m. will open the evening, followed by Art Walk from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information, visit firstthursdaysartwalk.org.
Susi Q’s Evening With An Author to feature Pulitzer Prizewinner 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 Migrant Souls” “a resonant and deeply affecting book.” In the best-selling book, Guatemalanborn 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
You’re
set the tone for the burgeoning mid-twentieth-century American jazz movement. Art Talk themes include art conservation in February, album cover art in March, a career-retrospective with Andrew Myers in April, and a panel of public art artists in May. Photo/Mike Tauber
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. Cost is $40, which
CRIER, PAGE 13
Join us for Art Start with wine and hors d'oeuvres from 5 pm to 6 pm at the Hotel Laguna Featured artists Lorraine Adler, Charleine Guy and Rosalie Marsh-Boinus will be in attendance Come hear the soothing sounds of local musician Jake Brown while perusing the art Enjoy the rest of the night at Art Walk from 6 pm to 9 pm
Thursday, February 1st at
As part of LOCA Art Talks, singer and historian Elena Gilliam will reveal how the artwork on album covers of Blue Note Records
“Red Parisian Lady” Rosal e Marsh-Boinus
“Red P ease” Lorraine Adler “The Dancer” Char e ne Guy
Due to printing logistics, home delivery of the paper for next week will take place on Saturday, February 3rd. Bulk copies will be available at our more than 100 locations on Friday as usual.
VIEW THE FULL ISSUE OF THE INDY ONLINE AT LAGUNABEACHINDY.COM
Letters
LETTERS CAN BE MAILED TO: EDITOR@LBINDY.COM
It What It Is
At Tuesday’s city council meeting, staff was directed to pursue more sites for pickleball, including the scenic picnic area directly behind the existing courts at Alta Laguna Park.
For decades, the community has used this stunning spot for celebrations, family picnics and annual potlucks.
If this short-sighted option is pursued, the panoramic sweeping views and picnic tables will be replaced with a pathway and a small green area surrounding massive new courts.
Construction of another pickleball court on this site would destroy the park views to the north, east and west and leave just two tables next to the playground for birthday parties. The only remaining open area in the park would be the soccer/baseball field.
Top of the World residents have already shouldered much of the pickleball burden. The courts and parking lot are packed. Every year, another court gets converted for pickleball.
If more courts are created on top of what used to be picnic space at what’s left of the park, the city should rename it The Alta Laguna Pickleball Center.
Trish Sweeney, Laguna Beach
Response to Michael Ray’s column
How does the Indy keep allowing Ray to print such inaccuracies? How do they not make him state that he was a founder of Liberate Laguna that funded and supported Peter Blake’s campaign and was a major supporter of his failed bid at reelection? And that he started
Liberate Laguna to get the porch on his girlfriend’s house that Design Review Board kept refusing?
Mike, how can you conflate residents asking for a mayor/pro tem rotation with incivility? If you really were listening, you would have heard overwhelmingly residents state that they were in favor of the democratic way that Laguna has previously selected mayor/ pro tem, with each getting a turn. One even stated that Peter (the bully) should have had his turn as mayor or at least pro tem. He would have been a laughingstock and the worst mayor we’ve ever had, but the Bob/Sue cabal shut him out like they shut out Toni Iseman and George Weiss.
LETTERS, PAGE 13
theIndyPoll
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION
Should the city of Laguna Beach take steps to acquire Laguna Canyon Road from CalTrans for project improvements?
- Yes,15% (15 votes)
- No, 70% (35 votes)
TOTAL VOTES - 50
THIS WEEK’S QUESTION
Would you be in favor of a walkway/bikeway separating walkers and bikers from vehicles along Laguna Canyon Road?
- Yes
- No
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Jan. 29 - Heritage Committee Meeting at 6 p.m. Jan. 31 - Administrative Design Review Meeting at 3 p.m.
Alex Rounaghi Mayor pro tem arounaghi@ lagunabeachcity.net
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
George Weiss Council member gweiss@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
OTHER ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES: REP. KATIE PORTER,, 1113 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515. 202-225-2415
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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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Sue Kempf Mayor skempf@lagunabeachcity.net
Bob Whalen Council member bwhalen@lagunabeachcity.net
Mark Orgill Council member morgill@lagunabeachcity.net
Ann Marie McKay City Clerk amckay@lagunabeachcity.net
Laura Parisi City Treasurer lparisi@ lagunabeachcity.net
Community Development Director Matt Schneider throughout this interim period to “provide continuity of department leadership that provides services upon which so many residents rely every day.”
In turn, McAvoy has assigned City Engineer Mark Trestik, a 23-year veteran of Laguna Beach, as Acting Public Works Director while he steps in as Acting Community Director.
The city said McAvoy and Trestik would remain in frequent contact to ensure no disruptions of operations in Public Works and to provide McAvoy with a smooth return to his original department.
“I am confident that the depth and breadth of talent in Public Works will allow for Mark McAvoy’s temporary absence without reducing service to
the public,” Joyce said.
Mark McAvoy is not a candidate for the Community Development Director position, the city said.
Hired in 2019, Wiener provided strategic management and oversight for all Department services including Planning, Zoning, Building and Permitting, Code Enforcement and Historic Preservation. He worked on large-scale and advanced planning projects such as updates to the city’s General Plan, the Downtown Specific Plan, and continuous work with the California Coastal Commission.
Wiener oversaw the adoption of the Short-Term Lodging Ordinance, Downtown Specific Plan and Historic Preservation Program, and updated the Safety and Housing Elements of the city’s General Plan.
As of press time, attempts to reach Wiener for comment were unsuccessful.
FOA Foundation Accepts Grant Applications for 2024, Available Feb. 1
Deadline to Apply is Feb. 29
The FOA Foundation is opening up application submissions for 2024 Art Grants beginning February 1, 2024. Local nonprofit organizations with programs promoting fine arts in and around Laguna Beach may apply.
“The FOA Foundation takes great pride in supporting the vibrant tapestry of non-profit organizations
that enhance the cultural fabric of Laguna Beach,” said Kathy Jones, FOA foundation president. “Our community thrives on the hard work and dedication of these groups, and we are committed to fostering an environment that celebrates creativity and the arts.”
The Laguna Beach Festival of Arts Foundation, now named the FOA Foundation, was established
in 1989 to preserve and promote the fine arts and all other artistic endeavors in and about the City of Laguna Beach, California. The Foundation is made up of a board of trustees who oversee and administer the program, including Kathy Jones (president), John Campbell (vice president), Bob Earl (treasurer), Jacquie Moffett (secretary), Jeff
Redeker (board member), Jeff Rovner (board member) and Kirsten Whalen (board member).
Grant applications are available online at www.foafoundation.net and the submission deadline is Feb. 29.
For more information on the grant application process, contact Kathy Jones at arts@foafoundation. net.
LBUSD board member Jim Kelly and Dr. Robert Mangel take a moment away from scientific exploration to read about the LBUSD Educators of the Year during a trip to Antarctica earlier this month. Photo/Jim Kelly and Robert Mangel
GUEST OPINION: WISDOM WORKOUT
Put The New In Your New Year
By SuSan Mcneal VelaSquez
Knowing where you are is the first step in making new decisions. Selfhonesty might not be sexy, but it is crucial to your sanity.
Most of us make our decisions based on what we like or don’t like. If we like something, we go after it, and we try to avoid what we don’t like.
The “I like it/I don’t like it” approach will keep you stuck in living a small, predictable life that can easily become stagnant and rigid. Why? The only way you know
beforehand what you like or don’t like is if you have already had a similar experience. Therefore, making decisions based solely on personal likes or dislikes stops life’s flow.
Nothing new can find you. You will stop the wonder and delight that comes through unanticipated experiences of synchronicity. The true gifts of the universe come wrapped in light and love. Openness and acceptance of new experiences requires trust in the basic goodness of yourself and the basic goodness of your life.
So, the first part of the formula to broaden your self-assessment is to decide if you are ready to transform what isn’t working.
If your answer is yes, here is the next question. Are you willing to create a life that works? Wanting what isn’t working to go away is one part, and being willing to create what does work requires another yes.
Everyone wants a life that works. Many people wish, dream, long for, grasp at, demand, command, lust after, and suffer over their current situations.
What works is to commit your will, your willingness, and your willpower to the business of living your life to the fullest. Will you soften your heart, open your mind, uplift your spirit, un-numb, defrost, and live life as though you’ve never been hurt? It isn’t necessary to know how to do that at this point.
If your answer is yes, continue. If your answer is no, ask a few more questions. Who are you blaming or resenting because they hurt you deeply? Are you lost? Are you drowning, going down for the third time, and still unwilling or unable to call out for help?
Are you so deeply disappointed that you won’t let your heart and soul participate fully again? Did you squelch your hurt feelings, cut off your tears, and cut short your grieving, and now your sad is stuck and really mad? Are you waiting for someone else to read your mind, figure you out, fix it, and make it all better? Are you lusting after perfection and won’t accept anything less? Are you acting spoiled and emotionally immature? Are you
holding an unrealistic picture of what a successful life is?
If you are willing to answer any of these questions sincerely, you might be able to get unstuck and start moving again. Remember, no one ever feels 100% able when confronting hard situations. Lighten up on yourself. Ask for guidance, internal and external, take the first steps, and let go of having to have all the answers right now.
Be willing to ask for inner inspiration about the right action for you right now and take the risk of accepting external help by asking for what you need, even though it is uncomfortable.
Your intuitive guidance can soothe and smooth the journey if you will allow yourself to let go, let down, and do whatever is necessary to become ready, willing, and able to receive new ways of learning to thrive.
Susan has created and produced personal development seminars for over four decades and is the author of Beyond Intellect: Journey into the Wisdom of Your Intuitive Mind. Learn more at: www.susanveasquez.com.
By Frank Aronoff | LB Indy
LAGUNA WRESTLERS DEFEAT EDISON 42-32
WRESTLING (2-1 – 2nd Place Sunset Wave League)
In a historic win for Laguna, the Breakers won four matches via pin - by senior Barron Zepeda at the 120-pound weight class, senior Caedman Welch at the 150-pound weight class, freshman Coby Busick at the 157-pound weight class, and junior James Kramer at the 165-pound weight class. Wins on decision also came from senior John Rivas Henrici of the 126-pound weight class, Sophmore Aris Azadzoi of the 132-pound weight class, and Senior Dylan Delmaro of the 215-pound weight class.
This past weekend, the team participated in the 33-team Esperanza Holiday Classic. The squad had three athletes score at the event - Jackson Lawsky - 113-pound weight class, earned 5th place with a 4-1 record; Barron Zepeda - 120-pound weight class, earned 3rd place with a 4-1 record and Caedman Welch in the 150-pound weight class earned 8th
Sports/Schools
SUBMISSIONS WELCOME BY 5 PM TUESDAY
and seemed to be in control, leading 58-54 with two minutes left in the Senior Night contest, but a string of turnovers and mistakes resulted in an 8-0 Baron run for a 62-58 loss.
Barons now hold a 9-8 series lead.
The next home games are Jan. 30 with Corona del Mar and Feb. 1 with Huntington Beach.
GIRLS BASKETBALL (7-17, 1-2)
Laguna continues to play tough but falls short as they can’t seem to dent the win column. On Jan. 18, they lost 47-42 to Fountain Valley (14-11) as Alexandra Grombchevsky hit five three-point shots and Lily Alvarado scored nine points and took in 16 rebounds in the effort.
This past Monday, the squad traveled to Notre Dame Academy in Los Angeles for a non-league game, losing to the Regals 49-31. They lost at Edison 47-33 the following day in another non-league game. Breakers traveled to Huntington on Jan. 25, host Cerritos on Jan. 27 and will wrap up the season next week with games at Newport on Jan. 29 and here with Marina on Jan. 31. The
place with a 3-2 record.
Up next for the Wrestlers: Sunset Conference League Finals will be on Feb. 3 at Edison.
BOYS BASKETBALL (12-12, 1-2)
Laguna split their recent games, defeating Huntington Beach 64-62 at the Oiler’s gym on Jan. 17 but dropping a non-league contest at home to Fountain Valley on Jan. 19.
Against Huntington, the Breakers had a big 2nd quarter run to take control of the game, with Jack Halverson and Dylan McEachern each scoring 20 in the Wave League contest. Laguna has now won nine straight from Huntington but trails in the all-time series 28-14. The teams first met in 1935.
In the Fountain Valley game, the Breakers rallied in the third quarter
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Laguna wrestlers place at Esperanza. From left to right: Senior Max Barrow, senior Caedman Welch (8th place), senior Barron Zepeda (3rd place), senior Jackson Lawsky (5th place), freshman William Hanke and head coach Bobby Morales. The meet was held on Jan. 20. at Esperanza High School. Photo courtesy of Laguna Athletics
SPORTS, PAGE 10
City of Laguna Beach is dedicated to protecting the environment and the public from the harmful effects balloons have when improperly released or discarded.
BOYS SOCCER (4-11-1, 1-2-0)
Breakers lost a 1-0 Wave League contest to Fountain Valley (1-2, 6-9) on Jan. 17 at Guyer Field and dropped a 7-0 contest to Corona del Mar on Jan. 19.
Laguna faced Edison in a nonleague match on Jan. 24 and close out the season with the second round of league play. The Breakers host Huntington on Jan. 26, Marina on Jan. 29, and travel to Fountain Valley on Jan. 31.
GIRLS SOCCER (8-6-1, 1-2-0)
Laguna lost a pair of Sunset Conference crossover games, losing 5-0 to Huntington Beach (12-5-3) at the Oiler campus on January 18 and 2-0 to Los Alamitos at Guyer Field on Jan. 23. Breakers were at Edison on Jan. 25 and conclude the regular season next week at Corona del Mar on Jan. 29 and home for Fountain Valley on Jan. 31.
GIRLS WATER POLO (12-9, 4-1)
Breakers Roll past Los Alamitos and Corona del Mar
Laguna moved closer to capturing a share of the Sunset league crown with a 17-6 win at Los Alamitos on Jan. 18 and a 15-11 victory at Corona del Mar on Jan. 23.
Against the Griffins, Laguna jumped to a decisive 8-1 advantage at halftime, easily rolling to the win. Presley Jones had five goals, Ava Knepper scored four, and Siena Jumani had 11 saves in the cage. At Corona del Mar, Laguna broke a 6-6 tie in the second period as Kara Carver scored off a pass from Daniela Suh at the 1:20 mark, followed by a score from Emerson Hemsley on the next possession to take an 8-6 edge into the half. Laguna scored twice in less than two minutes into the second half off tosses by Presley Jones and Carver and eventually built a 13-7 advantage.
The last major in-season tournament is this weekend. The Breakers will face #2 Foothill and #5 Newport Harbor on Friday, Jan. 26, at the Newport Pool. The tournament features six of the top seven teams and may have post-season seeding implications.
The final regular season and league game is Jan. 30 at Los Alamitos. Playoff pairings will be released on Saturday, Feb. 3 at 9 a.m. at cifss. org. The open division quarterfinal opening contest will be Thursday, Feb. 8.
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.
Edison Bulldozed in Open Space Without Necessary Permits GUEST OPINION:
By Gene FelDeR
Many Laguna Beach residents worked very hard for years to preserve open space to add to our quality of life. All Lagunans should know that without proper permits, Southern California Edison (SCE) bulldozed up to 15-foot wide paths through open space, including a portion of OC Parks, and into City-owned open space. This open space is west of Alta Laguna Boulevard and north of Park Avenue, including a portion of Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park.
Many thanks to Top of the World
neighbor Janine Robinson and TOWNA board member Carey Strombotne for raising the alarm and providing photos of the unpermitted grading to the City and OC Parks.
Edison has a project to replace wires and five utility poles, and deemed an emergency and a fire hazard.
Information from Laguna Beach Interim City Manager Sean Joyce included:
“On January 11, I learned that SCE had begun unpermitted emergency repair work in the Top of the World. Upon learning of the work, I contacted SCE Saddleback District Manager Robert Maystrovich and asked him to take action to refrain from further work until City staff could learn more about the circumstances. We confirmed, and Mr. Maystrovich acknowledged, that the work was, in fact, being performed without issuance of a City permit— nor that of Coastal Commission staff.”
Of course, we all care about the prompt completion of the SCE project if important for reliable electrical service and fire safety. The Top of the World Neighborhood Association is thankful to Mayor Sue Kempf and the city, particularly City Manager Sean Joyce, for dealing with this situation.
Laguna Beach U12 All Stars win AYSO South Orange County Championship
Interim City Manager Sean Joyce emailed us:
“I am pleased to share with you that the efforts and interests of the city and many concerned residents appears to have resulted in a successful outcome.
I have been informed a short time ago by SCE Saddleback District Manager Rober Maystrovich that Edison is working diligently on an alternative plan for completing much-needed repairs without requiring additional grading to the farthest pole. This plan would utilize helicopters to avoid any further habitat impact and allow the completion of repairs before the critically important gnatcatcher nesting season and minimize and expedite the scope of SCE’s soil erosion control and natural habitat restoration measures. Importantly, the plan would also allow SCE to re-energize the power lines that serve a large service area, including City Hall and the city’s first responder (Police and Fire) headquarters.”
So stop the bulldozing, use helicopters to replace the wires and five utility poles, and restore the damage done to the open space.
I have questions for the City Council:
1. Did Fire Chief Nico King or the fire department know about the fire risk necessitating the Edison project?
2. Can the City place signage and fencing or otherwise discourage the public from using the Edison graded paths as new trails in the open space?
3. A number of us met with Edison folks on site. Their mitigation person thought restoration, returning the paths to healthy vegetation, would take five to 10 years. None of us are interested in mitigation. We want restoration. How will the city monitor the restoration of the damaged open space?
From this situation, I have a personal opinion: The city is involved in hiring a new city manager. Look what is right before your eyes. Interim city manager Sean Joyce has done an outstanding job, and the city council should consider making him an offer that he can’t refuse to continue working as Laguna Beach City Manager. Sean Joyce has demonstrated how a city manager should perform and has done outstanding work in a short period of time. It has been quite refreshing and remarkable.
The Laguna Beach AYSO Girls U12 soccer All Star team won the South Orange County Championship on Jan. 20 at Crown Valley Community Park in Laguna Niguel, defeating a tough San Clemente team 1-0. This gritty group of girls went undefeated in the All-Star tourney that featured 10 of the best All Star teams in South Orange County with three wins and one tie in pool play, in addition to their Championship victory. They also only gave up one goal in the entire tournament. The team now advances to the next level of play to the AYSO area tournament in February.
Gene is Top of the World Neighborhood Association president and a board member of the Laguna Canyon Conservancy for 35 years, serving as vice president in 1989. Gene also served on the Laguna Beach Historical Society Board of Directors for 13 years, five years as president and is co-author, with Foster J. Eubanks, of the 2013 book “Laguna Beach, Then & Now.”
Pictured from left to right. Bottom row - Elisa Camacho, Penny Jameson. Middle row - Macie Shearer, Vivian Orr, Isla Cleary, Hailey Hall, Stella McKinzie, Riley Berberian, Abbie Kalmanovich, Evelyn Howe. Top row - Coaches Ryan Howe and Brad Berberian. Not pictured, Minda Watson.
GUEST OPINION:
Skipping Down the Sidewalks of 1970s Laguna
By JOn FlIcK
My father drove a flower-powered van for his shop, Accent on Furniture, located a stone’s throw from Timothy Leary and the Brotherhood of Eternal Love compound on Laguna Canyon Road in the sixties.
Pops would leap out in Leisure World like Jumpin’ Jack Flash, his long mane cascading below the butterfly belt buckle that held up his bell bottoms. My hippie father refinished antique furniture and it was comical to me when he dropped off a roll top desk to some senior who served under Black Jack John Pershing in the shelling of the Argonne Forest in WWI.
My dad Corb was shacked up with
GUEST OPINION:
a chick named Spot, who designed his buckle in her booth at the Sawdust Festival. He met her when her VW Bug broke down in front of his business. Love by karma. Hey, it was in the air in that era. He gave Marcia her nickname to herald the freckles that were enveloped by her red hair.
It was heaven sent to escape the Dominican nuns that schooled me at Sacred Heart in Redlands with different instruments of torture wrapped in their rosary beads and ride shotgun with my divorced Dad delivering furniture. Jagger warbling out of the eight track player, “Yesterday don’t matter if it’s gone.” The Greeter on the corner would give us a wave as we drove by the Laguna Hotel. Dad took me to the theatre across the street to see The Endless Summer. Up the road on the right was Fahrenheit 451 where I bought my first Bukowski book and discovered the Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers. Sometimes we’d score a burger at Husky Burger on the way to his South Laguna abode.
Dad also raced a Sunbeam at Riverside and other Sports Car Club of America courses. With no factory backing, he often had his hippie helpers at the shop work deep into the night to get the ride ready for a race at Willow
NEIGHBORHOOD, PAGE 14
The Case for Dean Phillips
By BIlly FRIeD
It’s no secret that our democracy is in peril. That trust in government is at an all-time low. That Donald Trump’s popularity is the perception that he is an anti-government disrupter and crusader. And that, despite a strong economy that averted recession, the suppression of Covid, progress against climate change, infrastructure rebuilding, and the defense of Ukraine without sacrificing a single American’s life (plus a stable and scandal-free White
House), people believe the world is worse under Joe Biden. Truth has been devalued, and the media defenestrated. People don’t trust journalists and their vital, civic role of speaking truth to power. Meanwhile, the two-party system is beholden only to money, and most politicians are desperate careerists who spend their time fundraising for re-election instead of making policy.
Back in 2016, the Democratic party presided over a coronation rather than an election. Yep, those privileged few who run the party apparatus decided it was Hilary’s moment despite clear evidence there was little excitement for her, and she was rife with flaws (not necessarily of her own making). Meanwhile, an obstreperous old white Jew from Brooklyn was winning the hearts and minds of young people from both parties because of his insistent message that income inequality created two sets of intractable realities in America –prosperity and instability. And that another way could be imagined that
PHILLIPS, PAGE 14
Street Beat
EXCERPTS FROM POLICE LOGS
Thursday, Jan. 17
Bench warrant. Daniel James Moretti, 44, of Laguna Beach, was arrested on suspicion of a felony bench warrant. He was held without bail.
Public consumption of alcohol. Glenn Edward Mendiaz, 53, of Laguna Beach, was arrested on suspicion of consuming alcohol in a public place. He was held on $500 bail.
Bench warrant. Fredrick Nelson Hoisington, 49, of San Francisco, was arrested on suspicion of an outstanding bench warrant. He was held on $2,500 bail.
Disorderly conduct. Rene Daniel Morelan, 61, of Laguna Niguel, was arrested on suspicion of alcohol-related disorderly conduct. He was held on $500 bail.
Minor possession of alcohol, switchblade knife in vehicle, DUI. Jesse Francisco Sanchez, 20, of Anaheim, was
arrested on suspicion of minor possession of alcohol, having a switchblade knife in the vehicle, drunk driving, and blowing over 0.08 percent blood alcohol level. He was held on $6,000 bail.
Friday, Jan. 18
Fugitive from justice, license suspended. Ron Dwayne Kelly, 42, of Buena Park, was arrested on suspicion of fugitive from justice and suspended license. He was held on $500 bail.
Bench warrant. Michael Alvinedgar Krengel, 38, of Laguna Beach, was arrested on suspicion of an outstanding bench warrant. Bail information wasn’t immediately available.
Saturday, Jan. 19
Battery. Jon Robert Loomis, 51, of Laguna Beach, was arrested on suspicion
BEAT, PAGE 14
Nothing beats a warm and cozy bowl of pasta on a cold day. Look no further than our restaurants. We offer a fine dining experience with a touch of Italian flair. Our menu features a variety of dishes, from seafood and meats to salads and desserts. You can also enjoy our selection of wines and cocktails. Come in and dine with us today!
STREET
Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Alessa an d Sal erno.
Barbara
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friend.
Review Board from 1987 to 1988, where she reviewed all new residential and commercial construction and major remodels and applications for variances. She was on the Planning Commission from 1993 to 1996 and was instrumental in developing the Downtown Specific Plan and the Hillside Guidelines, among other planning documents.
A longtime member of Village Laguna, Metzger served on the board as secretary and archivist.
“Barbara helped make Laguna a better place through many years of participation on the Design Review Board and the Planning Commission. Throughout her years in Laguna, she served on the board of Village Laguna and edited its monthly newsletter around community issues and concerns,” said Chilcote, a longtime resident and
Metzger was born and raised in Philadelphia, Penn. Her father, Eugene Pearson, worked as an electrical engineer for General Electric. Her mother, Ethel, was an elementary school teacher. Barbara’s family was the first on the block to own a television that her father had built from a kit. The family spent summers in Toledo on Lake Eerie with Barbara’s grandparents.
Metzger received a full scholarship to attend Earlham College, a Quaker School in Richmond, Indiana. There, she met Duane Metzger, and they married on June 1, 1954. The two newlyweds moved to Chicago, and Metzger entered the University of Chicago’s School of Social Work but would not pursue a career in that field.
The Metzgers had two children, John, born in 1958, and Claire, born in 1960. The family moved to Laguna Beach in 1966 and bought a house overlooking the ocean for $35,000. Duane took a faculty position at the
new Irvine campus of the University of California.
After moving to Laguna Beach, Metzger became the copy editor for the journal “Current Anthropology,” which jumpstarted her long career as a copy editor. She used to edit from her home office and traveled back and forth to the old Kinkos in North Laguna and the post office. She transitioned to computer editing in the 90s but was said to always prefer her red and blue PaperMate pens.
Later in her career, she worked for “Latin American Perspectives” and continued to work on articles until a few weeks before her death. She can be credited with teaching at least five generations of anthropologists and graduate students how to write scholarly articles and books.
Along with academic journals, Metzger also edited all of Laguna Wilderness Press’s conservation books, including “Nature’s Laguna Wilderness” (2002), “Wild and Beautiful”(2011), “Wildflowers of
Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains” (2013), “The Laguna Wilderness” (2014), “The Laguna Canyon Project” (2018), and “Alani and the Giant Kelp Elf” (2019). Together with others, she also wrote and edited a new expanded edition of “Laguna Beach and the Greenbelt: An Historic American Landscape.”
“Barbara was a dear friend, and we shall miss her, but never forget our weekly walks into open space, the frequent phone calls in search of how to stay the course with all to do with editing the unending flow and publishing of manuscripts and a half million words before us each year,” Chilcote said. “She was determined to finish everything and worked at it until the end.”
Metzer was not only an adept editor, she also loved cross-country skiing and took regular trips to Yosemite to ski with her sister-in-law Margaret. Later in her life, she traveled to Yosemite Valley often with her daughter and family.
She loved medieval and Renaissance music and was a proficient recorder player.
Birding was another favorite pastime, and Metzger loved watching birds outside her window with binoculars and marking her sightings in her trusty Petersen Field Guide for Birds.
Metzger loved shopping for new native plants for her garden and Tree of Life and Armstrong Nurseries were some of her favorite haunts.
Metzger is survived by her daughter, Claire, and son-in-law, David Stoneman; son, John, and daughterin-law, Lisa Metzger; grandchildren, Piper, Allegra, and Twyla Mount, Alden Stoneman, and Miranda and Amelia Metzger; and great-grandchildren, Basie and Zadie Barno; and by her sister Lois.
was Southern California Edison (SCE) responsible for the bulldozed paths, the utility company was doing so without City and Coastal Commission permits.
On Jan. 11, Laguna Beach Interim City Manager Sean Joyce asked SCE to temporarily stop their repairs until the city could learn more about the circumstances.
“If citizens and environmentalists hadn’t alerted the city as quickly, and the city, namely Sean Joyce and Sue Kempf, hadn’t been so amazingly responsive and got them to stop immediately, they would have kept bulldozing, literally that next day, and could have caused more than double the amount the damage they already did,” Robinson said. “It’s not often the city and environmentalists team up so effectively and successfully and cause an all-powerful utility to stand down— and do the right thing.”
According to SCE Saddleback
District Manager Robert Maystrovich, the public utility company was in the process of necessary repair work in the open space when engineers ran into a series of electrical issues, which, coupled with high winds, created an emergency situation.
“These new circuit loading and reliability risks to critical loads, including City Hall, along with the extreme fire risk caused by the initial weather event, led my team reclassifying this section of work as emergency,” Maystrovich explained in correspondence with Joyce, that he in turn, shared with all concerned parties in an email blast.
“As we shifted into the heavy terrain section, it was determined that the original construction plan to utilize helicopters to remotely fly in construction personnel and material was not viable due to the overgrown native vegetation,” Maystrovich wrote. “As we were without a place to physically and safely land them, this was no longer an option.”
Still, SCE lacked the necessary permits from the City and the Coastal
Commission, prompting an emergency meeting with representatives from all three entities on Tuesday, Jan. 16.
“SCE agreed to submit an emergency Coastal Development Permit (CDP) imminently,” interim city manager Sean Joyce wrote in his report update on Jan. 18. “City staff met virtually with Coastal Commission staff this morning to confer about a variety of matters associated with the work performed and planned by SCE associated with its cover conductor project.”
Joyce said SCE has agreed to use helicopters for the pole replacements to avoid any further impacts on the habitat. SCE also hopes to complete its repairs before the threatened coastal California gnatcatcher begins its nesting season on Jan. 31.
SCE reports mitigation and restoration efforts are estimated to take five to 10 years. And with the popularity of Alta Laguna Park and the surrounding trails increasing, residents have expressed concern the bulldozed paths could be mistaken for public trails by visiting hikers, creating erosion.
Laguna Canyon Conservancy
President Gayle Waite said she’s learned from meetings with the Southland Region Power in Nature Coalition that electric companies have caused this type of wildland destruction in other parts of California.
“When caught, they (electrical companies) are made to do mitigation, but it is usually too little, too late, and does not seem to stop them from repeating the behavior,” Waite wrote in an email to the Indy. “SCE should be forced to pay a big fine, but then residents and taxpayers will foot the bill and electric rates just go up.”
“Laguna Beach city officials and the Coastal Commission should hold SCE senior management accountable since if these repairs were truly emergency ones, how is it possible neither was consulted and made aware of them?”
Waite said. “Shouldn’t the city at least been alerted to a potential electrical emergency and have the fire department on notice? The public would like to know.”
Barbara Metzger at Yosemite, her favorite place outside Laguna Beach, shortly before her death. Photo courtesy of the Stoneman family
Barbara Metzger (end of table) sits with Village Laguna members and friends (l to r) Linda Brown, Bobbie Minkin, Verna Rollinger, Mary Kastner and Bonnie and Arnold Hano around 2014. Photo courtesy of the Stoneman family. Photo courtesy of the Stoneman family
District
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12 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Laguna Beach High School Dugger Gym.
The Career Roundup is designed for businesses to contribute to developing the next-generation workforce. By signing up as an exhibitor, local organizations can connect with students who are just starting to explore their career path, allowing businesses to build relationships and identify potential interns or future employees before they enter the job market.
“Building strong connections between our schools and local businesses is fundamental to the success of our students,” LBUSD Superintendent Jason Viloria said. “As we collaborate to shape the future workforce, we believe that by working together, we create pathways for our students to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the community they call home.”
Participation is free for exhibitors. LBUSD will provide tables, chairs, and power needs. To sign up or for more information, contact LBUSD Coordinator of Career Education Kellee Shearer at kshearer@lbusd. org.
Crier
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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.
Pruning workshop for healthy and beautiful plants this Saturday
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.
It’s laughable that you accuse Weiss of costing the city $500K. From the dais, Mayor Bob said that they settled with Shohreh before getting the final report from the very biased (city paid for) outside counsel and that it had no bearing on why they paid her off. And Weiss never got to defend himself before she left. Maybe it’s because, along with Peter, they voted for her as city manager and they could no longer cover for the worst city manager Laguna has ever had. Or maybe it was because of threatened litigation over her many bad decisions that would have indeed cost the city millions.
Shohreh, with Bob/Sue/Peter’s backing, cost the city so much money in bad decisions (Ti Amo - $2.7 million), endless consultant’s reports ($700K for an unwanted parking structure plan), and lost staff.
Do you think Laguna residents are so stupid that they will believe you if you say something enough times? Residents – ask him to back up his ridiculous statements with proof and evidence. Indy staff – please make him back up his columns with facts.
Michele Monda, Laguna Beach
Latest Green Light Column Hits Home
Tom Osborne’s latest Green Light column touched upon roles individuals and city councils can play when battling climate change. As individuals, Mr. Osborne and family are doing what I hope more people would consider. They have found ways to reduce their carbon footprints without sacrificing their modern conveniences. Mr. Osborne discusses the city council’s decision to join Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) and bring more clean energy to the city. I hope more city councils, such as mine in Laguna Niguel, find ways to reduce the use of dirty fossil fuel sources. A good start would be to make sure their city’s climate action plans are up to date. If none exists, creating one in today’s environment is a must, as planning sustainable and resilient strategies are economically sound. Mr. Osborne’s column also discusses a national policy of putting a price on carbon. I agree this would go a long way to transition our energy economy and reduce those harmful emissions.
All the measures the author discusses will require additional electrical transmissions from energy producers to energy users. Therefore, we must build out our grid and transmission lines to accommodate the large, expected growth. Those long-distance transmission line projects can take over a decade to approve, especially when moving electricity from one state to another. Electricity should be seen as an important commodity going forward; therefore, the outdated permitting process must be revisited.
should work on permitting
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
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
MOTLEY 2 ( m o T ley C rue T ribu T
3/23 THE HIGHWAYMAN SHOW
3/24 NELSON
3/28 HERMAN’S HERMITS
3/29 HERMAN’S HERMITS
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
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
5/18 VENICE
5/19 THE LETTERMEN
5/24 DSB (J ourney T ribu T e )
5/31 YACHTY BY NATURE
6/6 HOWIE DAY
6/14 AMBROSIA
6/16 ELVIN BISHOP Big Fun Trio
6/21 DESPERADO ( e A
6/22 DESPERADO
6/29 SKELETON CREW
7/6 SHINE ON (P
Neighborhood
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Springs. They were a motley crew, Moe, looked a lot like Fat Freddy, paint splotched pants and frizzy fro famed by muttonchops. He would dip the furniture in the vat of stripper to take off the old finish, my dad following by accenting the pieces with a practiced brush. They would relax at the dart board with a Lucky Lager in their non throwing hand. Dad worked his way up from the bottom after chucking his architect job and trading his brush cut for a ponytail when mom and he parted in Redlands. She had gotten pregnant while a high school student at St. Bernadine’s and he had been a hot rodder, “In the still of the night.” They married out of necessity as they did in those days when I made my appearance. After a couple years of struggle, Dad boogied to the beach and went through his metamorphosis like the butterfly on the buckle.
Dad was playful as a puppy when that funny smell emerged from underneath the bedroom door. He and Spot would gather me and we would line up on the porch of his tiny house. Accompanied with rubber tipped darts we would enter one by one. It was open season when the last one entered, often opening the refrigerator door to cast light on the cramped living room and spy the hidden twosome for last person standing not hit with a dart wins. When he sold the shop and bought a couple cabins in a valley of rolling hills of pine he christened Shady Acres in the late seventies, the beach still called me. I’ve been staying at the Laguna Riviera since then, its rustic exterior reminding me of a hotel off the Italian coastline. I would listen to Rastafarian music at the White House. Before it closed, I’d have a bucket of clams at the Beach House or tacos from the stand across the street owned by the cool cat with the dreads, which on my last visit I discovered was closed.
Yes, Pops turned me on to Laguna. A buzz that never ends.
Jon Flick wrote a book called “The Bogus Buzz” under the pen name of Glen Keough. It features the exploits of five boys who escape the nuns and partake of the forbidden fruit of the 70s.
did not denounce capitalism but simply redistributed a small part of it so more people could thrive.
But his voice was suppressed by the party, and he was denied a platform to reach a larger audience. I felt betrayed, as did the many young people who got enthused about politics for the first time.
And now the DNC is about to repeat the same error. And it risks being even more devastating. For whether you appreciate Joe Biden and the relative stability he has brought us with his calm, stately demeanor, he is nonetheless a deeply flawed candidate who is being annihilated in the opposition media. And with good reason. We love ya, Joe, but you should be sunning in Rehoboth!
And yet Democratic voters are being offered no other choice. The DNC made the proclamation months ago that it’s Biden, Biden, Biden. A small cabal has dictated who should be our party leader. But does that sound like a free and fair election? OK, yes, I believe Biden could very well beat Trump when it comes right down to it. But really folks, can we take that chance? And is that the best we can do? I thought Biden was the placeholder.
It’s time for new leadership. There’s still 10 months to go, plenty of time. And the best that I’ve seen is Dean Phillips, the little-known Congressman from Minnesota who
Street Beat
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of battery of a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc. He was held on $10,000 bail.
Bench warrant. Walter Edmonds, 29, of Lakewood was arrested on suspicion of a felony bench warrant that was outside jurisdiction. He was held without bail.
Obstructing a peace officer, having a switchblade knife in vehicle, disorderly conduct. John Gerard Gleason, 62, of Anaheim was arrested on suspicion of obstructing a peace officer, having a switchblade knife in vehicle and alcohol-related disorderly conduct. He was held on $1,000 bail.
threw his hat in the ring 10 weeks ago. He’s our last hope, and a damn exciting one. I’m betting most of you have never heard of him. That’s partly because the party doesn’t want eyeballs on anyone else, lest they siphon votes away from the chosen one. And yet, in this week’s New Hampshire primary, Dean garnered 20% of the vote. Just imagine what he could have achieved if he was 20 weeks in.
He doesn’t demean or insult anyone. He compliments and congratulates both party candidates (how refreshing). He’s smart and articulate and fast on his feet with thoughtful centrist policies on immigration, education, and healthcare. He refuses to take PAC or special interest money and is the #2 bipartisan legislator in Congress. Meaning he leans across the aisle to get things done. He also likes Joe. Just thinks he can’t win. And that’s why he’s running.
Dean graduated from Brown and then was a very successful entrepreneur (Belvedere Vodka and Talenti Gelato) who’s now pursuing the biggest entrepreneurial gig of his lifetime. I believe it’s good to have someone with successful business experience in the driver’s seat. The US government is perhaps the world’s biggest corporation, requiring deft management. Dean Phillips represents a new generation of leadership who is more in touch with the real world than a 50-year political careerist who never
officer. Venus Saify, 41, was arrested on suspicion of alcohol-related disorderly conduct and battery on a peace officer. She was held on $500 bail.
Grand theft, robbery and destroying a wireless device. Conor Arthur Pilch, 28, was arrested on suspicion of grand theft (shoplifting), felony robbery and destroying a wireless device. He was held on $50,000 bail.
Monday, Jan. 21
Disorderly conduct. Sandy Estefan Valles, 26, of Lakewood, was arrested on suspicion of alcohol-related disorderly conduct. He was held on $500 bail.
ran a business and can’t read a balance sheet. He’s our best hope to turn the page on old, establishment thinking, on hopelessness and cynicism in government, and once again instill pride in this grand experiment called democracy.
Want more? His father died in Vietnam when he was a toddler. He’s only 53. And on the “guy you’d have a beer with” meter, he plays guitar - and hockey. Like a regular Midwesterner. Plus he’s funny. And that’s a bonus.
Dean’s a sensible, moderate Democrat who agrees with a lot of Republican policy. But he’s frustrated with the way politics are now played. And did I mention he’s 53?
I know he has a remote chance. But if enough people do what I’m doing – spreading the word – perhaps the Democratic party will feel pressured to at least have him debate Biden. Isn’t that our right in a free democracy –to hear from all the candidates and make up our own mind? Sure, I’ll vote for Biden if he’s the nominee. But I believe Dean Phillips has a far greater chance of beating Donald Trump and getting this country moving again. I am all in until the fat lady sings! If you want to know more, go the Dean24.com.
Billy is the CEO of La Vida Laguna, an outdoor adventure company Email: billy@lavidalaguna.com.
Three Cheers for Clean Windows
The Boys and Girls Club Canyon Branch Cheer Squad learned the values of teamwork and giving back to local businesses in Laguna Beach by hosting a store window-washing community service project on Jan. 18 in downtown Laguna. Participating businesses include Rock Martin, Roots, Eco Now! and Kebab Kurry.
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reform to quicken the process. Two bills recently introduced in Congress are The Big Wires Act and the Clean Energy Transmission Acceleration (CETA). If either one of them or something similar, can be enacted, OCPA would have more choices to acquire electricity from cheaper, reliable sources. Opening up supplies from other states allows a sound free market approach, driving down energy prices, reducing utility monopolies, and allowing smaller producers to participate in the new energy economy.
Jonathan Light, Laguna Niguel
Domestic violence. Diluches Whelan Ueki, 38, of Yakima, Wash., was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence with minor injury. He was held on $50,000 bail.
Sunday, Jan. 20
DUI. Arica Michele Flanagan, 40, of Irvine, was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and blowing on or over 0.08 percent blood alcohol level. She was held on $12,500 bail.
Bench warrant. Johnathan Christian Hattaway, 46, of Santa Ana, was arrested on suspicion of an outstanding bench warrant. Bail information wasn’t immediately available.
Disorderly conduct, battery on peace
DUI. John Vazquez, 19, of Riverside, was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and blowing on or over 0.08 percent blood alcohol level. He was held on $5,000 bail.
Bench warrant. Jordan Douglas Krah, 41, of Alamo, was arrested on suspicion of a felony bench warrant. Bail information wasn’t immediately available.
Possession of a controlled substance, controlled substance and controlled narcotic. Alexandra Shaw, 31, of San Diego, was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance and controlled narcotic. She was held without bail.
Tuesday, Jan. 22 No arrests.
Wednesday, Jan. 23 No arrests.
Thanks to the donations from Laguna Beach firefighters and police officers, the BGCLB Canyon Branch Cheer Squad worked together to use squeegees and water bottles to give back to the beautiful beach town.
On Forest Avenue, The Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach Cheer Squad brings local businesses to life during a recent window washing community service project. Photo/ Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach
