LBIndy 10.25.24 by Times Media Group

Barks and Blessings

Lagunans Gather to Pray for their Furry Friends

The Neighborhood Congregational Church hosted its annual Blessing of the Animals last Sunday, Oct. 20 in the NCC courtyard. The popular event invited animals of all shapes and sizes and their caretakers to be blessed by Pastor Rod Echols.

SCHOOL BOARD RACE: Margaret Walder Pushes for Educational Excellence

PAGE 3

TITLE ON THE LINE

Breakers to Battle Dana Hills Homecoming Night

PAGE 13

DODGING FOR DOUGH: SchoolPower raises 15K for Laguna Beach Schools

PAGE 20

Photos by Spencer Grant

• ROOFING REPLACEMENTS/REPAIRS

• BALCONY DECK STRUCTURAL RECONSTRUCTION

• ROOFING WATERPROOFING

• EXTENSIVE DRY ROT/TERMITE REPAIRS

• SHEET METAL FOR HARSH COASTAL ENVIRONMENTS

• IN DEPTH SPECIFICATION/STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

• INTERIOR DAMAGE REPAIRS

• BALCONY RAIL SYSTEM DESIGNS/GLASS/CABLE

• PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES

• DOOR & WINDOW REPLACEMENT

• STUCCO/PLASTER RECONSTRUCTION

• RAIN GUTTERS/CHIMNEY CAPS

• SKYLIGHTS/ATTIC VENTING SYSTEMS

Meet Margaret Warder: A Passion for Education

BY LB INDY STAFF

Margaret Warder, one of the five candidates running for a seat at the Laguna Beach Unified School Board this November, says she knows how to move the district to the next level of excellence.

“I have in-depth knowledge of what is taught in schools, especially elementary schools,” said Warder, an intervention para educator who worked mostly in the LBUSD Technology Departments for two decades. “During my tenure at LBUSD, I taught summer school every year as a classroom teacher at Thurston Middle School and the high school.”

Newly retired from the MultiTier Student Support Program (MTSS), Warder says she has a hands-on understanding of what and how the district can continue to improve students’ reading scores, which then filter to math and science.

Warder holds a sociology degree from Rutgers University and is a registered nurse. She has been president of the California School

Employees Association for 15 years and has served on numerous committees and groups, including the school site council, calendar committee, and reclassification for classified employees committee, among others.

If elected to the school board, Warder said her first goal is to end the decisiveness that has infiltrated LBUSD.

“We are an excellent district,” Warder said. “Our scores in math, reading and science are very good, and can always improve. We have the talent with our teachers, classified and instructional coaches, to be teaching at the cutting edge of education.”

Warder considers one of the school board’s biggest issues to be the air of preconceived dogma that “things are bad.”

“Some community members who do not have all the facts or have misinformation feel that they know when, in fact, they don’t know what is happening. Can we do better at the middle school and high school?” Warder asked.

Margaret Warder is one of the five candidates running for the LBUSD school board. Photo courtesy of Margaret Warder

“Yes, and numerous programs are already in place to alleviate the gap that COVID-19 created. The Multi-Tiered System of Supports program is in place at Thurston and is being worked into the classes at

• see WARDER page 20

theindypoll

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION: Are you in support of an Aliso Creek Estuary restoration project?

Yes or No

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: Should more be done to encourage e-Bike safety in Laguna?

Yes |

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. To minimize fraudulent entries and votes, the software is set to block duplicate votes by cookie and IP address. While we cannot control users who change locations and use separate devices on different networks, this measure is the most stringent way to deter participants from voting multiple times. No polling software available online can block all attempts at fraudulent voting, as there are ways around most blocking methods. For this reason, we can’t fully verify the accuracy of this poll. Language from Crowd Signal’s software settings: Voting in a poll is rate limited by IP, even when no blocking is enabled. This means that a large number of votes coming from a single Internet address will trigger a cooldown block to help prevent cheating. Sometimes this is tripped by many people at one location (for example in schools and offices) voting in a short period of time.

Re-Elect

ENDORSED BY

TOWN CRIER

IN AND AROUND LAGUNA BEACH

Local Business Owner

Honored

for Donor Advocacy

Longtime Laguna Beach resident

Heidi Miller was given the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Advocate Award Wednesday for her efforts to save lives through her Living Organ Donor Assistance Fund and other lifesaving activities.

Miller received the award at the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Awards Luncheon at the Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo. Miller has been a blood donor for 52 years, a platelet donor, and a bone marrow transplant donor for a best friend who lived 21 years after the transplant. In addition, Miller was a live kidney donor for Bruce Cook at Cedars Sinai in 2017, and Cook is now thriving.

She’s mentored 150 people and helped match 40, and 35 have had kidney transplants. She continues her advocacy with her Foundation Living Organ Donor Assistance Fund.

Interested in Publishing Your Novel or Memoir?

On Oct. 29 at 4 p.m., novelist and short story writer Randy Kraft will facilitate a free panel at the Susi Q Center, 380 Third Street, featuring three independently (self) published authors. They’ll discuss the pros and cons of this approach and suggest how writers can decide on the best option to suit their material, budget and objectives.

Panelist and author Deborah Gaal has published two novels under her own imprint. Synchronicities on the Avenue of the Saints won Writer’s Digest First Place for SelfPublished Mainstream/Literary Fiction in 2022.

Rebecca Lyles’ book – From the Errors of Others – is a collection of short, humorous essays. She published the book with a vanity press to guide her and handle the intricacies of the business. Pamela Knudsen published her illustrated

call Christine Brewer at 949-7158105.

A Talk on Healing and the Science of Christianity

The Laguna Beach Christian Science church is hosting a free lecture by Nikki O’Hagan, a fulltime Christian Science practitioner from County Kildare, Ireland, on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 10 a.m. Advances in science have brought paradigm shifts to our ways of understanding existence. Is it time for another major paradigm shift – a shift that would include God as the center of all existence? O’Hagan will address this question and the transforming, healing power it can hold. Her talk is entitled, “The science of God and its power to heal us.” It will be preceded by a piano recital by Melissa Murphy starting at 9:30 a.m. It will be held at First Church of Christ, Laguna Beach at 635 High Drive. Childcare provided.

Local Nonproﬁt Completes Educational Project for Nepalese Students

In August, R Star Foundation

children’s book with a hybrid publisher to share resources and secure marketing support. Facilitator Randy Kraft, a retired journalist and former communications strategist, has published three novels and one short story collection and is working on another. All ages are welcome. Underground parking is available. To attend, visit thesusiq.org and click on classes and registration, or • see CRIER page 22

LAUREN BOECK LAUREN BOECK

Award recipient Heidi Miller speaks at the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce Women in Business luncheon on Wednesday, Oct. 16. Photo courtesy of Paradise Photography OC

TeamLagunaINC_Combo_IndyAd_NEWsize_102524_X1A.pdf 1 10/23/24 7:17 PM

A common theme among our elected leaders is that the city does a good job of managing its finances. It’s true that Laguna Beach is blessed with a steady stream of lucrative tax revenues that is the envy of many surrounding cities. But, much like for a trust fund baby, having steady cash flows is different from exercising prudent stewardship of available financial resources.

We know the outside auditors have had a problem with city finances since at least as far back as 2018, when they started issuing a succession of negative reports on the city’s internal controls. We also know audit issues have never been never satisfactorily remedied.

Now we have the results of a survey conducted by Probolsky Research, published in May 2024 titled “City of Laguna Beach Voter Poll.” The survey covers a wide range of issues but has some interesting information about how residents feel about the city’s financial management. For example, when asked to agree or disagree with the statement “the city’s finances are generally well-

managed,” 48%, less than half, agreed.

In another question, the survey asked respondents to prioritize areas that were important to them, and then asked how satisfied they were with the city’s performance in those areas. Management of city finances was a priority for 40% of respondents, while only 22% were satisfied with the city’s performance.

The survey then presented two conflicting statements and asked respondents to agree with one of them. One statement, opposing sales tax increases, said “The city should spend the money it already gets more responsibly instead of trying to ask for more.” The competing statement, in support of an increase in sales tax to “invest in our community’s future and safety,” said “I am okay with a modest sales tax to help maintain and improve services.” 60% of the respondents agreed with the first statement, with only 28% agreeing with the second.

A reasonable conclusion is that while the city is fortunate to have a healthy stream of revenue, it does not get high marks, either from the auditors or the residents, for managing its finances. But there is hope. We have a new city manager who has committed to making city finances one of his priorities. To help him, he has hired a new director of finance

CITY HALL MEETINGS: Oct. 28 - Citizen's Audit Review and Investment Advisory Committee at 6 p.m.

HOW TO CONTACT THE CITY COUNCIL:

Sue Kempf Mayor skempf@ lagunabeachcity.net

Alex Rounaghi MayorProTem arounaghi@ lagunabeachcity.net

George Weiss Council member gweiss@ lagunabeachcity.net

Bob Whalen Council member bwhalen@ lagunabeachcity.net

who has an impressive background. They both deserve our support, and the support of the council.

Mary Locatelli, Laguna Beach

Should the school district administration really brag about recent California Department of Education statewide testing results? After all, it shows our kids received a C+ in English language arts (79%), C- in mathematics (70%) and D in science (65%). No one should be content with barely “passing” because we want, fund, and deserve more for our kids. Sadly, performance is even worse at high school. Here, the same testing finds that while these kids scored an “OK” B+ (87.5%) in English language arts, they struggled with a D (66.7%) in math and a D (62.1%) in science. That’s why the preeminent U.S. News ranking system scores college readiness for our kids, based on state-required tests and exams on college-level coursework, at an abysmal 48.5 out of 100. According to USNews, our 2024 college readiness performance ranks 211 statewide and 1,513 nationally.

Yet, our schools have fantastic taxpayer funding, ranking in the top echelon nationwide of per pupil spending at

• see LETTERS page 26

Mark Orgill Council member morgill@ lagunabeachcity.net

Ann Marie McKay CityClerk amckay@ lagunabeachcity.net

Laura Parisi CityTreasurer lparisi@ 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.ne | TOM GIBBS: tgibbs@lagunabeachcity.net

PLANNING COMMISSION | FIRST AND THIRD 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

ASSEMBLY WOMAN DIANE DIXON, 19712 MacArthur Blvd. Ste. 150, Irvine, CA 92612, 949-251-0074

FIFTH DISTRICT SUPERVISOR KATRINA FOLEY, 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92701, 714-834-3550, lisa.bartlett@ocgov.com

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schools & sports

FALL SPORTS UPDATE

CROSS COUNTRY

The Breakers squads were off last weekend and will run this weekend at the Mt. SAC Invitational on the course used for CIF. The league finals will be on Nov. 6 at Carbon Canyon Regional Park. For more information, see Girls XCC at lbxc.org and Boys XCC at lagunabeachcrosscountry.com.

FLAG FOOTBALL (6-12,

4-10)

Laguna’s second year of competition ended on Oct. 16 with a 19-7 loss to Irvine (7-12, 4-10). The team ended the season tied for sixth in the 8-team league, a jump from last year’s tied for 7th in the Sunset League.

FOOTBALL (7-1,

2-1)

The Breakers ran into an inspired Aliso Niguel (1-2, 5-3) squad last Friday night losing 34-14 to the Wolverines before an overflow homecoming crowd at their campus stadium. The Breakers struggled to stop Jarett Sabol, their speedy running back, all evening, who gained almost 200 yards against Laguna, scoring twice. The two schools traded opening drives for touchdowns that consumed all but one play of the first quarter. On the first play of the second quarter, Sabol broke for a 48-yard run for a score, and Laguna fumbled the ensuing kickoff, setting up a short 5-play 28-yard drive for the Wolverine’s third score at the 8:43 mark in the second quarter.

Both teams traded scoreless possessions until the final period, when Aliso scored early, followed by Laguna and Aliso in the closing moments.

Although Laguna is the highest-ranked team in the league this week, at #66, they need a win in one of the final two regularseason games to clinch a playoff automatic spot.

This week Friday, Oct. 25 vs #77 Dana Hills, 7 p.m. at Guyer Field

The league title is on the line as

unbeaten Dana is the opponent for Laguna’s 68th homecoming game and the celebration of the program’s 90th season of football.

The Dolphins and Laguna are tied 11-11-1 in history, with this 24th meeting the biggest game in the series that began in 1972.

Last week, the Dolphins defeated Fountain Valley 42-24, a team Laguna had little trouble with the previous week in a 50-7 victory.

Next week: Friday, Nov. 1 vs Orange 7 p.m. Guyer Field

The regular season ends with long-time rival Orange Panthers in a challenging game for LBHS Senior Night. Laguna and the Panthers first met in a 1936 league playoff game at the Santa Ana Bowl, won by Orange 187. The teams last met in 2017 in another Panther victory. They lead the series 12-5. See the Cal Preps website for ratings, schedules, scores, etc. at calpreps.com. Game video highlights are posted on Max Preps at maxpreps.com/ca.

GIRLS GOLF (2-9, 2-10)

The league championships were this past week. No report on

Laguna’s scores. BOYS SAND VOLLEYBALL (8-3, 3-2)

The Breakers lost their quarterfinal match to Edison, concluding the 2024 season.

OC League Quarterfinals at Main Beach, Oct. 17: Edison 6, Laguna 1

1. Kai Patchell / Dylan Sirianni 21-15, 21-15 - Won

2. Luke Singer / John Tavey 1021, 23-21 - Lost

3. James Vermilya/ Nico Lerum 12-21, 18-21 Lost

4. Perry Ribarich/ Grey Bulloch 21-17, 20-22, 13-15 Lost

5. Ben Goodwin / Leo Pardun 14-21, 19-21 Lost

4 Man (Patchell, Sirianni, Singer, Tavey) lost 28-21

GIRLS TENNIS (4-8, 3-4)

Laguna lost 13-5 to Sage Hill (12-6, 5-3) on Oct. 17 at Laguna. Rebecca MacCallum won her three single sets, and Rachael Jolley/Marlow Johnsen captured two of their three doubles sets. On Tuesday, Oct. 22, the squad easily defeated Rosary Academy 16-2 at the Fullerton Tennis Center. The

season concluded on Oct. 24 at St. Margaret’s. The league individual tournament will be held from Oct. 30-31.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL (625, 3-5) – Third Place – CIF Bound!

The Breakers opened their 48th appearance in the SSCIF playoffs this past Thursday, hosting Cantwell Sacred Heart of Mary from Montebello in a D7 firstround match. If the Breakers get by the Cardinals, they will face either San Luis Obispo Classical Academy or Barstow in away games this Saturday or Monday. The single-elimination playoffs are scheduled for Oct. 30, the semifinals on Nov. 2 and the finals on Nov. 9. Should Laguna reach the semifinals, it would qualify for the stage playoffs. Breakers are 111-42 (.724) in the SSCIF playoffs, reaching the quarterfinals 41 times, semifinals 28 times and finals 12 times. Schedules and results can be found at cifss.org.

BOYS WATER POLO (15-10,

LAGUNA SPORTS UPDATE | BY FRANK ARONOFF | LB INDY

Leo Adjemian (#70) and Redmond Chesley (#0) move in to stop Aliso. Wyatt Bogdan (#17), Henry Rounaghi (#3) and Tristan Reidel (#11) are key members of the Laguna defense. Photo by Debbie Vellmure

Your Elected Officials are Endorsing BOB WHALEN

State Senator Dave Min

Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris

OC Supervisor Katrina Foley

Mayor Sue Kempf, Mayor ProTem Alex Rounaghi and Councilmember Mark Orgill

Your Neighbors are Supporting BOB WHALEN

Gregg Abel, Kathleen Abel, Thomas Addis, Wendy Aird, Nicole Anderson, John Anderson, Peter Anderson, Faye Baglin, Wayne Baglin, Donna Ballard, Brad Barrett, Liza Barrett, Marlo Bartels, Rick Balzer, Mike Beanan, Bob Beck, Sue Beck, Walter Bell, Kristin Bell, Anne Belyea, Richard Belyea, Jeffrey Benedick, Carolyn Bent, Dr. Tom Bent, Dustin Beutin, Erin Beutin, Jamie Blakely, Barbara Bowler, Kelly Boyd, Michelle Boyd, David Braff, Pamela Broadman, Katharine Brown, Diane Brumbaugh, Mike Brumbaugh, Michael Bryan, Michael Byrne, Tim Carlyle, Lyn Carlyle, Marcia Caruso, Steve Chadima, Dr Janet Chance, Jen Chapman, Jon Chapman, Suzi Chavel, Lisette Chel-Walker, Mark Christy, Leticia Christy, Mary Clifford, Howard Conn, Rita Conn, Sally Coursen, Walt Coursen, Donnie Crevier, Laurie Crevier, Jason deBrettville, Joy Dittberner, Mick Donoff, Sharon Donoff, Ranney Draper, Mark Draper, Jorg Dubin, Jill Edwards, Steve Edwards, Leslie Elliot, Karen Ellis, Leanne Englander, Cody Engle, Deborah Engle, Michael Ervin, Sandy Ervin, Rich Fair, Lynne Fair, Cindy Fletcher, Ben Frydman, Lisa Gallas, Nancy Gibbs, Tom Gibbs, Joan Gladstone, Glenn Gray, Kathryn Burton Gray, Matt Gummow, Jane Hanauer, Joe Hanauer, Dan Haspert, Ashley Hathaway, Lori Hathaway, Tyler Hathaway, George Heed, Jerry Hornbeak, Renee Hornbeak, Paula Hornbuckle, Linda Hughes, Marshall Innins, Elizabeth Innins, Angela Irish, Alix Jirard, Bill Jirard, Michael Johnson, Anne Johnson, Marv Johnson, Kathy Jones, Mike Jones, Jan Kaplan, Ken Kaplan, Ellen Kempler, Roger Kempler, Diana Kersten, Cheryl Kinsman, Michael Kinsman, Cherylin Kirby, Ian Kirby, Cort Kloke, Diane Kloke, Pat Kollenda, Cathy Krinsky, David Krinsky, Tom Lamb, Morgan Lamb, Vicki Lamb, Mary Lawson, Matt Lawson, April Lindstrom, Barbara MacGillivray, Greg MacGillivray, Katherine Maeberger, Thomas Magill, Lisa Mansour, John Mansour, Dana Marron, Armando Marron, Barbara McMurray, Ken McMurray, Gwen McNallan, Carla Meberg, Jeff Meberg, Gregory Mech, John Meehan, Jeanne Meyers, Angie Miller, Heidi Miller, Penny Milne, Bob Mister, Stephanie Mister, Gary Monroe, Leslie Monroe, Jon Moore, Mia Moore, Brian Muehlbauer, Coby Naess, Janelle Naess, Debbie Naude, Paul Naude, Mike Nelson, Stephanie Nelson, Larry Nokes, Cathy Nokes, Carol Normandin, Barbara Norton, Dora Orgill, Bill O’Hare, Theresa O’Hare, Paula Olson, George Orff, Sharon Orff, Derek Ostensen, Natalia Ostensen, Ken Parker, Elizabeth Pearson, Anne Petronave, Lance Polster, Mark Porterfield, Monica Prado, Cindy Prewitt, Ann Quilter, Chris Quilter, Teddie Ray, Kavita Reddy, Jeff Redeker, Suzanne Redfearn, Beth Renner, Bill Renner, Billy Renner, Tommy Renner, Maggie Renner, Molly Renner, Carrie Reynolds, Mike Reynolds, Emily Rolfing, Glenn Rosen, Ali Rounaghi, Robin Rounaghi, Jeff Rovner, Dave Rubel, Ryan Sabol, Ken Sadler, Annie Sadler, Kirk Saunders, Mary Kate Saunders, Ed Sauls, Lisa Sauls, Wendy Schirripa, Dan Scinto, Francine Scinto, Peggy Sexton, John Sganga, Marcus Skendarian, Morris Skenderian, Stephany Skenderian, Ivan Spiers, San Marrie Stone, Lea Stone, Zeda Stone, Linda Supowitz, David Supowitz, Keith Swayne, Cheryl Sykes, Sasha Talebi, Kristine Thalman, Sean Tiner, Diana Tomei, Jeff Tomei, Edie Tonkin, Duane Vajgrt, Lauri Venturelli, Becky Visconti, Jinger WallaceChris Weidhaas, Susan Weidhaas, Louis Weil, Kirsten Whalen, Susan Whitin, Kristin Winter, Ralph Winter, Josh Wolff, Peggy Wolff, Deb Young, Robert Zur Schmiede and many more

Recognized Expert in Public Finance

• 40 year legal advisor to cities, counties, school districts and other public agencies

Experienced Public Official

• Laguna Beach City Council - 12 years

• Laguna Beach School Board - 10 years, • Laguna Beach Planning Commission - 4 years

• Project Youth OCEmeritus Board Member and Past President And here’s why:

Committed Community Volunteer

• Past President SchoolPower, Boys & Girls Club, Laguna Beach Little League

• Laguna Art Museum Board Member

•Orange County Community Foundation Board of Governors

NOVEMBER 5

street beat

EXCERPTS FROM POLICE BLOGS

Thursday, Oct. 17

No arrests recorded.

Friday, Oct. 18

Bench warrant. Daniel James Moretti, 45, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of two outstanding bench warrants. He was held without bail.

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Smoking in a prohibited area. John Paul Denny, 45, Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of smoking in an area of employment, which is prohibited. He was held without bail. Fugitive from justice. Christopher Andrew Cote, 37, of Westminster was arrested on suspicion of possessing unlawful paraphernalia and a felony charge of being a fugitive from justice. He was held without bail.

Bench warrant. Edward Patrick Schillizzi, 69, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of fail-ure to appear on two misdemeanor charges. His bail was set at $5,500.

Saturday, Oct. 19

Battery. John Paul Denny, 45, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of battery on a person. His bail was held at $500.

Sunday, Oct. 20

DUI. A 34-year-old Laguna Beach woman was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. Her bail was set at $2,500.

Battery. Tasse Helene Younker, 61, of Laguna Niguel was arrested on suspicion of battery on a spouse, exspouse or date, etc. Her bail was set at $10,000.

DUI. A 41-year-old Cupertino woman was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. Her bail was set at $2,500.

FDI-1867N-A AECSPAD 23506607

Possession of a controlled substance, possessing unlawful paraphernalia, being on the beach after closing. Miguel Angel Molohua Tlaxcala, 27, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of Pos-session of a controlled substance, possessing unlawful paraphernalia, and entering or remaining on the beach after closing time. His bail was set at $1,000.

Sheri Morgan

I’m running for the School Board to bring much-needed change. Our community’s voice has been ignored, and disagreement is treated as a ‘grievance’ instead of an opportunity for improvement. The $150 million ‘starting point’ for a Facilities Master Plan, proposed an aquatic facility without community or city input, wasted taxpayer dollars. Now, $100 Million it still misses the mark. We spend $33,000 per student, yet only 21% goes to programming and curriculum. Instead of investing in learning opportunities, the District and Board leadership turned away Special Education students while pushing thru excessive development plans. We need leadership who listens.

change. Our kids deserve the best. Sheri will be ready on Day One. We need her on the Board”

“The true power of our community comes from its diverse voices, and by valuing each perspective, we can work together for effective solutions.”

GUEST OPINION: GREEN LIGHT

Aliso Creek’s Restoration Should Not Be a Redevelopment Project

I have long pined for the restoration of Aliso Creek. The image I have in mind approximates the evocative painting of the site by former Laguna artist extraordinaire, William Wendt.

Unfortunately, I saw too little of that depiction in the staff report on this agenda item at the Oct. 22 City Council meeting. The same is true for the public discussion and council remarks following that report. Instead, official deliberations walked us through the weeds of Arundo removal, mosquito abatement, the fine-point distinctions between conceptual and schematic plans

and the relationship between a preEIR (Environment Impact Report) technical report and an EIR. Amid this blizzard of important details, the public learned that an amphitheater at the site is envisioned by some planners, as well as an interpretive center and children’s playground. I’m all for the children’s playground, which is already on the site. The proposed

BY TOM OSBORNE

interpretive center is out of scale with the site and arguably unnecessary. And an amphitheater? For me, the built environment thereby becomes too intrusive, too much and too expensive. My concern is that what started as an engaging estuary restoration endeavor of great promise is morphing into an urban

• see OSBORNE page 22

9 DAYS OF FILMS & MUSIC 70 FILMS & 15 BANDS

TOM OSBORNE

HOWARD

Proven Public Service Experience and Competence

Proven Compassion for Kids, Families, School Community

POSITIVE CHANGE MEANS A NEW BEGINNING FOR NEW SCHOOL BOARD

• Empowering kids to thrive in safe schools

• Enhance civic competence in School Board proceedings

• Invest in modernized facilities for current and future students

• Set new standard of fairness and transparency for students, parents, taxpayers, public

• Continue what succeeds, change instead of defending what has not succeeded

• Diversity of experience and occupations on Board to better represent diverse community

HOWARD HILLS:

Decades of Service In Laguna Beach Public Schools

As Student (1962-1970):

- LBHS Education Club Founder & President 1968-69

- Student Teacher, El Morro School 1969

- LBHS Student Body President 1969-70

- ASB Award 1970

- Youth Representative, Laguna Beach Greenbelt SteeringCommittee (1969-70)

As Parent, Grandparent, Alumni:

- Hosted LBHS Model UN Team, State Department, Washington DC

- LBHS Scholarship Foundation Donor

- LBHS Drama Department Donor

- School Power Donor

- LBHS Girls Soccer Team Boosters

- Thurston Middle School Surf Team Boosters

- Parent Escort-Thurston Middle School Catalina Marine Science Program

- Thurston Middle School Career Day Speaker

GUEST OPINION: PET PEEVES

Puppy Love

One of my wife's contributions is to keep in contact with family and friends. She comes back to tell me what is going on in the outside world. If it wasn't for her, I'd end up talking to a volleyball named Wilson.

The other day, she informed me that one of our Midwest friends' children had fallen in love. Now, this wouldn't be a big deal, but the kid is nine years old and in fourth grade. I don't know this kid well and have only had an occasional lunch with him and his family. I do know that he has never offered to pick up the check.

come up with a baby name, so they named him Anagram. When he was old enough, they told him to come up with his own name out of the letters available in Anagram. Also, they thought it was a bonus that everybody the kid would run into in life could make up a nickname for him. So far, it's gone like this, "What's your name?" He answers, "Anagram." The other kid says, "What? I'm supposed to make out a name for you?" Anagram answers, "Right." The kid yells, "Don't want to. I'd rather rearrange your face instead."

can't talk back. You need to talk to mom about this." Anagram looks up from his book, "I will when she writes her autobiography."

BY MARK D. CRANTZ

but not reported to their parents or the IRS. The boys are dutiful savers. Life's secure, so far. Mot and Anagram are going about the business of being brothers in name only. One reads about life. The other is living life. Both are unaware of the ending. They have settled into a nice symbiotic relationship. They don't kill each other.

Mot and Anagram could not be more different. Anagram is older by a couple of years. He's very studious. Mot is the polar opposite. Mot is always looking for a good time, so long as, it doesn't involve a book. Mot asked his brother once, "Why do you read all the time?" Anagram answered, "I like it. Books are my friends." Mot hesitates for a second. Then blurts out, "You're weird. You can't talk to books. They

In spite of their differences, Mot and Anagram get along great. They share a bedroom. The parents Add and Omm…oh forget this. You, readers, are all smarty pants and have figured out that Add is Dad and Omm is Mom. Dad and Mom are typical parents. They have no idea how to raise children. They pretend to know. They talk to their neighbors and ask, "Are you scared of them, too?" Dad and Mom have relied on social media for advice. One text advised, "Take them to the fire station. Leave them there." While another text suggested, "Get them on TikTok. The Chinese will shoot at their feet and teach them to dance."

The brothers have been taught the importance of saving their money. They have online banking accounts set up for allowances, birthday money and money gotten,

According to my wife's information, Mot fell hard over a girl, a classmate. I look up from my book, "Why?" My wife says, "Did you just say why, as in, why did Mot fall in love?" I'm back into my book and barely hear her. "Yes, why?" My wife, who is getting red in the cheeks and neck fires back, "It's the natural thing to do. Nobody understands love. You don't get the explanation from a book. Love just happens. It's happened to Mot." My wife left the room without waiting for my reply. "Why?" I mutter for the third time.

I've used anagrams to protect the people's identities in this story. We'll call the first person Add. The second person is Omm. The other is Mot. Mot has a brother, Anagram. No readers, his true name is Anagram. His parents couldn't • see CRANTZ page 25

MARK D. CRANTZ

GUEST OPINION:

A Blast From the Past

As we prepare to cast our votes for individuals to serve us as city council members for the next four years, I’m reminded of a letter I wrote in 2016 outlining the need for responsible and responsive leadership. It was published in the Indy on Oct. 13, 2016. I believe it’s worth sharing today.

A Thousand Steps Closer

As a longtime Laguna property owner and resident I am pleased to say that South Laguna is finally on the radar screen of city leaders. To hear them speak lately, not only are they putting residents first, but they finally say it’s time to throw a little recognition and support South Laguna’s way. This is a historical moment as we haven’t had this much attention since we officially incorporated almost 30 years ago. Quite frankly, we owe this new-

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found attention to City Council candidate Judie Mancuso whose love for South Laguna started when she lived near Thousand Steps Beach. She remembers well our pristine beaches and peaceful community. If it weren’t for Judie responding to our mounting quality of life concerns and bringing them to the center of this election, South Laguna would still be an afterthought to the other candidates as we have been for decades. They have all had ample time to listen and perform. There’s no question that the sudden interest in us will be shortlived if Judie is not elected.

The issues that plague all of us are real and must be addressed and resolved. We won’t survive the status quo folks. We cannot accept leaders from days gone by who have not protected our community at large while in control of our destiny. We are living with the results of unmanaged tourism, inconceivable gridlock, a rise in property and violent crime, inadequate sidewalks and parking, wastewater

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dumping off Aliso endangering our ocean environment, an increase in transients, homeless, rehab facilities and short-term rentals in our neighborhoods, and inconsistent and selective governing by officials who have seriously jeopardized Laguna for special interests.

Enough is enough! I am voting for Judie Mancuso for City Council and I encourage others to join me. She is beholding to no-one and she will not wavier in her commitment to putting residents needs first, embracing progressive concepts such as Complete Streets and Vision Zero to improve mobility and safety in our town, and protecting our precious open space, marine and wildlife.

The way I see this election and the wonderful opportunity it presents to us is we can select an amazing role model who will set a positive course for change in motion and who will encourage Laguna’s next generation to step up as tomorrows leaders.

Honor Judie with your vote!

MJ Abraham, Laguna Beach

• STREET BEAT

Cont. from page 10

Monday, Oct. 21

Disorderly conduct. Jadeanne Lynsey Douglas, 40, of Irvine was arrested on suspicion of disor-derly conduct. Her bail was set at $500.

Receiving known stolen property. Ali Rezaie, 35, of Irvine was arrested on suspicion of receiving stolen property that was known to be stolen. His bail was set at $20,000.

DUI, contempt of court. Shazeem Afzal Thawerboy, 36, of Irvine was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and disobeying a court order. His bail was set at $35,000.

Tuesday, Oct. 22

Bench warrant. Victor Hugo Hernandez, 36, of Santa Ana was arrested on suspicion of an out-standing bench warrant. He was held without bail.

Wednesday, Oct. 23

Disorderly conduct. Allison Susan Goode, 44, of Irvine was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct. Her bail was set at $500.

BY MJ ABRAHAM

Sadly, Judie Mancuso was not elected then, and nothing has been resolved over the last eight years. In fact, we are still discussing the same issues, and many of the community concerns noted have gotten much worse. One area that has changed is the Council governing style we are seeing today—not everyone is convinced our elected officials are acting on behalf of the general will or maintaining our inclusive democratic government. It is a genuine concern.

We should not allow this to happen. This is just one of the many reasons I am voting for Judie Mancuso for City Council. Her professionalism, energy and successful impacts on city and state government decisions as well as her honest values and community commitment, never waver. Judie knows how to get things done.

MJ Abraham is a Laguna Beach resident and founder of Laguna Beach CHAT.

• WARDER

Cont. from page 3

the high school. Loss in learning is not resolved in a year or two; it takes time and dedication from highly qualified teachers and classified staff.”

Warder said she is also strongly interested in pursuing Spanish as an intense course at each elementary school.

“I am the only candidate with a day-to-day hands-on understanding of LBUSD,” Warder said. “Furthermore, I have the insight to raise my daughter in the school district where she attended all four schools. I have the insight as a parent, but working with staff and students is a totally different set of observation skills.”

LBUSD School Board President Jan Vickers is running for reelection in November, while board member Kelly Osborne will not seek another term. Lauren Boeck, Sheri Morgan and Howard Hills are also running for one of the two open school board seats.

MJ ABRAHAM

Aliso Creek Estuary May See Big Changes Ahead

Aliso Creek Restoration Project Kicks Off with the City Supporting, But Public Concerns Persist

BY JACKIE CONNOR | LB INDY

The Aliso Creek estuary could see a complete restoration, according to a motion cast by the city council on Tuesday. In a key move toward these plans, council members unanimously agreed to move forward with conceptual plans brought by the Laguna Ocean Foundation, consolidating technical studies needed to advance the project. These studies will help determine the environmental and structural impacts of the proposed restoration project.

The Laguna Ocean Foundation divided the project into three components: estuary lagoon expansion and restoration, decreasing the estuary mouth breach and reducing dry weather flow.

“The goal about improving water quality and reducing dry flow—I think that’s something everyone in this room should want because it’s how we have cleaner ocean water and we have an opportunity now where we are getting a couple

million dollars through Moulton Niguel exiting their obligation under the coastal treatment plan,” said Alex Rounaghi, Mayor Pro Tem, referencing Tuesday’s city council attendees.

Additionally, the council approved preparations for a scope of work for an Environmental Impact Report (EIR), marking a critical milestone before final decisions on the project’s feasibility. The project includes restoring the estuary’s functionality, such as removing invasive plant species and mitigating water flow, upgrading public spaces, adding an interpretive center and improving pedestrian access. The project would also replace parking lots and paved areas with mobility hubs encouraging alternate transportation such as buses and trolleys, updated restrooms, trails and seating areas, and a pedestrian bridge over the estuary.

Though public input remains both supportive and skeptical, the council stressed the need for further

technical evaluations within the proposed EIR to address lingering concerns, such as berm control, endangered species awareness and mosquito populations.

“With very little rain, we’d be worried about mosquitoes …and other insects we wouldn’t want to necessarily see,” said Mayor Sue Kempf. “We see quite frequently when we’ve had a lot of rain, a lot of water coming down and you have to breach the berm, it typically heads north, and I’ve been down many times where it looks like these homes are imperiled.”

Residents expressed both enthusiastic support and skeptical caution for the proposed project. Some residents and environmental advocates consider restoration essential to protecting and revitalizing the natural habitat.

“The estuary will become a vital and healthy resource eventually, for the marine protected areas, and for the beauty and well-being of Laguna and all its inhabitants,” said

Charlotte Masarik, Laguna Blue Belt board member. “Restoring the estuary is a perfect example of stewardship and will be a key addition to Lagunas protection of our public lands.”

On the other end of the spectrum, some residents expressed concerns and skepticism about the project’s feasibility and transparency, questioning conflicting information presented by the city and the Laguna Ocean Foundation. Adam ReddingKaufman, local surfer, questioned the water flow management, pointing out that records of the creek’s dynamic nature question the validity of the historical perspective.

“The Laguna Beach Historical Society has, like, 50 pictures of the creek between 1890 and 1920, and every single picture is different,” said Kaufman. “Every single picture, the creek is in a different zone… So when they say they’re going to restore it to historical, I don’t even

Laguna Beach Democratic Club Voter Guide

Annual Dodgeball Tourney Raises Almost $15K for SchoolPower

BY LB INDY STAFF

More than 370 costumed players from 47 teams bounced, blasted and bumped balls at Laguna Beach High School for SchoolPower’s 12th annual Dodgeball Tournament on Oct. 10.

“The dodgeball tournament is the best. Seeing the boys and girls play together in a light-hearted and competitive sport with hilarious costumes is so much fun for the kids and parents,” said Zane Sweet, whose son played for Da Evil Minions.

The popular event raised over $14,000 for SchoolPower, a nonprofit education foundation that has supported Laguna Beach public schools since 1981.

The event “is the perfect opportunity for our community to come together,” first-time coach of the Eminem’s Craig Ballard said. “It’s a great reminder of how lucky we are to live in this beautiful city surrounded by people who really care.”

Dodgeball XII was presented by law firm Hueston Hennigan. Livel Real Estate Meital Taub Luxury Group, Ballesteros Real Estate Group, Willhoit Construction, DiGiovanni Orthodontics, Hobie

Surf Shop and The Ranch at Laguna Beach joined as court sponsors.

Masterminded by dodgeball chairs Christy and Brian Rayburn, Tuesday’s event could not have happened without the support of hundreds of parent coaches, cheering spectators and, volunteer referees and timekeepers.

Carrie Gardner’s El Morro kindergarten and first grade kids were there to cheer on their older friends—and admire the costumes.

“It’s our favorite spectator sport of the year,” she said.

Exuberant costumes, including sparkles, wild wigs, eye-popping colors, and tutus, could be seen in every corner of the gyms. A DJ in the LBHS courtyard boosted the excitement, plus players enjoyed Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, Wigz sandos, tacos and snacks.

Masters of Ceremonies Christy Rayburn, Erin Berryman and Stacey Johnson announced action on the courts in both LBHS gyms. Competition between teams was fast and furious across all three divisions; focus was fierce, and cheers erupted at each match rotation.

Thurston seventh-grade student Destin Deng embraced the spirit of teamwork at the event.

“Dodgeball is one of the things I look forward to every year. Thank you so much to our coach and all of the parents who made this happen,” he said.

Beyond bragging rights, champions from each division won up to $500 in prize money to designate to a school program of their choice.

"From costumes to gameplay, the afternoon was filled with happy kids, proud parents, and intense competition. The volunteers were amazing. The entire event was well organized. SchoolPower really knows how to bring our community together," said sixth-grade parent Maria St. John.

Division Winners

3rd-4th - UntouchaBALLS

5th-6th - Da Evil Minions 7th-8th - Ninja Balls

Best Costume Winners

3rd-4th - Eminem’s 5th-6th - Da Evil Minions 7th-8th - Baby Ballers

The Purple Cobras, a 3rd-4th division team, ready themselves for the next game at SchoolPower’s Dodgeball Tournament. Photo by Pia Zierhut

The Dodge Guards, Coach Bryan Harper and daughter Ava at SchoolPower’s Dodgeball Tournament. Photo courtesy of SchoolPower

Best Costume Winners for the 5th-6th Division, The Wizards of Dodge, at SchoolPower’s Dodgeball Tournament. Photo courtesy of Michelle Harper

The Dodgers with a dominating division win at SchoolPower’s Dodgeball Tournament. Photo courtesy of LBUSD

GUEST OPINION

How My Diagnosis Led me to Advocacy

Nearly one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in their lifetimes and 85% of women diagnosed have no family or genetic history. These are sobering statistics that I had heard before – especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month – yet I never fathomed I would be one of them.

Being raised on Thousand Steps Beach in Laguna Beach (LBHS class of 2002), a yogi, a mom of two young girls, and an active environmentalist, my lifestyle was all about being active, educated, and healthy. I thought I did everything right. I never smoked, ate mostly organic, meditated and taught yoga. I had no family history of breast cancer and tested negative for the BRCA gene variants. There wasn’t a reason for me to believe breast cancer would ever enter my life.

But a year ago, at age 39, as I was getting dressed to go to a local concert with my husband, I felt a hard lump in my upper left breast/ ribcage area. My life changed in an instant. I was shocked to learn I would become a number in this statistic. I went from working as a leader in the healthcare industry to grappling with a myriad of challenges as a stage 3 breast cancer patient trying to access the right care for my condition. I immediately went on leave from work for seven months, started five and a half months of chemo and lost all my hair. I then had a double mastectomy, six weeks of radiation, an oophorectomy and a hysterectomy. I am now on maintenance medications for 10 years.

Like so many others with breast cancer, I thought, “Why me?” But this journey has given me the resolve to turn this notion around and say, “Why not me?” – and advocate for better access to services that those with breast cancer need to thrive.

Recently, I led an initiative at my company, Cigna Healthcare (a large insurer), to offer more customized support and benefits to our customers with breast cancer. The key here was recognizing that the journey can look different for every person. Thus we are doing a number of things to bring about a more personalized approach, which include:

Connecting patients to a condition-specific oncology personal nurse advisor. Cigna Healthcare understands that a cancer diagnosis comes with its own unique challenges. Cigna supports patients by connecting them with a condition-specific oncology nurse who is specially trained in oncology conditions such as breast cancer. The advisors share advice and strategies for coping with the unpleasant aspects of treatment, including the side effects of potent chemotherapy. For example, before starting chemotherapy, patients are advised to microblade their eyebrows as they

BY MARGAUX CURRIE

may lose their eyebrows quickly. Additionally, patients being treated with Adriamycin learn they should suck on ice during treatments to prevent mouth sores, and patients undergoing Taxol infusions are counseled to wear mittens and booties to minimize the risk of developing neuropathy in their hands and feet. Targeted support for breast cancer is unique in the healthcare industry, and this approach provides holistic assistance, addressing a customer’s medical, pharmaceutical, and behavioral needs throughout their cancer treatment.

Partnering with the Know Your Lemons Foundation to offer its breast cancer awareness app and new Know Your Lemons at Work package to nearly 12 million customers and eligible family members. The app provides information about the symptoms of breast cancer, self-exams, and

MARGAUX CURRIE

Steve Suer, President

• CRIER

Cont. from page 4

announced an educational project for Shree Sansaridevi Basic School in Namo Buddha, Nepal. The project was completed in record time in three weeks. It competed in September with desks, computers and a teaching monitor in place. The computer project serves over 173 children, complimented with a huge 85-inch monitor used for classroom teaching. The children are excited to have state-of-theart computer education in their rural area. The classroom has been in full use since September. A formal dedication/inauguration of the computer room, equipment and computers will be done this December during R Star’s founder Rosalind Russell, stay in Nepal to oversee projects, including goat gifting.

Russell states that she would prefer not to be honored because those who did the work by extending their efforts won’t be present, but Nepali culture is sweet. Russell is looking for an able-bodied volunteer assistant to accompany her for part of the trip to help and perhaps view the inauguration or

gifting of goats. If interested in such an opportunity, email or call her directly at the listing below. Those interested in learning more about R Star’s efforts can email Russell at rosalind@ rstarfoundation.org, visit rstarfounation.org or call 949-4974911.

Notes For Hope: A Concert to Beneﬁt Friendship Shelter

Sam Sweeney, a local Boy Scout and high school student, is hosting a concert on Oct. 26 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. to raise money for outdoor furniture and communal items for Laguna Beach Friendship Shelter. The performance will take place at Bridge Hall, Neighborhood Congregational Church, 340 St. Ann’s Drive. "My grandmother was a leading force in establishing the Shelter so it hits close to my heart," Sweeney, who is working toward his Eagle Scout recognition. Sweeney will perform "a tasty blend of modern jazz fusion and original music" with other high school students from the Orange County School of the Arts music program.

The requested donation is $20.

Golf

Cart Halloween Parade

The Laguna Beach Golf Cart Club is hosting its annual Halloween parade on Oct. 27 at 5:30 p.m. The parade will stage at the top of Popular Street to the bottom of Cress Street. The route will wind its way through downtown before concluding on Glenneyre Street.

Public Invited to Rivian Electric Vehicle Donation

The city is hosting a special event at Main Beach Park on Nov. 4 at 4 p.m. to celebrate the donation of two Rivian R1S electric SUVs from the California-based automaker to the city. The donation initiates the city’s transition to zero-emission fleet vehicles, moving away from gas-powered options. The Rivian R1S electric vehicles will be incorporated into the Marine Safety Department’s fleet for a trial period of three years, allowing the city to assess their performance in critical operational environments, such as beach patrols and emergency response. The donation

also includes collaboration with Rivian to outfit the vehicles with emergency response gear and city decals. A reception will follow at Rivian South Coast Theater, located at 162 South Coast Highway.

A Spooky Good Time with Opera Laguna

Opera Laguna is teaming up with local acclaimed composer Pamela Madsen to bring you an opera in workshop at the Rivian Theatre on Oct. 28 at 6 p.m. Opera Laguna has commissioned a series of operatic works based on Laguna’s hidden history and freaky folklore. The evening will present a world premiere performance of the first of many ghost stories based on real events in Laguna. Prepare yourself for an evening of subtle scares and become part of the process of writing the opera itself. You may even learn a thing or two about the history of Laguna Beach and see a few familiar freaky faces, too. Come with a light appetite and a dry whistle. Seating is first come, first serve. Standing room is available. To RSVP, visit operalaguna.com.

Cont. from page 12

redevelopment project to rescue and upgrade a blighted creek bed. This seems to me like mission creep and raises a red flag.

Laguna went through a similar morphing of plans for the Village Entrance. Fortunately, the citizenry dispensed with grandiose plans for a parking structure and more and settled into a rightly scaled, aesthetically pleasing landscape, expertly designed by Bob Borthwick, Ann Christoph, and Ruben Flores.

An understated, nature-based approach is what City Hall should aim for in restoring the Aliso Creek Estuary. So, dump the idea of an amphitheater and the expense of an interpretive nature center could be avoided by simply providing restored nature itself where such a center would otherwise be built. In its place tastefully post educational

signage. The signage idea, in lieu of a nature center, was my wife Ginger’s contribution to this column. The key point here is that a more modest and less costly restoration plan will likely give Laguna Beach more nature and the ambience that I expect many of us value and hope for.

During the public comment portion, more than a dozen attendees spoke. On the affirmative side, Council candidate Judie Mancuso emphasized “saving and restoring the [site’s] biodiversity is priceless.”

Mark Christy asserted, “the Ranch was wholeheartedly in support of the project.” Similarly, Ed Sauls remarked, “what a gem this estuary can be.” Mike Mariner stressed that “the estuary is the missing piece” in Laguna’s ecosystem. Jinger Wallace, Mike Beanan and Charlotte Masarik of the Laguna Bluebelt Coalition championed the project,

as did Ray Hiemstra of Orange County Coastkeeper. Local artist Karen Schwager favored the project, urging that the restored estuary be a site for quiet reflection. Among the naysayers were three members of the same family: Robert V. McMahon, Joann McMahon and Kate McMahon. They stressed concern about stagnant water and mosquitos and objected to the loss of parking places at the site. Moreover, they did not favor building “an amphitheater and a visitors’ center.”

Adam Kaufman questioned which historic depiction, among many, of the former estuary should guide the project? Greg Viviani decried the cost to taxpayers. Former Councilmember Toni Iseman said the city should focus on other unspecified priorities. Overall, more people spoke in favor than against the project.

After nearly three hours of deliberation, the council voted unanimously to take steps toward triggering an EIR, which would address the manifold technical and other issues in this project.

I’ll conclude by quoting a letter from the Acjachemen tribe, whose communication arrived too late to be included in the agenda packet: “Aliso Creek is located in the core of our territory. We want to emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy ecosystem that supports the native wetland, fish, and wildlife; which are essential to our lifeways. We ask that the Laguna Beach City Council green-light a full public environmental review for the Aliso Creek Estuary.” Amen to that.

Tom Osborne is an environmental historian. With his wife, Ginger, he coleads the Laguna chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby. tomosborne@cox.net

• OSBORNE

GUEST OPINION: THE FOLEY REPORT

BY KATRINA FOLEY

Supporting Public Safety and Celebrating Our Veterans

BY KATRINA FOLEY

Happy October, Laguna Beach!

Emergency Lifeguard Boat Slips

As your Supervisor, your safety remains my top priority. Last month, I hosted a meeting with Orange County Harbor Patrol, the City of Laguna Beach, OC Parks, and Bellingham Marine to coordinate renovations to the Harbor Patrol Docks. Laguna Beach Mayor Sue Kempf, Mayor Pro Tem Alex Rounaghi along with their Chief Lifeguard and City Manager also joined us. We discussed the plan to bring the City of Laguna Beach’s Wave Watch Lifeguard Patrol Boat into the Dana Point Harbor Patrol docks. Coordinating vessels and various county agencies will help shorten response times and streamline logistics.

Support Proposition 36: I hope you’ll join me in supporting

Proposition 36 this November. On October 8, 2024, the OC Board of Supervisors formally endorsed Proposition 36. Normally, I am not a huge fan of the County taking positions on Propositions or other voter initiatives, but passing Proposition 36 is too important. Our communities deserve to feel safe. We can no longer tolerate a culture of crime in the State of California. Proposition 36 implements many of the commonsense public safety reforms needed to keep our communities safe, reduce homelessness, and combat the fentanyl epidemic, including implementing Senator Tom Umberg’s SB-44. Senate Bill 44 requires a warning of possible murder charges for selling or providing drugs that result in an overdose. Even though a majority of State Senators co-sponsored the bill, SB44 failed to make it through the Senate Public Safety Committee. Proposition 47, which the voters passed in 2014, reduced penalties for retail theft; single thefts under $950

are not classified as felonies. Prop 36 fixes that loophole, the effects of which we feel throughout Orange County. For me, this is personal. After the house across the street from mine converted to a detox home, burglars ransacked my home in Costa Mesa three times. In my district, many high-profile shootings and brazen robberies hit Fashion Island in Newport Beach, where criminals drove their cars into stores and stole hundreds of thousands in merchandise before fleeing back to Los Angeles. Someone released because of Prop 47 tried to steal a tourist’s handbag and instead, ran her over and killed her. This is unacceptable and we must do better to stop crime for our families and future generations.

BESS Update:

The Board also enacted a directive for staff to create a model ordinance for Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). We must expand grid capacity, but not at the expense of neighborhood safety or increased

fire risk. I first became aware of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facility within a wildfire hazard zone from concerned residents in San Juan Capistrano and Mayor Pro Tem Stephanie Oddo of Laguna Niguel. While a key component for expanded grid capacity and electrification, BESS facilities located next to residential communities, or in wildfire-prone areas, present legitimate safety concerns and may create unintended consequences on an already strained homeowners’ insurance market.

The OC Board of Supervisors possesses limited authority to regulate these facilities. However, we hope that by creating a model ordinance for cities to adopt, we can provide clear guidelines for responsible BESS facility development.

Veteran of the Year Awards

Finally, we’re less than one month

• CURRIE

Cont. from page 21

what to expect during screenings. It also teaches men how to support all women in their lives impacted by breast cancer and the importance of getting screened. Additionally, it helps men understand their own risk because men can get breast cancer, too.

Raising breast cancer awareness among our customers and encouraging regular screenings. Customers of Cigna Pharmacy may receive mammogram reminders on the top of their prescription bottles in October and November and/or text message reminders in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Margaux was raised in Laguna Beach and now lives in San Diego with her husband, dog and two young girls. When not working Margaux loves reading, exploring museums, and practicing yoga. She is a recent stage 3 breast cancer survivor and using her role to raise breast health awareness and drive change. Margaux leads Cigna’s commercial Medical Clinical Solutions & Strategy, including oncology, with 20 years of experience in product and strategy roles.

• ESTUARY

Cont. from page 18

think we have a clear definition of historical. The Thurstons, who were the first white settlers in Laguna, defined it as constantly changing.”

While several hurdles remain, including coordination among landowners who own parts of the property surrounding the estuary including owners of The Ranch, South Coast Water District in addition to numerous government agencies, the council voiced its commitment to improving the region’s watershed and water quality. The project’s final decisions will follow the completion of technical studies and the draft EIR, which are expected in the next six months.

“Fundamentally, that’s the biggest flaw…its success, and arguably its feasibility, depends on the cooperation of too many government agencies to even keep track of…” said Rounaghi. “But I really believe that ocean quality in our ecosystem should not be compromised by bureaucratic infighting.”

Barks and Blessings (Cont from page 1)

Clockwise, left to right: Pastor Rod Echols blesses Andrea Schoembs' golden retriever Elway; Sidney DeMaria sings "Let Peace Be On Earth;" Blanche Zelko and Todd Williams wait for their Newfoundland Jozie to be blessed and Echols speaks to attendees during NCC's Blessing of the Animals on Oct. 20. Photos/Spencer Grant

Fireﬁghters Contain Laguna Canyon House Fire; Family Dog Rescued

BY LB INDY STAFF

Laguna Beach firefighters rescued a family's small dog from inside a burning Laguna Canyon home on the morning of Oct. 20, authorities said.

After arriving at 6:29 a.m., the homeowner told first responders that all occupants had safely evacuated, but the family dog was still inside. Fire crews contained and extinguished the house fire, which took place at 17 Castle Rock Road in about two hours, responders said.

The fire also caused damage to a neighboring home. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Laguna Beach Fire Department personnel, along with the Orange County Fire Authority and Laguna Beach Police, quickly arrived at the scene to find a single-family home fully engulfed in flames.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Fire Investigator Brent Buccola at bbuccola@lagunabeachcity.net.

• FOLEY

Cont. from page 23

away from our fourth annual Veteran of the Year Awards. The theme this year is: “A legacy of loyalty and service. The award is open to all veterans, active-duty service members, and reservists who live in our county. As a sister and granddaughter of veterans, I know the importance of honoring their service. We all know veterans who make our County better every day, and my office continues to prioritize veterans’ employment, the County Veterans Service Office, and, most of all, ending veterans’ homelessness in our county.

Join me in recognizing Orange County Veterans’ outstanding accomplishments and contributions to our community at Los Olivos Community Center in Irvine on November 14, 2024!

Nominations for Veteran of the Year can be made at bit.ly/ VOTY2024. RSVP at bit.ly/ RSVPVOTY

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at Katrina. Foley@ocgov.com. For regular updates, subscribe to my weekly newsletter: Sign up here.

Stay tuned for our latest updates by signing up for my weekly newsletter: d5.ocgov.com/newsletter.

• SPORTS Cont. from page 8

6-0)

Key Laguna player Gavin Goode suff ered a finger injury on his shooting hand, causing the junior to miss the weekend and league tournaments.

The Breakers went 1-3 at Santa Clara, losing last Friday to St. Francia/Mt View 14-10 and to Davis 12-11 on Friday. They defeated Valley Christian/ San Jose 15-10 the following day but lost the afternoon match to Yucaipa 13-9.

On Tuesday, the Breakers were upset by Irvine 9-8 in the Pacific Coast League Carnival semifinals at Woodbridge. This past Wednesday, the Breakers played Sage Hill for third place.

The Breakers have qualified for the SSCIF playoff s for the 37th consecutive tournament and the

41st time in the 61 seasons of Laguna water polo.

ALUMNI NOTES:

Congratulations to Annika Dries ’09, who was recently inducted into Stanford University’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

Dries was a two-time league water polo MVP for Laguna, the 2009 County MVP and the SSCIF D2 Player of the Year. In college, she was the NCAA MVP and a 2012 Olympian.

Have a note on Laguna high school sports? Email Frank at frank@ twometer.net. Looking for 2024-25 High School schedules and scores? Check Laguna Beach High School on the Max Preps website or the schedules tab on the athletics website at lbhs.lbusd.org/athletics/schedules. To get scores on the school site – select the sport and level, click year and move the “show older events” toggle under the 2024-25 year.

• CRANTZ

Cont. from page 15

From month to month, Dad checks on his sons' online accounts. Recently, Mot's balance showed a healthy $150. He'd been doing the occasional odd chore for elderly neighbors. Mot is a good kid and his bank account shows it. But then it didn't happen until one recent day. His Dad said to Mot, "Come here. We need to talk." Mot answers, "About what, Dad?" His Dad said, "Where's the $150? Your bank account shows a zero balance."

"Oh, that. I spent the money on my new girlfriend. I bought her jewelry." His Dad is aghast. "You're nine years old. You bought her jewelry?" His brother Anagram answers for him. "I told him to get it appraised and insured." Mot looks back at his brother and Dad. "I couldn't. She ate the candy jewelry too fast."

Crantz tells the Indy that Mot learned an important life lesson. Volleyballs don't wear jewelry. Crantz is happy to report that Mot is back to playing soccer like a regular kid.

www.thecoachhouse.com TICKETS and DINNER RESERVATIONS: 949-496-8930

10/25 MIRAGE ( F leetwood M ac t ribute ) 10/26 STRYPER 40th Anniversary Tour

10/27 FREDDY JONES BAND 10/30 THE MUSICAL BOX 10/31 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS

11/1 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS

11/2 VENICE

11/3 THE WINEHOUSE EXPERIENCE

11/8 COMMON SENSE 11/9 TYRONE WELLS 11/13 JOHN HIATT

11/14 THE SWEET 11/15 RONSTADT REVIVAL

11/16 JOSHUA RADIN & RON POPE 11/21 JEREMY PIVEN 11/22 SPACE ODDITY ( d avid b owie t ribute )

11/23 RUFUS WAINWRIGHT 11/24 CTRL + Z F t M arc b onilla , t ho M as l ang , r ic F ierabracci , a lex M achacek & J onathan s indel M an 11/26 LEONID & FRIENDS ( c hicago t ribute )

11/27 LEONID & FRIENDS ( c hicago t ribute )

11/29 THE PLATTERS

11/30 LEE ROCKER of the Stray Cats

12/4 LIVINGSTON TAYLOR and LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III

12/6 WHICH ONE’S PINK? (P ink F loyd t ribute )

12/7 WHICH ONE’S PINK? (P ink F loyd t ribute )

12/8 SANDRA BERNHARD

12/11 DAVID BENOIT (XMAS TRIBUTE)

12/12 KY-MANI MARLEY

12/13 ABBA Holly Jolly Christmas 12/14 THE HIGHWAYMAN SHOW

12/15 THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA

12/18 SAMANTHA FISH ( s hake e M ’ on down tour ) J on S pencer , c edric B urn S ide

12/19 A VERY WHITNEY CHRISTMAS

12/20 A FLOCK OF SEAGULLS

12/21 AMBROSIA (HOLIDAY SHOW)

12/22 GARY HO-HO-HOEY

12/27 BEATLES VS STONES

12/28 DRAMARAMA

12/29 L.A. GUNS

12/31 THE ENGLISH BEAT

1/3 QUEEN NATION

1/4 QUEEN NATION

11/2 VENICE 11/3 THE WINEHOUSE EXPERIENCE COMING SOON

1/10 TOMMY CASTRO & THE PAINKILLERS

1/1 1 AC/DC vs OZZY 1/12 BURTON CUMMINGS

1/17 DADA

1/18 DSB (J ourney t ribute )

1/23 PAT TRAVERS

1/24 GENE LOVES JEZEBEL & BOW WOW WOW 1/26 WHAT’S NEW PUSSY CAT? ( t o M J ones t ribute )

1/30 CANNED HEAT 1/31 DESPERADO ( e agles ) 2/1 DESPERADO ( e agles )

2/2 RICKIE LEE JONES

2/7 DAVID COOK

2/8 LED ZEPAGAIN

2/16 INCENDIO 2/22 FAST TIMES

3/7 COCO MONTOYA & RONNIE BAKER BROOKS

Cont. from page 4

$33,700 and one of the lowest studentto-teacher ratios at only 18-1. Why then does maximum community support and opportunity for our children produce mediocre results?

It’s about weak leadership at the school board and district administration. To try and look better, this group only compares results to Orange County districts, and they always use district-level metrics so younger grades prop up weaker scores of high school students. They certainly don’t compare performance to the best high schools in California or the country, because the issue would then be obvious. Using a “marketing spin” subset of data is a huge disservice to parents, kids and taxpayers. All parents want their kids to have an educational experience that provides the best opportunity to get into the best colleges and the community also benefits.

Given 80% of residents don’t have kids in the school system, many are not focused on this. They still remember a time when they and their kids went to our great “private school within a publicschool setting.”

Clearly the data shows district leadership isn’t doing enough for our kids, yet the deeply embedded regime under President Vickers is fighting hard to keep power at all costs.

As you vote for school board trustees, consider that status quo candidates Vickers and Boeck have said publicly they support the current approach, think scores are fine, and do not see any issue here.

On the other hand, Hills and Morgan will bring change to improve things, lead and embrace community involvement. Vote change for our kids!

Steve Brown, Laguna Beach

The underperforming status quo in our schools which should be among the best in the state have been defended for far too long by current and former school board members who have been directly responsible for:

700 students leaving local schools, most transferring out to private or public school alternatives with higher academic standards and/or a student first approach. LBUSD curbing students’ academic concerns during Covid and being one of the last schools in California to return to in-class learning showed a total lack of leadership which resulted in quantifiable damage to our students that our new “Wellness Centers” will never compensate for.

School board members promoting academic success while EdSoure reports an18%+ decline in math 8%+ decline in English between 2019-2022 at our high school which is three times greater than surrounding school districts .The decrease in advance placement AP/ Honors courses for eligible students, while at same time the LBUSD attempts to exile our special education students from their own district against family wishes shows that the LBUSD has become tone-deaf and lacks concern for students educational needs.

Expanding the already top heavy administration with a new asst. superintendent, director posts, PR troubleshooter and new school site administrators as enrollment declines to 2300 students in our 4-small and shrinking schools. Using and directing high paid low performing senior staff and faculty to oversee costly educational consultants or legal counsel for lawsuits or pet-peeve projects instead of directing our resources towards education.

Fiscal and legal irresponsibility which has resulted in endless lawsuits, settlements and non-disclosure agreements with employees, students, and families due to poor dispute resolution which drains resources that should be directed at academics, curriculum and college readiness.

Only loyalists to the superintendent and school board leadership have a voice which creates a toxic environment for parents and students alike who disagree with the direction that our schools are heading. A school board which has abdicated heir elected control and has become nothing more than a cheerleader and rubber-stamp for superintendents pay raises and special pet-peeve projects. A superintendent and school board who was ruled to have violated students and parents rights under state law, then defied court order in violation of Board Bylaws and state law, and compiled only under contempt of court threat from judge.

Since the current superintendent and school board majority went from collaboration to collusion, the LBUSD budget has gone from $60 million to $85 million. That means $25 million more to spend on 700 fewer students, but instead of one of the strongest high school graduation student profiles our college and employment readiness record is far below what it should be.

With the resources we have available the LBUSD ranking should be among the highest in county. Clearly, taxpayers and parents are not getting their money’s worth.

Kirk Langton, Laguna Beach

I was planning on voting for George in the upcoming city council election. I changed my mind after he forwarded Mr. McIntosh’s erroneous political opinion piece on the LBUSB and the board’s handling of our special education program. I wrote to Councilman Weiss and brought to him my concerns about confidentiality and federal law that prohibits the school board from discussing ANY students, especially special education students. His response accused me of "hiding behind confidential information," similar to how other city council members use that justification. I explained to him that disclosing confidential information is against the law. I also informed him of the potential liability that the district will be placed in if we had chosen to reveal this information.

I am concerned about Councilmember Weiss's judgment, especially in light of the fiasco he allegedly caused, which contributed to the hostile work environment for the previous city manager and resulted in a half-million-dollar settlement the city had to pay. I do not want the school district to face litigation or a potential financial settlement due to the disclosure of confidential student information.

The Indy, however, did print my counterpoint article on Mr. McIntosh’s erroneous opinion piece. Councilman Weiss refused to forward my piece to his mailing list of city residents and clear up any misinformation he created.

George Weiss’s campaign is financially supported by the leadership of Sensible Laguna. The main goal of this group is to replace two school board members with individuals who will stop the enlargement of the current pool (Hills and Morgan)

Jim Kelly, LBUSD Board Member

As a parent of a senior still in high school and someone who has had children in the district continuously since 2004, I have noticed a slow decline in our once-fine school district over the past seven or eight years. This decline has been accelerated by Jan Vickers, who has consistently been wrong on every issue our schools have faced. For example, at the height of the pandemic, she was eager to close the schools but slow to reopen them. We were promised that online schooling would prevent learning loss; instead, we had kids riding their e-bikes in their pajamas for nearly two years. There was, in fact, significant learning loss, which she dismissed flippantly to every parent who raised concerns. To date, close to 700 students have left the district.

Jan Vickers does not deserve another term on this board. After more than twenty years on the board, she shows utter disdain for parents and indifference to students. Currently, she conducts herself like an administrative gangster under the disastrous superintendent, Jason Villoria—the only superintendent, along with the Board, in LBUSD history to have been found by an Orange County judge in October 2017 to have "abused their discretion."

Consider her actions regarding the new $19 million pool project, which does not reflect the community's needs. I urge residents, whether you have children in the district or not, to please consider voting for Howard Hills and Sheri Morgan. They are the only candidates truly dedicated to serving the students and getting our school district back on track.

Joe Kramer, Laguna Beach

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I look forward to hearing from you.