Director Mark Lowery conducts the Laguna Community Concert Band
the 2023 Holiday Concert at the Artists Theatre. Photo courtesy of Payton Webster
Chestnuts and Cheer (continued
from page 1)
BY CLARA BEARD | LB INDY
The Laguna Community Concert Band and Laguna JaZz Band will spread cheer around Laguna Beach with performances at Hospitality Night, The Susi Q and the Artists Theatre leading into the holiday season.
The holiday celebration begins with free performances at Hospitality Night in downtown Laguna Beach this Friday. Laguna Community Concert Band, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary season this year, will perform at 6 p.m. in the Peppertree parking lot. Laguna JaZz Band will perform immediately afterward, at about 7 p.m.
The following week, the jazz band will get into the swing of things with a holiday concert at The Susi Q on Thursday, Dec. 12, at 6:30 p.m. Directed by Lynn Olinger, this performance will feature unique, approachable jazz arrangements of traditional holiday songs.
The highlight of Laguna Community Concert Band’s holiday celebration will be “Chestnuts and Cheer,” a
traditional holiday concert, at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, in the Artists Theatre at Laguna Beach High School. The all-new program features traditional favorites along with modern holiday music by John Williams, JaRod Hall and more.
Director Mark Lowery describes the holiday concerts as “a cherished tradition” that band members look forward to every year.
“But these concerts are about more than music,” he said. “They’re about community, togetherness, and celebrating the spirit of the season with our neighbors and friends.”
That festive spirit will be on full display for the Dec. 15 concert, with vocal performances by local artists such as Lisa Morrice, Gary Greene and Katie Baker, as well as an audience sing-along, traditional carols like “The Christmas Song,” and the spirited, energetic “Dreidel Dance” by Robert Thurston. Other notable pieces include “A Home Alone Christmas” and Mannheim Steamroller’s iconic arrangement of “Carol of the Bells.”
Plus, Santa will make a special appearance to share his perspective on the classic poem “The Night Before Christmas.”
“This program includes a little something for everyone,” said assistant director Jennifer Baker. “We chose pieces that would showcase the versatility and talent of our musicians and included classic holiday favorites from several traditions along with some surprising new arrangements. We think the audience will be delighted with the results.”
“Our concerts are a way of giving back to the community and spreading joy,” said Lowery. “We invite everyone to join us and share in the magic of the holiday season.”
Following the Dec. 15 concert, audience members may show their program at The Lumberyard to donate a portion of their dinner bill to support the band.
All events are free and open to the public. The Susi Q requests reservations for Laguna JaZz Band’s Dec. 12 concert.
theindypoll
THIS WEEK’S QUESTION: Are you happy with the current speed limits within the city? Yes or No
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: Should the city make the temporary speed table on Bluebird Canyon Drive permanent?
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.
Neighborhood Congregational Church Receives Grant For 2024 National Clergy Renewal Program
BY LB INDY STAFF
Neighborhood Congregational Church (NCC) has received a grant of $60,000 to enable its pastor, the Reverend Rodrick Echols, to participate in the 2024 National Clergy Renewal Program.
NCC is one of 163 congregations across the United States selected to participate in this competitive grant program, which is funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. and administered by Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis. Established by the Endowment in 2000, the program’s grants allow Christian congregations to support their pastors with the gift of extended time away from their ministerial duties and responsibilities. Ministers whose congregations are awarded the grants use their time away from the demands of daily ministry to reflect and renew. The approach respects the “Sabbath time” concept, offering ministers a carefully considered respite that may include
travel, study, rest, prayer and immersive arts and cultural experiences.
“Pastors play such important roles in nurturing the spiritual lives of individuals and families and guiding the ministries of congregations,” said Christopher L. Coble, Vice President for Religion at Lilly Endowment. “Yet the demands of ministry can seem relentless. We hope these grants will help congregations honor their pastors
for their extraordinary service and give them time to step away for rest and renewal so they can return to their communities reenergized.”
Collaborative in nature and implementation, the program allows congregations to partner with their ministers in developing experiences that address their unique renewal needs and aspirations.
Reverend Echols has served as the pastor of NCC since 2017. His renewal plan, set for summer 2025, follows the example of the West African Sankofa bird, a mythical creature noted for its audacity to move forward while looking backward. To be clear, the bird moves with its head turned backward while its feet face forward, carrying a precious egg in its mouth. The egg symbolizes the future.
“I look forward to exploring my ancestral story pre-Civil War, embracing adventures and opportunities for meditation in Europe, learning to swim like the pros,
and discovering more about Spirit and myself,” said Pastor Rodrick Echols. Congregational needs during the minister’s renewal experience are also considered, as some of the grant may be used to support interim pastoral leadership during the pastor’s retreat and renewal activities within the congregation.
“NCC will hold a pre-renewal celebration for Pastor Rod, wishing him the best of life’s best for the journey and inviting wisdom into his life,” said Sue Cross, NCC Board President.
While the pastor is away next summer, the church will offer unique community engagement activities, tailored to bring delight and encouragement to all. The three-month period will focus on three themes. The congregation will deepen NCC’s legacy of love and compassion through the gift of playfulness. It also will center on the role of mindfulness in expanding
Off and Rolling: The Assistance League Donates 24 Bikes to San Onofre Elementary
The Assistance League of Laguna Beach (ALLB) has donated a complete Strider Learn-To-Ride Program to San Onofre Elementary School.
The bikes were recently presented to the Camp Pendleton school as a surprise for their 60 kindergartners. Principal Joe Kniseley kicked off the event by thanking ALLB for the gift, which provides the school with an All Kids Bike physical education program.
The school is now equipped with 24 bikes, helmets and a curriculum to allow every kindergartner to learn to ride a bike. Kathleen Hester, vice president of philanthropy for ALLB,
said the nonprofit organization was thrilled to support San Onofre Elementary.
“Supporting children and military families is one of our major priorities. We are honored to donate the All Kids Bike PE program to San Onofre Elementary School,” Hester said.
ALLB is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization supporting many community programs with funds from Thrift Shop. The Thrift Shop is located at 526 Glenneyre Ave and is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Visit assistanceleague.org for more details.
For the One Who Celebrates Staying In
Festive Home and Décor Gifts
Baccarat • Casper • CB2 • Crate & Barrel • Diptyque
Hermès • Frette • Louis Vuitton • Missoni • Pottery Barn
Pottery Barn Outdoor • Prada • Ralph Lauren • Sur La Table
Tempur-Pedic • Versace • West Elm • Williams Sonoma
For the One Who Shines Wherever They Go
Dazzling Jewelry and Timepieces
A. Lange & Söhne • Audemars Piguet • Breitling
Buccellati • Bvlgari • Cartier • Chopard • David Yurman
Graff • Harry Winston • Hublot • IWC • Jaeger-LeCoultre
Mejuri • Mikimoto • Montblanc • Omega • Panerai
Patek Philippe • Piaget • Roger Dubuis • Swarovski
Tiffany & Co. • Tudor | Tourneau Bucherer
Vacheron Constantin • Van Cleef & Arpels
For the One Who Lives in Airplane Mode
The Season’s Most-Wanted Travel Gifts
Apple Store • Aritzia • Bally • Burberry • Canada Goose
Coach • Everything But Water • Ferragamo • Gentle Monster
Hoka • Loewe • Lululemon • Madewell • Moynat • New Balance
Rimowa • Roger Vivier • Stuart Weitzman • Tumi • Uniqlo
Weekend Max Mara • Zimmermann
For the One Who Deserves a Self-Care Moment
Indulgent Beauty and Fragrance Gifts
Anthropologie • Balmain • Bottega Veneta • Byredo • Chanel
Diptyque • Fresh • Jo Malone London • Kiehl’s Since 1851
L’Occitane en Provence • MAC Cosmetics • Santa Maria Novella
Sephora • Uniqlo • Zara MORE GIFT ideas
Above: The Assistance League reveals 24 bikes, helmets and curriculum for the kindergarten PE class. Photo courtesy of ALLBl Below: And they’re off! The kids all got a chance to ride the brand-new bikes.
TOWN CRIER
IN AND AROUND LAGUNA BEACH
Toys for Tots Drive at the Saloon
The Saloon’s 21st annual Toys for Tots drive is coming up on Monday, Dec. 16, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. The Saloon invites the public to win prizes from local restaurants as well as gifts from your favorite Saloon products. Santa will be there, along with food and other surprises. Please bring an unwrapped toy for ages 15-18.
Dem Club to Hold Drive to
Benefit Laguna Food Pantry
The Laguna Beach Democratic Club will hold a community food drive from 9 a.m. to noon this Saturday at the Cress Street entry gate to Bluebird Park. The drive will benefit Laguna Food Pantry. Volunteers will collect peanut butter and tuna, two popular, shelf-stable proteins.
Donors may drive up and drop off items curbside with club volunteers.
Donors may join the club or renew their membership for 2025 at $35 for the new calendar year. Monetary donations to the pantry are also welcome at lagunafoodpantry.org.
2025 Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade Announces Junior Citizens
The Laguna Beach High School staff has chosen Lili Bazargan and Carter McKinzie, Class of 2025, as
DAVIS LAW
THOMAS P. DAVIS, APC (Tom) is pleased to announce that he has joined Anderson Law Group (Nicole Anderson) as of counsel to the firm. He will continue to handle litigation and transactional matters, including business formation, real estate and business contract review, contract negotiations, and litigation management and avoidance. The firm also serves as outside general corporate counsel on behalf of for-profit and non-profit organizations.
DAVIS LAW, APC
1000 N. Coast Highway, Ste. 10 • Laguna Beach, CA 92651
phone: 949.413.4754 • email: tom@tpdavislaw.com www.tpdavislaw.com
its 2025 Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade Junior Citizens. Bazargan and McKinzie will join Grand Marshal Rick Shoemaker, Honored Patriot Bob Seitz, Citizen of the Year Karyn Philippsen, Artist of the Year Mike Tauber and Athlete of the Year Braden Belden, who were the 2024 honorees in the rain-cancelled event. The honorees will ride in the 58th parade on Saturday, March 8. The event starts at Laguna Beach High at 11 a.m. The
parade entry and program ad deadline is Jan. 17, 2025. For information, contact Sandi Werthe at shworthy@ cox.net.
Cookies with Santa
There are many places to see Santa in Orange County, but none so easy as a new community event, Cookies with Santa. Scheduled for this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Laguna Beach United Methodist Church, this free family event features a professional photographer to take photos with Santa, Christmas games, music and plenty of homemade Christmas cookies. “We’re a love all thy neighbor’s sort of church,” said new Senior Pastor Rev. Courtney Mackey. “And at this time of year, we know our neighbors can be hurried and hassled by all the demands of the season. So, we thought we’d show them a little love by making one Christmas tradition as easy and fun as possible – namely, getting the family photo with Santa. We’ll have a professional photographer, and it’s all absolutely free.” While the church is known for other community events, like its twicemonthly beach cleanup and well-
The Saloon’s annual Toys for Tots Drive will take place Monday, Dec. 16 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Photo courtesy of The Saloon
School Board Election Reactions
It’s unfortunate that disinformation regarding the school board election continues to flow from organizations that disagree with the majority of voters in Laguna Beach. Particularly disappointing is that one of the loudest voices is a political party-based group promoting their agenda for a school board that, by law, is to be non-partisan. It’s unexplainable that they found it necessary to attack a long-time board member who has fought tirelessly for the students and all students and was not even part of the election.
Once again, the repeated drone of “grievances” ignores the actual foundation of the winning board candidates and paints any disagreement or suggestion of needed change as somehow disrespectful. The common elements of their campaigns include improved community partnerships, more openness and transparency in governance, increased oversight of fiscal
CITY HALL MEETINGS:
matters, and educational excellence for every student regardless of needs. Yes, they felt a change in board members could result in a change for the better. But that’s not disrespectful; it’s simply an opinion and one apparently shared by the majority of Laguna Beach voters.
Sensible Laguna endorsed those candidates based on their platforms, capabilities, and dedication to students as a priority. We have supported modernizing the high school pool since it was put forward publicly. In addition, we have worked tirelessly to include the city’s aquatic needs in a coordinated solution that respects the resident taxpayer. Our efforts were likely material in the city council’s unanimous decision to pursue a second pool for the community. We opposed the district’s original $150 million Facilities Master Plan that included massive administrative and district offices, relocation of tennis courts and multistory parking garages. We provided multiple alternatives based on research and underlying data with suggested changes to redirect spending to areas that would more directly benefit all students.
I realize it’s disappointing when your candidate doesn’t prevail, but is it really necessary to disrespect and bully those who serve and are duly elected by the residents? I think we can do better.
Gary Kasik, Sensible Laguna Election Results Influenced Superintendent Termination
On Nov. 21, the Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education voted unanimously to exercise the termination clause in Superintendent Dr. Jason Viloria’s contract without cause, effective Dec. 31, 2024. This decision, while difficult, was made with the well-being of our students, staff and community as the foremost priority.
The superintendent plays a pivotal role in executing the goals and strategies the board of education sets. The board oversees the superintendent and ensures alignment between leadership and the community’s vision for the district. A strong, collaborative relationship between the board and superintendent is essential to maintaining focus on student
DEC. 9 City Council Special Meeting - Certify Election Results at 5 p.m. | Dec. 10 - City Council at 5 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
Mark Orgill Council member morgill@ lagunabeachcity.net
Ann Marie McKay CityClerk amckay@ lagunabeachcity.net
• see LETTERS page 10
PUBLISHER
Steve T. Strickbine
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Nadine Johnson
EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR
Clara Beard clara@firebrandmediainc.com
DESIGN
DESIGN DIRECTOR
Tracy Powell tracy@firebrandmediainc.com
SALES
ADVERTISING SALES TEAM
Carol Josepher Adrienne Kruse
Joe Rafael Mara Hertel
PRODUCTION
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Tina Leydecker tina@firebrandmediainc.com
ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION: Tel: 949 715-4100
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
OUR LETTER POLICY
Letters strengthen community ties and provide a community forum open to all. Due to space constraints we ask
MAILING ADDRESS: 900 Glenneyre St., Suite B Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Tel: 949-715-4100 Fax: 949 715-4106 www.lbindy.com
Steve Zepezauer
- Sally, Laguna Beach
GUEST OPINION
Music is in our DNA
One of the remarkable things that community radio delivers besides great curated, eclectic music, is long-form storytelling about our past, present and future. Here at KXFM, we are literally building a historical podcast library of our time and place in Laguna. No other media can do that. Just go to the “Programming” button on the homepage menu and click on either “Show Directory” or “Meet the Makers” to download or listen to the wealth of podcasts on local topics at your fingertips.
Take the recent “Deep Cuts” show our general manager and resident “vinylcologist” Jonathan Tufano made with Wave Baker, the longtime manager of our recently shuttered Sound Spectrum record store (cue sad music). It’s one of 167 episodes he has podcasted on the station, with nearly 300 hours of mostly spinning vinyl. Try getting that on I Heart radio!
“I have met some great human beings inside those walls,” Jonathan told Wave. “I’ve never walked out of
the Sound Spectrum without feeling happy. If I felt down or a little sad, I knew I could go flip through some records. I feel like that was time well spent. And I’m sure I speak for many others.” He also mentioned making many lifelong friends just digging through the bins, and finding common ground with strangers.
The Sound Spectrum opened in 1967 and was perhaps the last indelible link to our hippie heritage of the 60s. Late founder Jim Otto was inexorably tied to that period, the notorious Brotherhood of Eternal Love and their nearby Mystic Arts boutique. Where else would all those stoned hippies who scored at Taco Bell discover new psychedelic music to trip with? Not content to be stuck in time, Jim brought reggae to Laguna in the late 70s and spawned a nexus between surfers and reggae that thrives today. Just check out the Sandpiper any weeknight.
“Jimmy loved music and liked to share it. He took time out to find out what kind of music made you feel good, and he would play music for each visitor based on that information,” his wife Edith told me. “He believed music was a good equalizer that brought people together in a non-political way. He
We Are the Ocean
Science often seeks to study the world by separating phenomena into a number of constituent parts to isolate key components and advance society. While this gives us remarkable new products and processes, it can overlook the big picture.
Evolutionary science defines humans as coming from the ocean, as we have become a land-based species. However, we are not actually “from the ocean” since the ocean is part of us every moment of every day. The reality is that wherever we are, we are the ocean. The ocean provides half of the air we breathe. Through evaporation, it showers us with rainwater to keep us
hydrated and irrigate our food crops while providing us with seafood. We are 70% seawater, and 98% match with “ocean plasma.” Without a healthy ocean, we simply do not exist. We are the ocean.
The ocean controls the climate and sea level, yet we continue to use the ocean as our toilet for sewage and urban runoff discharges. Since Laguna Beach remains the only coastal community without a recycled water system, everything in our urine from coffee, wine, estrogen and other pharmaceuticals is discharged at two million gallons per day just 1.5 miles offshore – a staggering ½ billion gallons of wasted wastewater every year. Our health and Laguna’s ecology, economy, culture and way of life depend on the ocean, so why do we continue to use it as a dump?
liked having a business that was a happy, healthy experience. That’s a pretty rewarding lifestyle.” And for those of us who revere music and music discovery, Sound Spectrum was Laguna’s own reward for 57 precious years.
Walking into Sound Spectrum was a time capsule of record bins and memorabilia. Who can forget the posters, tie-dyed T-shirts, incense and annual Bill Ogden calendars? It reflected a golden era of possibility, creativity, and the counterculture that made Laguna special. But mostly, it was a place for human connection and sharing all the poetry that went into records, their graphics, liner notes and imparted meanings.
Wave came to Laguna in 1972 and never left. He was an impressionable kid who was moved by music the first time he heard Jimi Hendrix’s “Are you Experienced?” “As a 16-year-old, I just knew I wasn’t experienced. But I wanted to be.” And so began his lifetime passion for music, culminating in a 24-year run co-managing the store, which began in 2000.
“Jim Otto was my boss, my teacher, who taught me everything about the music business. He had an amazing capacity to make people feel good,”
BY BILLY FRIED
Since we are basically ego-centric, our experience on land continues to take prominence in how we relate to the environment. We walk through life on land, from our homes to work to moments of recreation, basically disconnected from the ocean. Every square foot of land has a price, while the ocean value remains a distant thought, though priceless and irreplaceable.
The ocean treats us equally regardless of race, gender or political party. With growing awareness and seaworthy education, the ocean can unite us in a common cause to protect what we love – the ocean.
Enjoy the Holiday Sea-son and have a Happy New Blue Year.
Mike is the co-founder of the Laguna Bluebelt Coalition.
said Wave. “When a friend of mine was down because his friend had just committed suicide, Jim closed the doors to the store and just played some music to soothe the guy. The 20-25 minutes turned my friend’s day around.”
Another longtime employee was drummer Greg White, who worked there from 2001-2020.
“What was special was meeting all the customers and having in depth conversations about music, music history, the music industry, music production, and life in general. Having grown up here during the 70s and 80s, I was always fascinated by the charm and mystique of my hometown and its culture, so reminiscing with my customers about how Laguna used to be (and where it was headed) was always a special conversation.”
And now, sadly, the chapter has come to a close and it’s time for Edith to move on. The nearly 100-year-old historic building and the business are up for sale for $2.5 million. If some philanthropist music lover out there wants to save it, give broker Mark Miller a ring. We would all be beyond grateful.
In the meantime, we at KXFM intend to honor the legacy Jim brought to Laguna by building the “Jim Otto / Sound Spectrum” memorial wall of vinyl at our new studio. It will be a community exchange record collection where record lovers can donate, borrow or buy precious vinyl.
Meanwhile, come say hello to us tonight at Hospitality Night. We’ll be in front of Tuvalu at the small stage on the west end of the Forest Promenade. Two of our finest house DJs, Steve “The Ruckas” Whalen and DJ Chayu, will be manning the decks. We promise to have the danciest party at the best community celebration in town. Plus, we’ll have a silent auction for all your holiday shopping, including generous donations from local merchants, services, hotels, and talented residents. This is your chance to acquire some unique gift items at below retail and know it’s going to support a worthy cause – nonprofit community radio. Tune in. And turn on!
Billy is the Executive Director of KXFM radio and the Chief Paddling Officer at La Vida Laguna adventure sports company. He can be reached at billy@kxfmradio.org.
GUEST OPINION
BY MIKE BEANAN
MIKE BEANAN
BILLY FRIED
• LETTERS
Cont. from page 6
achievement and district success. With the arrival of a new board majority on Dec. 16, whose campaigns emphasized dissatisfaction with the current board and superintendent, the potential for a contentious relationship posed significant risks. This arrangement positions the new board to carefully determine the direction they wish to pursue and prioritizes stability over campaign promises aimed at disrupting district leadership. It also acknowledges the reality of politics, the power dynamics inherent in a board majority—formed by Hills, Morgan and Perry—and their significant influence in shaping the district’s future. For those who may not closely follow school board politics, it’s important to understand that a governing body, with a majority vote, holds the authority to dismiss a superintendent, effectively steering the district’s leadership and direction. When such changes are approached negatively or abruptly, they carry significant implications—not only disrupting the district’s stability but also imposing substantial costs
on staff time and taxpayer dollars. These costs often ripple beyond the immediate decision, affecting morale, organizational efficiency, and public trust in the governing body’s stewardship of resources.
A critical provision in the negotiated separation agreement offers the incoming board the opportunity to negotiate an interim superintendency with Dr. Viloria through the end of the school year. This pathway focuses on a smooth transition, minimizes disruption, and provides time for the incoming board to develop its vision while working collaboratively with the current superintendent while it searches for a new superintendent. Such continuity would help stabilize staff and maintain momentum in key initiatives impacting students and families directly. How the majority exercises this power will have lasting implications for the district’s cohesion and effectiveness.
Leadership transitions are complex, particularly when they involve a change in governance. The decision
to move forward this way underscores the critical need for alignment and collaboration between the board and superintendent. By prioritizing a stable, student-centered transition, the current board has taken steps to protect the district’s focus and future.
I hope the incoming board will embrace this opportunity to work collaboratively and demonstrate their commitment to the students, staff and families of Laguna Beach Unified School District.
James Kelly, LBUSD board member
The Voters Have Spoken
We are disappointed with Peggy Wolff’s letter to the Indy last week about the school board election, unnecessarily bringing erroneous ideas about Village Laguna into the discussion of her unhappiness with the candidates the voters chose.
Village Laguna did not “champion” any candidates for the school board. We held a school board candidates forum but declined to make any endorsements.
She states that Village Laguna has “no expertise in education.” Several Village Laguna board members are educators with decades of experience, including myself, Toni Iseman, Mary Ives, Regina Hartley and Merrill Anderson, vice president. Ann Christoph served on the School District Master Facilities Planning Committee, on the committee to analyze the proposed closure of Aliso School and was part of the original team that worked on pool locations at the High School.
Even though, as she stated, Village Laguna is sometimes accused of not wanting change (like that is a terrible thing), there are many important
qualities that our residents have emphasized that they do not want to change—those are the “village charm and historic character.” The preservation and enhancement of those qualities is Village Laguna’s mission. “Enhancement” is change for the better—which we work to accomplish in projects like the Village Entrance. There, we created and donated a plan that the city implemented. The result has been well received.
It’s not just Village Laguna’s idea that “village charm and historic character” are important to preserve and enhance. It is a key conclusion of the Vision 2030 plan produced by more than 2,000 residents, members of community organizations and local businesspeople as part of a city-wide strategic planning effort. After months of work, their report was accepted by the city council. These same principles are embodied in our city’s General Plan.
Village Laguna’s background of being active in Laguna Beach direction-finding for over 50 years gives us expertise in how community planning is supposed to be done, with public outreach, participation and cooperation.
Unfortunately, the school district did not address Vision 2030 or General Plan community goals or employ an inclusionary process to consider how their proposed facilities plan would affect the immediate neighbors and the city appropriately. Voters pushed back, and a change in the school board resulted.
I hope that now there will be a more unified, inclusionary process to resolve
schools & sports
FALL SPORTS UPDATE
BY FRANK ARONOFF | LB INDY
WINTER SPORTS UPDATE
BOYS BASKETBALL (1-4)
Nov. 27: Breakers defeat Beckman 62-60 at Foothill High School
Ryan Cheng hit a 3-pointer with 25 seconds remaining off a great steal and pass from Tai Contreras to give Laguna the win in a Feast Week contest at Foothill High School. Cheng had a season-high seven three-pointers in the game, finishing with 25 points.
Nov. 30: Breakers fall to Sunny Hills 62-41 at Marina High School
Tai Contreras and Damian Reider each scored 10 in the losing effort in a Feast Week showcase game played at Marina High School
Dec. 2 lost to Capo Valley 62-41 at El Dorado High School
Ryan Cheng and Kamal Dimler each scored eight points to lead Laguna in the Gary Raya tournament opening game at El Dorado HS in Placentia.
The first home game is this Tuesday, Dec. 10, with Garden Grove in their 57th meeting in the series.
GIRLS
BASKETBALL (4-3)
Laguna continues to show promise this season, and they could return to the playoffs after missing last season. The squad reported the following updates:
Nov. 27: Breakers defeat Ramona Convent 51-46 in overtime at El Toro High School
The Breakers won their second game of the tournament, defeating Romana Convent in overtime. Fiona McCormick led the Breakers with 23 points and Kate Cheng added 17, including six in the crucial overtime period. Senior Alicia Mendoza chipped in with six points, and junior Lily Alvarado scored five points.
Nov. 29: Laguna win against Foothill 28-27 at El Toro High School
In the tournament semifinal win over the Knights, Laguna was led
by senior Kate Cheng, who scored 14 points, including 12 of the team’s last 14. Freshman Fiona McCormick added eight, and sophomore Hayden Crane-Henning chipped in with four points.
Nov. 30: Laguna loses to Trabuco Hills 52-46 at El Toro High School
The Breakers lost to Trabuco Hills in the finals. Kate Cheng scored 28 for Laguna, and McCormack added 14. The two teams will meet again on Dec. 20 at Laguna.
Dec. 3: Laguna loses at Cabrillo/ Long Beach 66-32
Fiona McCormick scored a careerhigh 35 points as the Breakers routed the Jaguars, 66-32, at the loser’s gym. Cheng added 14 points, and senior Alicia Mendoza scored seven, as all of the girls who played got on the scoresheet for the Breakers.
Next: Laguna will host Santa Ana this Saturday at 12:30 p.m. at Dugger Gym. They will be at Tesoro on Dec. 9 and will host Orange on Dec. 12, Huntington Beach on Dec. 13 and Costa Mesa on Saturday, Dec. 14.
BOYS SOCCER
Laguna opened their 50th season of the sport at Laguna with a 4-1 win at Tesoro on Monday, Dec. 2. The Breakers were at Beckman on Dec. 4 and at El Modena on Dec. 6. Pacific Coast League this year with league play opening on Dec. 10 at Irvine.
GIRLS SOCCER (2-0)
Caroline Talarico scored three goals as the Breakers held off host Portola 3-2 in a match on Tuesday at the Bulldog’s field. Laguna faced St.
Margaret’s on Dec. 5 and will host Valencia/Placentia on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m. at Guyer Field.
GIRLS WATER POLO (0-2)
Just 48 hours after helping lead the USA to the Pan Am Games title in Colombia, Emma Lineback (UCLA) joined the Laguna Alumni with five steals as the graduates defeated the Breaker varsity 17-6 on Wednesday, Nov. 25, at the Laguna Community Pool in the third annual alumni game. London Boyd (Loyola-Marymount) scored seven goals for the winners, while Daniella Suh scored three in the varsity. Laguna was at San Clemente on Dec. 5 and will travel to Mater Dei for a 5 p.m. match on Friday, Dec. 13.
Jackson Kollock, Laguna’s all-time quarterback, makes his Minnesota commitment official this past Wednesday at the Breaker campus. Kollock was 26-5 in the three seasons, leading Laguna against the program’s most challenging schedule ever. Photo courtesy of LBUSD
Skipper Carrillo Memorial
The sports community was in full force for the recent service for longtime community icon Skipper Carrillo
• see SPORTS page 17
Rockpile Groms Win Bronze Bracket at Triple Crown Palm Springs Desert Tourney
The Laguna Beach Rockpile Groms won the bronze bracket in the 24th Triple Crown Palm Springs Desert baseball tournament last weekend. Over the three days of the tournament, the team beat the Malibu Sharks, Newport Beach Breakers and the Tsunami out of Torrance, Calif.
LAGUNA
Photo courtesy of the Laguna Beach Rockpile Groms
The William, Jeff and Jennifer Gross Foundation Joins Other Prominent Funders for Laguna Art Museum’s Every Single One Campaign
BY LB INDY STAFF
The Laguna Art Museum has received a $25,000 donation from The William, Jeff and Jennifer Gross Foundation to support the museum’s Every Single One campaign. This donation underscores the foundation’s significant impact on Laguna Beach and the global community, championing initiatives that resonate far beyond the local sphere.
The Every Single One campaign is dedicated to raising $1 million to support program expansion, accessibility enhancements and vital operational needs at Laguna Art Museum. Funds raised will drive improvements in educational programs, exhibitions and infrastructure, ensuring the museum continues to serve as a cultural cornerstone in Laguna Beach and beyond.
“We are deeply grateful to all of our generous donors, whose support is instrumental in advancing our mission,” said Julie Perlin Lee, executive director of Laguna Art Museum. “Their vision and
commitment empower us to continue enriching lives through art and education, ensuring that our programs thrive and reach those who benefit most.”
Thanks to the generosity of The William, Jeff and Jennifer Gross Foundation and numerous other contributors, the Every Single One campaign has hit an extraordinary milestone, raising $100,000 in just one month toward its ambitious $1 million goal. This campaign, launched in November 2024, is one of the most successful initiatives in the museum’s history, rallying both long-standing supporters and new donors to invest in the museum’s future. While the campaign is bolstered by generous contributions from prominent donors, the museum emphasizes that this initiative depends on gifts of all sizes. Every gift is crucial to achieving the campaign’s vision, from large donations to modest contributions.
To further accelerate the campaign’s momentum, a new $100,000 matching fund is being spearheaded
by board president Joe Hanauer, philanthropist Cody Engle and fundraising committee chair Wendy Aird, alongside others who will be announced in the coming weeks. Once fully realized, the fund will match dollar-for-dollar the next $100,000 in contributions, doubling the impact of each gift and accelerating progress toward the campaign’s goals. These contributions, along with many other
dedicated donors, demonstrate the community’s commitment to the campaign’s success in support of the arts.
“The Every Single One campaign is a testament to the power of community collaboration,” said Wendy Aird. “We’re inviting everyone who believes in the transformative
Laguna Art Museum. Photo courtesy of Laguna Art Museum.
Recent Festival of Arts Permanent Additions on Display at City Hall
BY LB INDY STAFF
The Festival of Arts has launched a compelling new exhibit at Laguna Beach City Hall, which will be on display until Jan. 10, 2025.
The “Community Curation: Festival Acquisitions” exhibition spotlights recent additions to the Festival of Arts Permanent Art Collection. It features an impressive array of works recently acquired through the generosity of collectors, donors, and local families and pieces purchased by the Festival of Arts. Highlights include “Hollywood and Vine” by David Milton, “Sancho Panza” by Matthew Rolston, “Sunlight on Rockport” by Tom Swimm, and “Once Upon Another Time” by Kirsten Whalen, among others.
“These artworks embody the creativity and legacy that make
Laguna Beach unique,” said Christine Georgantas, director of exhibits and events at the Festival of Arts. “Ranging from annual festival purchase awards to collector donations, each piece has passed through the hands of collectors, friends, and family members, showcasing how art shapes and preserves our community’s story.
We are proud to share these works, each one deepening our connection to Laguna Beach’s artistic identity.”
This free, limited-time exhibit is located at Laguna Beach City Hall, 505 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, California, 92651. Visitors are welcome Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and every other Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The building is closed every other Friday and on holidays.
of Arts “Community Curation: Festival Acquisitions” is on view at Laguna Beach
Hall through Jan. 10, 2025. Photo courtesy of FOA
Science Salon Celebrates 15th Anniversary
BY LB INDY STAFF
Defying the ageist assumption that older adults are doddery, forgetful and addled, members of the Science Salon at the Susi Q are currently celebrating 15 years of intellectual stimulation, enjoyment and camaraderie.
One of the founders, Alison King, a former professor of cognitive psychology, explained the club started after she retired and wondered what she would do for intellectual stimulation. She knew little about science and decided to start a science discussion group. She had heard that the Susi Q needed programs and classes, so she called an acquaintance, Ron Williams, and asked if he would collaborate in organizing a group to discuss physics, chemistry and biology.
He agreed.
“We decided to format the meeting the same way a scientific graduate seminar is conducted. I think one of our first topics was regenerative medicine,” King said.
Longtime member Joel Goldstein explained that members volunteer to present articles in the Scientific American magazine or the current science news at each meeting. The discussion following each topic is
always intense and intellectually engaging.
Topics covered in the Science Salon over the years include artificial intelligence, elephant behavior, cicadas, asteroids, benefits of metformin, gun control, brain-computer linkages, quantum phenomena, stress in LGBTQ people, consciousness, the evolution of intelligence, CRISPR, solar flares, robotics and more.
“I think of our meetings as ‘nerd heaven,’” Goldstein said. “Members’ professions include philosophy, psychiatry and education; they’re engineers of all sorts, physicians, artists, biologists, environmentalists and professors in all fields of science. They include a financial analyst, physicist, attorney, pastor, research psychologist, software company owner, science author, entrepreneur, and computer programmer. The mixture of backgrounds and occupations makes it an especially interesting and engaging group.”
The Science Salon is one of several clubs holding meetings at the Susi Q. Some are closed to new members to keep numbers manageable and have waiting lists. Visit thesusiq.org for more information.
Festival
City
Members of the Susi Q’s Science Salon. Photo courtesy of the Susi Q
GUEST OPINION: PET PEEVES
Grandma’s Not Here
I have a confession to make. I hate to travel. This disposition puts me at odds with the rest of the world. I know better than to tell the rest of the world not to stand in airport security lines if the rest of the world enjoys them. My problem is my wife is one of the rest of the world. I have to listen to her, or it feels like the rest of the world has come down on me, smothered under a ton of overhead Samsonite luggage, all sporting one bad wheel.
The other day, I found myself in an airport security line. According to AAA, this holiday season will set a record for travel. Millions of Americans are traveling over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house they go. All these people don’t know that our grandmas were in this traveling sea of humanity too, so when we got
to grandma’s houses, they wouldn’t be there. The grandmas could not tell loved ones where they were because they couldn’t see over anybody in these endless lines of travel.
When loved ones realized all the grandmas weren’t at their homes, Homeland Security launched the biggest search and rescue effort ever seen. The rest of the world waited anxiously next to doily-covered phone tables to hear that the grandmas had been found. Finding the grandmas in 48 hours was important because nobody could find their way around grandma’s kitchen. After 48 hours, the nation would start experiencing hunger pangs.
Geriatric experts popped up in the media, attempting to explain the situation. Experts believed the event was triggered by a computer ad placed on the Wheel of Fortune. The TV ad told old people to get with the times and convert their paper day planners to computer day planners because
this would instantaneously keep them connected to their grandchildren. Grandmas would do anything for their grandchildren. Unfortunately, the grandmas couldn’t make the computer conversion. Experts explained that their medical rings registered high levels of anxiety, but an alert Homeland Security employee realized the medical rings had a GPS locator in them. All the grandmas were found patiently standing in airport security lines and safely returned to their homes. Families were relieved and fed by the grandmas.
I’m relieved, too, that the grandmas were found. I look forward to having them in my support group for people who hate to travel. Mark Twain was a travel columnist during his day. He went all over the world describing to readers what the world was like. People didn’t travel back then because bad travel clothing hadn’t been invented yet. Many years after Twain, clothing designers came up with the Ugly American look. However, once
BY MARK D. CRANTZ
wrinkle-free, non-breathable polyester was discovered, Americans took off for destinations far and farther. The rest of the world cringed at the Ugly Americans behind their backs but put on happy faces at their American Express cards. “Come back, soon,” they said.
This is what Mark Twain said about travel, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” Wait one darn second here. I’m this one-page person. Pet Peeves is one page. I tell make-believe friends that I’m a one-page wonder…as in… I wonder what he’s talking about. My wife tells me that being a one-page wonder is not something to aspire to and refuses to put this saying on my tombstone. She threatens to cremate me and sprinkle a little of my ashes in ports all over the world. I gasp that my wife is going to make me travel after I’m dead. So, I don’t ask about being a
• see CRANTZ page 21
Catering Services Catering Services
MARK D. CRANTZ
A Christmas Cactus Holiday Digest
BY JOSETTE S. HATTER
Last December, I received a lush Christmas cactus from a good friend who said, “I just love these and I am sure that, being a good gardener, you can keep it alive.” I panicked a bit in the face of her trust, as I had failed in several attempts to keep that fussy plant alive. Then I remembered the writings of Ed Shaw, who moderated the Thursday writer’s workshop at the Laguna Beach Susi Q Community Center.
I wasn’t a member of the Thursday workshop, but my husband was. “How
was your workshop today?” I often asked him. He’d tell me a bit about the articles and stories that had been presented and sometimes remarked that Ed, who watched details closely, was a somewhat strict and ruleoriented moderator. Respected, but a bit irritating perhaps?
Still, because I enjoy gardening, he also shared horticultural articles that Ed had written and workshopped. Although filled with information, the articles read like stories, not like gardening instructions: “. . . fragrant blossoms akin to small orange blossoms start opening in late winter or early spring . . . three to six blooms stand in clusters above the rich green foliage, which serves to complement the fragrance and, when bruised or cut, will give off a pungent aroma of rue.”
I had never heard of the European woody herb called rue. Like any good short story writer, Ed had taken me someplace I hadn’t expected to go.
At the time, I had read Ed’s
Canine Christmas at Heisler Park
BY ED KAUFMAN
At Christmastime, the ruby red flowers of ubiquitous Christmas Carol aloe reach their peak and turn Heisler Park into a mammoth holiday festival. Heisler is a favorite spot for dog walkers and many pooches are decked out in their holiday attire at Yuletide. They sport Santa hats and antlers and red and white sweaters. Tender-footed ones wear red velvet dog shoes and non-skid elf stockings. Dog walkers
often congregate in groups, at times to share the fellowship of being dog owners, exchange pleasantries or revisit past memories. While their masters converse, pups wag their tails, spar and sniff each other’s hind quarters. The conversation may gravitate to, “Have you seen Frank and his entourage of dog-treat donors?”
The gifting of doggie delights has long been a tradition at Heisler, and it is often one person who is the main donor. Frank is quite cautious when dispensing his goodies, particularly with pooches who snatch the treat from the giver’s hand. Such is the case with my own panting Goldendoodle, Roy. Frank will toss an unbroken biscuit 15 feet to be caught in mid-air by Roy as familiar onlookers count the times Roy has made the catch consecutively. Roy can spot Frank at 100 yards, and when he does, he will pull me toward him
discussion about Christmas cactus closely. In straightforward prose, he had written supportive guidelines for keeping the delicate succulent alive. In the face of my friend’s trust, I immediately searched for Ed’s article, but to no avail—it had been misfiled or accidentally thrown away. Still, I felt buoyed by my memory of Ed’s instructions.
“Well, maybe I can keep this one alive,” I said aloud.
Fundamentally, Ed had urged caution—I think his rules could be summed up as, “Don’t kill it with too much love.” So, I potted the dark green succulent filled with red blossoms in loose soil, fed it lightly but regularly, and watered it only when dry. For the last year, I have behaved like a worried parent, checking and rechecking the plant. Was it too dry? Did it need more food? Was the sunlight adequate? I believe that Ed was hoping to publish a gardening book. I certainly planned to read it. Early this year, when
I learned that Ed had suddenly passed away, I felt like I had lost a friend, as I always do when a writer that I have grown to love dies and I can no longer hope for their next book.
Almost a year has gone by, and my Christmas cactus is still alive. I hope that it will bloom. I’d like to place it on my fireplace mantel together with the vases of amaryllis and paperwhite narcissus blooms that annually bring holiday joy to me.
The fact that my Christmas cactus is still alive is a kind of proof that so, too, are Ed Shaw and his book. Holidays often include memories of those who have passed away. Sometimes, the memories are bitter, and people are sad, but the best of our holiday memories are bittersweet longings for those whose love, life and efforts were gifts to us.
Josette S. Hatter, a member of Third Street Writers, is a retired UCI counselor who lives in Dana Point with her husband.
The Crystal Elephant
BY NORMA SADLER
Jim and Annie lived in a small rental cottage on Cypress Street in Laguna Beach. On the day before Christmas, he wanted to buy a present for her, something different, something she would really love. Each year, he bought her a Radko ornament for their tree. This year there would be no tree as they were going to have Christmas with their now grownup children and their grandchildren in Dana Point.
Jim drove down to Forest Avenue at
a time early enough for the streets still to be not crowded with traffic and before the lunch crowd showed up. He parked and walked to a store on the corner. In the window, crystal shapes caught his eye, but large sculptures on pedestals would never fit in their living room. Maybe there would be small figurines inside.
A young woman in a bright red sweater and black slacks stood behind the counter. She smiled. “Can I help you?”
“I’m looking for something in crystal, like a figurine maybe,” he said.
The sales clerk turned and pointed at the shelf. “Here we have a Baccarat tiger. It’s $200.”
“Maybe a smaller figurine,” Jim said.
“Sure,” she said and walked over to mirrored shelves that held crystal animals, perfume bottles, abstract pieces, and even geodes. By itself in a corner, smaller than the other pieces, stood a lone crystal elephant.
“May I see that elephant?” Jim asked.
• SPORTS
Cont. from page 12
last Saturday at St. Catherine’s and on Tuesday at Suzi Q. Among the past Laguna Beach High School coaches who attended were Norm Bourcki who was instrumental in getting Skipper involved at the high school as baseball coach (63-69) and AD (1976-79), Darrell McKibban – AD (68-71) Baseball coach (7075), Tom Klingenmeier longtime assistant coach at the high school and AD 1991-95, Baseball coach 84-85, Tom Purdy another longtime assistant coach for a number of sports and AD 1986-90. Also spotted was Ed Burlingham, basketball coach in 1976-77.
You can donate to the Skipper Carrillo Scholarship, established 32 years ago, by sending your checks to LBHSSF at PO Box 1569, Laguna Beach, Calif., 92652. Note the “Skipper Carrillo Scholarship” on the memo line. The annual grants go to senior varsity athletes who have financial needs and are overcoming obstacles.
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.
street beat
EXCERPTS FROM POLICE BLOGS
Tuesday, Nov. 26
Annoying 911 calls. A 38-yearold Dana Point man was arrested on suspicion of making annoying calls to 911. His bail was set at $500.
Possessing a throwing star. A 29-year-old Laguna Beach woman was arrested on suspicion of possessing a throwing star, obstructing a police officer and multiple vehicle infractions. Her bail was set at $23,000.
Wednesday, Nov. 27
Trespassing, filing a false allegation of peace officer misconduct. A 57-yearold Laguna Beach man was arrested on suspicion of obstructing an officer, trespassing and filing a false allegation of peace officer misconduct. His bail was set at $21,000.
Thursday, Nov. 28
Possessing a controlled narcotic. A 44-year-old Aliso Viejo man was arrested on suspicion of possessing a controlled narcotic. He was held without bail.
Inflicting corporal injury on significant other. A 59-year-old Laguna Beach man was arrested on suspicion of a felony charge of inflicting corporal injury on his spouse/cohabitant/date. His bail was set at $50,000.
Friday, Nov. 29
• CHURCH
Cont. from page 2
consciousness and deepening one’s capacity for curious conversations, drawing on the generosity of wise healers, academics, and practitioners. In addition, congregants will explore racial reconciliation and human relations alongside music, art, and intergenerational circles. An NCC summer calendar will be announced in Q2 of 2025.
Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis also directs the Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Program for Indiana Congregations.
Bench warrant, DUI. A 63-year-old Laguna Beach woman was arrested on suspicion of failing to appear on misdemeanor charges, drunk driving and driving while on probation with a blood alcohol level of 0.01 or greater. Her bail was set at $20,500.
Bench warrant, possession of a controlled substance. A 35-year-old Irvine man was arrested on suspicion of failing to appear on a felony charge, possessing a controlled substance and unlawful paraphernalia and giving false ID to police. His bail was set at $21,500.
•
12/6 WHICH
12/11 DAVID BENOIT ( Christmas Show )
12/12 THE RAT PACK ( Holiday Show )
12/13 ABBA Holly Jolly Christmas 12/14 THE HIGHWAYMAN SHOW
12/6 & 12/7 WHICH ONE’S PINK
12/15 THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA 12/18 SAMANTHA FISH ( S hake
Featuring
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
1/8 QUINN SULLIVAN & HAMISH ANDERSON
1/9 ALL FIRED UP (P aT b enaTar T ribu T e )
1/10 TOMMY CASTRO & THE PAINKILLERS 1/11 AC/DC vs OZZY
1/12 BURTON CUMMINGS
1/17 DADA
1/18 DSB (J ourney T ribu T e )
1/23 PAT TRAVERS
1/24 GENE LOVES JEZEBEL & BOW WOW WOW
1/26 WHAT’S NEW PUSSY CAT? (T om J one S T ribu T e )
1/30 CANNED HEAT
1/31 DESPERADO ( e agle S )
2/1 DESPERADO ( e agle S )
2/2 RICKIE LEE JONES
2/5 LEO KOTTKE
2/7 DAVID COOK
2/8 LED ZEPAGAIN
2/14 A VALENTINE’S EVENING WITH OTTMAR LIEBERT & LUNA NEGRA
2/16 INCENDIO with special guest ardeshir farah ( o F S T runz & F arah )
2/20 THE HEART OF ROCK & ROLL
2/21 CHEST FEVER
2/22 FAST TIMES ( u lT imaT e 80’ S T ribu T e )
2/23 ALWAYS ADELE
2/26 HUMMEL HARP BLOWOUT
2/27 VANESSA COLLIER
2/28 G LOVE & SPECIAL SAUCE
3/6 ALTAN
3/7 COCO MONTOYA & RONNIE BAKER BROOKS
3/8 MARC COHN
3/9 MARC COHN
3/13 SONS OF CREAM FT k o F b aker , m alcom b ruce , r ob J ohn S on COMING SOON
3/14 THE FENIANS 3/15 WALTER TROUT 3/16 WALTER TROUT 3/21 THE THIRD MIND ft dave alvin & more
3/22 KING’S X 3/26 RUSSELL HOWARD
BY LYNETTE BRASFIELD
Hear, Hear!
Years ago, I discovered I had misheard the lyrics to “What a Wonderful World” sung by Louis Armstrong. Instead of “dark sacred night,” I heard “the dogs say goodnight.”
Honestly, I prefer the image of soulful howls bringing the day to a close as the sun slips down the purpling sky…but I accept that the words are not mine to choose.
Mishearing lyrics is relatively common and not too worrying when we’re young. Later in life, it might be a sign that your hearing isn’t what it used to be.
As we age, sometimes we’re inclined to blame our struggle to follow certain conversations on people mumbling, accents making a conversation hard to follow, or a restaurant with terrible acoustics.
But then, one day, maybe your wife asks if you would please shut the refrigerator door because the cat is sleeping on her lap, and she can’t bear to disturb his slumber. You ask how she could possibly know that the door is open because she is facing away from the kitchen.
That’s when she explains that the refrigerator makes a high bleating sound when its integrity is compromised by warm air. And that’s when you realize there are some sounds you aren’t hearing.
Within a month, hearing aids are in place, and you’re amazed when you become aware of birdsong out on the golf course. The thwack of a ball on the club is music to your ears. You can practically hear the grass grow. Yet sometimes people are in denial (no, not a river in Egypt) and refuse to accept that they need help. They muddle along, becoming increasingly
reluctant to participate in social activities to avoid the reality that they can’t hear properly.
Rose-Marie Davis, Au.D., FAAA, doctor of audiology, provides free screening services for the 50-plus at the Susi Q every third Thursday. She explains why addressing hearing loss early is important.
“There’s a growing body of evidence linking untreated hearing loss to cognitive decline and dementia. This connection seems to be related to several factors such as auditory deprivation, increased cognitive load, social isolation and changes in brain structure related to untreated hearing loss,” Davis says. “Additional risks are safety concerns from the inability to hear important sounds and alerts, for instance when driving.”
She adds, “It’s very typical for people who have been encouraged by their spouses to come in for hearing
screenings because the spouses are frustrated with communication difficulties or can no longer tolerate the loud volume of the TV. Many relationships have been enhanced by the first step of one partner coming to the Susi Q for a hearing test.”
According to Alzheimer’s Organization, hearing aid use is associated with fewer memory problems and thinking problems, independent of dementia.
To end on a lighter note, I’ve had some fun googling misheard lyrics. Here’s one from Bon Jovi’s Living on a Prayer: “It doesn’t matter if we make it or not” has on occasion been heard as “it doesn’t matter if we’re naked or not.”
Quite a leap!
Do you have any misheard lyrics to share? Email me at lynetteb@thesusiq. org. And if you’d like to set up a free appointment to have your hearing tested, call 949-715-8104.
Cont. from page 16
The clerk picked it up carefully from the shelf and handed it to Jim.
The elephant, solid crystal and elegant, would fit in Annie’s collection of elephants from around the world. It was different, though, from the wood, silver and pewter ones that she already had. She loved them and could remember how and where she acquired each one.
Jim remembered that the first and most important elephants came from Walter, her brother, who served in Africa under General Patton and followed him in the long march up the boot of Italy. Walter carried three wood elephants with small white tusks in a knapsack for Annie, his only sister. He mailed them from post-war Paris to her. A father, mother and baby elephant reached Annie and Jim when they were expecting their first child. That was the beginning of Annie’s collection.
Now in their living room, Annie’s elephants traversed the mantle, making their way through pine boughs and lights.
“I’ll let you decide,” the clerk said.
“Let me know if you need anything.”
Jim turned the elephant over. A smooth flat bottom with an etched number signified its history in a Swedish company. He noticed that unlike Annie’s other elephants with their heads down, either standing still or walking through imaginary jungles, this crystal elephant raised a trunk in triumph or happiness. The elephants on the mantle could use another companion.
Jim turned to the clerk. “I’ll take this elephant. How much is it?” he asked.
“It’s $50,” the clerk said. He took out his wallet, paid with cash.
The clerk wrapped the elephant, cozy in a box, then in silver paper with a red ribbon. She handed the package to him. “I don’t know who this is for, but this crystal elephant is a perfect gift,” she said.
Jim nodded. An elephant for Annie to remember.
Norma Sadler is a member of Third Street Writers, Laguna Beach.
Cont. from page 16
or refuse to move until Frank is close enough to toss a special goodie.
Laguna abounds with Doodles of all types and sizes besides the popular Golden: Labradoodles, Sheepadoodles, Bernedoodles and over a dozen more. Doodles seem to be rarer outside of Laguna Beach as tourists often ask, “What kind of dog is that?” or “Can I take a photo with him?” Roy loves to have his picture taken and eagerly poses with anyone who asks.
Walking the curving paths of Heisler is quite popular among the allegedly six million tourists who visit Laguna Beach yearly. The main attractions here are pristine beaches and waves crashing over rough-hewn rocks framed by palm trees and backed by a twisting Melaleuca tree. Heisler is also a wonderful garden of sculptures by local and international artists that mostly go unnoticed by most visitors, even those sitting on benches created by Marlo Bartels and Louis Longi.
The main sights that attract cell phone photographers are the many views of our magnificent winter sunsets that bathe the sky in multiple shades of reds reflected on the diamond-studded ocean. Christmastime is also gray whale watching season in Southern California, so it is a great time to capture a spot and watch these gentle 60-foot beasts breeching among large pods of playful dolphins.
On Christmas morning, all of these beautiful distractions are displaced by the spirit of the holiday. Strangers exchange warm greetings and even more walkers are pulling out delicious doggie delicacies from plastic bags and generously dispensing them. The spirit of giving is present among the walkers of Heisler every morning, but full openheartedness is abundant on this special day.
Ed Kaufman is a 47-year resident and practicing psychiatrist in Laguna Beach, former host of Dime Stories and current member of Third Street Writers.
GUEST OPINION: DEAR SUSI Q
LYNETTE BRASFIELD
• SADLER
• KAUFMAN
Laguna Open Crowns New Champions
BY ADRIENNE KRUSE, SPECIAL TO THE INDEPENDENT
The 2024 Laguna Open began with an open qualifier on Friday, Nov. 22, followed by a weekend of high-level competition. The main event featured a modified 16-team automatic main draw format for both the men’s and women’s brackets, culminating in a double-elimination main draw.
“The community here is really passionate about beach volleyball,” said tournament director Marty Suan. “It’s deep in the soul of Laguna and it shows. There are few venues in the world that compare.”
The tournament was part of the AVP Next Tour Series, with locals and tourists alike hailing the uniqueness of the Laguna Open.
“It’s the environment and always has been, going all the way back to the 50s and 60s,” said Gary Cogorno, longtime supporter and partner of the Laguna Open. “There aren’t a lot of beaches on the AVP where the beach is right here and the boardwalk is right there. There’s a closeness to it all.”
Malia Gementera and Taylor Hagenah capped off an exceptional tournament by claiming the women’s title at the Laguna Beach Open. The ninth-seeded duo won in a thrilling final against Carly Kan and Devanne
• LETTERS
Cont. from page 10
future improvements at the high school campus.
Anne Caenn, Village Laguna President
Thank You, Viloria
School board elections have consequences. The district recently announced a separation agreement between our superintendent, Dr. Jason Viloria and the board. This is a heartbreaking consequence of politicization; our children became election collateral damage.
The primary campaign issue for the school board seats became the swimming pool and years-old COVID grievances – overshadowing priorities like academic excellence and evolving student needs. While I support thoughtful discussions about facilities and resources, I am deeply concerned
Sours, triumphing 22-20 in the first set and 15-13 in the final set. This victory proved even more impressive as the team came out of the qualifier and had to beat out multiple Olympians and a world champion. This marked the first tournament win for both Hagenah and Gementera.
“There are a lot of top athletes here, pros and Olympians. This was our first time playing against those top players,” said Gementera. “We had nothing to lose and played our hearts out.”
Gementera and Hagenah are also best friends. The duo met in college and have been inseparable ever since.
“We’re both juniors at Long Beach State and got close our freshman year,” said Hagenah. “We both have aspirations to play after college, so we’ve been trying to qualify and compete in these top tournaments and keep pushing on that journey.”
On the men’s side, the eighthseeded Gage Basey and Thomas Hurst took home the championship after a hard-fought battle against fifth-seeded Marcus Carvalhaes and David Wieczorek. Basey and Hurst triumphed 21-16 and 22-20 in a match that showcased their love of the game. While some players bring seriousness and tension to the court, these two played easily and
synergistically in the finals. This year, a strong friendship and unlikely odds were the theme for both winning teams.
“It’s Gage and I together; we’re really close friends, and we just love playing,” said Hurst. “If we’re happier and have more fun, we’re probably going to play
better. It is definitely an added benefit to playing together.”
Both players hail from places that don’t have a strong culture around beach volleyball: Hurst from Plano, Texas and Basey from Lyons, Colo. They developed a strong love of the sport and now spend their free time competing in tournaments and opens. Basey grew up playing in warehouses, a far cry from the beach volleyball landscape of Southern California.
“Laguna Beach is beautiful, this is my favorite beach,” said Basey. “It feels amazing and I’m looking forward to that La Sirena burrito.”
This year’s tournament’s after-party was at the Rivian South Coast Theater, bringing together the community and players for a night of music and dancing. Chris Reames’s co-founded Slunks, a sustainable beachwear brand founded in Laguna’s Victoria Beach community, sponsored the event and the tournament.
“In reality, the Laguna Open chose me. There isn’t a place on earth like Laguna Beach, especially a volleyball town,” said Reames, who grew up here. “I don’t take it for granted, and I want to give back as much as I can.”
This tournament closed out the AVP series and will return in the fall of 2025.
that our children’s futures have been sacrificed at the altar of politics.
I have had the privilege of working with dedicated parents and staff to support the opportunities our schools provide. I’ve served on PTA boards for over seven years, including as president of TOW PTA (2019-2021) and TMS PTA (2022-2024), school site councils, hiring committees and district-wide initiatives. My husband and I also served as SchoolPower Trustees (20192023), he served as president (20212022) and we continue to support the SchoolPower Endowment Fund Board. We are committed to LBUSD’s success.
Last month, the California Department of Education announced that LBUSD ranked No. 1 among Orange County unified districts for English language arts, math, and
science statewide student assessment scores.
LBUSD doubled participation in advanced placement courses, expanded career technical education pathways, and introduced district librarians to promote access to resources and literacy development. We also launched middle school sports, extended-day transitional kindergarten and fullday preschool and opened the Family Resource Center.
LBUSD has made incredible strides in students’ mental health over the last nine years. The percentage of LBHS 9th graders reporting chronic sadness dropped from 24% to 12%, according to the California Healthy Kids Survey (the OC rate is 30%). The rate of LBHS 11th graders seriously considering suicide fell from 16% to 6% (the OC rate is 14%).
These achievements reflect the collective efforts of our community. Notably, these achievements happened under the direction and leadership of Dr. Viloria. I’ve had the honor of working closely with him over the years, and while we haven’t always agreed, I’ve found Dr. Viloria to be a principled leader committed to the district’s mission.
Our students deserve a community that prioritizes their growth, wellbeing, and success. We also need a school board that never loses sight of what truly matters: our kids. Dr. Viloria, we are grateful for your efforts these past eight years and hope you will see LBUSD as a home you can return to when the time is right.
Shaheen Sheik-Sadhal, Laguna Beach
Gage Basey and Thomas Hurst took home the men’s championship after a hardfought bat-tle against fifth-seeded Marcus Carvalhaes and David Wieczorek.
Adrienne Kruse/LB Indy
• CRANTZ
Cont. from page 15
one-page wonder anymore.
But because I write this column and I feel safe knowing my wife doesn’t read it, I’ll get in the last word—or, actually, Ernest Hemingway’s words. He said, “You can’t get away from yourself by moving from one place to another. There’s nothing to that.”
“I’m coming, honey,” I say, unable to get in the last word. ‘Tell security to holster their tasers.”
Crantz tells the Indy that he wishes Lagunans safe and happy holiday travels. I’ll hold your place in line.
• FOUNDATION
Cont. from page 13
power of the arts to be part of this movement. While large donations have a profound impact, every contribution—no matter the size—is vital in sustaining and energizing our mission. Every donor is crucial to our success and together, we can all make a difference.”
The museum is excited to offer a variety of donor incentives to show appreciation for supporters at all levels. All donors will be invited to the One In A Million celebration this spring, marking the campaign’s conclusion. Additional incentives include: A digital art packet for all donors, featuring museum-designed mobile and laptop wallpapers; And a limited-edition print curated by Executive Director Julie Perlin Lee for donations of $10,000 and above, accompanied by didactic information and a personal note from the director.
Further donor recognition and gifts detailed at lagunaartmuseum.org/ everysingleone.
The campaign will also feature special guest appearances and sponsors announced throughout its duration, fostering community involvement in the arts.
For more information about The Every Single One Campaign or to make a donation—whether large or small—and have your gift matched, please visit lagunaartmuseum. org/everysingleone or contact the Campaign Director, Charles Stanton, at cstanton@lagunaartmuseum.org. Every contribution moves the campaign closer to its vision of empowering every single visitor and member of the community.
• STREET BEAT
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Saturday, Nov. 30
DUI. A 22-year-old Lake Forest man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving, disobeying a court order, driving on a suspended license, hit and run causing property damage, possessing a switchblade, a shortbarreled shotgun and a substance similar to toluene. His bail was set at $27,000.
Sunday, Dec. 1
Bench warrant. A 54-year-old Laguna Beach man was arrested on suspicion of failing to appear on a misdemeanor charge. His bail was set $2,500.
Disobeying a court order. A 50-yearold Laguna Beach man was arrested on suspicion of contempt of court. His bail was set at $15,000.
Trespassing. A 77-year-old Laguna Beach man was arrested on suspicion of refusing to leave property at a police officer’s request. His bail was set at $500.
DUI. A 66-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and blowing on or over 0.08 percent blood alcohol level. His bail was set at $5,000.
Monday, Dec. 2
False ID, possessing unlawful paraphernalia. A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing unlawful paraphernalia and giving false ID to police. His bail was set at $1,000.
Tuesday, Dec. 3
Possessing a controlled substance.
A 60-year-old Santa Ana man was arrested on suspicion of possessing a controlled substance and possessing unlawful paraphernalia. His bail was set at $10,500.
DUI. A 37-year-old Dana Point man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. His bail was set at $2,500.
Wednesday, Dec. 4
Obstruction. A 21-year-old La Palma man was arrested on suspicion of obstructing a peace officer and emergency medical personnel. His bail was set at $500.
Small Bites Menu
Rotary Club of Laguna Beach Literary Program Supports Local Schools
BY LB INDY STAFF
including the Literacy District Grant, are funded through proceeds from the Laguna Beach Classic Car Show and Oktoberfest, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Laguna Beach. Additional 2024 grants have been awarded to Get Inspired (getinspiredinc.org) for its environmental stewardship education program and Friendship Shelter (friendshipshelter.org) to support its eff orts to address homelessness.
unwavering dedication to education and student success is a testament to their values, and we are proud to partner with them to create more opportunities for our students.”
Each year, the club awards district grants to support local non-profits, with funds matched by Rotary District 5320, which supports 100 clubs across Orange County and south Los Angeles County. Local non-profits interested in applying for district grants are invited to contact the club at info@ lagunabeachrotary.org.
The Rotary Club of Laguna Beach recently donated 175 dictionaries to third-grade students in Laguna Beach public elementary schools as part of its Literacy District Grant program. In addition to the dictionaries, the club also provides funds for new library books and organizes a monthly reading program, where Rotarian volunteers read to students.
• CRIER
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attended Easter sunrise service (both at Main Beach in Laguna), Cookies with Santa is a Christmastime first for the inter-generational congregation. Laguna Beach United Methodist Church is located at 21632 Wesley Drive in south Laguna Beach, just two blocks off Pacific Coast Highway. Free parking is available in the church parking lot. Further details and event registration are available online at lbumc.org.
Celebrate Christmas in a New Way
The Net-Works Church Creative Arts Community invites the public to enjoy a night of Christmas beauty and artistic expression all about the light of Christmas. Combining dance pieces, poetry, original artwork, and live music by local artists, The Light Has Come aims to tell a familiar story in a fresh new way. Produced by Morea Arthur, the festive event will be held at the Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center on Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $18 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.
District and community grants,
Jason Viloria, superintendent of Laguna Beach Unified School District, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Laguna Beach Rotary for their ongoing support and dedication to our students. Their annual donation of dictionaries enriches our classrooms and fosters a love for learning and literacy among our young learners. Beyond this generous gift, the Rotary’s commitment to our community shines through its numerous scholarships and academic support initiatives. By investing in our students, they are empowering the next generation of leaders and thinkers. The Rotary’s
My Hero International Film Fest Continues With Laguna Beach Event
The MY HERO International Film Festival continues on Dec. 11 at the Rivian South Coast Theater in Laguna Beach. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the event runs from 7 to 9 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are required.
MY HERO will be screening short films from the festival and will honor local legends Greg and Shaun MacGillivray, known for their outstanding educational IMAX documentaries that promote environmental stewardship and conservation.
This year, MY HERO recognizes Greg and Shaun with the Global Educator Award for their documentary Superhuman Body: World of Medical Marvels. The film, narrated by actor Matthew McConaughey, takes the audience on a tour of the human body and explores the scientific breakthroughs that are changing the course of human health. Superhuman Body Behind the Scenes, which offers
a glimpse into the larger film, will screen at the December 11th event.
Katherine Liao, a student from Sage High School, will be acknowledged as the winner of the 2024 Best of Fest Award. Her documentary When the Devil Smoked in Paradise tells the story of a local movement to stop an asphalt plant that was quietly belching toxic chemicals into the local community.
Judy Anderson, Ph.D, President of the Foundation for the Contemporary Family, will present the Relationships First Award to Dima Puchkarev, director of the documentary Grillo. The film follows the story of David “Grillo” Amodio, a man shaped by gang violence, addiction, and incarceration in East L.A. With the support of Homeboy Industries and Father Greg Boyle, he finds redemption and transformation.
Wendy Milette has been at the helm of The MY HERO International Film Festival for 20 years, with her outstanding leadership skills, years of experience as an educator, and a keen knowledge of filmmaking. In addition to running the MY HERO
“Literacy and education are important areas of focus for our club and for Rotary International,” said Julie Hile, Rotary Club of Laguna Beach Community Service Director (20242025). “We are incredibly grateful for the support from local businesses and the community at large, whose participation in our fundraisers helps make these grants possible.”
To learn more about joining or supporting the Rotary Club of Laguna Beach, visit www.lagunabeachrotary. org.
International Film Festival, Milette also helped produce the Laguna Hero Fest, a celebration of local heroes supported by the City of Laguna Beach and local establishments.
Previous honorees include Toni Iseman, Colin Henderson, Gregg Abel, Pam Estes, Stu Saffer, Jodi Gates, Diane Challis Davy, Patsee Ober, Doug Miller, Robin Altman, Nancy Caruso, Judith Anderson, Jeff rey Briar, Marc Ostrick, students and teachers from Laguna Beach schools and Skipper Carrillo. A short tribute for Carrillo, who recently passed away, will screen at the Rivian during the December 11th event.
Watch highlights from the Laguna Hero Fest. This is a model program that has been replicated in other countries and at schools across the United States. MY HERO has Media Arts Resources to help you launch a festival in your community.
WINNING FILMS can be viewed on the MY HERO website. For information about hosting a screening in your community, contact myhero@ myheroproject.org.
Photos courtesy of the Rotary Club of Laguna Beach
Jimmie
