Laguna Art Museum Opens New Exhibit: ‘Reflections of Resilience’ Exhibit
on View Now Through Aug. 25
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
Laguna Art Museum revealed its latest exhibit, Reflections of Resilience, features artwork by the 2024 Master of Fine Art graduates from Laguna College of Art+Design (LCAD).
The exhibit celebrates the completion of the graduates’ artistic journey and showcases their dedication, creativity and individuality.
At LCAD, these artists have honed their skills with a blend of tradition and contemporary vision, resulting in compelling and unforgettable art pieces.
The artists featured in the exhibition include Cara Baxter, Jason Dowd, Amber Foote, Sara Khakpour, Ryanne Phillips, Janaise Sanchez, Eric Theodore and Kevin Yaun.
“We are proud to introduce Reflections of Resilience, featuring the extraordinary work of the 2024 Master of Fine Art graduates from LCAD. It’s always exciting to collaborate with emerging artists who have developed through the expertise and leadership of LCAD,” said
LBHS Grad Lands Role on the Silver Screen
By Tasmin McGill, Special to the Independent
Recent Laguna Beach High School graduate Meg O’Connell, known as Meg Millidge on the big screen, is set to play a supporting role in her biggest project yet, “The Idea of You,” a romantic comedy starring Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine. Millidge read about the Harry Styles fan fic-
tion novel that became a New York Times bestseller and moved to the silver screen through a Deadline news article. After reading the article, she became excited about the script and the fact that she knew a friend of a friend who was linked to it as a co-producer at the time. Although she was in what she considers a
Laguna Beach Police Release Crime Stats for 2023
Report Shows Overall Decrease in Violent and Property Crimes since 2021
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
The Laguna Beach Police Department reported violent and property crimes were down by seven percent in 2023, marking the third year in a row the city has seen an overall decrease.
“This year’s crime statistics demonstrate the outstanding efforts of our police department and the strong support of our community in maintaining Laguna Beach as a safe and welcoming place,” Mayor Sue Kempf said. “The significant reductions in overall crime rates are a testament to our ongoing commitment to public safety. Under the steadfast leadership of police chief Jeff Calvert, we will continue working together to uphold and enhance the safety and well-being of our City.”
The department said there was a seven percent decrease in Part 1 violent and property crimes compared to 2022. Since 2021, there has been a 9% overall decrease.
The 2023 crime statistics show LBPD had a 26% decline in vehicle
LBPD, PAGE 20
LBHS GRAD, PAGE 19
LAM, PAGE 16
Eric Theodore, Skyward, 2023, Courtesy of Laguna Art Museum
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Almost 50 Years On, Hortense Miller Garden Still Flourishes
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
The Hortense Miller Garden, a hidden gem in North Laguna, welcomed nearly 300 visitors to its free open house on Saturday, April 6. The event included guided home and garden tours, a children’s art workshop, and a fascinating talk on “bees.” The open house also featured roaming plein air painters. The garden’s unique features and beauty left the visitors in awe and eager to explore more.
Handmade planters with succulents and salvaged wood from on-site fallen trees were sold for donations.
Hortense Miller and her husband Oscar built their Mid-Century home in North Laguna overlooking Boat Canyon on 2.5 acres in 1958. Oscar died of cancer the following year. Miller, 50 years old at the time, spent the rest of her life developing and maintaining her hillside gardens while living in their home. She passed away in 2008 at the age of 99. Miller was an educator, a passionate environmentalist, an author, and an artist trained at the Chicago Art Institute.
In 1976, Miller’s generous gift of the house and property to the City paved the way for a permanent public garden. This was not just a garden but a testament to community spirit and shared love for nature. The nonprofit Friends of Hortense Miller Garden was established to manage and care for the property,
relying on the dedication of mostly volunteer gardeners and an unpaid Board of Directors.
These individuals, driven by their passion for the garden, oversee the maintenance and provide tour guides and docents. The funds that keep this community effort going are derived from donations and memberships, including some funding by the City.
The garden is open for tours on Thursdays and Saturdays by reservation only through the City Community Services Department at lagunabeachcity. net Visit hortensemillergarden.org for more information on events, workshops, visits, or to become a member.
Over the last two years, the City Council approved more homeowner-friendly runles for the creation of Accessory Dwelling Units in our city. If you weren’t eligible before, you might be now. Contact us to find out how the new rules may work for you.
Laguna ADU, founded by former Laguna Beach Mayor Elizabeth Pearson, is a one-stop resource to help seniors and other Laguna homeowners create Accessory Dwelling Units to rent, to use for a caretaker, and other purposes.
Young nature lovers enjoy a children’s art workshop. Photo courtesy of HMG
Hortense Miller Garden volunteers give a bee presentation during the garden’s annual open house. Photo courtesy of HMG
Docents lead open house participants around the garden grounds. Photo courtesy of HMG
Garden Park Spring Fling and Potluck Next Saturday
South Laguna Community Garden
Park will host its 15th Annual Spring Fling Concert and Potluck on Saturday, April 27, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Garden Park, located at Eagle Rock and Coast Highway in Laguna Beach, located at 31610 Coast Highway. The Laguna Garden Band will be playing everyone’s favorites. Come and enjoy the beautiful spring blooms and tunes, sample healthy dishes inspired by the season, and meet your neighbors!
Please bring your own drinks and a potluck dish to share (serving 10 people). This is a reusable utensil “zero waste” event. For more information, visit SouthLagunaGarden.org or write to GardenPark@SouthLaguna.org.
Robin Culp Celebration of Life this Saturday
The public celebration of life for Robin Culp is Saturday, April 20, at 11 a.m. at Capo Beach Church, located at 25975 Domingo Avenue, Capo Beach. It will be followed by an Aloha reception at Bubba’s Deck on the beach between Sleepy Hollow and Main Beach, 535 S. Coast Highway,
Town Crier
IN AND AROUND LAGUNA BEACH
Laguna Beach. The sunset paddle out will start at 6 p.m. at Brooks Street in Laguna Beach.
Culp won the Boys division in the 32nd Annual Brooks St. Surfing Classic in 1986 and made many finals throughout his years. His obituary can be found on page 14 of this week’s Indy. For more information, contact Brandy Faber at brandyfaber@gmail.com.
In Conversation with Michael Pollan
Earth Day Laguna Networking Event
Find out more about Earth Day and how some local groups address environmental issues on Monday, April 22, evening at the Rivian South Coast Theater. Sponsored by the education-focused Laguna Canyon Conservancy (LagunaCanyonConservancy.org), the
public is invited to hear from presenters from the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Orange County Coastkeeper, Laguna Bluebelt Coalition, Laguna Ocean Foundation, Laguna Beach City officials, Laguna Beach High School FLOW (Fire, Land, Ocean, Water) teachers and students and LCAD art + sustainability program students. Short talks will be presented with accompanying videos or films on climate action, clean water, recycling, ocean and marine life protection. Groups will have information handouts and giveaways; light refreshments will be served. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the two-hour program will start at 6:30 p.m. Attendance is free, but advance reservations are needed at: events. rivian.com/earthdaylaguna.
LBHS Students “Walking for Water”
If you thought today’s teenagers were only interested in local activities, meet the students helping fight the global water crisis. This year’s annual “Walking for Water” event, which will take place from noon to 3 p.m. on April 21 on the high school football
CRIER, PAGE 16
South Laguna Community Garden Park come together during last year’s annual spring fling event. Photo courtesy of the South Laguna Community Garden Park.
A Great District Pool
As the city moves forward with its own pool, you may wonder where this leaves the school district project.
For clarity, city recreation manages and operates all aquatics programs except high school teams. That means virtually everything, and everyone moves to the new city pool facility when it opens.
For the district, school board, high school athletes and coaches, this is great news! It means only the high school coaches and 79 aquatics athletes (in swimming and water polo) will remain at the district pool when it is completed.
Athletes can use their own new pool 100% of the time and current scheduling issues are eliminated.
Coaches can spend more quality time with athletes, as practices can start and end whenever they work and even be extended.
This gives student-athletes a better overall experience and creates the best competitive opportunity for success, as training can be focused and uninterrupted.
The high school pool can now be designed specifically for competition (deep throughout) and large enough to exceed all California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) requirements, but not be so massive as to be wasteful and empty most of the time.
A 35-meter competition pool fits the space, is still very large, and is commonly found in high schools with top aquatics programs in California.
Aquatics experts have also publicly stated that pools of this size are the trend and are more commonly built now than mega pools.
In this scenario, existing buildings could be upgraded and enhanced vs torn down and rebuilt. This would save the school district and taxpayers a projected $8 million in building and $20 million in lifetime costs!
Beyond saving millions, such a pool also saves millions of gallons of water annually and wouldn’t cost the
quarter of a million dollars the mega pool requires (without people) just to operate.
When you consider only 26 student athletes on average (79 over three seasons) will be in any pool during any single season of competition, this option more than supports all usage needs.
A 35-meter pool is the best option for student-athletes, coaches, taxpayers and the district.
As the school district and board revisit pool planning at the high school without all of the city programs, it isn’t too late to do something more sensible for all.
Let’s hope those who have been aggressively pushing for the mega pool will now downsize it appropriately to fit the reality of a second city-owned pool.
Steve Brown, Laguna Beach
CORRECTION: Last week’s front-page story, “Festival of Arts: Nurturing Local Talent, Realizing Dreams” credited the Festival of Arts Foundation for Vanessa Rothe’s scholarship. It was actually a Festival of Arts scholarship.
The Indy regrets the error.
LOCALS LIST!
theIndyPoll
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION
April is “distracted driving awareness month.” How much of an issue is it in Laguna?
- It’s a big issue - 77.78% (7 votes)
- It isn’t a problem in Laguna - 22.22% (2 votes)
TOTAL VOTES: 9
THIS WEEK’S QUESTION Should term limits be set for Laguna’s elected officials?
- Yes - No
TO VOTE, VISIT THE POLL TAB AT LAGUNABEACHINDY.COM. SUBMIT POLL QUESTIONS TO CLARA@FIREBRANDMEDIAINC.COM. The LagunaBeachIndy.com poll is conducted using Crowd
April 23 - Joint City Council/Arts Commission Meeting at 4 p.m. April 23 - Regular City Council Meeting at 5 p.m.
Alex Rounaghi Mayor Pro Tem arounaghi@ lagunabeachcity.net
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
SECOND AND FOURTH THURSDAYS, 5 PM
LOUIS WEIL: lweil@lagunabeachcity.net
KRISTINE THALMAN: kthalman@lagunabeachcity.net
DON SHERIDAN: dsheridan@lagunabeachcity.net
JESSICA GANNON: jgannon@lagunabeachcity.net
TOM GIBBS: tgibbs@lagunabeachcity.net
George Weiss Council member gweiss@lagunabeachcity.net
PLANNING COMMISSION
1ST AND 3RD WEDNESDAYS, 6 PM
STEVEN KELLENBERG, steve@kellenbergstudio.com
KEN SADLER: 616-0517, ken.sadler@cox.net
JORG DUBIN: 497-2618, jdubinart@cox.net
STEVE GOLDMAN: 203-554-2290, steveg415@ymail.com
SUSAN McLINTOCK WHITIN: 838-6317, whitinsusan@gmail.com
lagunabeachcity.net
OTHER ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES: REP. KATIE PORTER,, 1113 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515. 202-225-2415 ASSEMBLYWOMAN DIANE DIXON, 19712 MacArthur Blvd. Ste. 150, Irvine, CA 92612. 949-251-0074 FIFTH DISTRICT SUPERVISOR KATRINA FOLEY,
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CREATIVE &
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OUR LETTER POLICY
E-mail letters to: Clara@firebrandmediainc.com
Letters strengthen community ties and provide a community forum open to all. Due to space constraints we ask letter writers to limit their topics to local concerns, make their submissions exclusive to the Indy alone and be of 400 words or less. Letters should be submitted by Tuesday, 5 p.m. They may be edited for clarity, length or appropriateness as needed. We decline to publish letters that we perceive as personal attacks, even of public figures. We strive for civil discourse over ideas and issues, not personalities. Letter writers must supply their name and contact information. Published letters will only use the writer’s name and city of residence. E-mail letters are preferred.
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Sue Kempf Mayor skempf@lagunabeachcity.net
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Ann Marie McKay City Clerk amckay@lagunabeachcity.net
Laura Parisi City Treasurer lparisi@
Heidi Cleveland at Douglas Elliman
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Sports/Schools
By Frank Aronoff | LB Indy
SUBMISSIONS WELCOME BY 5 PM TUESDAY
SPRING SPORTS UPDATE
Some Laguna sports teams had to compete during the LBUSD “Spring Break” due to the district calendar taking the traditional week later than most of the area public schools The issue will still exist next year as the Breakers will be out-of-step with the other schools in the Pacific Coast League and will be facing a similar scheduling challenge – Congratulations to the players who competed for their teams.
BASEBALL
(10-13, 3-5)
Breakers battled during spring break to stay in the hunt for a playoff spot.
Wednesday, April 10 Marina - WON 4-1
The The Breakers rallied from a 1-0 deficit to take control of the game in the third inning, adding insurance runs in the fifth and six innings to beat the Vikings. San Burchi earned the win off three and 2/3 innings of work, giving up no hits, two walks and striking out three.
Friday, April 12 at Marina - Lost 7-3
The Breakers had completed the first five innings, holding a 3-1 lead off Becker Sybirski’s pitching, but his sixth-inning reliever gave up two doubles, two walks and a hit batter to sink Laguna.
Tuesday, April 16 at Corona del Mar - Lost 3-1
The Sea Kings won 3-1 on just three hits, scoring all their runs in the fourth inning off two Laguna errors. Ben Dawson scored Laguna’s run in the first inning off a double by Logan Pointer.
Wednesday, April 17 Corona del Mar – Lost 9-5
Laguna’s Dane Jenal drove in four runs on two hits but could not hold off the Sea Kings in the Wave League contest played on Wednesday at Skipper Carrillo Field. Breakers banged out 10 hits with four players with two hits (Sybirski, Reed, Jenal, Yencho). CdM had 11 hits and overcame three errors.
Standings after Eight of 12 league games:
Corona del Mar 5-3, Marina and Newport Harbor 4-4, Laguna Beach 3-5
Only the top two teams are guaranteed to go to the playoffs.
Remaining Games: April 19 at Corona del Mar, April 22 against Newport, April 23 at Newport and April 29 against Newport Statistical Leaders through 23 games: Batting Average - .356 Noah Neufeld ; Hits: 21 – Neufeld; Doubles: 5 –Lucas Reed; Runs scored: 12 – Becker Sybirski; RBI’s: 12 – Neufeld; Innings Pitch:56.2 – Becker Sybirski; ERA:
1.66– Branson Wade (W3, L3); Strikeouts 60 – Becker Sybirski
BOYS GOLF (3-10, 0-3)
Laguna played Huntington Beach at The Huntington Club, par 36, on Tuesday, April 11 . The Oilers won the non-league match 187-225. Garrett Arenat from Huntington earned match medalist honors, shooting a two-under-par score of 34. Josh Bellisime was Laguna’s low scorer, with a 41.
On Tuesday, April 16, the Breakers lost another non-league contest to Corona Del Mar 184-210 at the Costa Mesa CC on the Mesa Linda GC, par 35. The medalist was Steven Yang from CdM, who posted a 36 with the low scorers for Laguna - Russell Franconi-Krychman and Joshua Bellisime, both shooting 39. The other team scores for Laguna were Kiyan Arshadi, 43, Davis Dix, 44 and Hudson Mills 45.
GIRLS LACROSSE (12-2, 0-2)
Laguna was back into league action, dropping a tough 8-3 game at Los Alamitos (9-5, 2-1) on Tuesday. Breakers faced Corona del Mar on April 18, Newport on the 23 and close out the regular season on April 25. The team has a great shot at an at-large spot in the D3 playoffs.
SSCIF D3 Poll for April 15: 1 – 1 – El Dorado, 2 – Glendale, 3 – Temecula
Valley, 4 – San Marcos, 5 – Orange Lutheran, 6 – Laguna Beach, 7 – Murrieta Valley, 8 – Northwood, 9 – ML King, 10 – Saugus. Also receiving votes: Aliso Niguel, Cate, Great Oak, Roosevelt, Thacher.
SWIMMING (Boys: 0-3, 0-6, Girls: 0-3, 1-5)
The Breakers dual meet season ended on April 16 with losses to Marina at the local pool. The boys were swamped 116-47, and the girls lost 105-53. Laguna won three varsity events: Ava Knepper in the 50 Free (23.89), 100 Free (54.22) and the Girls 400 Free
Chase Shipp (Jr) captured his third straight Sunset League Boys Dive Title this past Wednesday at Los Alamitos with a school record 592.55 dive score. The Breakers have now won the Sunset Dive crown four straight years. Photo courtesy of Molly Zurflueh
GUEST OPINION:
Concerning City Council
By Michele Monda
The City Council has become a black hole into which questions asked by Councilmembers and residents disappear—totally ignored, not answered and never discussed. This was abundantly obvious at the April 9, 2024 City Council meeting. First, Councilmember Rounaghi commented about a man arrested 15 times over the past year in a Laguna neighborhood. Rounaghi’s remark: he appreciated the LBPD for working with the DA’s office. This is a terrifying situation for residents. Yet there was no follow-up or update from the police department or councilmembers.
Councilmember Weiss asked numerous relevant questions that were never answered. Why hasn’t the current crime statistics report been provided? The last one was March 23, 2023. Why hasn’t the police chief announced its release date even after being asked? Councilmembers need to know these statistics—keeping residents safe is their #1 priority. So when is the report coming?
Weiss asked why the council approved a $1 million increase for our legal services without an agenda item or council discussion. This covers a lawyer present at all Design Review Board and Planning Commission meetings and legal services for the Community Development Department. While this may be a necessary expense, Weiss asked for a report detailing “what events pushed this, what lack of due diligence caused this?” Is this necessary?
Weiss also asked the City Attorney her opinion on whether it was proper and legal to ask staff to initiate an action of a bill to take over Coast Highway – an extremely important and expensive policy issue not discussed or voted on by council. Was this OK? The city attorney’s response: crickets. Incredulously, no other councilmember commented on any of these issues, and Mayor Kempf did not direct any questions at either the police chief or the city attorney. Apparently, the City Council majority has no interest in addressing these legal, fiduciary and public safety problems. Next, it was the residents’ turn to
be ignored at the council meeting regarding Agenda Item 8 - the Audit Committee’s report on audit results for Fiscal Year 2021-22. Two years later and we are only now reviewing this?
Two residents, both CPAs with years of audit experience, asked what substantiates the committee’s audit expertise – pointing out that deficiencies in City audits have been documented since 2016. They also identified serious problems with internal controls, turnover and processes. The city treasurer noted that it’s been three years since the City met the March audit deadline. City Chief Financial Officer Curran claimed the problems were due to high turnover in the finance department.
Astoundingly, the council did not pursue any of these comments. It’s as if they were never even made. Weiss asked for a forensic audit to fix these problems. Nothing was ever advanced to solve the problems other than asking the Acting City Manager/CFO if he could fix these issues with more staff. Yet, under his watch since 2016, these same issues have occurred without any resolution. When asked about the June 30, 2023 audit reports, he stated that they had just been completed and would be available for council to review in six to nine months! One and a half years later?
Then Agenda Item 9 - outsourcing the City’s Investment portfolio instead of continuing to have it handled by the City Treasurer. Residents spoke about the necessity for comparing similar cities’ policies, using proper software, and understanding our own investment policies. Residents and Weiss requested a delay in any decisions until the new city manager could weigh in. Ignored.
While the council admitted that the final version wouldn’t be voted on until the new CM arrived, the condemning comments made by the CPA residents were not considered. Additionally, at 1:14 minutes into the meeting, Mayor Kempf insisted that there was a CPA on the Audit Committee. There is not.
As the liaison for this committee, she should know this. Why the deception? Where is the due diligence of this council in getting complete information before making critical costly decisions? Why are they not concerned about resident safety? Why are they so eager, with minimal or no facts, to spend resident money? Why is Mayor Kempf ignoring requests to get information for councilmembers and residents? Where is the transparency? It’s all in a black hole. And that’s exactly how this council majority likes it.
Michèle is a 21-year Laguna resident and actively follows Laguna politics. She is the Treasurer of Laguna Beach Sister Cities and is involved with the local arts scene. She can be reached at Michelemonda3@gmail.com.
34TH ANNUAL
APRIL 25 –28
A FOUR-DAY GARDEN EVENT
Crate & Barrel/Macy’s Home Store Wing
OVER 40 VENDORS
Unique vendors offering exotic plants and flowers
25-FOOT CENTERPIECE
Designed, created and decorated by Fiesta Parade Floats
8 INSPIRING DISPLAY GARDENS
designed by top Southern California landscape companies and horticulture organizations in collaboration with South Coast Plaza home boutiques to create one-of-a-kind outdoor living spaces
FLEURS DE VILLES: ARTISTE
April 25–28 • Jewel Court
Discover this unique exhibit and experience fresh floral installations inspired by accomplished artists integral to Southern California’s vibrant art scene
EXPLORE NEW SPRING FASHION, HOME DECOR, AND NEW STORES
A.P.C. • Balmain • Bvlgari • Byredo • Cartier
Casper • Crate & Barrel • Gucci • Jil Sander
Maison Margiela • Marni • Pottery Barn
Sur La Table • TYR • West Elm • Williams Sonoma partial listing
By ToM osBorne
GUEST OPINION: GREEN LIGHT
Earth Day 1970 and 2024
Earth Day. It’s my favorite societal event. Even though it’s not a government-sanctioned national holiday, it should be. What other single event is celebrated globally in 192 countries by people of diverse faiths, ethnicities and customs? Earth Day observances have remained true to its founders’ vision. The event is unifying rather
than divisive and reminds us of the sacredness of our blue and white planetary orb spinning in space that is home to virtually all life, all poetry, all art, all that makes us human and getting up each morning worthwhile.
On April 22, 2024, Earth Day will be fifty-four years old. On that day in 1970, some twenty million
Americans, the largest assemblage of demonstrators in U.S. history, celebrated the first Earth Day. Students at 1,500 colleges and 10,000 schools from coast to coast participated in more than 12,000 separate Earth Day events. Assuredly, this was not a spontaneous jubilation. The idea of staging such an epic event was conceived by the late Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson shortly after he spoke on the campus of UC Santa Barbara in the wake of the disastrous 1969 offshore oil spill that blackened beaches and killed marine life along a thirty-five-mile stretch of Santa Barbara’s scenic coast. On the campus, Nelson had witnessed an anti-Vietnam War “teach-in,” wherein students and professors spoke out against U.S. military intervention in Southeast Asia. Aboard his flight from Santa Barbara to UC Berkeley, where he was next scheduled to speak, Nelson hit on the idea of holding environmental teach-ins on campuses across America. On the Berkeley campus, he brought his idea to numerous students for feedback. They liked the idea and encouraged him to act on it. Nelson, a Democrat, wisely decided that such an environmental event really needed to be bipartisan to be optimally effective. He reached out to California Republican Congressman Paul “Pete” McCloskey, who enthusiastically joined with the Wisconsin Senator. The two persuaded Denis Hayes, a recent Stanford graduate, to head up a nationwide youth mobilization effort for the event. Hayes proved to be a brilliant organizer, and the success of the first Earth Day was evidence of that. Later, he became a lawyer and executive director of the Sierra Club, arguably the nation’s largest and most influential environmental organization.
As a Californian, naturally I’m proud of the Golden State’s role in providing a spatial and conceptual context for what was to become an annual Earth Day celebration and teach-in. This year, across our state and the world, Earth Day events galore are scheduled. Always needed, Earth Day events are more critical now than ever. Governments and people are experiencing the ravages of climate change-related mega-wildfires, polluted air from those fires and factories, the bleaching of coral reefs, epic floods, sea level rise from the melting polar ice sheets, life-threatening heat domes, species die-offs, mass human migrations, and more.
All these extreme weather and related events provide the curriculum for this year’s Earth Day
Street Beat
EXCERPTS FROM POLICE LOGS
teach-ins and conversations about what actions need to be taken now, especially by us who live in the developed world. We’re the ones positioned to lead the transition away from the age of planet-heating fossil fuels into a new dispensation of renewable, clean energy.
This focus on a needed energy transition and related environmental matters will be explored at Laguna Beach’s Earth Day celebration on April 22 at Rivian South Coast Theater. Doors open at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Laguna Canyon Conservancy, this event is free and open to the public; to attend, you must register in advance at Rivian events: events.rivian.com/ earthdaylaguna. Let’s dedicate this Laguna event to our children and grandchildren, who count on us to take the prompt actions necessary to provide them with a livable environment.
Tom Osborne co-leads, with his wife Ginger, the Laguna chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, a nonprofit civic sector organization that advocates for putting a price on carbon emissions and returning the proceeds to taxpayers. tomosborne@ cox.net
Thursday, April 11
DUI. A 46-year-old Grand Rapids, Mich. man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on $2,500 bail.
Burglary, parole violation, resisting an officer. Nathan John Turner, 43, was arrested on suspicion of burglary, parole violation, and resisting an executive officer. He was held without bail.
Friday, April 12
DUI. A 64-year-old Aliso Viejo man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on $2,500 bail.
Saturday, April 13
Failure to register. Kyle Albert Winton, 44, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of failing to register as a transient. He was held without bail.
Bench warrant. David Scott Raines, 57, of Beaumont was arrested on suspicion of an outstanding bench warrant. He was held without bail.
DUI. A 72-year-old Laguna Beach woman was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. She was held on $2,500 bail.
Battery. Lynwood Randolph Morgan, 73, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of battery. He was held on $10,000 bail.
Sunday, April 14
Burglary. Johnathan Christian Hattaway, 46, of Laguna Beach, was arrested on suspicion of burglary and receiving known stolen property. He was held on $40,000 bail. Bench warrant. Ivan Martinezgonzalez, 20, of Huntington Beach was arrested on suspicion of an outstanding bench warrant. He was held without bail.
Monday, April 15
No arrests reported.
Tuesday, April 16
Petty theft, shoplifting. Sabrina Lynn Davis, 33, was arrested on suspicion of false identification to specific peace officers and petty theft. She was held on $500 bail.
Wednesday, April 17
Possessing a controlled substance, bringing a controlled substance into a jail and identity theft. Krystal Joy Adams, 39, of Victorville, was
arrested on suspicion of possessing a controlled substance, bringing a controlled substance into a jail and identity theft. She was held on $20,500 bail.
Suspended license. Vincent Lamont Robinson, 41, of Victorville, was arrested on suspicion of driving on a revoked license. He was held without bail.
Obstructing a police officer, trespassing, possessing a controlled substance. Joshua Tyrone Webster, 47, of Costa Mesa, was arrested on suspicion of obstructing a police officer, trespassing, and possessing a controlled substance. He was held on $2,500 bail.
Possessing a controlled substance. Darrrian Robinson, 30, of Long Beach, was arrested on suspicion of possessing a controlled substance, possessing a controlled substance and driving under the influence of drugs. He was held on $3,000 bail.
Garden Tour
Saturday, May 4 Entries 10 to 2
By MarK d. cranTZ
I envisioned my later years to be one of coasting. Ah, you know, retirement, a period of time when you aren’t on the road chasing down dollars. Well, I had it half right. I’m coasting on Coast Highway. But… There’s not much coasting going on Coast Highway. Stopping on Coast Highway is what it is. Stopping. And stopping. Some more stopping. And then, let’s see, more stopping. I’ve gotten good at stopping. When I pull out of my driveway, I stop. There isn’t even
LEGAL NOTICE
A public hearing to consider the adoption of the Laguna Beach County Water District’s Miscellaneous User Fee Schedule and Water Capacity Fee Schedule will be held on May 23, 2024, at 5:30 PM, at the Laguna Beach County Water District, 306 Third Street, Laguna Beach, California. A copy of the Comprehensive Fee Study Report is available for review at the District’s office and online at www.lbcwd.org. For more information, contact the District at 949-494-1041.
a stop light or stop sign requiring me to stop. But I do it as practice before I get on Coast Highway, where all you do is stop. It’s a brake pad warm-up. You don’t want to get on Coast Highway with cold brake pads. Warm ‘em up.
If ever a highway needed a new name, it’s Coast Highway. All kinds of other stuff goes on Coast Highway. There’s curbing on Coast Highway. There’s landscaping on Coast Highway. There’s sewage repair on Coast Highway. There’s lane painting on Coast Highway. There are pedestrian crossings on Coast Highway. Everything but coasting on Coast Highway.
I’m probably more sensitive than most other drivers. My car is a manual transmission. Most people drive an automatic transmission. My car requires pushing in the clutch and then manually changing gears. There are six gears, seven if you count reverse, which I’ve used more often in desperate attempts to get off of Coast Highway.
I’ve gotten close to my car. We are both stopped so much that we pass the time talking. I’ve given the car a name, Emanual. The manual part is easy to figure out. The “E” before it is my joke that there is nothing electric about this old Porsche. It’s
a gas guzzler. And don’t tell Tom Osborne of the Green Light column. Tom is all about being green and environmentally aware. Only Kermit the Frog is greener than Tom. I just know if Emanual and I could just get going a little bit above stopped, we could leave a much smaller carbon tire print. We’ll do better next time, Tom.
It’s my own fault. I fell for all these TV commercials where you see people speeding down the highway of life with the wind blowing in their hair, joy on their faces, and just having a darn good time going to someplace great. That’s not happening to me. I’m stopped on Coast Highway stuck in first gear, holding in the clutch, trying to not think of my leg cramp, while pulling down my baseball cap, praying I don’t get skin cancer on my way to another grocery store other than Gelson’s where I hope the prices are lower, if I can get there faster than inflation. Not like the commercials, right?
I’m still in first gear. I spot a group of teenage girls on the corner of a crosswalk. The crosswalk sign is flashing. I stop. The teenagers are talking to one another. They’re
PET PEEVES, PAGE 20
CA
Coast Hardware Laguna Beach salutes the community!
After 100 years of history, Ace Hardware nationwide celebrates a century. Coast Hardware in Laguna Beach has been around half that long with unique customer loyalty and extra helpful employees. A downtown landmark since the ’70s, Coast Hardware has provided close knit Laguna with unique personal service reflecting hometown values.
While Coast Hardware has become a downtown landmark, being available for residents through the years has also been our first goal, says General Manager, Trevor Ullom. “We seek to provide individual customer interaction to allow our residents to know we are here for you;” he says with a big smile. “If we succeed in maintaining and building neighborhood relationships that grow stronger through the years, then we’ve also been effective giving back to Laguna Beach and providing useful products.”
Coast Hardware also boasts a group of very long-term employees. Between Dave, Vicky and Sandy,
nearly 100 years of collective experience are combined, which is hard to surpass along with Coast Hardware’s regular staff. Until last year, faithful manager Ed Leatherwood would have also added an additional 30 years to Coast Hardware’s history.
Coast Hardware is proud to provide distinctive goods. Whether garden tools, home gourmet and unusual gifts; hardware fasteners, paint, plumbing or electrical; “Coast Hardware competes with the largest of big box stores and remains the ‘little engine that could.’ Wherever we have demand, we certainly try to make it available to the public,” says Trevor.
Major brands Coast Hardware carries include Yeti, Milwaukee Power Tools, DeWalt Power Tools, Fiesta Tableware, Up Paint (Upcycled Paint), Big Green Egg, Traeger Grills and Weber BBQ’s. For the specialty items, Coast Hardware has local gift items and beach accessories, all of these make Coast Hardware a
unique and pleasant Laguna Beach experience for locals and visitors. Coast Hardware is a Hidden Gem within the local community. Thank you to all of Laguna for supporting Coast Hardware.
Stop by Coast Hardware today. Let’s build something together.
Coast Hardware (949) 497-4404
240 Broadway Street Laguna Beach, CA 92651
NEW TREATMENT OPTION: COLD LASER THERAPY
We are thrilled to announce the introduction of a groundbreaking treatment option Cold Laser Therapy
This innovative therapy is effective for a wide range of conditions, including infections, dental procedures, degenerative joint disease, fractures, wounds, and more. Whether your pet is suffering from a chronic ailment or recovering from surgery, cold laser therapy offers a versatile and non-invasive solution.
CO2 surgical laser helps reduce bleeding, infection, pain and inflammation at surgery site along with quick recovery.
WALK-INS/URGENT CARE
Don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule your consultation and discover the transformative benefits of cold laser therapy.
OTHER SERVICES:
We welcome walk-ins and are ready to cater your emergency & urgent care needs. We have advanced equipment to help your pet in an emergency.
• Bathing • Boarding • Preventive Care • Dental Care • Diagnostic Imaging • Puppies & Kittens
Mon–Fri: 8am–6pm Sat: 8am–2pm
Relay (Kara Carver, Emmy Hensley, Sophia Billy and Ava Knepper), won with a 3:58.49 time.
League finals are next week.
Diving Update: Chase Shipp broke his school record with a 592.55 diving score to capture the Sunset League diving title for the third straight year and hand the Breakers their fourth straight Sunset diving crown. The league meet was held on April 17 at Los Alamitos High School.
BOYS TENNIS (3-2, 3-9)
Laguna defeated Fountain Valley 10-8 on Tuesday, April 16, at the Baron’s courts, with Luke Jolley sweeping his singles sets 6-0, 6-1, 6-0 and the Double team of Chris Herkins/Sam Wong prevailing 6-3, 6-3, 6-4.
The #2 doubles team of Lucas Silverman/Owen Britt went 2-1 with a narrow 6-7 loss followed by two 6-3 set wins. The Breakers other two points were scored in singles wins by Seth Hanson and Jan Cook.
The season concluded on April 17 – Marina and April 18 - Huntington Beach, both on the Park Avenue
OBITUARY
Blake T. Franklin
Blake T. Franklin was born September 28, 1942, in San Mateo, Calif., to parents Harvey James and Marie Agnes Franklin. He attended Menlo-Atherton High School. Blake graduated from Dartmouth College, cum laude, in 1963, and from Harvard Law School in 1966. He taught law in Costa Rica through the U.S. Peace Corps upon graduation. In 1969, Blake joined Coudert Brothers where he developed a transactional practice with an international focus. Blake had an outstanding reputation in the business community and was very much a citizen of the world. He was gifted with languages and was fluent in Spanish and French.
Blake joined Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher as a partner in the New York office in 1983. He specialized in international transactions, including project finance, partnerships, joint ventures, and corporate transactions. Blake had a national and global practice; he was admitted to the California Bar in 1966, the Washington, DC Bar in 1969, and the New York Bar in 1976. He served as a Visiting Professor of Commercial Law at the University of Costa Rica and as an International Legal Advisor
courts. League individuals are next week.
TRACK & FIELD (0-3, 0-3)
The Sunset Wave League meet is set for April 16 (Prelims) at Marina High School, with the finals on April 26 at the same site.
BOYS VOLLEYBALL (0-6, 5-17)
Breakers 2024 season concluded on April 17 with a tough 25-13, 25-21, 2516 loss at Fountain Valley. Kai Patchell led the team with 16 kills in the effort.
Last week, the squad hosted Marina on April 11 with just six players and only two starters battling the Vikings losing 25-21, 25-21, 28-26. Kai Patchell recorded 27 kills hitting .524 from the outside. Ben Goodwin stepped in as setter, recording 31 assists, while Parker Gapp provided key serve-receive passing and 10 digs.
At the Garden Grove Tournament, the short-handed squad went 2-2 on the day, narrowly losing to the eventual champion La Serna 25-18, 29-27.
Have a note/question on Laguna Beach sports/correction/update? E-mail Frank at fa1949@cox.net. Looking for the 2023-24 high school schedules and scores? Check Laguna Beach High School on the Max Preps website.
for the Government of Bolivia in 1993. Blake was a modern-day Renaissance man. He was sophisticated, well-read, well-spoken, and impeccably dressed. He was kind, generous and compassionate, comfortable with different cultures and genuinely interested in people and the broader world. He was an elegant man with a compassionate heart and a brilliant mind. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
Blake retired Jan. 1, 2008. In retirement, he split his time between his homes in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Laguna Beach and was active in both communities.
Blake served on the Board of Columbia University and the National Law Center in Tucson. Blake was on the GLSEN Board, and he was also very active as a Trustee of the Union Theological Seminary for nearly 25 years during which he chaired or participated in virtually every committee of the Board. Blake viewed the seminary as the spiritual and intellectual home that kept him grounded and joyfully engaged. Blake also served on the boards of Feeding Santa Fe and Andean Resources, SA. and AIDS Service Foundation (ASF) Orange County
He was being treated for multiple myeloma and ultimately succumbed to complications from his chemo treatments.
His funeral service was at St. Mary’s Laguna Beach, where his memorial remains.
Blake is survived by his long-time husband, Tom Getgood, his sister, Barbara Quinton, his brother, Barry Franklin, and his nephews, Derek and Colin Franklin.
OBITUARY
Robin Aaron Culp
Robin Aaron Culp passed away peacefully with his family and friends by his side on March 4, 2024, at the age of 53, after a courageous 6-month battle with lung cancer.
Robin was born on Feb. 26, 1971, in the small seaside community of Carmel, Calif. Soon after, Robin and his family moved to Laguna Beach, where he grew up. He spent his childhood surfing and developing friendships at Thalia and Brooks Street beaches and the Boys and Girls Club in the canyon. As an avid ripping surfer, Robin became passionate about many other sports, including skimboarding, skateboarding, snowboarding, fishing and mountain biking. A lifelong waterman and competitor, Robin’s smooth style was well recognized and loved in the surfing community and won him multiple local surf and skimboard competitions. The ocean and surfing played a huge role throughout Robin’s life, with many surf trips to Hawaii, Tavarua and Baja. He owned property
on the North Shore of Oahu, where he visited often with his loving family.
After graduating high school in the summer of 1989, Robin attended Saddleback College.
Robin witnessed the devastating destruction of the 1993 Laguna Beach Fire firsthand, and decided to begin his career of service to the community and trained to become a firefighter. Robin served National City Fire Department, Carlsbad Fire Department and Orange County Fire Authority over the past 25 years. Robin served as a firefighter paramedic, fire apparatus engineer, fire captain/paramedic and was a member of the technical rescue team and FEMA Ca-Task Force 5.
Robin was well respected in the department and had a reputation as a first-class leader who brought a sense of calm to his fire crews, whether in an emergency situation or at the station. Robin and his wife Katie were happily married for 23 beautiful years and raised their two children together, son Jackson, age 20, and daughter Madison, age 18.
Robin was a dedicated family man and a loving friend to all. He will be remembered for his selfless nature and generosity.
Simply put, “Robin was the coolest.”
Robin is survived by his wife Katie, son Jackson, daughter Madison, mother Sharon Ashauer, brother Ryan Ashauer, and stepfather Hans Ashauer. There will be an “Aloha Attire” Celebration of Life for Robin on Saturday, April 20, at 11 a.m. at Capo Beach Church, 25975 Domingo Ave., Capo Beach, Calif., 92624.
This will be followed by a paddle out at Brooks St. Beach at 6 p.m.
The Breakers skipped the district “spring break” to fulfill their schedule commitment with two Sunset Conference schools and the annual Garden Grove tournament. From left to right: The 2024 Boys Volleyball Squad: #35 Kai Fong (Fr), #27 Parker Gapp (Sr), #33 Luke Tankersley (Jr), #32 Kai Patchell (Jr), #23 Ben Goodwin (Jr) and #24 Quinn Halloran (Fr). Photo courtesy of Laguna Athletics.
$70
$80
$120
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• Live music by Typical Gypsys
• Art exhibition by LCAD
• Silent auction & opportunity drawing
To you, our generous sponsors, auction donors, friends and neighbors, local firefighters and volunteers who continue to inspire us daily in support of our mission and way forward.
We celebrated Legacy Award recipients Cindy Prewitt, Sam Goldstein and Laguna Beach Live! for their legacy of philanthropy and community service, and are forever grateful to Cornerstone Award recipient the Jerry C. Dearing Family Foundation for underwriting this year’s gala.
Superstar
Big Dipper
Roya Cole
Shining Star
Crevier Family Foundation
Christina & Warren Haines
Ann-Eve Hazen Family Fund
Monica Richards
Deborah & Cody Engle
Kling Family Foundation—
Vicki S. & Trigg Gumm
George Heed & Dr. Korey Jorgensen
Kitty & Richard Malcolm Wilson Automotive Group
Wishing on a Star
Mae & Morris Ho
Ruth Stafford, PhD
Kristine Thalman
North Star
Alvarez & Company, LLP
Clara Frantz
Julie & Garrett Grajek
Peter Kote
Lee Kucera
Barbara & Greg MacGillivray
Sue & John Prange
Melanie Rosa
Katherine Salter
Daniel & Francine Scinto
U.S. Bank Foundation
Bart Zanbergen
Karen & Jim McBride
Mary Lou Mooney
Cheryl Post
Stephany & Morris Skenderian
ComForCare Home Care Renae Hinchey
Barbara Hamkalo, PhD Lisa & John Mansour
Sharon & George Orff
Sally Ann & Don Sheridan
Tarbox Crystal Star
Auction Donors
Mary
Carolyn & Dr. Thomas Bent Dollface
Rock Martin Jewelry Ruth Mayer Gallery
Sapphire Restaurant
Simple Laguna Clothing
of Nicks
Not Your Granny’s Garden Club
Admit it: you hear “garden club” and you think of grannies who gather only to chat about begonias... snooze. Shattering that cliche, the Laguna Beach Garden Club (LBGC) is a vibrant, energetic organization with over 225 members, male and female of all ages that are focused on giving to the Laguna Beach community and having fun socializing with one another.
Monthly club meetings feature topnotch speakers on a range of topics from vermiculture and vegetables, to ikebana and hybridization techniques with offerings of best-selling books or exotic plants for purchase. We also organize trips to specialty nurseries and historic gardens and offer craft and jewelry making classes for members only. Meetings are held on the second Friday of the month from September - May in Tankersley Hall at Laguna Presbyterian Church, 415 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach.
Did you know that:
• The LBGC awards scholarships to Saddleback College horticulture students and to college-bound seniors from Laguna Beach High School who are interested in horticulture and related fields.
• The club provides donations and
volunteers to share knowledge and garden with students at the educational school gardens in El Morro and Top of the World Elementary Schools and Thurston Middle School.
• Club members maintain the “Pocket Park” on Forest Avenue in downtown Laguna Beach and the Rose Garden at Laguna Presbyterian Church and are benefactors of the Hortense Miller Garden.
• Our most recent accomplishment is bringing muralist Matt Willey to Laguna Beach to paint a mural at the Laguna Beach County Water District for engaging citizens in the movement to save pollinators.
The annual Gate & Garden Tour is our most important fundraising event that makes possible the scholarships, support of school gardens and other initiatives. The popular tour gives
the public opportunities to view several delightful gardens that Laguna Beach residents lovingly share. We anticipate this year’s tour, which is set for Saturday, May 4, 2024, will sell out quickly as it has in the last three years. After May 1 and subject to availability, tickets will be $65 plus handling fee.
For more information contact lagunabeachgardenclub.org
field, raises funds to build freshwater wells in West Africa and India so villagers can access clean water.
Since the fundraising began 21 years ago, more than 500,000 men, women, and children now drink clean water daily.
This year’s event will bring together students, faculty, and community members. To help support the cause, there will be games for youngsters to play, clothing and other items for sale.
“Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, yet millions of people, especially in developing countries, struggle to obtain this basic necessity,” said student advisor Susan Hough. “Through this event, we aim to raise funds and educate the community about the global water crisis and inspire action towards sustainable solutions.”
Walking for Water is a designated project of the nonprofit Wisdom Spring organization. To learn more about Wisdom Spring or to participate in the April 21 event, visit wisdomspring.org.
Greater Laguna Beach GOP Meeting to Feature Police Chief Calvert
The GLBGOP’s Members’ Meeting is happening on Wednesday, April 24 at Mozambique in Laguna Beach. Our guest speaker this month is the Laguna Beach Police Chief Jeff Calvert. We look forward to hearing from Chief Calvert, a 25-year veteran of the Laguna Beach Police Force and our community. He will discuss his vision for the police force and how its members protect and defend our city. The Chief knows that interacting with the community is critical to our safety and his department’s success. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask the Chief questions. We have had great attendance at our last several meetings and we are getting ready to support our local candidates in the upcoming election. The event will start at 5 p.m. with a social hour, and the meeting will start at 6 p.m. in the newly remodeled Parrot’s Room. Attendees can mingle with fellow conservatives and enjoy Mozambique’s wonderful food and beverages. Seating is limited. RSVPs are required. Please RSVP at glbgop. com/upcomingevents.
Craft Guild Art Show Sunday
The next Laguna Craft Guild Art Show is Sunday, April 21. Shop local at Laguna’s longest-running downtown art fair and find treasures, including jewelry, ceramics, glass-
blown art, paintings, and more. The Laguna Craft Guild art show is located on the cobblestones of Main Beach. Over 30 different artists exhibit unique and handmade arts and crafts. The craft show starts at 9 a.m. and closes one hour before sunset. More information is available at lagunacraftguild.com.
Tomato-Fest Seeding Sale This Weekend
The South Laguna Community Garden Park will hold the “Laguna Beach Tomato-Fest Seedling Sale” on April 21 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Garden Park at 31610 Coast Highway. Why does tomato growing in our coastal zone often produce disappointing harvests? One reason is that we are often selecting tomato varieties that are adapted to other climates. Assistant Director Carly Sciacca decided to conduct research and acquired a selection of unique, disease-resistant seeds from different sources that promise to thrive in our coastal zone. The collection features tomatoes of all colors and sizes including heirlooms and hard-to-find hybrids, some of which fetch over a dollar a seed! Included are Lemon Boy Plus, Gin Fiz, Cherokee Purple, Clementine, Big Beef Plus, Japanese Black Trifel, Crimson Carmello, Celebrity, Marnour and Juliet. All
three-hundred plus plants have been seeded and cared for by Community Garden members, and all proceeds benefit the Garden Park. Suggested Donation is $4 each or $10 for three plants. Any remaining plants will be available for sale at the Garden Park’s annual Spring Fling Festival and Potluck (Saturday, April 27, 3 p.m.-5 p.m.) featuring live music by the Garden Band.
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Julie Perlin Lee, executive director of Laguna Art Museum. “Year after year, this exhibition provides a pulse on critical thinking and contemporary issues in figure painting.”
The detailed paintings and drawings explore the intersection of personal introspection and external realities. The Reflections of Resilience exhibit hopes to invite art lovers to engage with the rational and the poetic and encourage thoughtful contemplation and reflection.
For more information about Reflections of Resilience, visit lagunaartmuseum.org. Laguna Art Museum is located at 307 Cliff Drive in Laguna Beach, on the corner of Coast Highway and Cliff Drive.
Crier PAGE 4
Carter Celebrates 90th Birthday
Longtime writer of letters to the Laguna Beach Independent Roger Carter celebrated his 90th birthday at Las Brisas with Rachael Berger, executive director of Sally’s Fund on April 9. Carter is a longtime fan of the nonprofit, which provides low-cost, escorted and assisted transportation for Laguna Beach’s seniors and disabled individuals. His most recent Indy missive outlined the service’s features aimed at helping older adults live safely in their homes for as long as possible. Photo courtesy of Barbara McMurray
Local Realtor Named as Orange County ‘Woman of Distinction’
By LB Indy Staff
On April 4, the Laguna Board of REALTORS executive vice president Bobbie Jordan, along with other accomplished women of Orange County, received a prestigious award at the District Office in Huntington Beach. Jordan was nominated to receive the Woman of Distinction award
of the 36th Senate District by Sen. Janet Nguyen. The certificate is given to leaders for their dedication and contribution to the community and their impact on the lives of others. During the reception, Senator Nguyen presented the certificate to each of the women, thanking them for their achievements.
Laguna Beach relator Bobbie Jordan receives a Woman of Distinction award from Sen. Janet Nguyen. Photo courtesy of Sen. Nguyen’s office.
Stop by Coast Hardware Today. Let's Build Something Together.
Susi Q’s Legacy Ball Brings Joy and Contributions to one of Laguna’s Favorite Nonprofits
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
On Saturday evening, April 6, Laguna Beach Seniors and Susi Q celebrated its 15th Legacy Ball fundraising event, which raised $380,000 for the nonprofit.
“We had a great time hosting 200 guests at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort in Dana Point,” said Nadia Babayi, executive director of the Susi Q.
“This year, for the first time, the event was underwritten. We are most appreciative of the Jerry C. Dearing Family Foundation for their generous contribution and for donating a table of 10 to enable firefighters to attend the gala,” Babayi said.
The Jerry C. Dearing Family Foundation is a family-run private foundation helping public charitable purposes, principally for support, encouragement and assistance to Houston-based nonprofits. The family is extending contributions to California as per their trustee, Kristin Dearing, who lives in Laguna Beach.
“Another kind donor, George Heed, generously provided a matching donation of $25,000 during the gala when the Fund-A-Need fundraising started. He made this gift in honor of our late friend Norman Powell, who used to provide the same matching
gift at our event,” Babayi said.
Wilson Automotive Group sponsored an entire table so that seniors who could not afford the cost of the gala could attend.
Event co-chairs were Stephany Skenderian, Board Vice President, and major donor George Heed. Christine Brewer was the event manager.
“I’m proud of our entire event committee, which included volunteers and Board members. Zack Krone was our auctioneer and helped us raise
funds through Fund-A-Need and Live Auction,” Babayi added. “Live Auction items included the firefighter’s dinner, which raised $9,000, purchased by Roya Cole, a generous contributor and a firefighter fan. We are most grateful to our firefighters for supporting our gala year after year.”
The planning has already started for the 2025 Legacy Ball, which will celebrate 50 years of service to the community.
Visit www.thesusiq.org to review
the many ongoing programs that Susi Q offers, from ukulele lessons, to standing yoga, to bridge and mahjong classes, not to mention support groups and clubs for special interest groups ranging from genealogy to current affairs to books and so much more. The Susi Q’s Care Management Department (now the Dorene Cares Office) provides free consultation, education and practical resources for vulnerable seniors, enabling them to stay safe, informed, and independent.
(Department of Transportation Requirement). It
City Maintenance Facilities 1900 Laguna Canyon Road
Vehicles will not be permitted to enter drop - off area after 12:00 p.m.
Pedestrian traffic is not allowed.
Materials should be in original containers. All containers must have lids, be sturdy and secure, non-leaking, labeled and protected from breakage. Materials will only be accepted from vehicles.
Waste is strictly limited to residents & small businesses.
Residents Only : Please bring proof of residency
Businesses Only : Please bring Business License Number
Alarm Clocks/ Answering Machines/ Cell Phones*/ Telephones/ Copiers / CD/ DVD Players/ Camcorders Video Game Consoles/ Radios/ Stereos (NO speakers)/ TV’s/ CRTs/ Flat Screens/ Computers/ Monitors/ CPUs/ Laptops*/ Digital Cameras/ Thermometers/ Display Boards on Exercise Equipment/ Home Use Medical Monitors/ iPods/ MP3 Players/ PDAs/ Microwave Ovens/ Programmable Kitchen Devices/ Printers/ Scanners/ Fax Machines
WASTE
Batteries (Alkaline, Lithium, Mercury, NiCad, Small Lead Acid)/ Aerosols (Cans)/ Mercury Thermometers / All Lamps/ Light Bulbs/ (Rechargeable batteries which include lithium-ion will NOT be accepted.)
oil and latex paints. 5 -gallon and smaller containers only! NO
left: The Butler family. (L-R) Kim Hannan (Patti’s sister), Brett Butler (son), Patti Butler (sister-in-law), Lisa Butler (daughter); above: The Quilter family: (L – R) Current Emeritus Council and former Board President Chris Quilter, current Emeritus Council and former Board President Christina (Tina) Haines, major donor Charles (Charlie) Quilter. Photos courtesy of Jo Ann Ekblad
“dry spell” for auditions, she was determined to snag one for this film.
“I was like, ‘I gotta make this happen. If I can get an audition for it, a huge pat on the back, mission accomplished,” Millidge said.
This was her chance.
Millidge reached out through her connection to ask about auditioning. After weeks of emails, she was told that auditions had not begun since the film was still in pre-production. She was told that she would hear from them when they started.
Rather than wait, Millidge continued to reach out via email to check in and stay on their minds. She even connected with a casting director she previously worked with to hone in on her audition skills, so that she would be ready when the call came.
Not only did Millidge get the call, but she also landed the role of Claire, personal assistant to Hathaway’s character in the movie. Just a few weeks later, she was off to Atlanta, Georgia, to begin filming in October 2022.
Although she has been on television sets, appearing on Bones and having a five-episode role on Twisted, her first day on set on The Idea of You was nerve-wracking. Millidge not only had to familiarize herself with the movie set, but also meet and remember the names of the crew and cast.
“It was a lot to juggle the first day, but so much fun,” Millidge said.
While working alongside the movie star Anne Hathaway, Millidge took the opportunity to gain knowledge.
“It was so informative watching her work. I’ve been such a fan of hers since The Princess Diaries,” Millidge said. “It was so cool being around her and seeing her do her own thing, preparing before a scene, seeing how she works –just being there was cool.”
Growing up, Millidge loved to play pretend. Coming from a family that had annual passes to Disneyland, she
was heavily influenced by what some believe is the most magical place on Earth.
“She listened to all the Disney stories over and over and loved to dance around, sing and pretend,” said Millidge’s mom, Karen O’Connell.
Millidge pays homage to her mom by using her maiden name, Millidge, as her stage name.
O’Connell remembers Millidge wearing her older sister’s dance costumes, clipping colorful hair pieces in and filling the mornings with songs.
“I could never carry a tune in a bucket, nor could her older sister. Oh my goodness, it fascinated me,” O’Connell said of Millidge’s singing. “To see her enjoy it and have a natural ability – I was happy to find places for her.”
Throughout her childhood, she took dance, acting and singing classes. From elementary through high school, she was involved in plays and musicals as well.
Although Millidge majored in sociology at Loyola Marymount University after graduating from Laguna Beach High School, she minored in studio arts and was involved with performing arts classes at the university and around Los Angeles.
From scene study, audition, movement, and improv classes; continuous training and the desire to sharpen her skills are important to Millidge.
“Your needs kind of change. You get to know yourself a little better,” Millidge said.
During the Screen Actors GuildAmerican Federation of Television and Radio Artists strike in 2023, Millidge turned to her acting classes for solace.
Along with reaching a fair deal and taking care of her mental health, she prioritized surrounding herself with laughter. For Millidge, taking classes brings her back to what is important and why she loves acting in the first place.
“I know a bunch of people who got back into class just really trying to enjoy the craft side of it while the business side was on hold,” Millidge said. “It was so nice to meet new people, play together, and explore funny characters and scenarios.”
Now that the SAG-AFTRA strike is over and The Idea of You premieres May 2 on Amazon Prime Video, Millidge is looking towards the future and wants to “do it all.”
“I don’t have any projects lined up, but if you know someone who knows someone, let me know,” Millidge said with a laugh. “I am staying hopeful and grateful for this year, and who knows what can happen. That is the biggest message I have – you never know what can happen. The hard thing about this industry is you never know, but then you could get an audition tomorrow.”
Laguna Beach High School graduate Meg Millidge (O’Connell) will play a supporting role in the upcoming romantic comedy “The Idea of You,” starring Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine. Photo courtesy of Meg Millidge
Free Botox for your Bunny Lines with a $400 purchase of any treatment and/or product in April!
The Easter Bunny is the only one who can get away with Bunny Lines. Luckily for the rest of us, there is Botox! Laguna Beach Aesthetics is offering free Botox for your Bunny Lines with the purchase of any $400 treatment and/or procedure for the month of April! Botox works to relax the nasalis muscle, which in turn softens the wrinkles around the bridge of the nose. Call Laguna Beach Aesthetics today to book your appointment to erase your Bunny Lines!
Dr. O’Connell performs all procedures and consultations herself.
DR. ADRIENNE O’CONNELL
610 N Coast Hwy, Suite 208 Laguna Beach, CA 92651 info@lagunabeachaesthetics.com www.lagunabeachaesthetics.com 949.415.4310
Pet Peeves
dressed for the beach. The clutch is in. One girl says something to the others. I can’t make it out. It must be funny. Everybody is laughing, but me. I’m getting a leg cramp from the clutch. The girls aren’t crossing. They’re looking at their phones. I tell Emanual to hold on, the crosswalk lights are still flashing. I ask Emanual what could the girls be looking at on their phones. Emanual doesn’t answer because he’s busy sucking down premium gas. I throw the stick to neutral to give my leg a rest. One girl points to her phone and all the girls scrunch down to look at her screen. I think they may be shopping online and filling up their checkout carts. The driver behind me lays on the horn. I mumble to Emanual of our bad luck to have the only California driver paying attention to the road and not grooming, eating or reading a book. Finally, after what seems like an eternity, the girls wave at a group of teenage boys on the other side. That does the trick. The girls hurry across. I put in the clutch, shift to first and go. Nowhere. It’s bumper to bumper, leaving me now stuck in the middle of a multiple-way crosswalk. The guy behind me exercises his horn again. The girls come back to the multiple-way crosswalk. The boys must have been yucky and stinky, as boys usually are. Their unhappiness spills over at me for blocking their crosswalk escape back. Coast Highway is fun, right?
GUEST OPINION: MUSINGS ON THE COAST
Blue Moon
By Michael ray
BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!
For maybe six months, I had been dating the woman who was to become the love of my life. It was New Year’s Eve, but I was alone in Laguna at my place, and she was alone in L.A. at her place. I wanted to ask her down but didn’t dare to ask; it was already 10 p.m., and would she answer the phone? Come down on the spur of the moment? Reject me? I worked up my nerve and called; an hour later she was here. She had a bottle of nice red wine and a plan. “We’re going to the beach to watch the blue moon at midnight.”
“What? It’s too damn cold.”
“Come on. Bundle up. We’re going.”
Crantz tells the Indy that he wonders what 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th gears feel like.
So down we went to my secret cove, laid out a blanket, poured a cup, looked up. Then it hit me.
theft, lowering the number from 47 incidents in 2022 to 35 in 2023. Additionally, there was a 6% decrease in larceny cases.
However, in 2023, there were four more reported robberies than the previous year. Weapons were involved in only two of the robberies, demonstrating that the use of weapons in these incidents is relatively uncommon.
“This reduction in overall crime is a testament to the unwavering passion of our police force, coupled with the incredible support of our community,” Laguna Beach Police Chief Jeff Calvert said. “While we take pride in this achievement, our mission to transform into the safest coastal community in Orange County remains our top priority. We are committed to sustaining exceptional policing practices and fostering meaningful community partnerships to realize this goal.”
The beauty of the full blue moon that night can only be described as a magical convergence of nature’s splendor and human connection. When the second full moon occurs within a calendar month, this rare celestial event casts a mesmerizing glow over my secluded beach, illuminating the sand and surf with an ethereal light that seems to transcend time itself. As we laid back on the blanket, the gentle sounds of the ocean lulled me into a state of tranquility, a trance.
The setting was serene and intimate, with the rhythmic crashing of waves and other couples and groups scattered down the beach, simply looking up, taking it in. As if by magic, a perfect ring formed around the moon some ten minutes before midnight. I knew it symbolized a variety of religious and spiritual folklore, but I didn’t know what.
She sat up, poured another cup, took a sip, her arms around her knees, her eyes focused. I thought the rings had to symbolize love or good luck, or if I was really lucky, a connection to the Other World
Donors Turn Out in Support of Clinic’s Managed Care Program
By LB Indy Staff
Friends and supporters of the Laguna Beach Community Clinic gathered on Thursday, April 4, for the Clinic’s annual lunch and live auction.
The event was held at the Montage’s oceanfront banquet room.
Board President John Link and Past President and Governance Committee Chair Roya Cole teamed up to co-host the event, enabling 100% of donor giving to fund managed care for patients with complex medical needs.
Thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Laguna Beach Community Foundation, corporate sponsors and individual donors were inspired to respond to the need by raising an additional net total $134,000.
Jim Fletcher, a Laguna Beach Community Foundation trustee, introduced the fund-a-need portion of the program by stating: “The Clinic is truly part of the fabric of Laguna Beach. As we said during the pandemic, Jorge, we know the Clinic and its history, we trust you, continue the good work”.
“We are honored and privileged to be blessed with such amazing generosity and kindness from our community,” said Cole.
Her sentiments were echoed by John Link, who thanked guests for “their continued support, including sponsors Morgan Stanley, Ponaman Healthcare Consulting, Providence Mission Hospital and CalPrivate Bank.”
Doctor Jorge Rubal, CEO and CMO of the Laguna Beach Community Clinic, introduced
5/15 MR
5/18 VENICE
5/19
a four-minute video featuring the journeys of two patients with life-threatening illnesses who, with the clinic’s care, are today living happy and healthy lives.
“While folks in Laguna Beach, on the whole, are healthier than other parts of the nation, there is much medical data indicating patients with multiple chronic disease are on the rise, especially among those 55 and older. Our patients are living proof that managed care saves lives”.
Guest were treated to an exciting live auction featuring custom menswear packages donated by b.spoke, movie night for four at the Ken Jillson’s private luxury Safari Cinema, a one-week stay in Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, France at the
5/24 DSB (J ourney t ribute )
5/25 IN THE AIR TONIGHT (P hil C ollin S & g ene S i S t ribute )
5/26 BLACKHAWK
5/31 YACHTY BY NATURE
6/1 STEELHEART
6/2 CELEBRATING WHITNEY ( w hitney h ou S ton t ribute )
6/6 HOWIE DAY
6/7 ROBERT JON & The Wreck
6/8 THE ENGLISH BEAT
6/9 GARY HOEY
6/14 AMBROSIA
6/15 CHEST FEVER ( t he b and t ribute )
6/16 ELVIN BISHOP - Big Fun Trio
6/21 DESPERADO ( e agle S t ribute )
6/22 DESPERADO ( e agle S t ribute )
6/23 JUSTIN HAYWARD
6/28 THE BACON BROTHERS
6/29 SKELETON CREW ( g rate F ul d ead t ribute )
7/3 IAN MOORE
7/5 WALTER MICHAELS BAND
7/6 SHINE ON (P ink F loyd t ribute )
7/12 YYNOT ( r u S h t ribute )
7/13 FAST TIMES - t he u ltimate 80 S t ribute !
7/14 THE CREAM OF CLAPTON BAND
feat. Will Johns & Noah East
7/19 THE 5TH DIMENSION
7/20 Y&T
7/26 KEN GARCIA
7/27 BOB SCHNEIDER 7/28 BOBBY GRAY
8/1 CASH’D OUT (J ohnny C a S h t ribute )
8/3 CUBENSIS ( g rate F ul d ead t ribute )
8/10 BEATLES VS STONES
8/17 PIANO MEN: GENERATIONS
8/23 SUPER DIAMOND
8/24 SUPER DIAMOND
8/27 TAB BENOIT & ANDERS OSBORNE with Special Guest JD SIMO
8/29 THE PETTY BREAKERS
8/30 GLENN HUGHES - Deep Purple Set
8/31 MICK ADAMS & THE STONES
9/1 MIDGE URE
9/7 SOUTHERN ROCK THROWDOWN 9/8 An Evening with JOHN LYDON 9/12 GRAHAM BONNET 9/14 JOURNEY USA (J ourney t ribute )
9/15 BENISE: Fiesta!
9/19 THE MAN IN BLACK (J ohnny C a S h t ribute ) 9/22 JANE MONHEIT
9/25 ANA POPOVIC 9/27 DAVE MASON
10/3 ZEBRA 10/5 KIMBERLY PERRY (of The Band Perry) 10/16 JIMMIE VAUGHAN 10/18 GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP 10/20 THE YOUNG DUBLINERS
11/8 COMMON SENSE 11/15 RONSTADT REVIVAL
11/23 RUFUS WAINWRIGHT
11/29 THE PLATTERS 11/30 LEE ROCKER of the Stray Cats
12/15 THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA
From left to right: Stephany Skenderian chats with Barbara and Greg MacGillivray at the Clinic’s annual lunch and live auction. Photo courtesy of Mary Hurlbut
Laguna Beach Community Clinic CEO & CMO Doctor Jorge Rubal with Dr. Lauren Rubal. Photo courtesy of Mary Hurlbut
CARE PROGRAM, PAGE 22
LAM’s Upcoming ‘What’s it Worth’ Event to Focus on Jewelry
Curious antique enthusiasts wait outside Laguna Art Museum to see how much their treasures are worth during last year’s What’s it Worth event.
By Tasmin McGill, Special to the Independent
Curious about that special brooch passed down from grandma?
The Laguna Art Museum (LAM) has teamed up with John Moran Auctioneers & Appraisers once again for “What’s it Worth?” –Jewelry Edition. Experienced and novice collectors alike can
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inside every single atom in the Universe, every atom, all of us all the time.
The beach and waves were bathed in shades of silver and blue, while above the clouds drift lazily across the sky, creating ephemeral shapes and patterns that danced and shifted with the moon’s radiant glow. These transient images seem to tell a story of their own, a silent narrative that unfolded in a story of mystery meant just for us and more: a reminder of the impermanence and timelessness of the natural world.
We didn’t talk much, but our hands slipped together. We watched the
Photo/Jim Collins
bring their fine jewelry, couture jewelry, designer jewelry, Native and Mexican jewelry, and their timepieces to get them appraised by experts this Saturday, April 20.
More than 70 people attended the previous “What’s it Worth?” event held by LAM and John Moran Auctioneers & Appraisers in September 2023.
This year’s event will be split into two parts. The first part is a panel discussion moderated by LAM guest curator and jewelry historian, Timothy Adams.
From 11 a.m. to noon, Adams will lead a conversation between jewelry artist Adam Neely, Tom Burnstein and Maranda Moran.
Neely currently has jewelry displayed in his Modern Alchemy exhibit at LAM until July 23. This fine art jewelry marks the first exhibit Adams has curated for LAM.
“Fine jewelry is usually like art jewelry, which Adam does. Is definitely art that you can wear,” Adams said. “Each piece is unique. It’s one of a kind and it is something that is wonderful to have.”
Burnstein is John Moran’s Jewelry Director, and Moran is the vice president of John Moran Auctioneers & Appraisers and its silver and modern jewelry specialist.
Following the panel discussion, Burnstein and Moran, will be joined by Elizabeth Bray and John Moran President, Jeff Moran, will take part in the valuation portion of
the event. Museum members and non-members alike are encouraged to bring a maximum of five jewelry pieces to be appraised.
Those who attend the jewelry panel discussion will have the first dibs at the appraisers from noon to 1 p.m., while everyone else will be able to have their items assessed from 1 to 5 p.m.
“I’m sure people will bring in all kinds of jewelry,” Adams predicts. “A lot of people have historical pieces or heirlooms from their family, some have just recently purchased pieces and they want to see what the value is of them. That’s probably what we’ll end up seeing –a wide range of things.”
Items that cannot be brought to the museum can be evaluated through printed or digital images. Tickets to the event are on sale at the Laguna Art Museum. Prices will differ depending on the museum membership status. It is encouraged that tickets be purchased in advance at Laguna Art Museum’s website.
Care Program
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clouds slowly pass over the moon’s full brightness and the huge lunar ring. The drifting clouds constantly changed, morphed into horses, faces, and strange creatures only she could decipher.
“See that?” she pointed, and said it seemed like Irish fairytales… something her Irish aunts and uncles conjured and reconjured during her young summer stays in that isolated farmhouse they had, no electricity, candles, lightning storms, and ancient ghosts lingering in the mists.
I don’t believe that nonsense, I told myself. I cannot.
It is all nonsense.
I shivered instead, but not from the cold.
The night seemed to stretch on endlessly as if time itself had slowed down to allow us to savor every precious moment, and I was lost as she spun her Irish myths.
I knew only one thing: I wanted it to go on forever.
Michael co-founded Orange County School of the Arts, The Discovery Cube, Sage Hill School, Art Spaces Irvine and several other area nonprofit organizations. He is a business partner with Sanderson-J. Ray Development and has lived in Laguna Beach since the early 1980s.
16th century stone cottage of Board Member, Janet Chance, MD, Angels baseball platinum suite tickets for eighteen on the exclusive Club Level, compliments of Roya Cole and a two-day driving experience in an Aston Martin, donated by Aston Martin Newport Beach.
“For nearly 55 years, our community has been generously responding to our mission to provide compassionate and excellent care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay; we’re truly grateful”, said Rubal.
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