May 4 with plenty of fancy hats, raffle prizes, plein air demonstrations and 11 open residential gardens to explore.
living.”
The tour is the Laguna Beach Garden Club’s major fundraiser of the year. Proceeds help provide scholarships, local school educational gardens and town beautification projects.
Beard/LB Indy
By Moya Mitchell, Special to the Independent
On a damp, overcast morning last Saturday, five Laguna Beach High School students, Tyler Tafreshi, Mateen and Darian Najafi, Ben Smith and Dutch McClellan, and a Corona del Mar high school student, Rustin
Motakef, joined a decorated young climate activist and inventor to test his proprietary AI-driven sensor network technology. Ryan Honary has developed an emergency detection and response system that relies on remote sensors and AI to
, PAGE 16
LBHS members of the Climate Solutions Society get prepared to place the equipment developed by Honary.
Photo courtesy of Moya Mitchell
By LB Indy Staff
Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate all the incredible women in our lives in all the ways that matter, whether someone is a mom, like a mom, or someone who simply has made a difference in our lives.
As moms, they wear many hats, often finding inspiration in motherhood’s daily challenges and joys. However, for some, motherhood also ignites a creative spark, leading them to express their experiences through art. This intersection of motherhood and artistic expression is beautifully exemplified by Festival of Arts exhibiting artists Echo Baker, Kirsten Whalen and Sharon Williams.
Baker, a long-time Festival artist, found her creative path intertwined with the journey of motherhood. Reflecting on her experiences, Baker unveils how the journey of raising her two boys have enriched her artistic exploration. “With all the challenges motherhood brings, the rewards are far beyond any measures,” she said.
Her canvases bear testimony to the transformative power of maternal love.
Whalen’s artistic odyssey mirrors the
the
“Kelly has represented me both in selling and recently buying a property this year. Her personal impact positively affected every aspect of the transactions. Ethics are at the top of the list for her and her heart and soul is in every detail. I have definitely enjoyed working with Kelly and recommend her highly.”
The Susi Q will continue its popular “Evening with an Author” series on Monday, June 3, this time featuring critically acclaimed award-winning author Michelle Huneven.
Huneven is the author of five novels, most recently Search, which the New York Times Book Review calls “a wicked pleasure” and which was also selected as an NPR Best Book of the Year. Search is described as a sharp and funny novel of a congregational search committee, told as a memoir with recipes.
Huneven will be in conversation with podcaster and arts columnist
Marrie Stone. The program runs from 5:15 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and includes light appetizers, beverages, and book signings. Attendees also receive a copy of the book. Fee is $40. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.
To register, visit www.thesusiq.org.
Susi Q recently chatted with moderator Stone about the upcoming event. She is uniquely qualified for events of this kind. Stone has conducted more than 700 author interviews over 17 years hosting the “Writers on Writing” radio-showturned-podcast, including literary giants such as George Saunders and Elizabeth Strout. She’s also moderated many a literary panel.
“It’s the best job,” Stone said. “And now I often record the podcast from home, in my closet [for sound quality reasons], often in my pajamas. But it’s also lovely to chat in person in front of a live audience of enthusiastic readers at the Susi Q.”
Though not, she added, in her pajamas…
SQ: Why is Michelle Huneven a good choice for the Evening with an Author series?
This season, we focused on bringing authors across genres and
perspectives to represent as much diversity of subject matter as possible. We typically try to bring a bit of fun buoyancy to our summer event, and Michelle proved the perfect fit. She’s funny, she’s a little irreverent, and her writings about food will make people salivate. Even readers who come from an utterly secular background (as I do) will relate to these characters and enjoy Michelle’s humor.
SQ: Do you have a favorite among her novels?
I first interviewed Michelle back in 2009 for her novel BLAME, a book that explored alcoholism and its consequences, as well as moral ambiguity (which I always love talking about).
SQ: Can you share a couple of topics you plan to raise in conversation with her?
We haven’t yet explored the role of the church in modern America, and I think there’s some rich ground to cover in that conversation. Michelle will do that with an accessible, light, and humorous touch. What does faith mean these days? What role does the church play in our
contemporary culture, and how does that role differ between generations? It will also be fun to talk about Michelle’s career as a food critic and how that informed so much of this book.
SQ: This is the fifth Evening with an Author at the Susi Q. They usually sell out. Why do you think they are so popular?
I think people are hungry for live book events, hungry for the opportunity to hear authors in person, and hungry for community. We also make a special effort to bring authors to Laguna Beach that don’t often (or ever) appear here. They are big names for our small pond, and the Susi Q provides such an intimate and informal setting to commune with them.
SQ: Thanks so much, Marrie. See you at the Susi Q on June 3! Huneven’s first two books, Round Rock (Knopf 1997) and Jamesland (Knopf 2003), were both New York Times notable books and also finalists for the LA Times Book Award. Her third, Blame, was a finalist for
Susi Q is the place to be this May
Another free musical morning
On Wednesday, May 15, at 10 a.m., the public is invited to enjoy a unique free musical morning with award-winning violinist Tessa Lark and virtuoso composer/Bassist
Michael Thurber. Together, they create a duo unlike any other. By fusing their classical and American music influences—from Bach bebop to bluegrass—they have created a wholly original sound.
Lark and Thurber have collaborated with some of the world’s leading musicians in a wide variety of genres, including Mitsuko Uchida, Edgar Meyer, Itzhak Perlman and Mark O’Connor (Lark), Yo-Yo Ma, James Taylor, Vulfpeck, Jon Batiste and Cee Lo Green (Thurber).
A Q&A session will follow the concert. Register online at thesusiq.org or call 949-715-8105.
Magical Machu Picchu
Armchair travelers will enjoy Wanda Matjas’s presentation on Mystic Machu Picchu, which will be held on Tuesday, May 21, between 1:30 and 3 p.m. in person and on Zoom.
“Machu Picchu is a trek into history,” Matjas said. “Shrouded by mist
and surrounded by lush vegetation and steep escarpments, the sprawling Inca citadel lives up to every expectation.”
Visit 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.
May is Laguna’s Heritage Month: Schedule of Events
Trolley Tour: The Works of Local Architect Aubrey St. Clair: Saturday, May 11
Celebrate the works of Laguna Beach architect Aubrey St. Clair with a free guided trolley tour. The trolley loads at 306 Third Street (Laguna Beach Water District) at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and departs at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Email clark@collinsone.net or go to historiclaguna.com to sign-up. Space is limited, and confirmation is
required.
Historic Project Forum: Thursday, May 16, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Design, construction and real estate professionals share experiences with historic properties, including Mills Act calculations and a Q&A portion. Find out about the rewarding process of historic preservation. The forum will be held at the City Chambers, 505 Forest Avenue.
Laguna Beach Living History featuring No Square Theatre: Saturday, May 18
Celebrate Heritage Month with the Laguna Beach Historical Society and a special performance by No Square Theatre from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Murphy Smith Bungalow on 278 Ocean Avenue.
Public Tours of the Hortense Miller Garden
Come visit and fall in love with Hortense Miller, her home and garden.
For more information or to schedule a docent-led tour visit hortensemillergarden.org/visit.
The public may call (949) 464-6645 to book a free tour most Saturdays and Thursdays from 9:45 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Crystal Cove Historic District –
This charming, quaint Historic District will take you back in time. For more information, including park hours, activities and parking information, visit crystalcovestatepark.org
Contact Heritage Committee Staff Liaison Heather Steven at (949) 4970332 or hsteven@lagunabeachcity.net for more information.
Laguna Beach Business Club to Host Suzanne Redfern
The Laguna Beach Business Club is hosting award-winning author Suzanne Redfern as its May 16 speaker. The LBBC holds monthly breakfast meetings starting at 7:30 a.m. and hosts speakers who discuss topics valuable to achieving personal and professional success.
Redfern will discuss her latest novel and her pathway from architect to author. She is the bestselling author of six novels.
“In an Instant,” published in 2020, was an Amazon #1 bestseller, a USA Today bestseller, and a Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist. It was named
CRIER, PAGE 15
The Indy, April 17, 2017, Page One, “Study confirms 6.3 million Visitors.” This study was conducted over seven years ago. The study was conducted by “Destination Analysis, Inc.” Conclusions. “96.4% of all visitors come from the United States, and of those 80% are Californians. Only 3.6% of overall visitors are International”. The Study goes on to state, “The new numbers reflect what is evident on any warm sunny day: a day-tripper influx that continues to increase, adding to congestion and complicating logistic issues for city planners. Development growth along State Route 133 corridor and cities such as Irvine, Mission Viejo, and Laguna Woods feed the beach rush”. So, over seven years later, post Covid. No change, however, during Covid, everything was “closed”. Many Orange County residents got in their cars and took a drive. This led to a “rediscovery’ of Laguna Beach. Our current CC majority continues to champion and shepherd the drive for additional “parking” to accommodate this influx of “visitors” to Laguna while “removing” parking for projects like the “promenade.”
Residents of Laguna should be asking our City Council, how many “visitors and residents” can we “safely” evacuate in the event of an emergency? Our current CC majority continues to push for more multi-level parking structures. Residents may have to someday confront the reality of a city from which there is no escape, should a natural or a man-made disaster occur. There are only three ways in and out of our city. Imagine having to evacuate this city on a “warm sunny day!” (Just try to get out of Laguna on any sunny afternoon; forget about a real evacuation.)
The ominous question is how will we evacuate not only the residents, but the visitors and their automobiles should a mass exodus be necessary? Our CC Majority puts forth proposal upon proposal for added parking structures, some proposals that are outright boondoggles, think parking structure on 3rd
CITY HALL MEETINGS:
HOW TO CONTACT
Sue
St. We live here, we need our CC to be thinking about public safety and stop inundating our city by inducing more “visitors” and their cars. Our elected officials’ most important function and obligation is to advance public safety in Laguna Beach. Unfortunately, we have a CC majority that is encouraging more “visitors to drive into Laguna”, when we should be encouraging visitors to use our free trolleys and alternate means of transportation to maneuver in and around Laguna. The day-trippers are going to come. We residents must make our voices heard. Please call on our elected representatives to abandon their “Let’s build another parking structure” agenda and make public safety the predominant concern as opposed to parking revenue.
Claude Morgan, Laguna Beach
The July 4 fireworks event at Main Beach is extremely popular, attracting one of the biggest crowds of the year in the middle of the tourist season. People have always loved fireworks. Especially on the Fourth of July, the day we declared our independence, precipitating an eight-year-long war against
LETTERS, PAGE 18
Do you support undergrounding utility lines on Laguna Canyon Road?
- Yes 76.47% (39 votes)
- No 23.53% (12 votes)
TOTAL VOTES: 51
Do you plan on taking part in any Heritage Month events this May?
- Yes - No
TO VOTE, VISIT THE POLL TAB AT LAGUNABEACHINDY.COM. SUBMIT POLL QUESTIONS TO CLARA@FIREBRANDMEDIAINC.COM.
The LagunaBeachIndy.com poll is conducted using Crowd Signal
May 14 - Budget Workshop from 2 to 4 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, 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92701 714-8343550,
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ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION: Tel: 949 715-4100; Fax: 949 715-4106
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Tiffany Thompson
MAILING ADDRESS: 900 Glenneyre St., Suite B Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Tel: 949-715-4100; Fax: 949 715-4106 www.lbindy.com
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CREATIVE &
MARKETING DIRECTOR
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PRESIDENT OF SALES & MARKETING
Scott Sanchez
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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By Frank Aronoff | LB Indy
BOYS GOLF – League Meet
Laguna competed in their final Sunset event at the Wave League tournament held April 29-30 at Los Serranos Country Club in Chino Hills. Breakers had three golfers make the first day cut of 12 golfers advancing to day 2 with senior Russell Franconi-Krychman 76, sophomore Kiyan Arshadi 80, and junior Luke Bo 81. Final 2-day scores were Russell 12th place at 160, Luke 14th at 165 and Kiyan 15th 167. Marina’s Diesel Roman won the event with a 146.
GIRLS LACROSSE (13-6, 0-5)
Laguna qualified for CIF in D3 and defeated Chadwick (Palos Verdes) 11-4 on May 2 at the Dolphin’s field. On Saturday night, May 4, Laguna fell in an upset loss to Cate 10-4 in a contest at Guyer Field marked by some tough officiating. Breakers completed their seventh season (4th at the varsity level) with their best success ever. Next season will be just
as challenging in the Pacific Coast League.
Ava Knepper finished 8th in the 50 Yard Free (24.05) and 15th in the 100 (52.64) at the SSCIF D-1 finals held at the Mt San Antonio Swim Center on May 3. Santa Margarita won the team title, Breakers were 31st off Ava’s events. In D2 Boys, Laguna finished 38th off the points from Chase Shipp’s diving last week. Shipp will be competing in the state meet on May 9.
Laguna had a number of athletes qualify for the D4 SSCIF Track finals to be held at Moorpark High School on Saturday, May 10. In the preliminaries held at Carpinteria on May 3, Jackson Kollock had the top toss in the shot put with a 48-9 three-fourths toss, while Sydney Sydney had the top times in the girl’s 3200-meter run (11:32.13) and the 1600 meter run (5:14.65). Breakers have won 16 events at the SSCIF finals, beginning with a relay victory in 1948 and last achieved in 2021 by Mateo Bianchi in the D3 1600-meter run.
SUBMISSIONS WELCOME BY 5 PM TUESDAY SPORTS, PAGE 14
Thursday, May 16th, 2024 • 5:30-7:30 pm
Judie Mancuso, political nonprofit leader and Laguna Beach City Council candidate, invites you to join her for drinks, light appetizers and community conversation in the Rose Garden of the Hotel Laguna.
It will be a great opportunity for Laguna residents to mix, mingle and talk local issues in one of our town’s most iconic venues.
Suggested minimum donation: $25 https://www.efundraisingconnections.com/c/JudieMancuso2024/
Includes delicious appetizers and wine or non-alcoholic beverages, and a yard sign!
LOCATION: 425 S. Coast Highway • Laguna Beach, CA 92651
To attend, send email to: rsvp@judiemancuso.com
By Russ GeRBeR
Maybe now is the time to start thinking, or re-thinking, leisure time. Authentic leisure is good for everyone. It’s not just revitalizing; it’s healthy. But to make the most of leisure it helps to widen rather than narrow our concept of the term, which means not only to be free from the demands of routine work (even for just a weekend), but also to
be mentally still and reflective. Leisure is culturally misunderstood, says philosopher Joseph Pieper, who maintains that to receive the full benefit of time away from business and chores requires an ability to let things go, to be calm, and most of all, to be receptive.
In his now-classic essay “Leisure, the basis of culture,” Pieper makes the point that leisure should not be mistaken for idleness – a moral, intellectual or emotional
vacuum. Nor is it merely the absence of frenzied work. “Leisure is the disposition of receptive understanding, contemplative beholding, and immersion -- in the real.”
This reality that Pieper says we’re to immerse ourselves in transcends the stuff of the material world. In fact, it’s that hectic environment that most of us want to escape, if only for a brief period. The key to this higher sense of leisure is the stillness that’s necessary if we’re to prepare for and discern reality.
I wonder if it was a particularly stressful moment in his world that caused the Psalmist to shut out the routine of ancient times, to be contemplative, and then to experience the real as spiritual.
“Be still and know that I am God,” he said, and the comment suggests he reached a higher level of consciousness that someone might attain only in a moment of leisure and enlightenment, as Pieper describes. He received something of great value in that stillness. Jesus characterized prayer time as entering into the closet and shutting the door in order to commune with God. When it comes to feeling better, calmer, freer, and healthier, this kind of leisure may be what we’re missing: contemplative time, stillness, and prayer. Without that, we succumb to a world in bondage to rush, deadlines, anxiety, risk, and fear. Who wouldn’t want to be free from that?
Instead of feeling the need to take a break from reality in the days or weeks ahead, think of it as a time to act on the natural desire to contemplate the nature and harmony of the things of the Spirit - what some say is reality - and freedom to experience the rewarding effect such a state of thought can have on one’s attitude and health.
If the status quo isn’t working, why not experience leisure as a time of activity? Go after the freedom that, deep down inside, we want more of; that’s speaking to us. Set the smartphone aside for a while, walk away from the computer, reschedule the meeting, and do something life-changing.
One way to begin: take a moment to reflect on what that Psalmist caught sight of and wanted to convey, as well as what authentic leisure promises. Ask ourselves: in this moment of receptive understanding, did he experience a departure from reality? Or was his experience noteworthy because he gained a clearer sense of reality?
Russ and his wife moved back home to Southern California after working in Boston as the media manager for the Christian Science church. With a background in publishing, most of his time is spent writing, reading, volunteering and grandparenting.
By LB Indy Staff
The 13th Annual Laguna Bluebelt Photo Contest celebrates attracting top professionals and emerging amateur photographers who capture the magic of our Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The Photo Contest opened on Earth Day April 22, and will run through June 22. Contest prizes will include cash awards for top winners. This year’s contest is dedicated to celebrating the good news and success following ten years of MPA protection to showcase the recovery of sea life and kelp forests in Laguna Beach.
An Artists’ Reception will be hosted by the Laguna College of Art & Design (LCAD) Gallery on Ocean Avenue at 6 p.m. on Aug 1 to coincide with Laguna’s popular Thursday Art Walk. Bluebelt Contest Photography will be displayed at the LCAD Gallery from Aug. 1 through Aug. 18.
“The California Fish & Game Commission’s Decadal Review is an opportunity to showcase the steady recovery of Laguna’s sea life and many ways we enjoy the Laguna Bluebelt’s citywide Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Images captured by photographers give us hope for a better, brighter future with abundant kelp forests and healthy sea life” said Anne Girtz, contest organizer.
Kelp forests store a staggering amount of carbon - about 20 times
more than trees - to temper ocean acidification, a symptom of climate change.
Laguna photographer and Winner in the 2017 and 2021 Bluebelt Photo Contests, Sean Hunter Brown sums up the feelings of many who enter the contest in a recent Laguna Beach Magazine interview. “My love of the
ocean is where my inspiration comes from – not the ocean itself, but the feeling I get from being in it...it is spiritual for me”.
Laguna Bluebelt 2024 Photo Contest Judges are: Julianne Steers (Marine Scientist, Nature Photographer and popular educator), Rich German (Project O, TEDx orga-
nizer and author of “Blue Laguna”), and Kate Vylet (award winning conservation photographer and videographer based in Monterey Bay, California).
To review the exciting previous Annual Bluebelt Photo Contest Winners, visit lagunabluebelt.org
•
•
Thursday, May 2
DUI. Huda Ahmad Almadi, 39, of Newport Beach was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on $10,000 bail.
Reckless driving. Casey Hansen Mullennix, 18, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of reckless driving on the highway. He was held on $500 bail.
Friday, May 3
Domestic violence with serious injury. Devon Christian Charters, 31, of Laguna was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence with serious injury. He was held on $50,000 bail.
DUI. A 43-year-old Irvine man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on $2,500 bail.
Saturday, May 4
Battery on person. Tomas Harry Diaz, 33, of Los Angeles was arrested on suspicion of battery on person. He was held on $500 bail.
Disorderly conduct. Wade Lawrence Scott, 46, of Long Beach was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct due to alcohol.
He was held on $500 bail.
DUI. A 57-year-old Laguna Beach woman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. She was held on $2,500 bail.
Sunday, May 5
DUI. A 22-year-old Laguna Beach man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on $2,500 bail.
DUI. A 24-year-old Upland man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on $2,500 bail. Possession of a large capacity magazine, DUI, possessing ammunition when prohibited. Jason Jamal Jackson, 36, of Gardena, was arrested on suspicion of possessing a large-capacity magazine, drunk driving and blowing on or over 0.08 percent blood alcohol level. He was held on $25,000 bail.
Disorderly conduct. Edward Patrick Schillizzi, 68, of Laguna was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct due to alcohol. He was held on $500 bail. Hit and run, DUI. Santos Cortes
Ramirez, 39, of Mission Viejo was arrested on suspicion of a hit and run causing property damage. He was held on $5,500 bail.
Monday, May 6
DUI. A 29-year-old Eastvale man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on $2,500 bail.
DUI. A 20-year-old Irvine man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on $2,500 bail. Pandering, pimping. Ali Almedagomez, 38, of Stockton was arrested on suspicion of a felony charge of pandering, procuring a person for prostitution and pimping. She was held on $35,000 bail.
Taking a vehicle without consent, conspiracy to commit a crime and possessing a stolen vehicle. Dalila Carbajalquiroz, 20, of Rialto was arrested on suspicion of taking a vehicle without consent, conspiracy to commit a crime and possessing a stolen vehicle. She was held at $40,000 bail.
Taking a vehicle without consent, conspiracy to commit a crime and possessing a stolen vehicle. Marissa
Presale $80 Day of Tour
TOUR: In front of the
SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2023
of the Arts 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach Guided bus rides to each house Refreshments served PARK: $4 all day across from Festival grounds
More information: www.villagelaguna.org 9 949) 472-7503
Virginia Moya, 18, of Moreno was arrested on suspicion of taking a vehicle without consent, conspiracy to commit a crime and possessing a stolen vehicle. She was held at $40,000 bail.
Tuesday, May 7
Possessing burglary tools. Sergio Zavala, 36, of La Puente was arrested on suspicion of possessing burglary tools. He was held on $500 bail.
Wednesday, May 8
Bench warrant. Mahmoud Elmughrabi, 32, of Hacienda was arrested on suspicion of an outstanding bench warrant. He was held without bail.
Possessing a controlled narcotic. Cherish Esther Dietrich, 42, was arrested on suspicion of possessing a controlled narcotic and a controlled substance. She was held on $2,500 bail.
12 noon—5pm. Last bus leaves at 3pm $70 Presale $80 Day of Tour More information: www.villagelaguna.org 9 949) 472-75
call (949) 472-7503 or go to www.villagelaguna.org/charm-house-tour
Enjoy an afternoon in Laguna. Experience a taste of the heritage of Laguna Beach as you tour houses in neighborhoods dating from the early 1900s. Visit cottages and bungalows,
Enjoy an afternoon in Laguna. Experience a taste of the heritage of Laguna Beach as you tour houses in neighborhoods dating from the early 1900s. Visit cottages and bungalows, a working artist’s studio, art in the tradition of the early plein air painters, and houses related to families that formed some of Laguna’s landmarks. See how appreciative owners have adapted this Laguna heritage for
Tickets may be purchased: by sending a request and check to Village Laguna Charm House T Post Office Box 1309 Laguna Beach, CA 92652, or 2.from any of the outlets listed here, or 3. online at www.villagelaguna.org Tickets available at: Cottage Furnishings
384 Forest Ave. 494-2071
Laguna Beach Books 1200 S. Coast Hwy.494-4779 Laguna Nursery 481 N. Coast Hwy. 494-5200
We regret that the tour cannot accommodate children under 12. Uneven surfaces and steps may preclude participation by persons with mobility challenges.
• 6 bathrooms
• 7 garages with rv center
• amazing views
• guest quarters
• WONDERFUL OCEAN, COASTLINE AND WHITEWATER VIEWS
• SPACIOUS SINGLE LEVEL FLOOR PLAN
• prime location & much more
• THREE OVERSIZED BEDROOMS AND TWO BATHS
• SEPARATE GUEST QUARTERS WITH BATH & KITCHEN
• LARGE FORMAL DINING ROOM WITH MAIN BEACH VIEWS
• HARDWOOD FLOORS, VAULTED CEILINGS AND RECESSED LIGHTING
• WONDERFUL GARDENS, DECK, PATIOS, VIEWS AND PRIVACY
• SECLUDED 8,100 SQUARE FOOT PARCEL
include: Remodeling of Laguna Sands Condominiums, New Custom Home: 21542 Ocean Vista Dr, City of Laguna Beach – City Hall North, Public Works, Fire Stations 1, 2, 3, 4, Police Station, Main Beach Life Guard Station, Laguna Beach Unified School District, Laguna Beach County Water District, Department of the
Larry Allison Jr., a 22-year resident of Laguna Beach, passed away peacefully at home with his loving wife, Louise, at his side on April 18, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Larry was a devoted husband, respected and loved psychologist, loyal friend, loving uncle and brother-in-law and lifelong explorer of wisdom.
Born on February 17, 1955, in Los Angeles, Larry was the only child of Patricia and Larry Allison. He grew up in Long Beach and attended St. Bartholomew’s Elementary School and Woodrow Wilson High School. His childhood was filled with adventures that could make a riveting novel about life in Belmont Shore with his boyhood friend Chilt, Grandma Dorothy, Uncle Jack and many dear friends and family.
Larry graduated from Cal State, Long Beach, with a psychology degree and received his master’s and doctorate degrees in clinical psychology from the American University in Washington, D.C.
Larry was creative, musically gifted, a good writer and a compassionate listener - he could have become a musician, a screenplay writer, an author, or an architect (he designed our home), but he chose a career in clinical psychology because of an overriding desire to help others find their gifts and lead meaningful, fulfilling lives. Meanwhile, in his spare time, he could be found playing his 12-string guitar or writing music or screenplays, and he always wanted to create together with his wife.
Larry was always a seeker after higher knowledge. He learned Transcendental Meditation (TM) at a young age with his parents and meditated throughout his life. Enjoying the inspiration of the ancient wisdom of the Vedas, Larry attended an advanced course on Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s translation
and commentary of the Bhagavad Gita at the Washington D.C. TM center and quickly became the teacher’s “pet.” The teacher would become his future wife.
Larry’s career in clinical psychology began with his studies in D.C. and took him to positions at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, to a mid-west regional counseling center in Iowa, to the Claremont Colleges’ Monsour Counseling Center, to a Newport group practice, and, finally, to private practice in Newport Beach. In 2002, the Allisons settled down in the town Larry always loved, and a town that Louise quickly learned to love, Laguna Beach.
Larry loved being in nature, surfing, being adventurous, telling stories and jokes, and was known to roar with laughter from head to toe with his closest friends.
Larry was a deep thinker with a tender, sensitive heart - a man of silence whose words were measured carefully to support and uplift. He always rooted for the underdog and cared deeply about his family and his closest friends. He was a kid at heart and loved to play with his nieces and nephews and take them (or anyone) to Disneyland. As the kids got older, he always took time to sit together, reflect and offer insight.
Above all, Larry was a devoted husband who championed and supported his wife. He felt that her work of teaching Transcendental Meditation was of the highest importance. Everywhere the Allisons lived—from the East Coast to the Midwest to the West Coast— their home became a TM center.
Such was Larry’s patience, flexibility and support of what he felt was a cause of immeasurable value.
Larry’s generosity, kindness, love, laughter and wisdom has left its mark on all he came in contact with. He left the world a better place and will be missed dearly.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his devoted wife, Louise. Larry would be honored by any donations to a charity that promotes World Peace, to Maharishi International University (www.miu.edu), to Mother Theresa’s Missionaries of Charity, (https://missionariesofcharity.org/our-works-of-love.html) or to the charity of your choice.
A memorial service will be held at St. Catherine of Sienna Church in Laguna Beach on Saturday, May 18, at 10:30 a.m.
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the National Book Critics Circle Award and also a finalist for the LA Times Book Award. Her fourth novel, Off Course, was New York Times Editor’s Choice.
Huneven is presently teaching creative writing to undergraduates at UCLA, working on her next novel and writing the occasional article about food.
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.
“Visual
Gallery Q at the Susi Q will present its new show, “Visual Creations” between May 15 and July 10 in collaboration with the Community Art Project (CAP) of Laguna Beach. Mark your calendar: the opening reception is scheduled for Friday, May 17 between 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. It will be open to the public.
“The Visual Creations exhibition allows for a wide range of innovative art forms,” said Judy Baker, Gallery Q’s Arts Coordinator and Susi Q’s Finance Manager. “We’re excited to once again honor the creativity of our artists.”
Gallery Q, located at the Susi Q, 380 Third Street, is dedicated to supporting upcoming and established artists in the community. All media are accepted for their shows, including photography, collage, paintings, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, relief, mosaics, jewelry, textiles, mixed media and digital art.
The public will be able to view the art during normal business hours on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
“Invite your friends and family to the reception on May 17! There’ll be beverages, including wine for a donation, as well as music and appetizers,” Baker said. “Limited free underground parking is available too.”
Artists may sell their work directly to would-be buyers or exhibit work not-for-sale.
The Susi Q Center is located at 380 Third Street.
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Lance Stewart Retires as Breaker Coach
Coach Lance Stewart – the decorated Laguna athlete who returned on three different coaching runs, announced at the recent team banquet that his most recent five-year run is his last. He came back to Breakers in 2020 and guided the program through a very disrupted and challenging COVID period. In 16 season, of boys volleyball (88-90, 2004-11, 2020-24), he had an all-time record of 246-159, seven league titles, one CIF Section title, and three State Regional CIF titles.
Lance attended Laguna as a student from 1977-81, where he earned Orange County, CIF and State Player of the Year honors as the setter for the undefeated Artists in 1981. He also earned league MVP and All-CIF honors as a quarterback in football and All-CIF in basketball. A talented artist, he received his Art degree from Cal. Stewart was also a very successful girls volleyball coach at both Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach, with 11 league titles, four CIF titles, two state titles in 15 seasons. 2024 Laguna Boys Volleyball Team Awards:
VARSITY: Coaches Award: Parker Gapp, Ben Goodwin; Captain’s Award: Kai Patchell; Most Improved: Quinn Halloran Junior Varsity (Coached by Cliff Amsden): Coach’s Award: Truman Smith and Grey Bulloch
Most Improved: Jonah Goldstein, Jacob Bystrom
WINTER AWARDS
Boys’ soccer awards were recently provided to celebrate the squad’s most successful run in the six seasons at the Sunset Conference. Coach Andy Thomas completed his 13th season with Laguna (1997-04, 2020-) with a 119-129-27 overall record. Breakers were 4-2-0 this season in league edged out by Huntington Beach (4-1-1) for the title.
Breakers lost in the SSCIF-D3 second round to Foothill Tech in Ventura.
ALL CIF: Julian Reichel:
All Sunset Wave League: Julian Reichel (Co-Offensive MVP), Dakota Guzman, Max Gardner, Scott Mead, Dylan Petrie-Norris (2nd Team), Jackson Arrasin (2nd Team), Luke Singer (2nd Team)
Team Awards:
Varsity - Scott Mead MVP, Max Garner Offensive MVP, Dakota Guzman Defensive MVP, Scott Mead Best Teammate
JV - MVP John Tavey, Defensive MVP James Schroeder, Offensive MVP Conal Buckley and Tyler
PAGE 15
PAGE 4
Best New Fiction in the Best Book Awards and translated into twenty-five languages.
A former architect, Suzanne lives in Laguna Beach, where she and her husband own two restaurants: Lumberyard and Slice Pizza & Beer. LBBC meetings are hosted at Nirvana Grill + Kitchen, 303 Broadway St., #101, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. Non-members are welcome. The non-member guest fee is $30, payable by Venmo or cash/check payable to the Laguna Beach Business Club on the day of the meeting. For more information about the LBBC or to register to attend the meeting, please visit our website at lagunabeachbusinessclub.com or email Info@LagunaBeachBusinessClub. com.
Laguna Dance Festival Awarded $5K Grant from the FOA Foundation
The Laguna Dance Festival (LDF) wishes to thank the FOA Foundation for its generous grant of $5,000 to support LDF’s educational programming, including its Summer Intensive Workshop. The workshop, which takes place June 17-22 at the Laguna Beach High School Dance Studio, will be taught by well-known dancers and choreographers to advanced students 14 years of age and older.
Among the faculty will be Jodie Gates, LDF Founder and Artistic Director, and architect of the USC
PAGE 14
Tafreshi, Best Teammate Landon Hutcheon
Frosh awards - MVP Alek Saravia, Defensive MVP Jack Pugh, Offensive MVP Sam Wong, Best Teammate Jack Liston
Alumni Note:
USC, coached by Laguna alumnus Dain Blanton ’90 , won the NCAA Beach Volleyball title at Gulf Shores (AL), defeating UCLA. Laguna was also represented by Peri Brennan ‘20 on the UCLA squad, who narrowly lost her pairs match 21-14, 19-21, 1315. USC got to the finals by defeating Cal Poly in the semis. Piper Naess (Laguna ’20), representing the Mustangs, lost in a tough match 17-21, 26-28 to SC’s #4s.
The women’s Water Polo NCAA Finals are May 8-10-11, and the Breakers will be well represented with players from #1 seed UCLA, California and Princeton.
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.
Glorya Kaufman School of Dance, Fiona Lummis, Netherlands Dance Theatre, Jillian Meyers, Ground Grooves and Jim Vincent.
This grant enables LDF to continue fulfilling its mission of providing world-class dance performances and outstanding education to young artists. The Laguna Dance Festival is one of Orange County’s major cultural art events and an important showcase for new and established dance companies and artists.
Please check the website for details and performances: lagunadancefestival.org or call 949-715-5578.
American Legion and VFW to Conduct Memorial Day Ceremony
On Monday, May 27, the Laguna Beach American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars will conduct a Memorial Day ceremony in remembrance of comrades who died protecting our country in wars and conflicts. The ceremony will take place at Monument Point in Heisler Park at 11 a.m. The keynote speaker will be Carla Hogan, a Gold Star Mother. American Gold Star Mothers is a private nonprofit organization of American mothers who lost sons or daughters in service of the United States Armed Forces. Music will begin at 10:30 a.m. The public is invited to come early, as seating is limited.
During the ceremony, many organizations place floral offerings on the Heisler Park Memorial Monument. Please ensure your organization’s name is attached for those who wish to send or bring floral arrangements. Flower deliveries are suggested to be made by 9:30 a.m. Those who intend to send or bring floral arrangements, please call Sandi Werthe at 949-4946016. No glass containers. For more information, contact Richard Moore at (949) 637-4437.
Turning Point USA to Speak at GLBGOP Members’ Meeting
The Greater Laguna Beach GOP Members’ Meeting will host Turning Point USA on Wednesday, May 22 at Mozambique in Laguna Beach. Julia Cartwright is the representative for TPUSA in San Diego, Orange County and Hawaii for all college chapters. Several TPUSA speakers will join her to discuss college life today for conservative students -- and what Turning Point is doing to help them stay strong and speak up. To encourage young conservatives to join the meeting, the GLBGOP will have a $250 cash card drawing for attendees 35 years old and younger. The event will start at 5 p.m. 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 at glbgop.com/upcomingevents.
5/10 TOMMY
5/11 PAT
5/15 MR
5/17
5/18 VENICE
5/19
5/22 THE
5/23 LISSIE
5/24 DSB
5/25 IN
5/26 BLACKHAWK 5/31 YACHTY
6/1 STEELHEART
6/2 CELEBRATING WHITNEY (W hi T ney h ous T
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 ribu T e )
6/16 ELVIN BISHOP - Big Fun Trio
6/21 DESPERADO ( e a G les T ribu T e )
6/22 DESPERADO ( e a G les T ribu T e )
6/23 JUSTIN HAYWARD
6/28 THE BACON BROTHERS
6/29 SKELETON CREW (G raT eful d ead T ribu T e )
7/3 IAN MOORE
7/5 WALTER MICHAELS BAND
7/6 SHINE ON (P ink f loyd T ribu T e )
7/12 YYNOT ( r ush T ribu T e )
7/13 FAST TIMES - T
7/14 THE CREAM OF CLAPTON BAND
feat. Will Johns & Noah East
7/19 THE 5TH DIMENSION
7/20 Y&T
7/25 THE RAT PACK
7/26 KEN GARCIA
7/27 BOB SCHNEIDER
7/28 BOBBY GRAY
8/1 CASH’D OUT (J ohnny C ash T ribu T e )
8/2 Beach Boy AL JARDINE
8/3 CUBENSIS (G raT eful d ead T ribu T e )
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 - 50 T h anniversary of b urn
8/31 MICK ADAMS & THE STONES
9/1 MIDGE URE
9/7 SOUTHERN ROCK THROWDOWN ( l ynyrd s kynyrd , b ad C o ., ZZ T o P T ribu T es )
9/8 An Evening with JOHN LYDON 9/12 GRAHAM BONNET P erformin G r ainbo W , ms G & a l C aT ra ZZ
9/14 JOURNEY USA (J ourney T ribu T e )
9/15 BENISE: Fiesta!
9/19 THE MAN IN BLACK (J ohnny C ash T ribu T e )
9/22 JANE MONHEIT
9/25 ANA POPOVIC
9/27 DAVE MASON
10/3 ZEBRA
10/5 KIMBERLY PERRY (of The Band Perry) 10/10 HENRY KAPONO 10/11 HENRY KAPONO 10/16 JIMMIE VAUGHAN 10/18 GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP
10/20 THE YOUNG DUBLINERS
11/8 COMMON SENSE
11/9 TYRONE WELLS
11/15 RONSTADT REVIVAL
11/16 JOSHUA RADIN & RON POPE
11/23 RUFUS WAINWRIGHT
11/29 THE PLATTERS
11/30 LEE ROCKER of the Stray Cats
12/4 LIVINGSTON TAYLOR and LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III
12/15 THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA -Christmas Show
12/29 L.A. GUNS
1/24 GENE LOVES JEZEBEL / BOW WOW WOW
By susan MCneaL VeLasQuez
Why were you born into the family you were born into, and why don’t you fit into the expectations and roles that you were told would ensure you a happy, fruitful life if only you would placidly go with the program?
Trying to be good, acceptable and right, according to whatever external standards you have bought into, may be blocking you from discovering what you want and how you need to live.
To survive, you may have experienced painful amputations of what was familiar to you. Perhaps you had to leave your family, let go of
marriages you promised under oath would be until death, or jobs that were supposed to be springboards to a better standard of living but, in actuality, numbed your innate creativity and deadened your senses.
Whatever the unnerving choices that brought you to this notion that you are ‘different’ with a negative connotation, we are about to leave behind.
You are different—diverse, distinct, unusual, special, distinguishing, varied.
This is a fact, not a fault. There is no need to try to convince others or waste your energy fighting and resenting the world or specific people who don’t understand you or your needs.
To author your own life to your specifications, you must uncover, discover and own your individual, inquiring, instinctive, passionate core self.
The door to your inner dreams and desires remains locked until you free yourself from using all your energy to appear consistent and to prove you are acceptable. It is time to accept your own individuality. The more visible you become to yourself, the more inconsistent you will probably appear to others. Consistency creates predictability and uniformity. You become safe for others, which is helpful
in meeting your belonging needs, however, it does nothing to enhance your self-esteem and individuality.
When you shatter your stultifying veneer of placid predictability, you give yourself a chance to ignite your passion. You claim your strength and unleash your power to change, flex, perceive and respond. You begin to blossom and be funded by your inner wellspring of moment-to-moment guidance and direction.
When you finally give your loyalty to yourself, you begin the process of becoming soul-centered.
Today is a great day to activate new levels of thriving. Your next task is to identify as many avenues as possible that will help you to nurture, protect, rejuvenate and ignite a new, warm, validating and enriching core identity.
What aspects of yourself do you want to open up to and embrace to further your inner and outer journey? What aspects of yourself do you want to consciously let go of to clear the way for new experiences of the delightful and insightful kind? Who can help you thrive? What creative people, projects and environments can you seek out, open to and explore to further your self-development?
By listening to your inner longings and claiming your birthright to a full partnership with your highest and best self, you can open to a new day and, therefore, a new life filled with the promise of fulfillment and the satisfaction of having your feet solidly planted on your unique path.
Susan has been a local since 1986 and is forever grateful to be a part of this special community. She is the author of Beyond Intellect: Journey into the Wisdom of Your Intuitive Mind. Reach her at: beyondintellect.com.
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identify fire outbreaks and predict spread patterns. The low-cost mesh network is easy to deploy and can be placed in remote locations that are otherwise unmonitored. The Orange County Fire Authority is already working with Honary on a county-level deployment and Laguna Beach is on track to do the same. The first steps in this process began on this cool morning up at Moulton Meadows Park, where the young men took Honary’s direction to test his equipment against the area’s terrain. They worked under his tutelage to place “mini meteorological stations” and sensors across an area of approximately 350 yards and then activate them to ensure their connectivity. The Laguna Beach Fire Department identified this spot as an area that
would benefit from such technology. Afterward, Honary, with the help of the LBHS students and the Laguna Beach Fire Authority will potentially create a fire perimeter extending from Moulton Meadows to the Alta Laguna fire station.
Just a sophomore at Newport Harbor High School, Honary has already proven himself to be a gifted engineer, an accomplished businessman, and a dedicated steward of the planet. His technology stemmed from a science project in 5th grade and was fueled in 2018 by the devastation he witnessed in the Camp Fire, which leveled the Northern California town of Paradise. He hopes to inspire other young people to consider STEM opportunities for their futures. He believes “that environmental engineering will be one of the most important fields of my generation, and my hope is that students will be encouraged to pursue it and have the resources to do so.” The LBHS chapter of Climate Solutions Society, led by student Tyler Tafreshi, is among those inspired by Honary and his mission. The school-based club will look forward to being part of the implementation of Honary’s fire detection technology in the near future.
To learn more about Honary and his numerous accolades and accomplishments, visit ryanhonary.com or connect with him on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook by searching @ RyanHonary.
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enchantment of family life. Drawing inspiration from her role as a mother and now a grandmother, Whalen paints still lifes that teem with imagination and nostalgia.
“My compositions, embellished with maps, books, and figures, strive to narrate tales both real and whimsical,” she explains, encapsulating the captivating essence of childhood wonder.
For Williams, the revelation of motherhood ignited a profound artistic awakening. Through her lens, she captures the ethereal beauty of everyday moments, infusing each frame with the essence of maternal devotion.
“My son is my muse,” Williams affirms, illustrating how the journey of parenthood has sculpted her artistic vision.
The experience of motherhood has been a profound source of inspiration for many artists showcasing their work. Through the works of artists like Baker, Whalen and Williams, the Festival of Arts reverberates with the timeless celebration of creativity, resilience, and the enduring bond between art and motherhood.
By MaRk D. CRantz
May is the month for house and garden tours. No surprise, my house and garden are not participating. To my eye, the house and garden look good enough to participate, but there’s never an invite. Instead, the house, the garden and me look forlorn, as green thumbers walk by with nary a glance.
We shake off the snub and think, well, there’s always next year. But are we kidding ourselves? We live on a corner and get plenty of afternoon sunlight. Lately, my garden has sprung up an open house real estate sign. “Honey, are we having an open house?” My wife answers, “Nobody
told me. But move out if you want. Maybe a real man will move in.”
This doesn’t lift my spirits. I squint harder at the open house sign. Maybe the neighbors have gotten together and voted us out in a closed-session coup. It doesn’t seem that far-fetched. There have been warning signs. The neighbors line up their garbage cans in front of my house on the six days the garbage isn’t being picked up. My neighbors have said to me from time to time, “Crantz, you have the corner lot for garbage cans. Plenty of curb space, nice and flat, and you get good afternoon sunlight to heat up the cans’ last week food aromas.”
Then there have been the hints that the garden isn’t up to snuff. One concerned neighbor decided to give me a garden boost. Late at night, when columnists sleep, he snuck in and planted seeds. Some weeks later, I was surprised not to be able to see the open house sign out my window. A sheer wall of green blocked the view. I went outside for a closer look and to get a whiff of the rotten food garbage smells. Lo and behold, 50 or so sunflower plants were reaching for the sun and obviously happy to be on a corner lot. Now, come on. Let’s wait a second before watering. I’ve always
lived by the garden rule to never have a plant taller than me. It’s unsettling to be the man of the house looking up at a plant. I yelled, “Honey, I think the men of your dreams have arrived.”
Is it possible that a neighbor had set me up for the plant version of the “Bachelorette.” My wife has always liked gardening. Was it a stretch to think my wife would start spending more time with a plant taller, brighter and more happy to talk to than me? No, it wasn’t a stretch. These maneating plants had to go.
I made plans to take control. For several weeks, I watered less, said no to Miracle Grow and encouraged the neighborhood dogs to mark their territories. Slowly, the plants drooped down to size. My wife said, “Wow…I better get out and work the garden. Those plants are looking as bad as you. Give me a hand.”
That wasn’t my plan. I didn’t want to spend more time in the garden. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized it was an opportunity to share a hobby my wife loved. Plus, I could look closer at the neighbors and try to figure out who wanted us out.
It was a pleasant afternoon on that sunny garden lot. My wife got to weeding. I got to pretending to weed.
My wife’s mood improved as she worked the garden. My mood went down in frustration as one neighbor after the next commented on how great the sunflower plants looked. One neighbor pointed at me and asked my wife, “Is he the new gardener? Send him over once you’re done. I have a ton of weeds he can pull.”
It was at that moment of hating photosynthesis that I noticed the garden rock. The rock was new. It wasn’t here last time I rearranged the neighborhood garbage cans from biggest to smallest. I asked my wife, “Where did this rock come from?” She replied, “Wipe away the dirt. You’ll know.” I wiped the rock clean and read “Mork & Mindy’s Garden.”
I knew the neighbor who had done this. He always called us ‘Mork and Mindy,’ after the TV show. I was Mork, the bumbling alien who tries to understand Earth’s culture and then writes badly about it. He was telling us, Nanu! Nanu! (Translation: Goodbye! Goodbye!)
Crantz tells the Indy that he outlasted the sunflowers and hopes to be on next year’s garbage can tour instead.
• ROOFING REPLACEMENTS/REPAIRS
• BALCONY DECK STRUCTURAL RECONSTRUCTION
• ROOFING WATERPROOFING
• EXTENSIVE DRY ROT/TERMITE REPAIRS
• SHEET METAL FOR HARSH COASTAL ENVIRONMENTS
• IN DEPTH SPECIFICATION/STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
• INTERIOR DAMAGE REPAIRS
• BALCONY RAIL SYSTEM DESIGNS/GLASS/CABLE
• PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES
• DOOR & WINDOW REPLACEMENT
• STUCCO/PLASTER RECONSTRUCTION
• RAIN GUTTERS/CHIMNEY CAPS
• SKYLIGHTS/ATTIC VENTING SYSTEMS
On Saturday, April 20th, 2024, the Laguna Art Museum held a special 2-part jewelry event in conjunction with their current jewelry exhibit, Modern Alchemy. The day kicked off with a jewelry panel discussion that included Adam Neeley, the jewelry designer of the exhibit, and the exhibit’s curator, Tim Adams, along with jewelry specialists from John Moran Auctioneers. Both jewelry collectors and jewelry enthusiasts filled the audience and enjoyed learning secrets behind what makes a piece of jewelry truly exceptional, market trends shaping the industry (biggest takeaway: Native American materials have skyrocketed!), and why ‘worn’ jewelry is more coveted (and sometimes even more valuable) than pristine pieces.
Then came the special jewelry edition of their ‘What’s it Worth’ event. Attendees were able to bring up to five pieces of jewelry to have valuated by Moran’s specialists (think ‘Antiques Roadshow’). Fine jewelry, timepieces, and designer jewelry was seen, with many items having precious gemstones, gold, and silver, and
PAGE 6
the vastly superior British military. Ever since, Americans across the country have been celebrating our hard-fought unlikely victory by blowing up rockets on the Fourth of July. Messing with this tradition is non-trivial.
The city council has unanimously chosen an array of 300 programmed drones to replace fireworks. Each drone has a single point light. 300 little dots will be choreographed to make low-resolution “patterns, shapes, and animations.” No big bangs, just a low buzz, with music and narration over loudspeakers.
If it’s foggy or windy, the show will be cancelled.
The Independent has run just one article about the change, barely three months before the event, like it’s no big deal. It “will look a little different.” Seriously? 15 minutes of 300 little dots for $75,000, compared to fireworks for $42,000. Councilman Rounaghi is
ranging from antique to contemporary designs. Standout pieces included unique jewelry from around the world, a beautiful collection of Native American silver jewelry, and a rare 18k coin watch that was machined into a French 100 francs gold coin. Ticket prices included admission to Modern Alchemy and ranged from $1235 depending on which event (or both) guests attended, discounted prices were offered for LAM members. All proceeds benefited the museum.
“I very much enjoyed participating in the panel discussion and What’s it Worth? event with the Laguna Art Museum. I loved meeting some of the museum’s patrons and seeing some fantastic jewelry.” –Tom Burstein, jewelry director at Moran’s.
“It’s always rewarding to work with John Moran Auctioneers and Appraisers to bring the ‘What’s It Worth’ program to Laguna and beyond. In connection with our latest exhibit, Modern Alchemy, this panel discussion was filled with great stories and inspiration and the program was
an opportunity to take a deep dive into our jewelry boxes and celebrate the fine art of jewelry.” –Robin Rundle, Education Coordinator at LAM.
Modern Alchemy explores the creative working process of innovative, award-winning jeweler Adam Neeley, and will be on display until July 29, 2024.
The next “What’s it Worth” event will be happening this fall, so for more information be sure to visit www.lagunaartmuseum.org. John Moran Auctioneers & Appraisers always offers free valuations, go to www.johnmoran.com to learn more.
—Brenda Smith, John Moran Auctioneers
“protecting our environment, veterans, and our wildlife.”
Protecting the environment: Tens of thousands of people will drive here in gas-burning cars. California electricity is still mostly generated by natural gas from dawn to dusk. Almost 100% of all civilian drones are made in China, not famous for environmentalism.
Protecting veterans: I’m an Army veteran (no combat, no PTSD). After two years of watching horrific drone warfare in Ukraine, Israel, and elsewhere, I wonder how many event spectators will imagine a swarm of 300 drones over Laguna in a different context, evoking more angst than happiness.
Protecting wildlife, (plus freaked-out dogs): Virtue signaling. The council has no objection to resuming the fireworks next year.
Google the provider, Sky Elements Drones. They are an advertising business, “From aerial logos to brand
messaging.” Gigantic glowing billboards, extreme visual pollution. Look at their main example, the Paramount logo. It’s 383 little dots. Laguna is only getting 300, so subtract the mountain dots. That’s it. 300 little dots. Woo-Hoo! Celebrate the Fourth of July by posting the flag. Simple and beautiful. Joel Harrison, Laguna Beach
If Memorial Day weekend is warm, West St Beach - south Laguna’s LGBTQ gay international destination will be busy. Whether you come by car, Lagunas free trolleys or OCTA #1 bus — when you go down the West St. stairway and walk north, you will find a new lifeguard tower painted in bright gay rainbow colors and volleyball courts, restrooms, Laguna Beach lifeguards and a huge expanse of sand. Note the signs on accessways warning of west streets shore break with waves crashing down and causing even me to dislocate my
left arm and many other injuries. Green flag days are the best for going in the water, and checking with a lifeguard before going is a good idea. For food, the Lost Pier Cafe on Aliso Beach is a ten-minute walk north, and south Laguna has some good restaurants. The Ranch is a fifteen-minute walk up Aliso Canyon, and it serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks on its patio with a beautiful view of Aliso Canyon. The Ranch also has a hotel, pool, and ninehole golf course, and it’s 1,400 feet from the ocean in what some call Laguna’s little Yosemite. Go north to Wesley Dr., and you will find Treasure Island Park. Across the street in the shopping center, you will find pizza, Asian fusion food, and Mexican and Japanese cuisine. Enjoy West Street Beach in 2024. Roger Carter, Laguna Beach
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