Lagunans Come Together for Memorial Day City
On Monday, May 27, the Laguna Beach American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars hosted a Memorial Day ceremony in remembrance of those who died while serving our country in wars and confl icts. The ceremony took place at Monument Point in Heisler Park at 11 a.m. and featured keynote speaker Carla Hogan, a Gold Star Mother whose son died while fi ghting in Afghanistan. American Gold Star Mothers is a private nonprofi t organization of American mothers who lost sons or daughters in service of the United States Armed Forces. The Laguna Beach Police, Fire, and Marine Safety departments each presented a wreath to honor those who lost their lives. Jon Lundgren provided the music before the service, and Bree Burgess Rosen sang the national anthem. Before the ceremony, the public enjoyed a pancake breakfast hosted by the Laguna Beach Fire Department.
Photo/Jim Collins
Downed Utility Pole Causes Six-Hour Closure of Laguna Canyon Road
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
The Laguna Beach Police and Fire departments responded to the 2600 block of Laguna Canyon Road about an injury traffic collision into a utility pole on May 28 at 4:03 p.m. The utility pole fell into the road and blocked both directions of travel on Laguna Canyon Road.
“It looks like it was a Frontier power line that fell as a result of a traffic collision,” City Manager Dave Kiff told the public during May 28 city council meeting. “The teams from public works to the police departments to Frontier are working to remedy that as soon as possible.”
A second vehicle followed closely behind the collision and ran over the downed utility pole. Both drivers were transported to nearby hospitals for minor injuries. Laguna Canyon Road at El Toro and Canyon Acres was closed in both directions for about six hours while utility companies responded to repair the pole.
Laguna Canyon Road was closed for almost six hours after a Frontier utility pole was hit by a car on the evening of May 28 and blocked both directions.
Council Repeals Ordinance 1675 Amid Public Outcry
By Jackie Connor, Special
to the Independent
In a 3-0 vote, city council members will repeal Ordinance 1675, a contentious piece of legislation that has sparked significant public debate over zoning codes relating to commercial building height, mass, bull and parking. The ordinance changes the zoning codes to exclude lot mergers from exceeding 15,000 square feet within 500 feet of downtown Laguna Beach as well as limiting building height to 36 feet, two primary concerns the public focused on during a Tuesday’s city council meeting. Councilmember Bob Whalen and Mayor Pro Tem Alex Rounaghi cited concerns over Ordinance 1675’s legal conflicts with the California State Housing and recommended repealing the ordinance to include a more comprehensive zoning update.
“We have a highly educated electorate in this town and when I spoke to voters, one of the biggest concerns was the unintended consequence with Measure Q and that when the voters pass something, it can’t be changed…if we were to send this to the voters, we would essentially be asking the voters to reject or approve something that is going to be [a] legal [issue],” said Rounaghi. Adopted in August 2022, Ordinance 1675 aimed to amend the zoning code, including design review criteria such as
Photo/City of Laguna Beach
Laguna’s New Marine Safety Vessel Christened in Newport Beach
Above left: (left to right) Laguna Beach City Councilmember Mark Orgill, Mayor Sue Kempf, Mayor Pro Tem Alex Rounaghi and Councilmember Bob Whalen step inside Wave Watch during last week’s offi cial vessel christening. Above right: Kempf ceremoniously breaks a bottle of champagne on the bow of Wave Watch,
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
Local and state dignitaries and members of the public converged on Marina Park in Newport Beach last Friday, May 24, to watch the christening of the new marine safety vessel, “Wave Watch.”
This 33-foot Crystaliner vessel, designed to improve Laguna Beach Marine Safety emergency response capabilities along the city’s 7.5 miles of beach, was officially dedicated in a ceremony that drew local officials, residents and representatives from state offices.
Crafted by Crystaliner, Wave Watch is engineered to tolerate various ocean conditions, securing efficient and effective rescue operations,
and is equipped with advanced communication systems, including a Lifeguard 800-megahertz radio and a Ship-to-Ship VHF radio, allowing for seamless coordination during emergencies. Wave Watch provides a stable platform for immediate emergency medical care and includes ample storage for life-saving equipment.
Acting Marine Safety Chief Kai Bond opened Friday’s christening ceremony, expressing gratitude for the vessel’s impact on local emergency response.
“Wave Watch enhances our emergency response infrastructure, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of our on-water operations,” Bond said. “This vessel represents a
significant upgrade in our capabilities, and we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on our community’s safety.”
The acquisition of Wave Watch was made possible through the transfer of surplus property from California State Parks Lifeguards, with operational and conversion funding donated by Laguna Beach residents Mark Porterfield and Steve Chadima. This new addition to the Marine Safety fleet will be crewed by a boat operator and a lifeguard, trained to respond to rescues, perform medical aids, and serve as deckhands.
Mayor Sue Kempf underscored the vessel’s value in reinstating Laguna Beach’s Rescue Vessel Program, which
has been dormant since the 1990s.
“Wave Watch bridges a critical seven-and-a-half-mile gap in our offshore response capabilities, ensuring we can provide more efficient and effective emergency operations on the water,” Kempf said. “This vessel is a testament to our commitment to the safety and well-being of our residents and visitors. We are incredibly fortunate to have such strong community support that makes advancements like this possible.”
Mayor Pro Tem Alex Rounaghi, Councilmembers Mark Orgill and Bob Whalen and Newport Beach City Manager Grace Leung were recognized for their support of the project. Representatives from Congresswoman Katie Porter’s Office and Assemblywoman Diane Dixon’s Office were also in attendance, and presented certificates to commemorate the occasion. The ceremony ended with Kempf ceremoniously breaking a bottle of champagne on the bow of Wave Watch, officially christening the vessel as a new beacon of safety for the community.
Wave Watch will begin patrolling the beaches at the start of summer, with the Marine Safety Team ready to deploy its state-of-the-art features to ensure the safety of beachgoers and the community at large.
“Our team has been training diligently, and we are prepared to use Wave Watch to its full potential to keep our waters safe,” Bond said.
Alexander McQueen’s Iconic ‘Angel Shoe’ to be Show Highlight at Pageant of the Masters
By LB Indy Staff
This summer, the Pageant of the Masters steps into the world of fashion with its new production-themed “Á La Mode: The Art of Fashion.”
Anticipated to be one of the most exciting seasons yet, audiences will be swept off their feet with this captivating journey through history’s most iconic fashion trends and spectacles. Among the highlights, is the re-creation of the famed “Angel Shoe” from Alexander McQueen’s groundbreaking 2010 Fall Collection.
High heels transcend mere footwear – they have become
fashion statements, accessories, and sometimes, like the “Angel Shoe” by British designer Alexander McQueen, they evolve into bold pieces of art. This iconic high heel made its debut in the “Angels and Demons” collection that followed McQueen’s death in February 2010.
The shoe features a sculpted resin heel shaped like an angel, complemented by an intricate feather that forms along the sole. Leather wings with silver embroidery gracefully frame the foot, giving a sense of flight.
‘ANGEL SHOE’, PAGE 17
“Angel Shoe,” by Alexander McQueen, currently on exhibit at Victoria and Albert Museum in London, will be re-created in the 2024 Pageant of the Masters production “À La Mode: The Art of Fashion.” Jaron James/ V&A Photography Studio
Ref: Laguna Beach Historical Society &
Mary Hurlbut/City of Laguna Beach
South Laguna Community Garden Park Summer Youth Program
The South Laguna Community Garden Park is offering a Children’s Summer Youth Program each Wednesday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. from the week of June 16 to the week of Aug. 11. The first session will be Wednesday, June 19, beginning at 9:30 a.m. If you’re looking for an opportunity to teach your children general gardening skills, grow their knowledge of our earth, or simply get them active and outdoors, this program would be a great fit. Through weekly meetings, children will be able to interact with each other while participating in fun, garden-related projects.
Local high school student and former SLCGP Children’s Garden member Roya Goldstein will lead the sessions and share her knowledge of the ten-plus years she has spent in the Garden. SLCGP Assistant Director, Carly Sciacca will also be present at the meetings. This program is best suited for children between the ages of five to eight. Parents or guardians will be asked to accompany their child and are welcome to join
Town Crier
IN AND AROUND LAGUNA BEACH
Woman’s Club to Honor Laguna’s Woman of the Year
are $55 for club members and $65 for non-members. The Woman’s Club urges guests to secure seats promptly. This is a sell-out event and seating is limited. RSVPs must be received by June 7 and can be dropped off in the mailbox at the clubhouse or conveniently paid online at wclb.org.
Upcoming Episcopal Church Women Community Fundraising Concerts
The South Laguna Community Garden Park is hosting a Summer Youth Program for five to eight-year-olds this summer. Photo/South Laguna Community Garden Park in the family-friendly activities. Sessions will be held at the South Laguna Community Garden Park, 31610 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, near the lower-level stage. For the nine meetings, there will be a $50 cost to cover supplies and gardening tools. To reserve a spot email Goldstein at lagunayouthgarden@gmail.com.
The Woman’s Club of Laguna Beach will honor Renae Hinchey as its 2024 Woman of the Year at a luncheon on Friday, June 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at its clubhouse, located at 286 St. Ann’s Drive, Laguna Beach. Tickets to the highly anticipated luncheon
A series of community fundraiser concerts and events this summer is planned on the ocean-view terrace behind St. Mary’s at 428 Park Ave. in Laguna. The Episcopal Church Women (ECW) is opening the series on Saturday, June 15 at 5:30 p.m. with keyboardist/vocalist, Jawn Star, who has performed worldwide for audiences including the President and Vice President of the United States, their families and Albert Einstein Jr. who called Jawn Star, “the Musical Genius.” Following that, local favorite Jason Feddy will perform on July 20, then Reggie Christian with Lewis
CRIER, PAGE 16
Response to Doug Vogel’s Letter
You raise good points, Mr. Vogel. Why didn’t the Chamber notify the membership about the political contributions as it properly should have?
I had thought Blake, Whalen and Kempf were close allies with the Chamber in all of the opposition to Q, in the City’s decision to cut back on parking enforcement everywhere except downtown and along PCH as a staff money-saving tactic, and in the sidewalk gift to the restaurants over retailers—not just on Forest but everywhere.
You’re very correct that tourists don’t bring revenue.
Over 60% of our budget comes from property taxes -- not business property taxes or residential property taxes.
And that traffic congestion you write about?
It was the limited ingress and egress that killed 100 people in Lahaina, and it will do the same when we don’t have the funds to underground powerlines in the Canyon.
The City Council must make undergrounding power in the Canyon the only priority of our new city manager until the community is fully informed and committed and there is a plan of action with a timeline and funding committed.
Kiku Terasaki, Laguna Beach
Bring Back Zoom at City Council Meetings
At the May 14 City Council meeting, the city attorney stated that she didn’t think there was any way to have a Zoom meeting that could protect us from being zoomed in and protect free speech. A number of us decided to do some research. We contacted friends who live in nearby cities, and we discovered there is legal protection.
On Aug. 22, 2022, Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill 1100 (S.B. 1100) into law, adding California Government Code section 54957.95.
Under this new section, a presiding member of a legislative body is authorized to remove or cause the removal of individuals who disrupt open meetings. The bill also identifies the types of behaviors that may be characterized as “disrupting” under the statute without fear of legal action. It was also stated that there is no technological method to absolutely guarantee a Zoom bomb call will not happen again. True, however Zoom has built-in tools that can help prevent Zoom bombings from occurring, and they’re all remarkably easy to enable when creating a new meeting. These steps won’t completely eliminate the possibility of Zoom bombing, but they ‘ensure the host has control over who is allowed to participate in their meeting.
Many neighboring cities allow Zoom public comments; Los Angeles, Irvine, Costa Mesa and San Juan Capistrano are just a few. Most have adopted a new process. Residents are asked to fill out a speaker card and submit it before the meeting. Only residents who have returned a speaker
LETTERS, PAGE 16
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The Village of Laguna Beach
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Meander up the pathway to this enchanting 1933 home that was beautifully restored by Andra Miller with exquisite attention to detail while retaining its original character. Ideally situated on El Bosque in the heart of the Village of Laguna Beach. Web# LG23147319
By Billy Fried
Let’s Dispense with the Moratorium on Dispensaries
Though we’ve long fancied ourselves a progressive and tolerant community, there can be no stronger evidence to the contrary than our spurious ban on cannabis dispensaries. How can our city government be so tone-deaf to the will of their constituents, who had the highest percentage of pro votes in
the County on the legalization of both medical marijuana (Proposition 215 in 1996) and recreational (Proposition 64 in 2016)? It’s been nearly 30 years of residents saying yes and the City answering no.
We’ve long prided ourselves on being gay-friendly. We offer free
healthcare to those in need, have a senior center for our elderly, and are trying to address affordable housing. So, how about being pot-friendly?
According to a recent study reported by the LA Times, more Americans now consume marijuana on a daily basis than drink alcohol. The only states where cannabis is totally illegal are Idaho, Kansas, South Carolina and Wyoming. Earlier this month, President Biden announced plans to reclassify pot as a less dangerous drug. And now, California is floating the “Munchie Bill” to make consumption and food service legal in dispensaries.
For those keeping score at home: Laguna’s licensed alcohol establishments – 100. Pot dispensaries, 0. How the hell is that representational government?
Why has our leadership denied us the freedom to access a legal product in our hometown? One that has proven effective for a variety of medical uses. And has proven benign recreationally (of course, like everything, it can be abused). But rather than do the sensible thing and develop a strategy to limit kids’ access to illegal drugs –including education at home and in school – we instead use kids as the cudgel against making a legal and highly regulated product available. Don’t forget, it’s the unregulated stuff that can kill you.
And that other lame and elitist nonsense about it bringing unwanted traffic and a bunch of drug-addled hooligans? It’s all cover for the hypocrisy that people who enjoy alcohol as their drug of choice discriminate against stoners. Yep, I said it. Because I know of no domestic violence cases from the throes of a bong rip. The most adverse effect might be eating too many smash burgers at AHBA.
And how about the cruelty of sending our retirees all the way to Santa Ana to score their meds? What a wasteful burn of fossil fuels - and time.
Why Santa Ana? Well, In 2018, Santa Ana officials did the sensible thing and asked residents if they wanted commercial cannabis sales in town? Voters answered “Yes,” and now City Hall licenses, regulates, and taxes the legal cannabis shops operating in the city. And it’s been a boon, with little to no downside, except keeping them open as legal retailers overcome pernicious taxation that makes black market cannabis way less expensive. What have the impacts been? According to The Voice of OC, “No less than 50% of the cannabis tax fund goes to youth services every year. And cannabis is closing spending gaps on long-neglected services like libraries and youth programs. In 2022 the tax
By LB Indy Staff
One of Southern California’s most beloved summer attractions, the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show, returns July 3 to Aug. 30. Set in the vibrant arts destination of Laguna Beach, this annual event continues to captivate and inspire audiences with a stunning showcase of creativity and talent from local artists. In addition to the artwork on display, guests can enjoy daily live entertainment, art classes, special events, and more. The Festival of Arts is sponsored in part by Volvo Cars, City of Hope Orange County, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, and KOST Radio 103.
Taking center stage at the Festival of Arts are the 120 exhibiting artists, showcasing their talents at the fine art show during its two-month summer season. This professionally juried art exhibit features a diverse selection of artwork, including paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and more, all crafted by artists from across Orange County. Since its inception in 1932, the Festival has served as a platform for thousands of artists to showcase and sell their creations, with many pieces finding their way into the private collections of esteemed art collectors, celebrities, and museums worldwide.
Festival attendees will also have the opportunity to engage directly with the artists, gaining insight into their
FOA, PAGE 17
Sports/Schools
SUBMISSIONS WELCOME BY 5 PM TUESDAY
Juniors Claim Powder Puff Flag Football Title
The highly anticipated Laguna Beach girls’ powder puff fl ag football game took place last Friday, May 17, at Guyer Field. The juniors emerged victorious in a nail-biting performance against a solid senior squad. Quarterback Presley Jones led the juniors on offense, with Siena Jumani and Morgan Saunders each having clutch interceptions to boost the juniors to victory. Breakers football quarterback Jackson Kollock took the reigns as the powder puff coach.
Photo/David Jumani
LBHS Student-athletes Sign Letters of Intent, Commit to Collegiate Athletics
Laguna Beach High School student-athletes offi cially committed to NCAA Div I or II teams during spring signing day on May 29. Photos/LBUSD
By LB Indy Staff
Six Laguna Beach High School (LBHS) student-athletes participated in spring signing day on Wednesday afternoon, May 29 officially committing to an NCAA Division I or Division II school that has offered them a scholarship to play for a sports team.
The following students took part in a ceremonial signing, attended by their peers, family, and school staff, symbolizing the conclusion of the recruitment process and their commitment to playing their sport in college:
Anoua Carrie, Track, Rensselaer Polytechnic University
Jaxson Hutcheon, Soccer, Loyola Marymount University
Yolo Javier, Track and Cross Country, San Francisco University
Sarah Johnson, Volleyball, University of Nevada
Noah Neufeld, Baseball, Colorado Mesa University
Sydney Sydney, Track and Cross Country, Vanguard University
“Our student-athletes thrive on
a mix of athletic talent, academic dedication, and personal growth to excel both on the field and in their studies. On signing day, we invite our athletes to pause and reflect on their unique journeys and to extend their heartfelt thanks to those who have supported them—especially their families and coaches,” said LBUSD Athletic Administrator Denise Selbe.
“At our district, we take great pride in ensuring every student has a caring adult they can count on. This support and encouragement are vital in nurturing the discipline and work ethic our young athletes need to succeed in college athletics and beyond.”
The National Letter of Intent is a binding agreement between a prospective student-athlete and an NLI member institution. The NLI program started in 1964 with seven conferences and eight independent institutions and now includes 652 Division I and Division II participating institutions.
“LBHS student-athletes represent the spirit and values of our greater school community, showcasing their
Pitcher of the year, freshman Branson Wade. Photo/LBHS Athletics
Varsity Team Awards
Offensive player of the year. Noah Neufeld (Sr)
Defensive player of the year. Ben Dawson (Sr)
Coaches award. - Becker Sybirski (Jr)
Pitcher of the year - Branson Wade (Fr)
Frosh Soph
Offensive player of the year. Bear Ward (So)
Defensive player of the year. Grant Watson (So)
Coaches award. - Bryce Strothers (So)
Pitcher of the year - Gabe Paz (So)
BOYS GOLF
Varsity Team Awards
Team Captains - Russell FranconiKrychman (Sr), Chase Tyson (Sr), Ranen Seeck (Sr)
Most Improved - Hudson Mills (So)
Co-MVP’s - Kiyan Arshadi (Soph), Joshua Bellisime (Fr)
JV Team Awards (League Champions)
Most Improved - Teddy Hackett (So) MVP - Noah Kimball (Fr)
GIRLS LACROSSE & SWIMMING/ DIVING
Next week.
TRACK & FIELD
All-CIF- D-IV: Jackson Kollock (Jr), Sydney Sydney (Sr)
All-SUNSET WAVE LEAGUE: Jackson Kollock (Jr)
talents and discipline not only in classrooms but also across courts and fields,” said LBHS Principal Jason Allemann. “Their dedication and hard work are a testament to the strength and character they bring to our school. Congratulations to our athletes and their families on their remarkable accomplishments and the exciting opportunities ahead.”
More than 48,000 prospective student-athletes sign NLIs to attend NCAA Division I or II institutions each year.
By Frank Aronoff | LB Indy
SPRING SPORT HONORS
BASEBALL
All-SUNSET WAVE LEAGUE:
Pitcher of the Year – Branson Wade (Fr)
2nd Team:
Lucien Reed (Jr)
Ben Dawson (Sr)
Dane Jenal (Jr)
Becker Sybirski (Jr)
Noah Neufield (Sr)
Boys Team Awards:
Sprints MVP - Julien Di Palma Davis (Sr)
Field Events MVP - Jackson Kollock (Jr)
Distance MVP - Theo Drews (Sr)
Coaches Award - Noah Volpe (Sr)
Coaches Award - Jack Hurst (Fr)
Eric Hulst Award - Mack CraneHenning (Sr)
Girls Team Awards
Sprints MVP - Kingsley Wade (Fr)
Field Events MVP - Eva Wittkop (So)
Distance MVP - Sydney Sydney (Sr)
Coaches Award - Yolo Javier (Sr)
Eric Hulst Award - Hayden Joseph (So)
BOYS VOLLEYBALL
All-SUNSET WAVE LEAGUE:
1st Team: Kai Patchell (Jr)
2nd Team: Laird Garcia (Sr)
Team Awards were published earlier this season
Have a note/question on Laguna sports/ correction/update? E-mail Frank at Frank@twometer.net. Looking for the 2023-24 high school schedules and scores? Check Laguna Beach High School on the Max Preps website.
Street Beat
EXCERPTS FROM POLICE LOGS
Thursday, May 23
Failure to register as an arsonist. Alexis Ariel Garbieh, 63, of Newport Beach, was arrested on suspicion of failing to register as an arsonist. She was held on $500 bail.
Bench warrant. Armando Luquin Gerardo, 42, of Garden Grove was arrested on suspicion of an outstanding bench warrant. He was held without bail.
Friday, May 24
No arrests reported.
Saturday, May 25
No arrests reported.
Sunday, May 26
Bench warrant. David Scott Raines, 57, of Beaumont was arrested on suspicion of an outstanding bench warrant. He was held without bail.
DUI. Daniel Ryan Stamegna, 28, of Irvine was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and blowing on or over 0.08 percent blood alcohol level. He was held on $20,000 bail.
Failure to provide prints, etc., battery, obstruction, giving false identification. Ryan Chavez, 35, was arrested on suspicion of failing to provide prints, blood and/or a saliva sample, battery on a peace officer, obstructing a peace officer and giving false identification to a specific peace officer. He was held on $20,000 bail.
Monday, May 27
Kidnapping, rape. Jonathan Elenilson Martinez, 47, of Newport Beach was arrested on suspicion of felony kidnapping and rape by force/ fear/etc. He was held on $200,000 bail.
DUI. Tyler Richard Moran, 22, of San Juan Capistrano was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on $2,500 bail.
Trespassing. Glenn Edward Mendiaz, 54, of Laguna Beach was
GUEST OPINION: PET PEEVES
Teenagers
By MArK d. CrANTZ
arrested on suspicion of trespassing and under the influence of a controlled substance. He was held without bail.
Domestic violence. Mark Albert Elmendorf, 66, of Laguna Niguel was arrested on suspicion of domestic violence with serious injury. He was held on $50,000 bail.
Tuesday, May 28
Domestic violence. Luis Garcia, 25, was arrested on suspicion of possible willful cruelty to a child and domestic violence with minor injury. He was held on $50,000 bail.
Wednesday, May 29
Bench warrant. Darius Devon Franges, 32, of Irvine was arrested on suspicion of a felony bench warrant and being in possession of a stun gun as a felon. He was held without bail.
DUI, failing to provide blood or saliva, and taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent. Kenneth Alexander Price, 36, of Bullhead, Ariz., was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs, failing to provide blood or saliva and taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent. He was held without bail.
Battery. Noah Alexander Zoller, 19, was arrested on suspicion of felony assault with a deadly weapon that’s not a firearm and battery with serious bodily injury. He was held on $25,000 bail.
Teenagers? If you are a parent of a teenager who graduated this year, I want you to know that you should be the one walking across the stage in cap and gown receiving a certificate of survival. Congratulations, parents. My kids have outgrown their teenage years and now have teenagers of their own. I had lunch with one recently. “What’s new at school?” I asked. “”Nuthin’.” “What’s going on with your social life?” “Nuthin’.” “What do you think of me?” “Nuthin’.”
I enjoyed lunch in spite of the lively repartee. It made me think back to my teenage years. “Nuthin’ happened.” I remember hanging out at McDonald’s drinking vanilla cokes. Like teenagers today, I was bored, too. Boredom and ennui, which is french for cool boredom, were always the enemy of kids with bodies full of energy and just revving up to find an outlet. How this energy gets released is the challenge of parents and teachers everywhere through time.
Miraculously, most teenagers find their way to securing a degree. Mentored by educators, family and friends, teenagers find their footing and release their energy towards positive things. I’m always nice to teenagers because I know these are tomorrow’s politicians, who hold my social security in their hands. “Excuse me teenage person, may I help you cross the street?” “Go away you old prune.” Oh well, trying to relate is what counts.
Everybody these days has a history month. There is Black History Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, among others. A recent social movement of young people has requested establishing a “Teenage History Month.” Suggested ambassadors would be Steve Urkel (Family Matters), Doogie Howser, MD, Kevin Arnold (The Wonder Years) and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Graduation day would be the month’s culmination to salute their efforts to turning out good. As an example, I had a freshman
college roommate, who spent every Sunday morning visiting with seniors at the nursing home. At the time, I was usually too hungover to appreciate what a wonderful thing he was doing. I recently texted him. He texted back, “Are you still hungover?” Oh well, trying to relate is what counts.
You know parents you are not alone. There are teenagers in the animal kingdom, too. Next time you go to the beach, scan the horizon for killer whales attacking boats. They knock their heads into the rudders and do considerable damage, even sinking many boats in the process. Recently, scientists held a conference to discuss this new and harrowing phenomenon. All scientists flew in by air. Nobody boated to the gathering.
Some scientists believe that a boating accident where a baby whale was killed in front of its mother was the triggering event. Now the killer whales want revenge and are extracting it. After formal discussions, scientists discounted this theory because the evidence showed the damage was being done by teenage whales. Adult whales were not involved in the destruction. At the end of the conference, the scientists revealed that teenage killer whales were merely bored and full of french ennui. They have just been looking for fun. Captured footage shows the teenagers knocking off the rudders and then putting dead fish, like a French beret, on their heads in a sign of rollicking fun. The parent killer whales couldn’t find it in themselves to reprimand the teenage pranksters. Instead, they joined in and started wearing dead fish hats, too.
So, in support of all graduating teenagers, parents and educators, I will be wearing a dead fish hat rakishly cocked in the face of life’s ennui.
Crantz tells the Indy, readers wishing to join in and wear dead fish hats, should change the dead fish hats daily. And be on the lookout for hungry cats, who support Teenage History Month.
GUEST OPINION: MUSINGS ON THE COAST
The Sweet Smell of a Newborn
By MiCHAel
My daughter Gabby had just birthed my first grandchild, Oliver Grady Norquest, 8 pounds, 14 ounces, and was the epitome of the superprotective new mother. She and her husband, Mike, live in Highland Park, near Pasadena, and Oliver was a week late, so they decided to induce her. The hospital is in Glendale, and it has no waiting room—weird but true—so you wait in the lobby of a nearby hotel. Gabby told me not to come. She was worried that I would be worried, and she did not want to worry about me being worried. I told
her I would wait patiently, but Gabby said no, do not wait. She did not want anyone to wait, worry, or hang around.
Ok, I thought, the baby is hers and she can do what she wants, and will, just like her mother Teddie and Teddie’s mother, Pat Toon, control freaks all---all three of ‘em---shall I say, Alpha Women who do not abide any nonsense like maybe granddad might want a say.
So, I had to wait three days until Oliver Grady Norquest got home, then I was told I could visit, but only if I was fully vaccinated and wearing a mask. Ok, fine with me; I did it all and Gabby tentatively held Oliver out to me, a precious and very breakable package, and I carefully cradled his head and then the rest of his squirming-baby body. But, as I stated, it was only for the briefest of moments and there were other people there. Not intimate, I thought, Gabby and Mike were parading the relatives through one at a time and were exhausted and just wanted to get it over. She might as well have worn a sign, “leave us alone,” and so I gave her and Mike and Oliver my
love and quickly left. There would be another, better, time.
And there was, when Oliver was one month old. It was last Friday; Mike was working, no one else was around and I drove up midday.
This time Gabby opened the front door of her home, and it was different, quiet, peaceful, and more: that sweet, sweet odor of a new baby. It was unmistakable and it permeated their home, tiny as it is, and I could see Gabby had gotten into it. The living room is dominated by a huge, deep couch and Mommy & Baby had turned it into a that chaotic space new babies and parents make for themselves, the dishes forgotten over there somewhere, but not to worry, not today and not tomorrow---they would be gotten to.
Gabby immediately handed me Oliver and I placed him lengthways on my legs, my hand cradling his head. He burped, hiccupped, smiled (yeah, that WAS a smile), then plunk—just like that---he fell asleep.
“Put him on your chest,” she said. That was a surprise. “Don’t worry, he’ll stay asleep.”
I laid him there, then I leaned all the way back, deep into the couch, my
legs dangling, my body almost parallel to the ground (I thought, no wonder she and Mike love that couch), and I fell into a lethargic stupor, my eyes closed, quickly almost asleep myself, when slowly an absolute sparkling joy overtook me.
“Gabby, I almost feel like endorphins were released when I put him on my chest.”
“Dad, they were. I looked it up; putting an infant on your chest does that.”
I smiled. Of course they were, and that was as far as I got trying to analyze why or what for. It. Simply. Was.
Joy. Absolute, total, complete joy. Right then, right there. My daughter. My grandson. The chaos. The smell. The perfume of the family. It is why we live.
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.
Join us for Art Start with wine and hors'oeuvres from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Hotel Laguna. Featured artists Jill Cooper and Wendy Wirth will be in attendance. Laguna Dance Festival will have an enticing artistic performance at 7:00. Come hear the scintillating sounds of saxophonist Jake Brown. Enjoy the rest of the evening at Art Walk from 6 pm to 9 pm.
Thursday, June 6th at 5:00 PM 425 South Coast Highway Laguna Beach
Cynthia “Cyndy” Starr Hunter Hutchinson
Cynthia “Cyndy” Starr Hunter Hutchinson, 64, passed away on April 16 2015 in the comfort of her home in San Clemente, Calif., with her daughter. She left this world peacefully after a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Cyndy was born in Rochester, Minnesota on April 18th 1954, the second oldest in a robust family of four to Margaret May Stoner and Dr. James Stanley Hunter. Her childhood was filled with shenanigans, horse riding, road trips and endless adventures with her beloved siblings Leslie Anne Windyka, James (Jimmy) Stanely Hunter the 3rd, Lauren Patrice Hunter, her many cousins and Dalmatian Tammy.
Cyndy went to Manhattan High School in Kansas where she excelled as a swimmer on the Manhattan Marlins, was a cheerleader, talented dancer, horse lover and a proud Girl Scout. She followed her oldest sister to Colorado State University where she majored in foreign language (Both Spanish and German) and was in
OBITUARY
the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She took a semester abroad in Mexico City solidifying her fluency in the Spanish language and her love for foreign travel.
Post college she won the title of Miss Colorado, competing in the 1974 Miss America Pageant in Atlantic City. She would make headlines in the newspapers over her cutoff jean shorts worn to the beach while dancing in the salty waves. (Quite shocking for a conservative pageant!) While bartending in Denver, she met her future husband Edson Hutchinson with whom she would cherish years full of ski trips, world travels, real estate acquisitions, a thriving carousel business, and costume parties galore with their eccentric group of Denver friends. She boasted a successful career as a real estate salesperson which she started after ditching teaching “ungrateful brats” high school Spanish.
By far her greatest joy was being the mother of her two daughters, Kelly and Dana. She put her heart and soul
Joseph Brian Browne
sense of humor, he was loved and will be missed by family and friends. From a very young age, Joseph’s passion for learning and the world beyond his own motivated his love of travel and reading. He was a talented photographer. He graduated from New York University where he studied History and Government with a concentration in Luso-Brazilian studies. Widely traveled, he spent time in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Peru, Chile, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Sri Lanka, and India. He lived and worked in the Rajasthani desert of Northern India as a Peach Corps volunteer for more than two years setting up cooperative stores for
catch a well-deserved wave on her longboard at Tonggs, or as she sailed by on skis; truly a dancer on snow.
into raising her girls and giving them the gift of unconditional love.
She spent the last three years of her life in Laguna Beach where she mothered her children, enjoyed beach walks with her twin soul/pet dog Pinky, watched volleyball matches of daughter Dana, and relished in many close friendships with incredible women. She spent many seasons in Beaver Creek, Colo., where she helped build and design spectacular Swiss chalets with her husband, enjoyed buffets at the Sonnenalp, and taught her girls to ski as beautifully as she did. She visited Honolulu, Hawaii often to be with her Hawaiian family in law which included Irene, Ira, Darlene, Uncle Edson and a myriad of Tutus, aunties and cousins. Tutu Irene lovingly named her Hokulani, Heavenly Star. As a family, she loved beach days at the Outrigger Canoe Club, guava juice mornings on the patio at the Tahitienne, sunset dinners at the Hau Terrace, and trips to Kikila with beloved family friends. Her excited “Yahooo!” echoes in our memories from when she would
the local communities under conditions of intolerable heat and lack of modern amenities. He went on to a successful career in merchandising for Bloomingdales in its heyday in New York and later J.W. Robinsons in California before getting into his own business. He was well respected in the retail business and was able to spot trends early, with a keen eye for detail. When he wasn’t working, he was often reading. He was fascinated by the concept of harvest and was a wine connoisseur who understood the value of California wines long before it became fashionable.
Ready for a bright, beautiful and unusual future every day, he was also a major fan of more ordinary tastes
Cyndy lived for new experiences, positivity, and touched many people’s lives with her compassion and dedication to everything she did. She was a living example of a strong woman to her daughters. She loved a weekly steak with a blue cheese chopped salad, a night out dancing, listening to music while doing her morning ballet stretches in the kitchen, beach barbecues in Emerald Bay, summer hikes in wildflower-covered slopes of the Vail Valley, cooking family dinners with her famous soup recipes, traveling through small European mountain towns, talking with strangers, Thanksgiving dinners in San Diego with her sister Lauren and her boys, making banana bread, sipping on Kona coffee, Arizona trips to see her parents and wearing plush bathrobes that she would buy for all the women in her family so they could match.
Cyndy waltzed through life with a smile on her face and laughter in her heart. She stopped to smell the roses. Life to her was about all the little things that made the world beautiful.
She will be missed forever. Cyndy is survived by her daughters, Kelly (Catalina) and Dana (Mike), ex-husband Edson Hutchinson, boyfriend Randy, sisters Lauren Hunter (Chuck) and Leslie Windyka, sister-in-law Darlene Hutchinson and Brenda Hunter, her niece Breanna, nephews Will, Jim, Little Jimmy, Michael, and Mark. She was hilarious.
like cherry pie and vanilla ice cream. He could disarm you with a smile and make you laugh with a quip. He liked to help people and was a great gift-giver, finding something that would surprise or please the recipient. Most of all Joseph paid attention. He listened and observed.
He leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Alice Browne, and daughters Sharmaine and Tamara, as well as his twin brother, Peter, and sister Geraldine. He was preceded in death by his younger brother, Dennis, and his parents, Joseph and Henrietta Browne. Joseph will be dearly missed.
A Remembrance will be held on Monday, June 3 at 5:30 p.m. at The Shoe Cellar, 245 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach.
Joseph Brian Browne, known fondly as “Joe” to many locals and as owner of The Shoe Cellar for the past 30 years in Laguna Beach, California, passed away on May 8, 2024. Known for his kindness and warmth, curiosity, deep knowledge of history, photographic memory, and
PAID ANNOUNCEMENT
money funded the $884,000 upgrade of Santa Ana’s main public library, now featuring a children’s patio with a play structure and outdoor reading areas.”
That’s ironic, as we just held a public Facilities Master Plan that focused on how to upgrade our long-neglected library. Our fiscal watchdogs, who rail against any excess spending, are the same ones in opposition to a dispensary that, in practice, has transformed libraries at no additional expense to residents.
Meantime, other OC cities have caught on to demand - and the financial boon it generates - and have legalized retail sales, like Costa Mesa, Stanton and now little Laguna Woods. Yep, those dainty seniors just want to take the edge off of growing older. Their cannabis club was so popular and successful the town decided to approve a dispensary called “The Artist Tree,” which doubles as an art gallery. It’s opening today and is located at 24902 Moulton Parkway.
But in our “progressive” little hamlet, we have to buy on the black market or welcome strangers delivering into our homes. We regulated against it not once, but twice. First, through a council vote, and then by rigging a ballot measure, intentionally offering voters a very flawed option created
by an unsavory outsider looking to make a fast buck. When the right move would have been to provide a thoroughly city and safety vetted best practices alternative.
Dispensaries are no different from wine shops, camera or music stores – except the heavy security and ID requirements. You go there for the education, discovery and expert guidance. Cannabis is in its infancy and is ever-evolving in its composition and use. People need education and advice. And does anyone really believe that dangerous people will lurk in the shadows? What do you think this is, a liquor store?
It’s high time Laguna got in step with the times and reintroduced a sensible path forward to open a dispensary or two. Put them at the far edges of town so traffic doesn’t cycle in. Add a cold plunge, infrared sauna, or massage and make it a true gateway to wellness. Or go with a munchie bar and make it a true gateway to gluttony.
Billy is the Chief Experience Officer of adventure sports company La Vida Laguna, and Executive Director of KXFM, Laguna’s Community Radio. He can be reached at billy@lavidalaguna. com.
card in person or online are allowed to speak via Zoom about an item or public comment.
If our city adopts the new technology and participation processes, Laguna Beach need not fear legal action. We can join the dozens of cities in California that allow residents to comment safely via Zoom.
The new participation process will go a long way toward protecting the city! If the council directs staff to use these protective measures, residents can once again participate in all meetings on Zoom.
Anne Caenn, President, Village Laguna
New Trash Service to Benefit Tax Payers?
I received in the mail today a beautiful five color flyer from our new trash service. I registered my information for billing and tried to connect to the QR site to find out our quarter costs. I was unable to connect so I called the dedicated number for assistance. After pushing many numbers, I got through to a live individual. After explaining that I was from Laguna Beach and interested in my costs, I was quoted about $80 per container depending on the size of the containers. The difference between small and large was minimal. I read in our local print and online services that the city would save one million dollars on the new contract. I did not know that I would be billed quarterly. I hope the savings are going to the taxpayers and not new money for the city to use for its additional 60-plus new full-time positions.
Jim Kelly, Laguna Beach
17 through Aug. 2 in Saddleback Valley.
With a steadfast commitment to nurturing every child’s inherent strengths, the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach offers a dynamic array of activities tailored to foster personal growth, social development, and a passion for lifelong learning at two convenient locations in Laguna Beach.
Participants will engage in exciting field trips that expand their horizons and ignite curiosity. Basketball showdowns promote teamwork, sportsmanship and healthy competition. Unforgettable adventures where friendships are forged and memories are made.
Additionally, specialty camps at Canyon Branch, such as Basketball Camp, Art Camp, Destination Innovation Science Camp, Skate Camp, and Action-Packed Adventure Camp (APAC) offer exciting opportunities for children to explore their interests and talents. Action-Packed Adventure Camp (APAC) is a unique program featuring hikes, rock climbing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and an overnight camping trip at the Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center.
For more information visit bgclagunabeach.org or call (949)494-2535 to reserve a place.
Circus Bella presents its 15th Annual Circus in the Parks Season
On Sat., June 8, San Francisco-based Circus Bella will perform two free shows at 1 and 3 p.m. at Bluebird Park, 772 Cress Street, Laguna Beach. The show is for children of all ages and includes live music by Rob Reich and the six-piece Circus Bella All-Star Band. Audiences are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and small folding chairs to all locations. More information can be found at circusbella.org.
Art-To-Go is Head-To-Toe Opening Reception June 6 at City Hall
CALL LAGUNA BEACH AESTHETICS TODAY TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT!
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
Cervante and Bill Schley on August 17. Shauna McFadden and Bob Gunn will round out the concerts on September 14. Dinner boxes from GG’s Bistro and Noonerz are available by preorder.
The ECW group, made up of volunteers, will donate all proceeds to local charities such as the Community Clinic, Friendship Shelter, Sally’s Fund, Waymaker’s Youth Shelter, the Susi Q Community Center, among others (17 this year!). For complete information and to buy tickets, go to ecwstmaryslb.org.
Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach Announces Summer Camp Program
The Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach, which also serves Saddleback Valley, has announced its upcoming summer camp programs. These programs are tailored to provide safe, fun, and enriching experiences for children from June 17 through Aug. 16 in Laguna Beach and June
Those who like art and fashion will love “Head to Toe,” the 2024 Art-To-Go exhibition presented by The Artists Fund at the Festival of Arts. A preview show runs June 3 through June 13 at Laguna Beach City Hall. A free public reception is June 6, from 6 to 7 p.m.
“City Hall is a great starting place for First Thursdays Art Walk” said Rick Graves, The Artists Fund president. “Many artists will be in attendance.”
More than 35 originals by Festival exhibitors will be displayed. The theme references to fashion, as seen in several pieces, but many artists expanded on their interpretation of “Head-To-Toe.” Examples include “Diamonds are Forever,” an abstract glass wall sculpture by Lynleigh Love, and a sea anemone by photographer Sharon Williams.
The reception will include live music by Felisha Dunne and refreshments. It is presented in collabora-
Crier
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tion with the City of Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Department, 505 Forest Avenue. For more information, visit TheArtistsFund-foa.org.
June Art Start at Hotel Laguna Come dance with art, wine and hors d’oeuvres at Hotel Laguna on Thursday, June 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. The featured artists this month are Jill Cooper and Wendy Wirth. Saxophonist Jake Brown will provide lively music to enjoy while mingling with the art. Laguna Dance Festival will perform an enticing dance at 7 p.m. to top off the evening. Enjoy the rest of Art Walk from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information visit firstthursdaysartwalk.org.
FOA
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inspirations, techniques, and creative processes. Interactive art classes (sponsored by Bank of America), live demonstrations, and guided art tours (sponsored by PBS SoCal) further enrich the visitor experience, fostering a deeper connection between the creators and their audience. For a comprehensive list of the 2024 participating artists, please visit www. foapom.com/exhibitor-gallery.
During its two-month summer season, the Festival of Arts hosts daily live concerts and a variety of event series, sponsored by City of Hope Orange County and Yamaha. After making its debut at South Coast Plaza, The Music of Hope continues at the Festival of Arts all summer long. City of Hope’s blue “Hope” piano will be prominently featured on the Festival’s stage, honoring everyone whose lives have been touched by cancer. As part of this partnership, the Festival introduces Spotlight on the Music of Hope Blue Piano on select Saturday nights showcasing talented musicians who will enrich the lives of community members through this uplifting concert series.
On Sunday, July 14, the ever-popular Family Art Day returns with an exciting new animal theme featuring creature-inspired art projects as well as furry and feathered special guests! For the adults, Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate (sponsored by Charles Schwab and Cambria Estate Winery) provides the perfect atmosphere to pair wine, chocolate, and smooth jazz amongst an unmatched gallery setting.
Sharbie Higuchi, Festival of Arts Marketing and PR Director, adds “The Festival of Arts Fine Art Show has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a music lover, or simply looking for a fun artful experience- the Festival has it all.”
‘Angel
Shoe’
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“I think it illustrates Alexander McQueen’s immense creativity,” said Diane Challis Davy, Pageant of the Masters director. “McQueen drew inspiration from Byzantine art and Old Master paintings. I love the way he reinterprets art history into contemporary fashion. He is a true master of costume, materials and construction.”
The history of high heels traces back to the 10th century when Persian calvary wore them as a way to help keep their shoes in their stirrups. In the 17th century, influenced by the shoes worn by Persian emissaries, European nobility embraced the eye-catching footwear, which were often brightly colored and crafted from luxurious materials. High heels rose to prominence as a symbol of power and status for both men and women, before undergoing a dramatic shift in the 18th century. As fashion became more gendered and men’s trends began to emphasize practicality, high heels transitioned to primarily women’s footwear. Today, high heels continue to captivate fashion enthusiasts worldwide, serving as both a statement of style and a celebration of individuality.
During the first act of this summer’s Pageant of the Masters, audiences will be treated to a series of works that Challis Davy has dubbed “Fabulous Footwear.” This portion of the production will feature re-created masterpieces showcasing the artistry of footwear through the ages, like the “Royal Parisian Wedding” from a 14th-century manuscript, “The Swing” by oil painter Jean H. Fragonard, and, of course, “Angel Shoe” by Alexander McQueen.
“McQueen’s ‘Angle Shoe’ was the first time I had ever come across a shoe with a sculptured human figure. We knew instantly we needed to include it in the show,” said Challis Davy. “It should be spectacular to see a much largerthan-life re-creation of the shoe on the Pageant stage.”
From the opulent grandeur of royal courts to the contemporary glamor of today’s runways, “À La Mode: The Art of Fashion” will unravel the narrative of attire through the ages, revealing its inherent power and significance. Presented under Laguna Beach’s starry-summer night sky, the 2024 Pageant of the Masters will also feature live, original music and narration, breathtaking theatrical illusions, and some surprises, all presented in the 2,600-seat amphitheater of the Irvine Bowl.
“À La Mode: The Art of Fashion” will grace the stage nightly from July 6 through Aug. 30.
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 ush 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
7/25 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 ribute )
8/2 Beach Boy AL JARDINE
8/3 CUBENSIS ( g rateful d ead t ribute )
8/4 u kulele s tar : TAIMANE & Her Trio
8/9 BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY
8/10 THE BUSBOYS
8/11 THE JAMES KELLY BAND
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 ( l ynyrd s kynyrd , b ad C o ., ZZ t o P t ributes ) 9/12 GRAHAM BONNET P erforming r ainbo W , msg & a l C atra ZZ
9/13 RICHIE KOTZEN with Mark Daly 9/14 JOURNEY USA (J ourney t ribute ) 9/15 BENISE: Fiesta! 9/19 THE MAN IN BLACK (J ohnny C ash t ribute ) 9/22 JANE MONHEIT 9/25 ANA POPOVIC 9/27 DAVE MASON 10/3 ZEBRA 10/4 MIRAGE ( f leet W ood m a C t ribute ) 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 10/31 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS UNTOUCHABLES 11/1 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS UNTOUCHABLES 11/2 VENICE 11/3 THE WINEHOUSE EXPERIENCE
11/8 COMMON SENSE 11/9 TYRONE WELLS 11/15 RONSTADT REVIVAL 11/16 JOSHUA RADIN & RON POPE 11/22 SPACE ODDITY ( d avid b o W ie t ribute ) 11/23 RUFUS WAINWRIGHT 11/26 LEONID & FRIENDS (C hi C ago t ribute )
11/27 BEATLES VS STONES
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 12/29 L.A. GUNS 1/24 GENE LOVES JEZEBEL / BOW WOW WOW 2/16
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maximum building heights. However, according to resident Gene Felder, its implementation was met with a referendum petition that included 2,679 signatures, forcing the council to decide between repealing the ordinance or putting it to a public vote.
“The city’s April 12 staff report recommended a vote of the people when a variance was granted to exceed the 36-foot height limit— subsequently that disappeared,” said Felder. “Ordinance [1675] states that a building cannot be longer than 125 feet, but then states that ‘longer building lengths may be approved by the planning commission,’ so it’s not great.”
Residents liked this ordinance to Measure Q, which proposed an overlay zoning district and required voter approval for any major development project that did not conform to city’s unique building requirements. This was defeated in November 2022.
“We can all go and go back over that history and it was pretty muddy and pretty awful. And I will be one of the first people to say that it was very convoluted…” resident Michele Monda said to City Council. “This referendum…should have been about lot size, and…about height, because that’s what’s most important to most people.”
The public passionately discouraged the council’s decision to repeal the ordinance, citing a lack of community voice. Concerns were primarily raised around preserving Laguna Beach’s unique character, which is defined by small-scale commercial buildings. Some expressed concerns over building heights beyond the code’s 36-foot limitation, subsequently obstructing views.
“This kind of an ordinance, which has an impact over the entire city, should have been placed before them [citizens]. It should have had more notice than it had before,” said resident Jacob Cherub, who spoke of the original ordinance with the Los Angeles Times Media Group in 2022.
Laguna Ocean Foundation Celebrates National Ocean Month
By LB Indy Staff
The Laguna Ocean Foundation (LOF) is gearing up for National Ocean Month in June. What better time to celebrate the ocean and the amazing life it supports than the start of summer? Events kick off on Saturday, June 8 on World Oceans Day with LOF’s annual event KelpFest and culminate on June 28 with a Pacific Vocal Series recital.
GUIDED TIDEPOOL TOUR -
Saturday, June 8, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Join LOF’s Biologists for a guided tidepool tour at Heisler Park. Meet at the Rivian South Coast Theater and reserve your spot at rivian.com.spaces/laguna.
KELPFEST – Saturday, June 8, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The public is invited to join LOF and other local organizations as they promote ocean awareness through hands-on educational activities. Stop by the LOF booth to receive free raffle tickets for items donated by KelpFest sponsors. Enjoy live music provided by Mana and the Garden Band. A special announcement by Assemblymember Diane Dixon will be announced at 10 a.m. during the welcome ceremony about the new California State Seashell.
FILM SCREENING – Saturday, June 8, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Continue celebrating World Oceans Day at the Rivian South Coast Theater where theatre-goers can catch an ocean themed movie screening. KelpFest raffle items will be raffled off after the screening so be sure to stop by the LOF booth at
Last Chance to
Participants learn how to do the Kelp song and dance during KelpFest in 2023. Photo/LOF
BEACH CLEAN-UP – Saturday, June 22, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The Laguna Ocean Foundation is partnering with the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and The Ritual Refill to host a beach clean-up at Main Beach. Those interested in assisting with the clean-up is asked to register ahead of time at dash. pointapp.org/events/146552.
PACIFIC VOCAL SERIES – Friday, June 28, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
To round out National Ocean Month, join the Laguna Ocean Foundation and the Pacific Vocal Series for “Out of the Sea - Arts & Conservation” on Friday, June 28 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Hosted at the historic Rivian South Coast Theatre
in Laguna Beach, this “Art for a Cause” recital invites listeners into a meaningful story of conservation and nature through music, cinematography, and curated storytelling, and features Southern California artist Jana McIntyre who has been seen on the stages of the world’s most prestigious opera houses.
Tickets are now available to the public with all proceeds going towards supporting our Laguna Beach nonprofits. To learn more about the event and all that is included in this special evening of pure Laguna Beach culture, visit pacificvocalseries.com.
For more information on upcoming events or how you can help support LOF, contact Alayna Ader at Alayna@lagunaoceanfoundation.org. Event details can be found at lagunaoceanfoundation.org.
Get Tickets for Susi Q’s Evening With an Author, Featuring Novelist Michelle Huneven on June 3
Author Michelle Huneven will be at the Susi Q on June 3 for Evening With An Author. Photo courtesy of Michelle Huneven
By LB Indy Staff
Popular novelist Michelle Huneven will be featured at Susi Q’s fifth “Evening With An Author” event on June 3. The series, beloved by book club members, includes light appetizers, wine and an opportunity to mingle with fellow book lovers. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., with the program beginning at 5:15 p.m., followed by book signings.
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 about a congregational search committee, told as a memoir with recipes. During the event, the author will engage in a lively conversation with podcaster and arts columnist Marrie Stone. As a special bonus, attendees will also receive a copy of the book, a literary gem that has been praised by the New York Times Book Review and selected as an NPR Best Book of the Year, for a nominal $40 fee. The Susi Q is located at 380 Third Street, Laguna Beach. To secure a spot, visit thesusiq.org.
KelpFest to receive a free raffle ticket.
of events and I enormously grateful to Meital and her entire team. Brilliant!
