Laguna Beach High School celebrated its 2024 graduating class with a moving commencement ceremony at Guyer Field last Thursday, June 13. Over 250 graduates walked, and speeches were given by English teacher Jonathan Hendrickson and seniors Riley Beason and Summer Dimaggio. This year’s valedictorian was Christopher Herkins, and Elaina Seybold was salutatorian. Photos courtesy of LBUSD
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
The Festival of Arts is rolling out a new summer concert series in conjunction with its Fine Art Show, which will take place on the outdoor concert stage at the Festival grounds.
From July 3 to Aug. 30, the Festival will feature an eclectic mix of genres and extraordinary talent from across the county and beyond. A popular weekly series will return, and two new, special must-see musical performances will be presented.
“We’re thrilled to announce a vibrant and diverse musical
Laguna Beach to Host Fourth of July Drone Show from Heisler Park
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
The City of Laguna Beach is gearing up for its July 4 drone show, which will begin at 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, from Monument Point in Heisler Park.
Large crowds are anticipated for the July 4 holiday, and areas of Heisler Park, including the Laguna Beach Lawn Bowling green and Monument Point, will be closed all day on Thursday, July 4.
At approximately 5 p.m., the area of Heisler Park from Myrtle Street to the Rockpile Beach stairs at Jasmine Street will be closed to the public to allow for the Fourth of July drone flyover beginning at 9 p.m. The show will last approximately 15 minutes.
Voice of Laguna and KXFM Radio will broadcast a live audio simulcast of patriotic music during the drone show.
Heavy traffic is expected after the drone show ends, as visitors will leave through Laguna Canyon Road and Coast Highway.
The city trolleys will operate under a modified schedule on July 4. The coastal route will run from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and the canyon route from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Laguna Beach Local On-Demand service will run from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The normal transit service schedules will resume on Friday, July 5.
All fireworks are illegal in Laguna Beach, and this includes “Safe and Sane”
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type fireworks and sparklers that may be legal to purchase in other cities. The Laguna Beach Police, Fire and Marine Safety Departments are bolstering the number of officers working on July 4, specifically looking for fireworks violations. Any member of the police or fire department can confiscate fireworks if found.
“Persons in possession of or discharging fireworks of any kind – including firecrackers, bottle rockets, mortars, roman candles, or anything that flies/shoots through the air – may be cited for a misdemeanor offense, which carries a fine of up to $1,000 and jail time of up to 6 months,” a city release stated. “If you see or hear illegal fireworks being used in Laguna Beach, please call our nonemergency hotline at 949-497-0701.”
The city reminds the public to observe all ordinances, including no alcohol on the beaches; no smoking in public places; no single-use plastics are allowed on beaches, trails, or in parks; no private drone use from Main Beach to Crescent Bay; no canopies, awnings, umbrellas, tents or covers over six feet in height or wider than six feet square on or in any public beach, park. Any canopy, awning, umbrella, tent or cover installed, shall have no more than one side closed to public view.
In addition, there are no portable barbecues are allowed in city beaches or parks and no dogs are allowed on city beaches from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer season, which extends from June 15 through Sept. 10
THOMAS P. DAVIS, APC (Tom) is pleased to announce that he has joined Anderson Law Group (Nicole Anderson) as of counsel to the firm. He will continue to handle litigation and transactional matters, including business formation, real estate and business contract review, contract negotiations, and litigation management and avoidance. The firm also serves as outside general corporate counsel on behalf of for-profit and non-profit organizations.
Artist John Cosby Solo Exhibition at LPAPA Gallery
Internationally recognized plein air painter John Cosby is currently featured at the Laguna Plein Air Painters Association (LPAPA) gallery’s “Artist in Residence” from June 6 through July 1.
Looking West, a Portrait of the Places I Love, a solo exhibition created by LPAPA’s Signature Artist and Founding Member, John Cosby, will feature several major works, as well as plein air studies.
Also plan to join LPAPA on Wednesday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rivian South Coast Theatre for the film screening of John Cosby: A Journey in Art. More information at our website, info@LPAPA,org.
The LPAPA Gallery is located at 414 N. Coast Highway, on Gallery Row between Jasmine and Myrtle, in Laguna Beach, California. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Monday and by appointment. The Gallery is open for extended hours, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., for Art Walk, the First Thursday of each month. Contact LPAPA by email at Info@LPAPA.org or by phone at 949-376-3635.
Democratic Debate and Disco Democrats and fun-loving independents are invited to dance the night away on Thursday, June 27 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Laguna Beach Democratic Club’s “Democratic Debate and Disco” event in Bridge Hall at Neighborhood Congregational Church, 340 St. Ann’s Drive. Guests will enjoy made-to-order tacos, wine, beer and all the music they can dance to for a $40 suggested donation to fund Democratic races. A big-screen TV screen will air the first presidential debate, which starts at 6 p.m. local time.
LBDC chair Peggy Wolff said, “Although we face one of the most serious election seasons in our lifetimes, we will rally local Democrats to have some fun and get energized. It’s all hands on deck to protect democracy and personal freedoms, so anyone who wants to help can get a volunteer assignment that suits their availability and disposition.”
Established in 1945, the Laguna Beach Democratic Club is an all-volunteer, chartered club of the Democratic Party of Orange County. It is in its 78th year of uninterrupted engagement supporting Democratic candidates, policies, and values. Democrats believe in an economy
that benefits everyone, health care as a right, diversity as a strength, and democracy as worth defending.
Club membership and events are open to registered Democrats and independents (who may join but not vote on club endorsements). Visit thelbdems.com to join for the calendar year. General meeting speakers have included legal scholar Erwin Chemerinsky, Rep. Katie Porter, Peg Corley of the LGBTQ Center OC, Mayor Sue Kempf, author and political scientist Kevin O’Leary, and doctor Allyson Brooks of Hoag Women’s Health Institute.
Camelot to open at Laguna Playhouse in late July Laguna Playhouse is thrilled to announce the creative team and full casting for one of the most legendary musicals of all time, a transfer production from North Coast Repertory Theatre of Lerner & Loewe’s Camelot. The book and lyrics are by Alan Jay Lerner, music by Frederick Loewe, original production directed and staged by Moss Hart, based on The Once and Future King by T.H. White, new orchestrations by Steve Orich, musical direction by Daniel Lincoln,
Affordable Housing in Laguna Hats off to our local Neighborhood Congregational Church and its willingness to use excess space to build low-income housing. This is such a Christian act. We have a large number of residents who would qualify for this type of housing. These individuals are facing challenging difficulties and navigating the increased rental costs happening all over Laguna. Many of these individuals work in our stores and restaurants. They have been good citizens for a long time. The rental situation is constantly changing in Laguna as landlords find they can get more money for their rentals. It would be a shame to lose these great workers because there is no affordable housing in town.
Laguna Beach Unified School District has worked with the County of Orange to establish a 55-year agreement, allowing National Church Residences to transform a vacant school into 70 units of low-income senior housing in south Laguna. One of our servers from a local restaurant finally cleared the waiting list, and she was able to move into this wonderful residence. This move has made all the difference to this older individual’s ability to stay in Laguna comfortably and pay her rent. The renters have added to the neighborhood, bought goods and services from local merchants, and not caused any problems over the last 50 years.
I am sure the Congregational Church will be a good steward of its land and involve its neighbors in making decisions that will make the projects work and fit into the community.
I hope that our other churches, which are wealthier and have more land, will consider this Christian act of providing housing for needy residents.
Jim Kelly, Laguna Beach
A Sin Tax for Drinking Alcohol as a Revenue Source?
I watched and listened to the City Council meeting last Tuesday night, June 11. Desperately seeking revenue sources to fund the humungous pile of Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs) plus operation and maintenance costs, community services, etc., I didn’t hear anyone start a conversation about “sin taxes,” in this case, alcohol-serving establishments. Maybe the fines from tickets for open container violators, plus DUIs?
I wondered how many drinks are sold by our bars or alcohol-serving restaurants per year.
Since they often abuse our police department’s time for various complaint calls, create nuisances near these businesses, are often loud and obnoxious in our local favorite spots and jeopardize our lives when they get behind the wheel, maybe add 10% to libation costs, earmarked and deposited directly to the city?
LETTERS, PAGE 8
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION
Do you support Neighborhood Congregational Church’s affordable housing project, which hopes to bring 72 affordable units to Laguna Beach?
- Yes: 50.53% (384 votes)
- No: 49.47% (376 votes)
TOTAL VOTES: 760
THIS WEEK’S QUESTION
Will you be attending the Pageant of the Masters this summer?
- Yes - No
VOTE, VISIT THE POLL TAB AT LAGUNABEACHINDY.COM. SUBMIT POLL QUESTIONS TO
June 25 - Laguna Beach City Council at 5 p.m. June 26 - Administrative Design Review at 3 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
ADVERTISING
ADVERTISING
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
Lisa.Bartlett@ocgov.com
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. FOR
By Ann Christoph
Last week, the City Council considered whether voters would be interested in increasing taxes in an attempt to extract more income from visitors and produce more funds for the projects the Council is planning. They considered raising the sales tax, increasing the business license tax for bars and restaurants and/or upping the bed tax—called the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT), which would raise $3.5-3.6 million annually.
Kurt Bjorkman, general manager of the Ranch at Laguna Beach, engaged the council in a discussion of the real
world of competition for the visitors looking for a special destination, who also are always considering the price.
The TOT entered into that pricing decision, and Bjorkman maintained that a list of major hotels in town would not support an increase. Other coastal towns compete for the same visitors that Laguna Beach hotels covet, he said.
Councilman George Weiss pointed out, “You’ve got one of the most unique locations in California, if not the United States, the world...”
Bjorkman countered, “I agree that our city, our beautiful…our topography and everything…I would say, if we were to support a TOT increase because we’ve got the best city in California, the best city in California should shine like the best city in California.”
It doesn’t now.
What does it take to make Laguna shine—to have our parks, streets, and public spaces befit the magnificent cliffs, coast, canyons and artistic heritage we have been blessed with? Our generous annual budget has grown from $30 million when I was on the council in the early 90s to over $145 million today. We have 345 city employees, but most of them are doing something other than making
the town shine. There is a maintenance crew of only seven to manage a giant list of tasks. Supervisor Wayne Chintala cited responsibilities that ranged from sweeping sand back into play areas and picking up trash to managing planting and irrigation systems. Outside contractors are also hired to mow lawns and maintain some areas.
Highly visited areas like Heisler Park get more attention, but even the downtown tree wells and planted areas have been neglected and are home to mature weeds. Last year, I wrote to Public Works about the condition of Village Green in South Laguna. It was overrun with weeds
and unmanaged shrubbery. Parents complained that they had to go out to the park and clean up before guests arrived there for their child’s birthday party. “It’s embarrassing,” they said. A crew was sent out with their power hedge trimmers—the instant solution. Often improperly used to zip through landscaping, all they do is give the impression that a crew has been there doing something. They ruin the structure of shrubbery and often cut off all the flowers. I pointed out that the adopted city policy recommends naturalistic pruning. Staff maintain they know how to do proper pruning,
PAGE 4
choreography by Jill Gorrie Rovatsos, and directed by Jeffrey B. Moss. Lerner & Loewe’s Camelot begins previews on Wednesday, July 24 and will open on Sunday, July 28 at 5:30 p.m. and perform through Sunday, August 11 at the Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Drive.
Village Laguna to Feature City Manager Dave Kiff at General Meeting
Village Laguna’s June general meeting will give locals an opportunity to get to know new City Manager Dave Kiff at the Susi Q Monday, June 24, 6 p.m. He will give attendees some information about his prior experience and what drew him to Laguna Beach. Residents are invited to suggest topics you would like him to cover or ask questions in advance by sending them to villagelagunainfo@gmail.com. Light refreshments will be available. All are welcome.
Laguna Playhouse Announces: The Male Intellect: An Oxymoron? And Woody Sings: The Musical Legacy of Woody Guthrie Laguna Playhouse has two special events coming up this June. Robert Dubac’s critically acclaimed, hilarious and insightful, “The Male Intellect: An Oxymoron?” and an evening of music from the legendary American songwriter Woody Guthrie, Woody Sings: The Musical Legacy of Woody Guthrie” starring award-winning actor/singer David M. Lutken and his band of talented multi-instrumentalists. Both shows will perform beginning the week of June 26 at the Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Drive in Laguna Beach.
Tickets can be purchased online at lagunaplayhouse.com or by calling 949-497-2787. Laguna Playhouse is located at 606 Laguna Canyon Road in Laguna Beach.
Summer Neighborhood Movie Series
This summer’s Neighborhood Movie Series kicks off on June 27 at Alta Laguna Park.
The first film showing will be Trolls Band Together at Alta Laguna Park on Thursday, June 27 at 8:30 p.m. Bring low-back beach chairs and snacks for the movie. Call 949-4646645 or email recreation@lagu-
PAGE 6
Has anyone ever heard any of our council members deep dive that topic over the years, does anyone have any idea, any estimates on how much revenue that’d generate? Just wondering.
Roger Butow, Laguna Beach
Let’s Find a Solution
Heavily restricted access to the Main Beach volleyball courts is not one of the world’s biggest problems. On the other hand, it’s a problem that doesn’t need to exist. A wide range of possible solutions could convert this problem into a community-wide benefit.
First, the background. The Laguna Beach Recreation Department offers a wide variety of beach volleyball camps and courses throughout the summer. As a result, very little court time remains for recreational use by ordinary residents. During some weeks, for example, volleyball classes operate continuously throughout the day from 8 a.m. until 5:45 p.m., leaving no time whatsoever for tax-paying residents.
Obviously, the rec department intends no harm; it is simply trying to offer a range of opportunities to our youth. Because of that intent, finding a solution should not be challenging. But before proposing possible solutions, I’d like to suggest “walking in our flip flops” for a moment.
Over the last few years, the number of high school and city programs using the Main Beach volleyball courts has grown dramatically. This growing demand has caused a kind of “habitat destruction” that has forced recreational volleyball-playing residents into narrower and narrower time slots.
Not surprisingly, the competition for courts has become intense. But even when we recreational players use the courts, we cannot control them for our exclusive use like the high school and city classes do. Instead, we operate a “challenge system,” by which anyone may request an opportunity to play on the court. Here are two possible solutions to the problem:
Share the wealth! Main Beach is not the only beach in Laguna with volleyball courts and/or additional court space. A short list of additional
By Frank Aronoff | LB Indy BREAKER SPORTS UPDATE
Laguna’s 90th varsity football season opens in August. The squad is led by their all-time quarterback, Jackson Kollock, who has committed to Minnesota for his collegiate career. Coach John Shanahan returns for his ninth season (59-31-0), the thirdlongest run in Laguna history. Last year, the team went 9-2, and the frosh/ soph squad went 10-0 and outscored their opponents 457-14, facing a very challenging schedule.
For the first 73 varsity seasons, all sports at Laguna, including football, were grouped into one league, usually based on school size and geography. Laguna won 13 football titles under this format. In 2018, the Breakers joined the ultra-competitive Sunset Conference for all sports but football. Football was placed in the weaker Golden West Conference, competing in the Pac-4 League, winning four league crowns in six seasons of play.
Starting this season, 69 Orange County schools will be placed into 12 leagues based on a computerweighted algorithm on the last two seasons of play. This was the same system used the past two seasons for football playoff division assignments based on actual current season results. The Breakers have ended up in the fifth strongest league for the next two seasons, along with Northwood, Orange, Fountain Valley, Aliso Niguel, and Dana Hills – all schools more than twice the enrollment size of Laguna. The official league name, as selected by the Orange County Football Conference, is “Fox Trot.” There are 373 high schools in the Southern Section that play 11-man football, and the Breakers enter the 2024 season with their highest preseason ranking in 89th. 2024 season schedule – 7 p.m. kickoff time. (series history) Aug. 23 at St. Margaret’s (1-4-0) Aug. 30 at Santa Monica (first meeting)
beaches would include Emerald Bay, Victoria Beach and 10th Street. Perhaps one or more of these beaches would appreciate the opportunity to support our youth by hosting some portion of our beach volleyball programs.
Install seasonal courts. During the summer months, ample room exists at the north end of Main Beach to install two seasonal courts. This simple solution, all by itself, would provide immediate and equitable access to beach courts for both city-sponsored classes and recreational play.
After all, the spirit of Laguna Beach is not to gain an advantage at the expense of another; it is to share this town’s unique and magical qualities as completely and broadly as possible throughout the community.
Eric Fry, Laguna Beach
Why Are Laguna’s Roads So Bad?
Driving through Dana Point and Monarch Beach on silky smooth blacktop, well-groomed and attractive, leads to a stark contrast upon
entering Laguna just past the hospital. The condition of Pacific Coast Highway becomes an embarrassment of potholes and fatigued asphalt and concrete patches. Having to negotiate street hazards that can damage your suspension is quite distracting. All while avoiding the trucks and buses and tourists looking everywhere but to the road. I am aware that Caltrans is responsible for maintaining PCH, not the City of Laguna. But I ask, why is the road south of Laguna beautiful, while PCH Laguna reminds me of Tijuana? It doesn’t get any better until you enter north Laguna. I drive the stretch from south Laguna to north almost daily, and I know where the bad spots are. But I don’t want to be ticketed for swerving on the streets. Nor do I want a $1,000 suspension repair. Hopefully, a reader here may have an answer.
I can’t be the only one who notices the contrast.
Tom Bernt, Laguna Beach
Village Laguna website
Sept. 6 - Kennedy/La Palma (first meeting)
Sept. 13 - Gig Harbor – WA (first meeting)
Sept. 20 - El Dorado (2-3-0)
Sept. 27 - bye
Oct. 4 - Northwood at Irvine HS (6-8-0)
Oct. 11 - Fountain Valley (1-0-0) Homecoming
Oct. 18 at Aliso Niguel (0-5-0)
Oct. 25 - Dana Hills (11-11-1)
Nov. 1 - Orange (5-12-0)
e Fox Trot league games are in bold. Visit the Cal Preps website for ratings, schedules, scores and more: calpreps.com.
Indoor Volleyball – Local Summer Program
Back in the 1970s, Rolf Engen founded the Laguna Beach Volleyball Club as a local community non-profit to train Laguna’s boys and girls and support the high school program. The high school teams were successful during this 30-year period until the club changed its mission and moved out of town. In the ensuing years, a few attempts were made to re-establish a local communitybased program, and it wasn’t till Leif Hansen, the 1983 State High School Player of the Year, established the
Laguna Coast Volleyball Club that a local program is now firmly reestablished. Several veteran Laguna volleyball legends with extensive club coaching experience have joined the program, and the club now provides both boys’ and girls’ teams. The Thurston Middle School sports program has also been a big boost to the local volleyball scene. The local club summer programs begin for kids as young as seven. Visit the website for more information, lagunacoastvolleyballclub.org.
ALUMNI NOTES:
Women’s water polo: Emma Lineback ’21 is on the Senior Women’s National Team this year.
Beach volleyball: Incoming senior Kyra Zaengle has made USA Volleyball’s Under 19 Women’s National Team.
Laguna Beach High School Athletics summer programs will start soon. Check out the programs for all sports at lbhs.lbusd.org.
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.
Congratulations Kayla!
You are a happy and enthusiastic person who loved every minute of school in Laguna TMS. Your resilience, hard work and creativity made you successful. In academics you tackled a diverse range of subjects and loved English, History and charity work, and you care about this country and did really well. You trained and played hard in swimming and surfing, and built up great skills and experienced the joy and support of being part of a team. You love your music and acting and are quite the guitar rockstar and young actress. You share your gifts with people as a songwriter, singer and performer. You want to do much in your life, to inspire people and to be inspired. Your family and friends love your loyalty, kindness, and unique perspective on life. You’ll continue to grow and find your niche in the world and will bring your sunshine to a lucky group of people. We will always be there to support you along the way. Keep on smiling, give it your best and pursue your dreams.
We love you very much! Mom, Dad, Brother and Sister
By Billy Fried
Summer is here. And so is all of Riverside. If this week is any indication, we are in for a holy hell of devastating gridlock this summer. Until the city has the will to take control of our major arteries and radically reimagine them as less car-centric and more multi-modal, quit your complaining and deal with it. Because, unlike everywhere else
on this crowded planet, at least we have the pleasant respite of our perfect beaches, with the toasty sand, refreshing water and quiet breeze. Okay, so it takes you 30 minutes to get from your house to the beach. You finally wrangle parking, lug your gear down the steps, set your chair up, grab a cool drink, and settle in with your summer reading.
And then the drone comes, building, getting louder, gaining decibels. Is it an army of leafblowers? Chain saws? Dune buggies? No, it’s those flying lawnmowers in the sky known as paramotors. They look like mini swamp boats. They fly low, right over you, doing their swoops, and the first time, it’s a novelty and kind of cool. But by the third time, your head rattles. And they keep coming and coming, often hovering over you in a vainglorious attempt for attention.
I was recently enjoying the newly replaced firepits at Aliso Beach and could not hear myself or others speak when these flying lawnmowers came swooping in. They disrupted our entire town as they made their way up the coast. We had to wait until they finished their aerial tricks and moved on to the next beach to annoy everyone there. Why over our beaches, our last bastion of tranquility in a crowded world? Well, it’s because these pilots have discovered a loophole in FAA regulations, where they are classified as an ultralight, and are governed under the rules of FAR 103, which contains barely any rules at all. No pilot license required. No driver’s license. No training. No age requirement. They can hover one foot off the ground so long as they are not over buildings or people.
And these South County fliers have discovered the perfect route to our coast from Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. They fly high over green space until they reach the ocean. And then dip and dive and showboat. Do you blame them? With precious open space in our crowded corridor, they have found the most spectacular place to fly – over our ocean and within spitting distance of our luxury beachfront homes, where they enjoy front-row seats in our bathrooms and private areas. And that’s intrusive if you are sunning your perineum or enjoying a luxurious douching on your Japanese toilet. Where can we go to escape the noise outside our home? Our streets are belching toxic fumes. And our restaurants sound like MMA events. I used to scoff at all the old people complaining about the noise here caused by revving vehicles and Harleys. But then I got old. And my tinnitus kicked in from that one George Clinton concert when my ear was pressed against the monitor. I can’t enjoy 90% of our restaurants now. Noise has become one of the biggest dis-regulators of our nervous system. And the second biggest complaint about restaurants outside of food.
Okay, I’ll admit those cheeky par-
By toM osBorne
It’s cerebral. It’s science. It’s informative. It’s spellbinding. It’s personal. It’s fun. It’s visceral. It’s critically acclaimed cinematic art. It’s the MacGillivray Freeman Oscarnominated film: “The Living Sea.”
My wife and I viewed it for the third or fourth time since its 1995 release. We’ve seen it on the giant IMAX screen at the Irvine Spectrum;
I’ve shown it to my students at Santa Ana College; and most recently, we watched it at Laguna’s cameo venue, the Rivian South Coast Theater, on the evening of June 13 with a capacity audience. The Coast Film & Music Festival presented the film.
Greg MacGillivray has some important things in common with my favorite writer, John Steinbeck. Both took science courses at California universities, getting what they needed before diving into what they loved: storytelling for large, truly international audiences. For both gifted storytellers, the sea figured prominently in their lives and artistry, and both saw a unity and interdependence in all that exists. In the “Log from the Sea of Cortez,” John Steinbeck said, “all things are one thing and that one thing is all things—plankton, a shimmering phosphorescence on the sea and the spinning planets and an expanding universe, all bound together by the elastic string of time. It is advisable to look from the tide pool to the stars and then back to the
The Woman’s Club of Laguna Beach honored Renae Hinchey as its 2024 Woman of the Year at a luncheon on Friday, June 14, at its clubhouse at 286 St. Ann’s Drive, Laguna Beach. Hinchey has been a member of the Woman’s Club for 24 years and served as board president in 2008. She worked for the Laguna Beach County Water District for 20 years before retiring in 2020 and was the first woman in Orange County to hold
tide pool again.” In “The Living Sea,” MacGillivray muses on a less celestial scale, through the voice of narrator Meryl Streep, about the “one world ocean” that provides us with oxygen, food, livelihoods, recreation, awe, and connection to our precursors through time.
In the film, this interdependence and connection through time are personalized poignantly in a segment situated in Palau, where a Pacific island diver, Francis Toribiong, takes his son and daughter on an underwater venture that he hopes will impart reverence and ecological understanding of how their people have a symbiotic relationship with the sea. What humans do to the ocean, in effect, we do to ourselves because islanders’ lives are linked inextricably to marine life. Lest we fail to see the broader implications of Francis’s powerful teaching, he reminds us: “We are all islanders.”
Aside from the film’s clear but not preachy message about the ocean’s beauty, fragility, and centrality to the
existence of virtually all life, I and others were amazed to learn a few things about the making of this film. It grossed $120 million and has been seen by approximately 150 million people worldwide of all ages. Film editor Stephen Judson and music composer/arranger Steve Wood, both highly talented longtime MacGillivray associates, were interviewed on stage after the showing. “Editing is a lonely, lonely process,” said Judson, who has a wry sense of humor. The editing labor can be seen in the fact that only one one-hundredth of the surfing footage ended up being used in the film. Thirty years ago, all that footage was shot from expensive helicopters, not drones. Steve Wood likened the skillful assemblage of film scenes and accompanying music to the making of “a giant salad.”
Both seemed to say that Greg had the overall vision and aesthetic goal for the film. Simply put, said Judson: “Make people fall in love with the sea.”
OSBORNE, PAGE 9
Past
Left:
the position of water district general manager. Now, she serves as the board president of the Susi Q.
“It is such a pleasure to be a part of the Susi Q family,” Hinchey said.
“Working with executive director
Nadia Babayi and the staff has been a wonderful experience. It’s exciting to see the Susi Q grow and offer so much to our seniors. I’m proud to be a part of it.”
By LB Indy Staff
Slice Pizza & Beer released its sixth Laguna Beach artist-designed box last week, featuring artwork from artist James Strombotne. He also selected the quote on the inside flap by Albert Einstein, “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” In keeping with the concept of promoting the local community,
the pizza restaurant decided when it opened to have artists associated with Laguna Beach design their boxes. Local artists Cindy Fletcher, Sharon Hardy, Lisa Mansour, Lauren Howell and Larry Stewart designed the previous five boxes.
The restaurant stated that the box was released last week and will be available for most of the year.
Thursday, June 13
No arrests reported.
Friday, June 14
No arrests reported.
Saturday, June 15
DUI. A 40-year-old Studio City woman was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. She was held on a $2,500 bail.
Battery, grand theft. Marcus Frank Zavala, 50, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of grand theft and battery on a person. He was held on a $20,500 bail.
Possessing a switchblade knife and taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent. Jordan Damien Usary, 31, of Laguna Beach was arrested on suspicion of possessing a switchblade knife and taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent. He was held without bail.
Possessing a controlled substance, carrying a concealed dirk or dagger, parole violation. Henrique Daggettbuchanan, 37, was arrested for possessing a controlled substance, carrying a concealed dirk or dagger and parole violation. He was held without bail.
Sunday, June 16
DUI. A 23-year-old Beaumont woman was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. She was held on a $2,500 bail.
DUI. A 38-year-old Los Angeles man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on a $2,500 bail.
Monday, June 17 No arrests reported.
Tuesday, June 18
DUI. A 19-year-old Laguna Beach man was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. He was held on a $2,500 bail.
Disorderly conduct. Marlo Eugene Maldonado, 46, of Newport Beach was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct. He was held on a $500 bail.
Disorderly conduct, carrying a loaded firearm in a public place or vehicle, bench warrant. Daron Shon O’Brien, 33, of Long Beach was arrested on suspicion of alcohol-related disorderly conduct, carrying a loaded firearm in a public place or vehicle and having an outstanding bench warrant. He was held without bail.
Assault. Mukhtar Hussain Ali, 49, of Lake Forest, was arrested on suspicion of a felony assault with a deadly weapon that was not a firearm likely causing great bodily injury. He was held on $25,000 bail.
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
Laguna Canyon Foundation’s 2023/2024 trail season, which began in October, will wrap up on June 29.
Over the past nine months, LCF held 39 volunteer trail stewardship days that resulted in noticeable trail improvements in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. In total, staff and volunteers improved 3,470 linear feet of trail tread, brushed 15,480 linear feet of trail, and installed or improved 258 drains to better control the impact of water on the trail during the rainy season. These improvements create a better user experience for all trail users while also ensuring that critical trailadjacent habitat is protected.
A project that many mountain bikers and hikers have been excited about is the recent improvements to Cholla Trail in Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness
Park. Thanks to funding by an anonymous private donor, Cholla Trail has been significantly improved over the last six months. LCF staff and volunteers smoothed out the rough tread and narrowed the trail, which in some places had eroded the surrounding landscape and become as wide as a road.
The improvements to Cholla Trail are one example of the trail work Laguna Canyon Foundation does around the parks every day to maintain Laguna Beach’s world-class trail system while protecting the surrounding wilderness. To get involved and help improve trails and better protect wildlife habitat, visit lagunacanyon.org/events. Upcoming trail volunteer days will be held tomorrow, June 22 and June 29.
Laguna Canyon Foundation is dedicated to preserving, protecting, enhancing, and promoting the 22,000acre South Coast Wilderness.
By lAGUnA BeACh lGBtQ heritAGe & CUltUre AlliAnCe
June is LGBTQ Heritage & Culture Month in Laguna Beach, as unanimously proclaimed by the City Council in 2017. Both our current city manager and mayor happen to be openly gay. This milestone has happened without any brouhaha in the press, unlike when Laguna elected our first openly gay mayor, Bob Gentry, in 1982. This is a good thing; much progress has been made, to be sure.
However, this progress is not representative of the recent increase of anti-LGBTQ moves against the Laguna Beach queer community. Over the last two years, we have seen several rainbow flags in our town stolen and broken. Hateful slurs have been repeatedly shouted toward our local gay community. We’ve heard numerous reports of residents refusing to do business with our LGBTQ community because of their “lifestyle.” And after over 100 years of providing a safe haven to the gay community, our last remaining gay bar in Laguna Beach quietly closed its doors.
Now, more than ever, our LGBTQ community needs the support of our allies.
Being an ally is more important than many people realize. It sends a powerful message that everyone deserves to be treated equally and with respect, regardless of who they love or how they identify. It also shows the LGBTQ community that you welcome and embrace them. Being an ally helps foster a safe and empowering environment where residents and visitors feel safe to be themselves and are supported by those who care about them.
However, developing oneself as an ally is a skill that doesn’t happen overnight. It comes from engaging in open conversations, asking questions, recognizing your own biases, and often stepping out of your comfort zone. Being an ally means learning, empathizing and, in many ways, taking on the struggle as your own.
What is an ally, exactly? An ally is someone who supports and stands up for one or more marginalized groups. Here are a few specific ways you can become an ally:
Listen: The easiest way to become an ally is to listen.
Educate yourself: Identify and challenge stereotypes and unconscious bias. It starts with learning a little history. Come to an event.
Talk with others in our community: Have conversations with LGBTQ+ people, from high school students to senior citizens, from your neighbors to your community leaders, and learn about their experiences and histories.
Learn and use correct inclusive language: In the LGBTQ community, language is everything. Using the right words and pronouns is important when referring to someone’s gender identity.
Speak up and intervene: Don’t tolerate anti-LGBTQ jokes or statements expressed in your presence. It matters that derogatory language is called out. Raise a rainbow flag: Show that your home or business is safe. Show that our town welcomes the LGBTQ community.
Laguna Beach LGBTQ Heritage & Culture Alliance ensures residents and visitors nd their lives re ected and honored in the policies, arts, culture and celebrations within the City of Laguna Beach.
By Clara Beard | LB Indy
El Morro Elementary School third graders visited the historic Murphy Smith Bungalow in June to learn about the community and local history.
This year, the third graders were greeted by actors from Laguna’s
own community theater group, No Square Theater. Actors playing Bette Davis, Vernon Murphy (original owner), Blanche Clapp Smith (second owner and last resident), Jack Norworth, Pancho Barnes and Frank Cuprien were all among the
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June 28, 1967June 13, 2024
John was a 35-year Laguna Beach resident who graduated from Laguna Beach High School in 1985. He was living in Florida at the time of his death. He died suddenly of a heart attack. He is survived by his father and his siblings, David Schroeder, David Schroeder Jr. and Kelly Schroeder.
By MiChele MondA
A responsible city should behave like a responsible household –expenses should be covered by available income. Laguna Beach’s projected income for the next fiscal year is $144 million with budgeted expenses taking $143 million. How does the over-eager City Council majority plan to pay for expensive projects it wants to do like taking over/undergrounding Laguna Canyon road ($150 million), a new fire station ($8 million), making the Promenade permanent ($3 million), a municipal pool ($12 million), overhauling St.
January 31, 1954 – May 17, 2024
Linda Ann Gehringer, much-loved wife, stepmother, sister, aunt and acclaimed actress, died at her home in Laguna Beach, California, on May 17, 2024, at the age of 70. Her passing created a void in the lives of those who loved her, but also leaves a spectacular legacy of joy, laughter, love, friendship, boundless energy, endless spirit, and tremendous accomplishment in the acting world, on-screen, but especially on stage, where Linda was truly at home.
Linda was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, where she attended St. Mary’s of Redford, where she first found the stage in various high school productions. She received her BFA from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, where she frequently performed in productions at the Barn Theater there. Linda went on to
Catherine’s with state-of-the-art staff offices ($20 million?), parking structure at the Village Entrance($10 to $15 million), Downtown Action Plan ($14 million)?
Raise taxes, of course.
Using the 2024 Community Survey as a guide, on June 11, 2024, the council discussed which form of increased taxes voters would support as a ballot measure in November: raising the sales tax, raising the Business License Tax, or raising the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) paid by hotel guests. A parcel tax on all real estate in Laguna was such a bad idea that it never made it into the survey.
A sales tax increase was dismissed even after residents were informed what the half-cent tax increase would fund — a split sample found 54% and 56% said no.
The Business License Tax (BLT) has not been revised in 28 years and is well below most other cities. While 53% responded no to raising the BLT, 49% agreed that the BLT needs to be modernized. It’s currently capped at $1,650 for all businesses, seemingly low for some of the larger businesses
in town. Laguna restaurants, on average, enjoy annual gross revenue of $3 million with a relatively low turnover rate.
While, due to survey results, the council thought now is not the time to raise business taxes, all businesses wouldn’t necessarily receive substantial fee increases. If the BLT increase is targeted at restaurants and bars only, which collectively bring in over $400 million in annual revenue, and at least 50% of customers are visitors, the survey responses might have been different. Couldn’t the council impose increased BLT fees by category at a council meeting? They seem to be afraid to go that route and alienate their main constituents. But council felt if it could get the Chamber of Commerce on board with updating the tax, then this should be revisited.
The Transient Occupancy Tax (paid by hotel guests) is 14% of the room cost. 12% goes into the General Fund, the Capital Improvement Fund and the Measure LL fund. One percent goes to Visit Laguna for marketing, and 1% goes to fund the arts in MONDA, PAGE 17
receive her MFA from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis and, upon graduation, was awarded the prestigious Bush Fellowship, which entitled her to spend a year performing at the Guthrie Theater, one of the top regional theaters in the country. She also met her first husband, Ken Bryant, a theater director and MFA recipient there and they were married in 1980. Ken’s extended family are also Laguna Beach residents.
Linda and Ken spent several years in New York before moving to Dallas. Linda performed in many plays in Dallas, while Ken became the youngest artistic director in the country when he was named the artistic director of the Dallas Theater Center. Their idyllic lives were torn apart when Ken was accidentally killed in 1990.
Shortly before that tragedy, Linda had been cast in a regular role on Evening Shade¬¬, a sitcom that ran for four years from 1990 through 1994. After Ken’s death, she made her home in Laurel Canyon. In 1993, while visiting Ken’s parent’s home in Laguna Beach, Linda met Chris Farley, their next-door neighbor. Linda and Chris were married in 1998. Linda took on her new roles as Chris’s spouse and stepmother to Chris’s two children, Margot and Brian, who were then teenagers, while remaining fully
engaged as a theater, film and television actor.
Linda achieved remarkable success and gained a stellar reputation as an actor, appearing on over forty television shows and several films. However, Linda’s true home and the place she most loved to perform was the live stage. She captivated audiences and had an enviable ability to fully embody a wide range of leading characters, from classic Shakespearean roles to the most modern, leaving no detail too trivial to execute to perfection.
Beginning in 1997, Linda became an integral player at South Coast Repertory Theater, eventually appearing in 23 plays. She also participated in developing new plays through readings and the annual Pacific Playwrights Festival and the Ojai Playwrights Conference. Linda also performed at major theater venues throughout the country, including New York, Chicago, Washington D.C., Boston, Berkeley, Baltimore, Seattle and the Berkshires. More information about her roles in TV, movies and stage productions can be found on the memorial website and broadwayworld.com.
The COVID pandemic curtailed not only her career but all live theater. Her final play, The Outgoing Tide, was staged at the North Coast Repertory Theater in the Summer of 2022.
Though her work was incredibly important to her and to the theater world, what Linda contributed most uniquely to all who knew her was her beautiful spirit. Linda not only always injected fun, warmth and laughter into
every room she entered, but she also made every person feel they were the most important person in the room, and Linda would do anything to make their life easier, richer, better, or just more fun. She could be silly, goofy, or intensely emotional, but always was pure, unadulterated, and inimitable Linda, a truly extraordinary treasure. Linda will be sorely missed by her audiences, her fellow professionals and her extended family. With her passing, the world lost a truly shining star. Linda is survived by her husband, Chris Farley; her stepchildren, Margot Farley Stuart (Sean) and Brian Farley; her grandchildren, Baillie, Avery, and Weston Stuart, and Lia Farley; her brother, Matt Gehringer (Su Metzel), and her sister, Carole Whitney (Mike), and her niece Ava (Brennan Hutson), nephews, Jackson Gehringer and Jake Whitney and grand-niece, Lucy Hutson. She was predeceased by her mother, Beata Maria Gehringer (nee Karabees), father, Charles K. Gehringer, Sr., brother, Charles (Charley) Gehringer, Jr., and sister-inlaw, Nancy Gehringer (nee Richter), and her first husband, Kenneth Bryant. There will be a Celebration of Life in Laguna Beach for friends, both personal and professional, and extended family. Details to come. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in Linda’s memory to South Coast Repertory or another theater of your choice. To visit her tribute: Linda’s Tribute Page: mccormickandson.com/ obituary/linda-gehringer.
By LB Indy Staff
In a collaborative effort to keep Laguna Beach’s parks and beaches looking spotless, the Landscape Maintenance Division of the Public Works & Utilities Department has partnered with the Surf & Sand Resort to bolster park maintenance staff. Since Memorial Day, the Surf & Sand Resort has provided additional staff to volunteer and assist in maintaining some of Laguna Beach’s most cherished outdoor spaces.
The partnership was born out of the Surf & Sand Resort’s ongoing renovations, which temporarily left many of its employees without work. Instead of resorting to furloughs, the resort reached out to the city, offering their services at no cost. This initiative not only keeps the hotel staff employed but also enriches the maintenance of public areas.
“Our partnership with the Surf & Sand Resort has been a win/win for both sides,” said Reza Jafari, deputy director of Public Works. “We have been fortunate to be able to utilize extra staff from the Surf & Sand Resort to help keep our city parks and beaches looking clean.”
The extra help has primarily been deployed at Main Beach and Heisler
Park, two of the city’s most prominent parks. Their main tasks include weed removal, installing mulch in planters, sweeping excess sand from park pathways and staircases, and litter picking. This initiative, coordinated by Deputy Director Reza Jafari with daily supervision by Maintenance Lead Worker Chris Osuna, is expected to continue through the month of June.
By
fog rolls. sits heavy. bright wildflowers, like lanterns, reveal the path home
house wren’s bubbling trill claims its spot in this morning’s feathered orchestra
bush monkey flowers open to the sun, ready to share sweet nectar
walking up these hills, i’m slower than I once was. i see much more now
Cheryl is a resident of Laguna Beach and writes Haiku poems inspired by the local ora and fauna around her. She is also a certi ed EMDR psychotherapist and the creator of Birdsong and the Eco-Wonders BirdsongTV.
• 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
By LB Indy Staff
The vibrant art scene of Laguna Beach has been enriched by the breathtaking work of renowned artist Debbie Avoux, now proudly displayed at the Laguna Art-A-Fair 2024. The piece not only enhances the fair’s aesthetic appeal but also underscores the event’s commitment
to showcasing extraordinary talent from around the globe.
Avoux, a celebrated artist known for her vivid and emotionally resonant works, has once again captivated audiences with her latest creation. The mural, a blend of colors and intricate details, features vibrant green tropical leaves and birds in flight, including
a blue heron and white egrets, with a butterfly completing the scene.
Set against a dark background, the mural’s colors pop, creating a dynamic and immersive visual experience.
Rob Ross, President of the board of directors of Laguna Art-A-Fair, expressed his excitement about the MURAL, PAGE 20
Laguna. Compared to other cities, Laguna currently has the highest, with only Garden Grove (17%) and Anaheim (17%) higher. The council is proposing raising it 2%, making it 16%.
There was pushback from hotels in town — the general manager of the Ranch said they would fight this increase. With hotel occupancy rates at 70%, he felt this would erode occupancy even more as guests do look at total pricing. After being told tourists pay this tax, 62% of surveyed residents said they would approve this. In July, council will decide about raising only the TOT as a ballot measure. At a 2% increase, it is projected to raise $3.5 million.
Is $3.5 million enough?
Councilman Bob Whalen claimed it wouldn’t be with all the deferred-fordecades projects the town needs to get done: a new fire station in South Laguna, city buildings requiring seismic updates and wildfire mitigation. Curious that he is just now worrying about these things when he was behind the $26 million St. Catherine’s purchase, the $13 million Presbyterian church parking structure (that we would never own), and the $150 million proposed Laguna Canyon Road takeover for undergrounding – all the while neglecting the biggest problem of them all: fixing the sewer system. He has been on the council for almost 12 years, and in this election year, he’s only now worried about infrastructure.
What about reducing costs and finding efficiencies? According to Laguna Beach City Manager Dave Kiff, that would not be enough to cover what the council wants to do. Yet 60% of respondents agreed that “The city should spend the money it already gets more responsibly instead of trying to ask for more.”
The city can start by having each employee justify why they are necessary. Since 2000, city staff has grown 50% while the population has declined by almost 1,400 residents.
We should investigate outsourcing departments like landscaping, institute a hiring freeze and look closely at their procurement processes. Our financial audits have had significant defects for years and need an independent review. But most importantly, the council needs to fund the things that residents care about most. Forget acquiring Laguna Canyon Road, stop spending on new staff offices at St. Catherine’s, let the Promenade go and sell Ti Amo. Repair our roads and stop big projects. Fix what’s broken first, and stop asking for more money.
Michèle is a 21-year Laguna resident and actively follows Laguna politics. She is the Treasurer of Laguna Beach Sister Cities and is involved with the local arts scene. She can be reached at Michelemonda3@gmail.com.
notable Laguna Beach residents the students “met.”
The local actors entertained the students, chaperones, and teachers by opening a secret trap door on the original wooden floor and singing Jack Norworth’s famous lyrics, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.”
Cuprien, with an easel and brushes, painted a seascape in the rear yard while chatting to budding artists about the difference in the surrounding landscape of downtown circa 1912.
“We were honored to bring two nonprofit organizations together and work with talented director, Ella and actors to provide this to Laguna Beach students. A fun and memorable living history experience,” Laguna Beach Historical Society President Karen McGrew said.
amotor pilots are having way more fun than the rest of us. But at our expense! If you have to fly over our public space, do it the old-fashioned way – without an engine. Run and jump off a cliff, and then descend down gracefully with the wind, with thermals keeping you afloat. But no, in our lazy culture, someone decided to strap a noisy engine on their back and make the rest of us suffer! Why? Because it’s easier. But our beaches are sacred public spaces, with all of us enjoying them and respecting one another’s right to peace. So take your engine and shove it out to an open space where you can’t disturb anyone.
Here’s the thing: FAR 103 requires that ultralight vehicles must fly 2,000 feet above parks. Why? So parkgoers can enjoy the tranquility of nature. But isn’t our coast technically one giant beach park? Isn’t our protected coastline a marine park? Fishes have feelings too. And for God’s sake, if we care enough about noise to prohibit fireworks one day a year, don’t we have the will to contain it the other 364? Perhaps instead of appealing to the FAA to change their rules, we appeal to the Coastal Commission and have them officially designate our coastline one giant park. After all, their mission is to provide beach access to the public. But certainly not to drone out our enjoyment with preening paramotor pilots.
Billy is the Chief Experience Officer of La Vida Laguna, a silent adventure sports company that is human-powered and uses no engines. He can be reached at billy@lavidalaguna.com.
PACK
7/26 KEN GARCIA 7/27 BOB SCHNEIDER 7/28 BOBBY GRAY
8/1 CASH’D OUT (J ohnny C ash T ribu TE )
8/2 Beach Boy AL JARDINE
8/3 CUBENSIS ( g raTE ful D E a D T ribu TE )
8/4 u kul E l E 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 ynyr D s kynyr D , b a D C o ., ZZ T o P T ribu TE s )
9/12 GRAHAM BONNET PE rforming r ainbow , msg & a l C aT ra ZZ
9/13 RICHIE KOTZEN with Mark Daly 9/14 JOURNEY USA (J ourn E y T ribu TE )
9/15 BENISE: Fiesta!
9/19 THE MAN IN BLACK (J ohnny C ash T ribu TE )
9/22 JANE MONHEIT
9/25 ANA POPOVIC
9/27 DAVE MASON
10/3 ZEBRA
10/4 MIRAGE ( f l EET woo D m a C T ribu TE )
10/5 KIMBERLY PERRY (of The Band Perry)
10/6 DAVE HAUSE
10/10 HENRY KAPONO
10/11 HENRY KAPONO
10/12 PABLO CRUISE
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 ( a my w in E hous E T ribu TE )
11/8 COMMON SENSE
11/9 TYRONE WELLS
11/13 JOHN HIATT
11/15 RONSTADT REVIVAL
11/16 JOSHUA RADIN & RON POPE
11/22 SPACE ODDITY (D avi D b owi E T ribu TE )
11/23 RUFUS WAINWRIGHT
11/26 LEONID & FRIENDS (C hi C ago T ribu TE )
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
12/11 DAVID BENOIT
12/12 KY-MANI MARLEY
12/15 THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA
12/21 AMBROSIA Holiday show
12/29 L.A. GUNS
12/31 THE ENGLISH BEAT
1/24 GENE LOVES JEZEBEL / BOW WOW WOW
2/16 INCENDIO w / a r DE shir f arah ( of s T run Z & f arah )
1
As shown in the film, that was the same aim of Francis in teaching his children.
From the audience came a last probing question asked of Judson and Wood. Here is my paraphrase: Since the making of “The Living Sea” have you become more optimistic or pessimistic about the state of the oceans (and seemingly the planet)?
After a brief pause, Judson responded: “There is a lot coming at us. You don’t get things done if you’re a pessimist. Optimism is the most essential tool we have.” Wood seemed to nod in agreement—as did I.
Thanks to Greg and Barbara MacGillivray for your partnership in making “The Living Sea” and generously reprising it for our hometown audience on a memorable summer night.
Tom Osborne writes the environmental column, Green Light, for the Indy. With his wife, Ginger, he co-leads the Laguna chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby. tomosborne@cox.net.
PAGE 1
lineup for this year’s Festival of Arts,” said Christine Georgantas, director of exhibits and events.
Spotlight on the Music of Hope Blue Piano, in partnership with City of Hope Orange County. After its debut at South Coast Plaza, the City of Hope’s blue “Hope” piano will take center stage at the Festival, honoring those affected by cancer. This series will feature pianists Josh Nelson, John Proulx, Scott Wilkie, Bill Cantos and Althea Waites, and performances will take place on Saturdays from July 13 to Aug. 10.
Another new event is a one-nightonly performance of Pacific Opera Project’s “The Mikado,” on Saturday, Aug. 17. Known for its innovative and whimsical productions, Pacific Opera Project will bring Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular operetta to life
with Harajuku-inspired costumes and a reworked libretto.
During its two-month summer season, audiences can enjoy daily live concerts and weekly music series on select days.
On Mondays from July 8 to Aug. 26, sway to the sounds of live music with the Americana Music Series. This series showcases Southern California’s most talented Americana musicians, blending folk, country, blues, and bluegrass, with highlights including performances by Shawn Jones, Buzz Campbell and the Heartaches and The Joni Mitchell Project with Kiki Ebsen.
On Thursday nights from July 11 to Aug. 29, the Festival will host the Art, Jazz, Wine & Chocolate series (sponsored by Charles Schwab and Cambria Estate Winery). Indulge in specially selected wines paired with gourmet chocolates (additional fee applies) while enjoying soulful jazz performances by artists like Téka, The New Jet Set, Spencer Day, and the Scott Wilkie Band.
Kick off the weekend at the Festival of Arts on Fridays from July 12 to Aug. 30 to celebrate legendary music icons with the Tremendous Tributes Music Series, featuring Southern California’s best tribute bands, including The Cream of Clapton Band, The Eagles Allstars, and Mad Dogs and the Englishman. On Saturday afternoons at 1 p.m. from July 6 to Aug. 17 enjoy Concerts on the Green with award-winning musicians like Greg Adams and East Bay Soul, Grace Kelly, and Poncho Sanchez. Sunday nights from July 7 to Aug. 25 are dedicated to extraordinary singers in the Wow...That Girl Can Sing! Music Series featuring Melanie Taylor, Paris Chansons, Lia Booth, and Josie James.
Performances are nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. (excluding Aug. 24 for a private ticketed event), and on select Sundays at 12 p.m. Concerts are free with Festival admission, with limited “nightclub” seating in a reserved section available for an additional fee.
PAGE 7
but they don’t have time to do it right. This year, the park is better, but there are still grassy weeds throughout that have been allowed to go to seed. The pruners haven’t been there yet, and I hope they will respect the natural forms of the shrubbery and we won’t have sheared balls. The play equipment has needed repair for years, but the answer is to replace it—$400,000 has been budgeted!
Replacement parts from the manufacturer should be pursued at a much lower cost.
Glenneyre Street Parking Garage is much more in the public view, another example of hedge pruners gone awry. The original planting featured Boston ivy and lavender trumpet vines on the brick walls and shrubs of various heights in informal espaliers in front. The city removed all the vines when structural issues were addressed, but despite promises to replant them, it was never done. All the shrubs along Glenneyre have been uniformly buzz-cut, losing the opportunity to show their gracefulness and uniqueness. These relatively minor fixes can make a big difference in the impression conveyed by the landscape—we should give the impression of caring both for the plants themselves and for those who experience the landscaping daily or maybe only once in a lifetime.
We need to do better. If more staff, a larger landscape maintenance budget, and detailed training are needed, we need to provide them. Laguna Beach is known for its beauty, and it should be a high priority throughout our city.
Ann Christoph is a landscape architect who, o en with partners, designed Village Green, Alta Laguna Park, Bluebird Park, the Glenneyre St. Parking Structure, South Laguna medians and South Laguna Community Garden Park. She is also a former councilmember, mayor, and board member of Village Laguna and South Laguna Civic Association.
16
new addition.
“Debbie Avoux’s mural is a spectacular addition to this year’s exhibition,” he said. “It perfectly embodies the spirit of Laguna Art-AFair and our dedication to presenting art that inspires and moves people. We are thrilled to have her work featured prominently at our event.”
Avoux has established herself as a significant figure in the contemporary art world. Her work is characterized by a deep connection to nature, vibrant color palettes, and an ability to evoke profound emotional responses from viewers. Avoux’s murals are celebrated for their dynamic compositions and the way they transform spaces, infusing them with life and energy.
Avoux’s artistic journey is marked by versatility and a passion for creativity. She uses high-quality acrylic paints for her murals, ensuring durability and vibrancy. Her technique involves layering colors to create depth and texture, bringing her subjects to life in a way that resonates deeply with viewers. Avoux’s commitment to excellence is evident in every brushstroke, making her murals not just artworks but experiences.
This year’s fair promises to be an extraordinary showcase of talent, featuring over 115 artists from various disciplines and geographies. From traditional paintings to cutting-edge contemporary pieces, the event is a celebration of artistic diversity and excellence. Visitors can expect to see a wide array of artworks, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, mixed media, and more. Additionally, three-dimensional art forms such as jewelry, ceramics, and sculptures will also be on display, providing a comprehensive art experience.
The Laguna Art-A-Fair 2024 will be open to the public June 28 through Sept. 1 with early bird tickets on sale now at art-a-fair.com for a reduced price.
or Recruiter at alison.johnson@aus.com
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