Fair Game
By TOM JOHNSON
California Cool ‘Bash’ raises some $450,000 for Laguna Art Museum
The California Cool Art Auction, Benefit & Bash, “a uniquely California experience supporting Laguna Art Museum,” that was held on Saturday, March 4, ended up raising $450,000. The evening’s atmosphere included California-themed libations and appetizers and live entertainment provided by Lee Rocker of the Stray Cats, along with the contributing artists and art lovers alike.
The 41st Annual California Cool Art actually took place from February 17 up to March 4, with their art auction running online.
If you feel like you missed out, or want to take another look, there are 40 art lots remaining still available for purchase. These works are offered at the auction’s minimum bid price of 50% of the full value. You may take a look here.
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Something big to note, Promenade concepts will be shared next Thursday, March 23 at the city’s in-person Public Workshop at the Laguna Beach Community and Susi Q Center from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Go to www.lagunabeachcity.net/promenade.
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Next Thursday, March 23, the Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education will hold a Study Session to allow staff to present proposed updates to the facilities master plan.
Staff will present a plan that updates the high school and district office facilities into community-integrated school buildings to meet the current and future needs of all students and expand recreational opportunities for the community.
The proposed projects include a unified student counseling center at the high school, a pool, tennis facilities and a parking structure.
I’m excited to find out more.
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On Tuesday this week, Laguna Beach High School held its Celebration of the Arts, an annual showcase of student visual and performing arts talent. The community then came out and enjoyed the artwork on display and many performances offered throughout the evening.
As part of this, LBHS teacher Mr. Wittcop’s design class collaborated with art students who were tasked with creating a leisure T-shirt design for the Laguna Beach Fire Department.
They got a number of great designs, but in the end, ninth-grader Brighton’s design was selected.
Congratulations…and good for her.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
Laguna Beach High School freshman Brighton stands by the wall of art pieces submitted that were considered for a Laguna Beach Fire Department leisure T-shirt
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Courtesy of LBUSD
Brighton’s selected work up-close
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Do you follow the Michelin Guide? Of course their guides feature write-ups of select restaurants, including short summaries, that are then awarded stars by a sort of secret shopper who anonymously comes in to dine and then submits their thoughts.
It’s certainly something restaurants and their chefs want to be included in.
Earlier this month, after this “anonymous shopper” or diner as is the case here reported back, obviously impressed, Selanne Steak Tavern, here in Laguna Beach, was one of six new restaurants added this year.
It’s big stuff!
Here’s what the guide says: “Once a home, this historic setting on Pacific Coast Highway now houses a winning steakhouse. Inside, a variety of settings welcome guests, ranging from the upstairs Loft, the bistro-style Wine Library, the handsome Tavern, or outside on the Veranda or Sunset Terrace. The buzzy bar is also a favorite perch for a crowd that’s both relaxed and regulars.
“Steak is revered in this place and it lives up to its promise with tender, well-marbled meat, but the kitchen ratchets it up with expert cooking (and dousing it in butter never hurts). Thick seared mushrooms in a Madeira reduction are a nice touch and creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a must, but don’t monkey around when it comes to dessert – Selanne’s monkey bread can’t be missed.”
Make your reservations early!
Congrats to Teemu (Selanne) and to his business partner Kevin Pratt.
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Laguna Playhouse has announced its 2023-2024 Season of Shows.
Here’s the schedule and scenarios provided by the Playhouse:
2 Pianos, 4 Hands (July 5-23), “not only hits all the right notes, but tickles the ivories and your funny bone too”; followed by “the legendary classic play turned iconic film, “The Rainmaker (September 20-October 8); then, “a delightful new screwball comedy,” The Angel Next Door (October 18-November 5); before they “head to Harlem to celebrate the extraordinary music of Fats Waller with the Tony Award-winning musical,” Ain’t Misbehavin’ (January 24-February 11, 2024); followed by “the power and resilience of the human spirit with the moving family drama,” A Shayna Maidel (March 13-31, 2024); next, a “wonderful production of Moliere’s classic” Tarttuffe (April 17-May 5, 2024) and, finally, they complete the season with “one of the great whodunit mysteries of our time,” Holmes and Watson (May 29-June 16).
Interim Artistic Director David Ellenstein said, “This is truly an exceptional season of plays and musicals as we head into our second century. Our subscribers and audiences are going to be moved, inspired, thrilled, engaged and mesmerized by the seven theatrical events we have planned for them over the coming year!”
Season subscriptions will go on sale this Tuesday, March 21. The Seven-Play Season Tickets can be purchased online at www.lagunaplayhouse.com or by calling 949.497.ARTS (2787).
Single tickets go on sale Monday, May 15.
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Don’t forget, across town is the partnership between Sherman Library & Gardens and Laguna Art Museum presenting Unseen Ties: The Visual Collection of Sherman Library & Gardens, bringing this legendary collection out of the library for the first time.
Each artwork in Sherman Library’s collection is “an opportunity to make connections between past and present, tell a tale of local lore and notoriety and see the ties that weave California’s coastal and artistic communities together. Unseen Ties correlates the culture of Southern California with its storied history of art collecting, featuring artists Rex Brandt, Phil Dike, Anna Althea Hills, Clarence Hinkle, Edgar Payne and William Wendt.”
The exhibition will be on view until June 4.
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Finally, 6-year-olds from Montessori School of Laguna Beach recently visited and toured City Hall. They got to meet with Mayor Pro Tem Sue Kempf, and visit the Fire and Police departments.
And although no surveys were taken, what do you think was the most popular subject that night when the kids were around their dinner tables talking about the day?
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Courtesy of City of Laguna Beach
Montessori School of Laguna Beach 6-year-olds greet and show their love for Cooper, the city’s emotional support dog
If you said Cooper, the 1 1/2-year-old Black Lab Laguna Beach Police Support Services dog, go to the head of the class!
I didn’t see them smiling and hugging the Mayor Pro Tem like that!
Commission OKs Mozambique plans for rooftop ADA bathroom, relocation of bar for ocean views
By SARA HALL
The Planning Commission this week approved remodel plans for Mozambique, including adding an ADA accessible bathroom on the rooftop level and relocating the bar so guests have ocean views.
Commissioners voted 4-0 (Commissioner Steve Kellenberg was absent) in favor of a conditional use permit and design review for interior and exterior modifications to the restaurant located at 1710 and 1740 South Coast Highway and 245 Agate Street.
Modifications include a new window system at the existing second floor patio area and installation of sound attenuation measures, an interior remodel to relocate bar and change floor plan and seating layout, emergency exiting deck pathway and door improvements, addition of an accessible restroom on the roof deck (65 square feet), roof material change, solatubes, rooftop mechanical equipment and associated screening, and to change the previously approved location for off-site parking. The action also included cleaning up some of the outdated language in the previously approved CUP conditions.
The additions are minor and the most notable changes are inside and help with the overall flow, said Commissioner Susan McLintock Whitin.
“It’s about time to renovate the interior here. You need to do this kind of work every 10 years or so just to keep your building functioning,” Whitin said. “It does need an upgrade and I think it’s going to be, really, a nice entertainment space and it will complement what’s already been done up on the roof deck.”
The ADA bathroom on the third floor is a “great addition” not just for people in wheelchairs but just for everyone else who’s out enjoying the roof deck, she added.
And the pathway and door improvements make a lot of sense, Whitin said, not just for emergency exiting for but just for general circulation on the third floor.
It’s definitely an improvement, agreed Commission Chair Jorg Dubin.
“The flow is going to be better. The bar area will be better for not only patrons, but the musicians. And the addition of the rooftop bathroom is a good idea for the obvious reasons, including people who have difficulty with stairs,” he said.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
The Planning Commission this week approved exterior and interior modifications for Mozambique
The three properties are under common ownership and have a combined area of approximately 22,500 square feet, The site was originally established in 1961 as a restaurant. On Jan. 12, 2005, the Planning Commission approved a CUP which permitted the establishment of a new restaurant (Mozambique) with alcoholic beverage service, live entertainment and valet parking.
A key part of the plans is the addition of an accessible restroom at the rooftop deck.
The new 65 square-foot accessible restroom is not considered an intensification of use requiring additional parking because the applicant is also proposing to remove an equivalent amount of existing restaurant gross floor area at the first floor to offset the proposed restroom, explained Principal Planner Wendy Jung.
The roof deck bathroom was brought forward because guests who use the elevator to get to the top level, including people in wheelchairs or who have a difficult time with their mobility, currently have to go all the way back down to use the bathroom, added architect for the project Marshall Ininns.
They also plan to remove the upstairs office and move it downstairs, which will create a hall for easy access to the downstairs bathrooms so people don’t have to go through the crowded bar area, Ininns said.
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Lagunatics celebrates “30 years of Yucks” with an anniversary show that’s hilarious, nostalgic and quintessentially Laguna
By MARRIE STONE
Photos by Jeff Rovner
This story is a part of our Arts section. Visit www.stunewslaguna.com/arts for more arts stories as well as our arts calendars.
If you can’t laugh at yourself, life is going to seem a whole lot longer than you’d like. –Natalie Portman
Few things take the sting out of nasty local politics, impossible parking, rude tourists and sewage spills like humor. Fortunately, we live in a town that loves to laugh – and never harder than when it’s laughing at itself. Lagunatics founder and director Bree Burgess Rosen has been on hand for 30 years to show us how.
The annual parody show was the brainchild of Burgess Rosen in the early ‘90s. Since then, she and her team of creatives have sought out the town’s many Achilles heels and whacked away. They’ve remastered more than 400 songs with side-splitting lyrics over the course of those decades. “It’s comedy therapy,” Burgess Rosen said. “Not a cure for cancer, but pretty close.”
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Lagunatics performing “All That Beach” (a take-off on “All That Jazz”) at the 30th anniversary show now on stage at the Forum Theatre through March 26
Winnowing those 400 songs down to 20 for their anniversary show was no easy feat. Highlights include our fire-prevention goats, the beloved City Hall peppertree, those overfed sea lions at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC) and the revenue-rich Montage Resort, to name just a few. “I have great memories of doing all these songs the first time around,” Burgess Rosen said. “With friends that have moved on and some who have passed, it’s bittersweet. But [we’re making] new memories with this 30th anniversary. After all, I’m doing this crazy thing about my favorite town and with some of my favorite people on the planet. That’s pretty sweet.”
Like every good revival, Lagunatics called back old cast members of yore to perform the numbers they were once famous for back in the day. With a cast numbering nearly two dozen, wearing costumes as zany as the lyrics, they dance, prance and sashay across the stage, making their audiences remember why we all love living here, warts and all.
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Many former Lagunatics cast members returned for the anniversary show, dusting off their costumes and vocal chords to revive their greatest hits
“If you’re local, it’s a must see because we’re laughing at everything that makes Laguna Laguna,” said Lynn Epstein, who began with Lagunatics in 2004 and performed with them for nine years. “The comedy in the show is brilliant. Whether it’s delivered through cleverly written songs, funny dance steps or costumes, everyone is entertained.”
Taking comedic aim at its theatrical competition, the “celebrated cultural cash cow” known as the Pageant of the Masters, “In the Nude” “stripped away the Pageant’s veneer of respectability to uncover the naked truth behind its success.” A trio of marble statues (played by Bridget English, Susan Geiser and Yvonne Browning) hold binoculars to zoom in on the titillating scenes. “It’s so artistic and voyeuristic!”
Speaking of cash cows, Bobby Pickett’s “Monster Mash” is recast as “Montage Cash,” with witty (and accurate) lyrics like, “The City Council had come to this conclusion: our tax base was going to get a big infusion.” Wearing a rhinestone-embellished tuxedo and holding a martini glass, Steve McIntosh brought the perfect booming voice to his role.
McIntosh first performed in the show in 2007 and remained in Lagunatics until 2014 (though he appeared on the No Square Theatre stage in other productions since). “It’s much like riding a bike,” he said. “When you get to the theater, it all comes back to you.”
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Music Director Roxanna Ward brought down the house with her comedy routines and piano improvs. “I never thought I’d grow a hair…there,” she quipped before busting out “Are You Older Tonight?” (a spoof on Roy Turk’s and Lou Handman’s “Are You Lonesome Tonight?”)
While the stage may feel the same, bodies change with time. “I can tell you, it’s a lot tougher both physically and mentally being well into one’s 60s than in the 40s,” McIntosh said. “The choreography is a tough one to figure out if you don’t do it often. Believe me, the aches have shown up and I’ve got a couple of braces that are now part of my costume underwear!”
Epstein may have felt the passage of time, as well. “I asked Bree, ‘Did you deliberately put me in every dance number that’s more than four minutes?’ My cardiovascular abilities have improved!”
“There are a lot of moving parts to a show like this,” McIntosh said. “Costume changes, set movements, props, curtains, entrances and exits. And did I mention [the] costume changes? There is nothing crazier than trying to make a two-minute costume change when you have a clothes rack with dozens of costumes on it in a small space with 20 other performers. It is basically controlled chaos. It’s part of the backstage ballet. Eventually you figure out everyone’s patterns of movement, so you know what lurks behind a corner when rushing to get in place for the next number. Nothing is more frightening than turning a corner backstage in the dark and coming face to face with a sea lion!”
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Annual “Celebration of the Arts” showcased LBUSD student visual and performing arts talent
Photos by Mary Hurlbut
On Tuesday, March 14, the Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) invited the community to a “Celebration of the Arts,” its annual showcase of student visual and performing arts talent at Laguna Beach High School.
Students in grades K-12 participated in the arts festival to showcase their work across many artistic disciplines. The event featured live performances from students in theater, choir, wind and string ensembles, the jazz band and dance. The evening also included an art exposition, sale, digital art and film exhibit.
Performances began at 6 p.m. in the Artists Theater and continued throughout the event as audiences visited different stations on the high school campus to connect with community partners, including the Laguna College of Art + Design, Laguna Art Museum, Festival of the Arts, No Square Theatre and Coast Film & Music Festival.
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LBHS will be performing the musical “Mamma Mia!” at the end of March
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A graduating senior’s art display
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3D wooden masks
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One of the community tables was No Square Theatre promoting their summer show with local youth
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Let’s dance! (L-R) Rachel Blanca, Chase Benson, Tomato Davis, Amanda Nguyen and Christina Pai
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Lisa Cheng and Archer Joseph warming up in the band room
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The baked goods fundraiser will benefit LBHS Theater and Thurston Middle School
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Parents endured the rain to come out and support the student arts showcase
Artist Taylor Dean Harrison’s Polymery installed outside City Hall during dedication ceremony
Photos by Mary Hurlbut
The City of Laguna Beach Arts Commission is presenting the temporary sculpture installation Polymery by artist Taylor Dean Harrison. The sculpture, consisting of two pieces, was installed outside City Hall during a dedication on Wednesday, March 15 at 5 p.m., adding to previous sculpture experiences presented in Downtown Laguna Beach. Present at the dedication were members from city council and the arts commission.
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Artist Taylor Dean Harrison with Chair of the Arts Commission Adam Schwerner at the City Hall dedication ceremony for the installation of Harrison’s mixed-media sculpture “Polymery”
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(L-R) Laguna Beach Councilmember Mark Orgill, Mayor Pro Tem Sue Kempf, Taylor Dean Harrison and Councilmember Alex Rounaghi gather in front of “Polymery”
Harrison, a California sculptor, grew up in nearby San Clemente. He attended UC Berkeley, where he played basketball, until an injury made him look at career alternatives. He now works in Sonoma County. According to Harrison, “This is a coming home for me; I am so excited to have my work in the city I grew up visiting.”
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Taylor Dean Harrison shares a bit about his artwork with attendees
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Harrison’s “Polymery” will be a temporary art installation at City Hall for three months
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A closeup of “Polymery”
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“Polymery” should be viewed during the nighttime to truly capture its shadows and patterns
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Attendees congregate around Adam Schwerner at City Hall for the dedication and installation of “Polymery”
Harrison describes his work as immersive installations and said, “I try to tap into the endless ‘possible universes’ that can be created with art. I use this as a way to remind myself of the potentiality of my own life. I hope to make artwork that nudges viewers, and myself, to find that light amongst our mental and physical struggles. To me, a moment of awe can be a powerful salve.”
Polymery is characteristic of having many parts, working together to create a single effect, as seen in this mixed-media installation. The sculptures and the lighting offer an opportunity to interact with the installation shadows of the lighting and patterns both sculptures create, so this artwork deserves to be viewed at night.
The sculptures will be on exhibit for three months.
This exhibition has been facilitated with visual art producers Building 180, the artist, and funded through the Laguna Beach Tourism Marketing District and the City of Laguna Beach.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach hosted first responder golf tournament, dinner reception
In appreciation of the unparalleled excellence of both the Laguna Beach Police and Fire Associations, The Ranch at Laguna Beach hosted their second annual golf tournament and dinner reception on Monday, March 13, to showcase gratitude for the selfless commitment and ongoing support of local first responders.
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Photos courtesy of The Ranch at Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach first responders from the fire and police associations participated in a Best Ball competition at The Ranch at Laguna Beach. Here they are gathered on the Ben Brown course, located in the picturesque canyon.
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Team Police took home the trophy this year, after Team Fire won in 2022
The resort was honored to welcome 24 first responders (14 firefighters and 10 police officers) for a fun, Laguna-style day of canyon golf which was then followed by a barbecue in the ballroom, as a thank you from the residents of Laguna Beach with 60 people in attendance, including family and friends. Friendly rivalry and a good amount of smack talk was also in attendance, as first responders competed in the event. And although last year the fire department won, it’s the police department that came out winning this year!
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A member of Team Police watches his shot head down the fairway on the Par 4 5th hole
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Is this member of Team Fire’s lucky red ball going to find the hole on the Par 4 3rd hole?
The day’s festivities:
The event took place at Ben Brown’s – the only golf course in Laguna Beach – at 2:30 p.m. Situated in the Aliso and Wood Canyons, the nine-hole course offered the ultimate playing experience with stunning views and elevation changes on each fairway. First responders were invited to participate in a two-person scramble involving a team score. Three clubs were recommended throughout the tournament, and if played barefoot, golfers received a mulligan.
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Team Fire on the Par 4 9th green earned a mulligan for playing shoeless
Following the golf tournament, The Ranch at Laguna Beach hosted a barbecue dinner reception at 5 p.m. for first responders located in the resort’s ballroom. The menu featured a Santa Maria Tri Tip with Fresno chimichurri, peach BBQ ribs, sweet chili glazed sea bass, and of course, baked mac & cheese and butter-braised corn on the cob. The menu focused on locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Musician Zach Churchill provided the entertainment. The perfect ending to a great day of golf and camaraderie.
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The golfers worked up an appetite for these tasty peach barbecue ribs
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Players stopped along the buffet line for this chopped salad with all the fixings
For more information on The Ranch at Laguna Beach, visit www.theranchlb.com.
LBHS Sophomore Sebastian Lambrinos earns Eagle Scout rank, Scouts BSA’s highest honor
Sebastian Lambrinos, a member of Troop 35 and resident of Laguna Beach, earned the rank of Eagle Scout along with a Bronze Eagle Palm, further recognition for completing six additional merit badges beyond the required 21. Since its establishment in 1911, only one percent of Scouts in the program have attained this combined achievement.
While holding various positions of responsibility from Instructor to Senior Patrol Leader, earning a National Outdoor Award and demonstrating proficiency in a wide range of skills, Lambrinos was the first Boy Scout in the troop to initiate and receive three STEM Nova Awards focused on his interest in science, technology and engineering. During his research, he observed the construction of NASA’s Perseverance Rover at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena and his name was included on an etched microchip affixed to the rover before its mission to Mars. In addition, he was a Maker Faire participant in the Bay Area, San Diego and Los Angeles.
Courtesy of the Lambrinos family
Sebastian Lambrinos
For his Eagle project, he replaced a weathered bench with one made of Brazilian Ipe along a coastal bluff trail. It was only natural this community service benefited Crystal Cove State Park after having previously volunteered more than 250 hours of his time, mostly towards local beach cleanups, habitat restoration and trail stewardship events. The project included planning, management and leading 12 youth and adults to remove, repair, reweld and repaint the original damaged frame as well as to cut, sand and stain the more durable hardwood before assembly. Many locals have expressed their appreciation for his sustainable effort which once again provides a rest stop to take-in amazing ocean views.
The project was made possible by generous donations from Ganahl Lumber, Home Depot, Whole Foods and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5868.
Lambrinos wishes to thank the many dedicated past and present Troop 35 adult volunteers and fellow Scouts for their support over the years.
LAM’s 41st Annual California Cool Art Auction, Benefit & Bash raises more than $450,000
By DIANNE RUSSELL
Laguna Art Museum’s 41st Annual California Cool Art Auction, Benefit & Bash was a smashing success. Through the course of their online auction and live benefit, art lovers helped raise more than $450,000 toward LAM’s mission of enlightening and engaging people of all ages through art that embodies and preserves the California experience.
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Photos courtesy of Laguna Art Museum
LAM’s 41st Annual California Cool Art Auction, Benefit & Bash was held on Saturday, March 4 and the museum was jam-packed with passionate art aficionados
It was a standing-room only event, with a line of attendees (that stretched all the way out to the sidewalk), who were eagerly waiting to register for the auction and join the festivities. Although it was titled “California Cool,” the atmosphere was electric as guests mingled, Champagne glasses in hand, going from room to room to view the art. The auction featured works by California artists and the bidding started online on February 18.
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(L-R) Kathleen McNamee, Carol Dunstan, California Cool Art Auction Artist (CCAAA) Kelly Berg, LAM Executive Director Julie Perlin Lee and CCAAA Andy Moses
More than 145 prominent California artists were featured, including Lita Albuquerque, Charles Arnoldi, Billy Al Bengston, Kelly Berg, Alex Couwenberg, Shepard Fairey, Joe Goode, David Ligare, Jean Lowe, Andy Moses, Gwynn Murrill, Fabia Panjarian, Ruth Pastine, Astrid Preston, Ed Ruscha, Fred Tomaselli and Beth Waldman.
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(L-R) LAM Trustee Greg MacGillivray with Harley and Kaira Rouda
The illustrious event returned as a reimagined celebration of the best of California arts, lifestyle and culture, with proceeds supporting an exciting period of growth for the museum.
Attendees enjoyed California-themed libations and appetizers along with live entertainment by Lee Rocker of the Stray Cats. Artists and art lovers alike had a rockin’ good time.
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Julie Perlin Lee and the California Cool Art Auction crowd
Laguna Art Museum’s California Cool Art Auction, Benefit & Bash supports Laguna Art Museum’s mission through the generosity of the participating artists and attendees. Donating $800,00 in artwork, these artists have shown their love and support of Laguna Art Museum as a leading arts organization in Southern California and the museum’s mission.
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Lee Rocker band
–Event Sponsors:
Gold Sponsor: Betsy and Gary Jenkins, John Moran Auctioneers & Appraisers, and Laura and Louis Rohl.
Benefactor Sponsor: Anonymous, Jane and Joe Hanauer, and Jan and Ken Kaplan.
Patron Sponsor: Wendy Aird.
Host Committee: Tiare and Patrick Meegan, Emil and Michèle Monda, Jennifer Yelland and Stephen Shirley.
In-Kind Sponsor: West Coast Event Productions, Brite Ideas AV, Randy Higbee Framing and UPS Corona del Mar.
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Jeff Moran, John Moran Auctioneers & Appraisers, CCAA Sponsors
Laguna Art Museum exists to engage and enlighten people of all ages through art that embodies and preserves the California experience. Laguna Art Museum presents exhibitions relevant to California art and artists throughout the year and is home to the annual Art & Nature Festival celebrating the museum’s unique relationship to the environment.
Bidders can look forward to seeing their contributions manifested in LAM’s exhibitions, public programming and educational outreach.
LAM is located at 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach.
For more information about LAM, go to www.lagunaartmuseum.org.
Bringing wildlife to the streets: Artist to discuss process of creating natural sculptures in upcoming LOCA Art Talks
By THERESA KEEGAN
This story is a part of our Arts section. Visit www.stunewslaguna.com/arts for more arts stories as well as our arts calendars.
If you’re walking around Laguna and suddenly feel you’re submerged under sea, chances are you’re walking past a Casey Parlette sculpture.
From beautiful kelp seaweed adorning the back of a bench to a bronze octopus overseeing the walkway by Diver’s Cove, his ability to bring the ocean onto land is unparalleled.
“Most of my work is wildlife inspired,” said Parlette. “And around here, generally there’s a lot more interest in the marine life because we’re along the coast.”
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Photos courtesy of Casey Parlette
Creating an authentic sense of movement is a trademark of sculptor Casey Parlette, seen here with his piece “Lifted Spirits”
Keeping history alive
Although he’s always been creative, Parlette’s route to becoming a professional sculptor was circuitous, including a degree in anthropology from UCLA and stints as a commercial diver and professional lifeguard. Now known for his many public sculptures, as well as private commissions, Parlette’s artistic process and inspirations are the focus of an upcoming LOCA Art Talks on March 22.
“I was always drawn to making stuff,” he said, starting with a pocketknife in childhood that he used to carve wooden items. Later, on his days off from lifeguarding, he would visit an artist who worked in metal and blacksmithing.
“I just went and hung out and worked in his shop,” recalled Parlette. “I learned a lot about metal working – it opens your eyes to what’s possible. And as you do these things, you become more proficient. It just sort of expands and grows.”
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Learning what happens in an artist’s studio will be part of the LOCA Art Talks presentation by Casey Parlette
Learning the possibilities of many mediums
As a person who uses multiple media, including wood, metal and stone, he needed to master a variety of skills.
“One of the things that’s important to understand is everything that goes into making a piece of art,” Parlette said. And developing and conceptualizing a piece is as much of the artistic process as the finished sculpture. He’ll explain, during his talk, the unique set of opportunities and challenges in creating public art. Knowing the back story behind the pieces will add a level of appreciation for not only artists, but also for folks who walk past the sculpture.
“I’ll show how all these pieces come together – how the concept sketch relates to the actual piece – and how it evolves as it goes – the trial and error of some of these things.”
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The octopus sculpture in Heisler Park is one of the more popular public art pieces created by Casey Parlette
Parlette mentioned Strand of Life and Tidepool Kraken, the bench and octopus sculptures, on the north end of Heisler Park, overlooking Diver’s Cove, as examples of modifying an art piece. When the bench was originally planned, the area opened up, and then there was room to place another element, and he opted for the octopus. Ironically, that is often what people comment on, mostly because of its realistic capturing of movement.
“I think it’s really important, with wildlife or human form or whatever it is, to understand the anatomy of all this, but if you’re capturing life, you capture the movement,” said Parlette. “That requires getting out, spending time in that environment and seeing these things move.” As a diver he knows that as an octopus moves it unfurls, it doesn’t reach. And so his sculptures reflect that. The same knowledge is reflected in his turtle, shark and seaweed sculptures, as well as the many insects, beetles and reptiles he’s created over the years.
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Custom violin built by Stephen Davy finds a home with LBHS freshman Archer Joseph
By DIANNE RUSSELL
Stephen Davy, owner of Stephen R. Davy Violins, spent the pandemic building a custom violin for a fortunate recipient, and Laguna Beach High School freshman Archer Joseph has just been named the beneficiary of that gift.
It all started when Davy received an art grant for $5,000 – funded by the Wayne Peterson Fund – from the City of Laguna Beach Arts Commission to build a custom violin so that it could be gifted to a local Laguna student or player. This was among the many donations made by the Wayne Peterson Fund of the Laguna Beach Community Foundation.
“I am very happy that the violin found a home,” Davy said. “I was inspired by a violin previously owned by Australian-American violinist Fritz Kreisler which is in a curation at the Library of Congress in Washington D.C.”
The instrument most closely associated with Kreisler is the 1733 Guarneri ‘del Gesù’. When Kreisler donated the ‘del Gesù’ to the library in 1952, Rembert Wurlitzer wrote that the violin was “possibly the finest concert violin in existence.”
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Photos courtesy of Stephen Davy
Recipient Archer Joseph (on left) with Stephen Davy
In an October 2021 interview with Stu News, Davy said, “I am interested in gifting it to help inspire a musical student to pursue music. The recipient would need to have some form of connection to Laguna or lived in Laguna and has moved to college. We prefer an intermediate to skilled level young player. It was a great thing what the Arts Commission did, and I hope to get the violin to the right person. I look forward to who that might be.”
Joseph was selected by Jeremy Chung, Instrumental Music Director at Laguna Beach High School who said, “Archer was chosen because he’s an outstanding student and musician. Plus being a 9th grader, he will get to use the instrument for the next four years of high school.”
During COVID, Cultural Arts Manager Siân Poeschl developed a proposal for a grant program for Laguna Beach artists to return to creative work. Poeschl shared the concept with the Laguna Beach Community Foundation, who has undertaken great work and had supported the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. A donation of $100,000 was awarded to the City of Laguna Beach, made possible by a gift from the Wayne Peterson Fund of the Laguna Beach Community Foundation, to support Laguna Beach artists. The grant program was unanimously supported by the City Council and Arts Commission.
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Davy with the violin in 2021
“It took several months,” Davy said. “It’s a long process that can’t be rushed, especially in later stages.”
Stephen R. Davy Violins specializes in the sales, restoration and repair of fine bowed instruments as well as bow re-hair, rentals, accessories and adjustment. They also provide rental instruments supporting school music programs in the Southern California area.
Davy studied violin making with Italian luthier Albert Moglie, a master violin maker and the curator for more than 50 years of the Stradivarius instruments at the Smithsonian Institution, specializing in fine bow re-hair and personal adjustment appointments for optimum sound quality. Davy credits his mentors Harry Duffy, Karl Roy, Albert Moglie and Lynn Hannings.
Stephen R. Davy Violins is located at 31662 S. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach.
For more information on Stephen R. Davy Violins, go to www.davy-violins.com.
Tickets are selling out fast to Susi Q’s “Evening with an Author” featuring Susan Straight
Tickets are selling out fast for an “An Evening with an Author,” featuring renowned novelist Susan Straight at the nonprofit Susi Q Center. The event takes place on Wednesday, March 29 from 5-7 p.m., with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. for attendees who would like to network while sipping wine and enjoying light hors d’oeuvres prior to the program.
Straight’s most recent best-seller, Mecca, is included in the $25 cost of the program.
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Novelist Susan Straight
Esteemed arts columnist, published short-story writer and podcaster Marrie Stone will be in conversation with Straight, who is renowned for her entertaining and insightful novels portraying the life and times of Southern California’s ethnically mixed communities.
The event is the first of a series of “Evenings with an Author” planned for the Susi Q. Author Janelle Brown is slated for June 6 and novelist Lisa See will be featured on September 13.
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Photo by Jeff Rovner
Straight will be in conversation with Marrie Stone
“We like to think of the Susi Q as the place where the generations meet,” said Nadia Babayi, executive director, “and this event is a good example of programming that attracts every age group. We’re thrilled at the response.”
The Susi Q is operated by Laguna Beach Seniors, established in part to enable older adults to “age in place.”
“In Laguna Beach, ‘aging in place’ means you’re supported in your lifestyle and your own home as the years tick by, instead of feeling the need to move to a senior community,” said Babayi. “In that same vein, we encourage all age groups to attend our programs so that older adults don’t feel isolated from the community at large.”
Register online for “An Evening with an Author” at www.thesusiq.org and click on Classes. To RSVP by phone, call 949.715.8105, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The Susi Q offers a wide range of educational and fun programs, classes and clubs for older adults – though all ages are welcome. The Susi Q’s Care Management Department provides free consultation, education and practical resources for vulnerable seniors, enabling them to stay safe, informed and independent. For more information on the Susi Q, the portal to access the best of Laguna’s community resources, visit www.thesusiq.org.
LAM adds more events to spring calendar and Shepard Fairey exhibit opens
Many exciting exhibitions are on view at Laguna Art Museum (LAM) and the museum has added more public programs, including innovative workshops and musical performances. On Saturday, March 11, a new exhibit opened.
Facing the Giant – Three Decades of Dissent: Shepard Fairey features a selection of key works that highlight how Fairey has developed an intentionally accessible visual style that speaks broadly by pulling from visual history to address critical issues.
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Photos courtesy of LAM
Fairey created viral art sticker campaign
It all began with a sticker. From 1989 onward, Fairey’s non-conformist attitude was established with the creation of his viral art sticker campaign Andre the Giant Has a Posse. The following 30 years saw Fairey develop a constant presence in the urban landscape, forging a global following and establishing himself as a leading artist who has influenced youth culture, fashion, identity, aesthetics and even politics. His bold, iconic images always convey a clear message, often depicting the struggle of oppression as a human experience and celebrating those who fight for change.
Poster Contest – New In The Lab @ LAM: Use your voice and speak up for a cause that is important to you! Inspired by Facing the Giant – Three Decades of Dissent: Shepard Fairey, create a mixed-media poster for a purpose.
Snap a picture of your “poster for a cause” inspired by this exhibit and tag @lagunaartmuseum on Instagram for a chance to win.
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Sherman Library Director Jill Thrasher will share the art collection, of which William Wendt’s “The Field Road” is included
–Sunday, March 19, 11 a.m.
Sherman Library & Gardens: A History with Jill Thrasher
Sherman Library & Gardens’ fine art collection is traveling for the first time in 50 years. This selection of work attempts to reveal the unseen ties between individuals, land and industry. Each artwork is an opportunity to make connections between past and present, tell a tale of local lore and notoriety and see the ties that weave California’s coastal and artistic communities together. Come hear Jill Thrasher, Sherman Library director, discuss the connection between the artwork and the unique holdings of the Sherman Library.
Advance tickets recommended. LAM Museum members: $7, Sherman Library members: $7, Non-members: $14. For tickets, click here.
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Council agenda includes facility reservation program for South Laguna campus, summer parking management plan, disclosure of records
By SARA HALL
Laguna Beach City Council will consider a variety of interesting items during their meeting next week.
At the Tuesday (March 21) meeting, during regular business, on the consent calendar, and during extraordinary business, council will hear and/or consider: A facility reservation program and license agreement policy and associated fee schedule for the former St. Catherine campus; 2023 summer parking management plan; waiving the exemption under the Public Records Act and authorize the disclosure of certain records; an amendment to the solid waste franchise agreement and a second reading of the bluff overlay district and major remodel ordinance.
Last up during regular business, council will consider approving the interim use facility reservation program and the license agreement policy and associated fee schedule for the Laguna Beach Community and Recreation Center (former home of the St. Catherine of Siena parish school campus) located at 30516 Coast Highway. Council will also consider approving limiting large events with more than 40 participants and other special events to two days or less (per event) and require a temporary use permit for such events.
On January 24, council voted 4-1 in favor of the interim use plan for the property. Councilmember George Weiss dissented, saying that he liked the idea but thought it was premature.
The interim use plan approved in January takes advantage of the available office spaces and recreational areas without making any structural changes on the property, which provides approximately 39,500 square feet of indoor space.
Use of the property will include most available classrooms, opening and emergency operations center and training room, a police department and marine safety substation and relocating fire department administration from city hall to the property’s administrative area.
Recreational programming includes indoor pickleball, youth recreation classes, adult drop-in basketball, cultural arts programming on the stage and wedding ceremonies performed in the chapel. Long-term uses of the property will be considered as part of a comprehensive city facilities master plan.
The action in January also directed staff to develop an interim rental program and fee structure with an agreement that is mindful of any long-term uses prioritized as part of the facilities master plan.
The facility reservation and rental program will provide residents, nonprofit serving Laguna Beach, and other community organizations the opportunity to use the facility in coordination with the city’s recreation programming and other planned civic uses. These organizations can reserve the space in the gymnasium, indoor classrooms and the grass field for sports practices on an hourly basis, Monday through Friday, at a set fee per hour. Weekend rentals may also be available in the future, depending on staff availability and community interest.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
A facility reservation program and license agreement policy and associated fee schedule for the former St. Catherine campus is on the council agenda
Staff is proposing the reservation program be managed on a first come, first serve basis that gives priority to: City-sponsored programs and events; Laguna Beach nonprofit organizations; Laguna Beach Unified School District-sponsored programs; local individual groups and residents, and sports clubs and for-profit businesses.
The proposed hourly rates are consistent with what’s currently charged for indoor space at other Laguna Beach facilities and comparable to fees charged by other Orange County cities.
The proposed hourly rates are:
–Local nonprofits (including LBUSD events) will be charged $42 for classrooms, $25 for the field, $55 for half the gym and $85 for the full gym.
–Local individual groups will be charged $62 for classrooms, $40 for the field, $75 for half the gym and $115 for the full gym.
–Businesses will be charged $88 for classrooms, $50 for the field, $115 for half the gym and $150 for the full gym.
According to the staff report, city employees will have complete authority over the facility, equipment, participants and activities, including the authority to request changes to an activity. An additional fee of $25 per hour will be charged if additional city staff is required for the activity.
Vehicles must be parked within the existing capacity of the property and coordinated with other city activities. All equipment is removed at the end of event and all trash is placed in appropriate containers as designated by city staff.
Fee-based classes or programs (other than recreation programs), receptions, fundraising events, in events for sales purposes cannot participate in this program.
The proposed license agreement program is provided to govern the use of approximately six general purpose classrooms that will be available for weekly or monthly rentals under a license agreement program, Organizations will be able to utilize the space for short-term, non-recreational use, like meetings or training programs.
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Laguna Beach High School Class of 2003 is seeking alumni for 20-year reunion
The Laguna Beach High School Class of 2003 is holding its 20-year reunion on October 21 right here in Laguna Beach. Festivities will include food, drinks, dancing and a DJ.
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Photos courtesy of LBHS Class of 2003
Laguna Beach High School Class of 2003
The class is trying to reach alumni and parents of alumni to assist in passing on this information, so graduates can reconnect with their former classmates.
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Laguna Beach High School Nautilus Yearbook cover for the 2002-2003 school years
Visit their website for more information and to buy tickets. Check out their Instagram page for news, fun throwback photos and teacher cameo videos. Visit www.lbhsclassof2003.rsvpify.com. View their Instagram page: @lbhs20yearreunion2003.
LBCAC celebrates Women’s History Month
The Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center (LBCAC) continues to honor Women’s History Month with intimate concerts and movie screenings. Note: Simply Sammy (originally scheduled for February 25) has been rescheduled to April 22.
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Photos courtesy of LBCAC
“Playing the Game” - March 19
–Sunday, March 19, 3 p.m.
Playing the Game, Denise Casey
In Playing the Game, Denise Casey explores the many games we play in order to belong from taking cover in a monastery skipping out of rehab, to going halfway across the world to hear the Himalayas, or time traveling through a seventh grade science class. In this 60-minute, one-woman play, Casey follows the games she’s played through the seen and unseen world into a larger collective moment, the summer of 2020. Part memoir, part meditation, part make-believe, Playing the Game is unblinking in its exploration of possibility and courage. For tickets, click here.
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“She Said” - March 22
–Wednesday, March 22, 6:30 p.m.
She Said, Women’s History Month Film Festival
Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan star as New York Times reporters Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor, who together broke one of the most important stories in a generation – a story that helped launch the #Metoo movement, shattered decades of silence around the subject of sexual assault in Hollywood and altered American culture forever.
Free admission, but donations are appreciated. Limited Seating. To RSVP, click here.
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“Hidden Figures” - March 29
–Wednesday, March 29, 6:30 p.m.
Hidden Figures, Women’s History Month Film Festival
Three brilliant African-American women at NASA – Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson – serve as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit, a stunning achievement that restored the nation’s confidence, turned around the Space Race and galvanized the world.
Free admission, but donations are appreciated. Limited Seating. To RSVP, click here.
LBCAC is located at 235 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach.
For tickets and the LBCAC calendar, go to www.lbculturalartscenter.org.
LBCAC has installed a Patriot Air Purification System to ensure a virus-free environment.
Grant funding was made possible by the lodging establishments and the City of Laguna Beach.
Laguna high school students walk for water
Laguna Beach has a history of being a waterwise community, so it’s not surprising 25 of LBHS’ students have taken that motto to heart by “Walking for Water.” Last year, the $100,000 they raised helped underwrite the costs of building six freshwater wells in West Africa and India. This year, organizers of the next walking event, which will be held on Sunday, March 26 at the Laguna Beach High School track, hope to raise even more money.
“What would you do if you had to walk for hours every day just to fetch water, some of it contaminated, for yourself and your family?”, asked high school senior Cleo Washer. “Sometimes you might have to climb steep hills, like Park Avenue here in town, or walk on damaged roads for miles in sweltering heat. Imagine how much easier, and healthier, a person’s life would be if there was a fresh water well in their village,” she added.
“The ‘Walking for Water’ project is a nonprofit organization with local roots here and in Virginia,” founder Susan Hough of Laguna Beach said. “I’m so proud of what so many high school students have been able to accomplish. None of the work in West Africa or India could have been possible without the proceeds from previous annual walks,” said Hough. Through this project, “We engage youth to care for the world around them.”
Charitable donations to the March 26 walk, which takes place 12-3 p.m., will help pay for new wells in Togo, Africa.
Supporters can register for the 5 or 10k walk and encourage friends and families to donate in their name or pledge support to those already signed up to walk.
“Families with young children are encouraged to attend the walk,” Washer said. “There will be face painting and games, plus opportunities to meet with the high school students who truly are making a difference in people’s lives,” she said.
“If you can’t attend the walk, the students and I encourage you to help by donating to www.wisdomspring.org,” Hough said.
Laguna Live! presents Jazz Wednesdays with sensational vocalist, trumpeter and new events for spring
Laguna Live! presents Jazz Wednesdays and two exciting spring performances.
On Wednesday, March 22, join Laguna Live! for the last concert in their current series of Jazz Wednesdays when they welcome rising star, jazz vocalist, Rachel Avalon, and the ever-popular trumpet and flugelhorn player Tony Guerrero. Along with Mark Visher on Sax, Dave Siebels on keyboard, David Miller on Bass and Matt Johnson on Drums, Rachel and the Tony Guerrero Quintet will treat the audience to jazz standard greats.
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Photos courtesy of Laguna Live!
Sensational vocalist Rachel Avalon
A classically trained jazz vocalist, Rachel Avalon has experience performing anywhere from jazz festivals to dive bars to weddings to Carnegie Hall. New to the SoCal area from north Idaho, she is inspired by the classics. Since her Californian debut in winter of 2022, she has performed at Walt Disney Concert Hall alongside Grammy-winning musician Arturo Sandoval and with Jane Lynch at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
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Trumpeter Tony Guerrero
Tony Guerrero’s resume reads like a who’s who of contemporary music. He’s worked with a diverse roster of artists, including jazz legends Freddie Hubbard, Arturo Sandoval, Tom Scott and Joe Sample, rock icons Brian Wilson, Paul McCartney, Slash and Billy Idol, pop sensations Chance the Rapper, The Jonas Bros and the quadruple-platinum soundtrack to Disney’s High School Musical, as well as Hollywood icons Dick Van Dyke, Jane Lynch, Merv Griffin and more.
Doors open at 5 p.m.; the concert will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tickets are $37.50 and available at www.lagunalive.org, or call 949.715.9713.
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Gary Gould performs on April 13
On Thursday, April 13 at 5 p.m., Laguna Live! presents musician and educator, Gary Gould, and “World of Winds,” his eclectic program, featuring unique instruments with narration and music from around the world, including klezmer, Celtic, swing and Americana. The event will take place at the Woman’s Club of Laguna Beach, 286 St. Ann’s Drive, Laguna Beach.
A multi-woodwindist, Gould’s long and successful career has seen him perform throughout the U.S. and internationally. As an instructor, he has won top awards for conducting bands at the high school, college and community levels.
For tickets, which are $10, visit www.lagunalive.org. Kids 12 and under are free,
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Shout Hallelujah: Maiya Sykes performs on May 10
“Shout Hallelujah with Maiya Sykes” takes place on Wednesday, May 10 at 6 p.m. at [seven- degrees], 891 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.
Laguna Live! brings back powerhouse, jazz and blues vocalist Sykes and her band for a concert illuminating the presence of gospel music in popular music over the last century, with arrangements by Gershwin, Cole Porter, Jimmy McHugh and more.
Sykes, who studied under Nina Simone and Betty Carter, had a four-chair turning debut on season 7 of The Voice. She has worked with The Black-Eyed Peas, Macy Gray, Michael Buble and Leona Lewis amongst many others. Sykes’ featured videos with internet sensation, Post Modern Jukebox, have more than three million hits.
For tickets, which are $37.50, go to www.lagunalive.org, or call 949.715. 9713.
25th Annual John Gardiner Poetry Contest announced
April is coming up, marking the 25th Annual John Gardiner Community Poetry Contest at Laguna Beach Public Library. The contest is open to all ages and submissions will be accepted from April 1-30.
Photos courtesy of Laguna Beach Public Library
John Gardiner
For all you would-be poets out there, prizes will be awarded in five age categories for up to $100 gift certificates. Public reading of the winning poems will take place on Saturday, June 3 at 11 a.m.
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Mike Sprake reading the winning poems at last year’s Poetry Contest
Submission guidelines: Submit up to two (2) original poems with the theme: Downtown. Each poem should be more than 25 lines of text. Submit your poetry with the body of an email to Laguna Beach Library at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Include your name, address, phone number and grade level, or adult. No attachments, please.
This annual poetry contest is supported by the Friends of the Laguna Beach Library.
Laguna Beach Library is located at 363 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach.
56th Annual Patriots Day Parade trophies presented to two local organizations
The 56th Annual Patriots Day special trophies were presented to two local organizations that support our community.
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Special trophies for the 56th Annual Patriots Day Parade
The Grand Marshal’s Trophy was presented by this year’s Parade Grand Marshal Toni Iseman to No Square Theatre, celebrating their 30th anniversary of Lagunatics.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
“Lagunatics” Founder and Director Bree Burgess Rosen riding in the 56th Annual Patriots Day Parade. No Square Theatre was awarded this year’s Grand Marshal Trophy.
The President’s Trophy was presented by Patriots Day Parade President Ed Hanke to the Pageant of the Masters.
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Photo by Mary Hurlbut
The Pageant of the Masters’ entry themed “Dinosaur Response Team” in the 56th Annual Patriots Day Parade was the recipient of this year’s President’s Trophy.
For further information or to donate to the Patriots Day Parade, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, email Sandi Werthe at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 949.494.6016.
The Plant Man: More spring planting questions answered
By Steve Kawaratani
“The world’s favorite season is the spring. All things seem possible.” –Edwin Way Teale
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Photos courtesy of Steve Kawaratani
Steve Kawaratani
Among my rites of spring was to avoid the seemingly constant rain in Laguna and adjacent locales. I had been successful in the main until this week, however, I must admit that the precipitation has been good for well-tended flower beds.
Here are a few more of your garden questions for March.
Q. Plant Man, what flowers do you favor now?
A. Cyclamen, impatiens, English primrose, foxglove, Iceland poppy, snapdragon and azalea top my garden color list for the spring.
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My flower garden bursting with color
Q. Is it too late for bulbs now that it is mid-March?
A. March is the “other” bulb season. There is still plenty of time to start gladiolus, dahlias, the fragrant tuberose, and of course, tuberous begonias. They will all benefit by being mulched to keep the soil moist during our sunny early spring, which I hope is just around the corner.
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Tulips in a variety of hues
Q. Any suggestions for my old bulbs?
A. Spring-flowering bulbs that have flowered, such as hyacinth and narcissus, may be saved by allowing the foliage to remain on the plant. Once the foliage has matured (turned brown), remove the bulbs and keep them paper bagged and dry until time for planting in the fall.
I would be remiss, if I didn’t mention that St. Patrick’s Day is the traditional day to plant potatoes and peas in Ireland. Why not celebrate the holiday with a gardener’s favorite “green” pastime – plant some flowers (or shamrocks) this weekend – rain or shine! See you next time.
Steve Kawaratani has been a local guy for seven decades and likes to garden and drive the Baja Peninsula with Loki. He can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 949.494.5141.
Meet Pet of the Week Hugh
Hugh is currently taking over Pet of the Week. He is a 2 1/2-year-old Corgi/Terrier mix who is neutered. He is very loving, confident and friendly. He would do well in a home with other dogs, and loves to be around people.
Nancy Goodwin, shelter director, is hoping to have Hugh adopted as soon as possible.
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Courtesy of the Laguna Beach Animal Shelter
Meet Hugh, a friendly and loving companion to have by your side
The Laguna Beach Animal Shelter adoption procedures are designed to make sure that both the potential family and the animal adopted are in the very best situation possible. Due to their approach to adoption, their return rate is five percent as compared to the national return rate of 50%.
The Laguna Beach Animal Shelter is located at 20612 Laguna Canyon Road. Call 949.497.3552, or go to the website for information on adoption procedures, www.puplagunabeach.org/our-pets.php.
Laguna Playhouse announces its 2023-2024 season of shows!
Laguna Playhouse is excited to announce its 2023-2024 season of shows. This sensational season begins with the musical smash hit 2 Pianos, 4 Hands; followed by the legendary classic play turned iconic film, The Rainmaker, then the Playhouse presents a delightful new screwball comedy, The Angel Next Door. Next, they head to Harlem to celebrate the extraordinary music of Fats Waller with the Tony Award-winning musical, Ain’t Misbehavin’; then experience the power and resilience of the human spirit with the moving family drama, A Shayna Maidel; followed by a wonderful production of Moliere’s classic Tartuffe. They complete their season with one of the great whodunit mysteries of our time, Holmes And Watson.
A “something for everyone” season of shows all at your Laguna Playhouse. According to Interim Artistic Director David Ellenstein, “This is truly an exceptional season of plays and musicals as we head into our second century. Our subscribers and audiences are going to be moved, inspired, thrilled, engaged and mesmerized by the seven theatrical events we have planned for them over the coming year!”
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Photos courtesy of the Playhouse
“2 Pianos, 4 Hands” runs from July 5-23
“A rare jewel of real entertainment, 2 Pianos 4 Hands, written by Ted Dykstra and Richard Greenblatt, not only hits all the right notes, but tickles the ivories and your funny bone too!” –The Daily Mail. 2 Pianos, 4 Hands runs from July 5-23, with a press opening July 9 at 5:30 p.m.
Get ready for an interlude of laughter and music as two men, or “four hands,” take you on a journey about their would-be careers as concert pianists. The talented duo trade stories about piano lessons, pushy parents and eccentric teachers while playing everything from Bach to Billy Joel.
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“The Rainmaker” runs from September 20 through October 8
Written by N. Richard Nash, The Rainmaker opens on September 20 with the press opening September 24 at 5:30 p.m.
“After nearly half a century, The Rainmaker still makes a handsomely staged case for miracles.” –Los Angeles Times
A classic tale of Americana, set against the backdrop of a western drought, The Rainmaker brings lonely souls together as they traverse the struggles of finding who they truly are and how they fit into the world. Laced with humor and charm, The Rainmaker still resonates today with poignancy, hope and courage. A firm part of the canon of 20th century dramatic literature, revisiting this story will prove to be a satisfying and uplifting theatrical experience encouraging audiences to believe in the unbelievable.
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“The Angel Next Door” runs from October 15 through November 5
The Playhouse introduces a brand-new play – The Angel Next Door.
It will run from October 18 through November 5 (Press Opening is October 22 at 5:30 p.m.) Written by Paul Slade Smith, it was adapted from Play at the Castle by Ferenc Molnar.
Capturing the sheer joy, sophistication, and wit of 1940s screwball comedies, playwright Paul Slade Smith (The Outsider, Unnecessary Farce) has brilliantly adapted Ferenc Molnar’s classic farce, Play at the Castle. The cast of characters in The Angel Next Door grapple with romance, misunderstandings, and comical situations which have the potential of major disasters and riotous laughter. Transferring directly from North Coast Repertory Theatre after its World Premiere, The Angel Next Door abounds with sharp, fast-paced dialogue that delivers non-stop mirth.
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African American history celebrated in Laguna Beach for a great cause
By Dr. Rebecca Lindsey
“Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.”–Maya Angelou
To better understand why our world, society and community regrettably faces racial turmoil of all kinds, there remains a need to embrace all by becoming knowledgeable about people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. They too have shaped and shared in the building of our society, communities and world. Even in the ethnic communities where diversity is categorically underrepresented, there remains a need to understand, acknowledge and celebrate diversity as there is an integral link between our past, present and future; all of which may potentially lead to erroneous perceptions, biases and inquisitiveness. When noticing that which is known, we are quick to jump to stereotypes. For example, I faced this phenomenon while browsing in one of Laguna’s off-scale stores when a sales lady stated, “I’d better follow her around our store; they are known to grab and run.” Her words slipped because she lacks cultural awareness. A topic that I would cover in a pop-up presentation. My husband, Roy, always says, “When you learn better, you do better.” Which takes me back to the recurring question of “Why African American history should be celebrated, after all we get along, or do we?” Let’s talk about that.
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Submitted photos
“Unity” by Anzonette, Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach
Let me be clear, American history is black and white. Thus, Carter G. Woodson, educator, became angered that history books ignored historical facts of Black Americans. It was his goal to acknowledge the achievements of Blacks in our country, society and communities. In 1926, he sought to change the narrative, and founded Negro History Month, which is now Black/African American History Month which became official in 1976. This event allows us to acknowledge the long arduous achievements of African Americans. Next, consider the special moment honoring, remembering and celebrating Col. Paris Davis, who received a Medal of Honor for his heroic mission during the Vietnam War. His nomination became mysteriously “lost” twice, but, 60 years later, he was finally honored, thanks to President Biden. Therefore, an African American art mural was unveiled in Miami-Dade, Florida and in other cities followed. Subsequently came the passage of Juneteenth (now a legal holiday). Finally, Bloody Sunday, a significant event which advocated voting rights for all African Americans, was recently remembered in Selma, Ala. in February during Black History Month (www.history.com/topics/black-history/black history-month).
Joining in an African American history event forms friendships. Charles Spurgeon said, “Friendship is one of the sweetest joys of life. Many might have failed beneath bitterness of their trial had they not found a friend.” The African American history celebration goes beyond remembering Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and John Lewis to highlighting the works of such individuals as Mary McLeod Bethune, educator/activist (1875-1955) and Katherine Johnson, scientist (1918-2020), profiled in the film Hidden Figures. Let us not forget inventors who are a significant part of our daily lives. For example, Garett Morgan in 1923 invented the three-light signal; Alexander Miles invented the automatic elevator doors in 1887; Charles Drew (1904-1950) physician, surgeon and medical researcher who was instrumental with helping the Red Cross and blood transfusions; Bubba Wallace (2021-present), first African American to win a NASCAR Cup and then there is Sir Lewis Hamilton who also won at NASCAR.
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“Love” by Nicole, Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach
African American history in 2023 became a vital event for our Laguna Beach community. One evening we traced different eras of Black history only to discover that my history was also your history. The visual essence of African Americans, plus children’s art from our own Boys & Girls Club were shown as was the marvelous artwork by Henry Rousseau, and other African and African Americans, all of which carry strong African American history messages. We all enjoyed music by local artists and guests.
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“Laundry Day” by Henry Rousseau
Now you understand why the Laguna Beach community celebrated two ethnic events: Unveiling Multiethnic Artworks in January and Black/African American history in February. We all need to remember that African American history is essential for our society and community. Celebrating African American history ushers in friendship.
Dr. Rebecca Washington Lindsey is a researcher, writer and well-known in the educational profession. She has written past articles on the topic of ethnic diversity and artworks, along with African American/Black history.
Sawdust Art Festival offers art classes for March
Sawdust Art Festival is offering a variety of art classes for the coming month of March – a program that operates in the festival off-season. From watercolors to acorn fairies, they offer myriad experiences from which to choose to get creative, so sign up now.
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Whimsical Texture and Mark Making by Kate Cleaves
–Friday, March 17, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Whimsical Texture and Mark Making with Kate Cleaves
Discover visual texture, pattern and mark making through a variety of exploration and process art. Dive into a world of whimsy, let those creative juices flow and learn how to have fun using everyday objects. Cleaves’ magical approach will lead you step-by-step to a final project of a paper cutout collage using their own handmade art papers. This is a truly fun yet educational class with lots of hints and tips about how to make your own mark on your work. This class is great for both absolute beginners, and those with some experience who want to learn more about textures and pattern making. All materials for this project are included in the price. Cost: $75 per student. All materials are included.
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Freestyle watercolors with Nansea Williams
–Friday, March 17, 2-4 p.m.
–Friday, March 31, 2-4 p.m.
Freestyle Watercolor Workshop with Nansea Williams
Let your spirit soar with this freestyle watercolor workshop! Under the gentle guidance of artist Nansea Williams, you will learn how easy it is to create a beautiful watercolor painting using watercolor brush pens and posca markers. Nansea will show you how to apply the paint, using different strokes and layering techniques. She will then show you how to transform your array of color into a beautiful design using posca markers. Cost: $55 per student includes materials.
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After Dark! Date Night edition on March 17
–Friday, March 17, 5-7 p.m.
After Dark: Sailboat Seascape in Acrylic with Lisa Rainey
Think about a scene in Maine, with lighthouses and boats on the water. On this special After Dark! Date Night edition, why not take a trip together without having to leave town? Using a limited palette and simple shapes, Rainey will lead you step-by-step to create a dramatic and moody scene that you will be proud to hang on your wall and cherish.
High quality art materials will be provided including acrylic paints, a variety of brushes, 11”x14” canvas, palette knife and printed colored reference image.
Cost: $95 per student. Includes all materials and wine.
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Create your own acorn faerie
–Saturday, March 18, 1-4 p.m.
Acorn Faerie and Home Workshop with Nansea Williams
Whimsical and magical – enter the fantastic faerie world of artist Nansea Williams. In this extended class, Williams will show you how to create your very own quirky faerie using pipe cleaners, felt, wool felting and acorns as well as making a little house for your faerie to live in. Step-by-step, she will take you on a playful journey into a faerie wonderland, where you will leave with an elvish little friend and their home. Cost: $95 per student. Includes all materials and magic. All ages are welcome, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
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LOCA keeps marching in March
LOCA continues with an interesting and diverse mix of events in March –new art programs and collaborations between LOCA and LPAPA – Artful Afternoons and paint togethers.
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Illustration for kids on March 20 and March 27
–Monday, March 20, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Illustrate and Create for Kids 7 years and older - Laguna Beach Library, 363 Glenneyre St.
LOCA Arts Education is offering free art workshops for kids at Laguna Beach Public Library. Young children ages 7 years and older will enjoy Illustrate and Create on Mondays. First come, first serve and materials are provided.
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Debra Huse, Virtual Paint Together
–Tuesday, March 21, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
LPAPA and LOCA - Debra Huse: Virtual Paint Together
Register to join LPAPA Signature Artist Member Debra Huse in this fun and informative LPAPA+LOCA live-streamed Mentor Paint Together session on “Get the Glow.” In this Virtual Paint Together, Huse will demonstrate her oil painting process, brush stroke by brush stroke, in creating a beautiful sunset painting. Sunsets are beautiful, but sometimes difficult.
Registration fee: $25 for LPAPA and LOCA Members, $50 for Non-members. For tickets, click here.
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Casey Parlette in his shop
–Wednesday, March 22, 5:30-7 p.m.
Meet Casey Parlette – Wildlife Sculptor, wood, metal and stone
Laguna Beach Community Center, 380 Third St., free onsite parking
LOCA is combining “Art + Dining” into one unique, mid-week experience in downtown Laguna Beach.
Casey Parlette creates representational and stylized sculptures and wall installations of ocean life, fish, insects and more. His shark sculptures were recently displayed outside Laguna Beach City Hall, and his octopus sculpture and kelp bench are on permanent view at Heisler Park. Parlette will present samples of his work, and share stories about his newest wall installation, Pelicans, for the newly renovated Coast Inn in Laguna Beach. All attendees will qualify for our drawing to win one of two signed copies of his book A Natural Eye.
Free to LOCA Members, Non-members $20. Advance registration is required, so email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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Artful Afternoons at the Library
–Thursday, March 23, 3-4 p.m.
Artful Afternoons at the Library
Laguna Beach Library 363 Glenneyre Street, Laguna Beach LOCA Arts
Education is offering free art workshops for kids at Laguna Beach Public Library. Young children ages 4-6 will enjoy Artful Afternoons on Thursdays, March 23, 30 and April 6, from 3-4 p.m. LOCA teachers Reem Khalil and Allison Keefe will introduce books, stories, and pictures as inspiration for the art projects.
Nature-themed books are the focus this spring. The workshops are free, and no registration is required.
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30th LOCA Birthday BASH on March 26
–Sunday, March 26, 4-7 p.m.
LOCA Arts Education Birthday BASH
LOCA Arts Education invites all art lovers to their Birthday BASH fundraising event in celebration of 30 years of LOCA’s service in Laguna Beach. Festivities take place in Bridge Hall at the Neighborhood Congregational Church, 340 St. Ann’s Drive, Laguna Beach.
Partygoers will enjoy gourmet foods and wine, interactive games for grownups including a musical cake walk, a bash-the-piñata and a “Laguna Gothic” photo booth, inspired by Grant Wood’s American Gothic painting. A signature cocktail will be served and everyone will receive a handmade ceramic party favor to keep. Those who take part in the wine pull will pick numbered corks and win bottled wine to take home. Opportunity drawings, live and silent auctions and a live jazz trio will round out the fun.
Fundraiser proceeds support LOCA’s award-winning programs serving people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities throughout Laguna Beach. Free on-site parking; enter from Glenneyre Street.
Fee: $75 each in advance, $85 at the door. For tickets, click here.
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Two textile workshops on April 19 and 26 – demonstrating the ancient practice of Shibori
–Wednesdays, April 19 and 26, from 1-4 p.m.
Shirbori and Indigo Dyeing with Reem Khalil
These classes are held on two consecutive Wednesdays in the Susi Q art room of the Laguna Beach Community Center.
This two-session textile workshop will demonstrate the ancient practice of Shibori tying, clamping, stitching and wrapping of silk or paper. Shibori will then be dipped in an indigo vat. You will walk away with several pieces of wearable and fine art pieces.
Fee: LOCA Members $50, Non-members $100. To register, click here.
For more information about LOCA, go to www.locaarts.org.
Rain is gone…for now
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Photo by Scott Brashier
Although our weather in recent times has turned wet, very wet, forecasts show the next storms will appear to hit our area on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. Continue to batten down the hatches!
Cultural Arts Updates: What’s happening in the arts around town?
–Banner Competition Winners
Congratulations to Tom Clark, Anne Girtz, Lovisa Kjerrgren, Wendy Duong and Tatyana Zen for having their banner designs selected for the 2023 Banner and Mini-Banner Competitions. The banners will be hand-painted by each artist and displayed at Main Beach and City Hall this summer. This program is funded by the lodging establishments and City of Laguna Beach.
To see all the winners, click here.
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Photos courtesy of City Hall
Front and back mini-design by Tom Clark
–Art That’s Small at City Hall
Awards Reception
Thursday, April 6, 6-7 p.m.
The annual Art That’s Small at City Hall exhibition is on display now through April 20, featuring artwork from more than 50 Orange County artists. The exhibit is free and open to the public during city business hours.
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“Acacia St” by Philip Womack
The public is also invited to attend the awards reception on Thursday, April 6 from 6-7 p.m. This program is funded by the lodging establishments and City of Laguna Beach.
Laguna Art-A-Fair’s call for entries was a huge success
Laguna Art-A-Fair, an annual outdoor summer art festival, announced that their recent call for entries was a tremendous success. According to Laguna Art-A-Fair’s Vice President of Publicity and Marketing Kim Brandon-Watson, the campaign to attract a wide diversity of artists from various cultural and geographic backgrounds paid off big. The campaign’s efforts reached more than 57,000 people in a two-month period, and taking the entry process online to make it easy to apply, resulted in more than a 125% increase in the number of applying artists compared to an average from the previous recent years.
“We are thrilled with the response to our call for entries,” said President Bob Ross. “Our commitment to providing a highly visible and enjoyable venue for artists from all over the world to showcase their artwork is getting noticed, and we are proud to see such a diverse group of very talented artists responding to our call.”
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Courtesy of Laguna Art-A-Fair
Laguna Art-A-Fair features more than 115 award-winning artists and artisans exhibiting oil paintings, mixed media, jewelry and more
Kim Brandon-Watson added that the artists who responded to the call for entries came from countries such as Guatemala, Armenia and Mexico... as well as states as far-flung as Florida and Wyoming, showing the reach and impact of the campaign. “This extended breadth of reach will directly benefit any new sponsors who would like to take advantage of our successful efforts,” said Kim.
For 57 years, Laguna Art-A-Fair has brought together international and local artists, showcasing a wide variety of styles and cultural diversity. The festival features over 115 award-winning artists and artisans exhibiting oil paintings, mixed media, jewelry, and more. The fair also includes art demonstrations, workshops, live music, excellent cuisine and this year will include dancing lessons as well.
The success of the call for entries is a testament to the festival’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, and the festival looks forward to choosing and welcoming the new artists to the highly coveted event.
“We are excited to continue to build on the success of this year’s call for entries and look forward to working with new sponsors who share our commitment to supporting and promoting artists from all over the world while providing some of the highest quality artwork for our patrons,” said Bob Ross.
Laguna Art-A-Fair takes place June 30-September 3. It is located at 777 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. For more information, visit www.art-a-fair.com.
LCAD hosts “Igniting Change: Design, Fashion, Innovation” on March 22
The LCAD Graphic Design + Digital Media program, in partnership with Group Y, welcomes Ryan Hitzel of Roark and Jesse White of Whitespace to share their stories and creative history. The event – “Igniting Change: Design, Fashion, Innovation” – is open to the public and takes place on Wednesday, March 22 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Festival of Arts Forum Theater, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.
Join them for food and beverages as they reconnect with industry and create new conversations surrounding design, lifestyle, action sports and innovation.
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Photos courtesy of LCAD
Founder and CEO of Roark, Ryan Hitzel
Ryan Hitzel is the founder and CEO of Roark, a global adventure lifestyle brand that produces apparel for rigorous adventures, inspired by far-flung destinations and culture. Before starting Roark, Hitzel worked as a graphic designer in action sports apparel and later as a creative director at Deutsch LA, where he won awards for his work on high-profile campaigns for brands such as Volkswagen.
Hitzel has drawn much of his inspiration from adventurism, fine art, global culture and the many places he finds himself in between chasing waves – often off the beaten path. Today, he resides in his hometown of Laguna Beach with his wife Dianne, son Henry and daughter Claire.
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Jesse White of Whitespace
Jesse White is a successful creative director with a diverse skillset in product design, advertising and marketing. He recently launched Whitespace Snowboards with his brother Shaun, which is focused on developing high-quality snowboarding products and promoting the positive physical and mental aspects of the sport. Previous partners include Target, Oakley, Ubisoft gaming and Burton Snowboards.
Evening schedule:
6:30 p.m. – Check In, Networking, Apps & Drinks, LCAD student exhibits
7:15-8:45 p.m. – Intro & Speakers
8:45-9:30 p.m. – Follow up Networking & Drinks
Tickets: $35 which includes event access to the talk, networking and apps/drinks ($40 at the door).
Special rates are available to Companies (5 or more) and LCAD Alumni. LCAD students are free
To register, click here.
Ocean Explorers program at PMMC brings the ocean into your home
Bring the ocean into your home with the Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC) Ocean Explorers program, an after-school remote learning experience.
Live instructors teach engaging and interactive content for kids ages 8-12 over four 90-minute classes.
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Courtesy of PMMC
Geared to ages 8-12, PMMC’s Ocean Explorers program is an after-school remote learning experience with engaging and interactive content
PMMC is now enrolling for Wacky Whales! Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a marine mammal scientist? Dive in with PMMC as you investigate together active research on some wacky whalers. Explorers will discover research techniques and methods used in the field, while experimenting with their own data.
For more information and to sign up, visit www.pacificmmc.org/oceanexplorers.
Pacific Marine Mammal Center is located at 20612 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. For more information, visit www.pacificmmc.org.
SchoolPower hosts “Joy!” to benefit local students
SchoolPower, Laguna Beach’s Education Foundation, will host its highly anticipated 37th Annual Gala at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club on the evening of Saturday, March 18.
Approximately 300 members of the Laguna Beach community will come together to raise funds to enrich the educational experience and support the well-being of students in the Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD). This year’s theme, “Joy!,” spotlights SchoolPower’s ongoing efforts to bring joy to LBUSD students, families and educators through enrichment programs, activities and family support services.
The event’s online silent auction will include a range of tempting products and unique experiences generously donated by local businesses and families. Anyone – attending the event or not – can participate in the auction by texting “schoolpowergala” to 243-725, where they can sign in to bid on items including jewelry from Fredric H. Rubel, a two-night getaway in Big Bear, four seats to a Chargers game and Arrow&Branch wines and a wine tasting experience.
“We are excited to invite SchoolPower supporters to bid on our sensational auction items,” said SchoolPower President Amy Dechary. “Each donation means we can continue to offer programs and services that help make LBUSD schools exceptional.”
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Photo by Blue Sky’s Studio
SchoolPower President Amy Francis-Dechary with her husband Paul at last year’s “Sense of Wonder” Gala
During the live auction, event attendees have the opportunity to win compelling packages, including a week at the Big Island’s Kings’ Land resort, a four-day stay in a luxury home in Aspen during X Games, three nights in a bungalow-style guest room at Montage Healdsburg and a private suite at Monster Jam Anaheim.
Attendees also will be encouraged to raise their paddles to fund the yearly Fund-a-Need initiative, which supports SchoolPower’s key programs including SchoolPower Grants, the After School Program, and the Family Resource Center. Teachers, coaches, counselors and staff are invited to apply for SchoolPower Grants at any time during the school year.
“Our goal is to encourage innovation and to support enrichment – the ‘extra stuff’ that makes our schools here in Laguna so incredible,” said Executive Director Sarah Durand. New this year, SchoolPower administers the After School Program at El Morro and Top of the World elementary schools. In partnership with LBUSD, SchoolPower also helps support the Family Resource Center, which provides LBUSD students and families with direct and immediate access to services, support and educational programs. “We have been honored to work closely with the district as the Family Resource Center has taken shape over the past couple of years – it’s exciting to be a part of this community effort to support Laguna Beach’s youth,” added Durand.
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Photo by Blue Sky’s Studio
Showing their community support at last year’s “Sense of Wonder” Gala (clockwise from top) Then Laguna Beach Mayor Sue Kempf, SchoolPower Endowment President Steve Samuelian, Kristin Samuelian, John Selbe, LBUSD Athletic Administrator Denise Selbe, Ty Estes, Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach CEO Pam Estes, Laguna Beach Police Chief Jeff Calvert, Amy Calvert, Matthew Gerard and Laguna Art Museum Deputy Director Victoria Gerard
“I am grateful we are able to gather as a community for this longstanding event,” said event co-chair Shaheen Sheik-Sadhal. “We are excited to support our important mission for students and families while enjoying an entertaining evening filled with joy…and a few surprises!”
For more details about the Gala, go here.
SchoolPower is the parent volunteer-based, non-profit education foundation that has raised money for Laguna Beach public schools since 1981. Its mission is to enrich the education and support the well-being of all children in the Laguna Beach Unified School District. They achieve their mission by providing programs, raising funds and uniting the community in support of Laguna Beach students. Learn more about SchoolPower at https://lbschoolpower.org.
Awareness Ride, a local fundraiser, draws attention to National World Down syndrome Day
A local fundraiser is taking place on Tuesday, March 21 at Vessel Laguna Beach (previously Rhythm and Ride) from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. It’s a ride to raise awareness for Down syndrome on World Down syndrome Day, a day that’s celebrated all over the world. Proceeds go back to benefit the Dear Mom, organization, which helps provide resources, inspiration and community for countless moms raising a person with Down syndrome nationwide.
Twenty bikers will be riding to raise awareness and riding for this cause to support Dear Mom. Each bike is being sponsored by a local business, including Wall Reality Group, Vessel, Redefine, Pins and Wolf, and The Shop. They are still looking for business sponsors and donations to this event.
In addition, they are having raffles where you can purchase tickets.
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Photos by Ryan Wall
Creighton Wall and Stephanie Chapel, owner of Vessel Laguna Beach, leading the group at a previous Awareness Ride
Two Laguna Beach moms are helping put this awareness ride and fundraiser together, Ryan Wall and Faye Cartmale. This is going to be a fun local community event on such a special day with great meaning to the Down syndrome community.
To purchase raffle tickets and for more information on how you can support the event, go here. All funds raised directly support the nonprofit Dear Mom Conference.
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Rocco Keller and Pat Cary with the Laguna Beach Firefighters Association at a previous Awareness Ride Event celebrating National World Down syndrome Day
Save the Date: The Dear Mom Conference is coming back to Laguna Beach on Saturday, April 22. This annual event is for moms raising a person with Down syndrome. Hosted by Laguna Beach local Amy Amaradio, local resident and mother to Rocco Keller, who has Down syndrome, it will be held at the Festival of Arts and feature amazing speakers. They anticipate 350 moms from all over the world to attend, meeting other moms who are walking the same journey. It is Amaradio’s hope that the conference will inspire and uplift all the participating mothers. For more information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and visit www.dearmomco.com.
Vessel Laguna Beach is located at 821 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.
Ladies of Laguna show off hats to support the Laguna Beach Garden Club Annual Gate & Garden Tour
Photos by Mary Hurlbut
What if you went to a garden party and a tour broke out? That is the theme for this year’s much anticipated 19th Annual Gate & Garden Tour, a major fundraiser for educational school gardens & programs, local scholarships and community projects.
Some of the community’s most treasured “Ladies of Laguna” stepped up to help the town become excited for the newest twist at the 2023 Gate & Garden Tour. The club asked Sue Kempf (mayor pro tem), Debbie Neev (commissioner for the Laguna Beach County Water District), Dee Perry (Woman’s Club 2022 Woman of the Year), Anne Belyea (executive director of the Laguna Food Pantry) and Julia Abel Schwier (sales agent at Smith Group-Coldwell Banker Realty – event sponsor of the tour) to don their fancy hats and pose for some inspirational photos to heighten community excitement about entering the Garden Party Hat Contest on Saturday, May 6 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the tour’s host venue, the historic Laguna Beach County Water District building.
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(L-R) Mayor Pro Tem Sue Kempf and Commissioner for the Laguna Beach County Water District Debbie Neev
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(L-R) Woman’s Club 2022 Woman of the Year Dee Perry, Executive Director of the Laguna Food Pantry Anne Belyea and sales agent at Smith Group-Coldwell Banker Realty Julia Abel Schwier
Not only are these ladies all very accomplished in their own right, all have a common interest in their incredible love for Laguna Beach and a history of supporting the Laguna Beach Garden Club.
To enter the contest, check in at the registration table at the Gate & Garden Tour wearing your hat and have your picture taken before boarding the air-conditioned bus to whisk you off to view the gardens in this year’s selected neighborhood. All are welcome to enter – both males and females are encouraged to participate.
At 3 p.m., the judges will convene and choose from the photos in each of the following categories:
–Most Chic
–For the Birds
–Best Handmade Upcycled
In the first half of the 20th century, hats were a way to claim social status, but not anymore. In addition to providing excellent sun protection, hats show off the owner’s personality and entertain all who get to see them. Plus, nothing gets one in the mood for a garden party like a beautiful or creative hat.
The festive event will offer artisanal margaritas and Mexican fare for sale, as well as free delicious homemade baked goods and refreshments. Luxury VIP buses will transport you to the start of the tour where you will stroll through a masterfully curated set of gardens in a local neighborhood. In addition, you can enjoy plein air painters in several gardens.
A regular-timed entry ticket is available for $60 until April 29 and a VIP ticket is now available and includes flex-time entry plus one food ticket and one drink ticket for $80.
Gate & Garden Tour tickets are on sale now at www.lagunabeachgardenclub.org.
Just a reminder that they have sold out fours years consecutively, so don’t miss out on enjoying this memorable day.
Hortense Miller Garden to hold open house
Hortense Miller Garden is holding an open house on Saturday, March 25 from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. There will be continuous shuttle bus service from the parking lot of First Church of Christ Scientist at 635 High Drive, Laguna Beach.
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Photos courtesy of Hortense Miller Garden
Hortense Miller Garden features a 2.5-acre garden with more than a dozen unique trails and a mid-century modern home
A hidden Laguna gem, Hortense Miller Garden features a 2.5-acre garden with more than a dozen unique trails and a pristine mid-century modern home, built by Knowlton Fernald in 1958 on the slope of Boat Canyon. Tucked under towering Torrey pines, planted from one-gallon saplings in 1959, there are more than 1,000 plant species of which about 150 are California natives. The wondrous variety gives the garden color and texture during every season. The home’s walls of glass offer breathtaking ocean views. The original furnishings give the home a rare authenticity, fitting of a true Laguna artist.
There will be a free art workshop for children and sack lunches are permitted. A beekeeper talk takes place at 12 p.m.
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A plein-air painter capturing the beauty of the garden
Walking shoes are recommended and garden tours are offered every hour. The home will also be open to the public.
Books by Hortense Miller, as well as container gardens and garden art will be available for sale.
No reservation is necessary. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
For more information, visit www.hortensemillergarden.org, or call 949.374.2696.
Hortense Miller Garden is located at 22511 Allview Terrace, Laguna Beach.
Pageant of the Masters offering St. Patrick’s Day special
Searching for that little sunbeam of luck as St. Patrick’s Day approaches? The type of sunbeam that shines on a possible pot of gold, or gold piece, or maybe the Irvine Bowl in Laguna Beach? In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, art buffs can strike gold with a limited-time ticket offer to the Pageant of the Masters 2023 production of Art Colony: In the Company of Artists running July 7 through September 1.
Save some green with promo code GREEN23 for $45 Main Tier Side tickets to this summer’s Pageant – a $15 dollar savings per ticket. This offer is valid now through March 17 and is only redeemable for Monday-Thursday nights during the 2023 season. Pageant tickets are also season passes to this summer’s Festival of Arts Fine Art Show. Purchase tickets today at www.foa.com or call 800.487.3378.
“While we love our Irish traditions here at the Festival of Arts, instead of wearing green this St. Patrick’s Day we decided to SAVE our patrons some green,” said Festival of Arts Marketing and Public Relations Director Sharbie Higuchi. “We will be celebrating 90 years of living pictures this summer with a spectacular production. So, I encourage you to purchase your tickets early.”
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Courtesy of Festival of Arts Laguna Beach
“McSorley’s Bar,” painting by John Sloan (1912), to be re-created in the 2023 Pageant of the Masters
Each evening during the summer season, classic and contemporary works of art are faithfully re-created with theatrical illusion and real people posing as living pictures. The 2023 Pageant will impress audiences in its celebration of artists who have embraced communities where they can live and work, and most importantly, inspire one another. Highlighting the ways in which art reveals and reflects the world in which it was created, Art Colony: In the Company of Artists will be a ticket to thrills, laughter, beautiful music and extraordinary “living art” under the stars.
The 2023 Pageant of the Masters production, Art Colony: In the Company of Artists, will show nightly in the Irvine Bowl from July 7 through September 1. A Pageant ticket is also a season pass to the Fine Art Show. Weekday general admission tickets to the Festival’s Fine Art Show are $10 per person, and $15 per person the weekends, July 5 through September 1. To stay up to date on all things Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts, follow the Festival on social media at @FestivalPageant and visit www.foapom.com.
Pageant of the Masters is located on the Festival of Arts grounds at 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.
Keep your eyes on the road
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Photo by Scott Brashier
Be careful out there. Cars maneuver through the canyon, encountering an abundance of water on the roadways.
Police Beat Primer
Compiled by Suzie Harrison
Police Beat derives from information in the daily police and arrest logs published on the City of Laguna Beach’s website and required under CA Government Code Section 6254 (f). Additional information is obtained through communication with the Laguna Beach Police Department’s Public Information Officer.
Information in the logs is deemed reliable and Stu News Laguna is not responsible for any mistakes made available as public record by the Laguna Beach Police Department.
Any person arrested is innocent until found guilty in a court of law.
