Volume 11, Issue 13 | February 12, 2019

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Council majority agrees on four priorities for 2019By BARBARA DIAMOND

Presented with a list of 69 special projects, a council majority green-lighted four of themas priorities at a Strategic Planning Workshop, held Saturday at the Third Street Centers.

The goals for the workshop were prioritizing projects on the council’s to do-list; how bestto get them done in a more timely fashion; a better understanding between city staff and theCity Council to help achieve the priorities; a commitment from the council to stick with itspriorities and how to accomplish that.

“It’s like having a five-pound bag and 10 pounds of stuff,” said City Manager John Pietig.“Have the courage to say ‘Yes’ to our priorities and ‘No’ to other things. Be disciplined.”

The four special projects selected by a council majority included adoption of theDowntown Specific Plan; Major Development Projects, such as the long-overdue HistoricalPreservation Ordinance; Community Development Process Improvements and the Mayor’sFire Safety Subcommittee Plan.

Options were broken into three categories, printed and separated by color into Green forGo, Yellow for Slow and Red for Pause for a Year.

“You can’t do it all,” said Laguna Beach resident and workshop facilitator Jan Perkins. “Butyou can do some things. Stop worrying about what you can’t do. Do what you can this year andmove some to next year.”

The only changes in status were Councilman Peter Blake’s request to move an airconditioning ordinance and a change in handling design review appeals from yellow to greenand Councilwoman Toni Iseman’s suggestion to move Park Plaza from green to red for reviewafter traffic projects on South Coast Highway are completed.

Perkins set the ground rules for the workshop: listen, assume good intensions and stayfocused.

“Partnership is required,” she said. City department heads were each given five minutes for a presentation – except for

Community Development Director Greg Pfost, who had 30 minutes. Among the highlights: an overview, size of the department, its budget, key projects,

department strengths, weaknesses, opportunities for success and threats to success.Shohreh Dupuis is director of Public Works. She has a staff of 100 to 207, a majority of

them part time and a budget of $10.5 million.“We manage everything the public uses,” said Dupuis. “It is the largest department in the

city. The Village Entrance is our top priority.” However, the department is threatened by limited resources (money), vocal minority

requests leading to an inefficient use of resources, rising construction costs, utilityundergrounding costs and fire safety needs, DuPuis said.

Strategic Plans are a key to success. Chief of Police Laura Farinella plans to update theone she created for her department when she came to Laguna. Fire Chief Mike Garcia willcomplete what is believed to be the first one ever for his department.

Water Quality Department Director Dave Shissler expects to have a strategic plancompleted by April, assuming issues with the Moulton Niguel Water District have beenresolved. His department also is hampered by increasing levels of regional, state and federalregulations. For many folks, his biggest accomplishment since taking over the department wasthe elimination of the odors from the pump station near City Hall, with the same technology tobe installed in the facility at Calliope Street.

Water is also the focus for Marine Safety Chief Kevin Snow. The strength of thedepartment is the quality of the personnel, Snow said. Rescues and the Junior Lifeguardprogram are key accomplishments.

The Cultural Arts Department major projects include implementing the Cultural Arts Planand Arts Commission projects.

Finance Director Gavin Curran and City Treasurer Laura Parisi reviewed the city’s currentfinancial position – which is enviable – and its future, which inevitably will include recessions,for which the city has prudently designated funds.

Assistant City Manager Christa Johnson presented the report on the Community ServicesDepartment, which operates out of the Community Center. Duties range from approvingpermits for events and parking to overseeing the recreation classes.

Following a lunch break, Pfost reported that the Downtown Specific Plan revision isfinishing up, but must pass muster with the California Coastal Commission, where the ShortTerm Lodging Ordinance still languishes.

As for upcoming developments: “It is an exciting time,” said Post. “We have to be vigilant,but wow!”

Difficulties arise, he said, if the department tries to do too much. “Super projects take timefrom other projects,” he added.

Councilman Peter Blake opined that the stranglehold “political activists” have had overdevelopment for decades is over. However, Iseman said it is the passionate residents thatmake Laguna what it is.

Despite the wealth of information disseminated, the workshop concluded about an hourearlier than the six hours allotted.

Perkins will prepare a report to the council on the workshop, which will be on a futureagenda, date currently undetermined.

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Council picks prioritiesBy BARBARA DIAMOND

Council members were handed orange dots and instructed to stick them on the fivepreferred projects out of the 69 presented at the Strategic Planning Workshop on Saturday.

Two projects received four of the sticky dots, identifying them as council priorities. MayorBob Whalen, Mayor Pro Tem Steve Dicterow and newly elected council members Peter Blakeand Sue Kempf greenlighted Major Developments, which are expected to start showing up thisyear and be as complicated as the development of the Montage.

Dicterow, Kempf, Whalen and Blake also dotted Community Development ProcessImprovements.

Both will also be reviewed by the California Coastal Commission.Kempf, Whalen and Blake opted to choose the adoption of the Downtown Specific Plan.

Whalen, Kempf and Councilwoman Toni Iseman made the Mayor’s Fire Safety SubcommitteePlan a priority.

Blake and Dicterow cast the two votes for a Main Beach/Heisler Park/Downtown policeupdate to be prioritized. Dicterow and Iseman gave the nod to the proposed Police Departmentupdate of the 2015 strategic plan. Iseman and Whalen opted for the Fire Department StrategicPlan, which City Manager John Pietig said would be the first one since he came to the city.

Iseman was the sole supporter of bumping up an Information Technology Master Plan toa priority. Dicterow’s orange dot was the lone sticker for Major Remodel and Bluff TopRegulations to make the cut. Kempf, who suffered through the numerous hearings on HistoricPreservation Ordinance as a Planning Commissioner before her election to the council,decided it was long past time to put it to bed.

Projects were separated by color: 1-25 in the green, 26-51 in the yellow block, and 52-69in red.

All of the projects in the green section are expected to be completed or advancing asplanned this year. Projects in the yellow section will not get as speedy a resolution. Those inthe red are earmarked for next year.

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The Unbelievable Backstory Behind Michael Minutoli,Laguna’s gregarious greeter

Story by MARRIE STONEPhotos by Mary Hurlbut

June 20, 2011 began like any other day for Michael Minutoli. He went to work at MarbellaFarmers Market in San Juan Capistrano, where he called himself a delitician, slicing meatsand making sandwiches. He entertained his customers with fantastic stories and freesamples, because Michael tries to make every day fun.

Chef Curtis Stone toAppear at Laguna

Beach Taste of theNation on May 5

The 12th Annual Laguna BeachTaste of the Nation, a much-anticipated culinary event, will beheld on Sunday, May 5, atMontage Laguna Beach. Theafternoon brings another stellarlineup of great chefs, sponsors,and beverage participantsincluding Curtis Stone,Australian celebrity chef andwell-known food television star.

The event benefits Share OurStrength’s No Kid Hungry,raising funds needed to endchildhood hunger across theU.S.

Laguna Beach Taste of theNation is one in a national seriesfeaturing culinary creationscrafted by the country’s mostcelebrated and generous chefs,sommeliers, and mixologists,united to ensure all children inAmerica have access to dailynutritious meals. One hundredpercent of proceeds support theNo Kid Hungry campaign’s workto end childhood hunger inAmerica.

South Coast WaterDistrict announces PSA

Video ScholarshipContest

Every year, South Coast WaterDistrict awards scholarships to highschool students who live in theDistrict’s service area. For 2019, thescholarship will be a PSA VideoContest. The contest challengesstudents to create a video thateducates people about water.

The winning videos will be shown onsocial media channels (Facebook,Twitter, Instagram, Next Door,YouTube), and could be shown onvarious websites or Public Access TV.

Once he got off work that afternoon, he met his two buddies – a street preacher fromConnecticut and a homeless guitarist from Boston – at the Main Beach Starbucks, a bag of theday’s unsold paninis in hand. After finishing his coffee, Michael stood up and said, “I’m goingto start saying hi to the city.” His pals looked confused. Michael walked out to the juncture ofForest and Park Avenues and PCH, in front of Chantilly Ice Cream, and began to wave as thecars whooshed past. That day marked the birth of Laguna’s fourth greeter.

Click on photo for a larger imageLaguna’s fourth greeter, Michael Minutoli

Some folks around town doubted Michael’s resolve. “I’ll give you ‘til lunchtime,” a localpostman told him. A policeman threatened to cite him several times. “I don’t like what you’redoing here,” he told Michael. A stranger assaulted him, coming up from behind and dealing asignificant blow to the top of Michael’s head. Michael took it all in stride. His two friendsfollowed him, supporting him from the sidelines every day, telling him, “Go for it, Michael!” Sohe kept waving at passing cars, shaking pedestrians’ hands, and dancing to his own beat.

There are many things most people don’t know about Michael. The dancing man on thecorner, with his wild costumes and sometimes striking face paint, has a story you might notbelieve.

Growing up MinutoliMichael was born in Attleboro, Massachusetts, the tenth of 10 children – three sisters and

six brothers – on December 2, 1959. With a family so large, there wasn’t an abundance of timeor money, and Michael wasn’t burdened by a lot of supervision. As the last kid, he spent themost time with his dad. “I grew up in barrooms, laundromats, and racetracks,” he says. Hisdad liked to gamble – dogs or horses, it didn’t matter much. Michael describes his mother as acreative eccentric, a beauty and a natural entertainer. His father, Michael says, looked likeHumphrey Bogart. “I probably got my social skills from my dad,” he says. “And my personalityfrom my mother.”

But before Michael could come of age, tragedy struck. When he was only 11, Michael losthis brother, Anthony. What his family mistook for seizures were actually a series of small heartattacks. The doctor gave surgery 50/50 odds. His parents opted out. Anthony would suffer hisfinal heart attack at age 12, while playing with his friends. “I should have been there,” Michaelsays.

Click on photo for a larger imageMichael’s difficult childhood may have informed the man he became

Anthony’s memory lives on in Michael’s own son, who’s named after Anthony, as well asMichael’s grandson – also Anthony.

What losing a sibling does to a child, and his family, is impossible to calculate. Michael’sfather spiraled in grief. His mother would live only another seven years. Whether thoseexperiences taught Michael to embrace life, take risks, seize opportunities, and live big – whocan say? But loss rarely comes without consequence.

The red carpet crasherWhen Michael mentioned his hobby was crashing parties, I pictured local shindigs –

beach barbeques or pool parties, swiping hotdogs and beer. I didn’t imagine Oscars,Grammys, Golden Globes, celebrity post-parties, and movie premieres.

In 1989, Michael made his way backstage at a Madonna concert. He hobnobbed with thesinger and got his picture with her. Since then, crashing celebrity parties became anobsession. He has photos of himself with over 1,200 stars (that count, taken over a decadeago, is surely stale). A quick Google search shows Michael posing with Barbra Streisand, Billand Hillary Clinton, Tom Cruise, Tom Hanks, Lady Gaga, Lindsay Lohan, Ben Stiller, HenryKissinger, Kiefer Sutherland, Michael Jackson, Bono…you get the point.

Michael shared the stage with Grammy winner André 3000 of OutKast, holding the goldenstatue while André accepted the award. He jumped on top of Billy Joel’s piano as Joelperformed with Elton John. Madonna and Elizabeth Taylor both kissed him.

Michael became notorious enough to earn himself profiles in The New York Times, L.A.Times, OC Weekly, and a spot on The Today Show.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Australian Celebrity ChefCurtis Stone to participate

Host chefs Benjamin Martinekof Studio and Executive PastryChef Lee Smith of MontageLaguna Beach are excited towelcome Australian celebritychef and international televisionpersonality Curtis Stone to itsevent, as well as XavierSolomon, executive chef atrecently opened Montage LosCabos. Other guest chefs willsoon be announced.

Overlooking the Pacific, guestswill savor delicious bite-sizedgourmet delicacies prepared bysome of the region’s best chefs,along with fine wines, craftcocktails, and desserts.Highlights of the event are a veryexciting live auction and after-party with more bites andlibations.

National co-presenters Citi andSysco support Laguna BeachTaste of the Nation for No KidHungry®, with national mediasponsor Food Network andnational sponsor OpenTable.

Ticket are $250 per person forgeneral admission (from 3 to7:30 p.m.) and $275 for VIPadmission (from 2:30 to 7:30p.m.)

Additional information can befound here.

The Montage Laguna Beach islocated at 30801 South CoastHwy.

Click on photo for a larger imageThe last scene must feature theSouth Coast Water District logo

The contest is open to junior andsenior high school students who livein South Coast Water District’s(SCWD) service area. Entries can be agroup or individual effort. There is alimit to one entry per group andperson.

Applicants must produce a PSA(public service announcement) – avideo between 60 seconds to twominutes explaining the importance ofwater reliability or where our watercomes from.

Before applying, call or emailCustomer Service at (949) 499-4555ext. 1, to verify that you live in SCWD’sservice area and are eligible to apply.Applications from students who do notlive in the District’s service areacannot be accepted. SCWD’s servicearea includes South Laguna, DanaPoint, Capistrano Beach, parts of SanJuan Capistrano, and San Clemente.

A 2019 South Coast Water DistrictScholarship Entry & Release Formmust accompany each videosubmitted.

All entries must be student-created.The entry may not contain anycopyrighted material of any medium(music, images, etc.) and noprofessional assistance is allowed.Such use will result in an automaticdisqualification.

The last scene must feature theSouth Coast Water District Logo(please do not modify the logo from itsoriginal form) and the text.

A committee using the followingcriteria will judge entries:

--Incorporation of theme message--Production quality--Entertainment value--Creativity/originalityScholarship Awards include:--1st Place: $2,500--2nd Place: $1,000--3rd Place: $750--1st Place Winner’s School Bonus:

$500--School with the Most Entries: $250The deadline is May 13; winners will

be notified in June.For more information, visit

www.scwd.org.

Click on photo for a larger imageMichael infuses everything he does with unstoppable energy

The 2008 documentary Crash Artist: Beyond the Red Carpet tells Michael’s tale. It’s a filmin equal measure entertaining and tragic, portraying a fun-loving guy brimming with stories,star sightings, and celebrity photos, but who also lost a great deal in the process.

Unlike Laguna’s previous greeters, Michael was once a family man. In ninth grade, hemet his one life love, Debbie, at a church social in Attleboro. They moved together fromMassachusetts to Orange County on Valentine’s Day, 1980. Here they had their two children.

Anthony and Ashley grew up shadowing their dad. They posed with stars, and saw all thelatest movies before their friends.

Now that Michael’s children are grown, they sometimes struggle to understand their dad’schoices, according to Minutoli. But their faces light up talking about all those fantastic childhoodmemories too, he says.

Michael’s unconventional lifestyle – his obsession with crashing parties, his difficultyholding steady employment, and his decision to live homeless – ultimately cost him hismarriage and access to much of his family, he says. But Michael sees this as choice, insteadof loss. For him, homelessness is a decision and one that he accepts. He’s neitherpanhandler nor substance abuser. But he’s happily traded conformity, security, and materialpossessions for life lived on his own terms and the impact he can make on the street.

While that might mean losing touch with family, he’s in constant contact with theeveryman. That’s a theme that unites Laguna’s greeters.

The making of a greeterAre Laguna’s greeters born or made? The question, though never overtly addressed,

nonetheless underlies the 2015 documentary The Greeter. The film traces the nearly 130-year history of greeters – four men united by their

eccentricities and a passion for making people smile. Old Joe Lucas, Laguna’s first, was aPortuguese fisherman who greeted stagecoaches instead of cars. He began in 1880, the yearafter Orange County was incorporated, holding a trident instead of a staff. Eiler Larsen, themost iconic and celebrated of the bunch, didn’t arrive in Laguna until 1942. He came fromDenmark to pursue his “mission of friendliness,” which lasted until his death in 1975. No. 1Unnamed Archer got his name for being the firstborn twin (his brother, No. 2). He was knownfor telling people they were “perfect.” Michael assumed the mantle two years after No. 1’spassing, in 2011, and has held it since.

Click on photo for a larger imageMichael, posing with a statue of Eiler Larsen, has made the job his own

Uniting these unlikely men are a few commonalities. They’re all a little eccentric. They alldesired connection, and wanted to shake people out of their monotonous routines to see eachother in a different light. They all felt called to the position.

Changing lives – one smile and wave at a timeMichael says he’s learned a lot about humanity in the past eight years. “Humans love to

love, and they love to be loved,” he says. “You have no idea what a smile and a wave can do fora stranger.” Three stories stand out among the many.

One Newport Beach woman had been on the receiving end of Michael’s waves for a longtime. One day, she handed him an envelope and asked him not to open it until she’d gone. Thewoman confessed she’d been going through difficult times, and had considered taking her life,but it was her connection to Michael that stopped her.

Another couple gave Michael a bird colonel coin of recognition (an honor usually reservedfor military men).

Timothy Vorenkamp, an 18-year-old Laguna volleyball star who died of a rare bone cancerin 2016, put lunch with Michael on his short bucket list. He wanted to understand Michael’sunwavering positivity, and “what made him tick.” It wasn’t a wish Tim could fulfill, but Michaelstill does a fundraiser for Tim’s “Live for Others” foundation each year.

This is as close as we can cometo actually singing to ourreaders on their birthdays!

We’d love to include yours –and/or your children’s birthdayshere.

Just email to:editor@stunewslaguna.com

Celebrate and enjoy your

birthday!

February 12Cori LambertDennis MyersErin Burris

Jane HanauerPaul Freeman

Tom Klingenmeier

February 13Beverly Barnes

David VanderveenDon James

Fernanda RochaHorst Noppenberger

Jon AshforthMartha DavisShari Beckett

February 14Caroline HigginsClaudine Corr

Jim Otto

Library EventsFebruaryWed, Feb 13

Techy Storytime with Ms. Niloo 11 – 11:30 a.m.

Stories are important. That’s why Ms.Niloo combined storytime withtechnology to introduce Techy

Storytime. The program combinesiPads, Apple TV, and occasionally the

3D printer to make it fun andeducational.

Wed, Feb 133-D Printing Workshop

3 – 5 p.m.Schedule a 20-minute session with

the library’s 3-D printer. Customize anobject using software and prepare it

for printing. Staff will print the item andcontact you when it is ready for pickup.Space is limited, so pre-registration is

required. Consult the library foravailable times, or for more

information ask a staff member. Signup at the check-out desk.

Thurs, Feb 14Family Storytime

10:30 a.m. – Noon Welcome to the Peapod Academy.

Join some of the cutest babies,toddlers, and preschoolers in town

and adults of their choice at the library.Little peas will enjoy books &

storytime, songs & music, fingerplays,movement, hands on activities, arts &crafts, and other cadets. Each weekhas a different theme. Get to knowothers and support your little one’s

developmental skills. No pre-registration required.

Thurs, Feb 14Valentine Workshop

3:30 – 4:30 p.m.Join the library for a one-hour

Valentine Workshop, and make aValentine craft for your special

Click on photo for a larger imageMichael captured in a quiet moment of reflection

But then there are the cruel. “Some people like to humiliate me,” he says. “They throwthings, sometimes they hit me. I don’t react.” Michael recently met with Father O’Gorman – whoboth baptized and married Michael and Debbie in 1984 – to help him through the hostility heexperiences on the street. “You’ve taken on a very mystical, spiritual, symbolic thing in thistown,” Father O’Gorman told Michael, offering a prayer of protection. “Don’t you worry. You werechosen to do this.”

Michael grew up Catholic. He describes himself as mystical and spiritual, and says he’saccepted Jesus as his savior. He sees meaning in dates and numbers. He’s no believer incoincidence, and quick to draw cosmic connections. Father O’Gorman’s observations werewhat Michael needed.

“That helped me with the opposition,” says Michael. “I read somewhere that the moreopposition you have, it means you’re important and doing something very special. It doesn’tcome without [consequences].”

The next morning, Michael felt like a new man. “I don’t do this for fame,” he says. “I give itall I’ve got. I don’t wear sunglasses because I want to look people in the eyes. I’ve got to bereal on that corner. I deal with families, the elderly, and everything in between. I’m overwhelmedby it.” At least one encounter causes Michael to cry every day. He’s a sensitive guy, and the jobtakes an emotional toll.

Is that dancing or Russian roulette?If you’ve lived in Laguna long enough, you might remember Michael as the man who

danced with waves down on Main Beach. For years, he took long runs in the wet sand with hisWalkman, jumping – fully clothed and frenetic – into the ocean. He favored full moons. Hisshadow, as one local described it, looked like it was dancing on the water. “On warm nights,the shore breaks are really big,” Michael says in the The Greeter. “I follow the high tides andplay Russian roulette with the shore breaks.”

Did Michael dance with the waves or play Russian roulette with them? That tensionseems present in everything he does. Did Michael party with Hollywood’s stars, or tempt theevent staff to bust him? Did he lose his family or gain a whole town? Is he greeting or gamblingas he draws cheers and occasional scorn?

Click on photo for a larger imageGreeter or gambler, Michael has fun playing with his audience

Recently, someone threw a takeout container from a moving car at Michael – anuntouched burger sealed inside a clear plastic carton. It hit the curb and exploded at his feet.But as Michael describes it, the scene was beautiful. The plastic caught the streetlight,illuminating the lettuce and tomato. “It would have made such a beautiful picture,” he says, “ifsomeone was there to capture it.”

That sums Michael up – a man who chooses to turn ugly moments into beautiful ones,and sees light in other people’s darkness. One person’s risk is another man’s reward.

The greeters’ Rorschach testMaybe Laguna’s greeters are Rorschach tests for our town. They reflect our joys and they

mirror our fears. Laguna is either a small town of bohemians and eccentrics, or we’re aswanky city on California’s golden coast. We’re an artistic mecca or a quaint throwback. We’rehippies and entrepreneurs. We’re homeless. We’re billionaires. We’re idealists and we’rejaded. We’re beach bums. We’re celebrities. We’re accepting and we’re suspicious.

It’s hard to look at Michael and not be impacted – he’s that kind of guy. Most of us, oncewe’ve watched Michael a few times, are endeared by his charms, won over by his warmth, anduplifted by his energy. He’s quintessential Laguna – beautiful and baffling and complicated.

John ReinhardtLori McBride

Marsha BensonRona GrometSami Behzad

February 15Jodie GatesLinda Rushing

February 16George Lawton

Mary Gretchen Schmidt

February 17Blade Nunez

Delphine BerryhillGarrett Brennan Turner

Kara CalannioPhilip Von Wrede

Rich ManningSue Parsons BeckSuzie HarrisonTracy Newton

February 18Beth FhanerBettina Rey

Nicholas Hernandez (Sr.)

February 19Kevin AnawatiMichele Barr

Michelle St. AmourRob WhalleyTim Moran

someone. Everyone is invited to aValentine celebration filled with crafts,

dancing, and refreshments. Thisprogram is free, no registration is

required.

Fri, Feb 15LOCA Arts Education

3:30 – 4:30 p.m.This is a hands-on workshop taught

by professional artists from LOCA ArtsEducation. The class is limited to 12

participants in third through fifthgrades. The class will be using

printmaking techniques. Gather at thelibrary at 3:15 p.m. Latecomers maynot be admitted. Preregistration is

required. Call the library at (949) 497-1733 or stop by to sign up. The

program is free, sponsored by city ofLaguna Beach.

Sat, Feb 16Children’s Craft Open House

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.Get creative and let your imagination

run wild! Children under 12 areencouraged to come to the library

during the hours of 9 am to 3 pm tomake fun and creative seasonal

crafts. Adult supervision isrecommended.

Wed, Feb 13Techy Storytime

10 – 11 a.m.Stories are important. That’s why thelibrary has combined storytime with

technology to introduce TechyStorytime. The program combines

iPads, Apple TV, and occasionally the3D printer to make it fun and

educational.

Sat, Feb 16Poetry Workshop

2 – 4 p.m.Participants should bring 10 copies of

a poem they wish to have read andworkshopped. Each poem will be read

by the poet and perhaps by anotherreader. Participants then respond withemphasis on positive comments and

constructive suggestions.Recommended for advanced poets –this is not a workshop for beginners.

Meets in the Community Room.Contact Mike Sprake at (714) 318-

1461 or email atmikesprake@gmail.com for more

information.

Mon, Feb 18Holiday Closure

Mon, Feb 19Math at the Laguna Beach Library

3:30 – 4:30 p.m.After the successful Bedtime Math:

Crazy 8’s program, the Laguna BeachLibrary designed a series of fun math

activities for kids K-2nd grade.

2

Sky imitates the sea

Click on photo for a larger imagePhoto by Mary Hurlbut

The sky is a strange reflection of the ocean, blue with clouds like the foam of a wavebreaking

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PMMC announces development of new app, Seal SpotterPacific Marine Mammal Center is excited to announce that through a 10-week

collaboration with engineering students at the UCI Department of Informatics, the nonprofit hassuccessfully developed and launched a new application called Seal Spotter.

This app, which is available on both android and iOS platforms, will allow users to takeand upload pictures as well as answer questions about tagged animals that have beenspotted in the wild. This will give PMMC a greater ability to track patients from any rehabilitationcenter and keep tabs on their success after release.

Sound SpectrumFaves

1. Timothy Leary, Turn On, TuneIn, Drop Out2. Thundercat, Drank3. Childish Gambino, Awaken MyLove

Click on photo for a larger image4. D’Angelo, Black Messiah 5. Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody6. Kasey Musgraves, GoldenHour7. Mac Miller, Swimming

Click on photo for a larger image8. Lady Gaga, A Star Is Born9. Chris Cornell, Life & Legacy10. D’Angelo,Voodoo11. Queen, Greatest Hits 12. Neil Young, Songs For Judy13. Imagine Dragons, Origin

Since 19671264 S. Coast Hwy

949-494-5959

City of Laguna Beachinvites community to

pledge to #BeAGreeterin 2019

Be a greeter and don’t bully people.Include them. Don’t exclude.

The City of Laguna invites residentsto join in the #BeAGreeter movementby taking the City’s Greeter Pledgeand standing up to bullying.

Laguna Beach has a long history ofgreeting one another. For over onehundred years, Laguna has hadofficial and unofficial greeterswelcoming residents with a wave anda smile. Neighbors greet one anotherat our community gatherings,Hospitality Night, the Patriots DayParade, and the Brooks Street SurfingClassic Contest.

Here are some ways you can be agreeter and encourage kindness inour City:

Take the Greeter Pledge, whichsays, “I pledge to follow the GreeterPrinciples by being friendly,welcoming, open-minded, andrespectful. I will greet people with asmile. I will have the compassion notto be a bully, and the courage not to bea bystander. I will make a positivedifference in my community.”

Pledging also asks the question,“How will you make a positivedifference in your community?” and“How will you work to end bullying?”

Here are some examples of how to#BeAGreeter:

Paint a rock with a reassuringmessage and place it somewhere intown people will find it (in a park, on atrail, at a playground). Take a photo ofit for Instagram and include thehashtag #RockOnLB. The #RockOnLBmovement encourages people toleave rocks painted with inspiringmessages along the path of life. Younever know when a kind word couldmake a world of difference in

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

New Seal Spotter app will help PMMC track seals after they are released back into the wildThis project is a fantastic example of accomplishing both research and conservation

together. It allowed the UCI students to apply their theoretical learning in a real world scenarioas part of their curriculum, while allowing PMMC to develop new technology on a meagerbudget through the talent and ingenuity of the students.

Not only will the app be beneficial to the students’ resumes and help PMMC extend its’research efforts, it also has features that allow users to learn about marine mammal lifehistory and conservation.

The application can be downloaded from both the Google Play and iTunes stores.PMMC offers a special thank you to all of the hard work done by the Seal Spotter team:

Lisa Joseph, Ben Truong, Matt Marano, William Khaine, Lizzy Thorpe, Emily Navarro, ColbyHollabaugh, Kirsten Donald, and Keith Matassa.

Pacific Marine Mammal Center rescues, rehabilitates, and releases marine mammals.PMMC inspires ocean stewardship through research, education, and collaboration. For moreinformation, visit www.pacificmmc.org.

Pacific Marine Mammal Center is at 20612 Laguna Canyon Rd, one block north of DogPark.

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Rain reflections Photos by Scott Brashier

Click on photo for a larger imageStoplights cast an eerie reflection on the street

LBHS SchedulesVarsity

•••••Tuesday, Feb 12

Boys TennisHome vs. Mater Dei

3 p.m.

Boys BaseballElks Tournament

vs. Cerritos3:15 p.m.

•••••Wednesday, Feb 13

Girls Water Polo2nd Round CIF

Foothill @ William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center

7 p.m.

•••••Thursday, Feb 14

Boys LacrosseScrimmage@ El Toro

5 p.m.

•••••Saturday, Feb 16

Boys Volleyball@ Tesoro Tournament

TBA

Boys BaseballElks Tournament

@ Whittier11 a.m.

•••••

someone’s day.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Paint an inspiring message on a rockas a gesture of kindness this yearExemplify the Principles of a Greeter

in your everyday life: Be friendly,welcoming, open-minded, respectful,and greet people with a smile.

Include people, don’t exclude.Practice being a good upstander andspread compassion wherever you go– remember, kindness is contagious!

After you take the pledge, stop by theCommunity and Susi Q Center toclaim a free #BeAGreeter sticker,available while supplies last. Put it onyour car, water bottle, laptop orsurfboard and spread the word aboutthe #BeAGreeter mission.

For more information about takingthe Greeter Pledge, go towww.lagunabeachcity.net/cityhall/community/be_a_greeter.htm

For information about #RockOnLB,go to www.litlaguna.com/ROCKONLB.

For more information about AbilityAwareness Project, visit www.kindandsafeschools.org. Thegroup’s mission is to build a unitedinterconnected world, free of bullying,and their vision is to ensure thateveryone is respectful and kind to oneanother and that no one suffers fromsocial isolation and bullying.

Click on photo for a larger imageView from a hill

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Dennis’ TidbitsBy DENNIS McTIGHEFebruary 12, 2019

Winter’s wrath crosses our pathAs of 9 p.m. on Sunday evening, Laguna’s rainfall for the season is now

up to 12.96 inches, only an inch shy of the whole season’s normal totaland more is on the way. We’ll more than likely surpass that figure withina couple of days and close in on that 20-inch total when all is said anddone.

Hawaii is really getting hammered by huge waves and winds andrains. The huge waves aren’t being ridden on the North and Westshores because the winds are pretty much howling out of the west andnorthwest, so it’s Victory at Sea conditions.

Some sets are topping 60 feet or higher. It only gets that big aboutonce a decade on the average. It’s usually 20 feet at some time most

winters. The big ones occurred on December 3, 1958. The granddaddy of them all wasDecember 4, 1969. Then there was January 1975, the most consistent winter in 1982-83, andmost recently, December of 2009.

No one is escaping winter’s wrath except Florida where it’s generally quiet with lots ofsunshine and temps around 80.

At some point in my life before I check out of this hotel, I’d love to tag along with the AirForce meteorologist’s Hurricane Hunters on one of their fleet of nine C-130 aircraft that fly outof Keesler Air Force Base out of Biloxi, Mississippi. They fly right into any tropical system if it isthreatening a landmass between the Texas Coast and Maine, and coming out of the Atlantic orCaribbean. They fly right into the eye of the hurricane to collect data in an attempt to predictwhere a particular storm will make landfall well in advance so people will make necessarypreparations before the system’s onslaught. What a rush that would be!

I’ve already realized my dream of tornado chasing in Oklahoma years ago. I thrive onsevere weather to witness the energy and power of it all.

See y’all on Friday, Aloha!

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After the rain Photos by Marielena Verdugo

Click on photo for a larger imageThe downside of rain, a muddy mess in the canyon

Click on photo for a larger imageThe upside of rain, gorgeous sky and hills

Click on photo for a larger imageSandbags galore

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Love was in the air – sort of – during the performance ofMy Ridiculous Valentine at No Square Theatre

Story and photos by DIANNE RUSSELLOf course, any play celebrating Valentine’s Day must include songs like “Love is in the

Air,” but how often do you see a grown man dressed up as cupid? Only at No Square Theatre, Isuspect.

Friday night’s performance of My Ridiculous Valentine was hilarious from the openingsong, “Love is in the Air,” performed by Joe Lauderdale in full cupid regalia, to the last note ofthe finale. The play is described as “A ridiculous cabaret. Becausenot every romance is pretty. Some are pretty funny.” The brilliant cast proved that to be true.

Click on photo for a larger imageJoe Lauderdale as Cupid

My Ridiculous Valentine was created and directed by Bree Burgess Rosen and RoxannaWard (who had a delightful repartee with the audience while at the piano), and included adeliciously talented cast – Eric Anderson, Rebecca Butkivich, Claire Day (McClug), KellyGoldstein, Gary Greene, Rob Harryman, Pat Kollenda, Joe Lauderdale, Marc Marger, KristenMatson, Steven McIntosh, and Ella Wyatt – who gave the audience both the traditional and theflip side of love.

Click on photo for a larger imagePat Kollenda reprises “I’m Tired” from the movie Blazing Saddles

Fellow writer from Stu News, Marrie Stone, said, “No Square Theatre is Laguna’s hiddengem. How have I lived here 20 years without knowing much about it?! And My RidiculousValentine was the perfect way to discover it. The humor and talent of the cast had me laughingall night. And the intimacy of the venue made me feel part of the action.”

Click on photo for a larger imageBree Rosen sings “Making Love Alone”

Marrie continues, “From the moment Roxanna Ward walked on stage, I rarely stoppedlaughing. Pat Kollenda’s ‘I’m Tire’” is still on autoplay in my head, and – three days later –continues to make me smile. There’s nothing better than laughing over love, sex, andromance. From stalking to masochism to ‘self-love,’ no topic was off the table, and each onewas funnier than the last. Rated IM – for the most immature of mature audiences.”

Click on photo for a larger imageCast during finale and bows

Gail Landau, founder of Catmosphere Laguna, said of the performance, “Bree Rosen andher troupe are so talented and such a delight to watch, as well as hear. The show is as muchvisual as it is musical”.

My Ridiculous Valentine was a ruckus – irreverently unromantic – and ridiculouslyentertaining.

No Square Theatre is located at 384 Legion, (949) 715-0333.The next production is Lagunatots, which will run from March 15-24.For more information, visit www.nosquare.org.

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DeMarco-Barrett’s writers wow the crowd at Laguna BeachBooks for ninth consecutive year

By Lynette BrasfieldBarbara DeMarco-Barrett, author of Los Angeles Times bestseller Pen on Fire, is well-

known locally for her private writing workshops, which have produced several publishedauthors and inspired dozens of writers over the years.

And for the ninth consecutive year, members of two of her writing groups, Literary Posseand Writers’ Block Party, read excerpts from their work at Laguna Beach Books.

Danielle Bauter of LBB says, “As an independent bookstore, we are always happy to hostBarbara’s writing workshops and other local writing groups such as Third Street Writers. Welove supporting local writers, especially those who are also our devoted customers. It hasbeen a pleasure seeing the same faces over the years and listening to their stories. We thriveon being a community gathering place here in Laguna.”

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Writers wowed the crowd at Laguna Beach Books on Sunday eveningLiterary Posse member Jennifer Irani read an inspirational and moving piece about a bird

named Homer (a homing pigeon, naturally) that helped her cope with her mother’s death. And Marla J Noel’s sad, sweet essay about her mother’s struggle with Alzheimer’s

brought the audience to tears.Hilarity was also the order of the day: Rosalia Mattern’s awesome essay on her sister’s

propensity to utter “complisults” – comments that at first seem to offer compliments, but also

contain a sting – was a funny yet loving look at, as Rosalia noted, “my sister’s bad habits andwhat they have done to me.”

Two of her sister’s “greatest hits”: “Your picture was beautiful. It doesn’t look like you at all”and “I’m glad you’re working out. I knew you’d look better if you lost a little weight.”

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Mike Conlon reads from his novel-in-progress, TracksWry humor was beautifully deployed in Larissa Chiari-Keith’s meditation on being

married, as a white woman, to one of the very few black men in Orange County. TitledSearching for a Multicultural Santa, the piece was alive with anecdotes that gave insight intoher family’s experience – and how they are still sometimes regarded as curiosities.

One example: “Sometimes people pet my (mixed-race) children as if they are sheep,” shesaid.

An insightful piece indeed.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Larissa provided rare insights for a rapt audienceAnd Stu News’ own Dianne Russell, a published short story writer, read her beautifully

written contemplation on the power of words – and how we might choose each of them somuch more carefully if we knew we had only a limited quota in our lifetimes.

“The other day,” she said, “I thought I had finally run out of words.” (Which is not good for awriter as talented as Dianne – fortunately for her readers, she hadn’t.) “That’s what inspiredthis piece.”

“My students work hard and have been getting published in magazines and journals. Theyget book deals. At some point they will be required to do a reading and there’s no time like thepresent to practice,” DeMarco-Barrett noted.

"Readings are also a great way to bring family and friends into your writing world."

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Rumari’s Amoré lasts through February with special menuStory by DIANE ARMITAGE

Photos by Diane Armitage and Ristorante RumariHeading into my dining review last week, I circled the block a couple times before I

realized there was a spot right there in front of the restaurant. I whipped into the space, put thecar in park and gathered my camera, notebook, purse and key to make my exit.

At the sound of a man’s raised voice, I glanced up to see a waiter from the restaurant standingoutside my car, raising his voice at me.

“What are ya doing?” he said, flapping his arms a bit. “This is an alley way. You can’t parkhere.” Finishing with a larger sweep of his arms and an exasperated shrug he turned back intothe restaurant.

Although mortified at my rather blonde move, I had to chuckle. I was, indeed, at the frontdoor of our town’s clearly authentic Italian landmark, Ristorante Rumari. I know I’ve found myway home.

Authentic, From the Food to the LoveRistorante Rumari is as Italian as they come because…well…they’re Italian. Fabulously

Italian at that.

Click on photo for a larger imagePhoto by Mehri Photography

Ristorante Rumari’s Proprietor Vince CrivelloFor more than 30 years, Chef Proprietor Vince Crivello has doled out consistently great

food, friendly family-like service, and rational advice and perspective that has endeared him toLaguna locals and repeat visitors.

Here, the faces rarely change.Here, there’s a good chance you’re still going to find your favorite menu item, even if you

haven’t made it back for a year. One of my good friends, Don, splits his time between Vail and Laguna Beach, having

spent his boyhood summers here with family. For about 20 years, he has only orderedRumari’s Linguine Nere Del Mare, a black linguine pasta baked in foil with clams, shrimp,tomato sauce, and brandy. Asking him to try another menu option is akin to asking him toswitch political party lines.

Fortunately, the renowned dish is always there on the menu, and it always tastes as goodas he remembers.

To be quite honest, I find myself repeatedly ordering Rumari’s Rack of Lamb special forthe same reason. As long as they continue to cook up that amazing dish, I’ll be returning for yetanother 20 years to order it.

A Special Menu Through FebruaryLast Thursday night, though, I was on a different mission. For the entire month of February, on Sundays through Thursdays, Rumari’s is offering a

“That’s Amoré” Prix Fixe menu with a glass of house wine or Prosecco for $45/person. This particular menu is not being offered on Valentine’s Day (this Thursday, Feb 14), but

it’s certainly worth the visit otherwise.The prix fixe menu is a generous one, allowing you to choose from four popular

appetizers, four entrées and three desserts. And – maybe the best part of all – their homemadefocaccia bread is served with the meal, too. Vince’s father, Antonio (“Nino”), is the creator of thefamed focaccia, and carefully taught Vince its secrets to success before Vince, in turn, passedthe vaunted recipe to Executive Chef Jaime Ocampo.

From Crisp Appetizer to Decadent Dessert

Click on photo for a larger imageRumari’s Mozzarella Caprese

It’s a busy Thursday evening, so I stick to the basics of the prix fixe options, starting withthe Mozzarella Caprese. It’s a big dish with 4 thick-cut tomato slices piled with freshmozzarella, slivers of basil, and a tidy crown of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s fresh and sublime, thesun-dried addition adding a bit of salty chew to the mix.

Three protein-oriented entrée options range from spaghetti in meat sauce with vealmeatballs (Spaghetti Al Ragu Con Polpetine), a boneless chicken breast basted in tomatosauce and topped with roasted peppers, onions and black olives (Pollo Siciliana), and PennePasta with salmon and mushrooms in a tomato-cream sauce. A fourth vegetarian option offers house made ravioli pillows filled with ricotta and spinach.

Click on photo for a larger imagePhoto by Rachelle Cano

Rumari’s Raviolini

I tell my server, Scott, to choose his favorite from the entrée options and am delightedwhen he returns with the Ravioloni. Again, this is a hefty dish with sizable ravioli pouchesstuffed to the brim and ladled in Rumari’s awesome tomato vodka sauce. I’m able to finishexactly one ravioli – it’s that big.

Click on photo for a larger imageRumari’s Tiramisu

For my third course, Scott chooses (wisely) again for me, arriving with the house madeTiramisu. I’m already full, but Tiramisu cannot be denied. It’s fluffy-light and rich all at once, andI manage all of three bites before I regretfully push it away.

Why Stop the Love at Valentine’s Day?The “Amoré” menu is a fun delight that’s worth trying more than once. Again, it’s available

Sunday through Thursday evenings; it’s not available on Valentine’s Day. (You can, however,purchase one dessert during Valentine’s Day dining and receive a second dessert as a giftfrom Vince and the “family” at Rumari’s.)

Ristorante Rumari is located at 1826 S Coast Hwy.Call for reservations, (949) 494-0400 or go to www.RistoranteRumari.com. Diane Armitage is the best-selling author of the book, The Best of Laguna Beach, and

offers a cornucopia of Laguna based reviews, finds and upcoming events at herb log, TheBestofLagunaBeach.com.

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Sunset palettesPhotos by Scott Brashier

Click on photo for a larger imageEach sunset is a fleeting design of colors and patterns

Click on photo for a larger image To never again be repeated

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Rattlesnake Avoidance Training Workshops for dogsoffered through city; spring is coming, be prepared

Spring is coming, and along with it, the presence of rattlesnakes. Now is the perfect timeto protect dogs from being bitten by taking a Rattlesnake Avoidance Training Workshop, offeredthrough the city on Saturday, Feb 23 and Saturday, March 16 at the Dog Park.

Local “Animaltarian” CeCe Card, who been featured on Animal Planet several times withher cat Aragon aka Lord Tubbington from Glee, reports that during the workshop, dogs willlearn the sight, sound and smell of rattlesnakes, with emphasis on smell. “Five rattlesnakesare used in this class, with their venom removed and their mouths double-muzzled,” saysCard.

Participants should wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and bring a high-energyreward, toy or treat. Owner participation is required and children are welcome with adultsupervision. There will be one per class time.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Rattlesnakes during workshop“Sandy Thornton worked really hard at convincing the city we need this event in our

community. We all love dogs and the threat of rattlesnakes in our hills are concerning. Theworkshop is extremely effective not only for the dog but the dog owner as well,” says CeCe.

“Suzanne [Sandy Thornton’s daughter] has worked with Rusty (who runs the workshops)for over 10 years. Rusty has been coming to the Dana Point area to hold this powerful event foryears…with Snake Avoidance Training the dog learns to avoid the snake through smell, sight,and sound. This is how we avoid the dangers of the bite.”

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Boomer attending a workshopWaymond “Rusty” Debreceni made his beginnings in this industry with his love of the

outdoors over 20 years ago. He is an avid hunter. Upon seeing the devastation a rattlesnakebite can bring to a dog, he decided that he needed to learn everything he could about therattlesnake aversion training process. He started training with Patrick Callahan and LindaNunez of Gameland Kennels in Norco, CA. He is constantly thinking about how he can servehis clients better with training in natural realistic settings.

Rusty tailors the training to each dog and its owner. His main concern has been and willcontinue to be the safety and welfare of the dog and owner. He has trained K-9 dogs for theCounty of Los Angeles FEMA USAID/OFDA and Fontana Police Department K-9 Unit.

The workshops will be held on February 23 and March 16 every half hour from 10 a.m.until 2:30 p.m. at the dog park. The cost is $125. Enroll at https://secure.rec1.com/CA/city-of-laguna-beach/catalog/index.

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Laguna Craft Guild Art Show rescheduled for this Sundayat Main Beach

This Sunday, Feb 10, from 9 a.m. - sundown, the Laguna Craft Guild will hold an Art Showat Main Beach featuring local artists. There are always many treasures to be found at the show,you really never know what you’ll find.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Stop by the Main Beach cobblestones on Sunday for local handmade goodsLaguna Craft Guild is a small group of local Laguna Beach artists that sell their

handmade goods on the cobblestones at Main Beach one to two times a month. Many of themare also Sawdust Festival artists.

The show is very special and a fun way to spend a Sunday strolling along the boardwalkwith friends, family, and pets while gazing at the ocean. The Art Show is kind of like looking forthat perfect seashell along the shoreline.

For more information, visit www.lagunacraftguild.org or follow on Instagram at@lagunacraftguild.

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Laguna Chefs share the Love on Valentine’s DayBy DIANE ARMITAGE

Yesterday, I was talking to one of our Laguna chefs about Valentine’s Day. Oddly, reservations for Valentine’s Day tend to occur well in advance, while Mother’s Dayreservations tend to happen at the last minute. Imagine that.

If you’re one of the few who’s still making your plan for next Thursday, Valentine’s Day,here’s a quick roundup from many of our local restaurants. More details are still rolling in fromchefs, so be sure to check my blog at www.TheBestofLagunaBeach.com for the latest details.

Click on photo for a larger imageCourtesy of Montage LB

Valentine’s Day dessert – The LoftSpecially-Created Valentine’s Day Menus

I’m putting these in no particular order, but figure we should start with the newest chef onour block, Chef Greg Daniels, and his welcome talent at Harley. (Be sure to meet his newmixologist, Jeff, too. Awesome cocktails!)

Harley Laguna Beach – Chef Greg Daniels is making a splash with a Valentine’s menuthat starts with New Caledonian Blue Prawns, moseys through Wood-Grilled Scallops andGrass-Fed Filet Mignon, and offers up black truffle and wild mushroom risotto, pan-friedgnocchi, and quite luxurious desserts.

The cost is $90/person, including a $20 required deposit that will be removed from yourfinal bill.

Go to www.harleylagunabeach.com to reserve or call (949) 715-1530.Harley’s regular menu is also available.Wine Gallery Laguna – One of my favorite (and somewhat undiscovered) chefs, Chef

Josh Mason, has returned to Wine Gallery, and he’s crafted a 4-course dinner that brings backthe best of Josh. Options include Lobster Bisque, Prime Rib with Pommes Purée, and Halibutwith a White Wine Tomato Brodo.

The cost is $75/person with a $30 additional option for a flight of three hand-picked winesfrom Owner Chris Olsen. (I’d take the option any minute, just sayin.)

Go to www.winegallerylaguna.com or call (949) 715-8744 to reserve.Pizza and salads from regular menu also available.Nirvana Grille – I had the pleasure of having dinner with Chef Lindsay last Friday evening.

It’s lovely to see her restaurant still filled with happy diners after all these years. She justsigned a new 10-year lease, so be sure to keep Nirvana on your list. This year’s Valentine’smenu offers up options such as House Made Salmon Chowder, Grilled Center Cut Swordfish,Pepper Crusted Filet Mignon, Portobello Mushroom Risotto and more. Finish the evening witha decadent dessert trio.

The cost is $79/person. Add Drew Barrymore Rosé for just $8 a glass or Bottomless JeanPhillipe Champagne for $25 per person.

Call quickly as she’s almost reached her reservations limit: (949) 497-0027 or go towww.nirvanagrille.com.

Splashes at Surf & Sand – Seats are almost sold out for Chef Ron Fougeray’sValentine’s treat. Choose from menu options such as the Oyster Trio, Salsify & FrangelicoSoup, Colorado Bison Duo, Bronzino, Roasted Veal and more. Rumor has it that the residentPastry Chef has gone all out with equally as decadent dessert options.

The cost is $135/ person or $185 with wine pairings. Call (888) 281-3502.Broadway by Amar Santana – Chef Amar has come up with an inventive menu that

features colors and flavors to entice the senses. Enjoy a “red-for-passion” course of beet-curedWild King Salmon, a “green-for-vitality” course of Herb-Crusted Lamb Loin, and a black coursefor “power, decadence and sexiness” featuring Porcini Dusted Filet of Beef with black trufflepurée and more.

The cost is $135/person. Credit card is required at reservation. Call (949) 715-8234.Broadway by Amar Santana’s A la carte menu is also available.

Click on photo for a larger imageCourtesy of Broadway by Amar Santana

Decadent dessert at Broadway by Amar SantanaMozambique – Always a believer in music + great food for the most memorable

Valentine’s days, Chef Braulio has created a menu that includes 11 entrée options featuringChilean Sea Bass, Filet & Lobster, New Zealand Rack of Lamb, Cioppino and more. Livemusic on Valentine’s features special guest Louis B. Middleton in the Durban Room and theNeil Diamond tribute band America’s Diamond on the main stage.

The cost is $79/person. Call (949) 715-7777.Driftwood Kitchen – Chef Rainer Schwarz is pulling out all the stops with items such as

Pan Seared Crab Cake, Double R Ranch Petite Filet with Maine Lobster, European Branzinoand more. The meal includes a champagne toast and dessert for two.

The cost $89/person. Call (949) 715-7700.Note: For those of you who would rather whisk somewhere other than Laguna, check out

Chef Rainer’s great Hendrix Restaurant in Ocean Ranch by Cinepolis. He’s created a verysimilar menu to the Driftwood Valentine menu, with pricing at $69/person.

Call (949) 248-1912.Studio, Montage Laguna Beach – You know you can’t go wrong for romance at the

renowned Studio. Chef Ben Martinek’s amuse bouche starts with a Shigoku Oyster on the halfshell, and the menu rolls from there with Smoked Red Abalone, Roulade of California PetraleSole, Duck Breast and more.

The cost is $175/person, $270 with wine pairings. Call (949) 715-6420.The Loft, Laguna Beach – New Chef Joosung Lee is offering a 4-course menu with items

such as Steelhead Trout Tartare, Cauliflower Flan, Catalina Island Striped Bass, Sweet PotatoGnocchi and more.

The cost $150/person, $210 with wine pairings. Call (949) 715-6420.The Loft’s egular menu is also available.

Valentine Specialty Items Served With Regular MenuThese restaurants are featuring specials along with the nightly regular menu: Sapphire Laguna – Any time Chef Azmin comes up with specialty items, you can be

assured it’s going to be one of a kind. Opt for items such as Lobster & Shrimp Bisque, Oven-Roasted Steelhead Salmon, Raspberry Almond Tart and more. Call (949) 715-9888 forreservations.

Lumberyard – Always a local favorite, Owner Cary Redfearn and Chef Armando Ortegahave drummed up some specials that you haven’t seen in the restaurant yet. Sorry, mum’s theword on this!

Make reservations at www.lblumberyard.com or call (949) 715-3900.230 Forest – Chef Marc is offering up a number of specials along with the regular menu.

His is a popular restaurant for Valentine’s, so reserve soon at www.230forestavenue.com orcall (949) 494-2545.

Skyloft – In addition to the regular menu, opt for off-menu items such as Salmon Quinoaor Grilled Pork Chop. The great musician Francois Dean in in the house beginning 7 p.m.

Watermarc – At his other popular restaurant, just a block from his initial 230 Forestrestaurant, Chef Marc has organized a number of specials true to Watermarc’s cuisine.

For reservations, call (949)-376-6272 or go to www.watermarcrestaurant.com. Valentine’s All Month Long

Ristorante Rumari’s – Owner Vince Crivello and his chefs decided to celebrate a monthof amoré because…well, why not? This February menu is NOT offered on Valentine’s Day butis served Sunday through Thursday throughout the month. A three-course menu, it offersoptions such as Pollo Siciliana, Ravioloni Macchiati Con Vodka, Penne Al Salmone and more.The dinner includes a glass of house wine or Italian Prosecco. (Watch for my review on thisnext week in Stu News Laguna.)

The cost is $45/person. For reservations, call (949) 494-0400 or go towww.ristoranterumari.com.

Click on photo for a larger imageCourtesy of Ristorante Rumari’s

Dessert at Ristorante Rumari’sAnd, You Could Always Start with Dessert First

Montage Lobby Lounge – Leave it to Montage Executive Pastry Chef Lee Smith to roll outevery sweet imaginable for a Dessert Buffet in the Montage Lobby Lounge. It’s a finer version ofWilly Wonka’s world with tables piled with macaroons, brownie lollipops, ivory chocolate potsde crème, a “Montage Cream Bun Collection,” and an entire collection of chocolates, fromeclairs to chocolate chunk cookies, house-made chocolate bonbons, and truffles.

The cost is $45/person and the entire table is required to purchase (no sharing please). Diane Armitage is the best-selling author of the book, The Best of Laguna Beach, and

offers a cornucopia of Laguna based reviews, finds and upcoming events at her b log,TheBestofLagunaBeach.com.

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Ribbon cutting ceremony at LAM celebrates thecompletion of the Lower Gallery remodel

Last Thursday night saw the official opening of the remodeled Lower Gallery at the ArtMuseum with a ribbon-cutting attended by several Laguna movers and shakers.Anders Lasater, project architect, Mayor Bob Whalen, and Michael Laux of Oligino LauxConstruction were clearly pleased with their accomplishment.

The lower level space, which was completed in 1934 as an addition to the 1929 building,will host exhibitions again starting March 3.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Anders Lasater, project architect, Malcolm Warner, executive director of the museum, BobWhalen, mayor (cutting the ribbon), and Michael Laux of Oligino Laux constructionWith funding from the City of Laguna Beach through the Cultural Facilities Improvement

Matching Grant Program, which provided funding to improve the museum’s HVAC systems lastyear, the museum undertook a major renovation of its lower level galleries.

“The remodeling gives us fresh-looking, architecturally satisfying spaces that actuallyenhance the art,” noted Malcolm Warner, executive director of the museum.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Malcolm Warner with Michael Laux on his right and Al Oligino on his leftThe passageway between the Brief Gallery and the Segerstrom Family Gallery was

enlarged; the exhibition spaces were expanded by some 20 percent; and the historic floor,inscribed with the names of the donors to the project of finishing the lower level in 1934, wasrestored.

The next phase of the multiphase project is renovation of the exterior of the building.

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Saint Valentine’s Day: What’s in a name?By DIANNE RUSSELL

Thursday we celebrate a holiday that prompts Americans to spend 30 million dollars inthe name of love. How did this homage to romance begin, I wondered, so, of course, I Googledit, and found that most of its apparent origins have little to do with chocolates, flowers, or love.

The possible roots of the tradition are varied. The name could have originated from threethird-century priests, all named Valentine and all martyred on the same date, February 14.Beheadings and Hallmark cards in the same sentence? Bet no one saw that coming.

The second explanation is darker and much more disturbing (I guess). It was based on aRoman fertility festival, The Feast of Lupercalia, held during the month of February. During thefestivities, men sacrificed a goat and a dog, then made strips of the hides and dipped them inblood before beating the women.

Click on photo for a larger imageChaucer and Shakespeare both mention St. Valentine in their works: here Shakespeare

toasts Valentine’s DayMaybe that’s why we associate the color red with Valentine’s Day? As the finale, the

women’s names were put in an urn to be drawn as companions for the men during thecelebration. A love lottery? Highly unlikely, I imagine.

Some experts claim that our modern-day Valentine’s Day traditions started in fourteenth-century France and England with the belief that birds began to mate on February 14. A muchmore palatable explanation.

Whatever the true origin of this day, celebrations can be traditional or nontraditional, alavish dinner at one of our local restaurants, a packet of Have’a Chips maybe, or a simplepicnic in Heisler Park among the flowers.

I choose to believe that Valentine’s Day didn’t start with beheadings or a pagan festival, butwith the birds. And maybe the bees.

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LAM Film Night to feature In a Lonely Place Feb 21Laguna Art Museum will present “In a Lonely Place” on Thursday, Feb 21 at 6 p.m. as part

of its Film Night series. Curator Janet Blake will introduce the classic film noir starringHumphrey Bogart.

Click on photo for a larger image Courtesy of lagunaartmuseum.org

Don’t be lonely, grab a date and enjoy “In a Lonely Place” at LAM

According to a synopsis by Rod Crawford for IMBD, “Screenwriter Dixon Steele, faced withthe odious task of scripting a trashy bestseller, has hat-check girl Mildred Atkinson tell him thestory in her own words. Later that night, Mildred is murdered and Steele is a prime suspect; hisrecord of belligerence when angry and his macabre sense of humor tell against him.Fortunately, lovely neighbor Laurel Gray gives him an alibi. Laurel proves to be just what Steeleneeded, and their friendship ripens into love. Will suspicion, doubt, and Steele’s inner demonscome between them?”

Laguna Art Museum is located at 307 Cliff Dr. For more information and tickets, call (949)494-8971 or visit www.lagunaartmuseum.org.

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The City presents “Open for Business” workshop on Feb21

If you’ve ever wondered about the realities of starting your own business in LagunaBeach, the City is ready to engage with you in a free workshop on Thursday, Feb 21.

The workshop will include informal conversations with City staff members, the PlanningCommission, Chamber of Commerce members, and current business owners at the Susi Q &Community Center from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Click on photo for a larger imagePhoto by Mary Hurlbut

The Hive is home to many local businesses including Laguna Beach Beer CompanyCommercial real estate agents, commercial building owners and managers, prospective

business owners, and their representatives are invited to attend this free workshop. For more information, contact Anthony Viera at (949) 497-0398 or

aviera@lagunabeachcity.net.

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Gallery Q’s “New Beginnings” exhibit attracts Festival ofArts artists

Gallery Q’s new exhibit, “New Beginnings,” is one to check out, attracting talented localartists including LCAD President Jonathan Burke and Festival of Arts artists. The exhibit will beon display through February 22, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in The Susi QCommunity and Senior Center. Many of the art pieces in the show will be available for sale,with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Laguna Beach Seniors.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Art on exhibit at Gallery Q’s current show: “Single Story” by LCAD President JonathanBurke

Gallery Q’s “New Beginnings” show theme goes well with Laguna Beach Seniorscelebrating its 10th anniversary of The Susi Q Community and Senior Center.

Ten years ago, on February 1, 2009, when Laguna Beach Seniors (LBS) first opened itsdoors to The Susi Q’s Third Street location, the Board of Directors had made a deliberatechoice to use the walls of The Susi Q to celebrate the creativity that is a hallmark of our town.With support from Art Director Carole Zavala, Gallery Q was born.

The goal was to provide talented amateur artists of all ages an opportunity to showcasetheir work and expand the capacity for the public display of nonprofessional art in a town wherethe arts are central to our quality of life and sense of community.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Photography by Rob Gage, on display at Gallery Q’s new exhibit at The Susi Q CenterNow, 10 years old, Gallery Q is under the leadership of Bill Atkins and he has added a

new and unique component to the vital “mix” that sustains the arts in Laguna. Atkins plays akey role in attracting new, local talent from the Festival of Arts and Sawdust Festival. Nourishedby a grant from the Festival of Arts Foundation, Gallery Q continues to support the emerging,semi-professional and professional artists in Laguna Beach.

For more information, visit www.thesusiq.org/gallery-q. Susi Q Community and Senior Center is located at 380 Third St.

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LAM’s exhibit from artist Helena Modjneska’s Fairy TaleBook opens March 3

Laguna Art Museum presents “Titi, Nunu, and Klembolo: Helena Modjeska’s Fairy TaleBook” in a very special exhibit March 3 to May 27.

The great Polish actress Helena Modjeska (1840–1909), best known for herperformances in the plays of Shakespeare, was a star of the American stage in the 1880s and‘90s. In 1888, she and her husband built a country home, Arden, in what is now ModjeskaCanyon in Orange County. Among her many other talents, Modjeska was a gifted storytellerand artist. During breaks in her acting schedule she spent time at Arden writing and illustratinga fairy tale for her grandson, Felix Modjeski, presenting the 147-page bound manuscript to himas a Christmas gift in 1896.

With handwritten parallel texts in English and Polish, and ink-and-watercolor illustrationsthat show Modjeska’s flair for both fantasy and natural observation, the book tells the story of apair of brothers, Titi and Nunu, who live on Mars. They run away from home, accompanied by

their six-legged blue dog, Klembolo, but after some scary adventures return to their family andfriends for Christmas.

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photoBe mesmerized by Helena Modjeska’s Fairy Tale Book, opening March 3 at LAM

The original manuscript of Modjeska’s fairy tale was recently acquired by the University ofCalifornia, Irvine (UCI) Libraries as a generous gift from the Museum of the City of New York. Itwas in need of conservation, and the UCI Special Collections and Archives department calledupon the UCLA Library Conservation Center to undertake an extensive treatment, also digitizingthe manuscript to provide future online access for students, researchers, and the public. Theexhibition will take place immediately after the conservation treatment and before the separatesheets of the manuscript are re-bound, allowing Modjeska’s amazing flight of the imaginationto be displayed as never before.

Laguna Art Museum is grateful to UCI Libraries for graciously agreeing to lend theModjeska manuscript and for various kindnesses during the planning of the exhibition. Majorsupport for the exhibition was generously provided by UCI Illuminations: The Chancellor’s Arts& Culture Initiative, UCI Special Collections and Archives, and the Consulate General of theRepublic of Poland in Los Angeles.

For more information, call (949) 494-8971 or visit www.lagunaartmuseum.org. Laguna ArtMuseum is located at 307 Cliff Dr.

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Meet Pet of the Week BenjiBenji is currently taking the title of Pet of the Week. He is a seven-year-old little terrier mix

with potentially some yorkie in him. He comes from a situation where he was not taken goodcare of, and he lost a lot of teeth in the process. He is full of endless love and is looking for anew home to be taken to. Benji is hoping to find a new friend for life. Nancy Goodwin, shelterdirector, hopes to see Benji adopted as soon as possible.

Click on the photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Benji has lots of love to share with someoneThe 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 totheir approach to adoption, the shelter’s return rate is five percent as compared to the nationalreturn rate of 50 percent.

The LB Animal Shelter is located at 20612 Laguna Canyon Rd. For information onadoption procedures, call (949) 497-3552 or go to www.puplagunabeach.org/our-pets.php.

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PMMC’s Camp Pinniped offers unique experience foryoung campers eight to 13 years of age

Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC) has the perfect experience for buddingveterinarians, scientists, and animal lovers ages 8 - 13: Camp Pinniped. The summer campgives youngsters the opportunity to witness a marine mammal hospital in action. Camperslearn how the animal care team rehabilitates their seal and sea lion patients through a seriesof mock activities including weighing fish, preparing fish smoothies, cleaning pens, andlearning the art of marine mammal rescue.

Click on photo for a larger imageCourtesy of PMMC

Campers learn procedures used in treating marine mammalsIn order to provide a well-rounded study of the ocean environment, each day has a

different theme that is creatively reinforced through hands-on activities, science labs, andcrafts. Campers leave empowered with ways they can help protect and preserve our oceans.Every summer has new content so that returning campers keep on learning.

Camp hours are Monday through Thursday at PMMC from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Fridayat an offsite location TBD.

Click on photo for a larger imageCourtesy of PMMC

Attendees weigh and prepare food for the marine mammalsMonday - Thursday drop-off will be at 9 a.m. and pick-up at 3:30 p.m. Participants should

enter through the visitors’ gate and wait in the outdoor viewing area.Friday drop-off is at 8:30 a.m. and pick-up at 11 a.m. at an offsite location TBD.PMMC will be offering an optional extended day care program before and after the regular

summer camp hours (except on Fridays).Extended day car program hours are (Monday - Thursday):Drop-off: 8:15 a.m. for an additional fee of $7 a day per childPick-up: 4:15 p.m. for an additional fee of $7 a day per child

The cost of one week of enrollment in Camp Pinniped (not including extended day carebefore and after camp sessions) is $350 per camper.

Click on photo for a larger imageCourtesy of PMMC

Mock rescueJune camp dates are: June 10 - June 14, June 17 - June 21, and June 24 - June 28.July camp dates are: July 1 - July 5, July 8 - July 12, July 15 - July 19, July 22 - July 26, and

July 29 - August 2.August camp dates are August 5 - August 9 and August 12 - August 16.PMMC is located at 20612 Laguna Canyon Rd.For more information and to register, go to www.pacificmmc.org or call (949) 494-3050.

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Laguna Beach Arts Alliance is accepting applications for[seven-degrees] of inspiration grant

The Laguna Beach Arts Alliance (LBAA) is now accepting applications for the $5,000[seven-degrees] of inspiration grant. Artistic disciplines can include dance, literature, music,theatre, media arts, visual arts or any combination of these. The submission deadline is March1.

The goal of the [seven-degrees] of inspiration grant is to provide support for an emergingor established artist to develop and present an innovative arts project or program thatadvances recognition of Laguna Beach as a vibrant arts community. It also enables the artist toexpand and diversify his/her audience and provides an opportunity for advanced learning andprogression. The grant is open to all artists residing in Southern California and is funded by[seven-degrees], an integral local event venue.

Click on photo for a larger imageSubmitted photo

Artist Russell Pierce receives the 2016 [seven-degrees] of inspiration award“[seven-degrees] continues to demonstrate a commitment to artistic forward thinking and

invention through the funding of this grant. It has inspired many innovative projects that mighthave never come to fruition without their generous support,” said LBAA Chair RosemarySwimm. “LBAA is once again proud to partner with them.”

The winner will be announced on Sunday, April 7, during LBAA’s annual Art Star Awards,an award ceremony honoring the best and brightest of Laguna’s diverse artistic community.The winner of the $5,000 grant will have 11 months to complete his/her project, and the body ofwork will premiere at the 2020 Art Star Awards.

To apply, visit www.lagunabeacharts.org or email info@lagunabeacharts.org.

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LOCA presents Couples who Create Art Club on Feb 21On Thursday, Feb 21 from 4 - 5:30 p.m., LOCA presents a Couples who Create Art Club at

the LCAD Gallery. Anne and Hyatt Moore will share insights on what it’s like to be married andworking artists.

Click on photo for a larger imagePhoto courtesy of annesprints.com

Local artist Anne Moore Anne is a successful printmaker and Hyatt is a well-respected oil painter. The Moores will

discuss how they balance schedules, their influences, and how each maintains anindependent view through their work.

Click on photo for a larger imagePhoto courtesy of Facebook

Local artist Hyatt Moore Wine and snacks will be provided. The event is free to members and $20 for guests. To register, visit www.locaarts.org or call (949) 363-4700.LCAD Gallery is located at 374 Ocean Ave.

Police Beat PrimerCompiled by Suzie Harrison

Police Beat derives from information in the daily police and arrest logs published on the City ofLaguna Beach’s website and required under CA Government Code Section 6254 (f). Additionalinformation 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.

Police Beat 021219

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Incident ReportsSaturday, Feb 9

S Coast Hwy | 200 Block | Disorderly Conduct – Alcohol 8:51 p.m. A 41-year-old Laguna Beach man w as arrested for disorderly conduct related to alcohol. Bailw as set at $500.Glenneyre St & Legion St | Disorderly Conduct – Alcohol 3:03 p.m. A 53-year-old San Rafael man w as arrested for disorderly conduct related to alcohol. Bail w asset at $500.Laguna Canyon Road | 800 Block | Suspended License2:50 p.m. Eduard L Albarillo, 47, Laguna Hills, w as arrested for driving w ith a suspended license. No bailw as set.Laguna Ave | 200 Block | Parole Violation, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Warrant 5:23 a.m. Ronald David McGrane, 50, Santa Ana, w as arrested for violating parole (no bail w as set),possession of a controlled substance (bail w as set at $500), and on an undisclosed w arrant (bail w as setat $5,000).S Coast Hwy & Diamond St | DUI, Driving with a Blood Alcohol Content 0.08% or Higher3:21 a.m. A 33-year-old Huntington Beach man w as arrested on suspicion of DUI (bail w as set at $2,500)and driving w ith a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher (bail w as set at $2,500).Broadway St & Beach St | DUI with 1 Prior 2:05 a.m. Robert Taylor Ballou, 29, Trabuco Canyon, w as arrested on suspicion of DUI w ith one prior (bailw as set at $10,000) and w ith a blood alcohol content of 0.01% or higher (bail w as set at $10,000). S Coast Hwy | 600 Block | DUI1:54 a.m. A 36-year-old Aliso Viejo w oman w as arrested on suspicion of DUI. Bail w as set at $2,500.NB State Hwy 73 & Laguna Canyon Road | Vandalism12:18 a.m. There w ere reports that the LBPD message board/sign had been tagged w ith graff iti, cominginbound on Laguna Canyon Road. The board w as clear Friday afternoon, so the tag w as estimated to haveoccurred either late Friday night or early Saturday morning.

Friday, Feb 8Broadway St | 500 Block | Property4:55 p.m. LBPD received a report regarding a found used hypodermic needle. According to police reports,“A needle w as found in the bushes near the eucalyptus tree near the underground garage. An employeereported it. The employee states he sees people doing drugs in the w alkw ay.”Cypress Drive & Jasmine St | Disorderly Conduct – Alcohol 3:37 p.m. A 67-year-old Lake Forest w oman w as arrested for disorderly conduct related alcohol. Bail w asset at $500.Glenneyre St | 400 Block | Disorderly Conduct, Warrants5:28 a.m. Alan Michael Harrison, 34, Laguna Hills, w as arrested on a w arrant for controlled substanceparaphernalia (bail w as set at $2,500), on a w arrant for possession of methamphetamine (bail w as set at$10,000), and disorderly conduct (unknow n bail w as set).S Coast Hwy & 9th Ave | DUI, False Identification1:40 a.m. Steven Ray Christian, 59, Dana Point, w as arrested on suspicion of DUI (bail w as set at $2,500),driving w ith a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher (bail w as set at $2,500), and providing falseidentif ication to a peace off icer (bail w as set at $500).

Thursday, Feb 7Laguna Canyon Road | 20600 Block | DUI10:30 p.m. A 36-year-old Aliso Viejo w oman w as arrested on suspicion of DUI. Bail w as set at $2,500.

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