Front Page (2024)

Start the new year off right. Providence Mission Hospital has plenty of educational programs to support your health and well-being. Check out the free webinars they have planned for the month of February. To view all classes or to register for one of these Zoom webinars, visit www.Providence.org/MissionClasses. For questions, call 877.227.3457.

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Courtesy of Providence Mission Hospital

MEDICARE

Register for one of their Medicare open enrollment events by clicking here, or call 844.992.1260.

District’s Board of Education Meetings

The Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) Board of Education meetings for 2024 will be available in the New Year.

The following are the dates:

Board of Education

Jan Vickers, Board President (2024)

jvickers@lbusd.org

Kelly Osborne, Board Clerk (2024)

kosborne@lbusd.org

James Kelly, Board Member (2026)

jkelly@lbusd.org

Joan Malczewski, Board Member (2026)

jmalczewski@lbusd.org

Dee Perry, Board Member (2026)

dperry@lbusd.org

Zoey Cutter, Student Board Member (2022-2023)

Nic Plaia, Student Board Member (2022-2023)

LAGUNA BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY

Laguna Beach Public Library offers a great selection of books, movies and music as well as a wide range of electronic and digitized resources 24/7 at their eLibrary. In addition, check out their monthly happenings. Most resources require a library card, so visit https://ocpl.org/cards to get one. For more information, go to www.ocpl.org. 363 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach. Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Sunday. 949.497.1733.

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Photo by Mary Hurlbut

DECEMBER HAPPENINGS
During December, the Library is celebrating Sparkly Month with special wintery programs designed for children and their grownups.

Sparkly Dance Party

Thursday, Dec. 21 at 4 p.m.

ONGOING EVENTS

Baby Lapsit Storytime

Tuesday, Dec. 19 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Join Ms. Kasey for Baby Lapsit storytime. Enjoy fun stories, songs and movement. This storytime is designed for babies ages 0-3 years with their caregiver. Each week, Ms. Kasey will share early learning tips for you to develop your little ones’ love of learning, along with a card with rhymes to take home. Stay and Play will follow storytime.

ESL Conversation Groups (18 years and up)

Mondays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Join the Laguna Beach Library to practice English speaking and listening skills in a relaxed environment. No registration is required. This program is for adults. For more information, call Lee Enos at call the library at 949.497.1733, or email ocpl.lagunabeach@occr.ocgov.com.

Preschool Storytime

Thursday, Dec. 21 at 10:30 a.m. Preschoolers aged 3-5 years old and their caregiver will prepare for kindergarten with stories, songs, puppets and a craft. Each week, Ms. Jackie will share activities that foster basic math, reading and social skills to prepare your child for school.

Music Classes

Tuesday, Dec. 19 from 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. A music class for children up to 5 years old, with caregiver involvement. Attendees will sing, dance and play child-friendly percussion instruments. Space is limited, first come, first served. Live! Music Matters is presented by Laguna Live!

LEGO Club

Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. They provide the LEGOS, base plates, challenges and space, but you bring your imagination. Separate areas for younger and older children. Guardian supervision is required.

Read to a Dog

Third Thursday of the Month from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Upcoming date: December 21. Come to the Laguna Beach Library to visit and read aloud to specially trained dogs in a relaxing environment. Reading to a furry friend can help calm nerves and make better readers. This program is for emerging readers and those who want to improve reading out loud.

Teens and Young Adults

Saturday, Dec. 23 at 1:30 p.m., teens and young adults (15-25) are welcome to attend a music program designed and lead by professionals from Laguna Playhouse. Come learn fundamentals in a variety of instruments. Teachers will also share elements of music appreciation and writing lyrics.

Teen Volunteers

Laguna Beach Library offers a variety of volunteering opportunities to teens. Teens can serve on the Teen Advisory Board, help elementary school kids with homework, assist library staff with programs such as storytime, Math Club and crafts. Of course, teens could also shelve books. Volunteers need to submit an application form signed by a parent/legal guardian and interview with Voluteer coordinator Lee Enos. Remember: Volunteering is just like a job.

California State Parks Pass available

The California Library Parks Pass program is one of three such initiatives to make state parks more accessible to Californians. Ask about them at the library! For more information, go here.

Don’t miss out on their monthly E-Newsletter “Living It Up” on their home page. For more information on all classes, activities and assistance, call The Susi Q Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at 949.464.6645, or visit www.thesusiq.org. The Susi Q Senior Center is located at 380 Third St., Laguna Beach. info@thesusiq.org

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Courtesy of The Susi Q

HAPPENINGS!

Call for Artists: Gallery Q 2024

Debuts with A Fresh New Look

Out with the old and in with the new! Try a new art form, style or subject and share it with the public in our first exhibition of 2024. All medium accepted. Download an application here. For more information, call 949.715.8106.

Accepting Art: Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 5-6 p.m.

Exhibit Dates: January 17 through March 6, 2024 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Artist Reception: Friday, Jan. 19, 2024 from 5-6:30 p.m.

Susi Q Matinees

Mondays & Fridays weekly, from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Free. Drop-In. (No registration is needed.) Each week will feature a different film. You can come weekly or just for the movies that interest you. Movie ratings range from G to R and will be posted prior to each showing. A schedule of movies and their rating is available online and at the Susi Q front desk. And yes, popcorn and lemonade provided! Questions? Call Christine Brewer at 949.715.8105.

CLASSES

Bridge

Susi Q Holiday Bridge Special

Thursday, Dec. 22 from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Hosted by Jane Dober, Gold Life Master & ABCL Accredited Instructor, celebrate the holiday season with Susi Q's bridge community playing challenge hands that are followed up with a mini lesson. All players are welcome and no partner is needed. Regular classes resume January 8, 2024. Register here for bridge.

Computers/Technology

Don’t forget, volunteers are here every Thursday from 12-2 p.m. for walk-in PC & MAC tech assistance – bring your laptop, iPad, or smartphone.

Fitness/Health

Leslie’s Co-Ed Stretch & Strengthen (In-Person)

Tuesdays and Thursdays monthly from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Fitness Over Sixty! Pursue a healthy lifestyle by integrating a highly functional workout using THE HARRIS METHOD with fitness-favorite Leslie Davis. Sculpt, tone and build muscle while improving your stamina. Cost: $10/class. Attention newcomers, try out a class for FREE. Call Christine Brewer at 949.715.8105 for details.

Mindfulness Meditation has a new start 4 p.m. time (Online)

2nd and 4th Tuesday Monthly from 4-5 p.m. Free. Mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present and teaches you to slow down racing thoughts, let go of negativity, and calm both your mind and body. Learn the principles and practices of Mindfulness Meditation with educator Megan McCarver, M.A., C-IAYT, IYA. Register for mindfulness meditation here.

Wayne’s Standing Yoga (In-Person)

Mondays and Wednesdays monthly from 9-10:15 a.m. Cost: $5/class. Exercise your brain and body connection in one of the Susi Q’s most popular classes. Improve your coordination and balance and join in with a fun crowd of regulars who will cheer you on. Social hour follows. Instructor: Wayne Lawrence.

Yoga Nidra: with Dr. Deerheart (Online)

First Thursday monthly from 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) guides one into a deep state of consciousness between awake and asleep, which has been shown to reduce anxiety and pain, and restore well-being even in the state of disease, dying and grief.

Facilitated by Dr. Andrea Deerheart.

Music

“Kanikapila” Weekly Sing Along(with ukulele) on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Just Show Up!

Register here for Online Ukulele.

SUPPORT & ASSISTANCE SERVICES

Heart to Heart Support Group

Mondays weekly from 10-11 a.m. Free. Facilitated by Kathleen “Kay” Wenger, LMFT, LPCC.Here’s a support group where connections from the heart matter. Join for emotional support, practical information and advice on how to cope with your unique situation. Call 949.715.8104 to join the group.

Feeling the Blues?

Individual counseling by appointment.

Is the constant change with the COVID -19 pandemic confusing, frustrating and causing you anxiety? Licensed therapists can help anyone who is 55+ find solutions, strategies and strengths for coping. Therapists meet one-on-one by scheduled appointment.

“You Are Not Alone” Women Supporting Women (Hybrid)

Wednesdays weekly from 10:30-12 p.m. Free. Meaningful social connections are an integral part of your health and well-being. Facilitator Signe Schiavo, LMFT leads the discussion with a focus on developing friendships, strengthening connections and combatting loneliness. Call 949.715.8104.

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregivers Support Group

First and third Wednesdays from 1:30-3 p.m. Free.

Guided by Ruth Prias, trained ALZOC Volunteer.
Alzheimer’s and dementia are life changing for both those who are diagnosed and those close to them. The Susi Q is continuing to host virtual group sessions that let participants share experiences, feelings and coping strategies. Call 949.715.8104 to join the group.

Death Cafe

Last Monday monthly from 3:30-5 p.m. Free.

Facilitated by Dr. Andrea Deerheart.
Relaxed monthly discussions create an open and safe space to talk about matters of life and death. Note: If you signed up for a previous Death Cafe, you are on the roster and will be automatically notified of the next session.

Chronic Illness Support Group

Tuesdays weekly from 10-11:30 a.m. Free.

Facilitated by Sandra Weiss, Ph.D.
When confronting a major illness, loss or major life change, knowing that you are not alone is important. Individuals, caregivers and families 55+ are invited to share and get help in taking the best care of yourself.

Support Group for Chronic Illness (Hybrid)

Tuesdays monthly from 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Did you know that the Susi Q hosts a support group (both in-person and online) open to individuals, caregivers and families 55+ touched by any serious health-related illness? Join Sandra Weiss, Ph.D., to get help in taking the best care of yourself. Call 949.715.8104 to join the group or for more information.

Legal Clinic Consultations

Second Monday of the month by appointment from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Free.

Courtesy of Jane Fulton. Seniors 55+ can find free legal assistance, advice and referrals for issues that include social security, contracts, housing, wills and more. Phone appointments only. Call 949.715.8104 to make an appointment.

Have Questions about Medicare? (HICAP Counseling)

Third Monday monthly from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free.The Susi Q, in partnership with the Council on Aging, is continuing free Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy (HICAP) by phone during the health crisis. The HICAP counselor will provide unbiased information to help you make the best choices for your health care needs.Call 949.715.8104 to make an appointment.

Care Management

By appointment during business hours, Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Walk-ins okay.
Time can bring challenges that impact our ability to live safely and independently. When this happens, you need a place to turn for guidance and support. That’s why care management is a core service at The Susi Q. Services are free. Donations are welcome. Call 949.715.8104 to make an appointment.

Lifelong Laguna

By appointment during business hours.

Lifelong Laguna reaches beyond the walls of the Susi Q to help you live safely at home. This mission is more vital than ever during the pandemic. Staff and volunteers are available to help with errands.

• • •

Visit www.thesusiq.org and click on Classes & Registration to register for any of the wide array of programs, classes or support service offerings. Call 949.715.8105 for further assistance.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Come help Crystal Cove Conservancy and work alongside California State Parks on habitat restoration projects during Stewardship Saturday on Saturday, Dec. 23 at 9 a.m. Participants will aid in activities such as weeding, seeding and planting. This event is recommended for ages 8 and up. All participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited so please contact Jennifer Mendez at jennifer@crystalcove.org for questions and to register.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Crystal Cove State Park is a great spot to look for resident dolphins, migrating whales, and birds just passing by the coastline. Join a park naturalist for a Whales, Dolphins & Wildlife “Twalk” and learn some fun facts about the coastal creatures as we walk the bluff trail and scan the ocean at each overlook on Saturday, Dec. 23 at 9 a.m. Bring binoculars for better viewing. Meet at Pelican Point lot #4 (PCH coastward at Newport Coast left at kiosk to the last lot).

$15 day-use fee.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

At Crystal Cove, we walk upon one of the rarest environments in North America and indeed the Earth. This is the coastal sage-scrub plant community, a precious, but dwindling environment that supports countless coastal plants, animals and birds, as well as migrating creatures. Come join a park docent and enjoy a one-hour nature walk along both the coastal bluff and the beach to learn about and observe some of the park’s native plants and birds on Friday, Dec. 29 at 10 a.m. Meet at Pelican Point parking lot #2, at the top of the boardwalk near the parking lot (PCH coastward at Newport Coast, right at kiosk to first lot). $15 day use fee.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Love birds, nature and strolls in the park? Crystal Cove State Park is a great spot to identify new species as well as seeing and hearing their resident avian friends like California Gnatcatchers, Greater Roadrunners and Osprey. Come join a park naturalist for an easy Winter Bird Walk along Moro Canyon on Saturday, Dec. 30 at 8 a.m. Meet at the Berns Amphitheatre in the Lower Moro parking lot (PCH inland at stoplight School-State Park, follow signs towards the campground). $15 day use fee.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Crystal Cove North Beach Cottages reservations are now open online.

Crystal Cove Conservancy will take the next step in the North Beach Cottage Restoration Project by soft opening the first group of eight newly restored cottages for online rental through the official California State Parks reservation system, ReserveCalifornia.com, Once cottages are available online, patrons will then be allowed to reserve the eight newly restored cottages for stays happening the following four weeks. Reserve online or call 800.444.7275 between the hours of 8 a.m-6 p.m. PST. Cottage reservations cannot be made through The Conservancy offices or website, or third-party rental services.

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Give the Gift of Crystal Cove by shopping for loved ones or yourself at the Park Store. From beautiful art pieces to handmade sea glass jewelry, plus ornaments, clothing staples, kids toys and more, there is something everyone will enjoy!

Shopping at the Park Store helps Crystal Cove Conservancy, with proceeds being reinvested into the park and The Conservancy’s education and conservation initiatives.

The store is currently open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Hours may change depending on conditions.

The City of Laguna Beach Recreation Dept. is offering a variety of programs for all ages, and registration is now open for spring and summer camps and classes. Sign up early to guarantee your space; classes may be canceled if minimum enrollment is not reached. Scholarships are available for qualifying Laguna Beach families and are funded by the city’s Community Assistance Grant program. Click here to learn more.

Registration is open for fall classes and activities. Sign up early to guarantee your space; classes may be cancelled if minimum enrollment is not reached.

Click here to register for classes.

NEW WINTER CLASSES

~Aqua Fit and Aqua Blast

~KDA Tumbling

~Music & Wiggles

~Motus Movement

~NSA Youth Volleyball

~Paint, Paste & Pour

~ProTouch Futsal

~Tumble-N-Kids

YOUTH & CHILDREN

CLASSES & PROGRAMS:

~Laguna Beach Water Polo Club

~Magic Steps Holiday Music in the Park

~Youth Swim Team

~Youth Tennis

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Courtesy of City of Laguna Beach

ADULT

~Adult Beginning/Intermediate Drawing & Watercolor

~Aqua Aerobics

~Body & Mind Barre Workout

~Hortense Miller Garden Tours

~Line Dancing

~Mary’s Fitness Beyond 50!

~Mary’s Spinal Flexibility, Strengthening and Conditioning

~Tennis

~Namaste Yoga

Courtesy of City of Laguna Beach

DROP-IN ACTIVITIES

~Adult Beginning/Intermediate Drawing & Watercolor

~Aqua Aerobics

~Belly Dancing

~Better Life Boxing

~Futsal

~Lyrical Modern Dance

~Mary’s Fitness Beyond 50!

~Namaste Yoga

~Table Tennis

~Zumba

AROUND TOWN

Events

–Dec. 26-29: Pro Touch Soccer Holiday Camp

–Jan. 2-5, 2024: U SK8 Holiday Camp

–Jan. 2-5, 2024: Youth Pickleball Camp

–Jan. 2-5, 2024: Pro Touch Soccer New Year’s Camp

Facility Spotlight: Laguna Beach Community & Recreation Center

The Laguna Beach Community & Recreation Center is open for drop-in basketball, pickleball and volleyball in the indoor gym.

Pre-registration highly recommended.

Drop-in basketball

Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Drop-in volleyball

Thursdays, from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Drop-in pickleball

Mondays, from 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Must pre-register online.

Click here to see the schedule.

Reserve Classrooms, meeting rooms

Classrooms, meeting rooms and the gymnasium at the Laguna Beach Community & Recreation Center are available for meetings, presentations, sports practices and trainings. Click here to view and download a fillable application to reserve space.

Trolley

The non-summer trolley schedule for the Laguna Beach Local On-Demand transit service will run through June 21, 2024. Click here for the routes and more information.

Hortense Miller Garden Tours

The Hortense Miller Garden, established in 1959, covers two and a half acres of the upper slopes of Boat Canyon in Laguna Beach. The garden is home to a large range of plants that can be grown in Southern California coastal zones, providing a source of inspiration for visitors in planning their own gardens. Tours cover the grounds and the interior of the mid-century modern home built specifically to capture the canyon to ocean views of this unique property. Sign up here for a tour.

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Laguna Beach Recreation Division, 380 3rd St., Laguna Beach. www.lagunabeachcity.net; email recreation@lagunabeachcity.net