News

Rotary Club 19th Annual Classic Car Show

19th Annual Classic Car Show Mark your calendars for Sunday, October 1, for Laguna Rotary’s Annual Classic Car Show. Once again, the show, which usually draws over 125 American and foreign classic cars, will be held in the City lot across from the Festival Grounds from 9:30am to 3pm. In addition to the classic cars, food, beverages and live music will be featured. All proceeds from this yearly family event go to support local charities and non profits in the form of community grants. We hope to see

US Open of Lawn Bowling

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Lawn Bowlers from Across the Globe Gear Up for the Momentous Return of the U.S. Open in Orange County, California Orange County, CA – August 16, 2023 – A resounding celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie is set to sweep across Orange County as over 200 accomplished lawn bowlers from around the world converge to participate in the much-awaited U.S. Open, the largest lawn bowling tournament in North America. Organized by Bowls USA and hosted by the Southwest Lawn Bowls Division,

Opinion: Being an Ally

By Chris Tebbutt It’s been a busy and colorful first week of Laguna Beach LGTBQ+ Heritage & Culture Month. We have already delivered over 50 rainbow flags to residents and businesses of Laguna Beach. It’s been heartening to see that most requests have been from Allies. What is an Ally exactly? An Ally is someone who supports and stands up for one or more marginalized groups. Being an Ally is more important than many people realize. It sends a powerful message that everyone deserves to be treated equally

SDCCU Partners with the Identity Theft Resource Center to Present a Webinar on Identity Theft Trends

SAN DIEGO, Calif., (July 10, 2023)  San Diego County Credit Union® (SDCCU®), one of Southern California’s largest locally-owned financial institutions, and the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) will present the Trends in Identity Theft Report webinar on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. This free educational webinar will be presented by Eva Velasquez, CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC). The webinar is open to the public, but reservations are required. For webinar details or to

Laguna Nursery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   Laguna Beach, CA:On Thursday, July 20 at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate Laguna Nursery.“We are excited to add to the growing mix of North Laguna stores.  As this part of the city wakes up from the pandemic we are encouraged by the kindness and warmth from our neighbors and the visitors staying in the local boutique hotels   We look forward to adding to the natural organic ecology and artful expression of life in Laguna

Beach Cities Commercial Bank Ribbon Cutting

On Tuesday, July 18 at 4:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome Beach Cities Commercial Bank!   “Beach Cities Commercial Bank is one of only a handful of new or “De Novo” Banks to start in California in the last several years,” said President, Jeff Redeker.  “We have created with at we believe is the future of commercial and community banking. Beach Cities Commercial Bank understands and focuses on Small Business Administration (SBA) loans,

Julie Laughton Appointed as United Nations Association Ambassador of Affordable Housing in Orange C

Laguna Beach, CA - The United Nations Association, Orange County Chapter is pleased to announce the appointment of Julie Laughton, CEO and owner of the nation's largest female-owned design build company - Julie Laughton Design Build, as the Ambassador of Affordable Housing. In this important role, Julie will spearhead efforts to address Orange County's affordable housing crisis by collaborating with local leaders across various sectors, including government, business, academia, and nonprofit

Rodeo Realty Ribbon Cutting

On Thursday, July 6 at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome Araksya " Roxy" Keshishyan to the community as a new Chamber member and a realtor. “I have been living in South Laguna Beach for several months now and I absolutely love the community.” said Araksya " Roxy" Keshishyan.  “You may have seen me hiking the Valido Trail with my dog Appa every morning.  I have been working in real estate for several years with Rodeo Realty in Beverly

SDCCU Stuff the Bus is Collecting Monetary Donations for Back-to-School Supplies for Students in Ne

SAN DIEGO, Calif., (June 26, 2023) — Kids face many hardships — having access to school supplies should not be one of them. That’s why SDCCU Stuff the Bus, in partnership with San Diego County Credit Union® (SDCCU®)and the Angels Baseball Foundation, is collecting monetary donations to purchase back-to-school supplies for students in need. Donations will help set up students in Orange and Riverside counties for success in the coming school year. All proceeds collected in Orange and Riverside counties will

KAHUNA CARES FOUNDATION

Dear Business Owners and Community,  On August 26th, 2023, we will be hosting the 6th Annual “KAHUNA CONCERT FOR A CAUSE” at The Ocean Terrace San Clemente. This year will be featuring Laguna Beach’s own Common Sense, Orange County’s #1 Yacht Rock band, Yachty by Nature, and The Welfares.Kahuna Concert for a Cause raises money for those with special needs. In doing so we also pay tribute to the late Terry “Tubesteak” Tracy who sparked the inspiration for the role of the Big Kahuna in the Gidget movie

Sensational Funding Raised at “Groove for Good” Supporting Music Education in Orange County’s Unders

Laguna Beach, CA: Laguna Beach’s iconic live music and restaurant venue, The Drake, hosted a sold-out event where philanthropists, industry innovators and exceptional musical talent collided for a cause. Raising $125,000 for the nonprofit collaboration between The Drake Gives and Save the Music Foundation, the proceeds will benefit the music programming within Anaheim’s Public School District. During the event, Anaheim Elementary School District Superintendent Dr. Christopher Downing shared the need that

Livel Real Estate Ribbon Cutting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   Laguna Beach, CA:   On Thursday, June 29 at 5:30pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon cutting in celebration of Livel Real Estate.   “"Livel Real Estate is more than a brokerage, it’s a real estate consultancy fixated on obtaining pinnacle results. Our goal is to have a lasting impact by making it possible for everyone to live the lifestyle they desire and build the kind of wealth that leaves a legacy.” said Founder & Owner Meital Taub.   “Livel Real

Art of Fitness 20th Year Anniversary Party

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   Laguna Beach, CA:   On Tuesday, June 20 at 5:00pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon cutting in celebration of Art of Fitness’s 20th anniversary!   Join the Art of Fitness 20th year anniversary party! The Art of Fitness opened its doors in July of 2003 and continues to be the only full-service gym in Laguna Beach, CA. Art of Fitness offers strength and cardio equipment, personal training, group fitness classes, and has a retail space. In 2012 they expanded

La Casa Azul Designs Ribbon Cutting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   Laguna Beach, CA:   On Thursday, June 15th at 5:30pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in a welcoming and grand opening ceremony with a ribbon cutting in celebration of La Casa Azul Design.   “We are so excited to be in Laguna.  Our interior design firm creates an unmatched experience for our clientele with dreamy results,” said Founder & Principal Designer Juaneice Munoz.   “I love Juaneice’s honesty, transparency, and the respect she has for her clients,” said Erin

''Triptych” A fine art exhibition

What "Triptych” A fine art exhibition   Who: Artists Dan McCaw, Derek Penix and Vanessa Rothe  Where: Vanessa Rothe Fine Art Gallery           418 Ocean Ave Laguna Beach CA 92651And ONLINE www.vanessarothefineart.com   Opening July 1st 10am- Ends Sept 10th 2023   This summer the Vanessa Rothe Fine Art gallery is proud to present “TRIPTYCH” an fine art exhibition celebrating the exciting juxtaposition of 3 California artists who combine realism, impressionism and a hint of abstraction, to create theirs

Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center partners with Neighborhood Congregational Church to offer Juneteen

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif., May 24, 2023 –– The Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center and Neighborhood Congregational Church have partnered to create Juneteenth Jubilee, a celebration of history and cultures that will include an array of events and activities at both venues.  On Monday, June 19, the Juneteenth national holiday, at 1 p.m., the Cultural Arts Center will show "Ted Hawkins: Amazing Grace," a film about the resilience of the human spirit embodied by the late musician Ted Hawkins, followed by a talk with

LagunaTunes Ribbon Cutting

On Sunday, June 11 at 4:00pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Laguna Tunes. The ribbon cutting will take place on stage just prior to The Laguna Tunes 20th Anniversary Free Concert at the LBHS Artist Theatre.   New Chamber of Commerce member, LagunaTunes Community Chorus, is busily preparing for a 20th Anniversary celebration performance called—Lagunatunes, Greatest Hits!  Several members of LagunaTunes (pictured here) sang

Recherche Fine Rugs & Home Decor Ribbon Cutting

On Thursday, June 22 at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome Recherche Fine Rugs & Home Decor.   “We just opened and so far our experience has been amazing and we love the community already!” said Founder and CEO Tayfur Solak.  “We look forward to engaging with the community and participating in First Thursday.”   “What a great location and the way they have utilized the space is beautiful,” said Erin Slattery CEO of the Laguna Beach

Coast Hardware Ribbon Cutting

On Tuesday, June 6th at 4:00pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration of the 45th anniversary of Coast Hardware.“Being a part of Laguna Beach for 45 years is a real accomplishment. I am honored to join the Coast Hardware family.” said the new General Manager Trevor Ullom. “Coast Hardware is more than just a hardware store. We are known for great customer service and great selection.  Whether you need batteries and tape, a fresh coat of paint, or sunscreen and a

Annual Golf Tournament Video 2023

Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament from Eagle Eye Services on Vimeo. Find Photos Here

Yummy Dogs Ribbon Cutting

On Thursday, May 11th  at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in welcomingYummy Dogs with a ribbon cutting in celebration of their recent opening.  As new Chamber Members, Yummy Dogs is excited to be part of an organization that supports the community, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.  “We are so excited to have Yummy Dogs in Laguna Beach”, said Erin Slattery CEO of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce.  “The fun arcade games and gourmet hotdogs are going to be a hit with local families!”

Mercado Laguna Ribbon Cutting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Laguna Beach, CA:  On Thursday, May 4th at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce at a ribbon cutting in celebration of Mercado’s one year anniversary.   Laguna Beach native, Summer Tarango, has opened Mercado, a grab and go gourmet market featuring ready to eat meals, gourmet groceries, and farmers market finds. There are also fun gifts curated by Molly Rossettie of Hi Sweetheart.  “Mercado is a true Laguna gem,” said Erin Slattery CEO of the Laguna Beach Chamber of

SDCCU Returns as Title Sponsor of the SDCCU OC Marathon and Half Marathon

SAN DIEGO, Calif., (April 24, 2023) — San Diego County Credit Union® (SDCCU®), one of California’s largest credit unions, is proud to be the title sponsor of the 2023 SDCCU OC Marathon and Half Marathon, considered one of the best in California with its diverse terrain and majestic ocean views. More than 20,000 runners and an additional 30,000 spectators are expected to attend this year’s full weekend of events happening May 6 and 7 at the OC Fair and Event Center. Events will include the full and half

2023 State of the City Video

Thank you to all of our guests at State of the City 2023! If you missed our live stream, you can watch the event below:  

2023 State of the City Digital Program

Soul Focus Optical Ribbon Cutting

On Thursday, April 20th at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce at a ribbon cutting in celebration of Soul Focus Optical’s three year anniversary.   After three years of optical styling in Laguna Beach, Shery is thrilled to become a proud member of an organization dedicated to empowering small business owners and the community. For those in attendance, Soul Focus Optical will be offering 20% off their entire purchase, and a drawing to win a $150 gift card. Soul Focus Optical is located

The Drake Gives Announces an Evening to “Groove for Good” at The Drake Restaurant in Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach, CA: The Drake, Laguna Beach’s landmark restaurant and live music venue founded by Alec Glasser, will host an experiential fundraising evening unlike any other in Orange County on Tuesday, June 6th 2023. Designed to tantalize the palate and enliven the senses with sensational tunes, the evening will feature a three course meal curated by The Drake, complete with wine pairings, plus entertainment provided by Cueva Entertainment. The bordeaux and gold themed evening, produced by Elite OC

Orange County author Randy Kraft to launch Off Season, her new novel set in Laguna Beach, with April

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif., March 22, 2023 –– Former journalist Randy Kraft will launch her third novel, Off Season, at a reading and book talk on Sunday, April 2, at 4 p.m. at the Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center, 235 Forest Avenue. Admission is $20 and includes a copy of the book. Net proceeds will go to the Center to support literary events.  The novel explores the question of what we owe each other in the name of love. Set in Laguna Beach in the winter months leading up to the pandemic, the story follows

Laguna Urgent Care Ribbon Cutting

On Thursday, March 30th at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce at a ribbon cutting in celebration of Laguna Urgent Care.  “Laguna Urgent Care is proud to be a member of an organization that supports the community, small businesses, entrepreneurs, and the arts,” said owner and founder Amila Nissanka.  “Laguna Urgent Care is an amazing community organization”, said Erin Slattery CEO of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce.  “No appointments are necessary, just fast and efficient medical

Finney's Crafthouse

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Laguna Beach, CA: On Monday, March 13 at 11:30 am the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce had a grand opening ceremony with a ribbon cutting in celebration of Finney's Crafthouse. "Finney's is very proud to introduce the next chapter of the famed White House restaurant to the great city of Laguna Beach.  We were extremely fortunate to have been selected by Jules Marine and his family to be the tenant of such an important historic landmark.  Our Finney's team looks forward to welcoming

Susi Q launches inaugural “Evening with an Author” series featuring novelist Susan Straight

The Susi Q will launch its new “Evening with an Author” series in March, and is delighted to announce that award-winning novelist Susan Straight, author of more than eight books published to world-wide acclaim, has agreed to speak at the inaugural event.“As a voracious reader, like so many of the people who attend the Susi Q’s many creative and educational programs, it’s long been a dream of mine to host an author series in Laguna Beach,” said Nadia Babayi, executive director of Laguna Beach Seniors at the

Mimi & Rae Ribbon Cutting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   Laguna Beach, CA:   On Friday, March 24th  at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in a 1 – year anniversary celebration with a ribbon cutting at Mimi & Rae apparel store.   "Upon the completion of our first year serving Laguna Beach and surrounding cities and visitors, we are pleased to become a member of an organization that supports the community, small businesses, entrepreneurs, and arts” said owner Mimi Lawhon   “We are so excited to celebrate Mimi & Rae’s

AAUW Laguna Beach 34th Annual Literary Luncheon

AAUW holds its popular Literary Luncheon event on Saturday March 11, 2023. at the Surf & Sand Resort. Always a sellout, three women authors you won’t want to miss, Jennifer Coburn, Dori Jones-Yang, and Maggie Shipstead, are the featured speakers.  Bestselling San Diego author Jennifer Coburn has written a mother-daughter travel memoir, We’ll Always have Paris, a handful of delightful women’s fiction novels; and a self-help book, Take Back Your Power: A Working Woman's Response to Sexual Harassment.  Her

No Square Theatre 30th Anniversary

Laguna Beach, CA:   On Friday, March 10th  at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce at opening night of Lagunatics with a ribbon cutting in celebration of No Square Theatre’s30th Anniversary Show of Lagunatics in front of the Forum Theater on the Festival of Arts grounds.  Lagunatics will be performing each weekend from March 10th until their GALA on March 26th.  Tickets to attend a performance can be purchased online here: www.nosquare.org    “As a member of the Chamber and with a

Eco Now Ribbon Cutting

On Thursday, March 2 at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in celebrating the Laguna Beach location opening of Eco Now with a ribbon cutting.  Eco Now is a zero-waste lifestyle brand. “You’ll notice we are transparent with our practices. We lead by example, so our community can be confident that their choices are making a difference.” said preservationist, Thea Merritt-Pauly, Eco Now owner.  “Guests shouldn’t be discouraged if they forget to bring their own containers as there are usually

Creating True Wealth in the New Year By Bart Zandbergen

At the dawn of a new season, creating change is often top of mind. The idea of progress ignites a fire within us that many of us recognize as motivation. However, motivation can fade over time. Resolutions can quickly dwindle if fresh habits are not created to help keep you on track. My life's experiences have shown me that motivation is what gets you started, and habits are what keep you going. When I organize my goals for each year, I know they must be S.M.A.R.T. This means they must be specific,

Laguna Fish Company Ribbon Cutting: 1/20/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   Laguna Beach, CA:  On Thursday, February 9th at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in a welcoming and grand opening ceremony with a ribbon cutting in celebration of Laguna Fish Company.  “At Laguna Fish Company (sister restaurant to Mozambique and Skyloft) we are thrilled to bring the freshest seafood in a quick-service concept to our community of Laguna Beach. And we couldn’t be more excited to make our debut in collaboration with the Laguna Beach Chamber of

Merkababe Ribbon Cutting: 1/19/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   Laguna Beach, CA:   On Thursday, January 19th at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in welcoming Merkababe Designs with a  ribbon-cutting celebration.   “We are so excited to be a part of the Laguna Beach community. Merkababe Designs creates magical and mystical moments in time through our one-of-a-kind, artisan jewelry and hand-selected crystals from all over the world. We hope to add a fun flair to the already magical community, ” said Carly Tway, owner of

Boys and Girl Club Laguna Beach Ribbon Cutting : 1/6/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   Laguna Beach, CA:   On Thursday, January 26th at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce in a ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebration for the new Well Space created for middle school students at the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach’s Canyon Branch. (R.S.V.P. required.) This space was created by Design with a Purpose, a 501 (c) 3  organization with a mission to provide healing environments to families and children in local communities by transforming the interior space

Breakfast Panel: 1/6/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Laguna Beach, CA: On Tuesday, January 24 at 7:30 am join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce for the Breakfast Panel: How do we get the right people in the right seats?   Learn from fellow business leaders on how they find and retain rockstar employees. You’ll come away with best practices for leveraging your core values to attract, retain, reward, and promote the right people in the right seats. Speakers: 1) Dom Farnan, Chief Conscious Connector, DotConnect  2) Nick Shipp,

Ritual Refill Ribbon Cutting: 1/6/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   Laguna Beach, CA:   On Thursday, February 2nd at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce at The Ritual Refill with a ribbon cutting in celebration of their one-year anniversary and welcoming into the Chamber.   “It's been an incredible first year and we are so grateful for the love and support from our community that keeps us going,” said co-owner Danielle Holland.    “We are all looking to do our part when it comes to being kind to the environment,” said Erin

Open for Construction: 12/21/2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Laguna Beach, CA: On Tuesday, January 17 at 11:30 am join the City of Laguna Beach for the Open for Construction workshop at Mozambique Restaurant!   Join your fellow industry professionals for an overview of the New California Building Standards Code.   California Building Standards will soon be entering a new code cycle with significant changes that affect design professionals, engineers, builders,  property owners, and real estate professionals. This presentation will cover

Jedidiah Coffee Ribbon Cutting: 12/20/2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Laguna Beach, CA: On Thursday, January 12 at 5:30 pm join the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony welcoming Jedidiah Coffee!  “We have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the local Chamber this year, and are excited to make it official with a Ribbon Cutting at our Roasting Studio in Laguna Canyon. The timing couldn’t be more perfect as we’re celebrating two years at our current space in January!” said the Co-Founder & Owner Embry Munsey.   “Laguna Beach

Local school kids, Sally’s Fund, Housing and Human Services Committee came a-caroling to 12/12/2022

LAGUNA BEACH, Dec. 12, 2022 –– Holiday cheer arrived on foot last Wednesday when a group of about 30 elementary and middle school children, parents, and members of the city’s Housing and Human Services Committee, Sally’s Fund staffers, and newly elected city councilmember Alex Rounaghi caroled at the Vista Aliso Apartments. The seniors who live in the gated, 71-unit low-income senior housing complex on Wesley Drive waved from their balconies, sang along, and accepted candy canes from youngsters.   This

Spigot: New owners and a new twist give this neighborhood market a much-needed renaissance

By J.J. Ballesteros, Chairman, Board of Directors, Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce  The Chamber Spotlight is meant to highlight a unique business member of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce. At the intersection of Pearl and PCH, another Woods Cove vintage destination reemerges as a venerable neighborhood corner store. Spigot, the longest running business in Laguna Beach, has been offering wines, spirits, beverages and cigars since 1933. Now under new ownership, Shelley Arend and husband Kelly