LAGUNA BEACH
BUSINESS CLUB
Laguna Beach is a special place, home to some highly respected business leaders and business people of refreshing intellect and creativity.
It was only logical that a forum would evolve for sharing ideas, stories, and humor.
Contact Us
MEET THE BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS
We are a diverse group of highly respected business professionals who work or live in the community.
We meet once a month for casual, breakfast meetings with timely presentations by engaging speakers in-the-know.
You are invited to join us for breakfast, lively conversation, and the chance to experience our speaker series on the third Thursday of every month (except December) from 7:30am – 9am.
We meet at Nirvana Grille at 303 Broadway St #101 Laguna Beach, CA 92651. Guest fee of $30 includes buffet breakfast (cash or check only - no credit cards).
One visit to a LBBC meeting and you’ll see we are a friendly, lively and casual group. Our gatherings are free from any referral or networking requirements. We are about friendship, diversity, curiosity, and professional and personal growth. Monthly speakers come to inspire, support, inform, and sometimes entertain us. We are also focused on staying connected to the business community and each other in an informal but meaningful way. Our annual Holiday Party is a favorite tradition.
LBBC was launched and founded in 1996 by a handful of local professionals and entrepreneurs and incorporated in 1998. The intent was to spark an ongoing conversation around business opportunities and shared insights within the context of our community and our lives.
The Club has grown into a vibrant group of successful men and women from a broad spectrum of businesses, meeting for breakfast on a monthly basis. The tradition continues, building and maintaining a pool of professionals and businesses we are proud to recommend to our clients and friends.
LBBC membership is by application only. We allow one member for each classification of business, specialty or profession. Reasonable quarterly dues cover the cost of breakfast meetings and cooperative marketing.
Speakers
Kali Jaye & Lesli Burt
Kali Jaye Coaching & Consulting - Owner of Spa Del Rio
Nikki Honarkar Bostwick
The Fullest - Wellness Company
August 21, 2025, 7:30AM
Burt, an experienced esthetician and massage therapist for both humans and canines, recently represented Spa Del Rio in the World Championship of Massage Therapy in Copenhagen, Denmark. With a background in marketing and sales, she opened the boutique spa alongside her mom and sisters, a close knit family of five. What began as a family venture has grown into a trusted destination for exceptional massage and facial services. Since opening in 2020, Spa Del Rio has been recognized as the #4 Best Massage in the U.S. by Yelp, and holds more 5 star reviews than any other spa in Laguna Beach.
Jaye is an award winning speaker and coach who helps women stop doubting their own brilliance and become successful. With over 20 years’ experience as a corporate leader, counselor, and sober single parent, she’s part strategist, part advocate, and part instigator — known for helping women cut through the noise, listen to their own voice, and go after their biggest vision in life. She partners with female founders and vision-led organizations to turn bold ideas into real results. She’s the creator of Remember Who the F You Are, the rally cry and coaching program for women ready to stop second guessing themselves, start trusting their intuition, and create lives that look like success and feel like freedom.
September 18, 2025, 7:30AM
With her experience as a yoga instructor, studies in plant based nutrition, and exposure to several healing modalities, Nikki Honarkar Bostwick founded THE FULLEST, a wellness company rooted in the belief that emotional health is the foundation of true well-being. Through her line of saffron-based supplements and lifestyle content, she blends ancient wisdom with modern science to help people feel their best, naturally. Nikki also co-founded Baile, a curated marketplace for elevated everyday goods, and is deeply committed to community, culture, and conscious commerce. She lives in Laguna Beach with her husband and two young children.
Alex Rounaghi
Laguna Beach Mayor
Jennifer Cate & Christina Loggee
Cate Collaborative & Little Freebirds
Andrew Myers
Artist and proprietor of Andrew Myers Art Gallery
May 15, 2025, 7:30AM
Mayor Alex Rounaghi is a lifelong resident and the third generation of his family to live in Laguna Beach. Growing up, Alex was always inspired by the unique village character, artistic culture, unparalleled natural beauty, and warm, close-knit community of his hometown. He was elected to the Laguna Beach City Council in 2022, and in 2024, City Council appointed Alex as the new mayor.
Prior to his election to City Council, Alex served as Chair of the Laguna Beach Housing and Human Services Committee. He also worked as Senior Policy Advisor to Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley, overseeing policy initiatives related to housing, homelessness, and public safety.
Alex currently works as a Development Manager at City Ventures, an eco-friendly home-building company. He previously worked at Related California on affordable housing projects in Los Angeles. Alex also serves as a Director for the Laguna Beach County Water District.
Alex received his Bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College and is a proud graduate of Laguna Beach public schools. Outside of his job and his City Council work, he can be found running along Laguna Beach’s beautiful greenbelt trails.
June 19, 2025, 7:30AM
Jennifer Cate, Principal, Cate Collaborative
Jennifer’s longtime dedication to social issues led her to the field of nonprofit fundraising right out of college. Originally from Houston, she worked at the Houston Area Women’s Center, Children’s Museum of Houston, Serve Houston Youth Corps, and the Silberstein Group before striking out on her own and working with a myriad of nonprofits from diverse sectors, such as health, education, social services, environment, and the arts.
After 10 years of working solo, Jennifer founded the firm Cate + Proctor in 2011. When her business partner moved out of town in early 2020, Jennifer renovated the firm into Cate Collaborative and became the sole principal and owner. She has worked in every aspect of nonprofit development with organizations of all sizes and in every sector.
Jennifer recently relocated to Laguna Beach where she is looking forward to establishing new connections and making an impact with area nonprofits.
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Christina Logee is the 4th owner of Little Freebirds, kids clothing, toys and books in Laguna Beach. It has resided in the same location on Ocean Ave. since 2003. Previously an optician, she has explored many career paths in the optical industry including National Director of Professional Development for a large optometry group, Business Coach to hundreds of Optometry clinics, Professor at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and President of the Alberta College of Opticians regulatory board. She has also been a speaker at many industry events lecturing on Leadership & Management, Communication Skills, and many more optical related subjects. She grew up within the patient-centric medical field and this has certainly influenced her attention to detail and high level of high-touch helpful customer service. She has two grown children of her own, was a Girl Scout leader for more than a decade, soccer coach, basketball coach and just genuinely loves kids. Little Freebirds has long been known to have accessible natural and sustainable fabrics with a focus on European and local USA made brands. Being a community minded person, Christina will also bring Little Freebirds more into the fabric of the community. Look for kids craft days, book readings, kids songs, and more at Little Freebirds. Currently Christina is a Laguna Beach Parents Club sponsor, and a member of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce as well as MOMco, previously MOPS. She is bringing the same positive energy and care for her new community as she did for her previous industry.
July 17, 2025, 7:30AM
Born in Braunschweig, Germany and raised in Ciudad Real, Spain, Andrew’s exposure to modern European living and classical architecture inspired the universal and classical themes with modern design found in his artwork. At the age of 20, Andrew applied to the Art Institute of Southern California (now the Laguna College of Art and Design) with no previous training. While touring the school, Andrew saw students depicting live models in clay, and he immediately knew he wanted to be a sculptor. While studying at LCAD, Andrew developed his skills through advanced figurative sculpture and accelerated painting curriculum, providing him with basic working knowledge of the artistic field. But it was Andrew’s drive and passion for creativity that allowed him to cultivate his particular style.
Andrew’s signature “screw art” is created with thousands of screws drilled into a wood board very close to each other at different depths to create a sculptural relief of the image, where each screw head forms a canvas. This steel canvas then gets painted over to mimic the actual image. Although Andrew is best known for his screw art pieces, his work spans multiple genres and mediums, including sculpting, painting, and drawing.
In May 2023, Andrew opened the Andrew Myers Art Gallery in downtown Laguna Beach, where he features his screw art among an eclectic art collection by other artists.
Julie Perlin Lee
Executive Director of the Laguna Art Museum
Jennifer Cate & Mohammad “Mo” Honarkar
Member Spotlight
Chief Niko King
Fire Chief for the Laguna Beach Fire Department
February 20, 2025, 7:30AM
As the executive director of Laguna Art Museum, Lee provides strategic vision and growth, sound financial stewardship and oversight of all aspects of the museum's operations. Lee previously served as the executive director of the Catalina Island Museum during the years 2016–2021, where she spearheaded a period of remarkable growth. Under her leadership, the museum completed a capital project for its new permanent facility and gained prominence through high-profile exhibitions, successful fundraising initiatives and enhanced collections care. From 2008-2016, Lee was vice president of Collections and Exhibition Development at the Bowers Museum, where she directed acquisitions, research, preservation, and the organization of major international exhibitions. Lee holds a BA in Art History, an MFA in Exhibition Design, and a Certificate in Museum Studies, all from California State University, Fullerton.
March 20, 2025, 7:30AM
Jennifer’s longtime dedication to social issues led her to the field of nonprofit fundraising right out of college. Originally from Houston, she worked at the Houston Area Women’s Center, Children’s Museum of Houston, Serve Houston Youth Corps, and the Silberstein Group before striking out on her own and working with a myriad of nonprofits from diverse sectors, such as health, education, social services, environment, and the arts.
After 10 years of working solo, Jennifer founded the firm Cate + Proctor in 2011. When her business partner moved out of town in early 2020, Jennifer renovated the firm into Cate Collaborative and became the sole principal and owner. She has worked in every aspect of nonprofit development with organizations of all sizes and in every sector.
Mohammad “Mo” Honarkar is a seasoned entrepreneur and real estate developer based in Orange County, California, with a proven history of successful ventures. As the Founder, CEO, and President of 4G Ventures, Mo oversees a diverse portfolio of real estate and business investments. Notably, he is driving forward several visionary projects, including the development of a luxury mixed-use hotel in North Laguna Beach, a transformative arts district in Laguna Canyon, and a revitalization of a shopping center in Newport Beach.
His journey began nearly 30 years ago with the successful launch of a high-end men’s clothing line, “Chez Lui.” His keen business acumen led him to establish multiple wireless retail ventures, including GSM Wireless and 4G Wireless, which grew to become major players in the industry before being sold to national retailers.
April 17, 2025, 7:30AM
Chief King was appointed to Fire Chief for the Laguna Beach Fire Department in July 2022, bringing extensive experience and visionary leadership to the role. Chief King began his career with the Sacramento Fire Department in 1994, rising through the ranks to Deputy Fire Chief, where he led both operational and administrative divisions, overseeing areas such as Training, Professional Standards, Recruitment, Emergency Medical Services, and Special Operations.
Chief King holds a Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Defense from the Naval Postgraduate School, a Master of Science in Emergency Services Management from CSU Long Beach, and a Bachelor of Science in Fire Service Administration from CSU Sacramento. He is recognized nationally as an Executive Fire Officer by the U.S. Fire Administration and has actively contributed to leadership roles in multiple regional, state, and federal disasters.
Throughout his career, Chief King has demonstrated exceptional collaboration, fostering strong labor-management relationships and implementing innovative strategies to improve community safety and fire department efficiency. Committed to community engagement and professional excellence, Chief King is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and safety of Laguna Beach residents and visitors alike.
Robert Boxberger
President of Experian, North America
Steve Brittan
president and CEO of Laguna College Art + Design
David Benoit
GRAMMY®-nominated pianist composer/arranger
October 17, 2024, 7:30AM
Robert’s seasoned executive positions in leading high-growth organizations across the financial services and technology sectors lead him to his current position as the president of Experian, North America. Robert has overseen transformational initiatives aimed at driving innovation, operational efficiency, and market expansion. His leadership journey includes key roles at Chase, Citibank and Providian Financial, where he was instrumental in spearheading growth initiatives and fraud strategy.
In addition to his corporate experience, Robert founded and scaled a successful startup, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to drive value from concept to execution. His expertise spans digital transformation, fintech, and AI-driven solutions.
Robert and his wife are long-time Laguna Beach residents.
November 21, 2024, 7:30AM
Steve will be discussing LCAD's connections with local industries and the intersections of emerging technology, fine arts, and industry.
With a background in higher education, the private sector, and city government, Steve is a leader in sustainable, human-centered design. He is a passionate advocate for design’s influence on social, economic, and environmental aspects of daily life. His work spans academic and corporate boards, fine arts colleges, and design panels, and he is widely published and a frequent speaker.
Steve has collaborated on innovative projects, such as a VR-integrated “Surgical Room of the Future” with institutions like MIT and Harvard, and the first digital Urban Information System still used by the Boston Redevelopment Authority. His sustainable smart city project in Portugal became a Harvard Business School case study. He has also led major building projects and consulted for startups and city governments, contributing to the advancement of sustainable urbanization and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Steve has taught art and architecture at several prestigious institutions, including Columbia and Harvard, where he earned his Master’s in Architecture with Distinction.
January 16, 2025, 7:30AM
Benoit’s career as a contemporary jazz pianist began in 1977, and includes 41 solo recordings. Many of these, including his 1987 GRP Records debut “Freedom at Midnight” and its Grammy nominated 1988 follow-up “Every Step Of The Way” are considered influential classics in the genre. He was voted “Keyboardist of the Year” in 2000 and 2001 by the Oasis Contemporary Jazz Awards and on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Chart. He has worked with numerous musicians including the Rippingtons, Emily Remler, the late Alphonse Mouzon, Dave Koz, Faith Hill, David Sanborn, CeCe Winans, Keiko Matsui, Hiroshima, Brian McKnight, Patti Austin, Connie Stevens, Ann Margaret and Lainie Kazan.
Benoit has also been a popular film and television composer. His most notable film scores are The Stars Fell on Henrietta, produced by Clint Eastwood, starring Robert Duvall; and The Christmas Tree, produced by Sally Field, voted Best Score of 1996 by Film Score Magazine. His association with Charles Schulz and the famed Peanuts realm led to over 10 years composing music for the Peanuts TV special on CBS. He’s written themes for All My Children (ABC) and Sisters (NBC), and scored the “Movies of the Week” Final Descent (with the late Robert Urich) and Cadillac Jack (Starring Clint Black). In collaboration with lyricist Mark Winkler, David completed his first Broadway musical, Something’s Got To Give about the life and times of Marilyn Monroe.
Benoit currently hosts a morning radio show on KKJZ 88.1 FM. He continually tours, records, and is composer in residence at Montalvo Arts, and the Music Director and Conductor for the Asia America Symphony Association.
Bree Rosen
Performing Arts Professional
Dr. Wang, Dr. Christopherson-Reed, Dr. Gustinella
Keith Kesler
Former Professor, Marketing Executive
August 15, 2024, 7:30AM
HOW TO LIVE STRONGER : Three medical professionals will discuss three different aspects of the theme.
Dr. Diane Christopherson-Reed, a Laguna Beach Chiropractor for 38 years, she is a Clinical Instructor at Southern California University of Health Sciences and teaches diagnostic assessment, chiropractic techniques, and case management.
DR. M.K. GUSTINELLA is a licensed Clinical Psychologist (Ph.D.) and licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) currently in private practice in Laguna Beach, where she treats individuals, couples, and families dealing with traumatic stress.
Dr. Anita Wang. an emergency medicine physician with 30 years of practice, in 2012 established her wellness clinic in Laguna Beach because she wanted to help people before they found themselves in a medical emergency.
September 19, 2024, 7:30AM
Keith will discuss his extensive and varied career, and his current collaboration with Handel’s Ice Cream.
During Keith’s 28-year career as an advertising and marketing executive, he worked with major corporations, marketing firms, advertising agencies and exhibit houses in helping them shape their brands. He leveraged his experience in developing and implementation of numerous successful advertising campaigns, training courses, vehicle launches, product branding, sports marketing, auto show stands, and events. Keith’s clients included Kia, Honda, Toyota, Subaru, Chrysler, Burger King, Taco Bell, Arby’s, and Rally’s. He also owned an agency for seven years and was a professor at California State University, Fullerton, where he taught brand management and advertising capstone courses. His teachings included managing the AAF (American Advertising Federation) team that competes in a national competition and the student run advertising agency (PRactical ADvantage).
Keith’s passion for food, especially ice cream, lead him and his family to opening a Handel’s Ice Cream store in Orange County in 2018. They are currently working on opening their 12th location.
Keith is a long-time Laguna Beach resident where he lives with his wife and five children.
July 25, 2024, 7:30AM
Bree Burgess Rosen has more than five decades of experience in the performing arts as a professional performer, writer, producer, director, and educator. She is a member of the Actors’ Equity Association and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. She is a former member of the Laguna Playhouse Board of Directors, is the creator and writer of 30 years of LAGUNATICS, (Winner Arts Program of the Year 2022!). Bree serves as the Board President and Founding Artistic Director of No Square Theatre, Laguna’s only community theatre, now in its 25th year. From 2006-2019 Bree worked as writer, director, producer, and as a performer, with Pacific Symphony’s “Class Act” and their Family Musical Mornings concert series. Bree has been honored as both the State of Nevada’s Humanitarian of the Year, and as a “Point of Light” by President George H. Bush for her work as Co-Founder and Past President of Golden Rainbow of Nevada, a non-profit organization providing low-cost housing for persons with AIDS. For her on-going work in Laguna Beach, Bree has been recognized as Woman of the Year, Citizen of the Year, one of Laguna’s Most Influential People, and as Orange County’s 2013 Theater Woman of the Year. In 2021, Laguna Beach Arts Alliance celebrated her Lifetime Achievement for the many contributions she has made to the arts community and city of Laguna Beach.
Katerina Burianova & Dan Newberry
Architect / Dan Newberry Fit Owner
Suzanne Redfearn
Best Selling Author
Mark Kelly
Technologist Silicon Storm
April 16, 2024, 7:30AM - MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Katerina Burianova:
Having grown up between two cultures, Katerina has had the fortune of learning and experiencing the world through a unique perspective. Born in the Czech Republic and raised in the US Katerina chose to pursue
her childhood dream of becoming an architect.
After having completed her architectural degree at IIT she stayed in Chicago for a few years.In 2017 she moved to Orange County where she joined the architectural firm of Morris Skenderian and Associates.
In 2022 she established Katerina Burianova Architecture Inc.
Dan Newberry:
Having played rugby since the age of 6, and being over 270lbs in his teens, he decided to make some life changes. Daniel has over 10 years of personal training experience and widely recognized for shaping some of the hardest bodies in the industry with his unique combination of strength, mobility & endurance training.
“I have always struggled with my body, and took me years to pull myself out of that hole.
While working my way into losing body fat and feeling better, I also gained confidence on & off the rugby pitch. Seeing my success made me want to help others. Looking after your body from inside out, will not only help you look & feel good, but will also improve your self worth.
May 16, 2024, 7:30AM
Suzanne Redfearn is the award winning and best selling author of six novels. Her newest novel, Where Butterflies Wander is about an unexpected journey of healing after a horrible family tragedy.
In an instant, published in 2020 was an Amazon #1 best seller and a USA Today best seller as well as a Goodreads Choice awards finalist. It was named Best New Fiction from Best Book Awards and has been translated into twenty-five different languages.
Her work has also been recognized by RT Reviews, Target Recommend, Publisher's Marketplace and Kirkus Reviews.
A former architect, Suzanne lives in Laguna Beach, CA, where she and her husband own two restaurants: Lumberyard and Slice Pizza & Beer.
June 20, 2024, 7:30AM
Mark Kelly grew up in Glasgow, Scotland, and began writing video games at the age of 14. Although a mechanical engineer by training, developing video games was far more exciting! This began a successful career, taking him to London for a few years before coming to Southern California in 1991. After an initial "quick visit" to help get a game back on schedule, he decided that the climate and lifestyle were to his liking. He has been here ever since.
After retiring from video games in 1997, Mark went on to found, grow, manage, and successfully exit a variety of technology companies, including Pixelpushers, Inc / Civica Software, a web development group specializing in government CMS solutions, PlateScan, a License Plate Recognition company specializing in solutions for Law Enforcement and the US intelligence agencies. More recently was part of the founding team for events.com, serving as their CTO to develop an online platform for managing and planning small to large events worldwide. Most recently, he founded his company, Silicon Storm, a technology development company focused on creating cutting-edge hardware and software applications for User Experiences, Product Development, Augmented/Virtual/Mixed Reality, and AI solutions. Kelly will discuss his career, some past and future projects, and will discuss the phenomenon of copyright and patent trolls
Tommy Phillips
President/Artistic Director of Philharmonic Society of OC
Christopher Goffard
Journalist and podcaster
Daniel Mulrenin
Private Investigator
January 18, 2024, 7:30AM
For over twenty years, Phillips has held artistic positions and programming consultancies at orchestras across the country including the San Diego Symphony, San Francisco Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Grand Rapids Symphony, San Antonio Symphony, Charlotte Symphony, Pacific Symphony, and Mainly Mozart Festival, among others, Phillips has guided music directors, helped build strong artistic foundations, and has worked to connect institutions with their respective communities.
Following his passion for cultural exchange and musical ambassadorship, Phillips is also the co-founder of Black Cats Production Company, an international touring and performing arts organization bringing performing ensembles to China and Chinese ensembles to the United States. His past clients include violinist Joshua Bell, the Shanghai Quartet, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and France’s Malandain Ballet Biarritz.
During his eight years with the San Diego Symphony, Phillips oversaw the strategy and implementation for all artistic programs, festivals, recording sessions, commissioning projects, and national and international tours. He also developed and produced large-scale multi-media concerts (including the first ever Live-to-Film world premiere of a major motion picture with live orchestra), and built key relationships with major brands such as Disney, Paramount and Comic-Con.
February 22, 2024, 7:30AM
Mulrenin will recount the details of his crucial Goffard will discuss the events leading to the creation of a hit podcast and Netflix series, Dirty John, his life’s work as a crime reporter for the Los Angeles Times and current projects.
At the Los Angeles Times, where Goffard has covered crime and courts extensively, he was part of the Pulitzer-winning team that exposed corruption in the city of Bell. He has also twice been a Pulitzer finalist for feature writing. His book, Snitch Jacket was a finalist for the Edger Allan Poe Award for Best First Novel in 2008, and his blockbuster podcast Dirty John was adapted for TV and ranked by Rolling Stone among the two greatest true-crime podcasts of all time.
March 21, 2024, 7:30AM
Mulrenin will recount the details of his crucial involvement in the investigation of the Rayford/Glass case, spearheaded by nonprofit organization, Innocence OC, which led to the release and exoneration of two innocent men from 17 years of imprisonment.
After being honorably discharged from the United States Marines as a sergeant, Mulrenin became a police officer for the Los Angeles Police Department retiring as a lieutenant after 28 years. In addition to various roles with LAPD, Mulrenin served as a detective working burglary, crimes against persons, street, and major narcotics cases, and detective commanding officer and officer-in-charge of LAPD’s Abused Child Unit.
Mulrenin's expertise extended beyond LAPD as he served on a task force with the FBI, LASO and Orange County Sheriff’s Department. He later became the officer-in-charge of LAPD’s Bomb K9 Unit, overseeing administration, training, and deployment of 25 Bomb K9 Teams as well as managing the explosive bunker at LAX. Transitioning into the private sector, Mulrenin has been a private investigator for 15 years and is a member of the Los Angeles Superior Court of Private Investigators. He has handled numerous cases involving robbery, multiple murders, and other criminal and civil matters.
Glenn Gray
CEO - Pacific Marine Mammal Center
Deidra Wager
President of DJW and Associates
Jeffrey Rederker
President - Beach Cities Commercial Bank
September 21, 2023, 7:30AM
Mr. Gray transitioned from being a Board member for PMMC for six years to the organization’s CEO in June of 2022.
Prior to his retirement in 2020 Mr. Gray was involved in the financial services industry for 40 years, of which 20 were in positions of executive leadership.
From 2012 through mid-2020, Mr. Gray was the Chief Executive Officer of CalWest Bank, a $225 million asset commercial bank based in Orange County, California. Prior to joining CalWest Bank Mr. Gray was the Chief Executive Officer of Sunwest Bank, a commercial bank with operations in California and Arizona.
From 1995 to mid-2005 Mr. Gray held senior executive positions with the FINOVA Group, at the time a $12 billion asset diversified commercial finance company. Mr. Gary ultimately was appointed Chief Operating Officer reporting to the Board of Directors. Prior to joining the FINOVA Group, he held positions with Wells Fargo Bank, and Foothill Capital.
Glenn and his wife, Kathryn, have been residents of Laguna Beach since 2000. He is currently a Trustee Emeritus of The Laguna Playhouse, President of the Laguna Beach Police & Community Foundation, a Pink Tie Guy for Susan G. Komen / Orange County, and Chair of the Audit Review & Investment Advisory Committee for the City of Laguna Beach. Mr. Gray is a graduate of the University of Illinois.
October 19, 2023, 7:30AM
Jeffrey S. Redeker serves as the President and Director of Beach Cities Commercial Bank. Jeffrey started his banking career in 1994 at El Dorado Bank. He later moved to Dana Niguel Bank and then Sun Country Bank. In 2000, he became the Vice President/SBA Department Manager at South County Bank in Rancho Santa Margarita. He also served as SVP of SBA and Regional Manager at Capital Bank and Partners bank of California respectively. He has over 29 years of banking experience, primarily in management, SBA management, and business development positions in Southern California. Before organizing Beach Cities Commercial Bank, he served as SVP, Senior Relationship Manager at Cal Private Bank, based in La Jolla, California. During his tenure he was assigned to the Newport Beach office and was responsible for business development as well as recruiting relationship managers and support staff.
Jeffrey has always been active in the local community. He is currently the Chairman of the Government Affairs Committee for the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and has served two terms as Chairman of the Board. He is the past President of the Laguna Beach Rotary Club, and former Chairman of the Laguna Board of Realtors Affiliate Committee. He is also an active member of the Irvine Chamber of Commerce and Chairman and Founder of the Grapes for Grads Scholarship Fundraiser (18 years), one of Orange County’s most successful fundraisers and wine tasting events.
November 30, 2023, 7:30AM
Deidra Wager, President of DJW and Associates, provides strategic advice on retail replication and growth strategy. She spent 13 years as a senior operations executive at Starbucks Coffee Company. As executive vice president, Retail North America, she led operations, marketing, real estate and store development. She spent four years in Tokyo, Japan as Chief Retail Officer, Starbucks Japan. She started DJW and Associates in 2005 and began to pursue her interest in sustainable agriculture and non-profit work.
She is co-founder and serves on the board of The Lacewing Foundation, dedicated to improving health and education of women and children. She is a member of the Women’s Leadership Board of Harvard Kennedy School’s Women in Public Policy Program, focused on gender research, teaching, training and outreach.
She serves on the board and executive committee of North West Harvest, ensuring access to healthy food through a network of 400 food justice organizations including food banks and high need schools.
She enjoys the arts and has served on the Advisory Board of Trustees for the Pacific Northwest Ballet for the past 15 years.
She holds a B.S. in economics from the University of Minnesota and attended the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School.
Marc Wiener
Community Development Director
Ed Steinfeld
Announcer & Radio Producer
Jeff Meberg
Chairman - Pacific Marine Mammal Center
June 15, 2023, 7:30AM
Marc Wiener was appointed Laguna Beach Community Development Director in December 2019. He has 15 years of experience working in coastal communities, having previously worked as director for the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea. He enjoys public service and the unique challenges that come with the position of being director.
Marc focuses on clear communication and finding the most direct path to a solution. He is pragmatic and thoughtful in his approach and seeks common objectives in a collaborative manner. His goals are to improve the Community Development Department practices and procedures, streamline the entitlement process in a sensible manner, address longstanding policy issues, and ensure that the staff is providing exceptional customer service to the community.
July 20, 2023, 7:30AM
Ed Steinfeld has worn MANY hats. He’s been a baseball stadium announcer, stand up comedian, he’s been a boxing matchmaker, (he helped Oscar De La Hoya start Golden Boy Promotions, the most successful boxing promotions Company in the world). He then went on his own to start his own boxing promotions company. But his passion has always been radio. That’s where he thrives. After a 40 year career in radio (interrupted by a 10 year retirement to test those waters), Steinfeld has built and started his own radio station…not a podcast, but a fully functioning radio station. Voice of Laguna is the brainchild of this most creative, and serious fact checker with an entrepreneurial spirit.
He didn’t just start another radio station, he started THE most unique radio station in the world.
His plan; To provide a hub for community, national, and international subject matter and conversations, while appealing musically to the widest range of tastes ever attempted in radio. He will also be producing radio plays, and live radio performances… Real radio, like the heyday of radio.
August 17, 2023, 7:30AM
Jeff’s philanthropic efforts and dedication extend to many organizations in Orange County. In addition to serving on the Pacific Marine Mammal Center Board of Directors as the Chairman of the Board, Jeff also serves on the Board of Directors at the Glennwood Housing Foundation, a residential facility in Laguna Beach for young adults with development disabilities. Jeff is also intimately involved with LOCA, a wonderful educational art non-profit whose members are integrated throughout the Laguna Beach community.
Jeff has been in the environmental recycling business for over 30 years, remediating properties that were contaminated and required soil and water issues. In 2002, Jeff started his own company that recycled waste and created compost and reusable products. Jeff opened the largest compost facility in California that serviced almost all of the municipalities and water districts in Southern California. Jeff sold the business in 2017 to Goldman Sachs.
Archives
Dan Duling, Scriptwriter for the
Pageant of Masters
Dan Duling earned his Ph.D. in drama from the University of Texas, Austin. His plays have been produced throughout the U.S. and honored with a number of awards including the Oregon Playwrights Award for Stranglehold. His recent plays include Only You, Monstrosity, and Tesla: A Radio Play for the Stage, for which a Southern California tour is in the works following a very successful showcase at Laguna Playhouse in 2017. Dan is also a former journalist, having written for publications such as the L.A. Weekly, Los Angeles Times and Los Angeles Herald-Examiner. His writing for television, film and new media has included work for Oregon Public Broadcasting, MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central. The feature film, Last Lives, based on his screenplay, originally premiered on the SyFy Channel and is available on DVD.
Mr. Duling has written extensively about the history of the Pageant of the Masters and the Festival of Arts including the history of their impact on the City of Laguna Beach.
Mr. Duling will speak to the Laguna Beach Business Club about the Pageant of Master’s history, what it is today and will share a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into putting on the Pageant.
Gail Allyn Landau
Founder/Owner Catmosphere
Gail Allyn Landau is the Founder/Owner of Catmosphere Laguna, Orange County’s first cat café. This life long cat lady is an attorney and mediator who graduated from Loyola University of Chicago School of Law in 1980 and completed her mediator training in 2012 at Pepperdine University School of Law. She was one of the Founders and a Managing Partner of Landau, Omahana & Kopka, LLC in Chicago, Illinois and headed the Medical Malpractice Litigation Division for 18 years.
Gail is a member of the Federal Trial Bar, the American Bar Association, the National Association of Women Business Owners, the Humane Society (local and National divisions,) and has been honored by PETA. She is a popular speaker and round-table moderator on subjects ranging from Professional Liability and Medical Malpractice/Tort Reform to Feline/Human Relations and Animal Advocacy. Gail is a proud supporter of the Laguna Beach LGBTQ Heritage and Culture Alliance.
Gail is a nominee for the 25th Annual Women in Business Awards sponsored by the Orange County Business Journal and designed to recognize five outstanding professional women who have made significant contributions to their organizations, their professions and the Orange County community.
The Catmosphere Laguna Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit (which operates alongside the Catmosphere Cat Café) that is dedicated to finding forever homes for homeless, relinquished, and special-needs cats and kittens.
Larry Nokes, Trial Lawyer, Nokes & Quinn
Larry Nokes will speak to the Laguna Beach Business Club about the Historic Preservation Ordinance Revision issues relating to plan processing and design review.
Mr. Nokes’ litigation practice focuses on matters relating to real estate, including land use, building defect, design and construction issues, land subsidence, eminent domain, and inverse condemnation, real estate broker and agent errors and omissions, and general commercial and personal injury litigation, including defamation.
He appears in all California State and Federal Courts. Mr. Nokes enjoys the coveted AV Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, and has been recognized for inclusion by Super Lawyers in its publication. Mr. Nokes has been a featured speaker in seminars hosted by the Society of Professional Engineers on issues concerning design and construction defects.
Dedicated to his community, Mr. Nokes was the chair of Laguna Beach’s View Preservation Ordinance Drafting Committee, completing one of the most successful pieces of legislation the City has produced; he is past president of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and remains a proud member; and he’s currently involved in working with the City to recognize the oppressive application of the existing historic preservation rules.
Gus Samios of Pleasure Distillery
Club meetings begin with an order-from-the-menu breakfast and brief networking roundtable. Meetings are hosted at Kitchen In The Canyon, 845 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 ). Non-members are welcome – guest attendance fee $20. For more information about the club or to register to attend a meeting please contact a club member or email:Info@LagunaBeachBusinessClub.com.
Mohammad Honarkar,
Founder -4G Ventures
Mo Honarkar is a prominent property owner and developer and will speak about his vision for Laguna at the Laguna Beach Business Club breakfast at Kitchen in The Canyon on Thursday, October 18 at 7:30 AM .
Mr. Honarkar is an accomplished Orange County,California based entrepreneur and real estate developer with a longhistory of successful enterprises. Currently, he is the Founder, CEO and President of 4G Ventures, an umbrella corporation for variousreal estate and business investments. Through 4G Ventures, and its subsidiaries, Mo manages and directs a visionary array of exciting projects, including:
• The development of a 171 room Hampton Inn and Suites in the Koreatown section of Los Angeles, California.
• The development of a game changing mixed‐use five‐star hotel property in North Laguna Beach, California.
• The development of multi‐story four‐star hotel in South Laguna Beach on the site of the current, dated Holiday Inn and 14 West Hotel Properties.
• The re‐development of the properties in Laguna Canyon just south of the Sawdust Festival into a new Laguna Arts District.
• The re‐development of a dated and run down shopping center in Newport Beach into a multi‐story, multi‐unit apartment development.
Dr John D. Miller
Mission Hospital Foundation
John Miller will talk about Mission Hospital's role in meeting the health care needs of the Laguna Beach community - past, present and future at the Laguna Beach Business Club breakfast at Kitchen in The Canyon on Thursday, September 20 at 7:30 AM .
Dr. Anita Wang, MD, FACEP.
Dr. Wang, a former emergency Physician will speak about preventive medicine, anti-aging, and skin health. Her passion was instilled by her many patients that requested her to continue to care for them after their care in the Emergency Department. She decided to honor the requests of her patients and dedicated herself to ensure wellness and natural healthy beauty is maintained inside and out for her patients.
Her compassion and skills have taken her around the world and allowed her to adapt a unique skill set that merges eastern influence and western technology. She is dedicated to delivering the highest quality holistic wellness, preventive medicine, and medical aesthetics and continues to practice Emergency Medicine as well as running her own practice and providing care to online patients.
An avid cyclist, Dr. Wang has cycled around the world on philanthropic bike tours for Keshet – A rainbow of hope for special needs children and Bao-ji Xinxing Aid for Street Kids. She believes in helping others with limited resources and has volunteered her services with Doctors Without Borders to provide medical aid to the impoverished regions of China.
In addition to being a Board Certified Emergency Physician, she is also a Fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians, a Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging, and extensively trained in Aesthetics. She graduated from the University Missouri – Kansas City School of Medicine and has spent the over 20 years as an ER doctor previously at UCLA Medical Center, Eisenhower Medical Center and St. Mary’s Medical Center.
Richard T. Cirelli,
RTC Mortgage Corporation
Rick Cirelli will discuss Reverse Mortgage Loans- Is It Right for You? including myths & misconceptions, benefits of the program, why the recent enhancements has created a surge in popularity of the program, how to utilize it as a financial planning tool and as a way to solve the common house-rich/cash-poor challenge of staying in your home after retirement.
Richard T. Cirelli, President of RTC Mortgage Corporation, located in Laguna Beach, California, is a mortgage industry veteran with over 40 years of professional mortgage experience. Throughout his career, Rick has held executive positions with some of the country's largest and most respected mortgage lenders. Since founding his own company in Laguna Beach in 2000, Rick has built a strong reputation as a highly professional and knowledgeable mortgage broker.
Rick has been originating Reverse Mortgages for over 12 years and is a member of the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA); serves on the Board of Directors of the Laguna Beach Seniors and is an active member of the Laguna Board of Realtors, Laguna Beach Rotary Club, Laguna Beach Business Club and the Laguna Beach Professional Alliance.
Laura Farinella,
Laguna Beach Police Chief
Laura Farinella was the former Deputy Chief of the Support Bureau in Long Beach and brings with her 25 years of public safety experience. Since starting her career in Long Beach in 1990, she has worked all Patrol Divisions in the department and held multiple high level command staff positions.
Chief Farinella holds a Bachelor of Art Degree in Communications from Chapman University, and a Master of Science Degree in Emergency Services Administration from the California State University at Long Beach. She is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, FBI National Executive Institute, and has completed numerous post-graduate programs and leadership academies.
Laura lives with her spouse and two children in Rancho Santa Margarita.
Meredith Dowling,
Executive Director LBCC
Meredith Dowling, the new Executive Director of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce will be the guest speaker at the next meeting of the Laguna Beach Business Club.
She joined the Chamber in September 2017, to help transform the organization and implement a new program of work to increase member benefits, support the City's economic development plans, strengthen local partnerships, and make a significant contribution to the business community. Meredith will be highlighting key milestones the Chamber has achieved in the past six months, present an overview of the Chamber's goals for 2018-2019, and share many of the exciting initiatives already underway.
Meredith lives in Laguna Beach and has served in senior executive roles with the San Diego Regional EDC, Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, as well as public affairs agencies and business associations in several cities in the U.S. She is enthusiastic about sharing her new vision for the Chamber of Commerce and looks for ward to gathering input and feedback from everyone at the March 15 meeting on the new direction of the organization.
Gloria Broming
Farm to Fork Garden Design
Farm to Fork Garden Design is the realization of a decades-long dream for Gloria Broming. As a passionate home gardener and perpetual student of organic and sustainable farming practices, she turned what was a hobby and volunteering opportunity into a business.
Farm to Fork Garden Design’s clients include private homes, restaurants, and other businesses interested in edible landscaping. As the Community Farmer for Ranch Life, Harvest Chino, and Harvest Upland Gloria and her team are responsible for the de- sign and implementation of the edible garden and orchards, educational programs (e.g., nutrition, seasonal cooking, farming practices), and volunteer program for their communal farm gardens. Gloria also has speaking engagements with neighborhood associations, civic groups, institutions and others to generate interest in edible landscaping and urban farming.
As a volunteer for Transition Laguna Beach, Gloria has helped homeowners and organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, Neighborhood Congregational Church, and Glennwood House to establish and maintain edible gardens. She also has volunteered with Laguna Coast Wilderness Park in their Native Plant and Wilderness Access programs.
Jon Seeman and Lorraine Passero
Jon Seeman and Lorraine Passero will be the guest speakers at their September meeting. Their topic will be “Inheriting Art: Laguna's First Tradition”.
Art has been an essential component in the lives of husband and wife artists, Jon Seeman and Lorraine Passero.
As a successful sculptor and business owner, Jon has been commissioned by the City of Laguna Beach to create a number of public sculptures. Discovering Jon's artistic heritage, Lorraine was determined to uncover the life and art of his great-great aunt, a 1890s Laguna first woman artist. In her book Distant Indigo, she brings to light for the first time the accomplishments of artist, author, and poet Clara Mason Fox.
Ann E. Wareham - Artistic Director
Laguna Playhouse
AUGUST 15, 2019. 7:30AM1
Ann E. Wareham joined Laguna Playhouse in 2010 as Associate Producer and assumed the role of Artistic Director in August 2011. She worked for 27 years as a producing partner and Producing Associate to Gordon Davidson at Center Theatre Group in Los Angeles.
Rachael Coccia
Surfrider Foundation
JULY 18, 2019. 7:30AM
Ms. Coccia will speak about what the Surfrider Foundation is doing to combat the growing plastic pollution epidemic that is negatively impacting our marine ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. As the plastic pollution manager at Surfrider Foundation, Rachael directs the nationwide Ocean Friendly Restaurants program and manages single-use plastic campaigns across Surfrider’s chapter and club networks.
Shaena Stabler
Stu News Laguna / Newport
JUNE 20, 2019. 7:30AM
Owner, Editor, and Publisher of Stu News Laguna and Founder/co-owner of Stu News Newport,
Ms. Stabler will speak about the Stu News business model and growth; how to pitch and package editorial ideas to her; the value of advertising in the digital age; and how to leverage social media for your business.
Mo Honarkar
Honarkar Ventures
NOVEMBER 21, 2019. 7:30AM
Mohammad “Mo” Honarkar is founder, CEO and president of Honarkar Ventures, which oversees a diverse portfolio of businesses and investments, including Laguna Beach Company, Laguna Creative Ventures, 4G Ventures and The Honarkar Family Foundation.
Tyler Russell McCusker
KX 93.5, Laguna's Only FM
OCTOBER 17, 2019. 7:30AM
Tyler Russell McCusker is General Manager and Founder of KX 93.5. He was raised in Tucson, AZ and moved to California in 2007 to begin a broadcast career, majoring in Multi-Media Journalism at Chapman University. He worked at K-EARTH 101, HOT 92.3, and KIIS FM in Los Angeles before accepting the job as night personality on 93.7 KCLB in Palm Springs.
Rene Shaffer and Tomi Miller
Laguna Coffee Company
SEPTEMBER 19, 2019. 7:30AM
Rene and Tomi will speak about the path that lead them from working in an Arizona based coffee shop to ownership of Laguna Beach Coffee Company, and how they’ve created a coffee house that brings the community together.
Tommy Phillips
Philharmonic Society
JANUARY 16, 2020, 7:30AM
President and Artistic Director.
In a career spanning more than 15 years, Tommy Phillips is known for his innovative programming ideas, reliability and trust within the classical music industry, and for his capacity for creative ingenuity.
Sue Kempf
City Council member
FEBRUARY 20, 2020, 7:30AM
Sue Kempf is serving in her first term as City Council member in Laguna Beach. Prior to her election win, she served 3 terms on the Planning Commission, co-chaired the Emergency Disaster Preparedness Committee and was a member of the View Ordinance Task Force. Sue spent her entire career in the private sector as a company President and an executive in the technology industry.
She will talk about the new Urban Economist report on the downtown as well as the major components of proposed downtown specific plan.
Mayor Bob Whelan
Mayor of Laguna Beach
JANUARY 21, 2021 8:30AM
In a past year of turmoil for our business community and uncertainty about 2021, Mayor Whalen will speak to the successful efforts the City of Laguna Beach has taken and will convtinue to take on behalf of our business owners and residents amidst the COVID-19 chaos. Bob Whalen is currently serving as the Mayor of Laguna Beach. He was first elected to the City Council in November 2012 and was re-elected in November 2016 and in November 2020. He is now serving his fourth term as Mayor. Bob has a long record of public service in the City having served as a board member and President of sevveral local nonprofit groups including SchoolPower, the Boys and Girls Club of Laguna Beach and Laguna Beach Little League.
Cary Redfearn
Restaurateur
FEBRUARY 18, 2021, 8:30AM
Cary will discuss the impact of COVID-19 closure orders and restrictions on his Laguna Beach restaurants. Cary’s ability to pivot and adjust his business model over the last year has been a stunning example of just how a successful restaurateur/entrepreneur survives these times.
Cary began as a busboy at the Marine Room in San Diego working his way through college on his way to a career in medicine, but quickly discovered that medical charts were no rival for the energy of the restaurant business. Before opening Lumberyard, Cary opened eight other restaurants including five Enterprise Fish Companies, what is currently known as Brophy Brothers (it was the John Dory when Cary ran it) in Santa Barbara and Walt's Wharf in Seal Beach.
Howard Robin, M.D.
Founder of NeorahDx
March 18, 2021, 8:30AM
Howard Robin, M.D. is Board Certified in both Anatomical and Clinical Pathology and Immunopathology. His areas of medical expertise include pharmacology, toxicology, autopsy pathology, clinical laboratory medicine, and cancer diagnosis and treatment modalities. He has provided forensic expert testimony in medical malpractice, product liability, civil litigation, and criminal cases.
Nationally known as a compelling speaker and medical expert, Dr. Howard Robin is currently chief medical officer and founder of NeorahDx, a microbial pathogen detection company. The first diagnostic test developed by NeorahDX will be deployed to detect and diagnose COVID-19. The technology is suitable for home use for the diagnosis of flu, colds, urinary infections, and GI problems.
Elizabeth Pearson
Founder of Laguna ADU
April 15, 2021, 8:30AM
Elizabeth served the City of Laguna Beach as a Planning Commissioner for 6½ Years and as a City Council member for 12 years. She served 3 terms as Mayor and is very familiar with the city’s planning and building department processes and also has many positive relationships with City Hall and the City leaders. She also has relationships with many architects and builders who have designed and built in Laguna Beach.
For 12 years, Elizabeth championed the creation of a new Senior Center in Laguna Beach, working tirelessly to move the project forward at City Hall. She garnered citywide support and raised much of the funds to help with the construction costs of the building. The Susi Q Senior Center officially opened in 2009.
Peter Blake
City Council Member
May 20, 2021, 7:30AM
Peter Blake is a renowned dealer of California Light and Space who opened his eponymous Laguna Beach gallery in 1993. The Peter Blake Gallery is recognized today as the longest standing and leading exhibitor of West Coast Minimalism and is know for its rigorously curated solo and group exhibitions. The Gallery’s program has an ongoing history of exhibiting artists long due for reappraisal such as Peter Alexander, Lita Albuquerque, Larry Bell, Mary Corse, Tony Delap, Fred Eversley, Joe Goode, James Hayward, Scot Heywood, John M. Miller, Helen Pashgian, and DeWain Valentine. Over the last decade the gallery has also participated in a number of prestigious art fairs including The Armory Show, Art Los Angeles Contemporary, Design Miami, EXPO Chicago, and Seattle Art Fair.
Mike Garcia
Laguna Fire Department Chief
JUNE 17, 2021, 7:30AM
Mike Garcia came to Laguna after spending over 35 years in the Fire Service working for 3 different departments, most recently working for the City of Long Beach for 28 years. While in Long Beach he worked in Operations in all districts within the city, holding the ranks of Firefighter, Paramedic, Captain, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief, also participating as a long-term acting Fire Chief. He has held many administrative assignments during his career. As a manager he has led the Bureaus of Support Services. Also leading the Fire Prevention Bureau as the Fire Marshal, which included New Construction/plan review,High-Rise, State Mandated Facilities, underground tank/hazmat, Special Events and Filming, Harbor and port Fire Prevention, fire /arson Investigations, and code enforcement.
Laura Ford
Pollinator Protection Fund
JULY 15, 2021, 7:30AM
Ms. Ford's motto is: ‘We’re not here forever, I should give it a go; if you put your mind to it, you can do it!’ This motto has pushed her to perform stand-up comedy to sold-out crowds at the Comedy Store on Sunset Blvd. This was six weeks after arriving into the US. It was also right after Laura learned of the loss of her grandmother the night before the performance. She lost some hair in the grieving process, but she learned that she could do it and make her grandmother proud.
Laura immigrated to the US with her husband on New Year’s Day 2015, arriving in Seattle. Laura went to law school on a scholarship and graduated at the age of 21 and chose to specialize in Environmental Law.
Shohreh Dupuis
Laguna Beach City Manager
August 19, 2021, 7:30AM
Ms. Dupuis will discuss her top priorities as City Manager, including listening and collaborating with all the voices in our community through meetings with various organizations in town and via one-on-one conversations with business owners, residents and staff.
She will also discuss a series of comprehensive engagement and satisfaction surveys to include our business community, residents and entire City staff. The results of these surveys will be presented to the City Council at a future strategic planning session so they can set goals and objectives to pursue over the next five years.
Cottie Petrie-Norris
Assemblywoman California’s 74th Assembly District
September 16, 2021, 7:30AM
Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris is a businesswoman and community leader who was elected to the State Assembly in 2018. In her first term, Cottie has secured millions of dollars in funding for projects in our district and introduced important legislation to combat sea level rise, improve services for veterans and help small businesses.
Cottie serves as Chair of Assembly’s Accountability and Administrative Review Committee and as Chair of the Select Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. She also serves on the Assembly’s committees for Banking & Finance; Revenue & Taxation; Jobs, Economic Development and the Economy and Veterans Affairs.
Sue Kempf
Mayor Pro Tem - Laguna Beach City Council member.
October 21, 2021, 7:30AM
Mayor Pro Tem Sue Kempf is nearing the end of her 3rd year as a Laguna Beach City Council member. Prior service to our community includes nearly 5 years as a Laguna Beach Planning Commissioner, 4 years as Chair of the City's Emergency Disaster Preparedness Committee, and a member of the Council appointed team to draft the View Preservation Ordinance.
In her professional career, Sue was the President of Mirion Technologies Dosimetry Services Division, Managing Director Vodafone PLC and Executive Director at Verizon Wireless. Sue has served on a number of boards including the Vodafone Foundation and the Women’s Professional Volleyball Association.
Billy Fried
Serial Entrepreneur and Local Columnist
November 18, 2021, 7:30AM
Billy Fried grew up in Baltimore and graduated from Amherst College with a degree in English Literature and Asian Studies. Billy worked as a waiter in Honolulu, where he saved enough money to travel the world with a backpack, and immerse himself in Asian culture, which he had studied in college. A little serendipity led to some modeling gigs in Japan, which he then parlayed into travels and work in Europe. He met his then wife in Italy, and they launched a fashion line called Billy Ballo. After selling the business, Billy launched a magazine called Buying, Selling & Owning YOUR HOME. Billy embarked on a career in advertising, first working for global agency WB Doner as Sr VP, Business Development. The agency offered him an opportunity to move to Orange County to oversee and help grow the business. In 2003 he launched kayaks into the ocean with the birth of La Vida Laguna. Over the course of nearly 20 years his eco-friendly business has flourished and grown to now offer stand-up paddling, surfing, hiking, electric bike tours, and a number of corporate teambuilding activities. He has become a thought leader and speaker on corporate culture building through team play.
Steve and Embry Munsey
Owners of Jedidiah Coffee
February 17, 2022, 7:30AM
After six years of managing various local coffee shops, Steve and Embry Munsey had friends and family encouraging them to start a coffeehouse. Because of their love for community and grand adventures, the idea took well—and it took quick! In late 2010 they started dreaming up and working on plans to open a Laguna Beach Coffee Shop in 2011.
Life, with its detours and curveballs, including the sudden loss of their son Jedidiah at birth led them to putting the dream on hold. They found themselves back in Embry’s hometown of Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas five years later in 2016, and ended up launching their Mobile Coffee Bar Experience, “Jedidiah Coffee”. They were a part of many special events, exploring North Texas with their three kids in tow, but SoCal never stopped being home. In 2019 they settled back in Laguna Beach to continue the grand coffee adventure. . They love how coffee cultivates community; one of the many reasons why that they added “coffee roasters” to their resume in 2019. At the heart of Jedidiah Coffee (and the Munsey Family), they see a community gathering around a great cup of coffee.
Jacob Cho
Cho's Academy
March 17, 2022, 7:30AM
Jacob Cho has been actively teaching martial arts in Laguna Beach since 2008. He started with an after-school program at Anneliese’s private schools then opened Cho’s Academy in September of 2009 with Dana Sara, both lifelong practitioners of the martial arts. Cho’s Academy is currently owned and operated full-time by Jacob.
He has a lifetime of experience coming from a family of martial arts experts. More specifically, his father, a first-generation Korean-American immigrant is a Tae Kwon Do master and pioneer who began grooming Jacob at a very young age.
Jacob knew he wanted to teach full-time, but never imagined how challenging, rewarding and life-changing it would be. Although his academy offers classes for all ages, he is most proud of the many opportunities he’s had to have a positive impact working with local kids. His youth programs emphasize and cultivate discipline, work ethic, self-respect through commitment, effort and resulting accomplishments, respect and caring for others, patience, self-control, fitness, self-defense and much more. Cho says, “The values and life-skills that traditional martial arts offer are timeless."
Sean Cook
Founder of Ciao Languages
April 21, 2022, 7:30AM
After graduating with an incredibly useful degree in philosophy from UC Santa Cruz, Sean Cook decided he would live in Florence, Italy for "a year or so." He figured he'd teach a bit of English, ride a scooter around the city like in a Fellini movie and learn to speak some Italian. While there he worked as an English teacher, Italian translator and then as the owner/manager of a largish English school in a medium-sized city on Italy's second biggest island, Sardinia. Never having really intended to move to Italy permanently, and having noticed that twenty-six years had elapsed since his arrival there in 1994, he decided it might be time to move back to the US, which he did in July of 2021, with his wife and two teenagers in tow. He has recently founded the online language school, Ciao Languages, where it is theoretically possible to study any language you could care to learn. He works from his office/home on Holly Street, right next to his mom and step dad's house (Pam and Al Oligino), just like a nice Italian family.
Patrick Di Giacomo
Ingardia Bros. Produce Inc.
May 19, 2022, 7:30AM
After 30 years as a successful financial planner, Patrick decided to pursue another passion.
He enrolled in the chef’s school at Laguna Culinary in Laguna Beach. After graduating in 2008, Patrick took his passion for cooking and community and became head volunteer chef for the Orange County Rescue Mission homeless shelter. Patrick founded and operated the popular Kitchen in the Canyon in Laguna Beach, and is currently working as brand manager/sales rep for Ingardia Bros. Produce Inc. while still serving the community with his culinary skills through Orange County Rescue Mission
Denise Di Novi
Award-winning film and TV producer
June 16, 2022, 7:30AM
Denise Di Novi is an award-winning film and television producer, whose projects have grossed over a billion dollars worldwide. Denise counts among her producing credits such diverse motion pictures as Heathers, Little Women, Practical Magic, Crazy Stupid Love, Focus, and a number of films during her producing association with Tim Burton, including Edward Scissorhands, Batman Returns, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, Ed Wood and James and the Giant Peach.
Denise also has experience as a director. Her directorial debut, the sexy, psychological action thriller, Unforgettable, starring Rosario Dawson and Katherine Heigl was released in April 2017. Di Novi has also directed television episodes of Sneaky Pete, Outlander, and Ray Donovan.
Denise set up her own production company, Di Novi Pictures, in 1993 at Columbia Pictures. She went on to have a production deal at Warner Bros Pictures for two decades where she produced many incredible films. Most recently, Di Novi produced the AppleTV+ film The Sky Is Everywhere, directed by Josephine Decker.
Denise was the recipient of Women in Film’s 2016 Crystal + Lucy Award for Excellence in Film.
Anders Lasater, AIA
Anders Lasater Architects, Inc.
July 21, 2022, 7:30AM
By the time Anders was 10 years old, he knew that he’d grow up to be either an architect or a heavy metal drummer. Anders shifted focus from the music studio to the architectural studio when ‘90s, grunge and alternative music pushed heavy metal out of the spotlight, and he began working for some of the best architects in Orange County. After finishing two degrees in architecture and design theory, Anders opened the doors to his own firm in 2005 where Anders specializes in innovative designs for custom homes, galleries, salons, restaurants, retail fashion boutiques and specialized commercial projects. He’s fortunate to have a diverse group of passionate architects working for him who find the same joy in making thoughtful architecture as he does.
Anders received a Master of Architecture degree from UCLA and Bachelor of Architecture degree, cum laude, from Cal Poly Pomona and served on the faculty of Cal Poly Pomona where he taught architectural design studio for 2 years. Anders continues to be a guest lecturer and juror for architecture and design classes at Cal Poly Pomona, Cal Baptist University, USC, Saddleback College, Orange Coast College, Cal State Long Beach, Los Angeles Institute of Architecture, and Design, and Chapman University.
Marilyn Montero
C.Ht. Clinical Hypnotherapist
August 18, 2022, 7:30AM
As the owner of Marilyn Wellness Studio located in beautiful Laguna Beach, California, Marilyn Montero serves clients to provide a magical experience with hypnotherapy, life coaching, and wellness coaching for all areas of their lives. These areas include weight loss, anxiety, stop smoking, depression, relationship, habit control, and much more. Marilyn uses her wisdom, education, skills, kindness, and natural intuition to provide an enhanced experience that allows clients to achieve optimal wellness.
Her goal is to understand where her clients are and help them discover their true-life desires to devise a personalized treatment plan that includes hypnosis to help them elevate as individuals to support all areas of their lives. Marilyn is driven by the concept that everyone she can help will have positive effects in the world.
As a clinical hypnotherapist, wellness coach, and life coach, Marilyn is passionate about helping others grow towards wellness. She lives with a deep passion for helping people, this fuels her soul when the results become their reality.
Marian Keegan
Art of Fitness co-owner
October 20, 2022, 7:30AM
Marian will discuss surviving COVID and maintaining a business in Laguna Beach for over 20 years.
Marian has a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Northern Kentucky University where she was a scholarship athlete in basketball and volleyball. She went on to receive a master’s degree in exercise physiology while pursuing coaching at Indiana University, ultimately becoming a head coach at University Of Wisconsin-Richland. Marian’s love for sports and fitness, and wide-ranging experience as a business owner has helped guide her vast experience in the industry as a general manager, sales manager, and owner.
Ian Cairns
Surf champion co-founder of Surfing.com - World of Waves
November 17, 2022, 7:30AM
Ian Cairns was born in Melbourne, Australia on July 24th, 1952, grew up in Cottesloe, a beach suburb of Perth, Western Australia and has been a surfer for over 55 years. Honing his surfing in the big and stormy waves of Yallingup and Margaret River, 200 miles south of Perth, Ian developed world-level big wave skills that lead to a successful 10-year pro surfing career. Ian was influential in establishing the world professional surfing circuit and particularly the World Championship Tour. He was known as the premier "power" surfer of his era who dominated the North Shore during the mid to late-seventies.
In the 1980s Ian coached young surfers and in 2010 became the Head Coach of Surfing America winning world Championship Gold at the ISA World Games in 2010, ISA World Masters in 2013 and ISA World Standup and Paddling Championships in 2015. In late 2020 Ian and his partners launched a new media venture, Surfing.com, and produced and syndicated the World of Waves TV (WOW).
Alex Rounaghi
Laguna Beach City Council
January 19, 2023, 7:30AM
A lifelong resident of Laguna Beach, Alex Rounaghi was elected to the Laguna Beach City Council in November 2022. His top priorities include undergrounding power lines on Laguna Canyon Road, fully funding public safety, addressing housing needs for seniors and artists, protecting the environment, and advancing data-driven government. Prior to his election, Alex served as Chair of the Laguna Beach Housing & Human Services Committee. Alex is a graduate of Laguna Beach public schools and Dartmouth College.
Jorg Dubin
Artist / Production Designer
February 16, 2023, 7:30AM
Based in Laguna Beach, CA, Jorg Dubin has had an extensive career creating paintings, sculptures, ceramics and working in design for over forty-five years. Dubin studied painting at the Art Institute of Southern California with Stephen Douglas and sculpture and design with Kris Cox and Richard White. He has been the art director, set builder, and production designer on seven films for O Entertainment. Dubin designed and fabricated the Sept. 11th. Memorial for the city of Laguna Beach titled, “Semper Memento”, (Never Forget), built from two I-beams from the world trade center. He has also created over ten site-specific sculptures and has created work for the hospitality industry all around the country for their public spaces and high-end restaurants. Dubin currently maintains a painting and sculpture studio in Laguna Beach, CA.
Bob Whalen
Laguna Beach City Mayor
March 16, 2023, 7:30AM
Bob Whalen has lived in Laguna Beach since 1984 with his wife Kirsten. Their three children attended and graduated from Laguna schools. His wife Kirsten is a fine artist who has been showing her work at the Festival of Arts for the last 15 years.
Bob is a lawyer who has been practicing for 45 years with a focus on public finance. He has assisted many public agencies in California finance and build all types of public improvements.
Bob has been serving the residents of Laguna as an elected official for 20 years with ten years on the School Board and ten on the City Council. He is currently serving his fifth term as Mayor.
Bob has also served on the board of several nonprofit organizations including the Orange County Community Foundation, Project Youth, the Boys and Girls Club of Laguna Beach, SchoolPower and the Laguna Art Museum.
Chief Calvert
Laguna Beach Police Chief
April 20, 2023, 7:30AM
Laguna Beach Police Chief Calvert is a 25-year law enforcement veteran who began his career as a reserve Deputy with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department before being hired as a Deputy Sheriff with the Orange County Sheriff's Department. In 1996 he found his calling at the Laguna Beach Police Department. During his tenure in Laguna Beach, Chief Calvert has worked a variety of assignments, including Patrol, Field Training Officer, Special Investigations Unit Detective, Sergeant, and Lieutenant Shift Commander. As Captain, he also led both major divisions within the Police Department: the Support/Investigative Services Division and the Field Services Division.
Sean Guin
Founder of Raw Timberwood
May 18, 2023, 7:30AM
Sean is the founder and president of Raw Timberwood, Orange County’s premier importer of tropical exotic hardwoods. The company specializes in the manufacture and wholesale of unique residential and commercial furnishings. With his gallery and warehouse rooted in the Laguna Beach Canyon, Sean has created a home for his life’s work showcasing the endless possibilities that Raw Timberwood has to offer.
During a career that spans over two decades, Sean has developed a reputation for his creative outlook in designing and manufacturing one-of-a-kind architectural masterpieces. Sean’s passion for carpentry started at a young age shadowing his grandfather in the trades.
Sean’s roster of high end residential and commercial projects include NFL stadiums, hospitals, universities, hotels, and his personal favorite—the beautiful homes and restaurants of Laguna Beach.
2019
2018 July - Oct
2018 April- June
2018 / 2017
2019 June - August
2019 Sept - Nov
Jan 2020 - Jan 2021
2021 February - April
2021 May- July
2021 August -October
Nov 2021 -March 2022
April - June 2022
July - October 2022
Nov. 2022 - Feb.2023
March - May 2023
301 Forest Ave.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
tedalvarez@alvarezcpas.com
949-497-3371
401 Glenneyre, Ste. D
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Diana@lagunalawyers.com
949-494-9211
Women’s Clothing & Accessories
1200 N. Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
deannafrieze@sbcglobal.net
949-300-1888
1100 S. Coast Hwy., Ste. 208
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
dkeller@bancapselfstorage.com
https://www.bancapselfstorage.com
949-715-2233
255 Thalia St, Ste B
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
info@anitawangmd.com
949-734-0580
Our members
1000 N. Coast Hwy, Ste. 10
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
nanderson@andersonlawgroupinc.com
http://www.andersonlawgroupinc.com/
949-715-4303
1000 N. Coast Hwy, #7
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
rick@rtcmortgage.com
949-494-4701
380 Glenneyre, Ste. D
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
mkgustinella@aol.com
949-262-7880
345 North Coast Higway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
mo@lagunabeachcompany.com
https://www.lagunabeachcompany.com
949-494.1018
775 Laguna Canyon Rd.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(619) 917-0900
1502 N. Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
dianereedc@cox.net
949-497-3212
950 Glenneyre Street
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Dave@csira.com
949-500-3283
1217 Temple Hills Dr.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
mammoth-condos@cox.net
www.mammoth-condo-rentals.com.
949.494.6788
375 Glenneyre Street
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
erin@lagunachchamber.org
https://www.lagunabeachchamber.org
949.494.1018
227 Ocean Ave, Laguna Beach CA
Community and Corporate partners
We are proud to announce that a new collaboration has been created between the Laguna Beach Business Club and Laguna Beach Seniors. Entitled “Community and Corporate Partners”, the collaboration provides a community of local businesses committed to supporting the aging population by incorporating the skilled volunteers and resources of the Business Club Members into activities of the Susi Q.
For the benefit the constituents of the Susi Q, the Business Club members are committed to providing service and support to the senior community throughout the year by:
• Having access to expert advice when needed
• Creating opportunity for local corporate employees to volunteer with LBS
• Sponsor programs offered by LBS with name recognition and visibility
• Incorporate annual opportunities for days of service
• Establishing a lasting partnership with our friends.
• Business Club members commit to providing service support to the senior community during the year.
“We are delighted to join with the members of the Laguna Beach Business Club who are offering to share their professional expertise and experience to help the Susi Q serve the community more successfully.”
Cody Engle, Susi Q President
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President:
Sean Guin, Raw Timberwood
Secretary:
Pamela Knudsen,
Blue Bell Foundation for Cats
Treasurer:
Noah Ariciaga, Laguna Canyon Smog and Repair
Jerry Immel, Mammoth Condo Rentals
Membership Director:
Rick Cirelli, RTC Mortgage Corporation
Directors:
John Wallace Benecke, Interior Design
Anita Wang, MD, FACEP, APC
Gail Landau, Catmosphere Laguna
Past President:
Dan Niazi, Laguna Beach Company