Pacific Edge Hotel

Fun in the Sun for Charity

2012-03-19T11:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the sold out Snack, Sip, and Surf event we hosted here last weekend. As part of Laguna Beach a la Carte, our local foodie festival, we mixed it up a little for charity.
A mixology competition with five of the hottest mixologists in Orange County, a taco showcase with some of our favorite local taco joints, and a paddle board relay race with some of our local pro-surfers.
What could be better than snacking, sipping and surf fun? Doing it for charity!

http://storify.com/marciemarketing/pacific-edge-hotel-hosts-fun-charity-event?awesm=sfy.co_hJI&utm_campaign&utm_medium=sfy.co-twitter&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_content=storify-pingback

http://www.examiner.com/restaurant-in-anaheim/snack-sip-surf-event-at-the-pacific-edge-hotel-laguna-beach-ca

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.325015260887881.75775.179617545427654&type=3

Staycation, it is!

2012-02-24T09:06:00.001-08:00

With Spring Break quickly approaching, what better way to enjoy the time than with a little staycation?
Thank you to Marcie Taylor of OC Metro for highlighting some of the wonderful "Staycation" options we have here at Pacific Edge Hotel.
http://www.marcietaylor.com/blog/2012/02/24/pacific-edge-hotel/

Winter Wonderland

2012-01-14T11:18:00.000-08:00

With the holidays behind us and Spring so far in the distance, we have a long stretch of winter ahead. For the locals, the 40- to 50-degree Laguna nights certainly put a wintery nip in the air. For those of us who are transplants or just visiting for a while, this is quite a ways from the winter woes we're used to. With the beautiful sunny, 70-degree days, we may even forget that some of our far-away friends are defrosting their cars and shoveling themselves out. To those of us lucky enough to be in Laguna Beach this time of year, let's lift a glass in a toast to the tremendous retreat we have surrounding us. For those of you shivering in the chill of the real winter weather, we hope to see you soon!

Seasonal Sunset

2011-12-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

We locals may be all bundled up for the winter, but sixty degrees and sunny may not sound like winter to a lot of folks out there. If you're headed out of town for the holidays, keep warm. And if you're headed into town for the holidays, welcome to Laguna Beach.
Celebrate the season with us here at Pacific Edge Hotel, one of Sunset Magazine's 25 Best Hotels in the West.
Happy Holidays!

http://www.sunset.com/travel/best-hotels-in-the-west-00418000073593/page24.html

Hot Chocolate and Hospitality

2011-12-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

We love the local charm of our home here in Laguna Beach. And what better way to kick off the holidays than with a little Laguna Beach hospitality? That's right, tomorrow night is Hospitality Night in Laguna Beach. The festivities are downtown 5:00-9:00 PM. Here at Pacific Edge Hotel, we are getting into the holiday spirit with a Hot Chocolate Happy Hour starting at 4:30. Cheers to the holiday season!

Check out OCinSite.com for more details:
http://www.ocinsite.com/index.php/calendar/details/hospitality_night_in_laguna_beach?utm_source=Firebrand+Media+LLC+List&utm_campaign=a57ff0e77b-Weekly_Line_Up6_14_2011&utm_medium=email

Laguna's Beaches, Second to None.

2011-09-15T16:52:00.000-07:00

Laguna Beach boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in California. The city's seven miles of picturesque Pacific coastline features plenty of pristine sandy beaches. Throughout the year, you'll find beachgoers of all ages soaking up the sun and enjoying all the great activities you'll find in Laguna Beach. Map of Laguna Beaches.

Lounging in the soft, warm sand is only the beginning of what you can do here at the beach. Surfing and skimboarding are popular among locals and visitors. With up to 15-foot waves, the coves along Laguna Beach's coastline are home to some of the best waves in southern California. Or, cast a line and try your luck at the plentiful fishing along the coast of Laguna Beach.

Exploring the underwater world is fun and exciting in Laguna Beach, which is home to amazing diving. You'll discover a new world just beneath the waves filled with fish, anemones - even the occasional octopus!

But you don't have to dive to experience the amazing marine life hidden just below the waves. Laguna Beach boasts impressive tidepooling opportunities, giving you an up-close look at marine life without having to get your hair wet! Nestled within the rocky outcroppings that frame Laguna Beach's white sand beaches, you'll find an amazing display of marine life that calls this unique environment home. Check out our tidepool video for a sneak peek at the amazing sights you'll see while tidepooling in Laguna Beach.

While you explore the coves of Laguna Beach, please help us keep these beaches beautiful for years to come! All of Laguna's beaches and coves are designated "Marine Protected Areas," so remember:

• Deposit all litter in designated containers. Keep trash out of our parks and out of the food chain.
• Stay on designated trails. Prevent erosion and preserve plant and animal habitats.
• No pets are allowed in wilderness parks. Protect wildlife and your fellow park visitors.

With such an amazing variety of things to do and ways to relax at the beach, it's easy to see why Laguna Beach is a prime vacation destination for visitors from around the world.

“The Back Room” Group Exhibition

2011-09-10T16:56:00.000-07:00

WHEN: August 04, 2011 - September 30, 2011
WHERE: JoAnne Artman Gallery
ADDRESS: 326 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach CA 92651
PHONE: 949-510-5481
TICKETS: www.joanneartmangallery.com
ADMISSION: Free

JoAnne Artman Gallery, Presents in the Main Gallery: “The Back Room” Group Exhibition Including Artists Valerio D’Ospina, Peregrine Heathcote, America Martin, and Anja Van Herle. August 1st, 2011 – September 30th, 2011 Opening Reception: Thursday, August 4th, 6-8 pm to coincide with Laguna Beach Art Walk Please RSVP: 949.510.5481 by August 1st JoAnne Artman Gallery 326 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 92651 Contact: JoAnne Artman Telephone: 949-510-5481 E-mail, Web site, Open Wed-Sunday, 11-5 & by appointment;

First Thursday of every month 6-9pm Month after month, JoAnne Artman Gallery exhibits new work in our front gallery spaces by our featured artists in a thoughtful and thematic way. However, each month many of our viewers are enthralled by the “Back Room” in our gallery which is why we have decided to unlock our hidden treasures and feature our “Back Room” artists including Valerio D’Ospina, Peregrine Heathcote, America Martin, and Anja Van Herle! Emilio Valerio D’ Ospina was born in Taranto September 9, 1980. On July 14, 1999 he received an artistic diploma from Liceo Artistico Statale “Lisippo” in Taranto, where he was first introduced to the world of art.

In November of the same year he moved to Florence to further his artistic studies. There he enrolled in his first painting course under the instruction of Professor R.Giovannelli in the Accademia di Belle Arti. He also began to work in an antique‐painting restoration studio under the restorer Maurizio Bazzini, who gave him insight to the “character” of old paintings. On February 25, 2005, after preparing an experimental thesis in the study of “fisiognomica”, Valerio graduated with a degree in Painting.

At 27, Valerio traveled to America to begin teaching Classical Drawing and Painting, summer session II for the fine art department at IUP. Nevertheless, after this teaching experience, he decided to focus exclusively on painting, receiving positive feedback from private collectors from around the world. Since July 2009 Valerio is established in the USA where he lives and works. Valerio D’Ospina. “Lightning.” Oil on Canvas. 58” x 45”.

Peregrine Heathcote, born in London in 1973, graduated from the Florence Academy of Art in 1995 and currently lives and works in Chelsea, London. The BBC have recently filmed a documentary on Peregrine’s portrait painting which has been aired worldwide.His paintings, including commissioned portraits of prominent executives, aristocrats, and socialites, have been exhibited at the Royal Society of Portrait Painters, the Royal Academy, and are collected and exhibited all over the world.

Peregrine Heathcote’s paintings conjure a world of intoxicating glamour and intrigue, slipping across the boundaries of time to fuse iconic pre-war design with modern conceptions of beauty and silverscreen-era romance. The images could depict a dream world—the pure artistic vision of a painter fascinated with the bygone glamour of his parents’ youth and his own childhood spent in Britain and Dubai, but also by the contemporary incarnation of glamour in an international jet-set culture.

The images could be literal representations of actors on movie sets, or real-life models letting their contemporary sensibilities peek through as they pose against period backdrops. Each canvas suggests a story, prompting us to imagine the circumstances around a single crucial scene. Heathcote purposefully leaves such questions open, allowing us room to construct multiple narratives. This weaving in and out of various realities, blending the literal and metaphoric is achieved with great skill, imagination, and ingenuity. Peregrine Heathcote.

“The Lightness of Being.” Oil on Canvas. 21” x 25”. Born in Belgium in 1969, Anja Van Herle combines a European sense of high fashion in her artwork with an American sense of wonder. Her childhood years were devoted to exploring the fundamentals of her art using crayons, pencils and watercolors. In 1987, she enrolled in Belgium’s Higher Institute for Art Education where she earned a Master’s of Fine Arts in Painting. In 2003, Anja relocated to Los Angeles, where she now concentrates on figurative paintings that are inspired by both classic and contemporary fashion while exploring issues of identity, emotion and human interrelationships.

As timelessly chic as Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Anja’s women are playfully sexy, and their expressions and eyes tell stories that go far beyond the simple exhibition of fine fashion. In Anja’s masterful hands, fashion becomes alive. Anja Van Herle. “Bow.” Acrylic on Panel. 52” x 40” These artists will inspire, provoke, engage and mesmerize. With visual perceptions always changing, peek behind the stories told and you're sure to find the right artistic expression! JoAnne Artman Gallery is located at 326 N. Coast Highway in Laguna Beach and is open Wednesdays-Sundays from 11-5, and by appointment.

Visit the first Thursday from 6-9 pm of any month to coincide with the Laguna Beach Art Walk. Street parking is available directly in front of the Gallery as well as the Downtown Parking structure located at Glenneyre Street. Take a stroll through the galleries and studios. See art come alive in North Laguna!

A Visit From Rodin - Pure Art, Pure Laguna

2011-09-04T16:36:00.000-07:00

Laguna College of Art + Design’s (LCAD) gallery is showing 14 figures by the great Auguste Rodin, arguably the greatest sculptor to live since Michael Angelo. The exhibit is on loan from the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation, the owner of the largest collection of Rodin sculptures in the world. Rodin redefined sculpture in many ways including his faithfulness and representation to and of nature, his expressively-modeled surfaces (using the surface to portray the emotion of his subjects), and by showing partial figures and fragments as complete works of art.

The story of how this Rodin exhibit ended up at LCAD is one of chance, or rather fate. Nearly one year ago Ryan Fisher, a trustee of the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation, came to visit LCAD and was interested in taking a sculpting class. During his visit Mr. Fisher learned about the college and their commitment to the representational nature of sculpting, the idea that a sculpture tells a story, and that there is a narrative aspect to art. This of course is in line with Rodin’s impressionistic techniques and his mission to convey the human spirit through sculpture. LCAD’s new President, Jonathan Burke, was not aware of Mr. Fisher’s connection with to the Cantor Foundation when they first met that day, but when he mentioned his tie, a vision of having a Rodin exhibit in Laguna Beach was born. Mr. Fisher believed that if Rodin was a student today, LCAD would be is college of choice because of their commitment to impart the enduring language of representational art.

After many months of preparation, the 14-piece Rodin exhibit came to life at LCAD. It has been the highest attended show at the gallery in the history of the college. And no wonder! On my visit I was overcome with amazement of the beauty each figure held. The feeling of movement and emotion…the subtleties that brought them to life…just incredible! For instance one of Rodin’s most well-known ‘fragment’ pieces is “The Walking Man” which is a seemingly incomplete figure without a head. Yet, when you take the time to get to know him, he does not seem to be missing anything at all

Lost Wax
Another part of the exhibit is a 10-piece step by step representation of the Lost Wax casting process. Most people don’t realize that the work of a finished sculpture is about 25% actual creation and 75% is the process of casting and bronzing. Lost Wax is an ancient casting process that allows the artist to accurately reproduce the nuances of the original model. This process can be sent and done at a foundry, but many individuals do not have the financial resources to do so, and therefore do many of the steps on their own.

The Cantor Foundation has a group of pieces that show ten of the steps of the Lost Wax process. In order to show how Lost Wax is done, the Cantor Foundation reversed the engineering process from a Rodin sculpture. Seeing this process in-person gave me an even greater appreciation of the labor that goes into producing these bronze sculptures. This special and intimate Rodin exhibit at the LCAD gallery is a show you don’t want to miss! It is on display now through September 23, 2011. Admission is FREE.

Hurry to Laguna College of Art + Design for your chance to see the extraordinary works of Rodin up-close.

Gallery Hours
Monday - Friday 11:00 am - 5:00pm
Saturday by appointment only - 10:00 am - 4:00pm
Sunday Closed

7th Annual Laguna Beach Million Dollar Home Raffle

2011-08-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't want to win a million dollars? The Ocean Institute presents its 7^th Annual Laguna Beach Million Dollar Home raffle. Buy your tickets before AUGUST 17th to WIN great prizes in the first early bird drawing. You can win $1 million dollars or this beautiful Laguna Beach home.

Enter by August 17 and you qualify for 6 bonus drawings - Seventy six thousand in cash and prizes.

Buy 2 or more tickets and qualify for 12 drawings and your chance to win 3 Prius Hybrids - Over two hundred thousand in cash and prizes.

The earlier you enter the more chances you have to win

More prizes, more fun! Some one will win big, Why not you? Tickets are one hundred and fifty dollars.

Enter today: Call 949 542 3600 and tell them Pacific Edge Hotel on Laguna Beach sent you. You can also download an entry form from this site:

http://www.ocean-institute.org/raffle/index2.html

Plus, when you call you may win a prize provided by Pacific Edge Hotel instantly!

August Happenings at the Laguna Beach HIP District

2011-07-26T14:16:00.000-07:00

August brings more exciting events to the HIP District’s many art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, bars, hotels and shops

Spanning seven blocks of Pacific Coast Highway between Anita Street and Blue Bird Canyon, Laguna Beach’s HIP District has it all, from bars and restaurants to accommodation and a variety of retail shops.
Many of our art Galleries will be participating in the First Thursday’s Art Walk on August 5th, from 6 to 9PM. The Studio Arts Gallery at the Old Pottery Place will be having three special events on the night. The first is the reception and premiere for artist Suzi Chauvel, a multi-media collection called Chasing the Horizon. The second event is for artists Susan Thacker, the reception and premiere for her collection of paintings, Over and Above. On the patio while you browse the gallery, the sounds of professional violinist Paul McIntire will be heard and Gabriella Ferrin’s multi-ethnic designs will be on display.

The Cove Gallery near Calliope Street will be presenting two guest artists this August. Browse local artist Lucy Arnold’s hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces in sterling silver, gold, bronze, copper and natural gemstones. Janet Mackaig takes images from memory and creates works of art with a “visual haiku attitude.” Both of these artists’ unique work shouldn’t be missed.

The Laguna Coffee Company’s artisanally created coffee is the tastiest coffee around—and they’ve got proof. One of the shop’s regulars entered their Estate Costa Rican coffee into the Sierra Club’s recent coffee challenge. The eight participants brought their favorite roast from their local shops on the trip to Chaco Canyon, New Mexico, and Laguna Coffee’s was the top pick. So come on by and pick up a pound of the Estate Costa Rican coffee for only $10 during the month of August and help them celebrate!

Feeling stressed or perhaps sore from all your summer activities? Stop by the Laguna Sports Massage & Skin Spa in August and treat yourself to two relaxing massages for only $169, or a facial and massage for the same price. On your way out, pick a gift out for yourself or a friend at the Jewelry Den, where there’s 20% off the entire store during the month of August. 3

Between 2 and 4PM each Saturday during the month, return to the Old Pottery Place for a free summer concert series. On August 7th and 14th, listen to the artistic expressions of professional violinist Paul McIntire. The third Saturday brings the incredible lyrics and voice of Sasha Evans, followed on the 28th with the brilliant and popular Jason Feddy on the acoustic guitar.

A trip to Laguna Beach this weekend will not be complete without a tour through the HIP District, where both locals and tourists find the best shopping, dining, art and accommodations in town.
The HIP District stretches between Anita Street and Blue Bird Canyon on Pacific Coast Highway. For more information on the stores listed above, please contact:

+ Studio Arts Gallery: (949) 376-1619 • studioartslaguna.com
+ The Cove Gallery: (949) 494-1878 • covegallerylaguna.com
+ Laguna Coffee Company: (949) 494-6901 • lagunacoffeeco.com
+ Laguna Sports Massage and Skin Spa: (949) 464-2000 • lagunasportsmassage.com

For HIP District press enquiries, please contact Jennifer Myers via phone on 949.463.8134 or via email at jennifer@eitherormedia.com.

2011-07-08T15:50:00.000-07:00

Beachfront vibe. Upscale luxury. Pure Laguna Beach.

Imagine kicking back in your own personal beachfront oasis. The Surf Cabanas here at Pacific Edge will take your day at the beach to another level!

Whatever your perfect beach experience is, the Surf Cabana will probably have it. Pacific Edge has an ideal beachfront setting with Beach Sherpas and Cabana Girls to attend to your every need: lounge chairs, towels and umbrellas, cocktail orders or delicious eats from The Deck Restaurant!

If you feel like turning up the energy, we have that covered as well, Pacific Edge offers a VIP Cabana Host to assist you in planning a fun-filled day from spray-tanning to massages to a fun filled cocktail party all in the comfort of your beachside, air-conditioned cabana!

The Deck, a new dining experience at Pacific Edge, is where it is at! The ultimate beachfront dining experience, The Deck is located steps from the sand with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean offering classic beach fare and a breathtaking setting. The Deck is open from 11:00am - 10:00pm daily.

Guests can reserve a Surf Cabana for up to 8 guests from 10:00am to 10:00pm daily by calling 714-965-4447 for rates and availability.

Sawdust Art Festival

2011-07-08T11:52:00.000-07:00

WHERE: Sawdust Art Festival
ADDRESS: 935 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach, CA 92651
WHEN: June 24, 2011 - August 28, 2011
WEBSITE: www.sawdustartfestival.org
PHONE: 949-494-3030

The Sawdust will feature the fine art and craft of over 200 Laguna Beach artists and is sure to be the highlight of your summer adventures. Join our email list to receive Sawdust updates and special offers.

Art enthusiasts, collectors, and novice artists have come to the Sawdust since our beginning in 1966 for our mix of fine art and craft. Media include hand-blown and fused glass, painting, jewelry, surf art, ceramics, clothing and textiles, wood and metal sculpture, scrimshaw, photography, and so much more.

Our artists are eager to share their creative process with you so please feel free to ask our exhibitors questions, take an art workshop, and enjoy our live art demonstrations.

Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Safari

2011-07-07T11:48:00.000-07:00

WHERE: Dana Point Harbor
ADDRESS: 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629
WHEN: May 28, 2011 - May 29, 2011
WEBSITE: www.lagunabeach.com/dolphinsafari
PHONE: 949-488-2828
ADMISSION: $55 per adult / $35 per child ages 3-12

Come sail with Capt. Dave's Dolphin and Whale Safari's on our hi-tech sailing catamarans year round, with its exclusive Eye-to-Eye Underwater viewing POD™. Daily trips to see dolphins, up to 5,000 strong, leap and play right off our bow, migrating Gray whales December through April and Blue Whales May through November. See them below, too, with our underwater video camera, hear them on our hydrophone. Celebrity and Certified naturalists make this exciting excursion educational and entertaining, too. Homemade triple-fudge brownies make this a one-of-a-kind adventure unforgettable. You can see a live feed from our boat, the first and only place in the world where you can view Whales and Dolphins Live right from your computer during our daily Dolphin & Whale Watching excursions at whalewatchingtv.com!

Captain Dave's Dolphin Safari offers you the opportunity to get close to and view the exquisite California dolphins and California whales, as well as California Sea Lions and other beautiful sea creatures. Southern California whale watching can be one of the most peaceful and exciting adventures of your lifetime. We leave from our ocean view 'Dolphin Deck', one of the prettiest spots in Dana Point Harbor and take you on a 2 1/2 to 3 hour ocean adventure. Dana Point harbor is just 12 minutes from downtown Laguna Beach. Captain Dave Anderson is an Award winning filmmaker and experienced Marine naturalist who has been leading dolphin trips and whale watching from Dana Point since 1995. He has also created and produced the award winning documentary "Wild Dolphins and the Whales of Southern California ". Call Captain Dave's to book your dolphin and whale safari and enjoy your awesome once-in-a- lifetime experience!

Private charters are also available for larger groups and can include our regular dolphin and whale watching excursions, as well as traditional and sunset sails, team building activities and massage/martini relaxation sails. Please call for details.

Visting Laguna Beach?

2011-06-09T19:32:00.000-07:00

Here are some highlights and things to do.

Whenever you decide to visit Laguna Beach, there are always several attractions and special events to be seen in and around town, ranging from art festivals to historical tours and wilderness parks to dolphin and whale watching. Your only challenge will be finding enough time to stay and see it all!

Among the highlights: The Laguna Playhouse, the oldest continually operating theater on the West Coast, provides regular entertainment in an intimate theater atmosphere and is a must-see for theater aficionados. Laguna Art Museum showcases unique exhibitions as well as the largest permanent collection of artworks by California artists and is one of the oldest museums in the state. The Pacific Marine Mammal Center, a rescue and rehabilitation center in Laguna Canyon, offers up-close and personal viewing of marine mammals by guests. After rehabilitation by volunteers, healthy animals are released back into their natural habitat. These are just a few of the exciting places waiting for you in Laguna Beach!

Laguna Culinary Arts Cooking Class: Farmers’ Market Weekend

2011-05-10T09:51:00.000-07:00

WHERE: Laguna Culinary Arts Cooking School
ADDRESS: 845 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
WHEN: May 28, 2011 - May 29, 2011
WEBSITE: www.lagunaculinaryarts.com/
PHONE: 949-494-0745
ADMISSION: $275 per person

Instructor: Linda Elbert

Spoil yourself with this unique weekend culinary adventure! This class is perfect for those who truly love food and love a gourmet food experience (and who aren’t afraid to experiment!)

The weekend will begin on Saturday morning with a trip to the local Farmer’s Market to select the best-looking produce that strikes our fancy. We’ll then plan the details of our menus and get busy! Whether its nut-crusted rack of lamb, pan-seared Alaskan halibut or a fresh fruit pastry, we’ll use the seasonal ingredients that you choose and apply a variety of techniques for the most delicious preparations, resulting in a light Saturday lunch, plus a 4-course dinner Saturday evening with wine pairings.

Sunday, we’ll come back for a sumptuous breakfast. The menus for all meals will depend on your preferences, and our whims based on the bounty at the market.

Pacific Edge Favorites

2011-04-30T10:54:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about the Pacific Edge hotel other than the fact that it is literally located on the beach is that it is perfectly situated in near proximity to everything. Including three of Laguna Beach’s best waves all within in walking destination of each other. Beginning with the world famous Brook’s Street beach which is host to world’s oldest longest running surfing contest. Thalia Street is literally a stone’s throw away from the hotel to the south and Rock Pile beach is a ten-minute walk just to the north.

I love surfing and then jumping in the Jacuzzi afterwards. Giving myself just enough time to get out and enjoy the sunset from the deck or from the balcony of my own room. A lot of times I will walk next door to the Beach House for dinner and a nice glass of red or walk down town where you can find some of Laguna Beach’s nicest restaurants and shop’s literally just steps away. As well as Laguna Beach’s only movie theater, yes life is good at the Pacific Edge hotel.

Enjoy your stay…

Laguna Playhouse Presents "Girls Night: The Musical"

2011-04-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

WHEN: May 17, 2011 - June 05, 2011
WHERE: The Laguna Playhouse - Laguna Beach
WEBSITE: www.lagunaplayhouse.com
ADDRESS: 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
PHONE: 949-497-2787
ADMISSION: $36-$70

Written by Louise Roche
Adaptation by Betsy Kelso
Directed by Jack Randle

A touching and hilarious 'tell-it-like-it-is' look at the lives of a group of female friends, Girls Night: The Musical, promises to have audiences around the country laughing, crying and dancing in the aisles! Follow five friends as they re-live their past, celebrate their present and look to the future on a wild and hilarious karaoke night out ... and you'll recognize every one of them! Carol who was born to party, blunt Anita who says it like it is, Liza and her 'issues', boring Kate the great designated driver and Sharon, the not-so-angelic angel who just couldn't resist tagging along! Girls Night is bursting with energy and is packed with hits "Lady Marmalade," "It's Raining Men," "Man, I Feel Like a Woman," "I Will Survive," "We Are Family" and many more! So grab the girls and get ready to party!

Love Wine? Here's a great deal for you!

2011-04-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

WHEN: April 01, 2011 - May 29, 2011
WHERE: Laguna Canyon Winery - Half Case Special
TIMES: 11:00am-6:00pm
WEBSITE: www.lagunacanyonwinery.com
MORE INFO: (949)715-9463
ADDRESS: 2133 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

'08 Award Winner Napa Valley Chardonnay- 2009 OC Fair Medal Winner - Finely balanced, with hints of crisp apple and pear, along with complements of citrus and vanilla.Regular bottle price - $25.00 Half case special price - $20.00 per bottle; $120.00 plus tax

'07 Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon A distinctive Cabernet with notes of plum, currant, and black cherry. A hint of spice and cedar give this friendly wine the right touch of complexity. Regular bottle price - $25.00 Half case special price - $20.00 per bottle; $120.00 plus tax

The Laguna Beach Experience

2011-03-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

If summer is the main course meal here in Laguna Beach then we can assume that spring is the ultimate appetizer.

Seemingly just a walk through, a warm up of the beautiful weather that lay's ahead of us in the summer month's.

However there is one distinct difference. Especially after a winter of long period rains.

The beauty of the sprawling green hills above that surround Laguna and off in the distance you can even see snow covered mountain's.
To me, spring is the ultimate season to spend time here in Laguna because you get the best of all the season's combined in one.
That with the combination of the new day light's saving's beginning and what many consider the best sunset's of the year it just keep's getting better.

And were not even done yet in why spring is so great to us in Laguna, so I'll leave you with one last great detail for all to enjoy.
You don't have to hassle with all of the hustle and bustle of the summer crowds in and out of the restaurant's and more.

Enjoy your stay...

Making a Difference - Sayulita, Mexico

2011-03-17T13:43:00.000-07:00

I had a great time in Sayulita, Mexico this past week being the honorary ambassador of the 2nd annual Punta Sayulita longboard and SUP Classic. An event that raised money for the Costa Verde International School.It is extremely important to me; as a person lucky enough to grow up on the beach and live is dream of one day becoming a professional surfer. That we continue to empower the youth of tomorrow, not only to go after living their own dream's but also in preserving our beach's and ocean's for them.
In my life aside from having good parents, it was my love for the beach and the ocean that alway's kept me from making the wrong decision's in life.

Thank you all for being apart of this dream...

Sincerely,
James Pribram
The ECO-Warrior

Photo's by Matty Tomas

Laguna Beach – Athlete of the Year!

2011-03-04T09:22:00.000-08:00

On Feb. 5 I was honored by the Patriots Day committee as Laguna Beach’s “Athlete of the Year.” I’ve won a lot of trophies and awards before but none more meaningful to me then this one. It sits right there proudly on the mantlepiece above my fireplace and no matter how many great places in the world I have been lucky enough to experience, there will never be another place more special to me than Laguna Beach.

Just as there will never be another place I would rather be in the world on a beautiful day like today than Pearl Street beach. The very beach I was raised on. My whole being, vision and spirit were shaped on that beach by those before me. There was a long list of past surfers, including my brother, who inspired me to surf and then one day become a professional.

Today I dedicate my life to preserving our beaches and oceans. It wasn’t something that happened overnight. In fact it just happened over time, much like anything else through hard work, desire and dedication. My work perhaps isn’t traditional as some may like but that’s not my issue. I do what I do because I believe in it and I want to do it.

I work with a personal trainer twice a week as he puts me through a series of circuits that leave me nearly hurling at the end and I work out on my own another three or four days a week. It’s work. Writing a column is work. I write a different one for each of my sponsors. Being involved with marketing meetings with sponsors is also work, as is maintaining three websites, or finishing a book that you have been working on for five years.
You might be asking yourself what has inspired me to write about all this? Perhaps it’s because in 2011 there is still this perception that surfing is more of a beach bum sport than an actually a sport. I would bet that any professional surfer would have a much easier time adapting to any other sport than another professional athlete trying the sport of surfing. I will put my money on that any time, any place.

The beach is nothing short of a natural playground for all to enjoy and that is why I work—yes ”work”—extremely hard at preserving them for the next generations. So they can dream the same dream that I had of one day being a professional surfer, a sport that in fact kept me away from drugs and other adolescent mistakes. So thank you Patriots Day committee for such an honor and I will do my very best to honor in the best way that I can by leading by example.

Peace.

Unmasking the Eco Warrior By Jake Howard

2011-02-25T09:09:00.000-08:00

By Jake Howard, ESPN

For James Pribram, it's time to take the water you're surfing in a lot more serious.

Writing a check to the Surfrider Foundation and putting a "member" sticker on your car is one thing. Noble as it may be, risking life and limb to protect and save our oceans and beaches takes a bit more commitment. Meet Laguna Beach's James Pribram, aka "the Eco Warrior." From legalizing surfing in the Windy City to protesting Chilean pulp mills to paddling through BP's muck in the Gulf, Pribram takes pride in putting himself on the front lines of some of surfing's more serious environmental disasters. ESPN Surfing caught up with him recently to get a little more background on the man known as the Eco Warrior.

Politically, morally or otherwise, what is your stance on the environment?
People need to get realistic about cleaning up the environment and our individual roles. I am trying to demonstrate that each of us can be Eco Warriors if we decide to make a difference in our own backyards. In addition to local Laguna Beach projects, I travel the world to help shine a spotlight on local challenges that folks are fighting in their own backyards. We can't just keep pissing in our playgrounds. For some kids the ocean is their only path to a normal and healthy life when they don't have the resources to be involved in after school programs and or sporting programs.

James Pribram CollectionOn scene during the BP spill in the Gulf

What do you do for a living?
I travel around the world as a professional waterman/spokesperson bringing awareness to environmental threats such as ocean pollution, over development, and in the case of the Windy City, I helped the locals get surfing legalized. It's important that we keep a good balance in finding better solutions and compromise in these problems that plauge our oceans and beaches.

Where did the passion come from?
My passion comes from growing up on the beach in Laguna and having my older brother John teaching me how to surf at age six, from that moment on surfing has always been the one constant in my life. Then sadly enough, I was teaching a surfing lesson in Aug. of 1997 and contacted MRSA [a strain of Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that can cause serious infection when entering the body through a cut, sore, or body passage] from the polluted water at Dohney. That was really the tipping point for the person the media likes to call the "Eco Warrior." The doctors that day said had I not come into the emergency room that I would have likely died within eight hours. That was a huge wake-up call for me on a personal level. Because of it I now I dedicate my life to giving back to the our beaches and oceans.

When did you officially become "the Eco Warrior" -- and does that come with a costume or any superhuman talents?
The Eco Warrior project was started as a collaboration between Op and the Surfer's Path magazine. I was hand picked to travel around the world to report and write feature stories about environmental threats around the world. I was already heavily involved in environmentalism as a spokesperson and a participant. It wasn't until a photograph of me walking in the south of Chile participating in a protest march for the Rio Itata holding a white cross with thousands of Chileans marching behind me that Surfer magazine's Scott Bass dubbed me the "Eco Warrior." The moniker stuck and people really started to take notice of what I was doing. The only costume I wear is my heart on my sleeve. I'm just one of tens of thousands who care about our environment, beaches and oceans. In all honesty I really don't like being called the "Eco Warrior," but if it helps my cause, which it does, then so be it. I can live with that burden.

James Pribram Collection - When not off saving the world's oceans you may find Pribram shredding at home in Laguna.

Can you talk about causes you've dedicated yourself to in recent years?
Well, my first trip as part of the Eco Warrior project was back in the south of Chile and the march for the Rio Itata River. There was a pulp mill there pumping chlorinated water into the river. Another heavy one was in Taiji, Japan, where they kill thousands of small whales each year. It was featured in the documentary movie "The Cove," not many people know that I was involved and one of the first surfers to paddle out into the notorious "Killing Cove." That was by far the scariest environmental action I have been involved in. Getting surfing legalized in Chicago was a great victory for the locals there who really did all of the heavy lifting. The Gulf of Mexico fiasco last summer was just mind numbing and sad, just wtnessing the destruction of the coast. The recent South Atlantic voyage was a strong and personal lesson in life itself. I went through a lot on that voyage. Lost and gained a new perspective on life and people. Truly sad to see floating plastic debris out in the middle of the ocean amongst the most stunningly beautiful colored cobalt blue ocean. Hard to imagine, but it's true, not to mention all of the confetti pieces and other plastic litter scattered just below the oceans surface.

James Pribram CollectionSaving the surf in sweet home Chicago.

Chicago, you legalized surfing in the Windy City?
I really just helped the likes of Jack Flynn, who was actually arrested for surfing there and spent the night in jail. Along with Todd Haugh, Mike Killion, Vince Deur amongst a host of others. It was really baffling to me that in this day and age in the United States of America that something like surfing was illegal. But is so goes to show you when you show respect to the other side more often than not they are willing to listen and listen they did. The City of Chicago along with the city parks district were instrumental in getting the ban lifted and truly great to work with. That was a great for everyone both sides included and that's what it all about it. In finding better solutions and compromise in today's growing world.

And your Gulf response, what your experience?
It was truly heart breaking visiting 'Grand Isle' which should be renamed 'Grand Oil' with all of the oil boom that ran horizontally along the beach for as for as one could see. The oil wells that littered the ocean in every direction you looked. The smell of oil that was just choking the breath out of you. It was like the twilight zone but sadly it was reality for so many who lost their jobs and a way of life. Heart breaking for everyone and our environment as well.

How has all that changed you? Are you more motivated because of what you've seen?
It's a lonely life sometimes, and I've grown a lot as a person. I've been called names, threatened, questioned, but it has made me a stronger person with a clear vision of the person I am today. I lost a lot of friends growing up; to drugs, prison, death, but surfing was always been my savior, and perhaps more importantly, the beach itself. It has always been the one constant path in my life. It has taught me about life, love, desire, dedication and respect. I owe my life to it, not to say I'm willing to give it, but I have thought about it and that's a scary feeling. I'm not sure I could be anymore motivated?

James Pribram Collection - keeping the beach clean one piece of trash at a time

Most recently you sailed across the Atlantic in search of a trash island, how'd that come about and what exactly were you doing?
We sailed from Brazil to South Africa to document the South Atlantic Gyre which had never been seen before by the human eye. For ten days I was waiting for this huge plastic trash island and until I finally asked when we would see it and to my bafflement I was told it didn't exist. I felt embarrassed but that's why you have to go out and investigate these claims to make sure there real or not or as bad as claimed? In this case it was worse. Because of the small confetti sized pieces of plastic that are scattered below the oceans surface for miles in the middle of the ocean it makes a clean up almost impossible? Where as if were a big trash island perhaps one could find away of scooping up all of the trash?

What was the goal or objective?
To be the first to witness it firsthand, document it and bring back all of the samples from the trawls that were set out to study. Perhaps through this course of action we can find a solution, one way is stop using everyday plastic thro- away's like water bottles.

You mentioned you almost fell off the boat while in the middle of the ocean, where is that line for you, how far are you willing to push your eco battle?
I'm not sure? I would never say that I am willing to give my life, but I think I have certainly put myself in circumstances where something awful could have happened. I think I have demonstrated that I am willing to go pretty far for the cause.

Lessons learned from all of this?
That's there always two sides to a coin. You have to show respect to both sides and not get emotionally caught up in these environmental battles. Stay calm, level headed and keep exploring better solutions and compromise it's pretty much just the same as I try to live my life.

Pageant Of The Masters 2011

2011-02-17T15:13:00.000-08:00

WHEN: July 7 2011 - August 31, 2011

WHERE: Irvine Bowl
WEBSITE: http://www.pageantofthemasters.org/
TICKETS: http://tickets.lagunabeach.com/

July 7th thru August 31st - Irvine Bowl - Laguna Beach Get ready to believe in the art of the impossible! In its uniquely theatrical celebration of tableaux vivants – "living pictures" – the 2011 Pageant of the Masters is venturing into magical artistic realms. Only Make Believe will be your passport to explore worlds populated by ancient and modern superheroes and strange, mythical creatures. It will also showcase the creative expressions of artists who devoted themselves to conjuring everything from Victorian historical fantasies, illustrations for fairytales beginning "once up on a time," to futuristic visions of things to come, all in a breathtaking performance of "art that lives and breathes." There'll be no shortage of fun and fantasy for the whole family as Only Make Believe leaves ordinary life behind to reveal the wonders of artistic imaginations unleashed.

South Coast Plaza Announces 11 New Stores for 2011

2011-02-10T15:03:00.000-08:00

Luxury shopping center South Coast Plaza has announced the first grouping of its 2011 retail lineup, which includes 11 new additions to the center. Nine of the additions are new stores; two are major remodels.

South Coast Plaza is known for launching new brand concepts and exclusives. Several of the new stores for 2011 are either Southern California exclusives or Orange County exclusives. This year’s assortment continues to round out the retail portfolio at the internationally known shopping center.

“This is just the beginning of a very exciting year of welcoming sought-after brands and concepts to our incredible family of retailers,” said Debra Gunn Downing, Executive Director of Marketing at South Coast Plaza. “Our continually evolving collection is what continues to keep the shopping center vibrant and our customers excited and in search of newness.”

New stores for 2011 include:

• Brunello Cucinelli — Men’s and women’s high-end cashmere brand with a cult following, known for producing some of the most coveted cashmere sportswear (Orange County Exclusive)

• Diane von Furstenberg — Colorful, contemporary women’s fashion from the designer known for creating the beloved wrap dress (Orange County Exclusive)

• Lego — The retail outpost for the adored classic toy building bricks

• Longchamp — Luxury tote bags, luggage and accessories from this Parisian-based, classic leather goods house have become a staple for women everywhere (Southern California Exclusive)

• Lululemon Athletica — Yoga-inspired athletic wear that has become as fashionable to wear out of the gym as in the studio

• Madewell — J Crew’s edgier concept with a coveted denim line, T-shirts, footwear, accessories and more (Orange County Exclusive)

• Omega — The luxury, Swiss watch manufacturer with a reputation for enduring quality (Orange County Exclusive)

• Soma Intimacy — Women’s intimates and apparel store loved for flattering styles and in-store bra-fitting services

• Microsoft — The official store of the tech giant brings to life everything from its software to hardware such as Xbox and Xbox with Kinect, PCs, tablets and more.
Remodels for 2011 include:

• Origins — The bath, body and skincare brand will launch a flagship store with its new concept at the center

• Tod’s — The luxury leather goods brand will add the ready-to-wear collection and offer its children’s line

In 2010, South Coast Plaza opened nine new stores and two restaurants, including Prada, Assouline, Herve Leger, Tous, Intimacy, Free People, Teavana, Catimini, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Seasons 52 and The Capital Grille. Among the eight major remodels at the shopping center were Dior, which debuted its first fine jewelry salon in the U.S., Anne Fontaine and Banana Republic, which opened its first new concept store in California.

South Coast Plaza is the crown jewel of shopping on the West Coast, and is recognized internationally for its unparalleled collection of over 250 boutiques, award-winning restaurants, spas and the adjacent world-renowned Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Its stellar cast of diverse retailers — from Oscar de la Renta, Balenciaga, Hermès and Harry Winston to Tory Burch, Barneys CO-OP, J. Crew, H&M and more — makes it Southern California's premier shopping experience. South Coast Plaza is located in Orange County, California, in the city of Costa Mesa. For more information, visit www.southcoastplaza.com or telephone (800) 782-8888.

Laguna Beach Certified Farmers Market

2011-02-08T15:29:00.000-08:00

WHEN: Saturday February 12th, 19th & 26th, 2011
WHERE: Downtown Laguna Beach
WEBSITE: http://orange.cfbf.com/cfm.htm
MORE INFO: (714)573.0374

Lumberyard Parking Lot next to the City Hall in Laguna Beach. The Laguna Beach Certified Farmers Market is the real thing - a place where genuine farmers sell fruits, nuts and vegetables directly to the public. Every farmer who sells at a certified market is inspected by the county agricultural commissioner to make sure he/she actually grows the commodity being sold. The Laguna Beach certified California farmers market is open for business every Saturday from 8:00am - 12:00 pm (rain or shine).

Natalie Cole Concert

2011-02-05T15:23:00.000-08:00

WHEN: February 10, 11 & 12, 2011
WHERE: Orange County Performing Arts Center - Costa Mesa
WEBSITE: http://tickets.lagunabeach.com
MORE INFO: (949) 715-9713

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, an “Unforgettable” concert featuring the incredible Natalie Cole, backed by a full symphony orchestra. Warm, tender and heartfelt, her singing preserves the treasured standards made famous by her father, while adding her own touches of jazz, swing, soul and pop.

Surfing Soapbox: We all need access to the ocean

2011-02-02T09:58:00.000-08:00

Awakening to clear, calm and breathless blue skies this morning, I once again had the same enthusiasm as a 15-year-old boy who grew up on the beach. I just couldn't wait until it was warm enough to hit the waves. Twenty-five years later I'm happy to say it really is no different of a feeling for me.The beach will forever be my world, my church, my everything; it has always been the one constant path in my life. My mom likes to call me Peter Pan sometimes and that's OK, maybe I am a big kid. It doesn't really matter to me because the beach has always had a deeper meaning and I have always believed that I have a deeper connection to it.

And I know, just as I believe this to be true. There are many others who feel the same about days like this, who just can't wait to hit the beach, no matter what they have planned. I have always believed that our beaches are another extension of playgrounds for everyone to enjoy, young and old.

It's an escape that is healthy and more often than not in a direction away from drugs and violence. A great alternative for those kids who don't have access to after-school programs or organized sports. We can't keep taking away the playgrounds of the world.

We have to find better alternatives and solutions for these problems that are plaguing our beaches. Rather than just continuing to put more and more restrictions on things like fishing, which in turn only take more and more freedoms away from those who need it the most. We need to care for our beaches and oceans. Stop the littering and pollution.

The time is now that we start cleaning up our own lives on land, because if we don't do that first then everything else is for naught.

Peace. James Pribram.

Laguna Beach Music Festival

2011-02-01T13:56:00.000-08:00

WHEN: February 7, 2011 - February 13, 2011
WHERE: Laguna Beach - Varies
WEBSITE: http://lagunabeachmusicfestival.com/
MORE INFO: (949) 715-9713

Laguna Beach Music Festival is a week-long event at various venues in scenic Laguna Beach, California, presented by Laguna Beach Live! and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County. Dedicated to artistic excellence and innovation, each Festival stars prominent and promising musicians in a variety of activities to attract both the casual listener and the aficionado, who share space in the Festival’s intimate, human-scale venues. A highlight of each Festival is the unique occasion for gifted young musicians to study with the Mentor in residency, while the public has the rare opportunity to observe these stars of tomorrow as they hone their technique and expression. Guest artistic director for the 2011 Festival is Brooklyn Rider. As the resident string quartet of Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Ensemble, Brooklyn Rider has gained prominence in classical chamber music as well as other musical worlds often remote from chamber music.

Sea Dragon Journals - Entry #4

2011-01-27T15:04:00.000-08:00

Coming on this journey was equal in two parts. The first being the desire to learn and continue to give back to our environment and the second was that of a personal journey, as in having an opportunity of true reflection in understanding of how my life has unfolded.

Never would I have imagined the opportunity to sail from Brazil to South Africa but more importantly learn more about this new phenomenon known as the 5 Gyres, which some refer to as “plastic trash islands the size of Texas.”

Sadly, there is no such thing. Standing on top of the bow this morning, in every direction that I looked, was a cobalt blue ocean, so stunning in beauty that it is difficult to imagine how much plastic debris is out here floating by. Even out here, in the middle of this vast ocean. Some 2,000 miles out to sea between Brazil and South Africa, I have witnessed first hand what an impact we have as humans on our oceans, with our continued everyday usage of plastics and how that plastic is broken down over time, into tiny particles that are being digested by fish and sprinkled across our oceans surface and gathered in the trawls that we set out. It is yet unknown whether not plastic is ever broken down into nothingness?

What is so scary and mind-boggling is the misconception that these garbage patch islands of trash actually exist. If only they did, because then we might actually have a chance of cleaning them up. Sadly, it is far worse. As each trawl we set out thinly slices through the ocean’s surface, we witness just how profound this problem truly is. With each trawl comes tiny little broken down pieces of plastic trash. Think for a minute just how spread-out these plastic fragments must be.

How does one clean up such a needle in a haystack that is naked to the human eye? Perhaps looking for better alternatives to using plastic and cutting down our everyday use would be a good start. Replacing water bottles with eco-usable bottles is something we can all accommodate in our everyday lives without so much as missing a beat.

In observing, learning and gaining more insight into how exactly our everyday life impacts our future generations here on earth. It is time we take a closer look at our footprint in seeking better solutions that continue to plague our everyday lives and our environment before it’s too late.

Just as I have had an opportunity to take a closer look at my life everyday on this sailboat while looking out at the sea like a life canvas. It has enabled me take a closer look at how I can make small everyday changes in my life by finding better alternatives than using plastic water bottles. A small change in my life that will have a much greater impact on our oceans and our environment, sometimes in life is the small everyday changes that we make matter the most and have the greatest impact.

First Thursdays Art Walk - Laguna Beach Village

2011-01-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

WHEN: Febuary 3, 2011 - March 3, 2011 - April 7, 2011
WHERE: Laguna Art Museum
WEBSITE: http://www.firstthursdaysartwalk.com/
MORE INFO: info@firstthursdaysartwalk.com or (949) 683-6871

Join Member Galleries throughout Laguna Beach on the First Thursday of EVERY month from 6:00 - 9:00 pm, for a festive cultural evening. Please use the free shuttle service provided by the City of Laguna Beach. The shuttle travels to participating gallery locations starting at 6:15 p.m. from the Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cliff Dr. (corner PCH and Cliff Dr.) and Bluebird Center (1590 S. Coast Highway). Our dedicated shuttles run until 8:45 p.m.

Sea Dragon Journals - Entry #3

2011-01-18T09:56:00.000-08:00

As our days are long and our nights, more often than not are even longer.
In a way, I feel sort of imprisoned.
Wondering what is happening amongst the world outside?
Longing to reach out.
With a long list of questions.
How’s my family?
Is the weather nice?
The surf good?
Andy Irons?
Any games of VB being played?
Are my Lakes still undefeated?
Miami, Boston?
World happenings?
Getting an e-mail out here in the middle of the sea is a bigger than you can imagine.
So please if you find a moment please feel free to reply back.
I hope my e-mail to you finds you well and happy.
All the best,
James

Part 1.
Rumblings from the big ugly sea.

From more than a thousand plus miles out to sea somewhere between Brazil and South Africa.
It’s been raining for a week straight with 30+ MPH winds and 8-10 foot seas.
Last night while on watch, we were taking in a trawl (a trawl is a big metal device with a big net attached to the end of it and used to collect the plastic trash).
In the stormiest night of our trip, I almost went over the railing while pulling a trawl in.
As I slid across the deck under the dark sky, the relentless rain and amongst a sea of waves splashing over us.
With my two hands glued to the line and pulling with all my weight, which is down considerably, do to a lack of food.
I quickly dropped my left hand from the line and grabbed the wire railing as I crashed into it.
Almost flipping over and coming face to face with the twisting and churning battered Ocean.
My left foot yet again being smashed which is already minus one toenail.
Luckily I was clipped in had I not been able to hold myself up.
Just the thought of it leaves one feeling pretty darn small in comparison.
Because falling over board out here is like falling of the face of the earth.
Strange because my heart never skipped a beat.

Part 2.
Sailing isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be.

I’ve been on a lot of trips and this one, by far is the most challenging of all.
Cramped quarters with a crew of 13 aboard a 72-foot sailboat.
With sleeping quarters stacked on top of each other literally an arm’s reach away.
Capturing a good night’s sleep can be challenging at best.
Not only is it raining outside but inside now as well.
Balmy and hot.
Damp and continued rain for day’s.
Getting comfortable and clean.
Is a distant memory?
My patience is wearing thin.
Nothing like sharing a steam room with 12 others.
Using a toilet in conditions like this is no easy task.
Often clogging and the ever result of pumping your own stuff down,
Is something we never have to think of at home?
The kitchen is a constant mess.
Plates and cups staking up.
Bodies litter the gully down below.
Nothing takes less than 15 minutes at a time.
Whether it’s getting something to eat or just showering.
Is there any end in sight?
With the constant twisting and turning.
As the Sea Dragon makes it’s way through the stormy seas.
Hopefully tonight I won’t fall out of my bed.

Part 3.
The great wide open.

Testing the human spirit is important.
Through it we have a better understanding of just who we are.
How lucky we are to have the lives we have at home.
I can sit on deck of the Sea Dragon for hours on end, which I do daily.
Rain or shine.
My life displayed out there across the sea as if it were a canvas.
My vision becoming more and more clear with each passing minute.
You soon realize how much we take for granted.
Through this journey.
I have once again learned how to appreciate the good, small and everyday moments in life.
The stillness,
Quietness.
Clarity and focus.
The movement of the water.
The crashing of waves.
Crumbling forward like avalanches of white water.
Watching the flying fish take flight.
The taste of a fresh mango.
The wonder of a sunrise and the beauty of the sunset.
Counting shooting stars.
There’s a greater reason to why I am here, on this journey.
I’m not sure exactly what it is yet but I know soon, that I will.
Something in the way of an experience that I can bring home and share with all of you.
One day soon all of this will make sense.
In the meantime I will continue to grow and reflect.
Work on my patience.
My being, and what it is that I want to accomplish.
I can feel the person within evolving.
Life is short.
So you better live it.
And living it I am.
The simple life that is…

Sea Dragon Journals - Entry #2

2011-01-10T14:59:00.000-08:00

At 3:30 AM on a cold, wet, windy and dark morning, it is easy to ask yourself what you are doing on a 72-foot sailboat. I’m sailing from Brazil to South Africa, while standing watch on deck. While everyone is asleep below inside the warmth of the sailboat. I find myself wide-awake, pondering not only, why I am here? I soon realize that I can see my entire life out there washing around amongst the sea’s choppy waves, only fueling my desire to be here.

To my surprise I am not bothered by the cold or the constant splashing of the waves that continue to hit me in the face. Despite wearing several layers of clothing, the wind blowing right through me is nothing more than a breath of fresh air. My watch, which started a 2:00 AM and will finish with a sunset at 6:00 AM.

Strangely enough the most obvious reasons that would make one ask such a question, in hours of such adverse conditions, do in no way bother me. To the contrary, what baffles my mind is that in a period of 5 minutes, 1,000 miles out to sea between Brazil and South Africa, we watched sadly as three huge pieces of plastic trash floated past us. Amongst the last frontier of pristine water, that is a striking color of cobalt blue, with one lone bird following our boat.

Sadly plastic is now more evident with each mile that we sail. The reach of man’s plastic pollution stretches farther than one can imagine and we are still some 500 miles or more, from reaching the beginning stages of the 5th Gyre, known as the South Atlantic Gyre.

This gyre has never been seen before with the naked eye. It’s a strange feeling of anticipation to see what waits when we do hit our mark entering into the territory of the 5th Gyre. I would use the word excitement, but how can I when writing about the pollution that plagues our beloved oceans.

My mind reels just thinking about it, wondering out loud. What will I see? How bad will it be? Is the 5th Gyre, really a floating island of plastic trash?

I have a number of questions that will remain unanswered. Luckily the most important one will not- I am here, because I care. Enduring the hardships of a 28-day sail as are the other 12-crew members aboard and hopefully; if you’re reading this right now you care as well.

-Peace-
James

MAESTRO (The Art of Leonard Bernstein) - Laguna Play House

2011-01-06T12:12:00.000-08:00

WHEN: January 4, 2011 - Febraury 6, 2011
WHERE: The Laguna Playhouse - Laguna Beach
MORE INFO: http://www.lagunaplayhouse.com/onstage/2011/maestro/

Hershey Felder in MAESTRO: The Art of Leonard Bernstein, is a new work from the creators of George Gershwin Alone, Monsieur Chopin and Beethoven, As I Knew Him. With a story spanning the entire twentieth century, Leonard Bernstein, America’s greatest musician, broke through every artistic ceiling possible to become the world’s musical ambassador. Conductor, composer, pianist, author, teacher, librettist, television star... for Leonard Bernstein boundaries simply did not exist. Join us on this fascinating journey as Hershey Felder brings the composer of West Side Story, Candide, Mass and more to life.

Music & Lyrics by Leonard Bernstein
Book by Hershey Felder
Directed by Joel Zwick

Sea Dragon Journals - Entry #1

2010-12-28T14:55:00.000-08:00

Some 290 miles out to sea between Brazil and South Africa, it is almost impossible to try and think about what lies ahead of me for the next month. Just getting to Brazil was a trip in itself. Three flights, 15 hours of transit and one long crazy two-hour car ride, we (Mary Osborne and I) finally made it.

Unfortunately wires got crossed and there was no one waiting to pick us up once we had arrived at the airport. Luckily we jumped a cab and settled into a hotel in Copa Cabana. Before taking yet another two hour cab ride to a beautiful crystal green colored bay where the 72-foot Sea Dragon sat anchored, just outside of the harbor.

The Sea Dragon Crew

For the first four days we just cruised around the local islands. One day we found some fun waves to surf where the water was so clear you could see one’s surfboard through the wave.

Now we are down to business and on a course set towards South Africa. We will be trawling along the way for the effects of plastic pollution that plague our oceans today, before coming face to face with the never-before-seen South Atlantic Gyre.

Yesterday was a long day for me as I was on watch up on the deck from 12:00-6:00 PM and then again from 2:00-6:00 AM as somewhat stormy windy and wet conditions came in. So far the majority of the 13-person crew has gotten sick except for about four or five us. The main sail has now ripped and it’s only our second full day at sea. On this unique expedition to find the South Atlantic Gyre, I would be remiss to say it should be interesting, but for now I’m going back to sleep.

-Peace-

James Pribram

Eco Warrior Joins the Sea Dragon

2010-12-28T14:28:00.000-08:00

I was recently selected to experience a once in a lifetime adventure and new educational experience pertaining to the environment aboard the Sea Dragon. The Sea Dragon is a sleek 72 foot Steel Hull boat sailing around the world to study the 5 Gyres (a sea current where garbage/debris accumulates) and the effects they have on our ecosystems.

I will be joining a elite crew of scientists, writers and film makers to study the South Atlantic Gyre and the effects of plastic in our oceans. We depart for Rio, Brazil this Tuesday, Nov. 3 for a 28 day crossing and land in Cape Town, South Africa tentatively Dec. 11 (if all goes smoothly). Predicted by ocean models but never verified, this trip will take an important first look into this part of the world’s oceans. It’s going to be a journey of a lifetime…

There will be no emailing and very little to no communication from me while away. For those who are interested in following our scientific adventure you can find GPS where the boat is presently.

Find more about 5 Gyres organization and how to get involved.

Read about daily ship blogs and what we are up to.

There is also great way for kids, students, schools and universities to get involved and ask questions directly to the people aboard the Sea Dragon. Over 1500 schools have joined in so please pass along to anyone who is interested and get signed up. I would love to hear from all of you while we are at sea…
For more information visit interaction at sea.

Special thanks to my sponsors O’Neill, Boost Mobile, Pacific Edge Hotel and XS Energy drinks for donating some funding to this great organization. If anyone you know or a company wants to get involved, every little bit helps.

I want to personally thank you all for your ongoing support.
Like I’ve always said, you only get one life. So you better live and live it I do…

See you when I return home! Happy Holidays!

Cheers,
Jamo

E. Roscoe Shrader - Laguna Art Museum

2010-12-28T14:15:00.001-08:00

E. Roscoe Shrader Exhibit

WHEN: Through Janury 23, 2011
WHERE: Laguna Art Museum
WEBSITE: www.lagunaartmuseum.org

Laguna Art Museum, Main Gallery, 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, CA / A dynamic and influential teacher and leader in the arts for three decades, E. Roscoe Shrader produced colorful, post-impressionistic paintings-landscapes, figures, and still lifes-that when exhibited elicited praise from critics and patrons alike. Shrader was influential as a teacher and head of the faculty at Otis Art Institute from 1919 to 1949. He was also president of the California Art Club for several terms during the 1920s and 30s. His devotion to his teaching and to his leadership role in the arts community precluded his attention to actively commercializing his art. Many of his paintings were often given to friends or remained with his family. As a result, Shrader’s work has heretofore been largely unknown. Fortunately, his heirs have made the works available through noted art dealer George Stern, who has produced the book The Art and Life of Edwin Roscoe Shrader which will be available for purchase in the Museum Store during the exhibition at Laguna Art Museum. More information: 949.494.8971.

Festival of Arts "Poster" Exhibit

2010-12-28T14:14:00.000-08:00

WHEN: Through Janury 11, 2011
WHERE: Downtown Laguna Beach Wells Fargo
MORE INFO: (949)464-4282

A retrospective of Festival of Arts annual posters from the past 25 years is now on display at the downtown Laguna Beach Wells Fargo through January 11, 2011. Over the years many images for posters have been produced for the purpose of highlighting the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters. The posters' subject matter expresses various styles, classical, traditional and contemporary. The poster exhibit portrays not only the history of the Festival of Arts, but also that of Laguna Beach. The exhibit is on the third floor of the Wells Fargo building at 260 Ocean Avenue, Laguna Beach. The Sawdust Festival has an exhibit on the main floor of the building, while Community Art Project (CAP) has an exhibit on the second level. The building is open to the public Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information call 949-464-4282.

Peter Pan - OC Performing Arts Center

2010-12-28T14:09:00.000-08:00

Peter Pan

WHEN: Through 1/2/11
WHERE: Orange County Performing Arts Center
WEBSITE: Click here for tickets

Direct from the U.S Premiere in San Francisco, Peter Pan is a spectacular new stage production of J.M. Barrie’s classic story performed in a state-of-the-art 1350-seat theatre pavilion. Conceived by an award-winning creative team and featuring twenty-two actors, stunning puppets, epic music, and dazzling flying sequences surrounded by breathtaking video, Peter Pan was a smash hit when it launched in London in 2009. The world's first 360-degree video projection for live theater flies both cast and audience over Edwardian London. Generally, this show is not recommended for children under age five. Running time (approximate): 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Daddy Long Legs - Laguna Play House

2010-12-28T13:57:00.000-08:00

Daddy Long Legs

WHERE: Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
WHEN: November 30 – December 26, 2010
WEBSITE: www.lagunaplayhouse.com

A musical by Tony and Olivier Award- Winner John Caird (Nicholas Nickleby, Les Miserables) and Tony nominee Paul Gordon (Jane Eyre). Set in the early 1900s, this exquisitely moving story is the vivid account of a young orphan girl as she blossoms into a beautiful, intelligent and vivacious woman. A trustee of the John Grier Orphanage offers a proper education to the 18-year-old Jerusha. The benefactor’s only requirements are that Jerusha never know his identity, and that she write him monthly (though he will not respond). She sees him once in shadows and invents a nickname for her mysterious patron–Daddy Long Legs. Her letters to him paint a moving portrait of her lonely life in the orphanage, and the development of her mind and spirit. Call (949) 497-ARTS (2787).

Meet James Pribram (our surf and eco ambassador for the hotel)

2010-12-28T13:46:00.000-08:00

Having our unique ocean front location is not just a nice amenity for our guests but a responsibility to our ocean environment as well. Along with the benefits of our 300 feet of beachfront there are responsibilities to keep it clean, maintain access for all and involve ourselves in the overall oversight of protecting our amazing ocean environment. We recently formed an amazing relationship with Laguna Beach local and surfing icon James Pribram.

A bit more about James (Jamo for those who call him a friend, as we do!):

JAMES PRIBRAM is a Laguna Beach native, professional surfer and John Kelly Environmental Award winner. His written work has appeared in the LA Times, Surfer's Path, Surfing, Surfer, Water and numerous other publications worldwide. He is an active environmental leader in his community where he has served on the Laguna Beach Water Quality and Environmental Committees. He co-founded the Eco Warrior project, a grass roots organization which is dedicated to protecting oceans, beaches and sea life worldwide, and They Will Surf Again, which raises money for people who have suffered from ocean-related spinal injuries. He is the owner and operator of Aloha School of Surfing, which teaches aspiring surfers of all ages the power of surf stoke. Pribram's Surfing Soapbox column appears weekly in Laguna Beach's Coastline Pilot, Huntington Beach Independent and Daily Pilot Newspapers which has a readership of over 100,000. In 2009 James was also selected by Riviera magazine as one the countries top ten 'Men of Style'.

Major environmental awards:
The John Kelly Environmental Achievement Award
The Orange County Heart and Soul Award
The Project Save Our Surf Hope Award
Laguna Beach environmental achievement Award
The MSA Blue Award
The My Hero Environmental Achievement Award
Better Shelter Green Award

www.ECOWarriorSurf.com
www.AlohaSchoolofSurfing.com

James just returned from an amazing 6 week journey to confirm (and he did) the existence of 5 Gyres (a sea current where garbage/debris accumulates) and the effects they have on our ecosystems. He joined an elite crew of scientists, writers and film makers to study the South Atlantic Gyre and the effects of plastic in our oceans.

Please take some time and check out his blog entries and photos of this amazing and telling journey. Stay tuned for more blog entires from James as he engages our hotel in some fun beach and ocean experiences throughout the year!

Happy Holidays,
Kurt Bjorkman
General Manager