Saturday's preview provided the invitation-only crowd an opportunity to enjoy works by familiar names and to be introduced to some new artists — 17, in fact.
Newcomers include Russell Jacques, Christopher Jeffries, Stephen Lazarus, Janet C. Lewis, Elizabeth McGhee, Paul Bond, Steve Covern, Gar Cropser, Jason Down, John Eagle, Cynthia Fletcher, Marie-Pierre Philippe-Lohezic, Adrian Sandstrom, Danny Von der Ahe, Elizabeth Wallace, Patrick Whelan, Wendy Wirth and Gary Zuercher.
The preview also afforded the guests the first shot at the artworks donated by exhibitors to raise money for the Artists Benefit Fund.
Among the donors of the 100 originals of "Art-to-Go:" Bradford Salamon, Julita Jones, Hedy Buzan, Mark Jacobucci, Jacquie Moffett, Chris Bliss, Anne England, Roger Folk, Molly Hutchins and Tom Beres, who isn't even exhibiting this year.
For more art activities planned throughout the summer, visit website http://www.LagunaFestivalofArts.org. For general information, call (949) 494-1145.
25 Years and Still Counting
I am never at my best when deeply touched. I was at my absolute worst Tuesday night at the City Council meeting when I was surprised with a presentation of a proclamation recognizing my 25 years covering Laguna Beach.
When Mayor Elizabeth Pearson called me up to the front the dais, the brain turned to mush and my vocal cords constricted — probably a good thing because heaven only knows what might have come out of my mouth.
What I wish I had said was a heartfelt thank you for the deeply appreciated recognition of work done by a reporter working for a community newspaper.
The proclamation referred to reporting about disasters, politics and community events. That's what community reporters like Claudia Koerner, Rita Johnson, Stu Saffer and hardworking editors like the Coastline Pilot's Cindy Frazier do — and all the community reporters who will come after me. I salute them.
