Community Needs

FUEL's Take on the LBUSD

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Thu, 14 May 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Shaheen Sheik-Sadhal and Newth Morris from FUEL (Families Unified for Education in Laguna) talk to Ed about the recent departure of highly-respected school superintendent Dr. Jason Glass, and the school district's dysfunction.

Spa Del Rio's Next Chapter

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 13 May 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Lesli shares the exciting news about the opening of Spa Del Rio’s new location and talks about the heart behind what they do.

R.I.P Ken Frank

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Mon, 04 May 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Ken Frank served as City Manager of Laguna Beach for 31 years, from September 1979 until his retirement in December 2010. His tenure is one of the longest in Orange County history. He is widely credited with Open Space Preservation, spearheading the acquisition of over 3,000 acres of open space in Laguna Canyon, investing over $40 million to protect the city's greenbelt; and Fiscal Management, establishing a "Revenue Smoothing Fund" to keep the city solvent during economic downturns and managed major recovery efforts following the 1993 firestorm, in which his own home was destroyed, and several landslides.

Waterwise Challenge 2026

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Laguna Beach is on track to win the Waterwise Challenge for a 10th time! Ed and Chris also talk about the upcoming Gate & Garden Tour, which will award one of the gardens the waterwise garden award. And they chat about other water conservation efforts underway.

Arbor Day 2026

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:00:00 +0000

On the heels of the highly-controversial removal of several trees within the Promenade project on Forest Avenue, City Arborist Matthew Barker answers the questions many people have asked, and, talks about the City's upcoming Arbor Day celebration.

Lucid Strategies

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Ed and Lena discuss effective marketing strategies, the importance of a clear goal, and visions for companies of all sizes. Lena explains what a real fractional CMO+CSO partnership looks like. If you’re a founder or CEO who’s tired of generic agencies and templated decks, this one’s for you. Learn more: www.lucid-strategy.com

Congrats to Detective Zach Martinez on his retirement

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:45:00 +0000

Laguna Beach Police Detective Zach Martinez has retired after 30+ years of incredible service. Ed honors him for the example he personified every day for the community.

ClubSport's Red Light Offerings

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000

The conversation covers the amazing science behind red light therapy, how it works, and the benefits, and how you can access these benefits with ClubSport's Red Light Bed and ProPanel by LightStim.

Love Letters

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 19:00:00 +0000

February 13-15 Laguna Dance offers performances that speak from the heart; an unforgettable weekend where movement becomes a message, and every step tells a story. LOVE LETTERS includes 3 breathtaking shows, bringing together world-renowned dancers, and choreographers for a powerful and dynamic experience. And to kick it off, go behind the curtain on February 12 for an exclusive onstage rehearsal experience with the company’s artistic director and dancers.

Feb 13 @ 7:00 PM: Dayton Contemporary Dance Company

Feb 14 @ 7:00 PM: Heart 2 Heart: An Evening of Duets

Feb 15 @ 3:00 PM: Sunday Funday: The Best of So Cal Dance!

Laguna Beach Free America Walkout

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 20:00:00 +0000

On January 20, we call on our communities to organize teams, call your neighbors and classmates, and turn your back and walk out on fascism. Host mutual aid planning meetings, organize public service, but walk out to block the normal routines of power, and make the stakes real. This is a protest and a promise. In the face of fascism, we will be ungovernable. ★ We walk away from fascism. ★ ★ We walk towards a Free America. ★ ★ We fight for a future that belongs to us all. ★ ★ Everybody in, nobody out. ★ ★ Welcome to the Free America Walkout ★ Close your business, leave your school, tell your boss “nah…NOT TODAY…” because today is a great day to say this is NOT OKAY.

ClubSport's newest offerings

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

ClubSport Aliso Viejo is the premier Orange County gym, fitness, sport, and health club that offers everything from group fitness classes, pickleball, spa services, to Kids World, and continues to add to its amenities. Chris and Bradley chat about some of the newest offerings, including Red Light Therapy by LightStim.

Chad Cooper

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 20:00:00 +0000

That Laguna Beach flag you see displayed everywhere…and was even proudly displayed at a recent multi-city signing ceremony? Not the official City flag. Ed talks to the creator of that flag, Chad Cooper, and his thoughts on the City’s (in)action back in 2013 when he first presented it, and again at last week’s City Council meeting. They also chat about his craft in woodworking and carpentry.

Our City Flag

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 15:30:00 +0000

A decade ago, Chad Cooper learned that the City does not have an official City flag (there was apparently a flag competition in 1977 for the City's 50th anniversary, when the winner was apparently unveiled, and then the County lost the City's flag, and nothing was done). So, Chad did his research, designed one, and presented it to the City Council. No action was taken to adopt it, so instead, Chad's flag be came community's flag. When the current Mayor learned that the City does not have an official City flag, the issue came before the City Council this past Tuesday. Ed opines on what the Council did (and didn't do).

The Sandwich Generation

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:00:00 +0000

Connecting the Digital Dots: Online Habits and Safety Concerns Across Three Generations, a new survey from Cox Mobile, shows that 86% of the "Sandwich Generation" (those in their late 30s to 50s juggling teenagers and aging parents) say managing online safety for teens and aging parents adds stress to their lives. Jodi talks about her own experiences, actively caregiving for her elderly mother who has breast cancer, working a full-time executive role, and raising two teenagers, and how she balances all of these parts of her life and avoids caregiver burnout.

Michael Minutoli and Brian Wilson

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Voice of Laguna has been honoring the memory of The Beach Boys co-founder, Brian Wilson, this week, and our very own Laguna Beach Greeter Michael Minutoli sat down with Ed in studio to share his personal story.

Cirque du Soleil ECHO

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 28 May 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Under the Big Top at the Laguna Hills Mall, Cirque du Soleil brings a story of connection, intention, and the bond between humans and the animal kingdom.

Mark Christy on The Promenade

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 14 May 2025 20:00:00 +0000

There’s a lot of opinions about the City’s plans to make the promenade on Forest Avenue permanent…local small business owner Mark Christy steps in studio to explain why he supports the project, and he talks about bringing the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center to fill the former Laguna Drug space.

What Forest Avenue was versus What it Now is

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 14 May 2025 14:30:00 +0000

Before Covid, Forest Avenue was a point of congestion, with vehicles backed up on Coast Highway while people jockeyed for a parking spot close to the beach. If you happened to be shopping or trying to enjoy a meal, you got to enjoy exhaust and honking. When Covid hit, the Laguna Beach City Council transformed lower Forest Avenue into a pedestrian plaza with outdoor dining decks. Now, the City is moving through the process to make the promenade permanent...but with all change, there's a group that's vehemently opposed.

The Petition against the Forest Avenue Promenade

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Fri, 09 May 2025 14:30:00 +0000

Have you been approached to sign a petition, or received an email, or seen it posted on social media? It's from a group hoping to stop the City's plans to make the pedestrian plaza on Forest Avenue permanent. Ed gives his take on the petition.

The Community Pool

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Newth talks to Ed about the current issues with the pool at the Laguna Beach High School and the proposal recently approved by the School District.

Arbor Day Celebration

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 19:00:00 +0000

The City's March event was cancelled due to rain, so instead is having its Arbor Day celebration on Thursday, April 24, which coincides with the National Arbor Day on April 25. Matthew describes all the fun and informative events planned this year, at the Aliso Beach park.

Pediatrician Roia Katebian

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Dr. Katebian answers Ed's questions about the science of vaccine timing, challenges in diagnosing and treating a variety of illnesses in children, including the resurgence of diseases such as measles, and questions mothers of newborns may have.

What is FUEL?

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 17:30:00 +0000

Newth explains why FUEL was created and why he became involved.

Piatti Laguna Beach

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Designed as a welcoming neighborhood trattoria where locals and visitors alike can gather to relax and enjoy delicious Italian coastal cuisine, such as Piatti's signature housemade pasta, Nadine and Phillip talk about how excited they are to be part of the Laguna Beach community, and share some of the ways they are honoring the heritage of the building.

9 to 5: The Musical

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 19:00:00 +0000

“9 to 5” is a timeless piece that raises awareness about the realities of women’s experiences with misogyny and their fight against oppression to have their voices heard. Using the theater’s role as a form of social commentary, “9 to 5” highlights how far society has come in the last 30 years, how much work is still needed, and what women are fighting to protect. LBHS Theatre invites the public to watch these three young actors shine on stage alongside a talented cast and crew performing “9 to 5” on March 7-9 and 14-16, Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Purchase tickets here (before they're gone!).

The Promenade on Forest

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:30:00 +0000

On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, the Laguna Beach City Council and Planning Commission will review the latest concept plan to make the Promenade on Forest permanent. Chef Pirozzi has been an advocate of the promenade for years, and talks about his involvement from the first concept parklet 10 yeara ago.

A Special Birthday Tribute

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 16:00:00 +0000

20 years of love and true partnership described as only music can...a most heartfelt birthday gift.

“Out of the Cage” Book Signing at BRASA Gallery

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 19:00:00 +0000

A pioneer in primate communication, Dr. Shapiro’s new book "Out of the Cage: My Half Century Journey from Curiosity to Concern for Indonesia’s 'Persons of the Forest'" is hitting the shelves.

Pure Imagination: Dreams to Reality Arts Festival

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 19:30:00 +0000

Brett Fonfa Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to expanding the education and accessibility of the arts by providing opportunities and resources to artists of all ages. Proceeds from the upcoming festival help support the Foundation's school programs and scholarships.

2024 Chamber of Commerce/Laguna Board of Realtors City Council Candidate Forum

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 01:00:00 +0000

As an expert in politics and debates, Ed ensured candidates answered questions and did not simply repeat campaign statements, because nothing is more important than being an informed voter.

Unconditional Rescue

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Through their rescue organization, Unconditional, the Macks champion the cause of senior and special needs dogs. Their annual fundraiser, Chef Master, on Sunday, September 22 at 5pm, at the Festival of Arts, helps Unconditional continue to meet their mission. Get your tickets here!

30-Minute Hit Aliso Viejo

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 19:00:00 +0000

Damita, new owner of 30-Minute Hit Aliso Viejo, is hosting a Grand Reopening on Friday, September 20, and shares how this veteran-owned and woman-owned business' kickboxing circuit, created for women, provides a full body workout that is effective for weight loss, strength building, stress relief, and cardiovascular health.

Behind the Dance

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Ever wonder how a dance comes to life? Laguna Dance Festival Director and Choreographer Jodie Gates steps into the Artist Corner to talk about the upcoming “Behind the Dance,” an interactive opportunity to make a dance in real time with real dancers! Get your tickets now! It's one night only! September 26, 2024, at 6:30pm at The Forum Theater.

Lagunatics 2024: Laughing Matters

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Do you have your tickets to Lagunatics yet? As usual, expect a roast of all things Laguna - from 4th of July drone shows to lack of parking and everything in between. And of course there will be goats! 🐐 Get your tickets here, before they're sold out!

James M. Cox Foundation

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 20:30:00 +0000

James M. Cox Foundation is named after the company’s founder, Thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Foundation, the Success Center, which is a technology center at Orange County Rescue Mission’s Double R Ranch, officially opened this week. DRR is a working horse ranch in Silverado Canyon serving men experiencing homelessness. The Success Center will power telehealth, workforce development, skills training, and ongoing education for DRR residents. Colleen also explains with students going back to school, and the end of ACP, there is a greater need for affordable home internet programs to bridge the digital divide, and Cox’s Connect2Compete offers qualified K-12 households $9.95 home internet.

Visit Laguna Beach and Surf & Sand partnering

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 18:30:00 +0000

Visit Laguna Beach addresses some of the concerns raised by residents about the impacts by tourists, assuring that its Leave No Trace program remains an active effort, now with additional assistance by the Surf & Sand. They also explained the ways they have been working to attract tourists that are planning to visit the City, to the City's local businesses, and how funds are used to directly help the City's arts organizations.

Laguna Beach's July 4th Drone Show

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 04:00:00 +0000

This is how Laguna's first drone show was created to be enjoyed.

Fireworks vs Drones

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:30:00 +0000

The Laguna Beach City Council decided to try out using drones for this year's Fourth of July celebration instead of fireworks, and that decision has, ironically, set off "fireworks" within the community. Ed weighs in.

Two Cats, a Mermaid and the Disappearing Moon

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:30:00 +0000

Pamela will provide a special, exclusive reading of Two Cats, a Mermaid and the Disappearing Moon for Storytime Saturday at 11am this Saturday, April 27, at the Laguna Art Museum, where attendees can follow alongside the story’s inquisitive feline main characters as they try to solve the mystery of the disappearing moon with the beautiful local Laguna Beach landscape as the backdrop.

Walking for Water

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 22:00:00 +0000

The Walking for Water annual fundraising event is this Sunday, and the students leading the event step in studio to explain why everyone should come out, have fun, and support the cause.

Rich German

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 19:00:00 +0000

Local entrepreneur and environmental advocate Rich German sits down to chat with Ed about how we can all make a positive impact on our planet, such as participating in Saturday's beach cleanup.

Todd Rogers

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Cal Poly's Head Coach, Olympic Gold Medalist Todd Rogers, chats with Ed about Saturday's Best of the West NCAA volleyball tournament.

Introducing "Beyond the Beach"

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 18:30:00 +0000

Visit Laguna Beach is launching a new series of interviews spotlighting things to enjoy in Laguna Beach "Beyond the Beach." The first set of interviews will spotlight several don't-miss restaurants. To introduce the launch, they interview our very own Ed live on air.

Laguna Beach's New City Manager

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 14:30:00 +0000

On Tuesday, the Laguna Beach City Council will officially appoint Dave Kiff as Laguna Beach's City Manager. Kiff, a former Laguna Beach resident with his partner Tom Lochner, previously served as City Manager for Newport Beach.

Best in the West

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Three NCAA teams compete in the 2nd Annual Laguna Beach Best in the West Volleyball Tournament on Saturday, April 6, at Main Beach, in Duel format play across three courts.

A Shayna Maidel

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 21:00:00 +0000

A Shayna Maidel (which means “a pretty girl” in Yiddish) is a touching memory play about two sisters reconnecting after years of separation and a hopeful story about the resiliency of the human spirit. Artistic Director David Ellenstein shares his thoughts on his third time directing the play.

Award Season

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 18:30:00 +0000

Hard work does get recognized! Rachel shares the sweep of awards Visit Laguna Beach recently received, and the recognition The Ranch received.

Visit Laguna Beach's Website Relaunch

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 19:30:00 +0000

Visit Laguna Beach's new website has just launched, and Emma steps in studio to chat about its feel and focus.

The Laguna Experience

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 19:30:00 +0000

Now that The Radical Origins docuseries is done, Visit Laguna Beach is focusing on other projects that elevate the Laguna Beach experience, from their newly published guide to the upcoming launch of their new website.

Honarkar v Continuum Analytics and v Orgill

morningswithed@gmail.com (Ed Steinfeld) — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:30:00 +0000

This conversation not only addressed current legal matters that have been the subject of local discussion, but also explosive never before revealed allegations against sitting Councilmember Mark Orgill.