Dianne Russell

Associate Editor and Writer at Stu News Laguna

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Articles

Laguna Life and People 052725

1 week ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

Skip to content Chance Gaul’s life reflects the power of community – and Brooks Street By DIANNE RUSSELL Photos by Mary Hurlbut “There’s something magical about this building,” Chance Gaul said of his multigenerational family compound just up from Brooks Street beach. “It was built in the 1930s and then added onto in the ‘70s. It’s one of the many buildings here in Laguna that has a rich history.” His life and history – if you can say a 28-year-old has history – have involved a bit of magic...
Relocation of SHACC brings the world’s premier 051325

3 weeks ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

Skip to content Relocation of SHACC brings the world’s premier Surf Heritage Museum to Laguna Beach By DIANNE RUSSELL Photos by Mary Hurlbut In a staggering collaboration of Laguna legends, SHACC Board Members Mark Christy, Jeff Alter, Greg MacGillivray, Paul Naude and Dick Metz, along with fellow board members Patti Paniccia, Randy Hild, Laguna’s Dan McInerny and Royce Cansler have brought a dream to fruition by securing the former Downtown Laguna Beach location of Laguna Drugs at 239...
Laguna Life and People 050625

1 month ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

Milena Dujakovich brings Wild Strawberry Café to Laguna BeachBy DIANNE RUSSELLPhotos by Mary HurlbutMilena Dujakovich, owner of Wild Strawberry Café, wants to dispel the idea that her establishment is merely another of Laguna’s coffee shops. Once you enter the inviting space and peek at the menu, it’s obvious it’s so much more.
Laguna Life and People 042225

1 month ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

Skip to content Kayleigh Thomas scores a first for Laguna Beach High School By DIANNE RUSSELL Photos by Mary Hurlbut Kayleigh Thomas has a lot to celebrate – she’s soon to become a Warner University Royal. Thomas is the first girl in the history of Laguna Beach High School to receive a scholarship for girls flag football. In the fall, she’ll be moving across country to Florida (where she was born) to go to Warner University, which is highly ranked nationally in girls flag football. Thomas had...
Laguna Life and People 040825

2 months ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

Skip to content Fine Art Photographer Taylor O’Sullivan beckons us to slow down and reconnect with nature By DIANNE RUSSELL Photos by Mary Hurlbut Taylor O’Sullivan is crazy about photography – and mushrooms – and she’s been able to combine the two in a stunning way. Although the fantastic fungi aren’t always her subjects, she has an affinity for them – one that’s rooted in her love of nature. Her photographs capture the exquisite details of her subjects, whether it be the frilly underside of...
Laguna Life and People 040125

2 months ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

Skip to content Jay Grant is still moving forward after 55 years in Laguna By DIANNE RUSSELL Photos by Mary Hurlbut “Being a pastor doesn’t mean you’re secluded in a spiritual life and in an office all the time,” said Jay Grant, a pastor at Laguna Beach Net-Works. At 82 years of age, Grant says he’s still moving forward – and doing all the things he loves. During the last five and a half decades, Grant has occupied many roles – journalist, author, Little League coach, manager, board member...
Glass artist John Barber leaves a rich artistic legacy 032825

2 months ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

Skip to content Glass artist John Barber leaves a rich artistic legacy By DIANNE RUSSELL Photos by Mary Hurlbut Laguna Beach (and the world of art) just lost another legend – a term often used in a casual way. However, in the case of John Barber, calling him a “legend” could be considered a vast understatement. When one thinks of glass art, the name John Barber comes to mind. He was revered by all who knew him, both as an extraordinary artist – and man. In 2017, he was recognized as the...
Laguna Life and People 032525

2 months ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

Skip to content Artist Jorg Dubin debuts new sculpture Tempest at the redesigned Surf & Sand Resort By DIANNE RUSSELL Photos by Mary Hurlbut Laguna artist Jorg Dubin is no stranger to the realm of public art – he has designed and fabricated more than 10 public art works. Perhaps Dubin is most widely known for his September 11th memorial Semper Memento (Always Remember) at Monument Point, but he also designed Aliso at The Ranch, Trio in Heisler Park, Viking Studio and the 60-foot Mercury...
Laguna Life and People 031825

2 months ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

Skip to content David Vanderveen – entrepreneur and adventurer extraordinaire By DIANNE RUSSELL Photos by Mary Hurlbut If one imagines life’s endeavors as crossroads or paths taken – or not taken – precisely at the junction of entrepreneur and adventure, you’ll find David Vanderveen. That intersection is where the passion ignites, fueling both his career and lifestyle. Add into that mix a massive dose of ethics and values, and life tends to be full of pivots and disruptions, although he...
The Museum of Make Believe 031125

2 months ago | stunewslaguna.com | Dianne Russell

The Museum of Make Believe – a world of pure imaginationBy DIANNE RUSSELLThrough an amazing collaboration, The Museum of Make Believe founders husband and wife team Geoff and Amy Mitchell – along with Kelsey Irvin (of Kelsey Michaels Gallery) – have created a magical place that makes you wish you were 8 years old again. However, contrary to what one might think – The Museum of Make Believe is for all ages – adults are equally enchanted as they enter this immersive dream-like world.