Alexis Kubicki
“The Grapes for Grads scholarship I received helped my family tremendously in these hard financial times. My mom was brought to tears when I told her the news. Thank you so much for making my education a more attainable opportunity.” ~Alexis Kubicki~

Bryant Santamaria
As a continuing student my goals are to be the best that I can be, in the world of the arts. Success to me is an essential part of making those goals happen, and in order for me to achieve greatness, I must first have an education. Through the means of this scholarship, I have managed to continue my journey as a fellow student who is eager to learn and profess future outcomes. ~Bryant Santamaria~

Paulina Michel
Grapes for Grads scholarship has allowed me to reach goals that would not have been possible without their support. I see that the community believes in artists and our ability to make a change. This empowers me to strive for even larger goals. Thank you, ~Paulina Michel~

Sigmundur B. Thorgeirsson
“I would like to express my gratitude for your financial support through Grapes for Grads. By being an international student, I must travel from a long distance to receive my education at LCAD. By awarding me the scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden which allows me to focus more on the most important aspect of school, learning. Thank you.” Sincerely, ~Sigmundur B. Thorgeirsson~

Ava Eastman
I am studying chemical engineering at the University of Colorado, Boulder. I am a newly initiated sister of the Delta Gamma sorority here at CU Boulder. I am also a member of the engineering leadership program, green Greeks, and Verve Hip Hop Crew. In Green Greeks, I am the representative for delta gamma, and we help come up with energy saving solutions throughout the Greek community on campus. As a dancer in the verve hip hop crew, we participate in various performances and host a huge competition annually with famous crews from all over the country! I am very busy at CU Boulder, but I could not be happier! I am so appreciative for the scholarship that Grapes for Grads generously gave me. Without the help from Grapes for Grads and my other scholarships, I would not be able to attend the school of my dreams. Thank You! ~Ava Eastman~

Dylan Bush
It is my extreme honor to update al of those involved in Grapes for Grads about my recent accomplishments. I certainly have not forgotten the ability that Grapes for Grads has afforded me to reach my goals and dreams. I hope that the following paragraph provides you with a suitable summary and please forward any further questions to me. Once again, please convey my gratitude to all of those involved in Grapes for Grads! Since I received my Grapes for Grads scholarship, I have had nothing but enthusiasm in pursuing my dreams at Berkeley. I spent the summer on a rural ranch in Mexico learning about a lifestyle and a culture that has been fundamental in my own upbringing. This experience afforded me a new perspective on what it means to be truly happy. One thing that I noted in Mexico was the enthusiasm with which each and every person approached a new day. Despite the daily struggles, despite the level of poverty, every man, woman, and child woke up with a smile and carried out the day’s work with a positive attitude. This is something that I strive to do at Berkeley and that I hope to do one day in the operating room. At Berkeley, I am majoring in history but I am on the “pre-med track.” I am currently taking classes in chemistry, near eastern studies, and mathematics and I am taking my second semester of Hindi. Many students have asked why I am taking Hindi and it entails a rather lengthy explanation that can be summarized with two main reasons. In regards to my history major, Hindi will allow me to specialize in British Colonization of India. I plan to write my senior thesis on the 1947 Partition and my Hindi will allow me to study original documents. Furthermore, in regards to my dream to become a transplant surgeon, I have seen huge advancements in patient care in India. I am hoping that my Hindi will allow me to correspond with rural Indian doctors in order to track advancements in rudimentary medical procedures and emulate those advancements in other struggling countries. Aside from my Hindi studies, my premed courses comprise the vast majority of my workload. Last semester, I was fortunate enough to be accepted to the Biology Scholars Program at Berkeley, which strives to provide help in the sciences to minority students and first generation college students. BSP has provided me with not only tutoring in the sciences, but also with a community of similarly driven students who have faced obstacles in the past. I am maintaining a GPA of 3.7 and I hope to improve my GPA over the current semester. The funds that were generously trusted to me by Grapes for Grads can be seen as an investment that will allow me to pursue my dreams and use my skills to help others. I will never forget how Grapes for Grads changed my life in allowing me to study at a world-class university without overbearing financial worries. Included in this photograph is myself and my grandmother Grace Gold, a resident of Laguna Beach for 34 years and a woman who taught me what it means to be proud of my roots. -Sincerely and thankfully, Dylan M. Bush

Emilay Bader
Currently, I am a first year studying Chemical Engineering at University of California, Davis. I have to admit that college classes took my by surprise at there difficulty and the fast pace of the quarter system. However, thanks to Laguna Beach High School’s outstanding teaching staff, I was able to adapt rather quickly. In the middle of my first quarter, I applied for a job at the UC Davis Coffee House and got employed. I absolutely love my job. Although it is just a standard cashier job, it is with 250 other students, and meeting a variety of students is wonderful. The UC Coffee House is the largest student run restaurant in the nation and I am thrilled to be a part of it. On top of a job and being a full time student, I joined a sorority that focuses on Make-a-Wish foundation and St. Jude. In 2013, Delta Delta Delta granted a wish for Make-a-Wish foundation, and raised over 25,000 dollars for St. Jude. In the past week, the national chapter reached its pledge of 15 million dollars in 5 years, in just 3.5 years. I am proud to be part of a chapter that holds philanthropy in such high standards. College has been a wonderful experience so far and I am fortunate to be involved in such a diverse campus, with the numerous opportunities at my fingertips. Thank-you for the scholarship, it has made a huge impact with my financial needs! ~Emily Bader~

Grace Clark
Thanks so much for the Grapes for Grad Scholarship! During my first semester at UC Berkeley, I got involved in many different things. I joined the sorority Pi Phi, I became the Men’s Lacrosse team manager, and helped with or attended many different fundraisers for charity throughout the Greek community. On top of all of these fun activities, I explored both Berkeley and San Francisco. While I sometimes wish it was all fun and games up here at school, of course I have classes too. I intend to major in cognitive science and minor in computer science (it is amazing how college classes can completely change your idea of what you want to major in or pursue as a career!). Cognitive science and computer science pair very nicely, especially in fields such as artificial intelligence, which I am eager to explore more. I have loved my time so far at Cal and cannot wait for my next three and a half years! ~Grace Clark~

Maggie Renner
My name is Maggie Renner I am currently a freshman marketing major at Loyola Marymount University with an expected graduation date of May 2017. Without my scholarship from Grapes for Grads I would not have gotten to attend this amazing university that has already given me so many incredible opportunities. Not only has the Rotary Club eased the burden of paying high tuition costs, but it has also taught me the importance of giving back. Here at LMU, I am an Alpha Phi and our sorority places heavy emphasis on developing leadership skills along with stressing the importance of philanthropy. Every February our chapter hosts the annual charity event that raises money and awareness for the Heart to Heart Cardiac Care. This spring is going to be a very important semester for me. First, I plan on beginning an internship here in LA. Second, I will participate and organize a team for Relay for Life here on campus. Last, I would just like to thank the Rotary Club for my Grapes for Grads scholarship that has enabled me to follow my dreams. ~Maggie Renner~

Andrew Landsiedel – December 2013
The Rotary Club of Laguna Beach honored Andrew Landsiedel as Student of the Month for December during the club’s regular luncheon meeting at Hotel Laguna last Friday. Andrew was accompanied by his Foreign Language Department instructor Sr. Ortiz, who described his accomplishments in honors and advance placement Spanish classes in all four years at Laguna Beach High School. Among his many awards: Boys’ State, National Merit Commendation, AP Scholar with Distinction and Superintendent’s Award for Academic Excellence. He plans to attend the University of Chicago to study economics and apply his language skills to a career in developmental economy, advising third world countries on economic policy. Andrew was honored with a certificate of recognition at the meeting and will receive a scholarship at the Honors Convocation at the end of the school year.

Eliott Glass – March 2013
The Rotary Club of Laguna Beach recently honored Elliott Glass as the Laguna Beach High School’s Student of the Month for March. He was accompanied by his Performing Arts Department instructor Mr. Chung. Elliott plays bass, cello, piano and drums. He is a member of the String Ensemble, Wind Ensemble and the Marching Band. He has received several awards at the Santa Barbara Jazz Festival for Rhythm and Jazz Ensemble Excellence. He plans to major in music in college. He was honored with a certificate of recognition and will receive a scholarship at the Honors Convocation at the end of this school year.

Lila Vera – November 2012
The Rotary Club of Laguna Beach honored Lila Vera as Student of the Month for October during the club’s regular luncheon meeting at Hotel Laguna last Friday. Lila was accompanied by her Math Department instructor Gary Shapiro, who described her accomplishments in advanced mathematics and athletics. Lila is an Orange Coast League Scholar-Athlete for swimming. Following graduation from Laguna Beach High, she will major in Applied Mathematics with a Biology concentration that focuses on human interactions and populations. Lila was honored with a certificate of recognition at the meeting and will receive a scholarship at the Honors Convocation at the end of the school year. ~Lila Vera~

“Laguna College of Art + Design has presented so many unique opportunities in the classroom and outside. I am honored to be selected to design the Grapes for Grads logo and represent the Graphic Design department as well as the school for this event. This spring I will graduate and designing the Grapes for Grads logo confirmed that I am ready to take on real life design jobs. I have so much more confidence in myself and my sense of design because of the strong and challenging curriculum and also the support and guidance from my teachers.”

“Dear Grapes for Grads,

Thank you for the scholarship I received in June 2011. I am currently studying biology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where I also aim to earn an English minor. After graduating, I hope to attend medical school and join Doctors Without Borders before working in a surgical field. The Grapes for Grads Scholarship helped me greatly in succeeding in college. From housing costs to costly books, the expenses of college often grow more burdensome than the schoolwork. The generous scholarship awarded to me, however, allows for me to focus my time on my studies rather than worrying about how I am going to pay for my studies. My gratitude motivates me not only to succeed academically, but also take advantage of all opportunities at UCSB. I am enrolled in the honors program and I participate in Chemistry Club and Outdoor Excursions Club. This week I am starting my first assignment for the school newspaper, The Daily Nexus. As I sit on the eighth floor of the library with my chemistry book and a beautiful view of campus, I cannot thank you enough for aiding in my academic pursuits.

Thank you!”
-Brigitte Naughton

As a full-time student with work on the side, I have enormous gratitude for Grapes for Grads. This scholarship alleviated a significant portion of the rising tuition costs, allowing me to buy much needed art supplies and spare my family the financial burden. The support from Laguna’s community helped me succeed during my senior year at Laguna College of Art and Design and progress on my journey to becoming a professional artist. I thank the generous donors who gifted me the opportunity to pursue a BFA in Illustration and Fine Art at a great college. I am honored to be included in a legacy of communal aid and enthusiasm for arts education that will be appreciated by students for years to come.”

-Stephanie Snee

“Grapes for Grads helped me with the cost of college during a period of economic hardship. The scholarship contributed to both tuition and living expenses, allowing me to fully focus on school during my last year at Laguna College of Art & Design. I would like to thank the Grapes for Grads Committee and the Rotary Club of Laguna Beach for their generous gift.
Thanks!”

– Brigitte Naughton

“I cannot thank you enough for the financial support you have given me to pursue my dreams. Your scholarship has eased my burden and allowed me to really put time into my artwork. The sad fact about college today is that costs are high and time is limited. Often I had to worry about working a part time job to make up most of my living expenses, but this scholarship coupled with a lucky internship opportunity has really alleviated my work stress. Now I have weekends! Incredible to think the difference a full day of open time can make in dealing with assignments. My grades have improved, I feel like I have grown as an artist, and I’ve been able to enjoy what southern California has to offer more. Thanks again, have a great day!”

– Dan Mulligan

My name is Christianne Kinder and I received the Grapes for Grads Scholarship award this past summer. I am currently enrolled in my second semester at Babson College, a top ranked entrepreneurial and business college with mandatory liberal arts, on the outskirts of Boston. First off, I have found my experiences living away from home extremely enriching. The environment here at Babson is comfortable, inspiring, and diverse. My first year is involved in a class called Foundations of Management and Entrepreneurship (FME). The class is split in half and is focused on students running their own businesses while holding leadership positions. My peers have elected me as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of our business.
In addition to classes, I have become involved in the Babson community. I was elected as Senator for First-Year Residence Hall Council, where I work as a Student Government Association representative whose roll is to unite Babson students. I am High Jumping on the Varsity Track & Field NCAA Division III team. I also joined the Babson College Volleyball Club and the Babson Players theater group. I have managed to accomplish all of these activities and achieve Honors my first semester. Babson College has invited me to join their Honors Program. The invitation is extended only during the beginning of spring semester to academically accomplished students, after they have proven themselves as a freshman or transfer student with less than 50 credits, and not upon admission or any other time. Acceptance into the program carries with it an opportunity of $3,000 per year, a two-semester Honors Project, a credit–bearing Honors International Program at either London School of Economics with an internship in a British company, or courses at Bocconi University in Milan, Italy involving European Union and multinational companies, and an opportunity to graduate with Honors. I am extremely thankful to have had the support of Grapes for Grads this school year!”

-Christianne Kinder

“I am studying hotel administration at Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration. With the help of the Grapes for Grads Scholarship, I have had the opportunity to pursue my passions in leadership, athletics, and academics at the school of my dreams.
I am a freshman this year and was recognized as a Meinig Family Cornell National Scholar. This program selects the top two percent of accepted applicants to Cornell who display outstanding leadership in their application. In addition, I have had the privilege to play a semester of Cornell varsity tennis as well as to join the Cornell varsity football team. Along with my ventures in leadership and athletics, I earned a 3.57 GPA during my first semester at Cornell.
I want to sincerely thank Grapes for Grads for assisting me in my journey.”

-Jake Michaels

“I’m really excited that my logo was chosen for this year’s Grapes for Grads event! It was a great experience designing the logo. I enjoyed working on this project because it is directly related to the career field I want to pursue – design.

I’m a student at Laguna College of Art and Design, almost ready to graduate. I chose to attend LCAD because of it’s strong community feel and I’m so glad that Grapes for Grads supports both the community and arts in Laguna Beach.

Thank you for the support in helping me achieve my art goals. The scholarship, from designing the logo, will aid in my tuition payments as well as give me exposure as a designer. I am so happy to be a part of the Grapes for Grads event! Thank you, to Grapes for Grads, the donors, and the Rotary Club of Laguna Beach, for this scholarship opportunity. I really appreciate it.”

Thank you so much,
Charlene Chand”

Laguna College of Art + Design (LCAD) sophomore Jordan Minardi was honored by the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Laguna Beach Rotary Club for his winning logo design to represent this year’s Grapes for Grads event. The award was presented during the Feb 19 Rotary luncheon held at Aliso Creek Inn. His design was selected from a pool of more than 25 entries, and he received a $500 award.

Grapes for Grads is a wine tasting and scholarship fundraiser that will be held at Tivoli Too on Sunday, May 2, 2010. Proceeds from the event will benefit students of LCAD and Laguna Beach High School. Event highlights include premier local and regional wine tasting, heavy hors d’œuvres, entertainment, live student painting demonstration and a silent auction. In its fifth year, the Chamber and Rotary created Grapes for Grads with the vision to support local youth in their academic and creative endeavors by providing scholarships to four Laguna Beach students. Organizers anticipate a sell-out event, which will raise money for scholarships.

Chamber and Rotary Award Scholarships to Laguna College Students

The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and Laguna Beach Rotary Club announced the recipients of scholarships to Laguna College of Art & Design students on June 18 during the Third Thursday Forest Avenue Promenade. Two $2,000 scholarships were presented to students who were selected based on criteria that included an essay submission, academic excellence and portfolio review. Jessica Hernandez will be a senior in the fall, and Enrique Escobedo will be a junior, both majoring in Fine Arts.
The scholarships were made possible by funds raised at the 4th Annual Grapes for Grads wine tasting event at Tivoli Too in April. The vision of the event was to focus on students who show a commitment to community service and excellence in academics, and to provide the resources necessary to afford them the very best education. The generous scholarships provide much appreciated assistance to deserving students of the college and bestow recognition to foster their creative development.
Event Chair Jeff Redeker remarked, “This year’s event was just incredible. Our community really came out to support higher education in art and academics. The Rotary Club of Laguna Beach and the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce successfully brought together businesses and philanthropic leaders to co-host the 4th Annual Grapes for Grads event. This year’s recipients from Laguna College of Art & Design, Jessica Hernandez and Enrique Escobedo, embody the commitment these two organizations have for the arts, community service and higher education. Congratulations to our 2009 winners.” Mr. Redeker serves as President of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Laguna Beach Rotary Club.

Jessie Hernandez, LCAD Graduate, Fine Arts Grapes for Grads Scholarship recipient 2009

The Grapes for Grads scholarship gave me tho opportunity to fulfill my life goal of completing a four year degree at the Laguna College of art and Design. I am expecting to graduate Spring 2010 and without this scholarship I may have not been able to continue my education. This scholarship gave me the opportunity to display my work to the city of Laguna Beach, and being a part of the event was a great experience. I am grateful to the Grapes for Grads committee for all their hard work towards providing financial aid to hard working students in need.
-Jessie Hernandez

“I was initially inspired by imagery of wine being poured from the bottle as it splashed into the glass and created a beautifully fluid organic shape that resembled a letter “G”. It seemed only right to embrace this visualization and apply it to my design in order to add a hint of naturalism to contribute to the graphic qualities of the design itself. I think the slight tilt of the glasses add to the sense of celebration and cheerfulness as they appear to be proposing a toast of congratulations and endearment to the lucky and deserving recipients of the Grapes for Grads Scholarship.”
– Mike Duncan

Chamber and Rotary Award Scholarships to Laguna College Students

Laguna Beach, CA – The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and Laguna Beach Rotary Club announced the recipients of scholarships to Laguna College of Art & Design students on June 3 at the monthly networking luncheon. Two $2,000 scholarships were presented to students who were selected based on criteria that included an essay submission, academic excellence and portfolio review by the scholarship selection committee. Shane Daley will be a senior in the fall majoring in Fine Arts & Sculpture, and Enrique Escobedo will be a sophomore majoring in Fine Arts.
The scholarships were made possible by funds raised at the Third Annual Grapes for Grads wine tasting event at Tivoli Too in April. The vision of the event was to focus on students who show a commitment to community service and excellence in academics, and to provide the resources necessary to afford them the very best education. The generous scholarships provide much appreciated assistance to deserving students of the college and provide the recognition to foster their creative development.
Event Chair Jeff Redeker remarked, “We have been very honored by our great city with the support of the Grapes for Grads scholarship event. The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Laguna Beach have continued their unwavering support of the arts and community service by co-hosting this event. This year we had several fine applications for our scholarships. Our winners, Shane Daley and Enrique Escobedo, embody the commitment to tradition and the arts that these two organizations have supported over a quarter century in our city. We are honored to have Shane and Enrique as our award recipients.” Mr. Redeker serves as President of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Laguna Beach Rotary Club.

Enrique Escobedo, LCAD Junior, Fine Arts Grapes for Grads Scholarship Recipient 2008 & 2009
Thanks to the “Grapes for Grads” scholarship I have been able to concentrate on my work instead of my finances. It has allowed me to be a much better student because of this. I am very appreciative of the peace of mind it has brought into my studies. Now I have more time and better equipment. There is no doubt in my mind that this award is contributing directly in giving this artist a clearer voice through a better education. Thank you so much for your support!

Caitlin Barretto, Laguna Beach High School Graduate Grapes for Grads 2008 Scholarship Recipient
I am currently in my second year of studies at the American University of Paris. I am a double major in Economics and International Finance with a minor in Mathematics; I plan to graduate in May 2011 (one year early) with both a BA and BS degree. This year, I have begun working in my university’s student media production group, which produces the academic journals of the university, the student newspaper, the student radio station, and the student video network. Although I began my work in this group as Treasurer, I have now adopted the role as Board Manager, in which I manage the group as a whole entity and oversee all production and publication works. Recently, I started interning at Chartis, formerly AIG Europe, as a Liabilities Underwriter. Because of the current economic situation, my internship in a newly transformed company has provided me with unbelievable knowledge and experience that will undoubtedly benefit me in the future. Attending an international university, I am given opportunities such as these to further my understanding of diverse cultures and also to ensure an open mind in the professional world. My international education would not be the same had I not travelled to various countries throughout my years in Europe, and this I accredit my scholarship from Grapes for Grads. The money I received from them allowed me to extend my learning outside of France to countries such as Germany, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. Without my scholarship from Grapes for Grads, I could not have experienced these amazing countries and appreciated the diverse perspectives they give to my education.
So for this, I thank you Grapes for Grads, for making my college education more fulfilling and enjoyable. Merci à tous!

Chamber and Rotary Award Scholarships to Laguna College Students

Laguna Beach, CA – The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and Laguna Beach Rotary Club announced the recipients of scholarships to Laguna College of Art & Design students on Wednesday, May 16 at the monthly networking mixer. Two $2,000 scholarships were presented to students who were selected based on criteria that included an essay submission, academic excellence and portfolio review by the scholarship selection committee. Sarah Crooks will be a senior in the fall majoring in Illustration/Graphic Design, and Jason Norton will be a junior majoring in Illustration/Animation.
The scholarships were made possible by funds raised at the April 29th Grapes for Grads wine tasting event that was attended by more than 400 people and featured over 20 local and regional wineries. The vision of the event was to focus on students who show a commitment to community service and excellence in academics, and to provide the resources necessary to afford them the very best education. The generous scholarships provide much appreciated assistance to deserving students of the college and provide the recognition to foster their creative development.
Event Chair Jeff Redeker remarked, “Today is a special day for our scholarship winners, Sara Crooks and Jason Norton. Both Sara and Jason embody the ideals that Laguna Beach has long cherished, which are art, educational excellence and community service. Grapes for Grads is about supporting those ideals and helping the future of Laguna Beach through assisting educational needs of our young adults who have a proven commitment to those ideals and our community. The entire Grapes for Grads committee congratulates Sara and Jason.” Mr. Redeker serves as President-Elect of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Laguna Beach Rotary Club.

Sarah Crooks – School: LCAD – Class of 2008

Q: What are you doing now?
A: “I’m the head Graphic Designer for Sunset, Inc. (Bikini Company) in Torrance.”

Q: Sounds like a big step. Does it leave time for you personally?
A: “Yes, I’m busy, I am now engaged to Noah Thomas, who I met when I was at LCAD.”

Q: Are you going to start a family right away?
A: “No, I’ll probably get another dog…we have three and they are my kids.”

Q: Wow, congratulations. Are you planning on staying with the graphic design career?
A: “For now yes, but I am looking to go to GIA in the fall.”

Q: GIA?
A: “Yes, it’s Gemology Institute of America. I would like to study jewelry design. Before I went to LCAD, I had my own small business making jewelry. I take classes at night at a junior college where I am learning metal smithing. Ideally, I’d like to have my own business making jewelry, painting and drawing.”

Q: Do you have any advice for students at LCAD?
A: “Yes, know computers and take your liberal arts classes seriously. Those classes are so helpful in the business world. I would also recommend getting involved in the community.”

Q: Did you spend a lot of time going after grants and scholarships?
A: Yes, I spent a lot of making sure anything I saw I applied for. I’d encourage everyone to do the same. You learn a lot…even when you don’t win the scholarship or grant.

Chamber and Rotary Award Scholarships to LBHS Students

Laguna Beach, CA – The Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and Laguna Beach Rotary Club announced the recipients of scholarships to Laguna Beach High School seniors, Marshall Thomas and Charlotte Bell, on Friday, June 1 at the monthly Rotary Luncheon held at the Hotel Laguna. Two $2,000 scholarships were presented to students who were selected based on criteria that included an essay submission, academic excellence and exemplary philanthropic service in the community.
Marshall Thomas, who will attend UCLA in the fall, stood out among his peers for spearheading the Surfrider Foundation’s water safety testing program at local beaches. On average, Thomas will dedicate up to sixteen hours per week to run the program. Most notably, he logged over 600 volunteer hours this academic year. Charlotte Bell is involved in charity work with organizations that include Laguna Presbyterian Church, Relay for Life, and assisting teachers at neighboring schools. In addition to her demanding schedule of academics at LBHS, Charlotte finds the time to contribute an average of 11 hours a week, totaling more than 400 hours this year. Charlotte will be attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in the fall.
The scholarships were made possible by funds raised at the April 29th Grapes for Grads wine tasting event at Tivoli Too that was attended by more than 400 people and featured over 20 local and regional wineries. The vision of the event was to focus on students who show a commitment to community service and excellence in academics, and to provide the resources necessary to afford them the very best education.
Event Co-Chair Jeff Redeker remarked, “The Laguna Beach Rotary and the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce are extremely proud to award these two very special young adults the high school Grapes for Grads service scholarships for 2007. They have truly made a difference in our community and embody the Rotary motto of Service Above Self. Both Marshall and Charlotte are tremendous assets to our community.” Mr. Redeker serves as President-Elect of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Laguna Beach Rotary Club.

Charlotte Bell
School: Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Major: City & Regional Planning
Graduated from LBHS: 2007
Year in College: Sophomore

Q: What was the biggest change from Laguna Beach?
A: “Being on my own and looking at my future”

Q: What advice do you have for LBHS Seniors that will be leaving town from school in the fall?
A: “Continue to do the things you like to do and take advantage of all the college resources that are available to you”

Q: When you were a senior at LBHS, what was your method of choosing scholarships?
A: “I looked for scholarships that matched my interest in Community Service and that is why the Grapes for Grads scholarship was one of the scholarships I pursued.”

Q: Are you involved in any clubs or organizations at Cal Poly?
A: “I am the President of the Sophomore Housing Advisory Council and I’m on an intramural softball team.”

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time when not attending classes?
A: “I like to take trips with friends up and down the coast. It’s very beautiful in the central coast and it’s fun to explore.”

Q: What do you miss most about Laguna Beach?
A: “Apart from my mom’s cooking, I miss the community and the people. I had allot of people who supported me from the Presbyterian Church to my teachers. Laguna Beach is a small community with great people.”

Marshall Thomas
School: UCLA
Major: Economics
Year: Sophomore

Q: Are you involved in any activities or organizations at UCLA?
A: “I’m a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity and I am also part of the Christian Science club. Also, this summer I’m doing a study abroad program with three other friends that will take me to London, Brussels, Amsterdam and Paris. I’ve very excited.”

Q: What is your biggest challenge at school?
A: “Without a doubt it’s time management. You really have to work at utilizing your time wisely to get the most out of the college experience.”

Q: Do you have any advice for LBHS seniors?
A: “Take advantage of your time in college because it goes so fast. I am just weeks away from being half way finished and it seemed to go by like a blur.”

Q: What scholarships did you target when you were a senior?
A: “Since I was so involved with Surfrider, I focused on environmental and community service scholarships, but I also won a technical scholarship.”

Q: What do you miss about Laguna?
A: “The beach. Laguna’s beaches are the best. Santa Monica and Malibu are no comparison.”

Chamber and Rotary Honor LCAD Student’s

Winning Logo DesignLaguna Beach, CA – Laguna College of Art & Design Junior Katie Corcran was honored by representatives of the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club on Wednesday for her winning logo design to represent this year’s Grapes for Grads event. Katie’s design was selected by event organizers from a pool of more than 50 entries, and received a $500 award.
Grapes for Grads is a wine tasting and scholarship fundraiser that will be held at Tivoli Too on Sunday, April 29. Proceeds from the event will benefit students of Laguna College of art & Design and Laguna Beach High School. Event highlights include premier local and regional wine tasting, live entertainment and a silent auction. The Chamber and Rotary created Grapes for Grads with the vision to support local youth in their academic and creative endeavors by providing scholarships to four Laguna Beach students. At last year’s event, $6,000 in scholarships was given out to four local students. This year, organizers anticipate a sell-out event to raise $8,000 in scholarships.
“The interaction between the students and the real world situations of competing and working with a client are part of the education process. We hope this experience will help them understand how to market their art work after graduation. Grapes for Grads is about furthering the education for young people and helping them learn how to compete in our local and national workplace. We hope that Katherine will see her work in our marketing campaign and know that she earned this, much like graphic artists in the workplace win contracts. As her client, we are very happy with her work,” remarked event Co-Chair Jeffrey Redeker. Mr. Redeker also serves as a member of the Rotary Club and President-Elect of the Chamber of Commerce.

Megan Ford & Lindsay Jaggers, with Tom Simpson, Dennis Power LCAD Pres, David Sanford Pres Chamber of Commerce, Noel Johnon Pres Rotary Club of LB & Jeffrey S Redeker

Chelsea Harrington scholarship winner with Dave Sanford, Tom Simpson, Bob Ward and Jeff Redeker photo