Dozens attend the Nov. 14 dedication of two ceramic benches near Las Brisas restaurant in honor of former school board member Clifford “El” Hathaway.
The Hathaway family commissioned Laguna Beach artist Marlo Bartels to create two tile-encrusted benches. The City Council unanimously agreed to accept the donation in July.
The former Laguna Beach Unified School board member was engaged in civic life in multiple capacities over the years. Mayor Bob Whalen called Hathaway a friend on Tuesday. The cost of the Bartels-designed bench project is $18,500.
“El’s friends and family gathered together to honor his last wishes: to always watch out for his beloved wife, Lori, and have a place to sit and enjoy the view,” neighbor Ed Sauls said.
