My introduction to that prep school world was going on extended Dead tour on East Coast in early ‘80s. I loved that you had the pink polo crowd intermingling with Hells Angels members back in the day. Some of the granola crew found them douchey but I thought they added to the mis en scene.
When I hear “Fire on the Mountain” I often remember those Tucker Carlson types bobbing their heads in unison.
I didn’t know prep schools existed until I got to college.
-Al
Email from Laura’s House
Dear Brig,
On behalf of everyone at Laura’s House, thank you for being part of the 2026 Falltacular, our 20th annual event supporting survivors of domestic violence. Your participation helped make this milestone year incredibly meaningful.
For two decades, the Falltacular community has come together with generosity and compassion, raising nearly $750,000 to support Laura’s House and our mission to end domestic violence. This year alone, donors pledged more than $50,000, ensuring that individuals and families in crisis have access to life-saving services and a path toward healing.
During the event, we listened together to a powerful 911 call that reminded us why this work matters so deeply. In the United States, 1 in 15 children witness domestic violence in their homes. Behind every statistic is a child, a parent, and a family whose future can be changed when help is available. Because of your support, Laura’s House can continue providing emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and prevention education, offering safety and hope to those who need it most. Your generosity helps break cycles of violence and creates safer futures for families throughout our community.
We are deeply grateful for your commitment and partnership in this mission. Below you will find a summary of your contributions to this year’s event.
Thank you for standing with Laura’s House. We look forward to seeing you again next year as we continue this important work together.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Margaret Bayston & Dawn Hoem
Laura’s House
Our Contact Information
Laura’s House
33 Journey, Ste 150
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
(949) 361-3775
A thank you to Gerry Frayer, who is in ITB and has attended Falltacular for 20 years! An old soul of our event, for sure. On behalf of Falltacular, this week Gerry flew north and as part of his visit, he took the Pisoni family their 15 year anniversary thank you bottle for hand delivery. The Pisoni family has been supporting the event for this long, sending wine every year for both tasting in the house and for the silent auction in the garage. Like with Ed Kurtzman featured above, they have stuck with us and helped up raise the money for Laura’s House.
I want to thank Jeff for being an advocate for our event, for the clients of Laura’s House. THANK YOU!
Gerry is on the left, Jeff is on the right, with the handprinted bottle.
