Newport Beach couple dies at upscale Cabo resort from an as-of-yet-to-be determined cause

Last week a Newport Beach couple, Abby Lutz, 28 and John Heathco, 40, were found unresponsive in their Cabo San Lucas five-star resort hotel room, with preliminary reports suggesting possible inhalation of some type of gas as a cause in their Tuesday (June 13) death.

The resort, Hotel Rancho Pescadero, owned by Hyatt, has disputed reports that the couple may have died due to death by some type of a gas leak.

The Los Angeles Times, however, is reporting that “several employees (of the resort) have come forward alleging managers overlooked complaints,” with suggestions from them that carbon monoxide detectors had possibly been disabled as a result of multiple inadvertent alarms occurring over the recent months.

Prosecutors in Mexico’s Baja California Sur state said Thursday that autopsies suggest Lutz and Heathco died of “intoxication by an undetermined substance.” Local police initially reported that gas inhalation was suspected as the cause of death.

Two paramedics who responded to the scene of Lutz and Heathco were reportedly overcome by inhalation issues presented in the room, causing one to collapse upon exiting.

Reports following Lutz’ and Heathco’s death said that both were hospitalized in the days prior due to their passing to what they had considered food poisoning.

Heathco was described as a “wellness junkie” who ran a health supplements website, while Lutz reportedly worked as a nanny.

A GoFundMe account has been established to provide funds for transportation and funeral costs for Lutz. An amount of more than $32,000 has been raised towards an initial goal of $30,000.

Fast facts from Newport Beach Police to keep our community safe

A series courtesy of the Newport Beach Police Department

Courtesy of NBPD

Security tips for bike owners

The Newport Beach Police Department recommends that all bike owners implement the following recommendations for keeping their bicycles secure:

–Invest in a high-quality bike lock & make sure you know how to properly use it.

–Never leave your bike outside overnight even with a good lock on it. Even good locks can be defeated if a thief has enough time and the right tools.

–Whenever possible, secure your bike to a fixed object in a locked garage or storage area.

–When you are out and about, try to park your bike where you can see it.

–Report your lost or stolen bike to the police as soon as possible.

–Register your bicycle (for free) at www.project529.com/newportbeach.

For more tips on bike safety and security, see the Newport Beach Police Department page here.

Regattas and Races…

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Bronny Daniels | Joysailing.com

Baxter Bowl

Newport Harbor Yacht Club

Saturday & Sunday, June 17 & 18

Finn (3 sailed)

1 C. Raab,  NHYC/ABYC, 1-1-3=Total 5

2 E. Lidecis, BCYC/ABYC, 3-2-1=Total 6

3 C. Buckingham, NHYC, 7-3-2=Total 12

4 P. Toth, n/a, 2-5-5=Total 12

5 P. Ramming, NHYC, 8-4-4=Total 16

6 A. Nosar, SDYC, 4-6-7=Total 17

7 J. Reiter, SDYC, 11-7-11=Total 29

8 R. Kinney, NHYC, 17-8-6=Total 31

9 M. Ramming, NHYC, 15-9-8=Total 32

10 L. Hope, SDYC, 14-10-9=Total 33

11 J. Buley, SDYC, 9-12-12=Total 33

12 P. Regnier, ABYC, 12-13-10=Total 35

13 B. Martin, MBYC, 5-16-20=Total 41

14 R. Fournier, ABYC, 10-11-20=Total 41

15 A. Siggelkow, ABYC, 13-15-13=Total 41

16 M. Dorgan, SDYC, 6-20-20=Total 46

17 D. Wood, NHYC, 18-14-14=Total 46

18 K. Yonkers, NHYC, 19-17-15=Total 51

19 B. Dwan, NHYC, 16-20-20=Total 56

Star (3 sailed)

1 Doyle/Infelise,  SDYC, 1-1-1=Total 3

2 P. Cayard/D. Cayard, SFYC, 5-2-2=Total 9

3 Szabo/Toyama, SDYC, 2-3-4=Total 9

4 Madigan/Strube, NHYC, 6-4-5=Total 15

5 Smith/O’Mahony, SFYC, 4-5-6=Total 15

6 Barnard/Moss, NHYC, 8-7-3=Total 18

7 J. Buckingham/C. Buckingham, NHYC, 7-10-7=Total 24

8 Dodson/Pritchard, ABYC/CYC, 10-6-9=Total 25

9 Trotter/Rudderham, SWYC, 9-9-8=Total 26

10 Stout/Mitchell, SDYC, 3-8-18=Total 29

11 C. Beek/A. Bradley, NHYC, 12-11-12=Total 35

12 Batchelor/Brown, NHYC, 14-13-10=Total 37

13 C. Beek/Sayyur, NHYC, 11-14-13=Total 38

14 Brown/Gargano, BCYC, 18-12-11=Total 41

15 Gould/Sieck, SFYC, 13-15-14=Total 42

16 R. Peters, CYC, 15-17-15=Total 47

17 Lippincott/H. Beek, AYC, 16-16-16=Total 48

2023 NHYC Twilights Series

Thursday, June 15

Finn (6 races scored, 1 discard)

1 R. Kinney, NHYC, 1-1-1-(2)-1-1=5

2 n/a, n/a, (3)-3-3-1-2-2=11

3 K. Yonkers, NHYC, 2-2-2-(5)-5-4=15

4 B. Dwan, NHYC, 3-3-3-3-(4)-3=15

5 B. Wood, NHYC, 3-3-3-4-3-(5)=16

6 Michael Downing, NHYC, 3-3-3-(6)-6-5=20

Harbor 20 A (5 races scored, 1 discard)

1 Thompson/Conzelman, NHYC/BCYC, 1-1-1-(2)-1=4

2 A. Campbell/T. Campbell, NHYC, 2-4-5-(8)-2=13

3 L. Bose, BCYC, 7-2-(9)-3-6=18

4 Golison/Corsi, SDYC, 4-5-4-6-(12)=19

5 K. Wiese/A. Wiese, NHYC, (9)-9-7-4-4=24

6 A. Deermount/B. Menninger, NHYC, (14)-14-3-1-7=25

7 N. Madigan, NHYC, (14)-14-6-5-3=28

8 T. Cheadle, NHYC, (11)-11-2-7-10=30

9 P. Haynes/D. Haynes, BCYC, 6-(10)-10-9-5=30

10 Camerini/Detwiler, WSA-OC, 3-3-(13)-13-12=31

11 n/a, n/a, 5-8-(13)-13-12=38

12 G. Thorne/K. Thorne, BYC, 8-7-(13)-13-12=40

13 B. McDonald, NHYC, 10-6-(13)-13-12=41

14 n/a, n/a, (14)-14-8-11-8=41

15 Corkett, NHYC, (14)-14-11-10-9=44

16 Kimble, ABYC, (13)-12-12-12-11=47

17 B. Richley/N. Richley, NHYC, 12-(13)-13-13-12=50

Harbor 20 B (5 races scored, 1 discard)

1 Watanabe/Sutherland, UCISA, (2)-2-2-2-1=7

2 Fischbacher, BSSB, 1-1-(4)-4-2=8

3 n/a, n/a, 2-2-(3)-1-3=8

4 n/a, n/a, 2-2-1-3-(4)=8

Harbor 20 C (5 races scored, 1 discard)

1 Sellinger, NHYC, (2)-1-2-1-2=6

2 Hall/Crary/Kincaid, NHYC, 1-2-1-3-(3)=7

3 T. Winsor/J. Winsor, NHYC, (5)-4-3-4-1=12

4 B. Symes/LL Symes, NHYC, (6)-6-4-3-4=17

5 Bubb, NHYC, 3-3-6-(8)-6=18

6 Puzant Zorayan, LIYC, 4-(5)-5-5-5=19

7 M. Daily/C. Daily, NHYC, (6)-6-6-6-6=24

8 C. Atkins/F. Dair, BYC, 6-6-6-(7)-6=24

9 H. Hall/B. Crary, NHYC, 6-6-6-(8)-6=24

10 K. Whitney, NHYC, 6-6-6-(8)-6=24

11 Allen, BYC, 6-6-6-(8)-6=24

12 J. Bailey/D. Bailey, NHYC, 6-6-6-(8)-6=24

13 Morgan, NHYC, 6-6-6-(8)-6=24

Lehman 12 (6 races scored, 1 discard)

1 C. D’Eliscu, NHYC, (5)-5-5-1-1-1=13

2 M. Ramming, NHYC, 3-3-2-2-3-(4)=13

3 J. La Dow, NHYC, 1-1-1-8-(9)-8=19

4 T. Macdonald/G. Blackman, NHYC, (5)-5-5-3-2-5=20

5 C. Beek, NHYC, 5-5-5-4-(6)-2=21

6 n/a, NHYC, (5)-5-5-5-4-3=22

7 A. Curtiss, NHYC, 2-2-3-8-(9)-8=23

8 Ch. Bailey/Ca. Bailey, TPYC, 4-4-4-6-(7)-7=25

9 D. Belden, NHYC, 5-5-5-(8)-5-8=28

10 K. Fuller/C. Fuller, NHYC, 5-5-5-7-(8)-6=28

2023 Beercans – Lager (June) Series

Balboa Yacht Club

Thursday, June 15

PHRF 1 Division (Distance: 4.5)

1 Rossa, J. Gargano, BYC

   Elapsed 0:50:51, Corrected 0:51:32

PHRF 2 Division (Distance: 4.5)

1 D19, Compadres, BYC/NHYC

   Elapsed 0:51:52, Corrected 0:49:19

2 Baraka, J. Mostafa, BYC

   Elapsed 0:59:32, Corrected 0:56:37

3 TNT, W. Selby, BYC

   Elapsed 0:58:30, Corrected 0:56:42

4 Spitfire, M. Glackin, BYC

   Elapsed 1:02:20, Corrected 1:00:46

PHRF 3 Division (Distance: 4.5)

1 Radical Departure, Rosene Family, BYC

   Elapsed 1:03:19, Corrected 0:54:46

2 Buena Vista, B. Green, ALYC

   Elapsed 1:10:05, Corrected 1:01:32

3 Gator, D. Moore, BYC

   Elapsed 1:19:50, Corrected 1:12:47

PHRF 4 Division (Distance: 3.8)

1 Moose & Squirrel, M. Moosman, BYC

   Elapsed 1:04:06, Corrected 0:51:34

2 Gem, Whitaker/Cooper, BYC

   Elapsed 1:11:45, Corrected 0:57:41

3 Silk, J. Hanscom, SSYC

   Elapsed 1:09:19, Corrected 0:58:29

4 Tui, B. Boyle, BCYC

   Elapsed 1:09:22, Corrected 0:59:52

News relating to racing in or around Newport Harbor should be forwarded to Tom Johnson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Week in Review

A weekly newsletter from City Manager Grace L. Leung

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of City of Newport Beach

Newport Beach City Manager Grace Leung

Community Members:

The city has begun deploying additional police and parking control officers to the Oceanfront Boardwalk under a new program to enhance public safety in some of the Balboa Peninsula’s busiest areas.

The new “Boardwalk and Quality of Life Enforcement Program” replaces the Boardwalk Ambassadors after a two-year trial. While the Boardwalk Ambassador program was successful in providing outreach and education, it lacked enforcement capabilities for infractions such as bicycle speeding, surreys on the boardwalk, skateboarding and other issues of importance to residents.

Under the new program, officers will continue to provide outreach and education, but will take enforcement actions when necessary, including issuing citations for violations of the California Vehicle Code and Newport Beach Municipal Code, and making arrests when appropriate.

The new program will use $200,000 a year previously allocated to the ambassadors to fund police officer overtime. The additional officers will generally be deployed on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and holiday weekends throughout the year.

Officers will work directly with the Police Department’s Peninsula Enforcement Team and coordinate with other divisions such as traffic and homeless outreach. In addition to patrols, police will conduct periodic, targeted speed-enforcement operations and address other quality-of-life community issues and concerns. Utilizing patrol vehicles, bicycles, beach quad runners, beach trucks and foot-beat patrols, officers will serve as a visual deterrent to would-be offenders and be available to assist community members and visitors.

We are excited to begin this new phase of our public safety efforts on the Peninsula. If you have questions, comments or would like to provide input on the new program, contact Newport Beach Police Lt. Corey Wolik at 949.644.3617, or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

City Manager, Grace K. Leung

Newport Beach Gets High Summer Grades in Latest Heal the Bay Report Card

Newport Beach scored high marks during the summer season in the 33rd Annual Heal the Bay Beach Report Card, released Wednesday, June 14.

Of the 36 Newport Beach bay and ocean testing sites listed in the report, 32 earned an A or A+ during the summer season, when the beaches are most frequented. Four sites earned a B grade. Heal the Bay’s annual report measures bacterial pollution for more than 700 West Coast beaches, from Washington to Baja, ranking them and grading their water quality from A to F.

Newport Beach’s grades were consistent with other California beaches, 94% of which received an A or B grade during the summer season.

Earning consistently high marks for water quality is more difficult during the wet weather, when rainfall washes bacteria and other toxins into oceans and bays. During the wet weather, five Newport Beach ocean-facing beaches received an F, while two earned B grades. Encouragingly, all Newport Harbor locations were graded A+, A or B during wet weather. Fewer beaches received winter dry grades because most of the winter data was collected during wet weather.

2023 Drinking Water Quality Report Now Available

The city’s Utilities Department has prepared the annual drinking water quality report covering the 2022 calendar year. This annual report was recently mailed to all Newport Beach water customers and can also be found on the city’s website.

The city vigilantly safeguards its water supply. As in years past, the water delivered to your home and business meets the quality standards required by federal and state regulatory agencies. About 85% of our water comes from local groundwater, and the remaining 15% comes from the Northern California and the Colorado River.

For information about the report or water quality information in general, contact the City Utilities Department at 949.644.3011.

Be Well Mobile Crisis Response Update

The Be Well mobile crisis response team operates in Newport Beach 12 hours a day, seven days a week to respond to mental and behavioral health crises. The mobile unit is staffed with mental health specialists and works closely with the city’s police and fire departments.

This week, the Be Well team:

–Transported a person back to their sober living home for treatment.

–Transported a person to the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter for a successful intake.

–Connected a person to addiction treatment resources.

–Assisted a family with developing a care plan for a loved one in need of mental health services.

TO REACH BE WELL: The mobile crisis team is dispatched through the Newport Beach Police Department. To request service, dial 911 or call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 949.644.3717.

Homelessness Update

Last week the city’s homeless outreach and response teams:

–Enrolled two new clients into services.

–Assisted a client with their housing appointment at the Veterans’ Administration office.

–Continued to shelter people. Twenty people who had been experiencing homelessness in Newport Beach are sheltered in the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter.

Click here to view the latest homeless dashboard, which includes key monthly and yearly data on the city’s homeless response.

This Week’s Events

Thursday, June 22

Planning Commission Meeting

City Council Chambers

100 Civic Center Drive – 6 p.m.

Saturday, June 24

2023 Newport Beach Art Exhibition

Civic Center Community Room

100 Civic Center Drive – 12-6 p.m.

See Full Schedule

Editor’s Note: City Manager’s Updates was received Friday, June 16 and is subject to editing so the information is current.

One hundred years of art history at Crystal Cove

Crystal Cove Conservancy, the nonprofit public benefit organization partnered with Crystal Cove State Park, will continue the century-long tradition of art at Crystal Cove State Park with exciting summer art events beginning June 21. From painting a masterpiece on the beach to meeting local artists, art aficionados will have the chance to take part in the living history of art at Crystal Cove.

Crystal Cove State Park has a rich art history spanning more than 100 years. The tradition continues today, as artists trek down every year to paint the scenic cottages, iconic ocean-side bluffs and relaxing sandy beaches, setting up their easels to paint en plein air – on site, in the open air.

The Conservancy’s popular Great Plein Air Art Experience classes will return to the Crystal Cove Historic District on Tuesdays and Thursdays from July 13 through August 31. Participants will spend the day capturing the beauty of the Cove on canvas, as they paint the beloved seaside landscape. Crystal Cove plein air artist, Debbie Morines, will be an artistic guide, taking participants through the process of creating a plein air painting from beginning to end. All supplies will be provided. Class size is limited to 12 and the minimum age is 18. Pricing is $120 per workshop or $100 for Crystal Cove Conservancy members.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Exciting summer events begin on June 21

For those who are looking to be an art observer rather than a participant, come experience the new Meet the Artist events on June 21 and July 5 from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Held on the deck of the Crystal Cove State Park Interpretive Store in the Historic District, attendees will have the opportunity to meet some of their favorite Crystal Cove artists as they create a masterpiece right before their eyes. On June 21, Long Beach-based artist Anne Kupillas will demonstrate her impressive watercolor technique. Then, on July 5, Gobind Boyes will sweep attendees away with her beautiful seascape paintings. Each Meet the Artist event is open to the public and free to attend.

For more information about summer art events at Crystal Cove and to register for the Great Plein Air Art Experience, click here. To learn more about the Crystal Cove State Park Historic District and the history of art at the Cove, join a free Historic District Walking Tour happening every fourth Saturday of the month. More information about upcoming Historic District Walking Tours can be found by clicking here.

Crystal Cove Conservancy works to protect the historic, natural and cultural resources of Crystal Cove State Park. Their unique public/private partnership with California State Parks means that all revenue raised is reinvested into programs that use the park as an outdoor classroom for STEM education. These programs will cultivate our planet’s next generation of environmental stewards, ensuring that Crystal Cove and places like it live on for generations.

Newport Beach – A Look Back

Photo series courtesy of Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach

Aerial photo of Newport Boulevard and PCH where you can see the Arches in the distance

Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach and the Museum Store are located at 210 B Marine Ave., Balboa Island. They are open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free general admission on all days. Two-hour parking is available on Marine Avenue. For more information, call 949.675.3952, visit www.balboaislandmuseum.org or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Childhelp Orange County netted more than $625,000 at the Rich Saul Memorial Golf Classic

The Childhelp Orange County Chapter raised more than $625,000 net, at the 41st Annual Childhelp Rich Saul Memorial Golf Classic at the Newport Beach Country Club on Monday, May 12. This year marked the 11th anniversary to bear the name of their dear, Rich Saul. Co-Chairs Debra Violette and Cathie Caporaso and tournament coordinator Eileen Saul did a fabulous job for this sold-out event.

This event has raised nearly well over $6 million in the past 16 years since the inception of the Corporate Sponsor Committee, which consists of prominent leaders in our community.

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(L-R) Teresa Harrah, Vince Ferragamo, Eileen Saul and Jackie Slater (NFL Hall of Fame)

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(L-R) Patricia Ford and Childhelp Co-Presidents Pam Pharris and Gina Van Ocker

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(L-R) Former NFL and Rams players Vince Ferragamo, Jackie Slater and Dennis Harrah with the Rams Cheerleaders

Highlights were the presence of former teammates of Rich Saul – Los Angeles Rams players Vince Ferragamo, Dennis Harrah and Jackie Slater (who gave the invocation) and the Ram Cheerleaders.

The Rams Cheerleaders were on hand in the morning for photo ops.

Rich Saul Heart and Soul Recipient: Justin Wheeler, a longtime supporter of Childhelp OC Chapter

Men’s Corporate Sponsor Committee Chairs: Justin Wheeler, Matthew Fletcher and Mike Abel

Childhelp Tournament Coordinator: Eileen Saul

Tournament Co-chairs: Cathie Caporaso and Debra Violette

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Jacquie and Michael Casey (Platinum Title Sponsors) with family

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Justin Wheeler (Rich Saul Heart and Soul Recipient) with Eileen Saul

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(L-R) First Place Winners Bobby Hill, Sam Perricone Jr. and Tyler Smith (not pictured, Kolin Ozonian)

After the tournament, golfers and additional guests began the evening with cocktails on the beautiful terrace overlooking the golf course with a silent auction and opportunity drawing which some fabulous items followed by a fantastic buffet dinner with a very lively auction and paddle raise, to raise money of the children we serve.

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Rams Cheerleaders flank (L-R) Chairs Cathie Caporaso, Eileen Saul and Debra Violette

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Julie Adams with Hole-in-One Prize

Tournament Winners: Sam Perricone Jr., Tyler Smith, Bobby Hill and Kolin Ozonian

Longest Drive: Men’s - Jason Ford; Women’s - Kim Penney

Putting Contest Winner: Jacquie Casey

Platinum Title Sponsors: Jacquie and Michael Casey

Tournament Advisors: Debra Violette and Patti Edwards

Executive Sponsors: The Cleo A. Bluth Charitable Foundation, O’Connell Family Foundation and The Regal Foundation

Associate Sponsors: Black Knight, Inc; Connor Fletcher & Hedenkam LLP; Fidelity National Title Group; Frome Family Foundation; Lyon Living and Merrill Lynch/Gabe Pate

Corporate Sponsor Committee: Garrett Abel, Mike Abel, Loren Cargile, Michael Casey, Patti Edwards and Jim Edwards, James Farhart, Mike FitzGerald, Matt Fletcher, Jamie and Steve Hong, Eoin Kreditor, Scott McDonald, Brady O’Connell, George O’Connell, Gabe Pate, Vinny Perricone, Jim Violette, Justin Wheeler, Steve Zotovich/Shelby Crist, Eileen Saul, Julie Thornton-Adams

Event Committee Members: Tracy Abel, Nancy Cardin, Mary Allen Dexter, Patti Edwards, Patricia Ford, Susie Gaunt, Ellen Hanson Walker, Susan Hill, Christine Johnson, Kim Kegans, Jennifer Kite, Patty McNally, Katherine Meredith, Diana Miner, Teri Nanko, Pam Pharris, Rosalie Puleo, Joyce Simon, Tami Smith, Julie Thornton and Gina Van Ocker

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Madera Pharmaceuticals Group – (L-R) Brian Bentson, Mike Danzi, John Westersten and Rick Reiff

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(L-R) Childhelp National Chair Patti Edwards, Childhelp Chief of Staff Michael Medoro and Dianne DiSanto

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(L-R) Former Rams Jackie Slater, Vince Ferragamo and Dennis Harrah

Childhelp is proud to report that for each dollar expended, more than 85 cents is invested into serving the children in need of our program services, which include three Group Homes in Costa Mesa and the Childhelp Merv Griffin Village in Beaumont, Calif. Anyone wishing to make a donation to Childhelp should contact either Eileen Saul at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or Diana Miner at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or by mail to Childhelp, P.O. Box 2954, Newport Beach, Calif. 92659.

School Notes

Dr. Kurt Suhr named Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education

Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) has announced Dr. Kurt Suhr as the Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education. Dr. Suhr has served NMUSD for more than 25 years, 13 of those years at the district level, most recently as administrative director of elementary education.

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Courtesy of NMUSD

Dr. Kurt Suhr

As assistant superintendent, Dr. Suhr will be responsible for leading the development, selection, implementation and evaluation of the district’s elementary program, in order to accelerate and enhance student learning for all students. His work will include use of data-driven decision making in overseeing transitional kindergarten, early literacy, and other elementary goals and initiatives focused on student success. He also will support principals in achieving school goals, as well as collaborate with school communities to address instructional, social and emotional, and other needs of students and families.

Dr. Suhr, a graduate from the NMUSD, has served the district in a variety of capacities, focusing on elementary education. Throughout his career at NMUSD, Dr. Suhr served as a teacher, teacher on special assignment with a focus on technology, assistant principal and principal at Rea Elementary School, and principal at Newport Heights Elementary School. He also served districtwide as director of elementary education focused on curriculum and instruction, as well as executive director of elementary education.

While at the district level, Dr. Suhr played an instrumental role in the reopening of schools during the pandemic and has led multiple instructional initiatives including the implementation of state standards. He also led the process to increase instructional minutes at elementary schools and served on instructional materials review committees, the special education task force and the employee negotiations team.

Dr. Suhr obtained his Doctor of Education and Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Irvine and his Master of Arts from Pepperdine University.

He will transition to his new role on July 1, 2023.

Pet of the Week 

Stu News Newport is delighted to be working with the Newport Beach Animal Shelter to help get the word out in search of loving homes for pets that deserve a warm, nurturing environment and a place to call “home.”

The shelter proudly presents Snowy, a delightful two-year-old female Chihuahua mix, currently seeking her forever home. Brimming with charm and affection, Snowy may be small in size, but her capacity for love knows no bounds. With her delightful personality, she effortlessly wins over hearts with her playful nature and unwavering friendliness. Whether engaging in spirited playtime or curling up for a cuddle session, Snowy’s friendly and playful nature will enchant you from the moment you lay eyes on her.

Don’t miss the opportunity to welcome Snowy into your life. To schedule an appointment to meet her, contact the Newport Beach Animal Shelter by calling 949.718.3454, or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The Newport Beach Animal Shelter is open daily from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and appointments are available.

Courtesy of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter

Meet Snowy

In addition, they have a great professional photographer who is donating her time to help the shelter get the best out of their pet guests. They invite you to visit Andrea Domjan’s IG page at @andrea_domjan_photography to see all of her fabulous photography that she shares with the world.

The shelter does require completed application forms for their animals, so simply print one up from their non-profit’s webpage at www.FONBAS.org. After it is completed, you can email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and upon review, they’ll call you to schedule an appointment. If you have any questions, call 949.718.3454.

Newport Beach Animal Shelter adoption fees:

–Adult Dogs - $150

–Puppies - $225

–Adult Cats - $90

–Kittens - $110

–Rabbits - $45

Also, consider becoming a member of an incredible nonprofit that supports the city’s efforts with providing wonderful opportunities to stray, injured, ill and owner-surrendered domestic pets.

Friends of OASIS re-elects all board of directors incumbents

The annual elections for the Friends of OASIS Board of Directors were held again this past week. The board is comprised of 15 members, and five are voted on each year. This year all incumbents were re-elected to a three-year term which included VP Kathy Stewart, VP Kay Walker, Treasurer Howard Herzog and board member Judy Cooper.

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Courtesy of Friends of Oasis

Mike Zimmerman

Mike Zimmerman was elected president for a fifth term. New member Jim Spivey was added this year as a new board member as well. Zimmerman addressed the board and said, “I am thrilled to have most of the incumbents re-elected to our great team here at OASIS.”

Mayor Pro Tem Will O’Neill will be present at the July 7 General Meeting in the OASIS Event Center to officiate the swearing-in of the newly elected members.

Free lawn bowling lessons at Newport Harbor Lawn Bowling Club

In this year’s summer issue of the Newport Navigator, free lessons are being offered on the first and third Saturday of July and August at 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Newport Harbor Lawn Bowling Club. Dates are July 1 and 15 and August 5 and 19.

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Courtesy of Newport Harbor Lawn Bowling Club

(L-R) Nicky Kapadia, Cindy Cooper, Kerrie Benvenut, Karen Stone and Herb Glazeroff

The folks in this picture had signed up and had a great lesson provided by instructor, Herb Glazeroff. There is still space, so to sign up click here.

Newport Harbor Lawn Bowling Club is located at 1550 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar.

Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Trust me, Father’s Day is truly a day to remember

This Sunday is Father’s Day. It’s a day designed to honor one’s father or, and this is a big or, particularly for me, relevant father figure. You see, my father died in 1959 at the young age of 29. It’s a morning I still can close my eyes and remember to this day, and I was only 6 at the time.

It was early on a September Sunday morning when my father was struck with a cerebral aneurysm. He died within minutes, leaving his wife (my mom) with three children, ages 7, 6 and 4, and 5 1/2 months pregnant with a fourth.

Sad, right? Oh, I don’t know, you be the judge.

Here’s where the story gets interesting. You see, my father, who was a very successful young executive with Ford Motor Co., came home a month before his passing and told my mom that he had met a new guy at work named Bill Johnson. He said something to the effect that he was a really nice guy, recently divorced, and they should have him over for dinner some time.

Well, several years later, my uncle, also a Ford Motor Co. employee, you guessed it, set my mom up on a blind date with that same guy named Bill Johnson.

Guess what, they hit it off. My father had been right, Bill Johnson was a great guy. My mom would eventually marry him, with him legally adopting all four of us children, before adding a fifth to the mix.

His presence alone changed all of my siblings and my lives. Despite having two kids of his own through a previous marriage, there was never a question of whether or not he was our dad. We could tell EVERYDAY that he truly loved each of us as his own.

So, I’d like to say that for every Father’s Day thereafter, I celebrated him on that day. Unfortunately, I can’t and I didn’t.

You see, Father’s Day didn’t come into existence as a recognized holiday until 1972 – 58 years (1905) after President Woodrow Wilson had made Mother’s Day official.

Obviously, that made 1972 the first year I could officially wish my dad Happy Father’s Day.

It’s all crazy when I think about it. You see, as the number two son, I was a problem kid that acted out. Go figure. I got into trouble, nothing serious, but just with little things like talking back, not taking school seriously and not necessarily interacting with my brother and three sisters properly.

My dad “corrected” those traits! Some of you might remember back when parents could actually discipline their children to get a message across. Not in a mean or over-powering way but my dad was good at it! His reminders came with a little pain, but looking back I know I deserved it.

When he died in 1996, I thought back a lot on how he changed and saved my life. His influence was unquestioned. And I’m proud to say today that I loved him so much.

With that, Dad I wish you a very Happy Father’s Day.

It’s something I’d like to remind so many of you out there about. Take the time to tell those around you how much you love them. You never know when they’ll no longer be around.

Recognize, too, that a father figure is NOT just a person related by blood, as I fortunately found out.

And this Sunday I’ll be thankful for my two girls, Ashley and Victoria. Many of you have met Ashley through her work, first with Visit Laguna Beach and now with Visit Newport Beach.

I couldn’t be prouder!

Victoria is my other one. She came into my life when she was just 11. And fortunately for her, she still also has a dad that’s alive and well that she also dearly loves. But I’m glad I got a chance to impact and influence her life after I married her mom.

At the time, Victoria seemed a little confused with her direction in life. Her mother and I tried to help her find a path. Today, Victoria is a nurse practitioner in cardiothoracic medicine at Long Beach Memorial Hospital. She’s also the mother of my three little grandchildren and, too, phenomenal at her job and still better as a mom.

I love both of my girls tremendously.

People sometimes say, “Oh, that’s so sad that your father died at such a young age!” I agree, but truth be told, because of that so many wonderful things were added to my life. None bigger, however, than my dad.

To all the fathers out there, Happy Father’s Day! Remember your responsibility and keep up the good work.

• • •

Granted, there are a lot of special recipients of awards from our high school graduates during this time of year.

However, one that always catches my attention is the Vincent D. Mulroy Scholarship Award which is presented annually to the NHHS graduating offensive football player who has demonstrated the highest level of athleticism, citizenship and academics.

The award was named in Vince’s honor by his teammates and friends after his untimely death in 2009. It was created to go towards the recipient’s college tuition.

This year that recipient is Newport Harbor High School senior football player Kashton Henjum.

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Submitted photo

Rick John (L) and Joseph Mulroy (R) flank Newport Harbor High School football player Kashton Henjum, the recipient of the 2023 Vincent D. Mulroy Scholarship

Henjum has been a flanker for the Tars, the same position that Mulroy played for NHHS when he graduated in 1975. Vincent would then go on to Stanford University where he became an Academic All-American wide receiver under coach Bill Walsh and continued to excel in life.

For Henjum, his next step will be on to the University of Utah to continue his studies and career.

Newport Beach resident Rick John, one of Mulroy’s former teammates and friends, presented the award, reminding all, “With Vince Mulroy, you knew you were in the presence of greatness.”

Congratulations Kashton Henjum!

• • •

And big news in the local tennis circles this week. Niels Hoffmann, who plays for Corona del Mar High School where he’ll be a senior next year, will be honored Thursday night (June 15) at the 13th Annual National High School All American Awards Banquet. The banquet takes place at the Newport Beach Yacht Club.

Niels is one of just 40 boys across the United States to be honored as an All-American. This year he won the CIF high school tennis singles championship. And, if all that isn’t enough, Hoffmann has already been accepted to play tennis for USC following next year’s graduation from CdMHS.

As Tim Mang, the executive director of the National High School Tennis All-American Foundation, said when getting me this info, “Quite an honor.”

• • •

You’ve probably heard about the Newport Beach Citizen’s Police Academy. It’s a program offered two times annually affording residents of Newport Beach the opportunity to take weekly classes over a three-month period to learn and better understand the inner workings of the PD.

I know. I was part of the graduating course last fall. It was fantastic!

Newport Beach Fire also offers a similar program titled CERT, which stands for Community Emergency Response Team. The program is designed to prepare residents, while working with the NBFD, to help prepare attendees to help others in the event of a catastrophic disaster.

Now, John Wayne Airport is joining the community educational process by launching their own outreach program. It’s called the AirACADEMY and has been designed to provide residents with an overview of how the airport functions.

Participants will learn how airport operations, service programs and business partners work together to successfully provide a safe, secure and efficient award-winning airport.

AirACADEMY will include six two-hour sessions, covering Access & Noise, Finance, Business Development, Public Affairs, Sustainability, Operations and Security. There is no cost to participate, however, attendance at all sessions is required to ensure a complete experience.

Application and details are on the website at www.ocair.com/AirACADEMY. The deadline to apply for their initial class is June 30.

Ensign Intermediate School Promotions 2023

On Wednesday, June 7, Ensign Intermediate School held their eighth grade promotions ceremony at 4:30 p.m. at Newport Harbor High School’s Davidson Field. Congratulations to all those promoted!

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Photos courtesy of NMUSD

Ensign Intermediate students during the promotions ceremony

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Ensign Intermediate School Principal Samantha Payne congratulating the promoted students

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This Ensign student shares her comments with ceremony attendees

Corona del Mar Middle High School Promotions 2023

On Wednesday, June 7, Corona del Mar Middle School held their eighth grade promotions ceremony at 2 p.m. at Newport Harbor High School’s Davidson Field. Congratulations to all those promoted!

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Photos courtesy of NMUSD

Getting ready for the promotions ceremony

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Corona del Mar Middle School Principal Dr. Rebecca Gogel addresses the students and attendees

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They did it!

Congratulations Classes of 2023!

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Photos courtesy of NMUSD

On Thursday, June 8, the 2023 Graduating Classes of Corona del Mar High School (top) and Newport Harbor High School (bottom) held their commencement ceremonies. Congratulations to all the graduates! Look for more graduation and promotion photos in today’s edition.

Cloud High School Graduation 2023

On Thursday, June 8, Cloud High School held their graduation ceremony at 1 p.m. at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church. Congratulations to all the graduates, who comprise the final graduating class of Cloud High!

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Photos courtesy of NMUSD

Cloud High School graduates are recognized for their achievements during their ceremony at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church

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Cloud High School graduates and staff during the commencement ceremony

Back Bay/Monte Vista High School Graduation 2023

On Thursday, June 8, Back Bay/Monte Vista High School held their graduation ceremony at 10 a.m. at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church. Congratulations to all the graduates!

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Photos courtesy of NMUSD

Kirk Bauermeister, principal Back Bay High School, addresses graduating seniors and ceremony attendees

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Back Bay/Monte Vista Graduating Class

Regattas and Races…

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Photo by Bronny Daniels | Joysailing.com

Nash Spring Championships

Newport Harbor Yacht Club

Saturday, June 10

Lehman 12 (7 sailed, 1 discard)

1 D’Eliscu/Jacobsen, NHYC, 1-3-1-(5)-1-5-1=Total 17, Net 12

2 La Dow/Dahl, NHYC, 3(5)-3-2-2-4-2=Total 21, Net 16

3 Ramming/Fuller, NHYC, 2-2-4-1-5-(6)-3=Total 23, Net 17

4 Mais/Batcher, NHYC, (7)-1-2-7-3-3-7=Total 30, Net 23

5 Reiter/Durgan, SDYC, (6)-6-5-3-6-2-4=Total 32, Net 26

6 Person/Peter, NHYC, 5-(7)-6-6-4-1-6=Total 35, Net 28

7 La Dow/Hampton, SDYC/NHYC, 4-4-(7)-4-7-7-5=Total 38, Net 31

8 La Dow/Hampton, NHYC, 7-(8)-8-8-8-8-8=Total 55, Net 47

2023 NHYC Twilights Series

Thursday, June 8

Finn (2 races scored)

1 Robert Kinney, NHYC, 1-1=2

2 Keith Yonkers, NHYC, 2-2=4

3 Michael Downing, NHYC, 3-3=6

Harbor 20 A (2 races scored)

1 Thompson/Conzelman, NHYC/BCYC, 1-1=2

2 A. Campbell/T. Campbell, NHYC, 2-3=5

3 Golison/Corsi, SDYC, 4-4=8

4 Len Bose, BCYC, 7-2=9

5 n/a, NHYC, 5-7=12

6 G. Thorne/K. Thorne, BYC, 8-6=14

7 Bob McDonald, NHYC, 10-5=15

8 P. Haynes/D. Haynes, BCYC, 6-9=15

9 Camerini/Detwiler, WSA-OC, 3-14=17

10 K. Wiese/A. Wiese, NHYC, 9-8=17

11 Cheadle, NHYC, 11-10=21

12 Kincaid, NHYC, 12-12=24

13 Kimble, ABYC, 14-11=25

14 B. Richley/N. Richley, NHYC, 13-13=26

15 Nick Madigan, NHYC, 15-14=29

16 Corkett, NHYC, 15-14=29

Harbor 20 B (2 races scored)

1 Fischbacher, BSSB, 1-1=2

2 Watanabe/Sutherland, UCISA, 2-2=4

Harbor 20 C (2 races scored)

1 Sellinger, NHYC, 1-1=2

2 Bubb, NHYC, 2-2=4

3 T. Winsor/J. Winsor, NHYC, 4-3=7

4 Puzant Zorayan, LIYC, 3-4=7

5 Hall/Crary, NHYC, 5-5=10

6 K. Whitney, NHYC, 5-5=10

7 B. Symes/LL Symes, NHYC, 5-5=10

8 Allen, BYC, 5-5=10

9 J. Bailey/D. Bailey, NHYC, 5-5=10

10 Morgan, NHYC, 5-5=10

Lehman 12 (2 races scored)

1 La Dow, NHYC, 1-1=2

2 Curtiss, NHYC, 2-2=4

3 Ramming, NHYC, 3-3=6

4 Ch. Bailey/Ca. Bailey, TPYC, 4-4=8

2023 Beercans – Lager (June) Series

Balboa Yacht Club

Thursday, June 8

PHRF 1 Division (Distance: 4.1)

1 Rossa, J. Gargano, BYC

   Elapsed 0:38:19, Corrected 0:38:56

PHRF 2 Division (Distance: 4.1)

1 D19, Compadres, BYC/NHYC

   Elapsed 0:42:30, Corrected 0:40:11

2 Dani Girl, M. Campbell, BYC

   Elapsed 0:49:20, Corrected 0:46:40

3 TNT, W. Selby, BYC

   Elapsed 0:49:01, Corrected 0:47:23

4 Spitfire, M. Glackin, BYC

   Elapsed 0:49:36, Corrected 0:48:10

PHRF 3 Division (Distance: 4.1)

1 Radical Departure, Rosene Family, BYC

   Elapsed 0:55:30, Corrected 0:47:43

2 Cha Cha Cha, L. Walter, CYCA/LIYC

   Elapsed 0:55:33, Corrected 0:48:59

3 Gator, D. Moore, BYC

   Elapsed 0:55:27, Corrected 0:49:02

4 Violetta, Jane Hartley, BCYC

   Elapsed 0:56:23, Corrected 0:49:49

5 Buena Vista, B. Green, ALYC

   Elapsed 0:57:54, Corrected 0:50:07

PHRF 4 Division (Distance: 3.4)

1 Gem, Whitaker/Cooper, BYC

   Elapsed 0:55:51, Corrected 0:43:16

2 Tui, B. Boyle, BCYC

   Elapsed 0:56:45, Corrected 048:15

3 Silk, J. Hanscom, SSYC

   Elapsed 1:01:02, Corrected 0:51:21

News relating to racing in or around Newport Harbor should be forwarded to Tom Johnson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Week in Review

A weekly newsletter from City Manager Grace L. Leung

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Courtesy of City of Newport Beach

Newport Beach City Manager Grace Leung

Community Members:

Get ready to embark on a summer adventure filled with the joy of reading! The Newport Beach Public Library was excited to begin its 2023 Summer Reading Program on Saturday, June 10, and we want you to be a part of it. This year’s theme is “Find Your Voice.”

Whether you’re already a bookworm or just getting started in your reading journey, you’ll have a great time participating in our program. There are incentives to keep you motivated, such as digital badges and prizes as you reach reading milestones, and grand prize drawings for those who complete the program.

The Summer Reading Program runs for seven weeks, from June 10 through July 29. To get started, sign up for a free Beanstack account and select your age group’s online Summer Reading Program. Online registration via Beanstack began June 10.

The program is divided into three groups based on age: adults, teens and children.

–Adults: Adults are invited to register online with Beanstack and receive a free book from any city library location while supplies last. Once registered, begin tracking every 20 minutes of reading or listening to audiobooks. Every 100 minutes earns you an entry ticket into the grand prize drawing at the end of the program, with the chance to earn up to six entries.

–Teens: 7th-12th graders are invited to participate in the Teen Summer Reading Program by registering on Beanstack. Teens who register can collect a prize book at any city library branch while supplies last. Reading and reviewing books earns entries into our weekly prize drawings, with a grand prize drawing available to those who read and review at least three books.

–Children: The Children’s Summer Reading Program is for those entering 6th grade and younger. Participants register via Beanstack, and keep track of their reading time and activities to earn digital badges and prizes. Once registered, readers can pick up a free paperback book at any city library location. Participants who complete the program will be entered into a grand prize drawing. Be sure to also join us for children’s craft activities and programs each week.

A special thank you to our dedicated Newport Beach Public Library staff and the Friends of the Library, whose generous contributions fund the Summer Reading Program. Sign up today and let your reading adventure begin! 

City Manager, Grace K. Leung

Summer Reading

The Newport Beach Public Library’s Summer Reading Program for kids, teens, and adults runs through July 29. Join us for a summer of reading and a summer of fun!

Sign up for Summer Reading on the Library’s website at www.newportbeachlibrary.org.

CdM Clock Tower Repainting Complete

The city’s Public Works Department recently completed a project to repaint and restore the Corona del Mar clock tower at the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Marguerite Avenue.

The clock tower commemorates CdM’s Centennial Anniversary and is an attraction for residents and visitors alike.

General Plan Committees Convened on June 12

On Monday, June 12, the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) met at 5 p.m. and the General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) met at 6 p.m., or shortly thereafter, in the Community Room at the Civic Center.

To view the GPAC agenda click here, and for the GPUSC agenda click here.

The comprehensive update of the community’s General Plan is a large undertaking. Public participation is invited and encouraged throughout the process. If you have any questions or to learn more, visit www.newportbeachca.gov/gpupdate, or contact city staff at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Newport Coast Drive Lane Closures to Begin June 19

As a reminder, lane closures on Newport Coast Drive from E. Coast Highway to Ridge Park Road are scheduled to start on Monday, June 19 for asphalt repaving.

The lane closures will be in place during working hours, which are limited to 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

This project is scheduled to be completed by the end of August.

Please contact Project Manager Ben Davis at 949.644.3317 with questions.

Be Well Mobile Crisis Response Update

The Be Well mobile crisis response team operates in Newport Beach 12 hours a day, seven days a week to respond to mental and behavioral health crises. The mobile unit is staffed with mental health specialists and works closely with the city’s police and fire departments.

(Last) week, the Be Well team:

–Transported a person to a crisis stabilization facility for treatment.

–Transported a person to a substance use disorder treatment facility.

–Transported a person to a local nonprofit to obtain shoes and hot food.

–Collaborated with the police department to assist a person living in a vehicle who wants to relocate to their home in another state.

–Educated residents and businesses on the Be Well OC services and campus.

TO REACH BE WELL: The mobile crisis team is dispatched through the Newport Beach Police Department. To request service, dial 911 or call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 949.644.3717.

Homelessness Update

(Last) week the city’s homeless outreach and response teams:

–Placed a client in the Yale Navigation Center.

–Assisted a couple with reuniting with their family in another county.

–Enrolled two new clients into services.

–Assisted a client with his housing appointment at the Veterans’ Administration office.

–Transported a client to the Social Security office to obtain a new card and housing voucher awards letter.

–Continued to shelter people. Nineteen people who had been experiencing homelessness in Newport Beach are sheltered in the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter.

Click here to view the latest homeless dashboard, which includes key monthly and yearly data on the city’s homeless response.

On the Agenda: June 13 City Council Meeting

The next City Council meeting is Tuesday, June 13 (tonight). Items of interest are highlighted below. The entire agenda and reports can be viewed here.

A study session will begin at 4 p.m. Agenda items include:

–The County of Orange Public Works Department will provide an overview of planned improvements to the Santa Ana-Delhi Flood Control Channel, which will provide enhanced flood protection and habitat mitigation along with trail improvements.

–Staff from the Community Development Department will present an overview of the city-owned Balboa Yacht Basin, which includes a marina, storage garages, a restaurant, commercial retail and offices and several residential apartments. The presentation will focus on the condition of the aging buildings and potential redevelopment opportunities.

The regular meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. Agenda items include:

–Community programs and special events grant recommendations for Fiscal Year 2023-24. The City Council will consider staff recommendations to award grants to qualified community groups, community and charitable events, and large signature events.

–Establishment of a new Special Flood Hazard (VE) Overlay District. The VE Overlay District would modify design standards for new residential developments in the VE Special Flood Hazard Area (VE Zone) as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). New development in the VE Zone is required to meet FEMA construction design criteria. Due to the complexity of complying with FEMA criteria and the city’s current design standards, the proposed ordinance would provide property owners with more flexibility in designing their homes.

Adoption of the Fiscal Year 2023-24 City operating budget and Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget. The annual budget serves as the foundation for financial planning and control and allows the City Council to prioritize expenditures in alignment with community values. The proposed budget includes:

–$410.7 million in operational spending and $29.4 million in capital improvement projects, for a total of $440.1 million.

–A stable local revenue base with projected fiscal year 2023-24 property tax revenues growing at an estimated 3.4%.

–A healthy level of reserves that includes a General Fund contingency reserve of $62 million – an amount equal to 25% of the city’s General Fund operating budget.

–Continuation of an aggressive pension payment plan which, based on current projections, will see the city’s unfunded pension liability eliminated in less than 10 years.

–Seven hundred sixty-five full-time positions, an increase of 24 full-time positions from the prior year, 14 of which are conversions of existing part-time positions to full-time positions. Part-time positions would decrease by a total of 11.78 full-time equivalent positions.

–Recommendations from the city’s Homeless Ad Hoc Committee. In March, the City Council reestablished the Homeless Ad Hoc Committee to evaluate contract services under the city’s homeless outreach program. The committee has prepared a list of recommendations for the City Council’s review and discussion, which include proposed policy changes and a community education initiative.

View the Full Agenda

This Week’s Events

Tuesday, June 13

City Council Meetings

City Council Chambers

100 Civic Center Drive – 4 p.m.

Wednesday, June 14

Harbor Commission Meeting

City Council Chambers

100 Civic Center Drive – 5 p.m.

Thursday, June 15

Zoning Administrator Meeting

Zoom – 10 a.m.

Harbor And Bay GPAC Subcommittee Meeting

Corona del Mar Conference Room, Bay 1E

100 Civic Center Drive – 4 p.m.

See Full Schedule

Editor’s Note: City Manager’s Updates was received Friday, June 9 and is subject to editing so the information is current.

Newport Harbor High School Graduation 2023

On Thursday, June 8, the 2023 Graduating Class of Newport Harbor High School held their commencement at 5:30 p.m. at Davidson Field. Congratulations to all of the graduates!

Here is pictorial glimpse of the ceremony.

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Photos courtesy of NMUSD

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School Notes

Facilities department creating purposeful learning spaces for students

Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) continually seeks to update and modernize school facilities by creating beautiful and purposeful learning spaces for students. Below are some projects currently under construction, slated for construction, or in the planning process.

Facility & Maintenance Master Plan

Planning continues on the development of a district-wide facilities and maintenance master plan. The plan will outline strategies, priorities, and guidelines for the district’s facilities and maintenance department to provide physical infrastructure that supports the educational mission and goals of their schools. It will establish a long-term vision for the district’s facilities, taking into account factors such as enrollment projections and program needs to anticipate and address future facility demands in a comprehensive and thoughtful manner.

Facilities staff conducted walkthroughs of district schools and property in collaboration with school principals to document school facility needs. Needs assessments will continue throughout summer, with public meetings anticipated in fall 2023 to gather public input.

Upcoming Construction Projects:

Ensign Intermediate School

Ensign Student Gathering Area

Construction is anticipated to start this summer on an outdoor student gathering area that includes landscaping surrounded by brick and concrete seating walls in the center of campus. This will provide students a space to gather for lunch, nutrition breaks or socializing.

Estimated Completion: Winter 2023/2024

Newport Coast Elementary

Newport Coast Field Access

This project includes shade structures, seating, stairs and ramp to access the top-level field. Construction is anticipated to start this summer.

Estimated Completion: Winter 2023

Projects in the Planning Phase:

Elementary School Multipurpose Room Upgrades

This project includes an upgrade of the audio-visual equipment in elementary school multipurpose rooms. Facilities staff is currently working with schools to determine each of their needs to establish equipment specifications, budget estimates and project schedules.

Newport Harbor Aquatics

This project includes a remodel of the aquatics complex, including installation of shade structures, replacement of bleachers, addition of sports lighting and relocation of the scoreboard. Additional project features include pool replaster and deck repairs, remodel of locker rooms, restrooms, showers and remodeled coaches’ offices. The project is currently in the design phase.

District staff is working with school administration and the City of Newport Beach to relocate aquatic activities during construction, as the pool will not be available during construction. A construction start date for this project has not been determined. All efforts will be made to minimize pool closure time and lessen the impact on the school and community aquatics programs.

Newport Harbor Culinary

This project is in the early planning stages and includes modernization of the culinary program kitchen. Schematic designs and cost estimates are currently underway.

The Facilities Department considers itself a service organization dedicated to the success and satisfaction of all students, staff and parents. Its dedicated staff works to find innovative solutions to meet the needs of students. Visit the Facilities website to learn more.

Newport Beach – A Look Back

Photo series courtesy of Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach

Looking towards PCH and Newport Boulevard, 1948

Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach and the Museum Store are located at 210 B Marine Ave., Balboa Island. They are open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free general admission on all days. Two-hour parking is available on Marine Avenue. For more information, call 949.675.3952, visit www.balboaislandmuseum.org or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Guest Column

Hon. Joe Stapleton

Newport Beach City Council, District 1

Fulfilling My Campaign Pledge to Keep Newport, Newport

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Courtesy of City of Newport Beach

Joe Stapleton

In the nearly two decades that I have been a resident of Newport Beach, I have seen many positive changes. We are rightfully proud of our collective efforts to preserve our city’s quality of life. Visitors and new residents alike regularly marvel at the safety of our neighborhoods, the vibrancy of our schools, the quality of our water and open spaces, and the sophisticated – but still family-friendly – small-town feel.

Constantly improving isn’t without its difficulties. City Council District 1, where I live, covers Balboa Peninsula, Lido and Newport Shores. This is the oldest section of our city and portions were dubbed “the war zone” due to disorderly behavior and crime, typically during peak summer season.

In recent years, the City of Newport Beach has worked hard to reduce that element in our community and make the Peninsula a safe, family-friendly environment. The City Council’s decision to build Marina Park in 2015 was an example of an overall adjustment to the image of the Peninsula from that of a party scene every summer to one where families can enjoy recreation in a safe atmosphere. The ongoing construction at Sunset Ridge Park will further complement these improvements. This is a proud moment for residents on the west side to see continued investment on our side of town.

Having some of the best law enforcement personnel in the country certainly helps too. With property crime rising around the state and here locally, our Newport Beach Police Department has implemented a crime suppression unit that is seeing solid results. Along the boardwalk, Newport Beach previously invested in an ambassador program, where these civilian personnel would focus on quality-of-life issues, boardwalk safety and homeless concerns. Upon taking office, I was instrumental in reallocating the $200,000 annual budget for this program towards the NBPD Peninsula Enforcement Team because, unlike the civilian ambassadors, these officers can actually enforce the law.

Our historic bars, restaurants and visitor-serving businesses have always been a staple of the Peninsula’s identity, where anyone can come to enjoy a drink and the beach. Still, we can’t let that be an excuse for bad actors to take advantage of the neighborhoods and families that call this community home.

Newport Beach has worked hard to make itself one of the best communities to raise a family, run a business and retire. We pride ourselves on being a city of permanent long-term residents with a vested interest in keeping Newport the epitome of suburban America. In partnership with members of our Peninsula community, our City Council unanimously voted to regulate “fractional homeownership” as a timeshare in April of this year.

This is consistent with prior approaches that pushed against the commercialization of residential communities. While we have benefited from significant investments from local leaders in our hospitality community, and I am eager to continue that theme with our short-term rental operators, we need to focus on re-imagining our short-term rental market across the city and on policy where we no longer permit bad behavior when it comes to code enforcement violations. Focusing on a proactive approach to short-term rentals, as opposed to reacting when bad behavior occurs, is something the city needs to consider. In these neighborhoods, people carry out their lives, raise families, build long standing friendships and invest in their community.

I thank my colleagues, staff, and – most importantly – the Newport Beach residents who have voiced their thoughts in productive and constructive ways in my first months on City Council. Together we will continue to ensure the vibrancy, safety and resiliency of Newport Beach.

Hon. Joe Stapleton is a member of the Newport Beach City Council. First elected in 2022, he represents District 1.

Fast facts from Newport Beach Police to keep our community safe

A series courtesy of the Newport Beach Police Department

Courtesy of NBPD

Response Times

In 2022, the Newport Beach Police Department’s (NBPD) average response time for a Priority 1 call was 3 minutes, 21 seconds. The NBPD defines response time as the elapsed time between when a unit is first dispatched to a call for service to when the first unit arrives. NBPD categorizes calls for service into priority levels and tracks their response time according to each priority.

Priority 1 calls are the most serious calls and include things like violent crimes in progress, life-threatening circumstances and urgent disturbances.

Priority 2 calls are the next most serious and include events such as violent crimes that have just occurred, property crimes that are in progress or have just occurred and traffic collisions.

For more information on NBPD’s response times, check out this link: www.nbpd.org/what-we-do/information/response-times.

Corona del Mar High School Graduation 2023

On Thursday, June 8, the 2023 Graduating Class of Corona del Mar High School held their commencement at 2 p.m. at the CdMHS Sea Kings’ field. Congratulations to all of the graduates!

Here are some snapshots of the ceremony.

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Photos courtesy of NMUSD

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Council agenda covers homeless recommendations, flood hazard overlay district, fee study, 2023-24 budget, committee appointments

By SARA HALL

Tonight's Newport Beach City Council meeting includes a variety of interesting items.

At tonight's meeting, Tuesday, June 13, council will consider: Recommendations from the Homeless Ad Hoc Committee; special flood hazard overlay district; a fee study update and the proposed fiscal year 2023-24 budget. There are also several notable items on the consent calendar, presentations during the study session, and matters which councilmembers have asked to be placed on a future agenda.

Last up during current business, the council will consider recommendations from the Homeless Ad Hoc Committee. Council re-established the committee in March for the purpose of evaluating the contract services under the city’s homeless outreach program.

The committee, comprised of Mayor Noah Blom and councilmember Robyn Grant and Lauren Kleiman, developed a list of recommendations for the council review.

Under overall directives, the committee recommends creating a council policy for the city’s approach to people experiencing homelessness. The policy should: Focus all efforts and funding on street exits; offer services first; regular and even enforcement of all city and state laws; consistent tracking and reporting across all departments and partners; reallocate funds previously considered for grants for homeless-related services toward city-run initiatives, and perform baseline citywide count and repeat annually.

The committee is also recommending the council revise contracts for consistency with the proposed policy, acquire and/or access additional shelter beds, and hold vendors and partners accountable to proposed council policy.

The recommendations also includes consideration of adopting a new ordinance for code clarification.

Committee members are also suggesting that the city engage a consultant for community education regarding the city’s “Good Giving” campaign.

The council will also consider amending the ad hoc committee’s scope and term.

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Rendering courtesy of City of Newport Beach

A rendering of a VE compliant design with the proposed code amendments for the special flood hazard overlay district

Also on the council agenda for tonight is a public hearing regarding a code amendment establishing the “VE” special flood hazard overlay district for West Oceanfront properties on the Balboa Peninsula.

On May 4, the Planning Commission unanimously approved the staff proposed amendments to city code to establish the overlay district for properties generally located between 24th Street and 48th Street and designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as being in the VE Special Flood Hazard Area (VE zone).

On March 21, 2019, new FEMA flood insurance rate maps went into effect in the city. The new maps include the designation of a Special Flood Hazard Area (VE Zone) affecting 166 beachfront properties in West Newport, between 24th Street and 48th Street. This area FEMA believes is subject to wave action.

The city did not agree with the methodology of FEMA and appealed the maps. As a result, a lot of areas were removed from the flood zone, but not this particular area.

New development within the VE Zone is required to meet FEMA construction design criteria, which includes elevating the finished floor of new residential structures approximately three to five feet above existing grade to avoid flood hazards from potential wave action. This includes using pilings, posts, piers, or columns to raise the main residential structure and maintaining an open foundation free of obstructions for those areas located below the base flood elevation (BFE). In the event of a wave attack, these structures are designed to allow water to flow below the elevated floor system without damaging the foundation or creating substantial debris.

Of the 166 affected properties in the West Newport zone, 27 properties are in the “VE 13” area and require structures to be elevated by approximately three feet above the existing grade. The remaining 139 properties are in the “VE 15” area and require structures to be elevated approximately five feet above the existing grade.

In order to develop a new structure, a significant remodel, or substantial improvement in this area, builders are required to raise the finished floor of these structures above grade about three to five feet and they’re located on piers, posts and piles.

Compliance with the VE zone design criteria presents several challenges for new residential development to also meet the requirements of city code. Specifically, the VE Zone design criteria significantly limit means of access to the dwelling, as well as the usability of outdoor areas.

The proposed amendments seek to remedy the challenges related to access and usability of outdoor areas. Specifically, the proposed amendment is intended to resolve conflicts in the NBMC related to height allowances in setbacks that limit or eliminate access and usability of front, side and rear setbacks.

These amendments do not change any of the FEMA VE requirements. The proposed overlay would modify development standards for new residential projects allowing raised walkways, decks and stairs with necessary guardrails to encroach into the front, side and rear setback areas to provide reasonable use and site access. The raised decks and walkways would be elevated similarly to the required elevated finished floor of the new home.

“Due to the complexity of complying with FEMA construction design criteria and the city’s current design standards, the proposed ordinance is meant to provide the property owner with flexibility in the design of their home,” the staff report explains.

In another public hearing, council will consider approving the fiscal year 2022-23 fee study update and an amendment to the paramedic subscription program fees.

The city performs an annual study of user fees and charges to ensure that fees and charges do not exceed the cost of providing services, which is performed on a rotating basis by the department every three to five years. This year, the city hired a consultant, ClearSource Financial Consulting, to update the fees in the community development, fire, and police departments (following a cost recovery analysis).

ClearSource met with staff from each department to discuss the services provided, the annual volume for those services, and the staff resources and time estimates for delivering the related services. To factor in both direct and indirect costs, ClearSource calculates the department staff’s fully burdened hourly rate, which includes both internal administrative as well as citywide overhead costs. The fully burdened hourly rates are applied to the time estimates provided by staff and the fee is calculated.

There are a few notable fee changes proposed.

In the planning division of the community development department this division, staff is also recommending two new fees:

–Litigation defense fee, which would be based on actual cost, on a time and materials basis. In cases where legal staff time is incurred, staff proposes utilizing the full hourly and burdened rate of personnel as well as the city and departmental overhead rates established by the most recently completed cost allocation plan in the fee calculation.

–General plan maintenance fee, which would be dedicated to costs associated with maintaining and updating the city’s general plan and support documents. The fee will be applied as 5% of all new construction, additions and alterations for residential and commercial project building permit fees, and is intended to recover 12% of the city’s estimated ongoing and future costs related to this core service area.

Under the fire department, the emergency medical services’ advanced life support and basic life support (both with transport) fees are both proposed to increase by 2% to align both transport fees with the current cost of providing these services. The increase was anticipated to be of a marginal nature and more of an inflationary adjustment since these fees were more significantly adjusted as part of the FY 2019-20 fee study to capture the vehicle and equipment cost along with the cost associated with the ambulance billing service and disposable medical supplies.

Staff is also proposing to increase the fee for the voluntary paramedic subscription program, known as Fire Medics, from $60 to $84 per year. This increase is due to the increased cost of transport services. The last subscription service fee increase occurred in 2015.

There are also two new fees proposed related to fire prevention inspections, both proposed at $455, for multi-level inspections of a fire alarm system and of a commercial fire sprinkler system.

There are also several new fees for animal control division in the police department. Staff is proposing a $70 adoption fee of a senior dog or cat, a $155 fee for court ordered inspections for miscellaneous animal inspection services, a $200 fee for the owner turn-in fee of an unaltered animal and a $248 fee for a declared dangerous animal.

Staff is also recommending a parking pay-by-cell fees ranging from 15 cents to 25 cents per transaction.

In another public hearing related to finance, council will consider adopting the FY 2023-24 budget and recommendations from the Finance Committee.

Council held a joint study session with the committee on May 23 and, after detailed discussions, no changes were made to the proposed budget.

The operating budget totals $410.7 million and the capital budget totals $29.4 million in fiscal year 2023-24, for a total of $440.1 million. Capital spending of $233.8 million is anticipated over the six years covered by the CIP, subject to change with each future annual budget process.

According to the staff report, the budget includes:

–A stable local revenue base with projected fiscal year 2023-24 property tax revenues growing at an estimated 3.4%.

–A healthy level of reserves that includes a general fund contingency reserve of $62 million.

–Continuation of an aggressive pension payment plan with a level dollar payment of $40 million and the intent to allocate an additional $5 million from the fiscal year 2023-24 remaining surplus of revenues over expenditures, which based on current projections will see the city’s unfunded pension liability eliminated in less than 10 years.

–The proposed FY 2023-24 budget includes 765 full-time positions, an increase of 24 full-time position from the prior year.

Earlier in the meeting, on the consent calendar (items considered routine and usually voted in one motion without discussion unless a councilmember pulls the item), council will consider: The second reading of the mooring field design pilot project, which was unanimously approved on May 23; the seven-year Measure M2 capital improvement program for transit related projects; a $312,155 agreement with Granicus, LLC, for Granicus web and govAccess updates, and grant recommendations for community programs and special events.

Also on the consent calendar, council will also consider the applications and confirmation of nominations to the Water Quality/Coastal Tidelands Committee, the Finance Committee, Board of Library Trustees, Building and Fire Board of Appeals, Arts Commission, Civil Service Board, Harbor Commission and the Planning Commission.

Earlier in the meeting, during matters which councilmembers have asked to be placed on a future agenda (non-discussion items), council will consider two possible future discussion items, both suggested from Councilmember Erik Weigand.

First, council will consider directing staff to research Planning Commission stipends in surrounding and comparable Orange County cities to determine if Newport Beach compensates its commissioners appropriately.

As the second potential future agenda item, council will consider initiating the process of renaming Back Bay View Park in honor of former Councilmember Jean Watt. She was also a co-founder of SPON (Stop Polluting Our Newport/Still Protecting Our Newport), former Citizen of the Year, founder and president of the Friends of Harbors, Beaches and Parks, fund development chairman for the Environmental Nature Center, and longtime community activist. Watt died on April 16 at the age of 96.

During the study session earlier in the meeting, council will hear an overview of improvements to the Santa Ana-Delhi Flood Control Channel. Staff from Orange County public works department will share a presentation regarding work to the existing flood control channel from Upper Newport Bay to downstream of Mesa Drive in the Santa Ana Heights area.

The primary goals of the project are to provide enhanced flood protection and habitat mitigation. Additionally, the existing trails in the area will be improved for regional connectivity and the Bayview Trail Bridge will be replaced. The county will also discuss planned outreach efforts throughout design and construction of the project.

Also during the study session, council will hear an overview of the city-owned Balboa Yacht Basin property, located at 829 Harbor Island Drive.

Currently developed with a 172-slip marina, storage garages, a restaurant, commercial retail and office uses, and several residential apartments, the property is almost fully occupied. Built in the 1950s, the buildings are approaching the end of their useful life and need significant investment.

The presentation will focus on the current state of the buildings and the possible opportunity to seek a private sector partner to redevelop it.

The council agenda is available online here. The study session will begin at 4 p.m., followed by the closed session, and then the regular meeting at 6:30 p.m.

The meeting can be watched live on the local NBTV channel (Spectrum 3 or Cox 852) or on the city’s website here.

Members of the public may speak in person in council chambers (there is not a remote or online option to participate).

Questions and comments can be submitted in writing for City Council consideration by sending them to the city clerk at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To give the council adequate time to review comments, written comments were submitted by 5 p.m. on June 12 (the day before the City Council meeting). Correspondence received by this deadline will be uploaded to the agenda packet by June 12 at 5:30 p.m. and can be viewed here.

Material received after the deadline and prior to 2 p.m. today (the day of the meeting) will be provided to the council in hard copy and will be available to the public at the meeting.

~~~~~~~~

Sara Hall covers City Hall and is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

Newport Beach camps gearing up for best summer ever - Jump into June

With summer just around the corner, local camps are opening registration and getting ready to offer kids the best summer ever. To make it a summer your child will remember, take a look at these choices.

Jump into June with one of their summer camps! Spots are still available in various summer camps during the first week of summer.

–Camp Newport - City of Newport Beach

Registration for summer classes opened Thursday, May 18 at 8 a.m.

For more information on enrollment for all summer camps and classes visit at www.newportbeachca.gov/register.

Camp dates: June 6-August 18

Over than 400 online and in-person camps available.

–Active Kids & Preschool 101 Registration

Save the Date: Registration for Active Kids and Preschool 101 will open Thursday, July 20 at 8 a.m.

Parents can sign up for Annual or Fall Active Kids sessions held at Newport Elementary, Mariner’s VJC, or the Community Youth Center. The fall season of Preschool 101 will be available at the Newport Coast Community Center or Mariner’s VJC. Join us for another year of fun and creativity.

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Courtesy of City of Newport

Water sports are offered

With hundreds of weekly full and half-day camps to choose from, Camp Newport has just the activity to help your child make the most of their summer. They cover everything from water sports and beach camps to science, music and art, so campers can find fun and exciting ways to create memories, make friends, and enjoy the best that Southern California has to offer.

Find your flow and row your way into one of our hundreds of camps and classes. Whether you’re ready to enjoy the sun and shore or embrace the shade indoors, we have the camps and classes to help your child make the most of their summer. Visit us online soon to view our fully linked digital edition of the Summer 2023 Newport Navigator. Newport Beach residents will start seeing Newport Navigators in their mailboxes next weekend.

–Beach Volleyball

Learn to play beach volleyball from a professional volleyball player with Volley OC. Get kids active and moving with Fitfirst BootCamp, where kids will learn a mix of popular sports with a unique blend geared toward strength training in a fun and exciting way. Take a look at those camps and many more on campnewport.com!

–Swim Lessons

Swim Lessons are returning to Newport Harbor High School! A block of afternoon Swim Lessons at NHHS has just been added to this summer’s schedule. These NHHS lessons begin on June 12 and will run from 3-6pm. Available lessons include Levels 1-3, Parent & Me, Preschool and Private Lessons. Stay cool this summer by joining in for swim classes at either of their Corona del Mar High School.

Visit newportbeachca.gov/aquatics for more information.

 –Adult League Basketball

Summer adult league basketball registration is still open and closes on Friday, June 16th. Teams will play nine guaranteed games with a chance at playoffs. Additional league and registration information can be found by clicking here.

Visit newportbeachca.gov/sports for more information on our upcoming sports leagues.

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Courtesy of City of Newport

This camper is enthusiastic about science

Location: Community Centers, parks, and beaches throughout the City of Newport Beach.

For more information, visit www.campnewport.com, or contact the Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Department at 949.644.3151, or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

–Camp James at Newport Dunes

Children ages 4-13, camp dates: June 5-August 11

Registration is open.

Camp James is a traditional style day camp offered in a natural, outdoor environment. Their goal is to expose children to a wide variety of activities as well as provide abundant opportunities for campers to increase their skill development each year they return for another summer session.

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Courtesy of Camp James

Camp James attendees gather for an activity

All of their activities take place on the Camp James campgrounds. Groups are co-ed and according to age. Online registration allows you to select the same group as your friends and/or family if desired. Activity classes are scheduled typically for 45-60 minutes each and rotate daily between the groups.

They offer every group all of the activities their age qualifies for in a given week and offer a water-related activity every day for all groups.

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Courtesy of Camp James

Groups are co-ed and according to age

Camp Activities: Archery (8 years and up), Arts & Crafts, Bounce House, Canoes, Dance, Drama, Gaga, Go-Carts (6 years and up), Kayaks (8 years and up), Laser Tag, Martial Arts, Magic/Escape Rooms (Only on select weeks), Miniature Golf, Music, Nature Lore, Playground, Rock Climbing (6 years and up), Sports & Athletics, Stand Up Paddleboards (8 years and up), Swimming, Targets/Marksmanship (4-7 years old), Trikers (4-7 years old), Water Park and so much more!

Go to www.campjames.com to register. For more information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 949.729.1098.

Camps are selling out fast, so don’t wait and register now.

–Seashore Academy Summer Camp

According to the subject, camps start on different dates. Seashore Academy is located at 1011 Camelback St., Newport Beach.

Courtesy of seashoreacademy.org

Stem summer camp

Choose your favorite Seashore Academy Summer Camp. Their camps emphasize a blend of experimental learning, quality science education and joyous experiences. Subjects are introduced in a fun learning environment which will foster intellectual curiosity.

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Courtesy of seashoreacademy.org

Outside activities at Seashore Academy Summer Camp

Stem Camp (10 weeks, ages 4-10),  starts on June 19; Sensory Science (9 weeks, ages 3-8), June 19; Unlocking Cosmic Personalities (10 weeks, grades 6-8), June 19; Spanish Camp (10 weeks, TK and kindergarten), June 19; Ukulele (5 weeks, ages 8-12), June 19; Camp Create (6 weeks, ages 6-9), June 19; Western Roundup Camp (10 weeks, grades TK-5th), June 19; Around the World (5 weeks, ages 6-11), June 19 and Mandarin Camp (3 weeks, ages 5-11), July 10.

For more information, go to https://seashoreacademy.org/summer-camp/, call 949.264.3195, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

–2023 Summer Basketball Camps: Fryer Basketball Academy

Their Summer Day Camps provide a competitive and fun learning environment for beginning to advanced players. Players will be broken up into various groups by age and skill, learning various skills in stations throughout the day and youngsters will have a chance to put them to use in many 1-on-1, 3-on-3 and full court games. K-8 for boys and girls.

Monday, June 26-Thursday, June 29:

Location: Pacifica Christian High School Gym

Address: 883 W. 15th St., Newport Beach

Grades K-8: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Monday, July 10-Thursday, July 13:

Location: Pacifica Christian High School Gym

Address: 883 W. 15th St., Newport Beach

Grades K-8: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Monday, August 21 - Thursday, August 24:

Location: St. Michael’s Church Gym

Address: 3233 Pacific View Drive, Corona del Mar

Grades 3-6: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

For more information, go here.

–Matt Leinart Flag Football

Youth football camps for kids ages 4-14.

Each day will include football fundamental drills covering different positions, followed by flag football games where players can put those new skills to use. Players will receive instruction from experienced, professional coaches, with age-appropriate drills in an approximate 10-1 player to coach ratio. Campers will receive a T-shirt, and there will be daily prizes and awards.

Typical Camp Schedule:

1st Hour - Speed and Agility Work

2nd Hour - Football Skill Drills and Fundamentals

3rd Hour - Flag Games

Newport Beach

June 26-29 (Monday through Thursday), 8:30-11:30 a.m., Mariners Park, 100 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach.

For more information, go to www.mlflag.com.

–Summer Surf Camps

~Endless Sun Surf School

Registration is open for summer camps, ages 6 and up, co-ed.

Morning Surf Camp, Monday through Friday, 8-10:30 a.m., Surf and Boogie, Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Voted Orange County’s BEST SURF CAMP for many years in a row (Parenting OC Magazine). Students will learn ocean awareness, safety, paddling techniques, how to catch and ride waves, how to turn, surf etiquette and more.

For more information, go to www.endlesssunsurf.com, or call 949.533.1022.

~Newport Surf Camp

Weeklong camps, June 5 through August 18: full day, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. and half day, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., with three- and five-day sessions. Camps are great for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. For more information, go to: www.newportsurfcamp.com, or call 866.787.3226.

~California Body Boarders

Registrations is open for summer camps. Weekly sessions, June 19 through August 14, ages 6-14, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Corona del Mar State Beach, Corona del Mar. For more information, go to www.californiabodyboarders.com, or call 949.413.5671.

Upcoming happenings at OCMA

Rounding out the month of May and through June, in addition to the engaging exhibitions, OCMA has a variety of events and activities for all ages. From artist talks to art and design workshops for kids and families, and Women in Wine (Burgers and Burgundy), come discover what is happening at the Orange County Museum of Art in the month of June.

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Photo by Jeff Mclane

Artist Talk with Sara Cain

Tuesday, June 13: Artist Talk: Sara Cain at 6 p.m. Los Angeles-based artist Sarah Cain paints exuberant abstractions that often extend beyond the canvas into installations, site-specific painting, stained glass and furniture, drawing from varied sources including expressionism, performance art, graffiti art and pop music. Join Cain in conversation with OCMA’s CEO and Director Heidi Zuckerman as they discuss creative compositions, interpretations of color and spatial transformations. Cain’s work is featured in the 13 Women: Variation l and 13 Women: Variation Il exhibitions. Tickets are free and required. Go here to register.

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Courtesy of OCMA

Art + Play for ages 0-2

Wednesday, June 14: Art + Play (ages 0-2) from 10-11:30 a.m. Held the second Wednesday of the month, explore fun ways to introduce art and creative thinking to children. View a current exhibition that inspires deeper engagement through playful artmaking activities for infants ages 0-2 and caregivers. Tickets are free and required.

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Courtesy of OCMA

Women in Wine: Burgers and Burgundy on June 16

Friday, June 16: Women in Wine: Burgers and Burgundy at 6 p.m. Indulge your taste buds with a selection of cru burgundy and a gourmet burger. Your choice of either beef or a plant-based patty. Burgers are provided by Populaire. Wine is provided by Argaux, sourced from Domaine Rougeout from Mersault, Burgundy. OCMA members receive $10 off the ticket price. Buy your tickets here.

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Courtesy of OCMA

Art + Play for ages 3-5

Wednesday, June 21: Art + Play (ages 3-5) from 10-11:30 a.m. Held the third Wednesday of the month, check out fun ways to introduce art and creative thinking for youngsters and their caregivers. Drop in anytime between 10 and 11:30 a.m. Tickets are free but required.

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Courtesy of The Estate of Alice Neel and David Zwirner

Celebrate the openings of three summer exhibitions

Friday, June 23: Public Opening from 6-8 p.m. Celebrate the openings of three new summer exhibitions: Alice Neel: Feels Like Home, Tony Lewis: CASUAL T and Yu Ji: A Guest, A Host, A Ghost. Light bites and drinks available for purchase.

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Courtesy of OCMA

Family Fun for ages 3 and up

Saturday, June 24: Family Fun: Color Play (ages 3 and up) from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy playful artmaking activities and self-guided gallery explorations in this special kids day out. All families are welcome to this drop-in program. Let them know if you plan to attend by RSVPing here.

Museum hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Closed Monday. For more information on OCMA exhibitions and events, visit https://ocma.art.

Get out and explore Buck Gully with three stunning hikes and assist with habitat restoration

Taking a trek in the Buck Gully Reserve, which connects Corona del Mar and Newport Coast, is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the warmer spring and summer weather. Explore this 300-acre natural habitat on foot, with three hikes led by the Irvine Ranch Conservancy staff and an opportunity to assist in habitat restoration.

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Photos by Emily Spain

Several bridges provide vantage points for taking in reserve vistas

–Buck Gully Loop Hike: Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system on Tuesdays, June 20, July 18 and Sept. 19 and from 8-11:30 a.m. Beginning from the OASIS Senior Center, you’ll hike up through the almost three-mile length of the canyon, then along San Joaquin Hills Road for about a mile, stopping at Canyon Watch Park, where you will take in the panoramic view of the reserve and the Pacific coastline before descending back into the canyon along the Bobcat Trail. This hike is 6 miles; duration, 3.5 hours with high-moderate difficulty and conducted at a walking pace, approximately three miles per hour. It is geared to those 12+ years of age. This hike is free, but registration is required. Meet at the OASIS Senior Center auxiliary lot at 5th and Marguerite in Corona del Mar. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

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The stream is running, making for a memorable late afternoon/early evening hike

–Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hikes: Explore the richness of Buck Gully Reserve as you hike during the beautiful early evening hours on Tuesdays, July 25 and Aug. 22 and Saturday, June 10 from 4-6:30 p.m. The stream is running, and the rich plant and animal life are enjoying the cool, shady canyon making for an evening hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings. Walk along San Joaquin Hills Road, which overlooks Buck Gully for the first mile, then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail, looping back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail. This activity is conducted at a walking pace, approximately 3 miles per hour. The distance is 4 miles; duration, 2.5 hours with moderate difficulty. This hike is open to those 8 years and older. This hike is free, but registration is required. Staging area is the Newport Coast Community Center at 6401 San Joaquin Hills Road. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

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Enjoy panoramic views as you take in the canyon’s natural beauty

–Bridges of Buck Gully Hike: Buck Gully is a natural, coastal canyon which opened up to the public in 2012 with the installation of four bridges to allow for safe public access. Discover the bridges on Tuesdays, Aug. 8 and Sept. 5 from 8-11:30 a.m., which facilitate exploration of the Buck Gully Reserve, and also provide viewing platforms from which to pause and observe the abundant life in and around the stream. The guided program starts with a short walk from the OASIS Senior Center to the beginning of the Buck Gully trail, offering a visually dramatic entrance into this special canyon. Open to those 12 years and older. Conducted at a walking pace at approximately 3 miles per hour. Distance is 5 miles; duration is 3.5 hours with moderate difficulty. This hike is free, but registration is required. Meet at the OASIS Senior Center auxiliary lot at 5th and Marguerite in Corona del Mar. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

–Fourth Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully on Fridays, June 23, July 28, Aug. 25 and Sept. 22. Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like planting native plants or removing non-native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Buck Gully. Come help with a variety of activities ranging from seed collection to weeding invasive plants. This activity takes place on sloped terrain and sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. All training, tools and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Rattlesnakes are occasionally seen here and generally avoid people, but protective gear will be provided. Walking pace is approximately 3 mph with a distance of one to five miles and a duration of three hours. The difficulty is moderate. This is geared to 18 years+. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

Get out and explore Buck Gully with three stunning hikes and assist with habitat restoration

Taking a trek in the Buck Gully Reserve, which connects Corona del Mar and Newport Coast, is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the warmer spring and summer weather. Explore this 300-acre natural habitat on foot, with three hikes led by the Irvine Ranch Conservancy staff and an opportunity to assist in habitat restoration.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photos by Emily Spain

Several bridges provide vantage points for taking in reserve vistas

–Buck Gully Loop Hike: Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system on Tuesdays, July 18 and Sept. 19 and from 8-11:30 a.m. Beginning from the OASIS Senior Center, you’ll hike up through the almost three-mile length of the canyon, then along San Joaquin Hills Road for about a mile, stopping at Canyon Watch Park, where you will take in the panoramic view of the reserve and the Pacific coastline before descending back into the canyon along the Bobcat Trail. This hike is 6 miles; duration, 3.5 hours with high-moderate difficulty and conducted at a walking pace, approximately three miles per hour. It is geared to those 12+ years of age. This hike is free, but registration is required. Meet at the OASIS Senior Center auxiliary lot at 5th and Marguerite in Corona del Mar. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

Click on photo for a larger image

The stream is running, making for a memorable late afternoon/early evening hike

–Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hikes: Explore the richness of Buck Gully Reserve as you hike during the beautiful early evening hours on Tuesdays, July 25 and Aug. 22 and Saturday, June 10 from 4-6:30 p.m. The stream is running, and the rich plant and animal life are enjoying the cool, shady canyon making for an evening hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings. Walk along San Joaquin Hills Road, which overlooks Buck Gully for the first mile, then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail, looping back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail. This activity is conducted at a walking pace, approximately 3 miles per hour. The distance is 4 miles; duration, 2.5 hours with moderate difficulty. This hike is open to those 8 years and older. This hike is free, but registration is required. Staging area is the Newport Coast Community Center at 6401 San Joaquin Hills Road. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

Click on photo for a larger image

Enjoy panoramic views as you take in the canyon’s natural beauty

–Bridges of Buck Gully Hike: Buck Gully is a natural, coastal canyon which opened up to the public in 2012 with the installation of four bridges to allow for safe public access. Discover the bridges on Tuesdays, Aug. 8 and Sept. 5 from 8-11:30 a.m., which facilitate exploration of the Buck Gully Reserve, and also provide viewing platforms from which to pause and observe the abundant life in and around the stream. The guided program starts with a short walk from the OASIS Senior Center to the beginning of the Buck Gully trail, offering a visually dramatic entrance into this special canyon. Open to those 12 years and older. Conducted at a walking pace at approximately 3 miles per hour. Distance is 5 miles; duration is 3.5 hours with moderate difficulty. This hike is free, but registration is required. Meet at the OASIS Senior Center auxiliary lot at 5th and Marguerite in Corona del Mar. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

–Fourth Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully on Fridays, June 23, July 28, Aug. 25 and Sept. 22. Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like planting native plants or removing non-native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Buck Gully. Come help with a variety of activities ranging from seed collection to weeding invasive plants. This activity takes place on sloped terrain and sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. All training, tools and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Rattlesnakes are occasionally seen here and generally avoid people, but protective gear will be provided. Walking pace is approximately 3 mph with a distance of one to five miles and a duration of three hours. The difficulty is moderate. This is geared to 18 years+. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

Newport Beach Public Library’s Summer Reading Program runs through July 29

The Newport Beach Public Library rolled out its Summer Reading Program on Saturday, June 10. Children through 6th grade can participate in the Children’s Summer Reading Program.

Here’s how to get started:

Participants register on Beanstack by clicking here and keep track of their reading and activities to earn digital badges and prizes. Once you have registered on Beanstack, pick up your free paperback book at any library location! Complete the program for a chance to win the grand prize!

Photos courtesy of LBPL

Participants in the Summer Reading Program have a chance to win the grand prize

Kids can also write or draw book reviews throughout the summer. Each submitted book review will be entered into weekly prize drawings.

Head over to the Newport Beach Public Library’s Mariners Branch locations as they kick off their annual Summer Reading Program on Saturday, June 17 at 11 a.m.

Michael Rayner, Comedian Juggler

Join in the combination of hilarious tricks and stunts with uproarious stand-up comedy for kids. Rayner’s show has been described as “preposterous brilliance” and “wacky jugglement.”

–CdM, Monday, June 19 at 3 p.m.

–Central, Tuesday, June 20 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 21 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, June 24 at 11 a.m.

Click on photo for a larger image

Get creative with words and crafts

Crafts: Find Your Voice With Words

There are so many ways to use words to express our unique selves. Make a journal, create word art, write your name in new and fun ways. Join the library to get crafty with words.

–CdM, Monday, June 26 at 3 p.m.

–Central, Tuesday, June 27 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 28 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, July 1 at 11 a.m.

Kyle Tiernan, Draw Along Art

Learn to draw with Kyle Tiernan. Participants will follow along and complete three fun illustrations to take home in this engaging art program for children. All supplies are provided.

Click on photo for a larger image

You can read a book anywhere, even on the stairs

Summer Reading Program events are generously funded by the Friends of the Library. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all events. Space is first come, first seated and limited by room capacity. Materials are available while supplies last. More information can be found at www.newportkids.org.

Newport Beach Public Library’s Summer Reading Program runs through July 29

The Newport Beach Public Library rolled out its Summer Reading Program on Saturday, June 10. Children through 6th grade can participate in the Children’s Summer Reading Program.

Here’s how to get started:

Participants register on Beanstack by clicking here and keep track of their reading and activities to earn digital badges and prizes. Once you have registered on Beanstack, pick up your free paperback book at any library location! Complete the program for a chance to win the grand prize!

Photos courtesy of LBPL

Participants in the Summer Reading Program have a chance to win the grand prize

Kids can also write or draw book reviews throughout the summer. Each submitted book review will be entered into weekly prize drawings.

Michael Rayner, Comedian Juggler

Join in the combination of hilarious tricks and stunts with uproarious stand-up comedy for kids. Rayner’s show has been described as “preposterous brilliance” and “wacky jugglement.”

–Central, Tuesday, June 20 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 21 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, June 24 at 11 a.m.

Click on photo for a larger image

Get creative with words and crafts

Crafts: Find Your Voice With Words

There are so many ways to use words to express our unique selves. Make a journal, create word art, write your name in new and fun ways. Join the library to get crafty with words.

–CdM, Monday, June 26 at 3 p.m.

–Central, Tuesday, June 27 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 28 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, July 1 at 11 a.m.

Kyle Tiernan, Draw Along Art

Learn to draw with Kyle Tiernan. Participants will follow along and complete three fun illustrations to take home in this engaging art program for children. All supplies are provided.

Click on photo for a larger image

You can read a book anywhere, even on the stairs

Summer Reading Program events are generously funded by the Friends of the Library. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all events. Space is first come, first seated and limited by room capacity. Materials are available while supplies last. More information can be found at www.newportkids.org.

Newport Beach Public Library’s Summer Reading Program continues through July 29

The Newport Beach Public Library rolled out its Summer Reading Program on Saturday, June 10. Children through 6th grade can participate in the Children’s Summer Reading Program.

Here’s how to get started:

Participants register on Beanstack by clicking here and keep track of their reading and activities to earn digital badges and prizes. Once you have registered on Beanstack, pick up your free paperback book at any library location! Complete the program for a chance to win the grand prize!

Photos courtesy of LBPL

Participants in the Summer Reading Program have a chance to win the grand prize

Kids can also write or draw book reviews throughout the summer. Each submitted book review will be entered into weekly prize drawings.

Michael Rayner, Comedian Juggler

Join in the combination of hilarious tricks and stunts with uproarious stand-up comedy for kids. Rayner’s show has been described as “preposterous brilliance” and “wacky jugglement.” He will be at the Mariners Library Branch on Saturday, June 24 at 11 a.m.

Click on photo for a larger image

Get creative with words and crafts

Crafts: Find Your Voice With Words

There are so many ways to use words to express our unique selves. Make a journal, create word art, write your name in new and fun ways. Join the library to get crafty with words.

–CdM, Monday, June 26 at 3 p.m.

–Central, Tuesday, June 27 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 28 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, July 1 at 11 a.m.

Kyle Tiernan, Draw Along Art

Learn to draw with Kyle Tiernan. Participants will follow along and complete three fun illustrations to take home in this engaging art program for children. All supplies are provided.

Click on photo for a larger image

You can read a book anywhere, even on the stairs

Summer Reading Program events are generously funded by the Friends of the Library. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all events. Space is first come, first seated and limited by room capacity. Materials are available while supplies last. More information can be found at www.newportkids.org.

James MacMillan’s Fiat Lux receives long-awaited world premiere with Pacific Symphony and Pacific Chorale led by Carl St.Clair

For the final concert of the 2022-23 Hal and Jeanette Segerstrom Family Foundation Classical Series, Music Director Carl St.Clair transforms the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall’s stunning acoustics into a “Cathedral of Sound” (June 15-17) in a program that spans five centuries and celebrates spirituality. The mystical Miserere mei, Deus by the Renaissance composer Gregorio Allegri was so popular, the Vatican forbade it to be published (though a 14-year-old Mozart secretly transcribed it, having heard it just once). Pacific Chorale Artistic Director Robert Istad conducts the Chorale singing the Miserere a cappella. Then, St.Clair leads Richard Strauss’ eternal tone poem followed by the long-awaited Fiat Lux by Sir James MacMillan, whose moving music draws on his faith and heritage.

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^®HansvanderWoerd/Courtesy of Pacific Symphony

“Fiat Lux” Composer Sir James MacMillan

The world premiere performances and commissioning of MacMillan’s Fiat Lux were made possible by a generous grant from Howard and Roberta Ahmanson. The concert is generously sponsored by Fieldstead and Company and the National Endowment for the Arts. PBS SoCal, Classical California KUSC, and Avenue of the Arts Hotel provide additional sponsorship.

Considered the pre-eminent Scottish composer of his generation, Sir James MacMillan has been hailed by The New York Times as “ceaselessly inventive, evocative and penetrating.” Scheduled for previous seasons, but canceled due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, MacMillan’s Fiat Lux premieres with soprano Elissa Johnston, baritone Christopher Maltman, organist David Ball, Pacific Chorale and Pacific Symphony led by Carl St.Clair.

The large-scale work is based on a poem by Dana Gioia, a California poet laureate and former chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, and also incorporates Latin biblical texts. Approximately 30 minutes long, Fiat Lux is a single through-composed movement made up of five sections: “In the Beginning,” “Chorus,” “Litany of Light,” “Light of the World” and “Hymn: Cathedral of Light.”

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^®HansvanderWoerd/Courtesy of Pacific Symphony

Pacific Chorale and Pacific Symphony will be led by Music Director Carl St.Clair

According to St.Clair, “It is with utmost anticipation that I look forward to conducting the premiere of Sir James MacMillan’s Fiat Lux, when we will all experience not only his beautiful score, but the voices of the Pacific Chorale and the glorious sounds of the William J. Gillespie Concert Organ. Performing this incredible music for the grand finale of the 2022-23 season will be a joyous occasion, one not to be missed.”

Tickets start at $30. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 714.755.5799, or visit www.pacificsymphony.org.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. For more information, visit www.scfta.org.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts presents “An Evening with Brian Stokes Mitchell”

Segerstrom Center for the Arts presents Broadway’s Brian Stokes Mitchell for one night only on Friday, June 23 at 8 p.m. in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. A two-time Tony Award-winner, Mitchell has been called Broadway’s “last leading man” by The New York Times, will perform a wide range of songs, including fan favorites from both the American songbook and Broadway.

Mitchell has enjoyed a career that spans Broadway, television, film and concert appearances with the country’s finest conductors and orchestras. An extremely versatile and in-demand singer, Stokes has performed at many venues spanning the jazz, opera, pop, country and musical theater worlds.

He has received Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle awards for his star turn in Kiss Me, Kate. He also gave Tony-nominated performances in Man of La Mancha, August Wilson’s King Hedley II and Ragtime. Other notable Broadway shows include Kiss of the Spider Woman, Jelly’s Last Jam, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown and most recently, Shuffle Along.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of scfta.org

Brian Stokes Mitchell

Off-Broadway appearances includes Do Re Mi, Carnival, Kismet and The Bandwagon at City Center Encores and Much Ado About Nothing at the Delacorte Theatre’s Shakespeare in the Park.  Regional engagements include Sweeney Todd at the Sondheim Celebration at the Kennedy Center with Christine Baranski and The Light in the Piazza at Los Angeles Opera with Renee Fleming.

An extremely versatile singer, Stokes has performed with John Williams, Gustavo Dudamel, Marvin Hamlisch, Keith Lockhart, Michael Tilson Thomas, Leonard Slatkin, Bobby McFerrin, Dianne Reeves, The Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Big Band, The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and The Muppets. He has made multiple appearances at Carnegie Hall beginning with his debut with the San Francisco Symphony through his televised performance in South Pacific opposite Reba McEntire to his sold-out solo concert, which he continues to perform throughout the U.S. Venues he has appeared at include Walt Disney Concert Hall, Tanglewood, Ravinia, The Hollywood Bowl, Radio City Music Hall, Boston’s Symphony Hall, Lincoln Center and the Kennedy Center. He has twice been invited to perform at the White House and has sung for Presidents Clinton and Obama.

Stokes’ charitable work is extensive. Since his 20s, he has enjoyed working with multiple organizations beginning with tours for the USO and also The March of Dimes. He received his most recent Tony Award in 2016 for his work as chairman of the board of the Entertainment Community Fund (formerly The Actor’s Fund), a position he has continuously held since 2004. He is also on the board and Artist Committee of Americans for the Arts and is a founding member of Black Theatre United. He is a tireless advocate for both artists and the importance of the arts in a healthy society. This year, the City of New York honored his contributions to charity and the arts by awarding him with the Key to the city.

As a writer, Stokes has contributed to the book Hirschfeld’s Harlem, wrote the preface to At This Theatre and co-authored the children’s book, Lights on Broadway. For fun, he has been known to fly planes and jump out of them (usually not at the same time), and he can ride a bicycle on a high wire. Stokes resides in New York City.

Tickets, which start at $39, are available at www.scfta.org, by phone at 714.556.2787, or at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. For group ticket discounts for 10 or more, call 714.755.0236.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. For more information, visit www.scfta.org.

Orange County Museum of Art announces solo exhibition of Yu Ji: A Guest, A Host, A Ghost

The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) announced details of Yu Ji: A Guest, A Host, A Ghost, the first U.S. museum solo exhibition by Chinese artist Yu Ji. The exhibition invites visitors to think about the intricate relationship between our bodies and the ever-changing environment that surrounds us. Fluctuating between ruin and relic, the installation recalls both urban construction and ancient statuary, embodying the delicate balance between the natural and the built, the living and the inert.

“We are thrilled to present A Guest, A Host, A Ghost, Yu Ji’s first solo exhibition in the United States. Since opening our new building in October, OMCA has welcomed almost 200,000 visitors, and it is our great privilege to share the work of remarkable artistic voices like Yu Ji with as many people as possible. Her moving investigation into the interconnectivity of things –   mind, body, spirit, nature and humanity – is revelatory, and it is particularly exciting to see her work installed in direct dialogue with the singular exhibition architecture at OCMA,” said Heidi Zuckerman, CEO and director, Orange County Museum of Art.

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Photos courtesy of OCMA

(L-R) Yu Ji, “Half Peel Half Pulp III,” 2022. Lead. Commissioned by Audemars Piguet Contemporary. Courtesy the artist; Yu Ji, “Flesh in Stone #1,” 2012. Cement, iron. Courtesy the artist and Sadie Coles HQ Gallery.

Yu Ji (b. 1985, Shanghai, China) works across installation, sculpture, video and performance, harnessing architecture to reevaluate the powerful and complicated nature of the bonds between the human body and the constructed world. At the forefront of OCMA’s exhibition are the first 10 works in Ji’s ongoing series, Flesh in Stone (2012-ongoing), where different-sized concrete sculptures representing human forms are presented in fragments, parts of a larger whole. The bodily sculptures, supported by iron armatures, sometimes broken or entangled with rebar, capture the inescapable friction between the human body and the physical environment.

Alongside these intimate cement works, the exhibition includes three of her Refined Still Life lithographs (all 2020) – ghostly, fugitive images of Ji’s performance in landscapes printed onto curved plates of stainless steel. These fragmented and abstracted pieces seem to evoke both the past and a world still in the process of becoming. The exhibition itself is centered around two works commissioned by Audemars Piguet Contemporary – Protrude II (2022), a large frosted acrylic screen on which a video of water in motion is projected and Half Peel Half Pulp III (2022), a lead carpet formed into the organic shape of a wave. Harnessing the distinctive curved architecture of OCMA’s Mezzanine and Landing Galleries, A Guest, A Ghost, A Host extends Ji’s ongoing enquiry into the interconnectedness between the body, nature and the constructed environment, underscoring both its intimacy and immediacy.

Yu Ji: A Guest, A Host, A Ghost is organized by Courtenay Finn, chief curator with Ziying Duan, assistant curator.

The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) has a proven reputation as an innovative art museum with a history of discovering and actively engaging with living artists at pivotal points in their careers. The museum has organized and presented critically acclaimed exhibitions that have traveled nationally and internationally to more than 35 venues. The museum’s collection of more than 4,500 works of art includes important examples of modern and contemporary art and artists inspired by or working in California, including: John Baldessari, Chris Burden, Vija Celmins, Bruce Conner, Richard Diebenkorn, Robert Irwin, Catherine Opie, Charles Ray and Ed Ruscha. In October 2022, the museum opened in a new building designed by Morphosis on the campus of Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa.

For more information, go to www.ocma.art.

OCMA is located at 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa.

Free general admission is generously sponsored by Lugano Diamonds.

Fourth of July Old Glory Boat Parade to set sail at 1 p.m. off the east end of Lido Isle

The American Legion Yacht Club (ALYC) in Newport Beach is once again setting sail around Newport Harbor for their annual Old Glory Boat Parade on Tuesday, July 4 at 1 p.m.

The theme this year is “Founding Fathers” and entrants are encouraged to decorate their boats to celebrate this theme.

Leading the parade will be the ALYC club boat Valor with their Grand Marshal Newport Beach Chief of Police Joe Cartwright, followed by VIP boats that will be filled with active duty servicemembers and veterans.

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Photos courtesy of ALYC

Entrants are encouraged to decorate their boats to celebrate the “Founding Fathers” theme

They are pleased to recognize Chief Cartwright for his service to the community and his service to our county. Cartwright started his career with the Los Angeles Police Department in 1999, but would leave three years later for Newport Beach in 2002. He is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, a member of the American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291 and he currently is chairman on the board of directors for the Newport Beach 1st Battalion, 1st Marines Foundation.

The parade will begin at 1 p.m. off the east end of Lido Isle and follow a course throughout the harbor between the hours of 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., offering everyone a chance to enjoy the parade.

All boaters are invited to decorate their vessels and participate in the parade. Registration is free and available online through the American Legion Yacht Club website at www.alyc.com, where a map of the parade route, approximate viewing times and more information is also available. Participants will compete for class awards such as Best Decorated, Finest Costumes, Most Creative and the Commodore’s Award, with class winners to be announced at an awards banquet on Sunday, July 16 at 5:30 p.m.

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All boaters are invited to decorate their vessels and participate in the parade, and registration is free

“We are encouraging local boaters to join us for the parade,” said Commodore Stephen Alfano. “It’s a lot of fun, and a very fulfilling event to see the community appreciate the effort to decorate your boat and celebrate our nation’s independence in style. For the general public, we hope you include the parade as part of your day. It’s a can’t miss opportunity to celebrate with your friends and family.”

Celebrating almost 70 years, the Old Glory Parade began very casually in the 1950s as the Character Boat Parade and as the years passed, the Newport Harbor Chamber of Commerce took the helm, changed the theme and built her into a grand parade. Today, hailed as one of California’s largest longest-running patriotic boat parades, this annual happening is sponsored by the ALYC and is free to watch from most public beaches, docks and boardwalks throughout the scenic harbor area.

Visit www.alyc.com for more information.

Pet of the Week 

Stu News Newport is delighted to be working with the Newport Beach Animal Shelter to help get the word out in search of loving homes for pets that deserve a warm, nurturing environment and a place to call “home.”

The shelter is pleased to announce that Shadow, a 6-year-old domestic short-haired male cat, is now available for adoption. This charming feline is eagerly searching for a loving family to call his own. Shadow’s affectionate nature, love for cuddles and craving for attention make him the perfect companion for any cat lover. Shadow’s endearing personality has won the hearts of shelter staff and volunteers alike. His gentle demeanor and friendly disposition make him a joy to be around.

If you’re looking for a furry friend who will provide you with endless love and companionship, don’t miss the opportunity to meet Shadow. To schedule an appointment to meet him, contact the Newport Beach Animal Shelter by calling 949.718.3454, or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The shelter is open daily from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and appointments are required.

Courtesy of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter

Meet Shadow

The shelter does require completed application forms for their animals, so simply print one up from their non-profit’s webpage at www.fonbas.org. After it is completed, you can email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and upon review, they’ll call you to schedule an appointment. If you have any questions, call 949.718.3454.

Newport Beach Animal Shelter adoption fees:

–Adult Dogs - $150

–Puppies - $225

–Adult Cats - $90

–Kittens - $110

–Rabbits - $45

Also, consider becoming a member of an incredible nonprofit that supports the city’s efforts with providing wonderful opportunities to stray, injured, ill and owner-surrendered domestic pets.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts announces Dance, Headliner and In Conversation Series for the 2023-2024 Season

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is presenting an exceptional line-up of breathtaking dance performances, captivating headliner shows, and an engaging in conversation series that will leave audiences inspired and mesmerized. Back by popular demand, these series genres will be available on a season ticket basis. With both returning and new performances, these upcoming engagements are poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.

The Dance Series will consist of: Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Turn It Out with Tiler Peck, American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker, Alonzo King LINES Ballet | Les Ballets de Monte Carlo’s Coppél-i.A and The American Ballet Theatre Mixed Repertory.

–Sept. 16, 2023, Complexions Contemporary Ballet

The Dance Series kicks off with Complexions Contemporary Ballet, known for their groundbreaking choreography, pushing the boundaries of traditional dance forms and creating a mesmerizing experience for all.

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Photos courtesy of Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Jillian Davis and Keith Reeves of Complexions Contemporary Ballet

–Nov. 4-5, 2023, Turn It Out with Tiler Peck

Turn It Out with Tiler Peck will present who Vanity Fair calls “The most magical dancer of our time.” The principal dancer with New York City Ballet will dazzle audiences with her dynamic artistry and impeccable technique that has garnered her international acclaim.

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“Turn It Out” with Tiler Peck (on left)

–Dec. 8-17, 2023, American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker

American Ballet Theatre will present the beloved holiday classic The Nutcracker with their enchanting production that transport viewers to a world of magic and wonder through its exquisite choreography, lavish sets and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.

–Jan. 20, 2024, Alonzo King LINES Ballet

Alonzo King LINES Ballet returns with their renowned company that is sure to captivate audiences, taking them on a profound and transformative journey. Over the last two seasons, Center audiences have come under the spell of this contemporary dance company from San Francisco. They’ve been mesmerized as their remarkable and exquisite dancers seem to drip across the stage, creating lush, transcendent and captivating movements that are only possible with LINES.

–March 7-10, 2024, Les Ballets des Monte Carlo’s Coppél-i.A

Led by artistic director Jean-Christophe Maillot, Les Ballets de Monte Carlo’s Coppél-i.A will present this romantic piece with their unique blend of classical and contemporary ballet. Les Ballets de Monte Carlo is a classical ballet company established in 1985 by the Princess of Hanover in accordance with the wishes of her mother, Princess Grace, who wished to perpetuate the long tradition of dance in Monaco and its famous Ballets Russes. It is the official national company of the Principality of Monaco.

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Les Ballets de Monte Carlo

–April 11-14, 2024, ABT Mixed Repertory

American Ballet Theatre’s Mixed Repertory will feature an eclectic program highlighting the company’s extraordinary versatility and artistry. This showcase is a testament to the immense talent and creativity of American Ballet Theatre’s dancers and choreographers.

The Headliners Series includes: Get Happy: Jessica Vosk; Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Being Alive, and A Broadway Birthday! Sondheim, Lloyd Webber and Friends.

Segerstrom Center presents a fun line-up of headliners who will take the stage throughout the season.

–Sept. 29, 2023, Get Happy: Jessica Vosk

The 2023-2024 headliner series will commemorate the life and legacy of some of Broadway’s most iconic legends including Judy Garland in Get Happy: Jessica Vosk. Known for her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence, Jessica Vosk will take the stage to honor Garland’s timeless repertoire.

–Nov. 2, 2023, Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Being Alive

From Tony Award-winning songs to cherished classics, and even some of his own remarkable recordings, Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Being Alive promises an intimate and captivating experience, offering a glimpse into the soul of the Broadway icon.

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 “Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Being Alive”

–March 2, 2024, A Broadway Birthday! Sondheim, Lloyd Webber and Friends

Join them for a joyous celebration of two musical theater maestros, Stephen Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Webber in A Broadway Birthday! Sondheim, Lloyd Webber and Friends. This star-studded production will showcase a dazzling array of performances, featuring beloved songs from their iconic shows. From Phantom of the Opera to Sweeney Todd, and Cats to Into the Woods, this spectacular event will transport audiences into the heart of Broadway, highlighting the remarkable contributions of these legendary composers and their influential works.

The In Conversation Series features: Tara Westover, Amor Towles, Kristin Hannah and Michael Pollan.

The In Conversation Series returns this season, offering a unique opportunity to engage in captivating discussions with esteemed authors, delving into their literary journeys, creative processes and the power of storytelling.

–Sept. 20, 2023, Tara Westover

Join Tara Westover, author of the critically acclaimed memoir Educated, as she shares her inspiring story of self-discovery, the transformative power of education and the resilience of the human spirit.

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Tara Westover

–Nov. 6, 2023, Amor Towles

Known for his masterful storytelling and richly developed characters, Amor Towles will take the audience on a literary journey through his captivating narratives and explore the themes of love, friendship and the complexities of human relationships.

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Amor Towles

–Feb. 5, 2024, Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah, beloved author of compelling novels such as Firefly Lane and The Great Alone, will be welcomed back to her home of Orange County to share her insights into her powerful storytelling and her ability to create immersive and emotionally resonant worlds.

–April 29, 2024, Michael Pollan

Michael Pollan, acclaimed author of bestsellers like The Omnivore’s Dilemma and In Defense of Food, will conclude the series with his fascinating exploration of food, nature and the human connection to the natural world.

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Michael Pollan

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is an innovative, nonprofit arts organization committed to supporting artistic excellence, creating impactful educational programs, and dedicated to engaging a culturally connected, inclusive and vital Orange County community for all, through the power of live performance.

Subscriptions for the Dance, Headliner and In Conversation Series are available now. Tickets for individual performances will go on sale at a later date. Visit the Center’s website at www.scfta.org for more information. For group sales, call 714.755.0236.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costs Mesa.

South Coast Repertory announces 60th season

South Coast Repertory (SCR) Artistic Director David Ivers and Managing Director Paula Tomei announced its 60th season, with a line-up that ranges from an American classic to contemporary works, with two world premieres – including one musical – and a special offering featuring pianist and actor Hershey Felder.

“It’s thrilling to share the titles that are part of our milestone 60th season,” Ivers said. “No doubt, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find passionate and focused commitment to new work and a couple of re-imagined classics, including two penned by our early core playwrights – Octavio Solis and Craig Lucas. This is a transformative, adventurous, entertaining and diverse season.”

“Through 60 seasons, South Coast Repertory evolved from a storefront to the forefront of American theater. As Orange County grew from an agricultural community to one of the largest centers of commerce in the country, SCR developed along with it,” Tomei said. “We look forward to celebrating this milestone and the exciting work of the season with the community who continues to go on this wonderful and dynamic journey with us.”

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Courtesy of SCR

Hershey Felder as “George Gershwin Alone” coming Jan. 18-28, 2024

Sept. 30-Oct. 28: The 2023-24 season begins with Quixote Nuevo by SCR legacy playwright Octavio Solis on the Segerstrom Stage. This acclaimed modern adaptation of Miguel de Cervantes’ epic novel, Don Quixote de La Mancha is produced in association with Seattle Repertory Theatre and Portland Center Stage.

Oct. 22-Nov. 12: SCR kicks off the American Icons series with A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry’s masterpiece that propelled her into history as the first African-American woman to have a play produced on Broadway. Over the next several seasons, SCR’s American Icons series will celebrate the artists, personalities and figures who changed our world, starting with this celebrated work exploring issues of racism, assimilation and housing discrimination. It is performed on the Julianne Argyros Stage.

“This American classic gives us the perfect beginning to our new American Icons series, which celebrates individuals who shape and influence the foundations of America and American culture,” Ivers said. “Along with our season, it reinforces a vision to reflect the world back to our communities.”

Nov. 25-Dec. 24: A Christmas Carol, Orange County’s holiday tradition, returns for its 43rd season with SCR Founding Member Richard Doyle once again picking up the top hat and red scarf as Ebenezer Scrooge. Hisa Takakuwa returns to direct.

Jan. 18-28, 2024: The new year starts with a special offering featuring pianist/actor/playwright/producer Felder for a limited engagement of Hershey Felder as George Gershwin Alone on the Julianne Argyros Stage. Gershwin, the legendary composer of hundreds of iconic American standards, comes to life onstage in a theatrical performance declared, “‘S Wonderful, ‘S Marvelous!” by The Washington Post, “Sheer joy” by the San Francisco Chronicle and “Glorious. Poignant, moving and fascinating” by USA TODAY.

Feb. 10-25, 2024: SCR’s popular Theatre for Young Audiences and Families series continues in February with Alice’s Wonderland, book, music and lyrics by Julia Riew and J. Quinton Johnson, and conceived by Linda Chichester and David Coffman.

April 5-May 4, 2024: The spring brings two world premieres, starting with Prelude to a Kiss, The Musical. Originally written by Craig Lucas as a play, Prelude to a Kiss had its world premiere at SCR in 1988, before going on to win a Tony Award on Broadway and becoming a motion picture.

April 21-May 12, 2024: To be announced.

May 3-5, 2024: The annual showcase of new plays, part of The Lab@SCR.

July 20-Aug. 11, 2024: Finally, Outside SCR for a fourth summer of theater under the stars at the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano with Little Shop of Horrors, book and lyrics by Howard Ashman, music by Alan Menken and based on the film by Roger Corman, with screenplay by Charles Griffith. The cult-classic musical about a down-on-his-luck florist who stumbles across a strange and interesting new plant with an unquenchable thirst for human blood finds the perfect setting amid the stunning flora of The Mission.

Subscriptions for the 2023-24 season are now on sale. Subscribers may also purchase A Christmas Carol and Hershey Felder as George Gershwin Alone at this time. Individual tickets for Quixote Nuevo, A Raisin in the Sun, Alice’s Wonderland, Prelude to a Kiss, The Musical and the world premiere to be announced go on sale June 15. Tickets for A Christmas Carol, Hershey Felder as George Gershwin Alone and Little Shop of Horrors go on sale to the general public on August 7.

For tickets, go to www.scr.org.

South Coast Repertory is located at 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa.

Chamber to host luncheon to bring together county leaders for discussion at Balboa Bay Resort

The Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce will present the Inaugural State of the County Luncheon on Wednesday, July 19 at the Balboa Bay Resort from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. The program is designed to bring together Orange County elected officials, public sector employees, businesspeople and residents to explore the past, current and future state of the county.

A panel featuring OC Board of Supervisors Chairman of the Board Don Wagner, OC 5th District Supervisor Katrina Foley and Frank Kim Orange County CEO will be present.

The event is open to the public. Single tickets are $75, with table sponsorships of 10 at $1,000, which includes program recognition and more.

Sponsorships for the day are available by contacting Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Steve Rosansky at 949.729.4404.

For more information and reservations go here.

Orange County Museum of Art reveals details of large survey of Artist Alice Neel

The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) announced details of Feels Like Home, a large survey exhibition that examines the role of kinship, chosen family and the importance of community within the work of Alice Neel (b. 1900, Gladwyne, PA; d. 1984, New York, NY), one of the foremost American figurative painters of the 20th century. On view from June 23 through October 22, the exhibition includes a selection of more than 40 works, many from the Estate’s collection. Spanning the decades of the 1930s to the 1980s, the exhibition focuses on Neel’s honest, private and astute chronicles of the everyday details of her time.

“Alice Neel’s ability to capture intimacy and emotion is unparalleled. Whether she renders ordinary occurrences of daily life – from two nuns walking arm in arm in the park to people gathered in a movie theater lobby – or intimate personal moments with her friends, family, lovers and neighbors – Neel’s pictures convey a sense of immediacy and intensity. We are thrilled to present this rich and moving selection of work which brings the idea of family and connection to the fore,” said Heidi Zuckerman, CEO and director of the Orange County Museum of Art.

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All images ©The Estate of Alice Neel

Courtesy of The Estate of Alice Neel and David Zwirne 

(L-R) Alice Neel, “Julie and Aristotle,” 1967. Oil on canvas, 69 3/4” x 36 1/8”. Worcester Art Museum, Worcester, Mass., Stoddard Acquisition Fund, 2010.316; Alice Neel, “Ian and Mary,” 1971. Oil on canvas, 46” x 50”. Private collection; Alice Neel, “Sunset, Riverside Drive,” 1957. Oil on canvas, 50 1/8” x 25 3/4”. Private collection.

Born in 1900, Neel’s life ran nearly concurrent with the major events of the 20th century, and many of the world’s defining events – from the Great Depression to the civil rights and women’s movements, to gay liberation – impacted her and her artistic practice deeply. A mother of four, the difficulties and pleasures of motherhood – a combination of joy, loss, tragedy, and love – permeated her life, and through it all she painted the people around her: her friends, fellow artists, neighbors, her children, their pets, and from there, their partners, friends and children. Her home, which also served as her studio, was always full of people, and she was deeply impacted by the company she kept.

When the art world was focused on abstraction, Neel remained resolutely committed to the representation of the human figure. Captured through bold outlines, expressive brushwork, and an imaginative use of color, Neel’s paintings reveal her profound fascination with life, depicting the world around her with compassion and candor. Her pictures, whether capturing the sense of empathy and understanding felt so deeply in our relationships with our non-human kin as in Julie and Aristotle (1967) or the ways bodies reveal the hardships and emotional narratives of our lives as in Mr. Greene’s Hands (1946), bear witness and reflect an era of incredible change and upheaval.

“Alice Neel’s work reminds us that humans are imperfect, offering a poignant truthfulness about what relationships and emotions really look like. Neel herself would say that she was merely following the lead of her subjects, but within each painting her own presence can be felt, the emotional tenor of the relationship with the sitter, landscape, or scene reverberating outward,” said Courtenay Finn, Chief Curator OCMA and Curator of Feels Like Home. “Her work captures her own declaration that, ‘I paint to try to reveal the struggle, tragedy and joy of life.’”

Painting was a lifeline for Neel – a form of personal connection and a way to reach out into the world and connect with the people around her. Within it she found a sense of belonging, creating new forms of kinship and ultimately forging her own kind of home. She herself once wrote, “No matter what the rules are, when one is painting, one creates one’s own world.”

Feels Like Home is organized by the Orange County Museum of Art and curated by Courtenay Finn, OCMA chief curator.

For more information, go to www.ocma.art.

OCMA is located at 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa.

Free general admission is generously sponsored by Lugano Diamonds.

Regattas and Races…

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Photo by Bronny Daniels | Joysailing.com

2023 Twilight Series – June Series

Balboa Yacht Club

Wednesday, June 14

H20 A Fleet (6 races scored)

1 Blue Skies, G. Thorne/K. Thorne, 1-1-1-1-1-2=7

2 Checkers, G. Newman, BYC, 4-4-4-2-2-1=17

3 Dragon Lady, Ed Kimball, ALYC, 2-2-2-4-4-4=18

H20 B Fleet (6 races scored)

1 Jubilee, Kincaid/Devlin, BCYC, 1-2-1-1-1-1=7

2 Simpatica, Kimme/Carlson, BYC, 2-1-2-3-3-3=14

H20 C Fleet (6 races scored)

1 Adios, P. Bretschger/K. Bretschger, BYC, 3-4-2-1-3-1=14

2 Lucky Puff, Robertson/Cannon, BYC, 1-1-4-4-4-4=18

3 Aquanesia, Wyatt/Haynes, BYC, 2-2-1-5-5-5=20

4 Friday, P. Zorayan/T. Zorayan, LIYC, 6-5-5-3-2-3=24

5 n/a, J. Jackman, n/a, 8-8-8-2-1-2=29

6 Rhapsody, M. Mueller/L. Mueller, BYC, 4-3-3-8-8-8=34

7 Spiritus, Grable/Gibson/Vorona, BYC, 5-6-6-8-8-8=41

Thistle Fleet (4 races scored)

1 Larzelere/McDaniel, BYC, 3-1-1-1=6

2 White/Meyer, BCYC/LMVYC, 1-2-5-5=13

3 R. Maxwell/M. Maxwell, BYC, 5-5-2-2=14

4 Chuck Simmons, BYC, 2-3-5-5=15

ILCA Fleet (4 races scored)

1 R. Vandervort, BYC, 6-3-2-3=14

2 B. Hemphill, BYC, 3-4-5-2=14

3 R. Luttrell, BYC, 4-5-3-5=17

4 M. Bonsager, BYC, 8-8-1-1=18

5 A. Andrews, BYC, 1-1-8-8=18

6 M. Arrigo, NHYC, 2-2-8-8=20

7 P. Arrigo, BYC/NHYC, 8-8-4-4=24

Lido 14 A Fleet (4 races scored)

1 Papadopoulos/Corsi, WSAOC, 1-1-1-2=5

2 K. McRae/Gorski/Ja. McRae/Jo. McRae, ABYC, 2-3-3-3=11

3 T. Lange/S. Mulcaire, ALYC, 5-5-2-1=13

4 Boudreaux/Quinn, BYC, 3-2-5-5=15

Lido 14 B Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Waniak/Cain, BYC, 1-1=2

2 R. Long/Swan, BYC, 3-3=6

Adult Sabot A Fleet (4 races scored)

1 M. Lynch, BYC, 1-1-1-1=4

2 K. Luttrell, BYC, 2-5-3-4=14

3 L. Acosta, DPYC, 10-6-2-3=21

4 S. Jennings, BYC/NHYC, 5-7-7-5=24

5 L. Ungerland, BYC, 7-9-6-6=28

6 M. Bartell, BYC, 3-2-13-13=31

7 L. Coon, MBYC, 13-13-4-2=32

8 E. Foy, BYC, 4-3-13-13=33

9 D. Bartell, BYC, 8-4-13-13=38

10 D. Allison, BYC, 13-13-5-7=38

11 D. Allison, BYC, 6-8-13-13=40

12 G. Kalscheur, BYC, 9-10-13-13=45

Adult Sabot B Fleet (4 races scored)

1 C. Harmon, BYC, 1-1-1-4=7

2 K. Stockman, BYC, 4-2-4-1=11

3 S. Ware, SSC, 2-3-5-2=12

4 S. Cannon, BYC, 3-4-2-3=12

5 T. Power, BYC, 7-7-3-5=22

6 S. Lindsey, BYC, 7-7-6-7=27

Opti Fleet (2 races scored)

1 C. Lorentzen, BYC, 1-1=2

2 Z. Whitton, BYC, 3-2=5

3 T. Goodman, BYC, 5-5=10

3 W. Ramsay, BYC, 5-5=10

Junior Sabot Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Z. Whitton, BYC, 1-1=2

2 Jack Swartzbaugh, BYC, 5-5=10

2 Heidi Swartzbaugh, BYC, 5-5=10

2 Lin Zhou, SSC, 5-5=10

BCYC Taco Tuesday Series

Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club

Tuesday, June 13

PHRF A Fleet (4.1-mile course)

1 Legacy, Brian Dougherty, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:43:41, Corrected Time 0:37:24

2 XLR8, Gabriel Nistor, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:47:40, Corrected Time 0:41:02

3 Table 9, Tyler Wolk, BYC

   Elapsed Time 0:46:01, Corrected Time 0:42:28

4 Destroyer, Jim Bailey, NHYC

   Elapsed Time ##########

PHRF B Fleet (3.1-mile course)

1 Kaizen, David Camerini, WSA-OC

   Elapsed Time 0:42:03, Corrected Time 0:35:01

2 Violetta, Jane Hartley, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:40:53, Corrected Time 0:35:09

3 Rhythm, Roger Gooding, SBYRC

   Elapsed Time 0:41:52, Corrected Time 0:35:59

4 Buena Vista, Berkley Greene, ALYC

   Elapsed Time 0:44:02, Corrected Time 0:36:57

5 Shadow, Steve Fink, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:44:33, Corrected Time 0:38:02

6 Healer, Larry Kliger, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:44:47, Corrected Time 0:39:00

7 Ventus, Team BCYC, BCYC

   Elapsed Time ##########

7 Miss Informed, Jeff Tighe, BYC

   Elapsed Time ##########

7 Lickity Split, Andrew Whittingham, WSAOC

   Elapsed Time ##########

7 Man O’War, James Malm, NHYC

   Elapsed Time ##########

PHRF C Fleet (2.5-mile course)

1 Halcyon II, B. Kafka, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:38:23, Corrected Time 0:29:08

2 Celia, J. Oconnor, ALYC

   Elapsed Time 0:42:25, Corrected Time 0:33:28

3 Bella Rose, R. Henigman, ALYC

   Elapsed Time 0:47:01, Corrected Time 0:37:46

H20A Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Shana’s Secret, Thompson/Conzelman, BCYC, 1-1=2

2 Summer Dream, Cheadle/Schupak, BYC, 2-2=4

3 Only Child, L. Bose/J. Bose, BCYC, 4-3=7

4 D’Art, A. Deermount, NHYC, 3-4=7

5 12, Robert McDonald, NHYC, 5-5=10

5 Dragon Lady, E. Kimball, LIYC, 5-5=10

5 Jubilee, Yates/Kincaid, NHYC, 5-5=10

H20B Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Jubilee, Yates/Kincaid, NHYC, 2-1=3

2 Whim, C. Welsh, NHYC, 1-2=3

3 Dragon Lady, E. Kimball, LIYC, 3-3=6

4 Whatever, Hurlimann/Fischbacher, WSO, 4-4=8

5 Tiger, J. Bubb/M. Wiley, NHYC, 5-5=10

6 Isaac, P. Killian/C. Killian, BYC, 7-6=13

6 Chloe, Campbell/Stratman, BYC, 7-6=13

6 Mili’Apa, Watanabe/Sutherland, UCISA, 7-6=13

6 Spirit, D. Haynes/P. Haynes, BCYC, 7-6=13

H20C Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Symbo, B. Symes/LL Symes, NHYC, 1-1=2

2 Ocho, Turner/Wiese, NHYC, 2-2=4 

3 Kalani II, Ibbetson/Thornton, SYC, 5-3=8

4 Painfully Dry, Diercksmeier/Cohen, NHYC, 4-4=8

5 Shazam, Alfano/Shinrock, ALYC, 3-6=9

6 No Name, P. Zorayan/T. Zorayan, LIYC, 6-5=11

7 Adios, P. Bretschger/K. Bretschger, BYC, 7-7=14 

7 Adreneline, E. Foy/P. Noring, BYC, 7-4=14

7 Amazing Grace, J. Weightman/L. Mark, BYC, 7-7=14

7 Aquanesia, Wyatt/Moosman, BYC, 7-7=14

7 Cool H20, George Hampton, BCYC, 7-7=14

7 Dragon Lady, Sangster/Kimball, LIYC, 7-7=14

7 Rascal II, Bacon/Wyatt, BCYC, 7-7=14

ALYC Sundowner Series

American Legion Yacht Club

Monday, June 12

H20B (6 races scored)

1 Jublilee, Patrick Kincaid, 1-1-1-1-1-1=6

2 Spirit, Debra Haynes, 2-3-2-2-2-2=13

3 Summer Dream, Tucker Cheadle, 2-2-2-2-3-3=14

H20C (6 races scored)

1 Whim, Hubie Laugharn, 1-4-2-2-1-2=12

2 Friday, Puzant Zorayan, 3-2-5-1-3-1=15

3 Shazam, Stephen Alfano, 2-1-4-3-4-3=17

4 Hula Girl, Derek Matheson, 4-4-1-4-2-4=19 

5 Dragon Lady, Kathy Sangster, 4-4-3-4-5-6=26

6 Flexi Flyer, Heidi Hall, 4-4-6-4-5-5=28

7 Breezyracer, William “Bill” Schneider, 4-4-6-4-5-6=29T

7 Amazing Grace, Judy Weightman, 4-4-6-4-5-6=29T

J22 (6 races scored)

1 Chol, Min Choi, 2-1-1-3-1-1=9

2 Pinckney, Gale Pinckney, 1-3-3-1-2-4=14

3 Dromgoole, Glen Dromgoole, 3-2-2-4-2-2=15

4 Boulton, Alex Boulton, 4-3-3-2-2-4=18

5 Bents, Robert Bents, 4-3-3-4-2-3=19

PHRF A (6 races scored)

1 XLR8, Gabriel Nistor, 5-1-1-1-2-1=11

2 Kaizen, David Camerini, 1-2-2-2-3-2=12

3 Violetta, Jane Hartley, 3-3-3-3-1-6=19

4 Stella Maris, Ted Barry, 2-5-4-5-5-3=24

5 Boat Snack, Randall Newcomb, 4-4-5-6-4-5=28

6 Tikehau, Paul Prioleau, 5-5-6-4-6-4=30

7 dart, Michael Darr, 5-5-6-7-6-6=35

PHRF B (6 races scored)

1 Carioca, Bob Wine, 2-1-2-1-1-2=9

2 Buena Vista, Berkeley Green, 3-2-3-3-4-1=16

3 Hobo Flats, Louis Chappelear, 5-3-1-2-3-3=17

4 HOLOKAI, Ross & Bonnie McElfresh, 4-6-4-4-2-5=25

5 Horsefeathers, John Fuller, 1-6-5-6-6-5=29T

6 Stanley’s Cup, Stanley (Bill) Tutton, 6-4-5-5-5-4=29T

7 Rag Jag, David Rainville, 6-6-5-6-6-5=34

PHRF C (6 races scored)

1 CELIA, Jim O’Connor, 2-1-1-1-1-1=7

2 Mystery, Barbara Kelley, 4-2-2-2-2-2=14

3 Que Sera Sera, Rick Hancock, 1-5-3-4-3-3=19

4 No Ka Oi, Lori Romano, 3-5-4-3-3-3=21

News relating to racing in or around Newport Harbor should be forwarded to Tom Johnson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Celebrate California State Parks Week at Crystal Cove with planned weekend events

California State Parks Week has arrived at Crystal Cove State Park, taking place June 14-18. California State Parks Week is an annual event that celebrates the amazing diversity of California’s State Park System, as well as the people who visit and help protect these iconic places. People all across the state are invited to celebrate the communities and cultures that make California special, explore new adventures and activities in our shared parks, and discover new ways to deepen relationships with parks and how to continue protecting these landscapes.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Youngsters discover the wonders of tidepools at Crystal Cove earlier this week during a park naturalist-guided exploration

This weekend, two events are planned at Crystal Cove.

–New Moon Walk on Saturday, June 17 at 7:30 p.m. Join a park naturalist who will lead hikers on this two-hour, three-mile moderate to difficult out and back trail.

–Stewardship Sunday on Sunday, June 18 at 8 a.m. Be part of the Crystal Cove Clean-up Crew and help clean the park’s coastline and bluff trail.

California State Parks Week is a stepping stone in the larger initiative in protecting our natural resources, so parks can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. At Crystal Cove Conservancy, they’re committed to protecting and preserving the historic, natural, and cultural resources of Crystal Cove State Park and they need your help to do so.

Crystal Cove invites the public to become members, so if you are interested in membership, visit https://crystalcove.org/membership/.

For more information on Crystal Cove and upcoming events, visit www.crystalcove.org.

Guest Letter

Katrina Foley, Fifth District

Orange County Board of Supervisors

Supervisor offers her office to assist in saving Balboa Island Ferry from burdensome conversion costs

(The following letter was directed to Newport Beach Mayor Noah Blom and the other City Councilmembers.)

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Courtesy of the Office of OC Supervisor Katrina Foley

Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley

I write to offer help from my office (Board of Supervisors, Fifth District), OCTA and the County of Orange to Save the Balboa Island Ferry. I encourage the City of Newport Beach (city) to support the Balboa Island Ferry (ferry) by providing flexible transportation funding directly and by working with my office and the ferry operators to submit applications for funding opportunities offered through the state and other regional programs to replace the existing ferries with zero emission ferries.

As you know, the ferry is in danger of closing due to new regulations issued by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which will require the ferry to convert from diesel fueled engines to an electric or other zero-emission technology by December 31, 2025. The city receives formula AB 2766 funding to develop clean transportation programs and reduce vehicle emissions provided through the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). According to the annual report for AB 2766 from FY 2020-21, the city had a balance of $1.25 million. Confirmation is needed from SCAQMD to determine if a replacement ferry would be eligible, but this type of project seems consistent with the funding programs the city provides.

Additionally, the ferry has indicated concerns about the burden which requires a local public entity partner needed to complete numerous grant applications we discovered for them. Some of the potential grant programs that we could partner with to support the replacement of the existing ferries include:

–VW Mitigation Fund - Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust for California I California Air Resources Board (aqmd.gov).

–Carl Moyer Program - Carl Moyer Program I California Air Resources Board.

–Community Air Protection Incentives - Community Air Protection Incentives I California Air Resources Board.

–Clean Transportation Program - Clean Transportation Program I California Energy Commission.

–Passenger Ferry Grant Program - Passenger Ferry Grant Program I Federal Transit Administration.

Another program to consider in the future is the work program developed through the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee (MSRC). While the current work program will last through the fiscal year 2024, it may be possible for cities to work with my office, as I serve on the MSRC, to request support for projects like this one in the 2024-2025 work program.

As you know, the Balboa Island Ferry is a staple of our community, connecting pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers with affordable and accessible transportation to and from Balboa Island. A journey by car to Balboa Island requires 12 miles round trip around Newport Bay, a 15-to-20-minute journey by car. The Balboa Island Ferry offers approximately 0.6 miles of travel, lasting roughly five minutes. Annually, the ferries transport about 350,000 vehicles and 1.6 million passengers, taking cars off our roads and encouraging cleaner first- and last-mile transportation options.

Two weeks ago, I met with Councilman (Joe) Stapleton and the Beek Family, owners of the Balboa Island Ferry, who underscored the seriousness and challenge of this situation. An estimate for the renovation of the ferries was approximately $5 million, which does not include the cost of building the charging infrastructure for the vehicles. While much discussion currently focuses on extending the time to comply, per CARB regulation, short-run ferries are not eligible for feasibility extensions and only for one-year extensions related to infrastructure delays. As you know, the CA Coastal Commission permit for coastal infrastructure updates can take up to three-plus years to approve. The company needs more time and funding to make these upgrades as an affordable transportation option that only charges $1.50 per trip for passengers.

To preserve this affordable and important source of local transportation, I strongly encourage the city to consider using its existing flexible transportation funding as well as coordinating with my office on the submittal of grant applications to the programs identified above for the ferry. As the Orange County Supervisor for Newport Beach, a member of OCTA’s board of directors, and the alternate representative for the MSRC, I am ready to assist and advocate to Save the Balboa Island Ferry.

Katrina Foley

Orange County Supervisor, Fifth District

NBPD volunteers and the Junior Lifeguard Program

At the end of June each year, the Newport Beach Lifeguards begin a seven-week Junior Lifeguard program with youth ages 9-15. The program focuses on building ocean swimming skills, physical fitness, beach safety awareness and teaching the role of ocean lifeguards while having fun.

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Photos courtesy of NBPD

NBPD Volunteer Bob Kahn stands at the crosswalk to stop pedestrian traffic as vehicles exit the Balboa Ferry

What you might not have known is that the Newport Beach Police Department volunteers, along with the traffic division, assist with the safety and movement of the kids that are attending the program. The NBPD volunteers respond Monday through Thursday to the ferry on Balboa Island, working a shift from 8-9 a.m. or 12-1 p.m. They work with pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, delivery trucks, and even the weekly street sweeper throughout their one-hour shift to ensure everyone in the area is safe, while junior lifeguard participants are on their way to the beach.

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NBPD Volunteer Maggie Hayes assists the junior lifeguards in lining up to board the Balboa Ferry

The Junior Lifeguard program hosts more than 1,000 kids each summer, most traveling to the Peninsula on bicycles through the Balboa Island Ferry. The NBPD volunteers can be found in yellow reflective vests close to the ferry, educating drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists on the rules of the road while assisting the ferry crew by loading and unloading vehicles and pedestrians.

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In 2022, the traffic sergeant, traffic lieutenant, volunteers and ferry crew worked together each day, ensuring the safety of everyone in the area

For those traveling by ferry on Balboa Island and the Peninsula, the Junior Lifeguard program session is from June 20 through August 3.

Editor’s Note: This is an ongoing series of community information provided by the Newport Beach Police Department.

Newport Beach lawyer agrees to plead guilty to $8 million fraud of investors

Newport Beach lawyer Sara Jacqueline King, 39, who claimed she was providing loans to the rich and famous, has agreed to plead guilty to federal felony charges for using her investors’ money to fund her lavish lifestyle, causing them to lose more than $8 million, the Justice Department announced Tuesday (June 13).

According to the U.S Justice Department, King is charged with two counts – information with wire fraud and money laundering. Both the information and a related plea agreement were filed late Monday in United States District Court in Santa Ana.

She is expected to make her initial court appearance on June 20.

According to her plea agreement, King operated King Family Lending LLC, a Newport Beach-based company that purportedly gave short-term, high-interest loans to professional athletes, celebrities and other high-net-worth individuals. The loans supposedly were secured by the borrowers’ own assets, including designer handbags, watches, luxury automobiles, yachts and earnings from guaranteed sports contracts.

From January 2022 until January 2023, King – through her company – recruited investors to purportedly fund her business’ loans. She admitted to telling investors that their investments were secured by the same collateral as the loans themselves. King promised she would retain possession of the collateral and that, in the event a borrower defaulted, she would sell the collateral to pay the investor in full.

King said she would keep a percentage of the interest earned from the loans and that she would pass along a percentage of the interest to victim-investors, along with their initial investment.

In reality, during this time period, King never initiated or funded any loan. Instead, she used victims’ funds to gamble at Las Vegas casinos and support her lavish lifestyle.

King admitted to causing five investors to lose more than $8 million. She has agreed that the applicable restitution amount in this case is at least $8,785,045.

She further admitted to withdrawing approximately $132,156 of investor money from King Family Lending’s bank account to purchase a Porsche Taycan electric sports car.

The FBI and the IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating this matter.

Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer L. Waier of the Santa Ana Branch Office is prosecuting this case.

Sandy Fishbein leads ongoing Corona del Mar beach cleanup effort

Sandy Fishbein, a beloved resident of Corona del Mar, has been making a positive impact through Sandy’s Beach Cleanup. As Fishbein prepared for retirement from her career in medical administration, she sought ways to give back to her community.

Walking across the beach one day, she found herself disgusted by the amount and variety of trash she found on the beach. “Rather than grumbling about it,” Fishbein thought, “I’ll do something.”

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Photos courtesy of Fred Felman

Sandy (second from right), and friends ready to clean up the sand after a busy summer weekend

So, two years ago, Sandy’s Beach Cleanup was born out of Fishbein’s determination to make the beach just a little cleaner. Today, a dedicated group of 6-10 volunteers joins her every Monday morning at 7:30 a.m. near the snack stand on Corona del Mar State Beach. Together, they work to keep the beach better, safer and more beautiful for everyone.

Her efforts go beyond picking up trash. She’s developed relationships with the city workers responsible for beach maintenance. Fishbein collaborates with them to address dangerous conditions, vandalism and graffiti. She said, “It’s a collective effort to create a better beach experience together.”

Fishbein invites anyone to join the Monday morning cleanups from 7:30-8:30 a.m. near the Big Corona Snack Bar at Corona del Mar State Beach. It’s an opportunity to make a direct impact, meet fellow community members, and contribute to keeping the beach cleaner, safer and beautiful.

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Sandy with the crew on a cloudy Monday

Fishbein and her volunteers do make the beach cleaner and safer. By picking up everything from plastic food wrappers, glass, aluminum drink containers, sand toys, discarded clothes, and towels to things too disgusting and dangerous to mention, Corona del Mar is a little more spectacular.

“We welcome everyone who shares our love for the beach and wants to make a difference,” Fishbein said. “By coming together as a community, we make a better Monday for everyone at the beach.”

For more information about Sandy’s Beach Cleanup and how to get involved, visit Corona del Mar State Beach most Mondays at 7:30 a.m.

Sandy’s Beach Cleanup is an ongoing initiative led by Sandy Fishbein, a beloved resident of Corona del Mar. With the support of dedicated volunteers, Sandy’s Beach Cleanup aims to make Corona del Mar State Beach a bit prettier and safer for all to enjoy.

School Notes

News and notes from our colleges and universities

Grace Noya, of Newport Coast, has received the following degree(s) from The University of Alabama: Bachelor of Science in Commerce & Business Administration. UA awarded more than 5,885 degrees during its spring commencement ceremonies.

The University of Alabama is located in Tuscaloosa.

Jacob Dyer of Newport Beach, studying Information Tech & Web Science, has made the Dean’s Honor List for the spring 2023 semester at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y.

Rensselaer’s Dean’s Honor List is compiled at the end of each semester to recognize undergraduate students who have completed 12 or more credit hours with a 3.5 grade point average or better for that term.

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is America’s first technological research university.

Writing Wednesdays: Positive journaling in Sherman Gardens, a five-week class

Join local writer Ellen Bell as she shares the wellness benefits of Positive Journaling and the simple ways you can cultivate your own personal writing practice.

This five-week course will focus on fostering emotions such as gratitude, curiosity, serenity and joy, and will use the tranquil garden setting for inspiration.

Classes will take place on Wednesdays, June 21, 28 and July 5, (not July 12) 19 and 26 from 10-11 a.m.

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Courtesy of Sherman Library & Gardens

Positive Journaling is a five-week class to cultivate personal writing practice

Research shows that regular positive journaling can boost optimism, increase positive emotions and enhance our physical and mental well-being. What better place to plant seeds of happiness than in the natural beauty of the garden?

There is no need to be an experienced writer to enjoy the benefits of this fun and uplifting practice. Writing materials will be provided.

Bell is an author and freelance writer. She is a certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher with a specialty in the practice of Positive Journaling for wellness.

Cost: Sherman Library & Garden members, $100; non-members, $125. Register here.

Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar.

For more information, visit www.thesherman.org.

Sage Hill School salutes the Class of 2023

Sage Hill School celebrated the Class of 2023 during its graduation ceremony on Friday, June 2.

The Newport Coast independent school matriculated a diverse cohort of 133 seniors for its 21st graduating class.

Students walked across the stage in Wilkins Town Square to receive their diplomas from Head of School Patricia Merz in front of a jubilant audience of family members and friends. English teacher Arlie Parker was selected by the graduating seniors as their 2023 graduation faculty speaker.

Student speaker Ava Herin offered the following statement to her classmates.

“Sage Hill has offered us more than I ever thought was imaginable for a high school. Now, as we take the stage and receive our diplomas, we are leaving Sage Hill as leaders, blazing our own paths and redefining the word courage. Sage Hill has taught each one of us how to take any situation and make it our own; to embrace failure for the chance to discover new opportunities, and to never give up even if we cannot reap the rewards of our hard work. I am very proud of all of us for making it this far, for standing together even when we were forced apart and for leaving a profound impact on future classes of Sage Hill.”

 Here are some snapshots of graduation day.

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Photos courtesy of Sage Hill School

Head of School Patricia Merz addresses the Class of 2023 during the graduation ceremony

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Student speaker Ava Herin stands at the podium before graduating

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Seniors stand during the 2023 graduation ceremony

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Eliana Gonzalez and Grant Gallagher wait to walk during the 2023 graduation ceremony

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(L-R) Andrew Cobb, Alex Cobb and Lauren Chung react to a senior class video

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(L-R) Madeleine Dorman, Eleni Engelbrecht, Anastasia Evseeva and Sarah Fan clap during graduation

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Sage Hill faculty and staff members clap for graduating seniors

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Graduating seniors toss their caps during the 2023 graduation ceremony

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Confetti fills Wilkins Town Square at the end of the 2023 graduation ceremony

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(L-R) Elif Ozder, Anastasia Evseeva, Gloria Meehan, Madeline Wrate and Ethan Ball pose for a photo after graduation

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Carson Green and Sarah He walk through the audience after graduation

Community forum highlights projects on the water: Mooring field pilot program, trash-collecting water wheel

By SARA HALL

A community forum this week focused on harbor and bay issues, highlighting two projects that will have significant impact on the water.

Keynote speakers at the Speak Up Newport meeting held on Wednesday (June 14) presented information on the recently approved open water initiative (a pilot program to reconfigure one mooring field in Newport Harbor) and an update to the Newport Bay trash-collecting water wheel project.

About 40 people attended in-person in the Community Room at the Civic Center, while more watched the livestream online.

Former Harbor Commission Chair and current Newport Harbor Foundation Board Member Bill Kenney spoke about the mooring field program.

City Council unanimously approved the pilot project on May 23. Councilmembers voted 7-0 in support of the ordinance that would amend Title 17 (the city’s harbor code) related to mooring standards and permits. The approved action, stemming from Harbor Commission recommendations, will reconfigure mooring field C, which sits between Bay Island and the Balboa Peninsula ferry station.

On Wednesday, Kenney said he’s the “substitute teacher” on the topic, as the expert, current Harbor Commissioner Ira Beer, was in a meeting.

“There are those that are in favor of the open water initiative and there are some that are opposed,” said Kenney, who added that he would present the topic from a nonpartisan standpoint.

The contentious item prompted hundreds of emails and comments and a packed council chambers at the May meeting. More than two dozen people spoke during public comment, many who own mooring permits. A majority of the speakers opposed the project.

The pilot project consists of reconfiguring the C mooring field to double-row moorings, replacing existing single-row moorings and that boats of like sizes be consolidated into the same row(s). To allow for testing of the new layout and for making any necessary adjustments, only one or two rows will be reconfigured initially. The fully completed reconfiguration will include regular inspections from Harbor Department staff as well as interviews with affected permittees and other stakeholders. The relocation of moorings and permittees for the first one or two rows is estimated to take two weeks. Subsequently, the full reconfiguration of the remaining rows in the C field would take approximately 30 days.

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Photo by Sara Hall

Council approved a pilot program to reconfigure the mooring fields in Newport Harbor

Kenney went over the history of the moorings, noting that the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Harbor Patrol handled administration of them since the 1970s.

“During that period which the harbor patrol managed the moorings, there were really no policies or procedures dealing with mooring permit transfers, mooring length extensions, or any other changes in the morning fields,” Kenney said. “As a result, the mooring fields became pretty much a haphazard collection of vessels within the prescribed mooring areas themselves.”

After years of discussing the idea, the city finally took over responsibility for the management of the moorings in 2017.

For decades, there have been no guidelines for mooring length extensions, transfers, issues like spreader lines in fairways, Kenney said. The fairways today are “dangerously narrow” and “cluttered,” he added. Current spacing between the boats is an issue. Sharing a photo of the existing conditions, Kenney said the boats that are less than 10 feet will likely have a problem in a weather event.

Kenney shared an aerial image that “shows the randomness of the existing mooring spacing in the C field.” There is currently no uniformity of boat lengths in the rows at mooring field C. Large vessels protrude into fairways and some are moored outside the designated field boundaries, he said.

“You see boats of varying sizes, you see a fairway that’s difficult to see through and difficult to navigate through,” Kenney said.

A Harbor Commission subcommittee worked on recommendations for improvements to the mooring field utilization and a process to accommodate requests from permittees to adjust the size of their permitted moorings. The subcommittee’s focus included ensuring safe navigation for all users of the harbor in and around the mooring fields.

“We all know that our harbor is not going to get any bigger, however the number of users and types of uses are steadily increasing,” Kenney said.

There are all kinds of new devices out there, he said. There are more and more people that are using the harbor, whether it’s in human-powered craft, rental craft, or their own vessels, Kenney said.

One of the subcommittee objectives was to evaluate the current mooring fields and provide a recommendation for new guidelines that better define rows and fairways to improve navigation and safety, and improve optimization of space within the mooring fields, Kenney explained.

A potential solution, according to the Harbor Commission, for improved navigation, safety and creating new open water space, is to go to a double-row configuration as opposed to the current single room mooring configuration. The new system would utilize the available area within the mooring field by grouping like-sized boats together. Mooring permittees will remain in the same mooring field and, to the extent possible, will be in a like-for-like situation, Kenney confirmed.

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Rendering courtesy of City of Newport Beach

A rendering of what mooring field C would look like after the pilot project with new double row configuration

Under the new pilot program, the new configuration at field C will provide improved utilization of space. Every row will be in substantial compliance with harbor design standards, with boats spaced 50 to 55 feet on center and fairways ranging from 60 to 100 feet. Row sizes are reduced from as many as seven boats down to five boats. The plan will also add seven new long-term city moorings. It will also add two acres of new open water along the main channel (approximately 1,200 feet by 70 feet). The wider channel will offer greater distance between residential properties and moored boats. Conformance to the engineer’s design specifications will be field verified after completion of the first double row, then the balance of rows will be completed.

According to the Harbor Commission, the new open water initiative is attempting to concurrently make more open space in the waters of Newport Harbor by reducing the footprint of the mooring fields and increasing the safety of navigation within those mooring fields and throughout the harbor, Kenney explained.

He summarized what staff and commissioners listed as the benefits, including improved public access, increased size of navigation channels, wider and more well-defined fairways, increased spacing, more overall room when navigating or departing through the morning field, safer navigation through the mooring fields both for the permittees and for other users of the harbor, and the possibility to add additional moorings within the morning fields.

By implementing the double-row configuration the overall footprint of mooring field C is reduced by two acres, significantly opening up the waters of Newport Harbor, Kenney said. The navigation channel between the mooring field and the docks along Balboa Peninsula will be significantly widened. He also showed “before” and “after” photos of some other mooring fields in the harbor, under current conditions and what they would look like with the double-row configuration.

He shared photos of several mooring fields in Newport Harbor and compared them to moorings in San Diego, known as America’s Cup Harbor. For example, there are about 200 boats in mooring fields H and J which currently covers about 30 acres of water space. Kenney noted a mooring field in the SD harbor that utilizes double rows and takes up approximately 15 acres for 180 boats.

 According to the city’s engineers, similar wind and current conditions exist both in America’s Cup Harbor and Newport Harbor, Kenney pointed out.

“So the benefit here is that we would gain a lot more of the open space waterways,” he said.

Answering an audience question, Kenney said he’s not going to debate the opinion about whether the tides and winds are similar to San Diego, but he will rely on the expert engineers to determine what will work and what won’t.

This is just conceptual, he emphasized. As far as he knows, not all of the mooring fields have been completely mapped out yet. So, the conceptual drawings might show specific lengths in certain spaces, but it might change as they deal with the reality of the program.

“I fully expect, as we go through this process, that the fields will be tweaked,” Kenney said. “I think you’ve got to work through this and take it, literally, a step at a time.”

It’s simply a test, he reiterated, to find out if the new tackle and the double-row system in the C field really do work. If so, the city will decide at that time to move forward.

Some new technology is also being proposed for the tackle, which should significantly mitigate damage to the eel grass, Kenney added. The city has a mandate to maintain a certain acreage of eel grass throughout the harbor, he explained, and it can be a problem because it can be difficult to maintain or repair a dock with eel grass underneath.

Kenney also summarized the substantive changes being proposed by the Harbor Commission: The implementation of policies to deal with requests to extend the length of a permittees mooring; to provide the harbormaster with the ability to take action when a vessel drifts out of its assigned area and creates a navigational hazard; to allow a mooring permittee to convert to a single line mooring with a sandline, which is similar to what’s used at Catalina Island and to create new moorings that will be administered on a lottery system by the city.

To buy a permit today, Kenney estimated it would cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $1,000 to $1,200 per lineal foot or more “just for the right to have a mooring Newport Harbor.” It could cost $50,000 for a 50-foot boat, for example. A lottery system administered by the city is being proposed for the new moorings, he noted.

“So, the permittee won’t have to spend $50,000 to get reasonably cost access to boat storage in Newport Harbor,” Kenney said.

Kenney also pointed out that the project has been discussed at 11 commission hearings and numerous stakeholder meetings.

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Rendering courtesy of City of Newport Beach

A rendering of a trash-collecting water wheel proposed for San Diego Creek, near Upper Newport Bay (the latest design uses a rail system to remove the mounted trash bin, not a boat as pictured)

At the start of Wednesday’s meeting, Kenney handed over the mic to Public Works Director Dave Webb to provide an update to the innovative floating, trash-collecting water wheel project that is slated to remove litter from the San Diego Creek as it enters Upper Newport Bay. It will be located in the creek (just east of the Jamboree Road bridge) along the northern bank. It will be visible from the road, but likely be colored in an effort to camouflage with the surrounding landscape, Webb noted.

“It’s an exciting project,” he said.

The “funky” design is essentially a traditional water wheel that will “rake” the trash out of the water, haul it up a conveyer built, and dump it into a bin for disposal, Webb explained.

Large volumes of trash and debris, sometimes exceeding 300 cubic yards during heavy storm seasons, flow into the bay from the creek every year.

The water wheel will be a moored vessel that uses booms to direct floating trash to the structure where rotating rakes push the litter onto a conveyor belt that moves the garbage up and into a mounted bin. The creek will turn the water wheel, which in turn powers the conveyer belt (solar power will provide an electrical assist). Trash is emptied into a floating container and transferred to shore via an elevated fixed rail system (instead of by boat like Baltimore’s trash wheel). A garbage truck will access the landside facility and remove the trash.

It’s modeled after Baltimore’s “Mr. Trash Wheel,” which has its own social media and a worldwide following. Although Newport’s system will operate a little differently, Webb noted. In Baltimore, a boat tows the container to a transit station, but a boat cannot enter San Diego Creek, so the city engineers had to create a short, elevated rail system instead, he explained.

Also, the river is constantly flowing in Baltimore, whereas the water here can be a bit stagnant unless the region gets rain storms, Webb added.

The additional rail system added to the overall cost of the project, he noted. Recent construction bids came back high and the city is about $2.7 million “out of our budget zone” at the moment. They also received two grants to help pay for the project, he noted, including a $1.7 million grant from the California Ocean Protection Council, but they are also working on private donations and possible sponsorships.

“We’re looking to close that gap,” Webb said.

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Rendering courtesy of City of Newport Beach

Conceptual photo showing trash interceptor positioned in San Diego Creek, just above entry into the Back Bay

The California Coastal Commission unanimously approved the project on June 9, 2022. At the same time, CCC officials emphasized their strong encouragement for the city to step up and do more in terms of limiting usage of single-use plastic and Styrofoam and stopping a big contributor to the trash problem at the source. Many also mentioned that upstream cities need to do more in this effort as well, but emphasized that Newport should lead the way.

Newport Beach has a “multi-pronged trash reduction approach,” Webb said. It includes the Santa Ana-Delhi Channel full trash capture project, installed catch basin trash screens, city-maintained trash skimmers and annual clean-up events underwater, in the bay, on the beach, and along the channels.

“We have a multitude of things that we’re doing,” Webb said.

They hope to award the contract for the project at the July 11 council meeting so work can get underway this fall. They are required to coordinate with the migratory birds’ schedule, so work in the channel is limited from September to March. Working within the flood control channel during the rainy season makes it a little challenging, he noted.

They hope to begin site work (grading, pile installation, solar power and rail systems) in fall or early winter this year. By winter 2024, they hope to install the trash interceptor.

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Sara Hall covers City Hall and is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

Council OKs new special flood hazard overlay district, addresses FEMA requirements

By SARA HALL

New homes or major remodels on West Oceanfront on the Balboa Peninsula that are required to raise their foundations several feet off the sand due to federal regulations will be allowed some added flexibility aimed at improving access and outdoor space usability following a unanimous decision by City Council this week to establish a new special flood hazard overlay district.

Councilmembers voted 7-0 on Tuesday (June 13) in support of amendments to city code to establish the overlay district for properties generally located between 24th Street and 48th Street and designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as being in the VE Special Flood Hazard Area (VE zone).

It addresses Balboa Peninsula homes that are in the FEMA flood zone and are subject to the federal agency’s requirements, explained Community Development Director Seimone Jurjis. New development and substantial remodels that have to be raised five feet essentially loses their entrances, balconies and some outdoor living space.

“The purpose today is to propose an ordinance change that allows these specific homes to have a little bit more flexibility on their side yards,” to expand into that setback, Jurjis said.

It’s a complex topic that staff has been dealing with for several years, noted Councilmember Joe Stapleton, who commended staff’s effort on addressing the issue. FEMA is attempting to prepared for the 100-year storms, he added.

“This is a massive challenge, very frustrating,” he said.

Stapleton, a longtime Peninsula resident, emphasized the importance of protecting quality of life for residents and noted the consideration for potential long-term effects, either positive or negative. There are some issues that could negatively impact residents, both on the boardwalk and the sand, and those that live next to these potential new builds.

He suggested that encroachments not exceed three feet into the front setback and the minimum amount necessary to get into the dwelling for the side setbacks. Both of his changes were ultimately incorporated into the proposed language that the council approved.

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Rendering courtesy of City of Newport Beach

A rendering of a VE compliant design with the proposed code amendments

On May 4, the Planning Commission unanimously approved the staff proposed amendments to city code to establish the overlay district for properties generally located between 24th Street and 48th Street and designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as being in the VE Special Flood Hazard Area (VE zone). They are the first row of homes along the boardwalk or the sand, explained Senior Planner Liz Westmoreland.

On March 21, 2019, new FEMA flood insurance rate maps went into effect in the city. The new maps include the designation of a Special Flood Hazard Area (VE Zone) affecting 166 beachfront properties in West Newport, between 24th Street and 48th Street. This area FEMA believes is subject to wave action.

“This is a flood zone we’ve never had in the city. This is something we typically see in places like Florida or South Carolina and also our neighbor in Dana Point,” Westmoreland said.

The city did not agree with the methodology of FEMA and appealed the maps, Westmoreland said. As a result, a lot of areas were removed from the flood zone, but not this particular area on the Peninsula.

“At the end of the day, we were not able to remove one area of the city from this new VE special flood zone area,” she said.

New development, a significant remodel, or substantial improvement within the VE Zone is required to meet FEMA construction design criteria, which includes elevating the finished floor of new residential structures approximately three to five feet above existing grade to avoid flood hazards from potential wave action. This includes using pilings, posts, piers, or columns to raise the main residential structure and maintaining an open foundation free of obstructions for those areas located below the base flood elevation (BFE). In the event of a wave attack, these structures are designed to allow water to flow below the elevated floor system without damaging the foundation or creating substantial debris.

Of the 166 affected properties in the West Newport zone, 27 properties are in the “VE 13” area and require structures to be elevated by approximately three feet above the existing grade. The remaining 139 properties are in the “VE 15” area and require structures to be elevated approximately five feet above the existing grade.

Compliance with the VE zone design criteria presents several challenges for new residential development (or significant remodels) to also meet the requirements of city code. Specifically, the conflicting design requirements significantly limits the means of access to the house, as well as the usability of outdoor areas.

Existing residential development standards in the NBMC limit the height of accessory structures to 42 inches maximum within the front setback. However, in the VE Zone, no patios or decks attached to the principal structure can be located below the elevated first floor.

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Photos courtesy of City of Newport Beach

A Peninsula home under construction being built under current city code and FEMA VE zone requirements

Westmoreland shared a photo of a residence currently under construction and almost complete that was built under the current city code and FEMA VE zone requirements. Due to the federal regulations, the home is raised several feet off the sand. But it does not include any exterior stairs to the entrance of the raised home because the City of Newport Beach limits any kind of encroachments (like stairs) within the front, side and rear setbacks. For example, steps, landings, platforms and similar features in the rear or side setback can’t be more than 18 inches from the existing grade, which is not enough to reach the first floor of the new elevated home.

In this particular case, the property owner did not want to wait for a potential code amendment or ask for a variance, Jurjis said, so they recessed their entrance stairs to be included on the inside of the home’s footprint. This cuts into the first-floor livable space and restricts circulation. The amendment will allow the stairs to be sitting in the side yard and not have to be “stealthy,” in future projects, he noted.

This house will also have “break-away walls” around the foundation to provide security and to be more visually pleasing, Westmoreland added. Also, the open space between the sand and the foundation is not allowed to be used for much, she noted. It’s limited to an elevator or stairs, or very minimal storage, but not utilities or any kind of habitable space.

“That’s a really unusable area under that foundation,” Westmoreland said.

The example provided is the only project currently under construction, Jurjis noted, but there are two other applications pending that are asking for a variance to allow for the exterior steps.

“You’ve got to get stairs up to that five-foot level to enter the house,” Jurjis said.

The proposed amendments seek to remedy the challenges related to access and usability of outdoor areas, Westmoreland said. Specifically, the proposed amendment is intended to resolve conflicts in the NBMC related to height allowances in setbacks that limit or eliminate access and usability of front, side and rear setbacks.

These amendments do not change any of the FEMA VE requirements. The proposed overlay would modify development standards for new residential projects allowing raised walkways, decks and stairs with necessary guardrails to encroach into the front, side and rear setback areas to provide reasonable use and site access. The raised decks and walkways would be elevated similarly to the required elevated finished floor of the new home.

Sharing a photo of a home on the boardwalk that features a subterranean space and a first-floor balcony, Stapleton suggested no further setback closer to the boardwalk.

“I do believe if that setback were extended another two feet when you’re walking on the boardwalk it just changes the entire vibe of the boardwalk, up and down,” Stapleton said. “You would literally have a five-foot balcony staring at your face when you’re walking down the boardwalk.”

He emphasized how aggressive it would be if the balcony were to jut out another two feet.

“This is really frustrating because it changes the entire characteristic of the boardwalk on the Peninsula,” he added.

He supported the change that would allow stairs in the front setback so the homeowner can access the beach, as long as the builder can figure out how to include the steps within that three-foot space that extends to ground level at the boardwalk or the sand.

He also favored changing the language to limit the side setback encroachment to the minimum amount necessary to get into the dwelling. The concern is that if there is a pathway along the entire side of the house that’s several feet off the ground, but if the neighboring property does not have a raised house it could raise privacy issues.

Councilmember Erik Weigand echoed support for the changes. Both residents and visitors like the current look and design of the boardwalk, he noted.

“If we were moving that up, it almost would seem like a tight corridor and just wouldn’t have the feel of being on the Peninsula as it is today or being on the boardwalk,” Weigand said.

Councilmember Lauren Kleiman, who first reviewed the issue when she was on the Planning Commission and a project came before them requesting a variance, said she’s amenable to the proposed changes. It makes sense and strikes a good balance, she added.

“I think it’s a good compromise that allows these property owners to kind of take back a little of what they lost,” Kleiman said.

In response to Stapleton’s concerns, staff revised some of the code language.

Under the section for allowed encroachments in front setbacks, subject to specific restrictions, for interior lots, excluding the required guardrails or handrails, the finished surface of the encroachment shall not exceed six inches above the finished floor of the dwelling unit(s). Staff added that “a deck, balcony, patio, or terrace encroachment shall not exceed three feet into the front setback. Stairs, steps, or landing encroachments required for access may extend to the front property line.”

After a few language changes, the next item in the section explains that, for corner lots, excluding the required guardrails or handrails, the finished surface of the encroachment shall not exceed six inches above the finished floor of the dwelling unit(s) and may extend into the front setback adjacent to the beach, permitted ocean front encroachment areas, or ocean front boardwalk. A deck, balcony, patio, or terrace encroachment shall not exceed three feet into the front setback. Stairs, steps, or landing encroachments required for access may extend to the front property line. Encroachments are subject to compliance with all other development standards of the underlying zoning district.

Westmoreland explained that they revised sections specifically for the stairs, to ensure that they are allowed to encroach to the full property line, both for interior and corner lots.

Under allowed encroachments in side and rear setbacks (other than those abutting an alley), staff updated the language for restrictions regarding interior lots, which note that the encroachment may be located in one or more side or rear setback and may extend to the property line abutting the side or rear setback. Staff added that “encroachments in an interior side or rear setback may only be permitted to the minimum extent necessary to provide access to the dwelling from both the front and the rear of the property.”

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Sara Hall covers City Hall and is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Elizabeth Segerstrom steps up to the plate by bringing the United Ukrainian Ballet for a truly special local run

Elizabeth Segerstrom has a commitment to the arts that is very possibly unmatched. Last season that passion included bringing in Reunited in Dance and Like Water for Chocolate ballet performances to Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

This year, her love results in the announcement of the United Ukrainian Ballet coming for their West Coast debut to Segerstrom Center for the Arts of Alexei Ratmansky’s Giselle, June 29 -July 2.

The performance will be accompanied by the Pacific Symphony with Conductor Gavriel Heine.

“This performance was like no other,” said The Times, London.

“Immensely moving...everyone involved pours so much thought, heart and art into this revelatory project,” according to The Guardian.

The West Coast debut follows visits to Washington, D.C.’s Kennedy Center and the London Coliseum.

Giselle has been called a new interpretation of one of the greatest romantic ballets in the classical repertoire, which was created specifically for the company by Ratmansky, who himself is a Ukrainian citizen.

In addition to all of this, these performances will be the first time Ratmansky’s Giselle is presented in collaboration with Liev Schreiber and his non-profit organization, BlueCheck Ukraine.

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Photo by ©Altin Kaftira

Oleksii Kniazkov as Albrecht and Elizaveta Gogidze as Giselle in the United Ukrainian Ballet

The underwriting support of Elizabeth and the Henry T. and Elizabeth Segerstrom Foundation allows for proceeds from ticket sales to benefit BlueCheck, which was created to vett, verify and fund Ukrainian-led local and grassroots frontline organizations providing lifesaving humanitarian aid.

For tickets or more information go here.

• • •

Newport Beach Lifeguards hosted their annual “All-Hands” meeting Wednesday (June 14) at Lifeguard Headquarters. They introduced more than 30 new seasonals and welcomed back all the returning guards.

Six of those had familiar names to the department. The six were sons and daughters of those in Newport Beach Fire Operations (Ambrose, Bogin, McAllister, Ruffini, Wick and Battalion Chief Mike Ure).

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Submitted photo

Newport Beach Fire Chief Jeff Boyles (second from left) and team welcome six new second-generation members to the crew

 Included are returnees Maddie and Trevor Ambrose, Blake Bogin and Tyler Ruffini, along with rookie lifeguards Kate McAllister and Maddie Wick.

Cool stuff…welcome to the team!

• • •

If you’re like me, you might have gotten caught up in the recent NBA playoffs and NHL Stanley Cup action, both of which had fabulous finishes in the last week.

Being honest, the action on the ice, between Las Vegas and Florida, was some of the best I’ve seen in all my years of viewing sports. When it was done, the Golden Knights had wrapped up the Cup on Tuesday evening by beating the Florida Panthers, 9-3, to win the series four games to one.

The story behind the Las Vegas franchise is somewhat dreamlike. The Golden Knights are a 6-year-old expansion team that made the Stanley Cup Finals their first year out, against all odds, only to come back this season to win it and, in the process, become the fastest expansion team to ever reach the pinnacle in any of the country’s four major sports (football, basketball, baseball and hockey).

I hear you, you’re saying “great Tom, but how is this a local story to Newport Beach?”

Well, here goes. A gentleman named Bill Foley, the chairman of Fidelity National Financial, began organizing the original ownership group to initially get the Golden Knights to the ice. During that process, he contacted some longtime family friends while putting it together with an opportunity to join in. Enter the Pickup and Martin families of Newport Beach.

That’s right. You perhaps know them better as the forces behind Eagle Four Partners, now the owners of the VEA Newport Beach, the Balboa Bay Club & Resort, Newport Beach Country Club and, soon, the Pendry Newport Beach and Ritz-Carlton residential tower next to the VEA.

Now, don’t get me wrong. Kevin Martin and Todd Pickup are NOT calling the shots for Las Vegas. Although they are significant investors in the team, Martin described it to me more as a “long-term legacy investment play.”

Still, investments such as these do have their perks. An example of it shows in a photo forwarded to me with Dick Pickup, Kevin Martin and Todd Pickup hoisting the Stanley Cup on the ice immediately following Tuesday’s victory.

It’s all part of the hockey custom that has the team, management, coaches, trainers, staff and ownership enjoy individual skates or walks around the ice with the Cup hoisted overhead following the victory.

Heck, it wouldn’t even surprise me to see a visit of the Cup locally in the next year.

Congrats to them on this wonderful accomplishment. And the good news is they’ve promised there’s still more to come, with much of it right here in Newport Beach in the coming months. Stay tuned!

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Submitted photo

(L-R) Kevin Martin, Dick Pickup and Todd Pickup are all smiles on the ice following the Las Vegas Golden Knights’ Stanley Cup win over the Florida Panthers

• • •

Elsewhere in the sports world affecting our local area are the Los Angeles Rams reporting to their annual training camp home in Newport Beach while staying at the VEA and practicing at UCI beginning Tuesday, July 25.

Also in the works, but not yet finalized, is a report that the New Orleans Saints could be visiting for a little training camp work of their own. Time will tell.

• • •

We mentioned the Pendry Newport Beach above. I was lucky enough to tour the under-construction resort while donning a hardhat last week. Very, very impressive!

That includes The Elwood Club, a members-only one-of-a-kind gathering spot that will provide “exceptional experiences in music, art, travel, fashion, food, drink, wellness, and sport for friends and families to share. It’s an artful environment where new traditions, friendships, and connections are made.”

If you’re interested in looking into The Elwood Club further, go to https://elwoodclub.com.

The whole project will bring something new and spectacular to our community. I am hearing a possible September opening is in the works.

Also announced this week, will be the arrival of dining and nightlife powerhouse Clique Hospitality’s SET Steak & Sushi at Pendry Newport Beach.

• • •

Looking for something to take Dad to on Father’s Day? Enjoy a terrific collection of cars (rare to classic to custom), great music, fresh grilled BBQ favorites, cocktails and other fun at the 16th Annual Father’s Day Car Show at the Balboa Bay Resort. It takes place Sunday (June 18) from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

It’s complimentary thanks to sponsors and no reservations are required. Simply show up, with dad in tow, of course.

• • •

If you think for a second that a couple of people got together to organize and conduct the Balboa Island Parade earlier this month, think again.

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Submitted photo

The volunteers of the Balboa Island Parade gather to celebrate another successful event

We thank you all for a wonderful community event and fun-filled day.

Hoag earns National Accreditation for Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program

On June 13, Hoag announced that the Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program within its Digestive Health Institute has earned accreditation as a Comprehensive Center from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP).

A joint program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), the MBSAQIP sets national standards for bariatric surgery centers with a goal of advancing safe, high-quality care for weight-loss surgery patients.

“We are honored to receive recognition for Hoag’s dedication to meeting the needs of metabolic and bariatric surgery patients by providing multidisciplinary, high-quality, patient-centered care,” said Adrian Dobrowolsky, M.D., director of Hoag’s Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program. “Our team offers a whole-person approach to weight loss to ensure each patient has the optimal support to embrace their new lifestyle.”

Established in 2021, the Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program at Hoag takes a holistic approach to the disease of obesity, with a multidisciplinary team providing a full spectrum of bariatric care including guidance on nutrition and exercise as well as psychological support.

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Courtesy of Hoag 

(L-R) Adrian Dobrowolsky, M.D. and Katherine Blevins, M.D., Ph.D.

To be accredited as a Comprehensive Center, a bariatric surgery program must undergo an independent, voluntary and rigorous peer evaluation in accordance with nationally recognized bariatric surgical standards. This accreditation not only promotes uniform benchmarks, it supports continuous quality improvement.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates about 93 million adults in the United States are affected by obesity and that number continues to increase. Bariatric surgery has proven to be effective in the reduction of comorbid conditions related to obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and cancer, among other health risks. Working together, the ACS and the ASMBS have developed accreditation standards for metabolic and bariatric surgery to assist patients with obesity in identifying centers that provide optimal patient care.

More than 30 years of clinical data have demonstrated the significant health benefits of bariatric surgery for appropriate patients, including its reversal of multiple diseases and conditions. Last fall, after three decades without significant changes, leading surgical groups overhauled the weight loss surgery guidelines to enable more people to have surgery before their conditions worsen.

“Many patients are unsure if surgery is the right option for them. We work with individuals, conducting a personalized consultation with each patient to thoroughly discuss their condition and options and determine together the best next step in their weight-loss journey,” said Katherine Blevins, M.D., Ph.D., a fellowship-trained Hoag bariatric surgeon skilled in the most advanced, minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic techniques.

Hoag is a nonprofit, regional health care delivery system in Orange County, Calif. Delivering world-class, comprehensive, personalized care, Hoag consists of 1,800 top physicians, 15 urgent care facilities, 10 health and wellness centers and two award-winning hospitals. Hoag offers a comprehensive blend of health care services that includes seven institutes providing specialized services in the following areas: cancer, digestive health, heart and vascular, neurosciences, spine, women’s health and orthopedics through Hoag’s affiliate, Hoag Orthopedic Institute, which consists of an orthopedic hospital and four ambulatory surgical centers. Hoag is the highest ranked hospital in Orange County by U.S. News & World Report and the only OC hospital ranked in the Top 10 in California, as well as a designated Magnet^® hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). For more information, visit www.hoag.org.

For more information about the Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program within Hoag’s Digestive Health Institute or to make an appointment, visit www.hoag.org/weightloss, or call 949.764.8065.

On the Harbor: Transpac pre-race review

By LEN BOSE

I am getting a feeling similar to what a professional football player might feel after their retirement when going into Super Bowl week. Recalling Michael Strahan’s statement, “I miss the excitement and camaraderie of the game and my teammates. I don’t miss the effort or the pain.” Just one look at me and I have never appeared to resemble a professional football player or athlete. Although as we get closer to the starting gun for the 2023 Transpac sailboat race to Hawaii, I am missing the excitement and camaraderie of an 18-month commitment to this race. I know better than to come out of retirement, as I am not missing the effort or upcoming pain.

Let’s pretend I have made it to the pre-game show sitting in the color commentary chair…and we’ll go over the players. Let’s start with Division 7 sponsored by Boatswains Locker division, which is your true Corinthian class. Most of these boats are production boats, with the owners and crews going for the challenge of sailing across the Pacific and checking off the box on their bucket list.

There are a couple of boats that jump out at me that might just turn out on the podium. Ed Sanford’s J -111 Creative is one of two entries in this division that can get on a plane. I know nothing about this team, but I just like the boat. Charles Devanneaux is the Beneteau dealer in Marina Del Rey, so this is not his first rodeo. I would be surprised if his team makes any basic mistakes, although naming your boat Lenny kind of rubs me. One thing is for sure, they will have the best wine selection on the course. The real sleeper in this division is Ian Edwards’ Dehler 46 Wings. This boat and team have traveled from Australia to be in this race. This is a very seasoned team with more than four years together participating in Australia’s most competitive offshore races. If it’s a windy race, this will be the team to beat.

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Photo by Sharon Green

“Horizon” finishing the 2015 Transpac

Division 8 is sponsored by the smithREgroup. This is a larger boat – Corinthian class. What I am referring to as Corinthian, is these teams have not hired the worlds’ sailing pros, and have somewhat of a smaller sail inventory than the full-out race boats. The crew is not eating freeze-dried food, and they’re not limited to two T-shirts and a pair of shorts in their sea bags. More importantly, they have a real head aboard, not just a bucket. In this division, a couple of boats are commanding to my attention. If the race has a consistent 15-knot breeze, we could see the Hylas 63 Malilia owned by Nick Green just lean over on her side and waterline the rest of the division to Hawaii. Next, I have to take notice of Green’s Express 37 Juno. This is a proven team with a couple of names on the crew list. In this division, it’s very easy to pick the winner and that’s Sweet Okole, as this team is proven and with Cliff Stag aboard, there is no way this boat’s crew will not step on to the top of the podium. If the weather pattern works out in favor of the first starters, this boat can easily win the race overall.

Division 4 is sponsored by the Ocean Navigator. Now we are moving from Corinthian-style racing to the people that will do anything for the pickle dish. This division has four J-125s, a Rogers 46 and a KER 46. These are all types of proven planning offshore flat-out racing boats. I’ve raced against the KER 46 Denali3 owned by Bill McKinley before, and this team appears to be the favorite in my opinion, followed by the J-125 Arsenal from the Bay Area. This will be an interesting division to watch.

Division 5 is sponsored by the Cabrillo Boat Shop. This division is the closest to my heart because of the Santa Cruz 50 Horizon I raced on in the last four Transpacs. This division has been reshaped because three of the owners have refitted their boats and have turboed them out. The top three boats will be Steve Sellinger’s Santa Cruz 52 Triumph from the Newport Harbor Yacht Club, Chris Messano’s/Bill Durant’s Santa Cruz 50 Deception and Dave Moore’s Santa Cruz 52 Westerly. I am hoping that Sellinger’s Triumph is triumphant; his team is strong and experienced.

The problem is Messano’s/Durant’s Santa Cruz 50 Deception, which has gone through a major refit. It has a very strong crew, along with the best navigator on the course in Jeff “Elvis” Thrope. If that was not a large enough competitor to overcome there is Westerly the Santa Cruz 52 owned by Moore, again with a very strong crew and an outstanding navigator in Chris Busch. This boat has also gone through a major refit and has lined up against Triumph early this season, and showed superior boat speed. Looking over the crew list’s nine people – all have sailed on Horizon over the last nine years, so I have good friends on all three boats. By the seat of my pants and I truly hope I am wrong, it’s going to come down between Deception and Westerly with Westerly taking the checked flag while correcting out for the division win.

Division 6 is sponsored by Pasha. I found it fortunate this class was formed, because these boats would not have been able to compete in any other division. I am hoping that Steve Ernest’s boat Aimant de Mille does well. Although it will not be easy for his team with Ho’okolohe sailed by Cecil Rossi, who will not make any mistakes and is well prepared. The division favorite is Spin Doctor owned by Paul Farrell.

Division 1 is sponsored by Cal Maritime. With seven boats in this division, six boats are all stacked with the world’s best professional sailors. In this division, I would like to see Doug Baker’s boat Peligroso win the class. The heavy favorite to win this division and overall is Michael Firmin’s boat Zeus. This boat’s salary cap would rival the Dallas Cowboys. It will be interesting to see if any of these boats can beat RIO100 for first to finish.

Division 2 is sponsored by SD Boatworks. Four boatsare in this division. I am going to be pulling for Balboa Yacht Club’s entry Fast Exit II, owned by John Raymount with Brad Wheeler as navigator. Wheeler is a good friend, so I would really like to see him do well.

Division 3 is sponsored by Whittier Trust. Ten boats are in this division with Roy Disney’s Pyewacket…yes, the magical cat with ears is the hands-down favorite in this division, of what we used to call 70 raters. I will be pulling for two of our hometown participants with Craig Reynold’s Bolt or David Clark’s Grand Illusion, both trying to make the magical cat with ears spit up a hairball.

The racing starts with Divisions 7 and 8 on June 27; Divisions 4, 5 and 6 on June 29 and Divisions 1, 2, 3 and 9 on July 1.

Follow the racing at https://yb.tl/transpac2019#. If I have guessed right, I will be sure to remind you.

Sea ya.

~~~~~~~~

Len Bose is a yachting enthusiast, yacht broker and harbor columnist for Stu News Newport.

Peaceful

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Photo by Lana Johnson

The calm of an afternoon on the Grand Canal

You know the spot

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Photo by Lana Johnson

It should be a great weekend to get out and enjoy all of Balboa

Council agenda covers homeless recommendations, flood hazard overlay district, fee study, 2023-24 budget, committee appointments

By SARA HALL

Next week’s Newport Beach City Council meeting includes a variety of interesting items.

At the Tuesday (June 13) meeting, council will consider: Recommendations from the Homeless Ad Hoc Committee; special flood hazard overlay district; a fee study update and the proposed fiscal year 2023-24 budget. There are also several notable items on the consent calendar, presentations during the study session, and matters which councilmembers have asked to be placed on a future agenda.

Last up during current business, the council will consider recommendations from the Homeless Ad Hoc Committee. Council re-established the committee in March for the purpose of evaluating the contract services under the city’s homeless outreach program.

The committee, comprised of Mayor Noah Blom and councilmember Robyn Grant and Lauren Kleiman, developed a list of recommendations for the council review.

Under overall directives, the committee recommends creating a council policy for the city’s approach to people experiencing homelessness. The policy should: Focus all efforts and funding on street exits; offer services first; regular and even enforcement of all city and state laws; consistent tracking and reporting across all departments and partners; reallocate funds previously considered for grants for homeless-related services toward city-run initiatives, and perform baseline citywide count and repeat annually.

The committee is also recommending the council revise contracts for consistency with the proposed policy, acquire and/or access additional shelter beds, and hold vendors and partners accountable to proposed council policy.

The recommendations also includes consideration of adopting a new ordinance for code clarification.

Committee members are also suggesting that the city engage a consultant for community education regarding the city’s “Good Giving” campaign.

The council will also consider amending the ad hoc committee’s scope and term.

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Rendering courtesy of City of Newport Beach

A rendering of a VE compliant design with the proposed code amendments for the special flood hazard overlay district

Also on the council agenda for Tuesday is a public hearing regarding a code amendment establishing the “VE” special flood hazard overlay district for West Oceanfront properties on the Balboa Peninsula.

On May 4, the Planning Commission unanimously approved the staff proposed amendments to city code to establish the overlay district for properties generally located between 24th Street and 48th Street and designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as being in the VE Special Flood Hazard Area (VE zone).

On March 21, 2019, new FEMA flood insurance rate maps went into effect in the city. The new maps include the designation of a Special Flood Hazard Area (VE Zone) affecting 166 beachfront properties in West Newport, between 24th Street and 48th Street. This area FEMA believes is subject to wave action.

The city did not agree with the methodology of FEMA and appealed the maps. As a result, a lot of areas were removed from the flood zone, but not this particular area.

New development within the VE Zone is required to meet FEMA construction design criteria, which includes elevating the finished floor of new residential structures approximately three to five feet above existing grade to avoid flood hazards from potential wave action. This includes using pilings, posts, piers, or columns to raise the main residential structure and maintaining an open foundation free of obstructions for those areas located below the base flood elevation (BFE). In the event of a wave attack, these structures are designed to allow water to flow below the elevated floor system without damaging the foundation or creating substantial debris.

Of the 166 affected properties in the West Newport zone, 27 properties are in the “VE 13” area and require structures to be elevated by approximately three feet above the existing grade. The remaining 139 properties are in the “VE 15” area and require structures to be elevated approximately five feet above the existing grade.

In order to develop a new structure, a significant remodel, or substantial improvement in this area, builders are required to raise the finished floor of these structures above grade about three to five feet and they’re located on piers, posts and piles.

Compliance with the VE zone design criteria presents several challenges for new residential development to also meet the requirements of city code. Specifically, the VE Zone design criteria significantly limit means of access to the dwelling, as well as the usability of outdoor areas.

The proposed amendments seek to remedy the challenges related to access and usability of outdoor areas. Specifically, the proposed amendment is intended to resolve conflicts in the NBMC related to height allowances in setbacks that limit or eliminate access and usability of front, side and rear setbacks.

These amendments do not change any of the FEMA VE requirements. The proposed overlay would modify development standards for new residential projects allowing raised walkways, decks and stairs with necessary guardrails to encroach into the front, side and rear setback areas to provide reasonable use and site access. The raised decks and walkways would be elevated similarly to the required elevated finished floor of the new home.

“Due to the complexity of complying with FEMA construction design criteria and the city’s current design standards, the proposed ordinance is meant to provide the property owner with flexibility in the design of their home,” the staff report explains.

In another public hearing, council will consider approving the fiscal year 2022-23 fee study update and an amendment to the paramedic subscription program fees.

The city performs an annual study of user fees and charges to ensure that fees and charges do not exceed the cost of providing services, which is performed on a rotating basis by the department every three to five years. This year, the city hired a consultant, ClearSource Financial Consulting, to update the fees in the community development, fire, and police departments (following a cost recovery analysis).

ClearSource met with staff from each department to discuss the services provided, the annual volume for those services, and the staff resources and time estimates for delivering the related services. To factor in both direct and indirect costs, ClearSource calculates the department staff’s fully burdened hourly rate, which includes both internal administrative as well as citywide overhead costs. The fully burdened hourly rates are applied to the time estimates provided by staff and the fee is calculated.

There are a few notable fee changes proposed.

In the planning division of the community development department this division, staff is also recommending two new fees:

–Litigation defense fee, which would be based on actual cost, on a time and materials basis. In cases where legal staff time is incurred, staff proposes utilizing the full hourly and burdened rate of personnel as well as the city and departmental overhead rates established by the most recently completed cost allocation plan in the fee calculation.

–General plan maintenance fee, which would be dedicated to costs associated with maintaining and updating the city’s general plan and support documents. The fee will be applied as 5% of all new construction, additions and alterations for residential and commercial project building permit fees, and is intended to recover 12% of the city’s estimated ongoing and future costs related to this core service area.

Under the fire department, the emergency medical services’ advanced life support and basic life support (both with transport) fees are both proposed to increase by 2% to align both transport fees with the current cost of providing these services. The increase was anticipated to be of a marginal nature and more of an inflationary adjustment since these fees were more significantly adjusted as part of the FY 2019-20 fee study to capture the vehicle and equipment cost along with the cost associated with the ambulance billing service and disposable medical supplies.

Staff is also proposing to increase the fee for the voluntary paramedic subscription program, known as Fire Medics, from $60 to $84 per year. This increase is due to the increased cost of transport services. The last subscription service fee increase occurred in 2015.

There are also two new fees proposed related to fire prevention inspections, both proposed at $455, for multi-level inspections of a fire alarm system and of a commercial fire sprinkler system.

There are also several new fees for animal control division in the police department. Staff is proposing a $70 adoption fee of a senior dog or cat, a $155 fee for court ordered inspections for miscellaneous animal inspection services, a $200 fee for the owner turn-in fee of an unaltered animal and a $248 fee for a declared dangerous animal.

Staff is also recommending a parking pay-by-cell fees ranging from 15 cents to 25 cents per transaction.

In another public hearing related to finance, council will consider adopting the FY 2023-24 budget and recommendations from the Finance Committee.

Council held a joint study session with the committee on May 23 and, after detailed discussions, no changes were made to the proposed budget.

The operating budget totals $410.7 million and the capital budget totals $29.4 million in fiscal year 2023-24, for a total of $440.1 million. Capital spending of $233.8 million is anticipated over the six years covered by the CIP, subject to change with each future annual budget process.

According to the staff report, the budget includes:

–A stable local revenue base with projected fiscal year 2023-24 property tax revenues growing at an estimated 3.4%.

–A healthy level of reserves that includes a general fund contingency reserve of $62 million.

–Continuation of an aggressive pension payment plan with a level dollar payment of $40 million and the intent to allocate an additional $5 million from the fiscal year 2023-24 remaining surplus of revenues over expenditures, which based on current projections will see the city’s unfunded pension liability eliminated in less than 10 years.

–The proposed FY 2023-24 budget includes 765 full-time positions, an increase of 24 full-time position from the prior year.

Earlier in the meeting, on the consent calendar (items considered routine and usually voted in one motion without discussion unless a councilmember pulls the item), council will consider: The second reading of the mooring field design pilot project, which was unanimously approved on May 23; the seven-year Measure M2 capital improvement program for transit related projects; a $312,155 agreement with Granicus, LLC, for Granicus web and govAccess updates, and grant recommendations for community programs and special events.

Also on the consent calendar, council will also consider the applications and confirmation of nominations to the Water Quality/Coastal Tidelands Committee, the Finance Committee, Board of Library Trustees, Building and Fire Board of Appeals, Arts Commission, Civil Service Board, Harbor Commission and the Planning Commission.

Earlier in the meeting, during matters which councilmembers have asked to be placed on a future agenda (non-discussion items), council will consider two possible future discussion items, both suggested from Councilmember Erik Weigand.

First, council will consider directing staff to research Planning Commission stipends in surrounding and comparable Orange County cities to determine if Newport Beach compensates its commissioners appropriately.

As the second potential future agenda item, council will consider initiating the process of renaming Back Bay View Park in honor of former Councilmember Jean Watt. She was also a co-founder of SPON (Stop Polluting Our Newport/Still Protecting Our Newport), former Citizen of the Year, founder and president of the Friends of Harbors, Beaches and Parks, fund development chairman for the Environmental Nature Center, and longtime community activist. Watt died on April 16 at the age of 96.

During the study session earlier in the meeting, council will hear an overview of improvements to the Santa Ana-Delhi Flood Control Channel. Staff from Orange County public works department will share a presentation regarding work to the existing flood control channel from Upper Newport Bay to downstream of Mesa Drive in the Santa Ana Heights area.

The primary goals of the project are to provide enhanced flood protection and habitat mitigation. Additionally, the existing trails in the area will be improved for regional connectivity and the Bayview Trail Bridge will be replaced. The county will also discuss planned outreach efforts throughout design and construction of the project.

Also during the study session, council will hear an overview of the city-owned Balboa Yacht Basin property, located at 829 Harbor Island Drive.

Currently developed with a 172-slip marina, storage garages, a restaurant, commercial retail and office uses, and several residential apartments, the property is almost fully occupied. Built in the 1950s, the buildings are approaching the end of their useful life and need significant investment.

The presentation will focus on the current state of the buildings and the possible opportunity to seek a private sector partner to redevelop it.

The council agenda is available online here. The study session will begin at 4 p.m., followed by the closed session, and then the regular meeting at 6:30 p.m.

The meeting can be watched live on the local NBTV channel (Spectrum 3 or Cox 852) or on the city’s website here.

Members of the public may speak in person in council chambers (there is not a remote or online option to participate).

Questions and comments can be submitted in writing for City Council consideration by sending them to the city clerk at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To give the council adequate time to review comments, submit any written comments by 5 p.m. on June 12 (the day before the City Council meeting). Correspondence received by this deadline will be uploaded to the agenda packet by June 12 at 5:30 p.m. and can be viewed here.

Material received after the deadline and prior to 2 p.m. on June 13 (the day of the meeting) will be provided to the council in hard copy and will be available to the public at the meeting.

~~~~~~~~

Sara Hall covers City Hall and is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

NAC rowing program accomplishes tremendous feat, announcing that all 11 seniors will move on to college programs in the fall

Just the other day I received one of those emails that certainly catches your eye. It said, “It would be great if you could mention this amazing team. I don’t think any OC sports program can claim every senior (11 of them) on the team got recruited to college. These girls have put in an amazing amount of time and effort to get to this level of national recognition.”

The email was sent by someone connected to the program. So obviously, we were thrilled to accommodate the request. It said, “(Two weeks ago) NAC (Newport Aquatic Center) celebrated their rowing program seniors with a college signing day. All 11 seniors on the NAC Women’s Varsity Rowing team will be rowing in college and heading off to nationals.”

The 11 included Vivi Spitz (UC Berkeley), Lauren Brown (UCLA), Hannah Hykes (University of Michigan), Breezy Kash (UC San Diego), Millie Clark (Harvard University), Sophie Pense (University of Kansas), Kat Odeen (Clemson University), Sarah Porter (Fordham University), Ruby Srinivasan (Harvard University), Michaela Banta (USC) and Charlie Shaughnessey (University of Miami).

Additionally, the NAC Women’s Team has had a record year and recently won the team trophy at US Rowing’s Southwest Regional Championships. The team is also currently competing with four boats at the US Rowing Youth Nationals in Sarasota, Fla.

Currently the Varsity 8 boat is ranked 4th in the nation in the latest coaches’ poll @rowers_choice.

Go Newport!

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Courtesy of Thomas Hauge @nac.crew.pics

The 11 college-bound NAC rowers, all proudly donning their future college colors

• • •

Two of my favorite people, City Councilmember Robyn Grant and Planning Commissioner Jon Langford, ventured off to Sacramento Wednesday of this week to represent and receive recognition for a group in town that’s so deserving of such. That group is FONBAS, otherwise known as the Friends of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter. Both Robyn and Jon have been intimately involved with FONBAS, with Jon in fact currently president of the organization.

So why were they in Sacramento? Good question, but the even better answer is that FONBAS has been awarded one of California’s 2023 Nonprofits of the Year after being nominated by California Assemblymember Diane Dixon. FONBAS was one of more than 100 nonprofits that were honored at the Capitol this week by their state senators and assemblymembers for outstanding contributions to the communities they serve.

Now in its eighth year, the Nonprofit of the Year initiative provides the opportunity for each California state legislator to choose a nonprofit organization doing outstanding work in their district. The program culminated with a recognition ceremony at the Capitol on California Nonprofits Day, which this year was June 7.

FONBAS, in case you don’t know, is dedicated to serving the needs of animals to restore their well-being and reunite them with their owners or find new forever homes. It was founded in 2017 by a group of local community leaders in a public-private partnership with the City of Newport Beach. Since then, FONBAS has been supplementing funding for the current Newport Beach Animal Shelter to provide upgraded amenities and medical care.

“The public-private partnership between FONBAS and the city is a remarkable example of the impact nonprofits can have in a community,” said City Councilmember and FONBAS Board Member Grant. “In this case, the partnership was funded entirely by private resources with the city as a recipient of valuable permanent amenities and infrastructure that benefit the community.”

FONBAS has just celebrated the completion of a multi-year capital campaign to purchase land and build a state-of-the-art animal shelter in the city. The new digs, which will open in July 2023, includes a single-story, 1,600-square-foot building with a 750-square-foot kennel to house dogs, cats and other animals, plus parking, two front yard greeting areas and a secure rear yard exercise space.

“With the completion of the new facility behind us, we will continue the important work of supplementing costly surgeries and other care for our animals – healthcare beyond the scope of a typical city,” said FONBAS Board President Langford.

How important are nonprofits such as FONBAS to our community? Well, according to “Causes Count,” a 2019 report commissioned by CalNonprofits, the nonprofit sector is the fourth largest industry in the state, employing more than 1.2 million people. Each year, California nonprofits generate more than $273 billion in revenue and bring in $40 billion in revenue from outside of California. The unpaid labor contributed by volunteers at nonprofits is equivalent to 330,000 full-time jobs every year.

“Assisting our seniors, educating our children, protecting the environment, caring for animals – this is the work nonprofits do and do well,” noted Assemblymember Dixon. “I am proud to present California Nonprofit of the Year to FONBAS to acknowledge their part in making a collective impact with other nonprofits in Assembly District 72 and across the State of California.”

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Submitted photo

(L-R) City Council and FONBAS Board Member Robyn Grant, Assemblymember Diane Dixon and FONBAS Board President Jon Langford proudly display recognition as a 2023 California Nonprofit of the Year

• • •

It’s that time of year for graduations, so here’s how it unfolded: Corona del Mar High School graduated on Thursday, June 8 on campus with the ceremony held from 2-4 p.m.

Newport Harbor walked that same evening from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Davidson Field.

The CdM Middle School promotion was held June 7 from 2-4 p.m. and Ensign Intermediate’s promotion was from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Ensign’s was also on Davidson Field.

Classes for 7-12 grades officially ended on Thursday, June 8 while those for TK through 6 end today, Friday June 9.

• • •

Next week, Miracles for Kids is doing something special in our city as they host their 12th Annual Surf & Paddle Camp, where critically ill children and their siblings can experience the joys of childhood at the beach.

Families will be afforded the opportunity to participate in free surfing and stand-up paddle (SUP) activities.

There will be two camp days – the first is next Wednesday, June 14 with Surf Day at Newport Beach Pier from 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

Then, next month the kids and families will again be invited to what this time will be SUP & Kayak Day at Newport Aquatic Center on Thursday, July 20, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Miracles for Kids is one of the only organizations around that provides monthly financial aid, subsidized housing and counseling to families fighting for their child’s life. For more info, go to https://miraclesforkids.org.

• • •

The Orange County Board of Supervisors voted earlier this week to limit alternate flags from flying over county properties, with the exceptions of those representing the state, county, U.S. and POW/MIA. The new policy was proposed by First District Supervisor Andrew Do.

Seeing as though the policy came down during the early stages of Pride Month, Do clarified, saying, “The flag policy that I proposed has nothing to do with any particular cause or social issue.”

Fourth District Supervisor Doug Chaffee, who also voted in the majority, added that he didn’t feel there was a need to single out a certain cause or group.

However, Supervisor Katrina Foley, whose district represents Newport Beach, was in the minority, adding, “The decision to prohibit flying the Pride flag during Pride Month sends the wrong message to our LBGTQ community and the values of most Orange County residents. Pride represents diversity, an inclusive community, a community that provides a space where people are safe to be who they are and love who they want.”

• • •

If you are out and about today, stop by Where’s the Party? at 270 E. 17th St. for a book signing with Ron Salisbury. He has penned, What They Don’t Teach You at the C.I.A. and will be sharing his book from 2-5 p.m. This might be just the Father’s Day gift you are looking for. Of course, Ron is also the owner of El Cholo in Corona del Mar (one of six), which is currently celebrating its 100th anniversary, as well as Louie’s by the Bay and The Cannery.

• • •

The Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce will feature City Finance Director and Treasurer Jason Al-Imam at their June 15 Government Affairs Committee meeting to be held at Industrious (8 a.m.), located at 100 Bayview Circle.

Al-Imam will offer up a city financial update.

The meeting is free, but to account for donuts, coffee and juice, the Chamber would request those who are planning to attend to RSVP here.

CdMRA Annual Town Meeting brought community members together for camaraderie, discussion of timely topics

The Corona del Mar Residents Association (CdMRA), founded 36 years ago, held their CdM Annual Town Meeting on Wednesday, June 7 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Sherman Library & Gardens.

The town meeting is a unique forum which brings together Corona del Mar residents, businesses, civic organizations and Newport Beach city officials to discuss issues, projects and opportunities which have a direct impact on the residential quality of life in Corona del Mar.

Tables throughout the courtyard represented a variety of city and community organizations, with this being the first year Stu News participated in the event. Community members mixed and mingled during the civic expo, with hosted refreshments and opportunity drawings for items donated by the Newport Beach Film Festival.

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Photos by Lana Johnson

The Corona del Mar Chamber table (L-R) CdM Chamber President and CEO Linda Leonhard, Bernie Svalstad (Executive Board vice-chair) and Laurie Horn, “Stroll Magazine”

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The CdMRA table with (L-R) Board Member Tom Callister (representing Irvine Terrace); Joy Brenner, past president and Paul Bartlau, board member

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(L-R) Kory Kramer (partner/principal with Eagle Four Partners) and Newport Beach Community Development Director Seimone Jurjis

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City of NB Arts Commission table with Chair Arlene Greer (left)

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Newport Beach Public Library table - Melissa Hatson, library services manager (center) with staff members

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FONBAS Board President and Planning Commissioner Jon Langford with City Councilmember and FONBAS Board Member Robyn Grant

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Newport Beach Fire Department table

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Ron (CdM retired architect) and Birgitta Yeo

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Newport Harbor Lawn Bowling Club President Andrew Dufresne

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Representative at the OASIS Senior Center table

Following the outdoor reception, the annual meeting moved indoors to a packed room.

According to CdMRA President Debbie Stevens, “Following a brief update on City Council activities from Councilwoman Lauren Kleiman (District 6), local author Mike Stockstill and H. Pike Oliver provided a summary of their book entitled Transforming the Irvine Ranch during the Speakers’ Program. The book tells the story of how the Irvine Company was formed and changed Orange County from 93,000 acres of farmland, some of which included portions of Newport Beach, into a landscape of beaches and modernist architecture.”

Attendees were taken through the earliest beginnings of CdM as a seaside village with historic cottages and the later formation of its surrounding communities like Shore Cliffs and the Cameo Community (Shores and Highlands).

For more information on the CdMRA, visit https://cdmra.org and their social media channels.

Brownies show their love for community and reading

Girl Scout Troop 1387 “Brownies” rolled up their sleeves to help paint and get erected a “Little Free Library” at Mariners Park, Newport Beach. Dedicated with a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, June 8, the troop invites the community to take a book, leave a book at the brightly colored blue box…no library card is required!

The Brownies (second graders) who participated are listed at the back of the Little Free Library on a plaque titled, “Readers today, Leaders tomorrow.”

Many thanks to Troop 1387 who are encouraging our community to read!

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Photos by Lana Johnson

Girl Scout Troop 1387 “Brownies” at the ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of the Little Free Library at Mariners Park

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(L-R) Heather Maddock (Brownie mom), Brownie Heather Maddock of Girl Scout Troop 1387 and City of Newport Beach Park Ranger Larry Jacklin) next to the Little Free Library

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Plaque on the back of the Little Free Library with names of the Girl Scout Troop 1387 Brownie

Preparing Newport Beach for a tsunami

On Wednesday, May 17, the City of Newport Beach activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in a drill setting, to participate in a region-wide tsunami exercise. The exercise provided an opportunity to train city EOC key and management staff, and collaborate and coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions. It is one of the many ways that the city prepares for a tsunami and other disaster events. The scenario for the exercise was a large 8.6 earthquake on the Alaskan Peninsula that would generate a tsunami strong enough to reach the Southern California coast, within five hours.

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Photos courtesy of NBPD

Staff members from various city departments gather in the Emergency Operations Center for the tsunami exercise

While this scenario is low-occurring, it is a high-risk event to the city’s coastal community. It is projected that more than 41,000 city residents live in the zone and would be at risk during a tsunami warning event. Residents can prepare for tsunami events, by identifying if they live in the city’s tsunami evacuation zone, signing up to receive emergency alerts here and creating a disaster go-bag.

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Image courtesy of NBPD

Have an Emergency Preparedness Kit updated and ready to go

Map courtesy of NBPD

Map shows the tsunami run up area for the City of Newport Beach

Editor’s Note: This is an ongoing series of community information provided by the Newport Beach Police Department.

Two stand-out wooden yachts join impressive line-up at Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival this weekend

After a several-year hiatus, the Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival is returning to the Balboa Yacht Club this Saturday, June 10 and will be open to the public from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

“As one of the West Coast’s premier events, the Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival brings together all facets of Newport Beach excellence in a themed, community-wide, family-friendly open house,” added event Vice-Chair Steve Paljieg.

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Photos by Tom Walker/courtesy of Wooden Boat Festival/Balboa Yacht Club

The event will showcase some of the most iconic wooden vessels from around the state, drawing more than 4,000 visitors in previous years

Among the 30-plus wooden vessels on display on land and in the water will be two of the world’s most iconic wooden yachts, Astor and Aviator.

Astor, an 86-foot double-masted schooner built in 1923, will celebrate her 100th birthday on the water during her visit to the festival. Known for her well-documented history and legendary yacht racing pedigree, Astor is famous in yachting annals and always makes a big impression on boating enthusiasts as well as classic yacht aficionados.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have one of yachting’s most impressive wooden vessels in our 2023 Wooden Boat Festival line-up,” stated Event Chair Mike Sullivan.

“Astor is a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship of traditional wooden boat building that goes back more than a century,” Sullivan added.

Originally built in 1923, Astor was commissioned by Sir Alexander McCormick, a surgeon from Sydney. Australia and built by William Fife & Son of Fairlie, Scotland. Astor was built with teak planks over English oak frames and bronze rivets. Throughout the yachting world, Fife remains synonymous with beauty, speed and quality. Only approximately 50 Fifes are still sailing and Astor is arguably one of the most outstanding. Originally named Ada, she is Fife’s design #704 and is listed in the book Fast and Bonnie by May Fife McCallum.

In 1959, Peter Warner of Sydney, Australia purchased Astor and had her fitted for racing. Though she had not raced in the past, she made a strong showing in 1962 at the Sydney to Hobart Race.

After being more than eight hours ahead in the race, it was a nail-biting fight to the finish and sadly, Astor lost by a mere 57 seconds to Ondine, a famous U.S. racing yacht. Despite the loss, it still stands as one of the most exciting finishes in Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race history. Warner also raced Astor to a corrected time of 4th in the 1963 Transpac to Hawaii.

From 1964-1987, Astor was owned by Dr. William Adolph and berthed in Marina del Rey, Calif. Primarily used as a family yacht, Dr. Adolph and his four sons sailed Astor extensively throughout Hawaii, Mexico and California.

In 1987, Astor was restored by Richard and Lani Straman of Newport Beach. The Stramans, along with their daughter Mariah, went on to race in the Hamilton Island Race Week in Australia, and won the Kona Kai International Yacht Club’s America Schooner Cup Race five consecutive times. Astor has also won the Newport Harbor Yacht Club’s Opening Day Race eight times and has cruised the South Pacific for more than six years.

Another stand-out of the event is Aviator, a 94-foot World War II-era, downed rescue pilot vessel that will be on display and available for tours. After being moth-balled for decades after the war ended, Aviator was lovingly restored by owner Nico Santucci into a state-of-the-art, world-class luxury yacht.

Aviator was built during World War II and served in the military as a downed pilot rescue boat. During her service, Aviator was an Air Sea Rescue (ASR) vessel and performed coordinated searches of those who survived emergency water landings while in battle.

According to The Log, the military no longer used Aviator after the war ended in 1945. “When I came across this abandoned and deteriorating 1944 warship in Newport Beach, I was riveted by her silhouette and sense of slumbering power. Her enduring beauty captivated me,” Santucci said.

Aviator was decommissioned just prior to being deployed as the war came to an end. She was eventually sent to Burger Yachts, known as the best yacht builders in the world at the time, where she was converted to a state-of-the-art pleasure yacht by her then owner Dick Loderhose. Aviator was one of only two ASR vessels to be converted into pleasure.

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In addition to being able to view and board more than 30 wooden boats, the family-friendly event also includes live music, maritime art and exhibits, vendors, food and libations, and a silent auction

The Wooden Boat Festival was established in 2015 by the late Ralph Rodheim, a BYC member, community leader and wooden boat enthusiast, who envisioned the festival as yachting’s equivalent to a Concours d ’Elegance, a competition of elegance where prestigious vessels are displayed and judged for best in class.

The event will showcase some of the most iconic wooden vessels from around the state, drawing more than 4,000 visitors in previous years. In addition to being able to view and board more than 30 wooden boats, the family-friendly event also includes live music, maritime art and exhibits, vendors, food and libations, and a silent auction.

As is custom, each year an original painting commemorating the festival is created and sold during Saturday’s silent auction. This year’s featured artist is the renowned local artist, Scott Kennedy.

Hosted by Balboa Yacht Club, the event is also made possible in collaboration with the City of Newport Beach, the County of Orange and Visit Newport/Newport Beach & Co.

In 2017, the event was officially recognized by the Orange County Board of Supervisors, who proclaimed the second weekend in June the “Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival Weekend.”

Complimentary parking and shuttle service will be available at 1600 E. Coast Highway, Newport Beach (turn onto Clubhouse Drive from PCH and follow the signage). Entry to the event is $10 for adults, with children 12 and under free.

For more information, visit www.newportbeachwoodenboatfestival.com, or call 949.673.3515.

Newport Beach Fire Department conducts Badge Pinning Ceremony

On Wednesday, June 7, the Newport Beach Fire Department held a Badge Pinning Ceremony in the Community Room at the City of Newport Beach’s Civic Center. Fire Chief Jeff Boyles, with assistance from Assistant Fire Chief Justin Carr, conducted the festivities.

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Photos courtesy of NBFD

Assistant Fire Chief Justin Carr (R) leads the Oath of Office to all of the new badge recipients

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Newport Beach Fire Chief Jeff Boyles (at podium) addresses a full house awaiting the pinning ceremony

Presentations of badges went to Josh Leith (Fire Services Coordinator), Rob Marienthal (Lifeguard Officer), Carly Christian (Lifeguard Officer), Natalie May (Lifeguard Captain), Gavin Wright (Lifeguard Captain), Michael Pasmant (Life Safety Specialist II), Jon Reid (Life Safety Specialist III), Tyler Easton (Firefighter), Roman Pagano (Firefighter), Eric Sanchez (Firefighter), Chris Swisher (Firefighter), Brett Finicle (Firefighter/Paramedic), Brett McAllister (Firefighter/Paramedic), Robert Binkerd (Fire Engineer), Paul Cortes (Fire Engineer), Dylan Nowakowski (Fire Engineer), Anthony Terzo (Fire Engineer), Keith Hedenberg (Fire Captain), Dean Rush (Fire Captain) and James Gillespie (Fire Marshal).

The department also recognized Melissa Miles (Fire Services Coordinator) and Raymund Reyes (Administrative Manager).

Airport Commission approves contracts for improvements to escalators, restrooms, accessibility

By SARA HALL

The Orange County Airport Commission this week unanimously approved two contracts for major upcoming capital improvement projects related to the airport’s escalators and terminal accessibility.

In separate items, commissioners voted 4-0 (Vice Chair Brendan O’Reilly was absent) on Wednesday (June 7) to award two design-build contracts to Swinerton Builders for the first phases of both JWA’s vertical conveyance system improvement project and terminal accessibility improvement project.

Overall, commissioners were supportive of the projects and discussed timelines, renovation versus replacement, funding, marketing local attractions, and more. There were also some comments about the low turnout from builders.

Answering a question from Commission Chair Susan Dvorak about why only one company responded to the request for qualifications, OC Facilities Design & Construction Justin Golliher said they are trying to figure that out. Although the low response isn’t happening with just these projects, he noted, throughout advertising of their other county projects they aren’t getting as many respondents as is typical. It could be due to the current market and imminent potential recession, and that procurement of materials and equipment is still challenging.

“Respondents to these projects is (also) challenging. Specifically in our area, when you have billions of dollars being invested up and down the road in San Diego and L.A. (projects), that eats up a lot of the capacity of contractors to be able to respond to these things. And then, on top of that, this particular work is fairly specialized,” Golliher said.

The two-step RFQ/RFP process for both contracts started in late January and completed in late March/early April. Thousands of contractors were notified via an online bidding system, he explained.

Although just one company responded, they were still thoroughly evaluated and are qualified for this type of work. Swinerton Builders also has an impressive record, Golliher noted, their history of local work goes back nearly a century, including some recent major administration building projects for the county. The company California contractor’s license is number 92, he pointed out, the same number it obtained in 1927 when the state first began issuing licenses.

“They are a well-known builder,” Golliher said. “We’re happy to have their expertise working on these projects.”

Swinerton was tuned in and won the two consecutive contracts, something that other companies will likely notice and “sharpen their pencils,” he added.

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Courtesy of John Wayne Airport

The OC Airport Commission approved significant contracts for upcoming capital improvement projects at John Wayne Airport

During another topic of discussion, Commissioner Sal Tinajero commented that the airport could do a better job of branding who they are as a location. Moving forward, they should market themselves and highlight the local visitor destinations, he said, naming off several local OC attractions.

“Our airport is also an arm of our economic development in all of our cities around the county,” Tinajero said, suggesting that when visitors arrive to JWA they could highlight some of the county’s amazing places. “I’m excited to be on the commission while we’re doing these renovations because you get a little bit of input. I think we have an opportunity to just get better.”

“We are really working on our branding and, as we call it in the industry, sense of place. The overall goal is when we have our guests in the terminal that they actually know that this is Orange County,” answered Airport Director Charlene Reynolds.

She mentioned that JWA is working to rehabilitate all of the airport’s concessions program. When they went out for RFP, they told potential tenants that they are looking for local food and beverage vendors.

This idea of “sense of place” also translated to other projects, like the bathroom design, she added.

“So, as we make these major decisions in the airport it’s always first of mind creating that unique Orange County atmosphere,” she said, noting that at one point JWA’s retail program didn’t have many items that said “Orange County” on them. (After she did an interview, the retailers took notice and now there are now plenty of available OC items.) “As the director, it’s my role to demand that from our concessionaires and to lead that effort and require that as we build these programs. And that’s something certainly I’m working on.”

Both projects discussed at this week’s meeting were also mentioned during a May 17 meeting about OC Public Works and JWA’s three-year Capital Improvement Program.

Each year, OC Public Works leads the multi-agency effort to develop and compile the CIP for OC Board of Supervisors’ approval. On May 10, 2022, the board approved the current CIP for fiscal year 2022-23 to FY 2028-29. A major change is that it incorporated the CIP for John Wayne Airport. This is the first year of a collaborative effort between OCPW and JWA to develop the program.

The aim of JWA’s program is to modernize the airport’s facilities and enhance safety, security, accessibility and convenience for its passengers. Through the CIP program, they can pursue funding, like federal grant opportunities.

The accessibility improvements are a major project that will be done in phases, Golliher said. The airport recently conducted a detailed accessibility assessment and identified improvements needed to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act requirements including, but are not limited to, the path of travel/pavement reconstruction; signage, handrail and guardrail improvements; elimination of protruding objects and installation of required detection systems; restroom accessibility improvements, and various other adjustments and/or replacements for fixtures around the airport, such as drinking fountains, etc.

The first phase is the restroom renovation and exterior path of travel improvements. The second phase covers terminal accessibility and is budgeted for $3.3 million. In phase three, the improvements will be focused on the TSA screening and checkpoint locations at each terminal and will be approximately $4.5 million.

The contract approved this week for phase one has a guaranteed maximum price of about $28.07 million, which included $3.52 million for the design services and pre-construction phase. Upon the OC Board of Supervisors approval, it will be completed within 914 calendar days of the effective date of the notice to proceed.

Phase one focuses on restroom renovations and path of travel improvements.

The project can essentially be described in two portions: Interior improvements and exterior improvements, Golliher said.

The interior improvements include the remodeling renovation and modernization of 12 public restrooms in terminals A and B. The renovations include, but are not limited to, replacement of aging infrastructure such as plumbing fixtures, electrical fixtures, toilet partitions, heating/ventilation/air conditioning components, lighting, visual and audible alarms, drinking fountains and will provide changing tables and automatic door openers.

They are fairly typical restroom features, he noted, but one element that’s unique is the installation of two lactation pods to help nursing mothers. They will also be offering adult changing tables, which is a new ADA requirement. There have been requests from the public about that particular item, Golliher added.

“It’s a design build, so we need to work through the design process where we’ll iron all this stuff out,” he said.

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Presentation screenshot/renderings courtesy of OCPW

Conceptual renderings of the JWA restroom improvement project

He shared some possible conceptual renderings of the restrooms that featured a modern style. They are looking to integrate different colors and features that represent Orange County, like beach-inspired designs. They are also researching options so that the design can be changed out fairly easily, both for maintenance purposes if there’s any damage and as an easy way to refresh the look of the space.

Regarding the exterior improvements, there are three components: Path of travel from Campus Drive to the tunnel; path of travel from MacArthur through the parking structure to the terminal; and the curbside for the arrivals and departures level (sidewalks, curb ramps, etc.).

The path of travel improvements will demolish approximately 12,000 square feet of concrete curbs, storm outlets, cleanout covers, cleanout rims; provide minor excavation of soils, as necessary, to correct general curb conditions; relocate existing curb cuts and/or install new curb cuts; correct slopes and cross slopes along the path of travel, as needed; correct slopes and/or configurations of ADA ramps as required; new and reconfigured pavement striping to establish the path of travel across vehicular pathways; provide all necessary ADA signage; provide new or replace existing truncated domes; remove existing bollards and patch back concrete to provide ADA curb cut access; repaint existing curbs; extend existing guard rails and provide new guard rails where necessary and provide new 24-inch-wide concrete barriers for pedestrian protection at the MacArthur Boulevard entrance.

Answering commissioner questions, Golliher said there shouldn’t be too much work that will impact traffic on the roadway, other than at the crosswalks. During the pre-construction phase they will do their due diligence and identify all of the specific issues that need to be addressed and rebuilt. They won’t just tear up everything and replace all of it, he said.

“We’ll just have to work through phasing so that we minimize interruptions,” he said.

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Courtesy of John Wayne Airport

JWA is also working on improvements to all of the escalators and elevators at the airport

Over the next three fiscal years, JWA will undergo improvements to all of the airport’s vertical conveyance systems. In four phases, the project will replace the 28 elevators and nine escalators in the terminal complex and parking structure. This week’s contract was for phase one. Phases two is budgeted for $16 million, phase three is $20.7 million and the final phase will be $25.2 million.

The phase one contract approved this week has a guaranteed maximum price of about $18.98 million, which included $3.04 million for the design services and pre-construction phase. The work for guaranteed maximum price is to be completed within 892 calendar days of the effective date of the notice to proceed. After receipt of the NTP for phase 1, the contractor will initiate design, comply with all design submission requirements and obtain county review of each submission. Phase I includes design and pre-construction services. Phase II will include construction phase services, including construction work and any other additional work.

Wrapping in the technology, safety and functional issues into it, there might be a risk of not being done in time, noted Commissioner Bruce Junor noted. All that work in under 900 days is a big task.

“And all that’s done before you switch off the escalator,” Junor said.

During the next phase of work, timing it just right (closing or demolishing one escalator but finding out the next step isn’t going according to plan, while also ensuring another is available for a detour, for example) could also be challenging, he added.

“I sure hope somebody has really gone through the nuts and bolts of the whole thing,” Junor said. “What’s to prevent us from going upside down (on the timing)?”

Customer experience and mobility is a big concern, Golliher emphasized. The work will be phased, he added, so not all the escalators will be removed at the same time.

“When we’re phasing the project, we’ll figure out the logistics, specifically,” he said.

There will be alternative paths of travel, he emphasized. For example, when escalator one is demolished, escalators two and three will remain up. The elevators will also still be operational at that time, he added.

The first phase of the project includes the demolition and replacement of escalators 1-6 in Terminals A and B, which were installed in 1990 and will improve safety, reliability and access.

“That’s really the primary driver, it’s end of life, they need to be replaced and we’ll get all the other benefits and we’ll bring them up to (current) standards,” Golliher said.

The service life of escalators is typically about 25 years, he said.

While it would be feasible to do a modernization and re-use the existing parts, that wouldn’t address all of the issues, Golliher explained. For example, the standards have changed regarding the required number of flat steps at the bottom and top of escalators, which changes the geometry of the structure and couldn’t be accommodated by simply updating the existing escalator.

The project includes, but is not limited to, demolition of all equipment, steps, trusses, pits, cladding, handrails, balustrades and end modules; demolition of adjacent building and finishes, where necessary, to accommodate new escalator dimensions, including nearby walls, glazing and other areas that potentially interfere with demolition of the existing escalators and installation of the new escalators; demolition of the pits on the lower level to expand the pit size for larger seismic movement criteria to install new slip joints at the lower end; installation of new escalators, including, but not limited to, all equipment, steps, trusses, pits, cladding, handrails, balustrades and end modules; restoration of building components, including glazing and finishes and installation of new seismic slip joints in expanded pits.

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Sara Hall covers City Hall and is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

You Must Remember This: Marion Morrison…but he goes by “Duke”

By NANCY GARDNER

There was a time in our fair town when not a weekend passed without a couple of guys going at it. Every summer someone would have a lot of checks in the winner’s box and be deemed the local champion. One summer, per my father, this was a fellow named Lynn Berlin who was undefeated. If some out-of-towner dared to challenge him, the locals all put their money on Berlin.

One Saturday night, a couple of strangers were ensconced in a corner booth in the Green Dragon. One of them was a tall, rangy guy who didn’t say anything, just quietly nursed his drink. His buddy, though, was anything but silent. Not only was his chatter constant, it was offensive. He had the nerve to insist his pal, the quiet man, could whip anyone in the place. Cancel that. He could beat anyone in the whole damn town.

That was a challenge that couldn’t be ignored. Word went out, a crowd began to gather and soon Lynn Berlin showed up. He went over to the booth where the tall guy and his gabby partner sat and suggested if he thought he was so high and mighty how about the two of them have a go, see which one of them showed true grit. The guy got up from the booth, and everyone headed for the beach area in front of the Rendezvous, the normal dueling ground. Unfortunately, Callihan the cop was making his rounds, and he wasn’t in the mood for any fighting that night in his city. There was a general feeling of letdown. The locals had really been looking forward to Berlin taking out the stranger and shutting up his obnoxious pal. Then someone suggested they drive across the river: plenty of beach, no Callihan – great idea. Everyone jumped in their cars and once across the river they formed a rough circle, creating a quasi-boxing ring illuminated by the headlights.

Anticipation was sky high and then it went into the stratosphere. The guy’s pal said he would cover any bets. The locals couldn’t pull the money out of their pockets fast enough, every cent they had. With what they’d make off the fight, they’d be in fat city for the next month. Bets in place, the two squared off, and it was over almost before it began. Berlin led with a right, the stranger countered with a huge left hook, and Berlin landed on his face, out like a light. Nobody could believe it. Berlin never lost. That’s why they’d put all their money on him and now…As they were slumping away, someone thought to ask the stranger’s name. “Morrison,” his friend said. “Marion Morrison, but he goes by Duke.”

That fight ended well for Morrison. Another local fight, this one with the ocean, didn’t go so well. He was bodysurfing here, came down wrong and broke his collarbone. At the time he was attending USC on a football scholarship. The injury cost him his scholarship, and as a result he had to drop out of college. Well, we all know what happens to college dropouts. Poor guy. Only one Oscar.Only one airport named for him, a local park. Just think what he might have accomplished if he’d gotten his degree.

And just as a tease, there are four John Wayne movie titles hidden above. 

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Nancy Gardner, former Mayor of Newport Beach, long-time resident and daughter of Judge Robert Gardner, is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

City of Hope Orange County grateful patients offer survivorship advice

Cancer changes you, and each patient’s experience is unique, but there is hope for the future after a cancer diagnosis, said grateful patients at City of Hope Orange County.

There are millions of cancer survivors, including many in your community and some you may even know. Since 1991, overall cancer mortality has dropped by 33 percent. And thanks to groundbreaking research and advanced treatments, the number of cancer survivors is expected to increase by more than 24 percent by 2032.

In observance of National Cancer Survivors Month, City of Hope is sharing insights on how to face a cancer diagnosis from those who know best – survivors who have gone through it themselves.

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Courtesy of City of Hope

Grateful patients rode the Great Park Balloon to celebrate the first day of patient care at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center in 2022

Find a physician who is an expert in your specific type of cancer.

“Originally, a PET scan had found cancer in 14 places throughout my body. This was about as serious as things could get. I wanted a specialist who has cancer research expertise and knowledge about advanced therapies that could be right for me. I knew that would make all the difference,” said John Ryan of Westminster.

Accept help, even if it’s hard at first.

“Support is everything when you’re fighting cancer. It is a blessing to have family to lean on and other people who also really care and want to help. I find that not keeping it private and not being afraid to ask for help makes a huge difference,” said Peg Berens of Laguna Hills.

Grow a positive mindset.

“Healing starts in the five inches between your ears. You can do it. My family and I sure did it, and we’re going to keep doing it,” said Jim Madrid of Laguna Niguel.

Get the treatment you need in as few trips as possible.

“How can you concentrate on healing if you’re stressed trying to schedule appointments and keep track of everything at multiple locations? Being able to get comprehensive cancer care in one place means I spend less time traveling and more time with my family,” said Heidi Paolone of Coto de Caza.

Set goals for your future.

“If you have something to shoot for, it makes you want to see tomorrow, and then hopefully you’ll see it,” said Will Godoy of Mission Viejo.

Keep doing the things that bring you joy.

“What I want is to be positive and be me. You want to be positive when you have cancer – get enough sleep, eat good food, and drink a glass of red wine to celebrate life, not panic about it. That’s my philosophy,” said Bonnie Nolan of Newport Beach.

Never give up.

One consistent message from these survivors was: Never give up. Keep fighting. Cancer can push you to your limits, but do not underestimate the strength of your will to survive. That inner strength lives in each of us. Trust that yours will help you through.

For more information on City of Hope Orange County, visit www.cityofhope.org/oc.

Regattas and Races…

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Photo by Bronny Daniels | Joysailing.com

2023 Twilight Series – June Series

Balboa Yacht Club

Wednesday, June 7

H20 A Fleet (3 races scored)

1 Dragon Lady, Ed Kimball, ALYC, 1-1-1=3

2 Checkers, G. Newman, BYC, 4-4-4=12

2 Rascal II, N. Madigan/K. Madigan, NHYC, 4-4-4=12

H20 B Fleet (3 races scored)

1 Jubilee, Kincaid/Devlin, BCYC, 1-2-1=4

2 Simpatica, Kimme/Carlson, BYC, 2-1-2=5

H20 C Fleet (3 races scored)

1 Aquanesia, Wyatt/Haynes, BYC, 2-2-1=5

2 Lucky Puff, Robertson/Cannon, BYC, 1-1-4=6

3 Adios, P. Bretschger/K. Bretschger, BYC, 3-4-2=9

4 Rhapsody, M. Mueller/L. Mueller, BYC, 4-3-3=10

5 Friday, P. Zorayan/T. Zorayan, LIYC, 6-5-5=16

6 Spiritus, Grable/Gibson/Vorona, BYC, 5-6-6=17

7 N/A, B. Wheeler, BYC, 8-8-8=24

Thistle Fleet (2 races scored)

1 White/Meyer, BCYC/LMVYC, 1-2=3

2 Larzelere/McDaniel, BYC, 3-1=4

3 Chuck Simmons, BYC, 2-3=5

4 R. Maxwell/M. Maxwell, BYC, 5-5=10

ILCA Fleet (2 races scored)

1 A. Andrews, BYC, 1-1=2

2 M. Arrigo, NHYC, 2-2=4

3 B. Hemphill, BYC, 3-4=7

4 R. Vandervort, BYC, 6-3=9

5 R. Luttrell, BYC, 4-5=9

Lido 14 A Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Papadopoulos/Corsi, WSAOC, 1-1=2

2 Boudreaux/Quinn, BYC, 3-2=5

3 K. McRae/Gorski/Ja. McRae/Jo. McRae, ABYC, 2-3=5

Lido 14 B Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Waniak/Cain, BYC, 1-1=2

2 R. Long/Swan, BYC, 3-3=6

Adult Sabot A Fleet (2 races scored)

1 M. Lynch, BYC, 1-1=2

2 M. Bartell, BYC, 3-2=5

3 K. Luttrell, BYC, 2-5=7

4 E. Foy, BYC, 4-3=7

5 D. Bartell, BYC, 8-4=12

6 S. Jennings, BYC/NHYC, 5-7=12

7 D. Allison, BYC, 6-8=14

8 L. Acosta, DPYC, 10-6=16

9 L. Ungerland, BYC, 7-9=16

10 G. Kalscheur, BYC, 9-10=19

Adult Sabot B Fleet (2 races scored)

1 C. Harmon, BYC, 1-1=2

2 S. Ware, SSC, 2-3=5

3 K. Stockman, BYC, 4-2=6

4 S. Cannon, BYC, 3-4=7

Junior Sabot Fleet (0 races scored)

1 Lin Zhou, SSC, 0

1 Heidi Swartzbaugh, BYC, 0

1 Jack Swartzbaugh, BYC, 0

1 Z. Whitton, BYC, 0

Opti Fleet (2 races scored)

1 C. Lorentzen, BYC, 1-1=2

2 A. Whitton, BYC, 3-2=5

3 T. Goodman, BYC, 5-5=10

3 W. Ramsay, BYC, 5-5=10

BCYC Taco Tuesday Series

Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club

Tuesday, June 6

PHRF A Fleet (3.8-mile course)

1 Destroyer, Jim Bailey, NHYC

   Elapsed Time 0:35:57, Corrected Time 0:32:39

2 XLR8, Gabriel Nistor, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:44:58, Corrected Time 0:38:49

3 Legacy, Brian Dougherty, BCYC

   Elapsed Time ##########

3 Table 9, Tyler Wolk, BYC

   Elapsed Time ##########

PHRF B Fleet (2.7-mile course)

1 Shadow, Steve Fink, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:31:30, Corrected Time 0:25:50

2 Kaizen, David Camerini, WSA-OC

   Elapsed Time 0:33:08, Corrected Time 0:27:01

3 Rhythm, Roger Gooding, SBYRC

   Elapsed Time 0:33:19, Corrected Time 0:28:11

4 Violetta, Jane Hartley, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:34:25, Corrected Time 0:29:25

5 Man O’War, James Malm, NHYC

   Elapsed Time 0:35:35, Corrected Time 0:29:47

6 Ventus, Team BCYC, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:40:12, Corrected Time 0:30:58

7 Buena Vista, Berkley Greene, ALYC

   Elapsed Time 0:37:26, Corrected Time 0:31:16

8 Healer, Larry Kliger, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:37:42, Corrected Time 0:32:40

9 Miss Informed, Jeff Tighe, BYC

   Elapsed Time ##########

9 Lickity Split, Andrew Whittingham, WSAOC

   Elapsed Time ##########

PHRF C Fleet (1.9-mile course)

1 Celia, Jim Oconnor, ALYC

   Elapsed Time 0:31:36, Corrected Time 0:24:48

2 Halcyon II, Bob Kafka, BCYC

   Elapsed Time 0:31:58, Corrected Time 0:24:56

3 Bella Rose, Rose Henigman, ALYC

   Elapsed Time 0:32:29, Corrected Time 0:25:27

H20A Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Shana’s Secret, Thompson/Conzelman, BCYC, 1-1=2

2 Jubilee, Yates/Kincaid, NHYC, 2-2=4

3 12, Robert McDonald, NHYC, 3-3=6

3 Hula Girl, Hill/Manning, BCYC, 3-3=6

3 Only Child, L. Bose/J. Bose, BCYC, 3-3=6

3 Summer Dream, Cheadle/Schupak, BYC, 3-3=6

H20B Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Spirit, D. Haynes/P. Haynes, BCYC, 1-1=2

2 Whatever, Hurlimann/Fischbacher, WSO, 2-2=4

3 Mili’Apa, Watanabe/Sutherland, UCISA, 4-3=7

4 Tiger, J. Bubb/M. Wiley, NHYC, 3-4=7

5 Chloe, Campbell/Stratman, BYC, 5-5=10

5 Rhapsody, P. Killian/C. Killian, BYC, 5-5=10

H20C Fleet (2 races scored)

1 Painfully Dry, Diercksmeier/Cohen, NHYC, 2-1=3

2 Adreneline, E. Foy/P. Noring, BYC, 1-3=4

3 Symbo, B. Symes/LL Symes, NHYC, 4-2=6

4 Amazing Grace, J. Weightman/L. Mark, BYC, 3-5=8

5 Shazam, Alfano/Shinrock, ALYC, 5-4=9

6 No Name, P. Zorayan/T. Zorayan, LIYC, 6-6=12

7 Rascal II, Bacon/Wyatt, BCYC, 7-7=14

8 Dragon Lady, Sangster/Kimball, LIYC, 8-8=16

8 Kalani II, Ibbetson/Thornton, SYC, 8-8=16

8 Cool H20, George Hampton, BCYC, 8-8=16

8 Aquanesia, Wyatt/Moosman, BYC, 8-8=16

8 Adios, P. Bretschger/K. Bretschger, BYC, 8-8=16

8 Ocho, Turner/Wiese, NHYC, 8-8=16

ALYC Sundowner Series

American Legion Yacht Club

Monday, June 5

H20B (5 races scored)

1 Jublilee, Patrick Kincaid, 1-1-1-1-1=5

2 Spirit, Debra Haynes, 2-3-2-2-2=11T

3 Summer Dream, Tucker Cheadle, 2-2-2-2-3=11T

H20C (5 races scored)

1 Whim, Hubie Laugharn, 1-4-2-2-1=10

2 Friday, Puzant Zorayan, 3-2-5-1-3=14T

3 Shazam, Stephen Alfano, 2-1-4-3-4=14T

4 Hula Girl, Derek Matheson, 4-4-1-4-2=15 

5 Dragon Lady, Kathy Sangster, 4-4-3-4-5=20

6 Breezyracer, William “Bill” Schneider, 4-4-6-4-5=23T

6 Amazing Grace, Judy Weightman, 4-4-6-4-5=23T

J22 (5 races scored)

1 Chol, Min Choi, 2-1-1-3-1=8

2 Pinckney, Gale Pinckney, 1-3-3-1-2=10

3 Dromgoole, Glen Dromgoole, 3-2-2-4-2=13

4 Boulton, Alex Boulton, 4-3-3-2-2=14

5 Bents, Robert Bents, 4-3-3-4-2=16

PHRF A (5 races scored)

1 XLR8, Gabriel Nistor, 5-1-1-1-2=10T

2 Kaizen, David Camerini, 1-2-2-2-3=10T

3 Violetta, Jane Hartley, 3-3-3-3-1=13

4 Stella Maris, Ted Barry, 2-5-4-5-5=21

5 Boat Snack, Randall Newcomb, 4-4-5-6-4=23

6 Tikehau, Paul Prioleau, 5-5-6-4-6=26

7 dart, Michael Darr, 5-5-6-7-6=29

PHRF B (5 races scored)

1 Carioca, Bob Wine, 2-1-2-1-1=7

2 Hobo Flats, Louis Chappelear, 5-3-1-2-3=14

3 Buena Vista, Berkeley Green, 3-2-3-3-4=15

4 HOLOKAI, Ross & Bonnie McElfresh, 4-6-4-4-2=20

5 Horsefeathers, John Fuller, 1-6-5-6-6=24

6 Stanley’s Cup, Stanley (Bill) Tutton, 6-4-5-5-5=25

7 Rag Jag, David Rainville, 6-6-5-6-6=29

PHRF C (5 races scored)

1 CELIA, Jim O’Connor, 2-1-1-1-1=6

2 Mystery, Barbara Kelley, 4-2-2-2-2=12

3 Que Sera Sera, Rick Hancock, 1-5-3-4-3=16

4 No Ka Oi, Lori Romano, 3-5-4-3-3=18

News relating to racing in or around Newport Harbor should be forwarded to Tom Johnson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Sue Grant, founder of The Literacy Project, honored by the World Literacy Foundation, again

The Literacy Project founder and long-time Newport Beach resident Sue Grant was recently celebrated as a top five finalist at the World Literacy Summit for her outstanding contributions to end illiteracy. The 2023 Summit, held at Oxford University in London, welcomed 600 guests from 83 countries.

Grant, the passionate founder of The Literacy Project, was selected to present in front of the World Literacy Foundation’s distinguished panel of judges where she earned a top five finish. It was her second honor in front of this august group, previously earning a top five finish at the 2021 World Literacy Summit as a direct result of her leadership amidst the pandemic.

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photos

Sue Grant signing the World Literacy Summit 2023 Oxford Declaration

As a steward for youth literacy, Grant’s vision has driven The Literacy Project’s impact in three states – California, Utah and Arizona – and recently propelled its growth into New Mexico. To date, The Literacy Project has served more than 10,500 underserved students from low-income families. Grant’s perseverance has helped the nonprofit raise more than $4.8 million in funding to provide a reading program at “no cost” to both the child and school.

On the horizon, service to Philadelphia, Colorado and Texas are slated for the 2023-24 school year.

“The recognition as a top five finalist at the World Literacy Summit was an astounding moment for The Literacy Project,” said Grant. “This honor proves we have what it takes to help struggling readers attain a fundamental reading foundation for their future success. My goal is to expand across the USA and teach more disadvantaged youth how to read; it is a right they deserve. There are many ways to save the life of a child, the gift of literacy is one of them.”

The Literacy Project was founded in 2009 by Grant, who additionally serves as the organization’s Volunteer CEO. The project’s comprehensive instructional program improves both academic and attitudinal levels of students performing well below English proficiency standards. The program is aligned with Common Core and collaborative learning methods and is administered by Master Teachers who are product-trained experts and highly credentialed as reading and language arts specialists.

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(L-R) Angelica Kay (wife of founder), Sue Grant, Andrew Kay (founder/CEO of World Literacy Foundation), Mike Shaikh (Chair, World Literacy Foundation, Canada) and his wife, Linda

The nonprofit’s 30-hour program significantly improves a child’s ability to read, averaging skill increases from 76% to 129%. The Literacy Project accesses and enhances key phonic skills among struggling readers, promotes learning in a fun, social and interactive environment using proven methods to maximize the learning experience, while fostering self-sufficiency and economic success through academic achievement.

Additionally, The Literacy Project has been continuously recognized with the U.S. Congressional Special Recognition Award for its “Outstanding Service to the Community.”

For more information, go to www.literacyproj.org.

School Notes

News and notes from our colleges and universities

On May 20, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) awarded a total of 1,988 degrees, including 152 doctoral degrees, 390 master’s degrees, and 1,446 bachelor’s degrees to 1,957 students, some of whom earned multiple degrees.

Jacob Dyer, of Newport Beach, graduated with a BS in Information Tech & Web Science.

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is America’s first technological research university, encompassing five schools, more than 30 research centers, more than 140 academic programs including 25 new programs, and a dynamic community made up of more than 6,800 students and 110,000 living alumni.

Have your son or daughter register at their respective school to information forwarded to Stu News Newport at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

In a win-win with the Rose Bowl, Newport Beach will be back in their parade, and the queen and her court will be in ours

By GARY SHERWIN

Anyone up for some holiday cheer? No, I’m not talking July 4th, which is certainly a big one locally, but Christmas and New Year’s Day.

I know what you’re thinking. Come on, we’re just gearing up for summer. Let’s not rush through the rest of 2023 just yet.

I agree, because I’m still picking out which flip flops I want to wear for the next few months.

But the wheels that make the holidays magical don’t start on Thanksgiving. It begins now, including the earliest preparation for the Christmas Boat Parade.

But this year, there is even bigger news.

After an 18-year absence, Newport Beach will once again have a float in the iconic Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena on January 1, arguably the biggest event in the world on New Year’s Day.

The global platform of being in the parade is not to be underestimated. The city last had a float during the Newport Beach Centennial in 2006 featuring Mayor Don Webb and other city councilmembers which kicked off a year of local celebrations.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of Visit Newport Beach

Gary Sherwin

Why is it happening now? You can thank the outreach of Rose Parade board member and Newport Beach businessman Greg Custer and his board colleague from Pasadena, Steve Perry, who believed that we should reaffirm our longstanding ties to the Rose Parade.

If you know anything about local history, you’ll know that the Pasadena area was one of the city’s very first visitor markets and that the old Red Car Trolley brought people down from the area during the heat of the summer. Thousands of residents of Pasadena and San Marino were not only visitors but early second home investors in what was called Balboa during our early days.

But the ties with Newport Beach go even deeper. For many years, Rose Parade officials would bring candidates for Rose Queen to the Balboa Bay Club to see who had the poise and grace to meet and interact with people. After several social functions, one of those lucky women would be selected a Rose Queen.

That’s why both Custer and Perry thought it might be a great idea to reactivate our ties with the parade and approached us with the idea of having a float. They made a good case.

The Tournament of Roses, now in its 135th year, is broadcast in 217 countries, in more than 20 languages and is now an iconic part of New Year’s Day throughout Southern California and certainly the world. It’s a great way to tell any story, especially one about Newport Beach.

The Rose Parade has also served as inspiration for many of us who work on our own Christmas Boat Parade. In fact, for many years we didn’t even have a Grand Marshal of our holiday celebration but for inspiration, we looked to Pasadena.

As a result, we’ve since added this important symbolic leader to our own parade and 10 years ago we named actress Leslie Mann, who grew up in Corona del Mar and was one of the stars in the film Knocked Up, as our very first Grand Marshal. We’ve done it every year since.

The Rose Parade is a wonderful global platform to tell our story given the immense broadcast coverage of 45 million viewers in the U.S. and another 28 million internationally. The parade itself draws almost 700,000 attendees. Just about every major broadcast outlet in the U.S. airs the event, much of it live.

Now the real work begins on the Newport Beach float. This week, interviews are taking place with float builders to see who can develop a compelling design. After the builder is decided, a concept is approved and then sent to tournament officials before construction begins later this summer.

Although a lot of work begins now, most of the attention on the floats starts right after Christmas. One of the fun things is decorating the float with seeds and flowers and we expect to have a day for Newport Beach residents and families to come up and man the glue bottles to add their touches to the float.

The theme this year is “Celebrating a World of Music: The Universal Language.” Every float has to find a way to connect with that even if it is very broadly.

Now our grand idea is to have a parade within a parade. Why not celebrate our Christmas Boat Parade during the Rose Parade? It tells the story of our own iconic celebration during their iconic celebration.

I’m thinking of a large floral-filled yacht decked out for the holidays with small homes around it to honor the residents who decorate them for the “Ring of Lights” during the parade.

And as a cool fun fact, we have five former Rose Queens who currently live in Newport Beach. They made an appearance on our 2006 float. I think we should invite them again, including prominent resident Anne Wortmann.

How will we build a float that commemorates the Christmas Boat Parade and connects with a theme about music? I have no idea. Let’s see what the float builders have to say.

And, as a very special bonus as part of our partnership with the parade, the 2024 Rose Queen and her Court will appear in our Christmas Boat Parade as our Grand Marshals on Saturday night, December 16.

It’s also important to note that this is a competition, too, with each float vying for honors in different categories. The best entry from a city gets awarded the Mayor’s Trophy and we’re in it to win it. Bring it on float designers and let’s see what you can do.

The downside, of course, is that part of the requirement is to be at your float by 4 a.m. New Year’s Day for float judging, which means you’re up by 3 a.m. It will make for a rather unspectacular New Year’s Eve, but no matter.

It’s wonderful to see our reconnection with the iconic Rose Parade and we can thank both Custer and Perry for making it happen. To see our city televised around the world will be thrilling for sure, even if it means having to go to bed by 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.

Gary Sherwin is President & CEO of Visit Newport Beach and Newport Beach & Company.

Baroque Music Festival dives into the interpretation, inspiration and transcendence of the music of J.S. Bach, June 18-25

 The Baroque Music Festival, Corona del Mar, Newport Beach’s only resident professional classical music performing organization, returns with a Kaleidoscopic 43rd season. This year is a “Bach-Fest,” where a broad selection of music by the Baroque master is the festival’s focus. An exquisite boutique summer festival for accessible, smaller-scale concert-going awaits the local community. Specialist professionals will perform five Baroque music concerts over eight days, at beautiful venues in Corona del Mar and Newport Beach.

World-renowned Baroque violinist Elizabeth Blumenstock directs the season: curating and leading all but one (the Monday recital) of the festival’s performances. Blumenstock performs regularly with the 17th-century Guarneri violin on generous loan to her from the Philharmonia Baroque Period Instrument Trust. In addition to her artistic directorship of the Baroque Music Festival (since 2011), she serves as a concertmaster and soloist of Baroque orchestras and ensembles nationwide, and in Germany. Blumenstock’s choice of Baroque masterpieces for the 2023 Baroque Music Festival includes a stunning selection of sacred Bach cantatas; double, triple and sextuple concertos by Bach, Vivaldi and Telemann; two concerts themed around Bach’s imitators, and his “indestructible” mastery expressed through wide-ranging arrangements and a flute recital, including two of his rarely heard flute sonatas.

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Photos by ©Gary Payne

World-renowned Baroque violinist Elizabeth Blumenstock in rehearsal

“A Bach Kaleidoscope: The Master from Many Angles” is anchored by two Sunday afternoon concerts and features the festival orchestra. For the opening performance, the ensemble accompanies an array of soloists – all players from its ranks – in concertos for multiple instruments. Bach’s first orchestral suite completes the program in, astonishingly, its first performance at this 40+ year-old Baroque Music Festival.

Three evening concerts positioned between the larger-scale Sunday events present chamber ensembles and soloists. Monday evening’s Bach Flute Recital makes use of the excellent acoustics in the more intimate sanctuary of St. Michael & All Angels Church, Corona del Mar. Since the first Baroque Music Festival, Corona del Mar, in 1981, weeknight concerts have been held at Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar. This year, musicians will gather there on the Wednesday and Friday evenings of festival week for a fun pair of chamber concerts taking a lighter angle on Bach’s output.

The 43rd summer season will close with Darkness & Light, showcasing some of Bach’s most moving vocal music. Los Angeles-based soprano soloist Jennifer Ellis Kampani returns, joined by debuting Baroque specialist vocalists from further afield. The finale orchestra features pairs of viola da gambas and recorders, as well as baroque strings, oboes, bassoon and harpsichord.

In addition to the ticketed concerts, audiences are invited to enjoy Baroque music performed al fresco by South Coast Brass, beginning 45 minutes before each concert. At all performances, audience members and musicians enjoy mingling for conversation and refreshment at complimentary wine and waters receptions.

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Baroque Music Festival returns with a “Bach-Fest” in June

Concert Schedule:

–Sunday, June 18, 4 p.m. – St. Mark Presbyterian Church, Newport Beach

Concertos for Many!

Soloists from the festival orchestra (led by Elizabeth Blumenstock) in Bach’s triple concerto for flute, violin and harpsichord, BWV 1044; Telemann’s for three oboes and three violins; Vivaldi’s for three violins and more. Plus, Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 1 in its first-ever performance at this festival. Followed by a wine & waters reception on the patio with the musicians.

–Monday, June 19, 7:30 p.m. – St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church, Corona del Mar

A Bach Flute Recital: Stephen Schultz & Friends

Stephen Schultz (flute) and Corey Jamason (harpsichord) with a guest appearance by Elizabeth Blumenstock (violin) in a program of Bach, Telemann and Boismortier, including Bach’s flute sonatas in E-flat Major, BWV 1031 and A Major, BWV 1032. Followed by a wine & waters reception on the patio with the musicians.

–Wednesday, June 21, 7:30 p.m. – Sherman Library & Gardens, Corona del Mar

Flattery, Fugues & Frivolities

Gates open at 6:45 p.m. for complimentary wine in the Gardens. Intermission with coffee and cookies. Meet the musicians after the concert. Elizabeth Blumenstock and Jolianne Einem (violin), Rob Diggins (viola), Eva Lymenstull (cello) and Corey Jamason (harpsichord) present selections from Bach’s The Art of Fugue, music by PDQ Bach, Telemann’s Gulliver’s Travels and other works.

–Friday, June 23, 7:30 p.m. – Sherman Library & Gardens, Corona del Mar

Bach the Indestructible

Gates open at 6:45 p.m. for complimentary wine in the Gardens. Intermission with coffee & cookies. Meet the musicians after the concert. Lara Wickes (oboe), Michael Kaufman and Stella Cho (cello), Ian Pritchard (harpsichord) and strings join Blumenstock for ingenious arrangements of the Chaconne in D Minor, BWV 1004; the famous Prelude, BWV 846; the Italian Concerto, BWV 971 and more. Plus “Air on the G String” from Bach’s Third Orchestral Suite.

–Sunday, June 25, 4 p.m. – St. Mark Presbyterian Church, Newport Beach

Festival Finale: Darkness & Light

Soprano Jennifer Ellis Kampani, countertenor Jay Carter, tenor Jacob Perry, baritone Mischa Bouvier and the festival orchestra in cantatas BWV 106 (Actus Tragicus) and BWV 97, plus vocal pieces by Bach, Buxtehude, Bernard and Johann Christoph Bach. Followed by a wine & waters reception on the patio with the musicians.

–Subscriptions: $325 for all five concerts. Price includes reservable premium seating at each concert and a private post-concert dinner following the festival finale on Sunday, June 25.

–Single Tickets: Range from $45-$55 for individual concerts, for open seating.

–Students Go for Baroque rush tickets (age 12 and above): $5 on the day of the performance only, cash or Venmo only, with Student ID. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information, and to inquire about group bookings and their open dress rehearsal for students. This is exclusively for NMUSD families, thanks to support from the City of Newport Beach. The adult accompanying any NMUSD student(s) age 12 or over is also eligible for the $5 rush ticket rate. Proof of enrollment at an NMUSD school is required to receive the discounted rate.

–How to purchase: Festival subscriptions, single tickets and full venue information are available at https://bmf-cdm.org, or available by calling 949.760.7887 and leaving a message for a call back within 24 hours.

Upcoming happenings at OCMA

Rounding out the month of May and through June, in addition to the engaging exhibitions, OCMA has a variety of events and activities for all ages. From the summer mixer and artist talks to art and design workshops for kids and families and public tours, come discover what is happening at the Orange County Museum of Art.

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Photo by Reza Allah-Bakhshi/Capture Imaging

Public tours are held on June 6 at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.

Tuesday, June 6: Public tours at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Join a gallery educator for a 30-minute tour of current exhibitions. The tour invites conversation, questions and new ideas about art. Meet in the atrium at 1 p.m.

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Courtesy of OCMA

Bring Your Own Baby Tour & Tea

Wednesday, June 7: Art + Play (ages 0-2) from 10-11:30 a.m. Held the first Wednesday of the month, this tour is for new parents of tots 1 year and under to connect with each other and explore exhibitions. Enjoy a complimentary tea from Verdant café after the tour. Tickets are free and required. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event date.

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Photo by Jeff Mclane

Artist Talk with Sara Cain

Tuesday, June 13: Artist Talk: Sara Cain at 6 p.m. Los Angeles-based artist Sarah Cain paints exuberant abstractions that often extend beyond the canvas into installations, site-specific painting, stained glass and furniture, drawing from varied sources including expressionism, performance art, graffiti art and pop music. Join Cain in conversation with OCMA’s CEO and Director Heidi Zuckerman as they discuss creative compositions, interpretations of color and spatial transformations. Cain’s work is featured in the 13 Women: Variation l and 13 Women: Variation Il exhibitions. Tickets are free and required. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event date.

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Courtesy of OCMA

Art + Play for ages 0-2

Wednesday, June 14: Art + Play (ages 0-2) from 10-11:30 a.m. Held the second Wednesday of the month, explore fun ways to introduce art and creative thinking to children. View a current exhibition that inspires deeper engagement through playful artmaking activities for infants ages 0-2 and caregivers. Tickets are free and required.

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Courtesy of OCMA

Women in Wine: Burgers and Burgundy on June 16

Friday, June 16: Women in Wine: Burgers and Burgundy at 6 p.m. Indulge your taste buds with a selection of cru burgundy and a gourmet burger. Your choice of either beef or a plant-based patty. Burgers are provided by Populaire. Wine is provided by Argaux, sourced from Domaine Rougeout from Mersault, Burgundy. OCMA members receive $10 off the ticket price. Buy your tickets here.

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Courtesy of OCMA

Art + Play for ages 3-5

Wednesday, June 21: Art + Play (ages 3-5) from 10-11:30 a.m. Held the third Wednesday of the month, check out fun ways to introduce art and creative thinking for youngsters and their caregivers. Drop in anytime between 10 and 11:30 a.m. Tickets are free but required.

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Courtesy of OCMA

Family Fun for ages 3 and up

Saturday, June 24: Family Fun: Color Play (ages 3 and up) from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy playful artmaking activities and self-guided gallery explorations in this special kids day out. All families are welcome to this drop-in program. Let them know if you plan to attend by RSVPing here.

For more information on OCMA exhibitions and events, visit https://ocma.art.

Upcoming happenings at OCMA

Through June, in addition to the engaging exhibitions, OCMA has a variety of events and activities for all ages. From artist talks and burgers and burgundy to art and design workshops for kids and families along with public tours, come discover what is happening at the Orange County Museum of Art.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Jeff Mclane

Artist Talk with Sara Cain

Tuesday, June 13: Artist Talk: Sara Cain at 6 p.m. Los Angeles-based artist Sarah Cain paints exuberant abstractions that often extend beyond the canvas into installations, site-specific painting, stained glass and furniture, drawing from varied sources including expressionism, performance art, graffiti art and pop music. Join Cain in conversation with OCMA’s CEO and Director Heidi Zuckerman as they discuss creative compositions, interpretations of color and spatial transformations. Cain’s work is featured in the 13 Women: Variation l and 13 Women: Variation Il exhibitions. Tickets are free and required. Registration opens two weeks prior to the event date.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of OCMA

Art + Play for ages 0-2

Wednesday, June 14: Art + Play (ages 0-2) from 10-11:30 a.m. Held the second Wednesday of the month, explore fun ways to introduce art and creative thinking to children. View a current exhibition that inspires deeper engagement through playful artmaking activities for infants ages 0-2 and caregivers. Tickets are free and required.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of OCMA

Women in Wine: Burgers and Burgundy on June 16

Friday, June 16: Women in Wine: Burgers and Burgundy at 6 p.m. Indulge your taste buds with a selection of cru burgundy and a gourmet burger. Your choice of either beef or a plant-based patty. Burgers are provided by Populaire. Wine is provided by Argaux, sourced from Domaine Rougeout from Mersault, Burgundy. OCMA members receive $10 off the ticket price. Buy your tickets here.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of OCMA

Art + Play for ages 3-5

Wednesday, June 21: Art + Play (ages 3-5) from 10-11:30 a.m. Held the third Wednesday of the month, check out fun ways to introduce art and creative thinking for youngsters and their caregivers. Drop in anytime between 10 and 11:30 a.m. Tickets are free but required.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of The Estate of Alice Neel and David Zwirner

Celebrate the openings of three summer exhibitions

Friday, June 23: Public Opening from 6-8 p.m. Celebrate the openings of three new summer exhibitions: Alice Neel: Feels Like Home, Tony Lewis: CASUAL T and Yu Ji: A Guest, A Host, A Ghost. Light bites and drinks available for purchase.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of OCMA

Family Fun for ages 3 and up

Saturday, June 24: Family Fun: Color Play (ages 3 and up) from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy playful artmaking activities and self-guided gallery explorations in this special kids day out. All families are welcome to this drop-in program. Let them know if you plan to attend by RSVPing here.

Museum hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Closed Monday. For more information on OCMA exhibitions and events, visit https://ocma.art.

Upcoming happenings at OCMA

Rounding out the month of May and through June, in addition to the engaging exhibitions, OCMA has a variety of events and activities for all ages. From artist talks to art and design workshops for kids and families, and Women in Wine (Burgers and Burgundy), come discover what is happening at the Orange County Museum of Art in the month of June.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Jeff Mclane

Artist Talk with Sara Cain

Tuesday, June 13: Artist Talk: Sara Cain at 6 p.m. Los Angeles-based artist Sarah Cain paints exuberant abstractions that often extend beyond the canvas into installations, site-specific painting, stained glass and furniture, drawing from varied sources including expressionism, performance art, graffiti art and pop music. Join Cain in conversation with OCMA’s CEO and Director Heidi Zuckerman as they discuss creative compositions, interpretations of color and spatial transformations. Cain’s work is featured in the 13 Women: Variation l and 13 Women: Variation Il exhibitions. Tickets are free and required. Go here to register.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of OCMA

Art + Play for ages 0-2

Wednesday, June 14: Art + Play (ages 0-2) from 10-11:30 a.m. Held the second Wednesday of the month, explore fun ways to introduce art and creative thinking to children. View a current exhibition that inspires deeper engagement through playful artmaking activities for infants ages 0-2 and caregivers. Tickets are free and required.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of OCMA

Women in Wine: Burgers and Burgundy on June 16

Friday, June 16: Women in Wine: Burgers and Burgundy at 6 p.m. Indulge your taste buds with a selection of cru burgundy and a gourmet burger. Your choice of either beef or a plant-based patty. Burgers are provided by Populaire. Wine is provided by Argaux, sourced from Domaine Rougeout from Mersault, Burgundy. OCMA members receive $10 off the ticket price. Buy your tickets here.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of OCMA

Art + Play for ages 3-5

Wednesday, June 21: Art + Play (ages 3-5) from 10-11:30 a.m. Held the third Wednesday of the month, check out fun ways to introduce art and creative thinking for youngsters and their caregivers. Drop in anytime between 10 and 11:30 a.m. Tickets are free but required.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of The Estate of Alice Neel and David Zwirner

Celebrate the openings of three summer exhibitions

Friday, June 23: Public Opening from 6-8 p.m. Celebrate the openings of three new summer exhibitions: Alice Neel: Feels Like Home, Tony Lewis: CASUAL T and Yu Ji: A Guest, A Host, A Ghost. Light bites and drinks available for purchase.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of OCMA

Family Fun for ages 3 and up

Saturday, June 24: Family Fun: Color Play (ages 3 and up) from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy playful artmaking activities and self-guided gallery explorations in this special kids day out. All families are welcome to this drop-in program. Let them know if you plan to attend by RSVPing here.

Museum hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Closed Monday. For more information on OCMA exhibitions and events, visit https://ocma.art.

Corona del Mar Annual Town Meeting scheduled for June 7

The Corona del Mar Residents Association (CdMRA), founded 36 years ago, has announced its CdM Annual Town Meeting on Wednesday, June 7 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Sherman Library & Gardens, 2647 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar.

The town meeting is a unique forum which brings together Corona del Mar residents, businesses, civic organizations and Newport Beach city officials to discuss issues, projects and opportunities which have a direct impact on the residential quality of life in Corona del Mar.

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Courtesy of CdMRA

The CdMRA town meeting brings together the CdM community and city officials to discuss relevant issues, projects and opportunities

Their very popular Community Social and Expo (5:30-6:30 p.m.) starts the event and includes representatives from the City of Newport Beach, and local community organizations who will be on hand to answer questions about a wide range of topics including crime prevention; emergency planning; library, recreation and seniors’ programs; public works projects and so much more.

The Speakers’ Program (6:30-7:30 p.m.) features local author Mike Stockstill (Transforming the Irvine Ranch) who will take attendees through the earliest beginnings of CdM as a seaside village with historic cottages and the later formation of its surrounding communities like Shore Cliffs and the Cameo Community (Shores and Highlands). Councilmember Lauren Kleiman (District 6) will also provide an update of projects and issues impacting Corona del Mar.

Hosted refreshments and opportunity drawings for items donated by the Newport Beach Film Festival, local CdM businesses and others are all part of this event. With the beautiful backdrop of Sherman Gardens and the timely community topics, this is a not-to-miss event.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Please use the parking lot rear entrance at Sherman Library & Gardens.

Visit https://cdmra.org and their social media channels for additional information. RSVPs are appreciated.

Newport Beach Public Library’s Summer Reading Program runs from June 10 through July 29

The Newport Beach Public Library is rolling out its Summer Reading Program on Saturday, June 10. Children through 6th grade can participate in the Children’s Summer Reading Program.

Here’s how to get started:

Participants register on Beanstack by clicking here and keep track of their reading and activities to earn digital badges and prizes. Once you have registered on Beanstack, pick up your free paperback book at any library location! Complete the program for a chance to win the grand prize!

Photos courtesy of LBPL

Participants in the Summer Reading Program have a chance to win the grand prize

Kids can also write or draw book reviews throughout the summer. Each submitted book review will be entered into weekly prize drawings.

–Opening Day, Saturday, June 10

Head over to a Newport Beach Public Library location as they kick off their annual Summer Reading Program with a variety of fun activities all day long. Don’t forget to sign up on Beanstack on June 10 for an entry into the Opening Day Prize Drawing.

–CdM, Monday, June 12 at 3 p.m.

–Central, Tuesday, June 13 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 14 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, June 17 at 11 a.m.

Michael Rayner, Comedian Juggler

Join in the combination of hilarious tricks and stunts with uproarious stand-up comedy for kids. Michael Rayner’s show has been described as “preposterous brilliance” and “wacky jugglement.”

Click on photo for a larger image

You can read a book anywhere, even on the stairs

–CdM, Monday, June 19 at 3 p.m.

–Central, Tuesday, June 20 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 21 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, June 24 at 11 a.m.

Click on photo for a larger image

Get creative with words and crafts

Crafts: Find Your Voice With Words

There are so many ways to use words to express our unique selves. Make a journal, create word art, write your name in new and fun ways. Join the library to get crafty with words.

–CdM, Monday, June 26 at 3 p.m.

–Central, Tuesday, June 27 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 28 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, July 1 at 11 a.m.

Kyle Tiernan, Draw Along Art

Learn to draw with Kyle Tiernan. Participants will follow along and complete three fun illustrations to take home in this engaging art program for children. All supplies are provided.

Summer Reading Program events are generously funded by the Friends of the Library. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all events. Space is first come, first seated and limited by room capacity. Materials are available while supplies last. More information can be found at www.newportkids.org.

Newport Beach Public Library’s Summer Reading Program runs through July 29

The Newport Beach Public Library rolled out its Summer Reading Program on Saturday, June 10. Children through 6th grade can participate in the Children’s Summer Reading Program.

Here’s how to get started:

Participants register on Beanstack by clicking here and keep track of their reading and activities to earn digital badges and prizes. Once you have registered on Beanstack, pick up your free paperback book at any library location! Complete the program for a chance to win the grand prize!

Photos courtesy of LBPL

Participants in the Summer Reading Program have a chance to win the grand prize

Kids can also write or draw book reviews throughout the summer. Each submitted book review will be entered into weekly prize drawings.

Head over to these Newport Beach Public Library locations as they kick off their annual Summer Reading Program with a variety of fun activities all day long.

–Central, Tuesday, June 13 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 14 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, June 17 at 11 a.m.

Michael Rayner, Comedian Juggler

Join in the combination of hilarious tricks and stunts with uproarious stand-up comedy for kids. Michael Rayner’s show has been described as “preposterous brilliance” and “wacky jugglement.”

Click on photo for a larger image

You can read a book anywhere, even on the stairs

–CdM, Monday, June 19 at 3 p.m.

–Central, Tuesday, June 20 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 21 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, June 24 at 11 a.m.

Click on photo for a larger image

Get creative with words and crafts

Crafts: Find Your Voice With Words

There are so many ways to use words to express our unique selves. Make a journal, create word art, write your name in new and fun ways. Join the library to get crafty with words.

–CdM, Monday, June 26 at 3 p.m.

–Central, Tuesday, June 27 at 11 a.m.

–Balboa, Wednesday, June 28 at 3 p.m.

–Mariners, Saturday, July 1 at 11 a.m.

Kyle Tiernan, Draw Along Art

Learn to draw with Kyle Tiernan. Participants will follow along and complete three fun illustrations to take home in this engaging art program for children. All supplies are provided.

Summer Reading Program events are generously funded by the Friends of the Library. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all events. Space is first come, first seated and limited by room capacity. Materials are available while supplies last. More information can be found at www.newportkids.org.

CdM Chamber’s Good Morning CdM will look into artificial intelligence, courtesy of distinguished UCI professor

Good Morning CdM, presented monthly by the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce, has a hot topic to present at their Thursday, June 8 meeting, with the topic, “Artificial Intelligence, from Transformative Opportunities to Existential Challenges.” Artificial intelligence (AI) truly is one of the biggest subjects out their today.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of CdM Chamber of Commerce

UCI Professor Pierre Baldi

Professor Pierre Baldi, a distinguished professor in the Department of Computer Science, director of the Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, and associate director of the Center for Machine Learning and Intelligent Systemsat the University of California Irvine, will be the presenter.

Today, the long-term focus of his research is on understanding intelligence in brains and machines.

Good Morning CdM, which should be quite enlightening, is from 8-9:30 a.m. at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club and is free of charge with no RSVP required. Complimentary coffee/pastry will be served.

Also featured will be legislative reports from CdM’s local city, state and federal offices.

Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club is located at 1601 Bayside Drive, Corona del Mar.

For more information, visit www.cdmchamber.com.

Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival returns to Balboa Yacht Club, June 9-11

After nearly four years, the popular Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival is returning to the Balboa Yacht Club (BYC) on June 9-11, and will be open to the public on June 10.

The event was established in 2015 by the late Ralph Rodheim, a BYC member, community leader and wooden boat enthusiast, who envisioned the festival as yachting’s equivalent to a Concours d’Elegance, a competition of elegance where prestigious vessels are displayed and judged for best in class.

“The Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival has been on hiatus since 2019, but I am pleased to announce the Wooden Boat Festival is returning to Balboa Yacht Club on June 9-11, 2023,” said event Chair Mike Sullivan.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photos courtesy of Visit Newport Beach

The Wooden Boat Festival will showcase some of the most iconic wooden vessels from around the state

The event willshowcase some of the most iconic wooden vessels from around the state, drawing more than 4,000 visitors in previous years.

Once such vessel,Aviator, a 94-foot World War II-era, downed rescue pilot vessel will be on display and available for tours. After being moth-balled for decades after the war ended,Aviatorwas lovingly restored by owner Nico Santucci into a state-of-the-art, world-class luxury yacht.

“As one of the West Coast’s premier events, the Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival has captured notable attention by bringing together all facets of Newport Beach excellence in a themed, community-wide, family-friendly open house,” added event Vice Chair Steve Paljieg.

In addition to being able to view and board nearly 25 wooden boats, the family-friendly event also includes live music, maritime art and exhibits, food and libations and a silent auction.

Click on photo for a larger image

View and board nearly 25 wooden boats, during this family-friendly event with live music, maritime art and exhibits, food and libations and a silent auction

As is custom, each year an original painting commemorating the festival is created and sold during Saturday’s silent auction. This year’s featured artist is renowned local artist Scott Kennedy.

Hosted by Balboa Yacht Club, the event is also made possible in collaboration with the City of Newport Beach, the County of Orange and Visit Newport/Newport Beach & Co.

In 2017, the event was officially recognized by the Orange County Board of Supervisors, who proclaimed the second weekend in June the “Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival Weekend.”

Complimentary parking and shuttle service will be available at 1600 East Coast Highway, Newport Beach (turn onto Clubhouse Drive from PCH and follow the signage). Entry to the event is $10 for adults, with children 12 and under free.

For more information, visit www.newportbeachwoodenboatfestival.com, or call 949.673.3515.

Pet of the Week 

Stu News Newport is delighted to be working with the Newport Beach Animal Shelter to help get the word out in search of loving homes for pets that deserve a warm, nurturing environment and a place to call “home.”

The shelter is thrilled to introduce Vanna, the Pekin Duck, who is now ready for adoption. Vanna, with her quacks and charismatic presence, is seeking a forever home where she can bring joy and companionship to her new family.

Pekin ducks, known for their adorable appearance and engaging personalities, make delightful pets for those looking to add a unique touch to their lives. Vanna is no exception. Potential adopters are advised to ensure they have the necessary resources and knowledge to meet Vanna’s specific needs. A commitment to providing a suitable living environment, proper nutrition and regular veterinary care is essential for her well-being.

If you would like to visit Vanna, please set up an appointment with the Newport Beach Animal Shelter by calling 949.718.3454, or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The Newport Beach Animal Shelter is open daily from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and appointments are required.

Courtesy of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter

Meet Vanna

The shelter does require completed application forms for their animals, so simply print one up from their non-profit’s webpage at www.FONBAS.org. After it is completed, you can email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and upon review, they’ll call you to schedule an appointment. If you have any questions, call 949.718.3454.

Newport Beach Animal Shelter adoption fees:

–Adult Dogs - $150

–Puppies - $225

–Adult Cats - $90

–Kittens - $110

–Rabbits - $45

Also, consider becoming a member of an incredible nonprofit that supports the city’s efforts with providing wonderful opportunities to stray, injured, ill and owner-surrendered domestic pets.

NBPL has a place just for teens

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Photo by NBPL

Teens, need a place to study? Come to the Central Library Friends Meeting Room, where there is a study space exclusively for you. From Monday, June 5 through Wednesday, June 7, there is a Teen Study Hall set up from 3-8 p.m. You bring your schoolwork and study buddies, they’ll provide WiFi and snacks. Funding is generously provided by the Friends of the Library. Check it out at 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts presents SIX

The electrifying Tony Award^®-winning new musical phenomenon SIX (The Musical) by Tony Award winners Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss will play two weeks at Segerstrom Center for the Arts from June 13-25 on the Segerstrom Hall stage.

From Tudor queens to pop icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix 500 years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st century girl power. This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over.

SIX won 23 awards in the 2021/2022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award for Best Original Score (music and lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.

Click on photo for a larger image

Photos courtesy of scfta.org

From Tudor queens to pop icons, the “SIX” wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix 500 years of historical heartbreak into an euphoric celebration of 21st century girl power

The SIX: LIVE ON OPENING NIGHT Broadway album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard cast album charts and surpassed 6 million streams in its first month.

SIX, which closed in March 2020 due to the pandemic on what was supposed to be opening night, is now playing at the Lena Horne Theatre on Broadway in New York City. The show had a successful North American Premiere at Chicago Shakespeare in the summer of 2019. Prior to Broadway, the show played limited engagements at American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) in Cambridge, Mass., the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton, AB Canada and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts in Saint Paul, Minn.

The North American tour Aragon company cast features Khaila Wilcoxon as Catherine of Aragon, Storm Lever as Anne Boleyn, Natalie Paris as Jane Seymour, Olivia Donalson as Anna of Cleves, Courtney Mack as Katherine Howard and Gabriela Carrillo as Catherine Parr. The cast also includes Marilyn Caserta, Kelsee Kimmel, Erin Ramirez, Cassie Silva and Kelly Denice Taylor.

Click on photo for a larger image

“SIX” won 23 awards in the 2021/2022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award for Best Original Score (music and lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical

SIX is co-directed by Lucy Moss and Jamie Armitage, featuring choreography by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille. The design team includes Emma Bailey (set design), Tony Award winner Gabriella Slade (costume design), Paul Gatehouse (sound design) and Tim Deiling (lighting design). The score features orchestrations by Tom Curran with music supervision and vocal arrangements by Joe Beighton and U.S. music supervision by Roberta Duchak. Casting is by Tara Rubin Casting/Peter Van Dam, CSA with original U.S. casting by Bob Mason. Theater Matters is the general manager, Sam Levy is associate producer and Lucas McMahon is U.S. executive producer. SIX is produced in the U.S. by Kenny Wax, Wendy and Andy Barnes, George Stiles and Kevin McCollum.

Tickets, which start at $39, are available at www.scfta.org, by phone at 714.556.2787, or at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. For Group Sales, call 714.755.0236.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. For more information, visit www.scfta.org.

Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Coastkeeper suit delays confined aquatic disposal facility planned for underneath Newport Bay

The United States Army Corps of Engineers (the Corps) has halted the dredging of Lower Newport Bay and construction authorization for the City of Newport Beach’s (the city’s) Confined Aquatic Disposal (CAD) facility. The Corps put things on hold after Orange County Coastkeeper (Coastkeeper) filed a lawsuit challenging their failure to fully analyze actions possibly violating the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Endangered Species Act (ESA).

So, is that a good thing or a bad thing?

Sources tell me that the city is fine with postponement for several reasons. First, the delay allows them to gather further data and two, doing the work in the fall or winter is certainly more conducive than doing it in the middle of summer with all the crowds.

Initially, the Corps was required to respond to the lawsuit from Coastkeeper by June 16. However, in order to allow the Corps additional time to consider revisiting its compliance issues, all parties agreed to extend that deadline to July 12, including temporarily halting dredging activities and the authorization to construct the CAD facility.

The postponed project is an effort between the Corps and the city to dredge the federal channels in Newport Bay in order to address underwater sediment buildup that could eventually impact vessel navigability. The dredged material deemed unsuitable for open ocean disposal through the process due to elevated levels of contaminants such as mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) would be permanently stored in a CAD facility constructed by the city within Lower Newport Bay.

At the CAD, this contaminated sediment would be covered with additional layers of less polluted sediment to try and prevent it from reentering the wider environment.

It’s been a controversial subject, particularly when it was previously considered elsewhere in Newport Bay.

• • •

On Wednesday, May 24, first responders from all over SoCal gathered at The Tennis and Pickleball Club at Newport Beach for a day of friendly competition. Firefighters from L.A. to San Diego traveled to Newport with hopes of being crowned the first annual PICKLEFEST champions.

The crowd was energetic and the community came out in full force to cheer on their teams. Ultimately, it was Pasadena Fire who took home the gold.

The tournament was hosted by club President Sean Bollettieri, who on the day received an award of appreciation and recognition from Newport Beach Fire.

Bollettieri confirmed that he will be hosting “PICKLEFEST” yearly to give back to first responders all over Southern California, who, incidentally, have played a part in saving his life on two different occasions from epileptic episodes over the course of his tennis and pickleball career.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of TTPC at Newport Beach 

Many of those responsible for the success of the inaugural PICKLEFEST gather, including City Councilmembers Joe Stapleton, Erik Weigand and Robyn Grant, along with tournament organizers Sean Bollettieri (middle in maroon shirt) and volunteer Nancy Barfield (in red sweater)

• • •

The Balboa Island Parade was a major success, as usual, this past Sunday. It is perhaps the only parade where the participants’ line-up preparing for the parade measures longer than the actual parade route itself. And, it seemed like virtually everyone in town was there.

We saw City Council folks, top city employees, local bands, not so local bands (USC), dogs, horses, cowboys, military members, “Irrelevant” people, children’s groups, golf carts, Keystone Cops, cartoon characters, bicycles, and cartoon characters on bicycles for that matter…and whatever else people deemed important.

Stu News was even proud to be a part of it. And we can attest to the fact that three LARGE bags of candy is not quite enough to travel the several blocks down Marine Avenue and keep all the waiting children who scramble for the sweet goods happy. Four, on the other hand, would have been perfect.

The crowds came out hoping to enjoy the sun that had brightly shined the day before and lined the sidewalks all the way across the bridge, through town and then down and around the turn in front of the Village Inn at the parade’s completion.

Special thanks should go to the many volunteers who made the day so easy and so much fun.

The theme, “Horsin’ Around Island Style,” made cowboy hats and boots the style trends of the day.

Last year following the route’s completion, I waited for hours on a side street just hoping to exit the Island. This year, I learned. Once we passed the Village Inn we continued our jaunt down Park and made a left on Agate to our escape via the Ferry.

We were off so fast that even with two stops we made it to the VEA for some good afternoon music in time to still get great seats in the Edge poolside bar.

• • •

Speaking of hotels/resorts, I’m finalizing plans to hopefully tour and get a peek of the new Pendry later this week. It’s expected to open later in 2023.

I’m hearing some great things about the project, including The Elwood Club, their “untraditional take on a classic members’ club.”

We’ll keep you posted with our thoughts.

• • •

Worth noting, several weeks ago on the commute to the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival at the Balboa Bay Resort, I was offered a courtesy trip there in a new Lucid. In case you’re not familiar with Lucid Motors, I might encourage you to check them out, particularly if you’re in the market for the finest in luxury electric cars.

First off, the finishes were near perfection, including the interior leather, the one-piece windshield morphing into the driver and passenger roof and a very advanced video/navigation system. I also was told that the range of the Grand Touring Performance model exceeds 500 miles. And, if you want power, it has 1050 horsepower or step up to the Lucid Air Sapphire which boasts 1200-plus horsepower and a top speed of 200 mph.

Let me put it to you this way…it was a very, very nice vehicle and a sweet, sweet ride.

Hummingbirds take a peek

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Two hummingbirds look out from their nest at the new world that awaits

Spring has sprung

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Photo by Joel Goldstein

Flowers are officially in bloom!

Take Five: Mario Marovic, a true entrepreneur

By DIANNE RUSSELL

Mario Marovic – Business Journal’s 2021 Restaurateur of the Year, Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce 2022 Business Person of the Year and Costa Mesa 2018 Businessman of the Year – has a sizable local restaurant and bar portfolio of 14 locations scattered all over Orange County from Fullerton to Newport Beach. The portfolio includes: Malarky’s Irish Pub, Stag Bar, Dory Deli, Super Taqueria Panga, Muldoon’s Irish Pub, Wild Goose Tavern, Playa Mesa Mexican Kitchen, The Country Club, Blackie’s by the Sea, The District Lounge, Matador Cantina, 2J’s Lounge, Mickey’s Irish Pub and High Horse Saloon.

His premier Orange County food and beverage consulting firm Lounge Group Consulting has been a successful part of the Southern California restaurant and bar landscape for more than two decades – and continues to grow.

Stu News Newport caught up with Marovic to gather some insight into his professional – and personal – life.

Photos courtesy of Mario Marovic

Mario and his wife Ashlea

Q: What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishments – both in business and your personal life?

A: Without question, my biggest personal accomplishment in life is being married to my amazing wife Ashlea and raising my two beautiful daughters Kate (11) and Grace (13). Ashlea is my rock, and without her, I would have not been able to accomplish as much as I have in business.

My biggest accomplishment in business was taking a risk on myself and following my dreams of owning a restaurant/bar. Before I opened my first establishment in Newport Beach, I worked at Silicon Valley Bank as a young banker fresh out of graduate school. Everyone I trusted most in life advised me to stay in the banking industry because it was a safer career path. However, after getting feedback from close family and friends, I decided to risk everything. I quit my job and took my life savings and invested it into my first venture in Newport Beach, Landmark Steakhouse in Corona del Mar. That decision ultimately cleared the path to what ended up being 14 unique restaurant concepts with more than 1,000 employees.

Q: Do you have a favorite property that you have acquired? And why?

A: My favorite properties are all of the ones located in the McFadden Square. When I was a young child, my parents would take us to the Newport Pier to enjoy Blackie’s Beach in the summertime. I have many fond memories of McFadden Square and would never have imagined, in my wildest dreams, that I’d be able to own any of those properties or businesses. I appreciate the rich history of McFadden Square. I am very proud that our ownership and investment in enhancing these properties have revitalized the area and made a positive impact on the community. We enjoy it so much that I am currently building a family home on 22nd Street, so I can spend more time here with my wife and children.

Click on photo for a larger image

The Marovic Family (L-R): Mario, Ashlea, Grace and Kate

Q: What do you look for when you are considering a business?

A: I have a unique approach to investing when considering the purchase of an existing business or creating a new concept. First of all, when we purchase an existing iconic business in Newport Beach, we want to respect and preserve the historical significance that the business has in the community. Blackies By The Sea (established in 1953) is the only bar in the country to have a beach named after it. The Stag Bar (established in 1908) is the oldest bar in Orange County. Malarky’s Irish Pub was established in 1977 and Muldoon’s Irish Pub was established in 1974. With all of the businesses, we viewed ourselves as the custodians of these iconic brands so we could hand them down to the next generation.

When creating new businesses my partner, Andrew Gabriel, and I reverse engineer our concepts to what we believe the community needs. A great example of this is the Dory Deli on the boardwalk. We acquired that property without knowing what we were going to do with it. But after much discussion, we decided that the community would benefit from a gourmet coffee shop/deli that opens at 6 a.m. every day of the year. The Dory was a risk because at that time, for decades, not much had changed in McFadden Square. But we believed in the concept and the community embraced it. Now Dory Deli is one of the most successful ventures.

Mario with Grace at a construction site in 2018

Q: If you hadn’t gone into this career, what other profession might you have chosen? What are your interests outside of business?

A: If I hadn’t originally followed my dreams of being in the hospitality industry, I most likely would have gotten more involved in the construction/real estate development industry. From an early age, my father had me working on construction projects. At the age of 14, I was operating a jack hammer and doing heavy demolition. There is great feeling of accomplishment when you work on a project from the conceptual design phase through completion. I still enjoy rolling up my sleeves and getting actively involved on the construction side.

When I have free time I enjoy spending it with family and friends. It usually involves travel, good food and drinks.

Q: What would readers be surprised to know about you?

A: Something most people don’t know about me is that I was raised in a blue-collar immigrant family. My parents escaped from communist Yugoslavia (now Croatia) and had limited formal education. But, my parents had a tremendous work ethic! Everything I have accomplished to date is the result of watching and learning from them since a very young age. As a child, my parents took me to work with them every single day. I basically grew up in a small cowboy bar called The Wild Goose Tavern in Anaheim. I always told myself that I would never be in the restaurant/bar industry because I watched my parents work so hard. However, it wasn’t until I left the hospitality industry that I realized how much I missed it. The rest is history...

28th Annual Balboa Island Parade drew huge crowds, pardner

The 28th Annual Balboa Island Parade held on Sunday, June 4, brought the community together for a day of fun, fanfare, music and town pride, with Jack Callahan serving as this year’s Grand Marshal.

Themed “Horsin’ Around Island Style,” participants paraded down Marine Avenue, wearing their best Stetsons and “saddling up” their vehicles, as they waved and threw candy at the crowd lining the street. An after-party, featuring the Fabulous Nomads, immediately followed the parade in front of the Balboa Island Fire Station.

Sponsored by the Balboa Island Improvement Association, this Island tradition was filled with local dignitaries; USC Marching Band; decorated cars, golf carts and floats; military veterans; kids on bikes; Island dogs; the United States Marine Band; local organizations; the Keystone Cops; drill teams; marching school bands and more.

Parade wards will be presented at the Pancake Breakfast at the Carroll Beek Community Center on Saturday, June 24.

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Newport Beach City Council poses before heading down Marine Avenue

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Newport Beach Mayor Noah Blom (right) is pictured in the big red truck with his wife Marin and daughter Sterling

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Newport Beach City Councilmember Robyn Grant’s car is parade ready, pictured in front of (L-R) Julie Jacobs, Councilmember Joe Stapleton and Councilmember Robyn Grant

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Newport Beach City Councilmember Erik Weigand with his family – NMUSD Board Trustee Krista Weigand and their children Annie and Miles

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Photo by Lana Johnson

OC Supervisor Katrina Foley, Fifth District (back center with orange floral top) “hitched up” this Bronco convertible for her parade ride

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Richard Remy, 100-year-old WWll pilot serving in the USAAF (in front passenger seat), was recognized

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Submitted photo

2023 Mr. Irrelevant No. 259 Desjuan Johnson, signing autographs for the youngsters

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Submitted photo

USC Marching band warming up

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Newport Beach Harbormaster Paul Blank

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Photo by Lana Johnson

CBS 2/KCAL 9 News Reporter and Corona del Mar resident Michele Gile poses with a friend

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Submitted photo

WWll and Korean War Veterans with local Bill Stewart (back), youngest living WWll Veteran at 94 years of age

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Newport Harbor Elks Lodge 1767

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Photo by Lana Johnson

The WACS

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Photo by Lana Johnson

You’re in the infantry, now

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Miss West Coast Volunteer and her horse mobile

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Courtesy of Chris Crosson

Chris Crosson’s Doggie Walk Bags float