Fair Game
By TOM JOHNSON
Life is improving as things begin opening up
Orange County is trending towards a move to the Orange Tier in the Governor’s statewide COVID-19 ranking system.
Hip-hip-hooray…hip-hip-hooray.
Moving to Orange will allow retail businesses to move to full capacity, versus the 50 percent levels allowed now in the Red Tier. Shopping malls will also be allowed full capacity, although common food areas will still remain at reduced levels.
Others impacted will be museums, zoos, aquariums, movies, restaurants and churches that will all be allowed levels of half capacity versus their current allowable levels of 25 percent.
Gyms and fitness centers under Orange could move from 10 percent levels to 25 percent, along with bowling alleys and indoor facilities like wall climbing. Pools would also be allowed to reopen.
• • •
Everyone should check out the 21st Annual Newport Beach Film Festival that will roll virtually from October 1-11.
A complete program of all films is available here, and attendees may purchase tickets at https://nbff2020.eventive.org/welcome.
• • •
OC Public Works and the City of Newport Beach will begin a project that will remove accumulated sand from the Santa Ana River outlet beginning Monday.
This removal is done each year during the fall to “enhance flood control prior to storm season.”
The removed high-quality sand is actually placed along the beach to “provide erosion protection and enhance the surf.”
Crews from both OC Public Works and the City of Newport Beach will be working in the area Monday through Friday through November. It’s estimated that 30,000 cubic yards of sand will be removed and then deposited on both sides of the Balboa Pier between 40th and 48th St.
• • •
John Wayne Airport has been ranked the #2 large airport in North America by J.D. Power’s 2020 Airport Satisfaction Study.
“We are pleased that our efforts to continually elevate the guest experience are reflected in the customer satisfaction survey,” said Airport Director Barry Rondinella. “I am proud of our entire team for rising to the unique challenges we encountered this year. It is through their dedication and commitment that we continue to hold ‘favorite airport’ status among our guests.”
The study measured six different factors including terminal facilities, airport arrival & departure, baggage claims, security checks, check-in & baggage check, and food, beverage and retail.
JWA actually received the highest security check score of all large airports in North America.
For more information on the results, go here.
• • •
Friends of the Library have relocated and opened the Friends Bookstore to the general public beginning today. The new location is in the Friends Meeting Room. Everyone can now peruse the books following certain protocols and procedures to make things safe.
Customers in the area will be limited to 20 at a time and masks will be required. To gain access, customers will line up outside in the Bamboo Patio.
The Friends Bookstore will be open 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Also, people wishing to donate books can do so between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
• • •
Next Wednesday, Sept. 30, Hoag is hosting a Drive-In Theatre special event featuring Grease at the OC Fair & Event Center. Proceeds will support Hoag’s COVID-19 Fund in honor of Hoag clinicians and staff.
Here are the details – the venue opens at 6 p.m., with the movie beginning at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $350 per car that allows each guest the opportunity to enjoy gourmet bites, nostalgic candy and retro sodas.
And, if you’re saying, “$350!” I remind you it’s a fundraiser. To purchase tickets, go to www.hoagdrivein.hoagpromise.org.
Upcoming candidate forums
CdM Residents Association forum set for September 30
The Corona del Mar Residents Association (CdMRA) is hosting its Election Forum on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 6 p.m. Registration is requested but not required for this unique and informative event.
For event information and registration, visit https://cdmra.org/cdmra-election-forum-2020.
CdMRA’s Election Forum will be held in a virtual format so that voters can attend this event from any location. This Election Forum will focus on issues specific to Corona del Mar voters and will be attended by all Newport Beach City Council candidates running for election on November 3. It will also feature a brief presentation on Ballot Measure Z, which seeks to amend the City’s Charter to include the Harbor Commission.
Event moderators are Alex Crawford and Riley Hayes of Good Morning Newport. CdMRA’s Election Forum will feature both in-depth and rapid-response questions. Questions will be submitted in advance by CdM resident voters of all ages and will be presented in a unique and engaging format.
The CdMRA volunteers have worked to advocate for Corona del Mar residents on issues and opportunities that impact their quality of life for more than 33 years. Visit www.CdMRA.org for more information.
Friends of OASIS plans October 2 Council forum
The Friends of OASIS will be hosting a Newport Beach City Council Candidates Forum via Zoom on Friday, Oct. 2 at 10 a.m. You will have the opportunity to meet the candidates and learn about their platform.
Forum moderators include Friends of OASIS President Mike Zimmerman, Friends of OASIS Vice President of Civic Affairs Walt Howald and Friends of OASIS Director and President Emeritus Evelyn Hart.
Join this informative session which will assist you with your voting decisions. Simply log onto the Zoom link a few minutes before 10 a.m.
Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/8063953593?pwd=dGZtVE51bTNCYlh5R0FQRldZU2FYUT09
Zoom ID: 806 395 3593
Zoom password: OASIS
There is no charge to attend, however, you must register at www.cdmchamber.com.
Harbor Council PTA offers up School Board candidates forum
The Harbor Council PTA will present an impartial and nonpartisan Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) School Board Candidates Forum on Thursday, Oct. 8. The forum will be held in a virtual format from 6-9 p.m.
Candidates expected to participate include Leah Ersoylu and Vicki Snell from Trustee Area 1, Charles Ken Booker and Carol Crane for Trustee Area 3, and Alexis Zavouris, Amy Peters, Xeno Ralf Muller II and Krista Weigand from Trustee Area 6.
PTA is the nation’s oldest and most respected all-volunteer organization advocating on behalf of children, youth and families. It is nonpartisan, noncommercial and nonsectarian.
Meeting attendance information is available at http://bit.ly/hcpta2020.
Take Five: Meet Lisa Goon, Newport resident and UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge executive
By AMY SENK
The UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge began in 2017, and this year’s event – with some COVID adjustments – will take place October 3. Typically, the run-walk-ride fundraiser would end on the UCI campus, but this year, it will be virtual and will incorporate yoga. I caught up with my friend Lisa Goon, a Newport Beach resident who serves on the Challenge executive council, to find out more.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of Lisa Goon
Lisa Goon
Q: You’re deeply involved in the UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge. Can you tell me more about this event?
A: The Anti-Cancer Challenge is one of Orange County’s top peer-to-peer fundraising events, and we are growing each year. This community movement was created to help raise awareness and funds for the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center at UCI Health. One hundred percent of the money raised is directed toward promising new research, conducted by renowned physician-scientists at the cancer center. Our close family friends, Shawn Miller and Marci Miller, started a fund to support cancer center research after Shawn’s family was touched by cancer. Shawn co-chairs the event’s executive council. He asked me a year ago to serve on the executive council, as he knows I am passionate about health and my family has been involved in cancer research for years.
Q: What is the UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge, and how will it be different this year due to COVID-19?
A: In past years, the Anti-Cancer Challenge culminated in a ride, run and walk, concluding on the beautiful UCI Campus. This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, we have many virtual events leading up to October 3. On October 3, we will feature activities including group walks, runs and rides that people can participate in wherever they are. And we have people participating in such places as Florida, New York and Canada. We are getting creative this year to raise funds and engage the community. As a certified yoga instructor, I have volunteered to teach an outdoor yoga class on the day of the event. We will make sure everyone who participates has plenty of space to social distance. Events will be live streamed on October 3.
Q: What prompted you to become a yoga instructor six years ago?
A: Over 15 years ago, a friend took me to a Bikram yoga class. Though I spent most of the 90 minutes in that first class looking for an exit from the heated room, I was fascinated with the practice, and ended up coming back for more. Fast forward to 2014, I was regularly practicing yoga at a local studio and found myself drawn to the idea of delving deeper into my yoga practice. I had noticed how my body was gaining significant benefits from my practice, healing old injuries and seemingly preventing new ones. The natural next step for me was teacher training, and from there I became a certified yoga instructor. I realized once I started teaching that I had a passion for educating others and a desire to help others heal their body through yoga. I have regularly taught yoga in both group and private settings since becoming certified. My newest venture that I am super excited about is offering free yoga classes in local parks. My partners and I started this venture to keep our yoga community together when quarantine ended and while studios are still closed. We have had a lot of success and decided to make the free yoga an opportunity for charitable giving for anyone interested in donating. Our current charity is the UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge, of course. Anyone who is interested can check out our free yoga class schedule on Instagram – @purenergyoga.
Q: Do you think yoga and exercise could help alleviate people’s negative emotions – stress, futility, worry – in these days of COVID and political turmoil?
A: Absolutely. While we are living through extremely stressful times, that doesn’t mean we need to be constantly under stress. We know from research that putting our bodies in a constant fight-or-flight mode creates physical as well as mental stress on us. Yoga offers a way to get out of that state by bringing the body and mind into the present, letting go of what has happened in the past and removing worry about the future. We use breath and movement to do this, allowing the mind to calm and thereby relaxing the body. Yoga is a great form of exercise because it tones, strengthens and stretches the body. Yoga flow is also a great cardio workout. But most importantly, yoga is a meditation that helps soothe and calm the mind. I find that once I can get my students’ minds focused on their breath and the poses, they start to forget about everything else going on in the world and move into the present moment where they really are quite safe. By the end of class most all students have let go of their negative emotions. People who have a more regular yoga practice tend to be calmer and more able to deal with the curve balls life throws at us. I cannot say enough about the healing benefits of yoga.
Q: Has the Challenge been successful as a fundraiser?
A: Since the first Anti-Cancer Challenge in 2017, participants and donors have contributed $1.5 million to research at the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and its pediatric cancer affiliate, CHOC Children’s. They have provided funding for 43 original studies to prevent, diagnose or treat cancer. Several of the grants have helped researchers produce critical preliminary data that justifies continued investigation of their innovative concepts. They have earned more than $7 million in additional funding from government agencies and private foundations, a testament to the potential of the research to produce important outcomes. There is still time to register as a participant or to make a donation. My team goal this year is to raise $50,000. If anyone would like to join my team or contribute to the challenge, please visit my page at
www.anti-cancerchallenge.org/goto/PurEnergYoga.
~~~~~~~~
Amy Senk is a longtime resident of Corona del Mar and a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.
Our Lady Queen of Angels continues with successful food drives
The parish of Our Lady Queen of Angels (OLQA) Catholic Church has just completed their seventh food drive, allowing them to deliver 13,000 pounds of food to those in need. In addition, more than $6,600 in cash donations has been given to Catholic Charities of Orange County and Serving People in Need (SPIN).
OLQA has announced that they will continue to meet the high demand for donations by continuing with future food drives and encourages community members to drive through the Parish Center parking lot to drop off dry non-perishable food items.
Future dates and details can be found at www.olqa.org.
Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church is a parish in the Diocese of Orange. With more than 4,000 parish families, OLQA has been serving the community for more than 59 years. The parish is led by the pastor Father Steve Sallot and the parish Knights of Columbus Council is supporting the drive.
Our Lady Queen of Angels is located at 2100 Mar Vista Drive, Newport Beach.
In a year of cancellations, the Christmas Boat Parade is a “go”
By GARY SHERWIN
There will be no pandemic humbug in Newport Beach this December. The 112th Christmas Boat Parade is on.
In a year when nearly every special event has been canceled around the country, this “holiday postcard to the world” will sail on for its usual five nights December 16-20.
For those who question why this event is happening this year, the answer is simple.
Joy.
2020 has been an epic mess on too many fronts to mention here. But we have all felt it and I think we all agree that it has been simply miserable. Although we have three more months of the year left, there has been very little to celebrate and unless you enjoy watching sports with empty stadiums and arenas, there’s been nothing to cheer on.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of Visit Newport Beach
Gary Sherwin
Hence the reason to move forward with the city’s signature event that brings people’s smiles, some holiday happiness and, not unimportantly in a year like this, money to the community.
As good as it is to have this wonderful event continue, it will certainly be different. There’ll be no fireworks to open and close the parade and people will be encouraged to act responsibly in terms of public health while gathering to watch the boats float by.
Unlike most holiday parades, this one is obviously on the water which already promotes distancing. The opening night Grand Marshal event at Marina Park won’t be held this year, but plans are underway to air a live broadcast of the opening night so people who don’t feel comfortable showing up can enjoy the parade safely at home.
Usually the parade has a celebrity Grand Marshal to kick the event off but this year discussions are around celebrating local heroes who have helped us through these crazy several months like health care providers and first responders.
The logistics of organizing an event in a pandemic are cumbersome and legally difficult, but the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce and its Commodore Club, which owns and operates the event, has been planning ahead. Keeping the magic of the parade, the Ring of Lights home decor as well as encouraging safety measures for those on shore are paramount.
Word is local boaters, who spend thousands of dollars each year to decorate and operate their vessels for the parade, are enthusiastic and want to participate. Given how depressing this year has been, bringing some holiday joy to thousands of people throughout the region is a noble cause and we all owe them some gratitude for stepping up.
It would have been easy to pull the plug this year and many people would have understood. But others felt that the parade is something bigger than the pandemic. It is a tangible and symbolic event that defines the Newport Beach culture as well as a significant representation of the season.
And if safety and health rules are in place and if people follow them, the event can be held in a way that protects folks while not diminishing the festive nature of the parade.
The ravages of the pandemic and the healing joy the parade provides people is a primary reason for continuing the tradition. But another one is important this year too and that is the event’s economic benefits.
Restaurants and retail need support this year more than ever. The parade has always been a godsend for dining establishments, especially along the water. But retail locations such as Fashion Island and Lido Marina Village also benefit when people come to town and shop for the holidays. Previous economic impact studies have pegged the community value of the Boat Parade at $6 million annually.
Perhaps most of all, in addition to bringing something positive to the community, the parade also provides a sense of normalcy this year when just about everything isn’t normal.
That alone is worth celebrating this holiday season.
Gary Sherwin is President & CEO of Visit Newport Beach and Newport Beach & Company.
In Memoriam
Rand Michael Hardy
June 26, 1991 – September 14, 2020
Courtesy of the Chabre Family
Rand Michael Hardy, 29, of Laguna Beach, died peacefully at home Monday, September 14, 2020. He was born June 26, 1991 in Newport Beach, the son of Michael and Sharon Hardy. He was a graduate of Laguna Beach High School and of the University of San Francisco.
After graduation, Rand continued to live in San Francisco where he worked in the travel and tourism industry for Pier 39.
In addition to his parents, Rand is survived by his brother, Brett Hardy of Santa Cruz. He is also survived by his maternal grandparents, Gus and Mary Chabre of Newport Beach, and uncles and aunts: Darryl and Karen Willis of Coto de Caza, Steve and Jana Chabre of Alameda and Cammy Chabre of Monterey.
Rand will also be greatly missed by cousins: Natalie and Garrett Willis and George and Ella Chabre.
Rand enjoyed nothing more than a good Lakers game, a raucous music festival, a plate of chile verde at Adolfo’s, or spending time with friends.
In lieu of flowers, you may make a gift in his memory to the Laguna Beach High School Scholarship Foundation re: Rand Hardy Memorial Scholarship, P.O. Box 1569, Laguna Beach, CA 92652-1569.
Soaring into sunset
Click on photo for a larger image
Photo by Stacia Stabler
Basking in the beauty of last night’s mesmerizing sunset
Newport Beach Film Festival goes virtual
The Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) will be going virtual October 1-11 at www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com.
The virtual Festival will showcase an international slate of 40 feature-length narrative and documentary films and 231 short films. The Festival will host virtual filmmaker conversations and “Industry Talks.” Originally scheduled for April 2020, the Festival was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The world premiere of A Life of Endless Summers: The Bruce Brown Story, the Festival’s Opening Night selection, screened in a drive-in format in mid-August at Fashion Island.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of IFC Films. An IFC Midnight Release.
Johnny Flynn portrays David Bowie in Gabriel Range’s “Stardust”
Festival highlights include virtual screenings of Fully Realized Humans which tells the story of Jackie and Elliot who embark on a madcap odyssey of self-discovery before their first child arrives in attempt to rid themselves of the inherited dysfunction of their own upbringings; Little Fish (IFC) starring Olivia Cooke (Ready Player One) and Jack O’Connell (Unbroken), follows a couple who fights to hold their relationship together as a memory loss virus spreads and threatens to erase the history of their love and courtship; the family comedy Breaking Them Up in which 15-year-old Damien decides that his parents are all wrong for each other, he enlists best friend Erin to help him set them up with other people; and the highly anticipated film Stardust (IFC) which tells the story of a young David Bowie’s first visit to the U.S. in 1971 – a trip that inspired the invention of his iconic alter ego Ziggy Stardust.
The Festival will present “Industry Talks,” a series of virtual conversations with film industry leaders. Cinematography From Set to Screen presented by Panavision will feature Cinematographer Don Burgess ASC (Forrest Gump, Contact, Cast Away, Spider-Man, Allied, Wonder and The Christmas Chronicles Light Iron) and Light Iron Senior Colorist Corinne Bogdanowicz (Allied, Wonder and The Christmas Chronicles). A Conversation with Cinematographer Robert McLachlan, ASC presented by Zeiss will feature the Director of Photography who is known for Lovecraft Country, Game of Thrones, Westworld and Ray Donovan.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of IFC Midnight. An IFC Midnight Release.
(L-R) Fiona Shaw as Margaret, Tamara Lawrance as Charlotte and Jack Lowden as Thomas in Joe Marcantonio’s “Kindred”
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of IFC Films. An IFC Midnight Release.
Frank Grillo as Bill Greer in Conor Allyn’s “No Man’s Land”
Additional “Industry Talks,” will be released prior to the Festival. “Industry Talks” are free and open to the public. Participants can RSVP on the Festival’s website.
Tickets and passes go on sale on Friday, Sept. 25 at www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com. The All-Access Pass is available for $75. Tickets to screenings are $10.
The Newport Beach Film Festival is sponsored by the City of Newport Beach, Visit Newport Beach, Fashion Island, THE LOT and Morgan Stanley. Dates for the 21 Annual Newport Beach Film Festival will be released at a later time.
Celebrated as one of the leading lifestyle film festivals in the United States, the Newport Beach Film Festival seeks to bring to Orange County the best of classic and contemporary filmmaking from around the world. Committed to enlightening the public with a first-class international film program, a forum for cultural understanding and enriching educational opportunities, the NBFF focuses on showcasing a diverse collection of studio and independent films from around the globe. For more information visit www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com or follow @nbff on Twitter and @newportbeachfilmfest on Instagram.
On the Harbor: From Harbor 20 Fleet 1 Championships to War Heroes on the Water
By LEN BOSE
“WHOW!” A lot is happening on the harbor over the next several weeks. For me, it is the 23rd Harbor 20 Fleet 1 Championships this Saturday and Sunday. On October 1-4, it is the War Heroes on the Water veterans reunion event – “WHOW” – and in between all this I was able to get 20 minutes with the city’s Harbormaster Kurt Borsting regarding the Day-Use Mooring Sub-Permit Trial.
I left off a couple of weeks ago that I would touch base with Newport Beach Harbormaster regarding the proposed “Day-Use Mooring Sub-Permit Trial.” Let’s say it is a perfect day to take your boat out and you would like to spend some time peaceably on the harbor. Rather than heading over to our only anchorage area, that you already know is full of extraordinarily loud sound systems, you can now call the city harbor department and request a mooring in the field of your choosing anywhere it is available.
Borsting referred to the day moorings as “a pressure relief valve.” A boat owner only needs to register with the city beforehand by providing boat documentation or a DMV registration along with proof of insurance and credit card information. For six hours at roughly .30 a foot, you will be assigned a mooring for six hours, and the availability will range from 8:30 a.m. to sunset. This is a fantastic idea that will promote boating activity while keeping proper social distancing. The size of your vessel will not matter as long as there is a mooring available that fits your boat. You will need your own mooring gear, therefore if you are over 25’ the odds are good you will need at least two lines. I would recommend going over to West Marine and asking the rigging department to splice carabiners to your mooring lines and the next time you are out on the harbor start looking for mooring fields that would work best for you. Borsting has targeted mid-October as a starting date. To learn more about availability and reservations, contact the harbor department at 949.270.8159, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. By the way, if you have not made your Marina Park slip reservations for the Christmas Boat Parade by now you could be too late. I just got off the phone with David Beek and he said: “It is 100 percent on!”
• • •
Click on photo for a larger image
Photo by Joysailing.com
2020 Harbor 20 Fleet 1 Championships take place September 26 and 27
Next up is the Harbor 20 Fleet 1 Championships this weekend. After 100 races this season, we are down to our last eight to 10 races for the season title. Over the last 10 years, I have yet to reach my goal of finishing in the upper half of the fleet. Confidence is high this year with my wife Jennifer crewing that we will obtain our goal. As always, Newport Harbor Yacht Club is hosting the event on the water and is providing us with their best race management team. At this point, it appears we will have close to 30 entries and we will be in the Five Points area of the harbor between 1-4 p.m. both days. In C fleet the favorite appears to be Team Hurlimann/Fischbacher aboard Whatever. They have been the most active in this division all summer. In B Fleet, there are 12 entries at this time with more than half of these entries having a chance to win. Based on the entries at this time, the top five could end up being Team MacDonald, who was on fire early this season, Team Haynes because they always sail well in the championships, and Team Kimball can easily show up with blistering speed along with Team Gordon. Team Novak has been putting in the extra effort and will also be in the hunt. B fleet has been extraordinarily competitive this season and I have to wonder if there will still be five more top competitors signing up still. At this time, I have to go with Team MacDonald; knowing Peter, he will bring some extra effort and lovin’ to the boat this week. In A fleet, you always have to look at Team Menninger to take away the big pickle dish, yet it will not be that easy for them this season. Odds are good that Teams Thompson, Campbell and Wiese will be nipping at his heels throughout the weekend. I’m going to go out on a flyer here and place my bet on Team Campbell. They have been the bridesmaid the last couple of years and Argyle has not smiled in the last two events, so he appears to have his game face on. Jennifer and I plan on being at one with the harbor, which means I promised not to stomp my feet should I blunder this weekend. Wish us luck!
• • •
Let’s get back to the “WHOW” War Heroes on the Water starting at 1630 (4:30 p.m.) on Thursday, Oct. 1 with a patriotic boat parade. The inaugural parade will be traveling the same route as the Christmas Boat Parade. Go here for the parade route: https://prn.to/2GjPoei.
This is their 3rd annual sportfishing event, and I cannot think of a better time or way to show your Newport lovin’ to our veterans and share our collective appreciation for their dedication, sacrifice and service. The tournament takes place through October 4. All the information regarding this reunion event can be found at https://warheroesonwater.com/about/. I picture coming on the water dipping the ensign and yelling out, “I love ya man” as a sign of victory over the virus, similar to raising the flag on Mount Suribachi (Iwo Jima).
Sea ya.
~~~~~~~~
Len Bose is a yachting enthusiast, yacht broker and harbor columnist for Stu News Newport.
COVID-19: 22 new deaths reported in OC, including Newport Beach resident
Sadly, OC Health Care Agency reports that 1,204 people have died due to COVID-19 in Orange County, including six new deaths reported today (September 25), one of whom was a Newport Beach resident. There have been 24 deaths of Newport Beach residents to date.
The county reports that there have been 52,904 cumulative cases countywide to date, an increase of 282 cases today.
The county reports that there have been 1,117 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Newport Beach to date, an increase of six cases today. This represents a per capita rate of 12.813 cases per thousand residents.
The county reports that 35 percent of ICU beds and 65 percent of ventilators are currently available countywide.
The county reports that 157 individuals are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 (includes ICU); 50 are in ICU.
The county estimates 47,660 “recovered cases” according to its data criteria.
For questions about the data presented by the county, call (714) 834-2000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
To view the data dashboard, click here.
Numbers are updated daily by Stu News Laguna and reported on our social media pages @StuNewsLaguna.
Click on photos for larger images
Courtesy of OC Health Care Agency
Orange County COVID-19 case data as of September 25, as reported by the County; click here to visit page that is updated daily
Letters to the Editor
Jeff Herdman: The Special Interest Candidate
Keith Curry is endorsing Jeff Herdman for city council because he’s not a “special interest” candidate. Oh, really?
Let’s start with the proposed plan for the Mariners Mile expansion. The primary owner and proponent of the project is Manouch Moshayedi. Jeff Herdman took thousands of dollars from Mr. Moshayedi, his wife, and Keith Curry – all disclosed on the same campaign disclosure form.
Amazing what just a little research can yield – It doesn’t stop there...
Herdman has also taken hundreds of dollars from Tod Ridgeway, who led the effort to build housing on the car wash site in Fashion Island.
Herdman happily accepted a max-out donation from the California Real Estate PAC and took more money from the Apartment Association of Orange County, the California Apartment Owners’ Association of Orange County, the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties, a Political Action Committee called “Taxpayers and Residents United For Newport,” and the Building Industry Association of California.
Herdman has taken money from “Shopoff Land Fund II,” “TSG Parcel 1, LLC” and “Uptown Newport Jamboree.” All are companies associated with the high-density Shopoff project along Jamboree.
Herdman has taken money from CAA Planning, Inc., who was the political consultant behind the failed Porsche dealer design along Mariner’s Mile.
So, Mr. Curry, who exactly is the special interest candidate? Here’s a hint: you just endorsed him.
If you’re looking for independence unbeholden to actual special interests, your vote is simple. Vote for Noah Blom!
Jodi P. Bole, Chair
Balboa Island Preservation Association (BIPA)
Blom brings young, charismatic energy to Council alternatives
I am a native of Newport Beach and my family has been here on Balboa Island since 1926. Never have I been more dismayed with our city leadership than I am now. I have watched helplessly as eight beautiful almost hundred year old Lemon-scented Gum trees were destroyed on Marine Avenue, then four more removed even after the Balboa Island Preservation Association (BIPA) got involved to try to slow down the carnage. To add insult to injury we were told by the City that the trees had to come down because they were diseased, which scientific testing has shown was categorically false. At the same time, prominently displayed on the City’s website was their vision of the future of Marine Avenue – which could best be described as Palm Springs on a bad day. All of this happened on Council member Jeff Herdman’s watch. Doesn’t he have any appreciation for the charm and character that makes Balboa Island special? How could he allow this to happen?
The Board of Supervisors just voted on the John Wayne Airport Initiative that will have a profound adverse effect on our quality of life. Newport Beach received no material concessions that will reduce airport noise. Jeff Herdman is chairman of our City’s airport committee. How could he allow this to happen on his watch? In a similar situation, the city of Lake Arrowhead sued the FAA for flightpath changes and won. Jeff Herdman could learn something from this little town in the mountains with nowhere near the resources of Newport Beach.
Jeff Herdman says he laments the formation of grassroots organizations like the BIPA and the Balboa Island Merchants Association and doesn’t understand why they are needed. He should look in the mirror. They formed over the last four years because he stubbornly pursues an agenda the vast majority of his constituents don’t want. He claims that he is open to dissenting points of view, but you only have to spend a short time with him to dispel that notion. Any dissension created over the last four years happened on his watch.
Now Jeff Herdman is running for reelection. I don’t believe he has earned another four-year watch. Fortunately, we have a great alternative. I met Noah Blom and his wife Marin at a recent get-together on Balboa Island. They are a young, charismatic couple with lots of energy. They are successful entrepreneurs – starting and operating many successful restaurants including ARC and ARC Butcher & Baker. Noah was born in Newport Beach and attended local schools. His father was John Blom, a well-known photographer in Corona del Mar. Noah and Marin’s son attends CdM High School. As an entrepreneur, Noah will bring a unique skill set and new vigor to tackle important issues like the Airport, the homeless crisis and the several hundred million dollar unfunded City pension liability. Noah has developed a lot of support all over the City including the endorsement of the Newport Beach Police, Firefighters and Lifeguards. We have a choice in November between a career bureaucrat and a young, dynamic entrepreneur. I will be voting for Noah Blom for City Council and look forward to the start of his watch.
Edward Black
Balboa Island
Schools are reopening except for NMUSD…what’s the hold up?
(Letter written to Mr. Hill, Dr. Gogel, Mr. Lee-Sung and NMUSD Board of Education)
I was reading today that FIVE Orange County school districts opened Tuesday, Sept 22. These school districts include: Fountain Valley Unified School District, Orange Unified School District, Cypress Elementary School District, Irvine Unified School District and Tustin Unified School District. I also know that Los Alamitos Unified School District opened middle schools on September 22 and is beginning in-person high school classes on Tuesday, September 29.
Orange County schools are now eligible for in-person instruction!
How can it be that the Newport-Mesa Unified School District cannot figure out a way to open the middle and high schools NOW?
My son attends CdM High School and he will not begin in-person classes until October 12. That is a full THREE WEEKS after we should have been able to make this transition.
As a single mom who works FULL TIME, this delay is a slap in the face to all parents who have been dealing with the completely untenable situation of remote learning since March.
What exactly is the hold up? We all have been anticipating a return to school since before the last school year ended. What on earth still needs to be done that is keeping our kids from getting back to in-person school? (As an aside, if this delay is in any way related to construction at CdM High School, that would be absolute malpractice on the part of NMUSD and all other involved parties.)
We clearly have had enough time to prepare. Numerous other OC school districts are OPEN.
This delay is unacceptable, and I would like to hear the reasons for it.
I look forward to your response. Thank you.
Regards,
Karen Davis
Newport Beach
It’s a sign of the times
The “cowboy capitalists” are at it again...
Yesterday on one of my errands, I saw a multitude of Michelle Steel signs planted in the cement and grassy divider between Newport Boulevard and the frontage road which runs parallel approaching 17th Street. Since I always put up flags where my election partner advises, daring to never break any sign rules, I was very cognizant of the possibility that this is one of those places where election campaign signs should not be. I am well aware that Ms. Steel may not be the person who planted signs there, but now that she is informed, I am assuming that, if illegally placed, they will be removed. I was going to counter with the placement of some Harley signs in the same location, citing that if the Steel signs were not removed, it must be okay to put signs there. The Head Supervisor of Orange County should know. But someone in Harley’s organization must know more than me, because when advised of the situation, I was told not to place any Harley signs there. Nice to know that they are trying to go by the rules in this tumultuous race.
On another front last week, Supervisor Wagner from Irvine asked President Trump to bypass the state and send future coronavirus relief money directly to the counties. He contends that counties have the right to come up with their own plans if they follow guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on topics such as physical distancing and masks.
Is he kidding? The BOS (Board of Supervisors) is the same body that, just a few months ago, sided with anti-maskers with conspiracy theories and in addition to not speaking up for the Health Officer who was getting death threats at her home from anti-maskers, they dropped the mask mandate. Supervisor Steel on tape sympathized with the anti-maskers. Fortunately, Governor Newsom quickly restored the mandate.
And isn’t the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) the agency which has lately become politicized by President Trump and corporate interests? As much as the City Council of Newport Beach and the Board of Supervisors have tried to make COVID a political issue, we are much better protected by rules that guide the rest of the state, while recognizing regional differences.
This last spring some of the same local leaders of Orange County rebelled when they were told by the governor to close their beaches for safety reasons. Dr. Fred Smoller, an associate professor of political science at Chapman, said that elected officials like Wagner, O’Neill and Board Supervisor Steel who denounced the governor’s beach closure, speak for “the old Orange County of rugged individualism and making your own way,” and added, “I think they speak for a fraction of Orange County that is diminishing in size.”
Lynn Lorenz
Newport Beach
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Newport beauty
Click on photo for a larger image
Photo by Stacia Stabler
Hitting the beach for another daily dose of Newport Beach’s wonder
Are you doing your fair share?
Philanthropy is the lifeblood of nonprofits throughout our community and across the country. Kindness funds help to the homeless and downtrodden; children who, in many cases, would have to do without; medical and health support for so many who are out of other options; and so much more.
Our Spotlight on Philanthropy is designed to show you the inner workings of programs touching our community and, hopefully, encourage you to take a closer look.
Featured Charitable Organization:
What does Orangewood do?
Orangewood Foundation was founded in 1981 and today is one of the leading providers of services to foster and community youth in Orange County. Foundation programs focus on four critical areas: health & wellness, housing, life skills & employment, and education. Recognizing that 46 percent of foster youth do not graduate from high school, in August 2013, the Foundation opened Samueli Academy, a free public charter school for community, including underserved and foster, teens and located in Santa Ana. Today, Samueli Academy is a Gold Ribbon School and ranked by US News & World Report among the top 6 percent of high schools in the nation in 2020. Annually, Orangewood Foundation serves 2,200 foster and community youth. Beyond its programs for thousands of youth in our community, Orangewood means “family,” “opportunity” and “hope.” Learn more at www.OrangewoodFoundation.org and www.SamueliAcademy.org.
Why give to Orangewood?
By giving to Orangewood Foundation, YOU are helping prepare teens and young adults in our community to reach their greatest potential. These vulnerable youth come from the foster care system, are experiencing homelessness, or are the victims of sex trafficking. Oftentimes, Orangewood staff are their only source of encouragement, guidance and resources.
Every contribution, regardless of the gift level, is critically important to the work of the organization. By making a gift, you enable the Foundation to serve even more youth and show them that there are generous individuals in the community who care about their success. Here are some examples:
–$10 buys a bus pass for one of our youth.
–$100 pays for a high school graduation expense.
–$500 pays for a college student’s textbooks for a semester.
–$1,000 pays for a youth’s 1-on-1 weekly therapy session for three months.
How to give to Orangewood?
You can make a general donation to Orangewood Foundation at https://orangewoodfoundation.org/donate-general/, or donate to our COVID Relief Fund at https://orangewoodfoundation.org/covid19. To see our list of in-kind items needed on Amazon, please visit https://orangewoodfoundation.org/help/.
How can I volunteer?
Orangewood offers many volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups. Currently, the Foundation is seeking mentors. More information can be found at the https://orangewoodfoundation.org/mentor flier. The Foundation’s Youth Connected Program is also seeking foster parents for students at Samueli Academy charter school. Details are at https://orangewoodfoundation.org/ycp/.
Other volunteer opportunities, such as volunteering in our onsite kitchen, at events, and in our offices, are currently on hold due to COVID-19.
What are Orangewood PALS and the 44 Women for Orangewood?
Orangewood Foundation is fortunate to have the support of two volunteer auxiliary groups. Orangewood PALS is a group of fun, energetic professionals who support the work of the Foundation by hosting events and activities for the youth of Orangewood.
44 Women for Orangewood, founded in 1999 by Susan Samueli, contributes to the Foundation by nurturing, supporting and inspiring adolescents exiting the foster care system, generally from ages 18-21. The group focuses its efforts on three key areas: providing mentoring and education, increasing community awareness about child abuse and neglect, and hosting annual fundraising events.
What is Samueli Academy?
Samueli Academy, a program of Orangewood Foundation, is a charter 7th-12th school in Orange County that serves foster and community youth – especially those who can benefit from the school’s hands-on, project-based teaching approach. Later this year, Samueli Academy will open its new on-campus dorm, fulfilling Orangewood’s original vision of offering foster students stability in both their educational experience and living situation.
Operations of the dorm will fall under Orangewood’s Youth Connected Program (YCP) and follow an innovative 5/2 model – offering foster students the ability to live in the on-campus dorms Sunday night through Friday afternoon, and with a foster family on weekends. This will provide students with educational and emotional support during the week and consistent family connections on weekends.
What are the major fundraisers and when do they take place?
Due to COVID-19, Orangewood is evaluating each of its events to determine whether to host in-person or virtually. Below is a list of Orangewood’s annual key fundraising events:
–October 29, 2020 – 23rd Annual (virtual) Ambassador Luncheon (open to Ambassador-level donors only)
–March 13-14, 2021 – Athletes First Classic Gala & Golf Tournament
–April 24, 2021 – Orangewood Adventure Challenge
–June 2021 – 17th Annual 44 Women for Orangewood Scholarship Luncheon
–June 24-27, 2021 – Stars & Stripes Tournament (benefits Orangewood and other local children’s charities)
–Date TBA – Anaheim Ducks Center Ice Theme Party
Details can be found at https://orangewoodfoundation.org/events.
Names of the leadership group?
Chief Executive Officer – Chris Simonsen
Chief Development Officer – Kendra Puryear
Chief Program Officer – Shay Sorrells
Chief Financial Officer – John Luker
Orangewood Foundation
1575 E. 17th St.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
714.619.0200
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Spotlight on Philanthropy is underwritten by
Good Morning Corona del Mar webinar meeting features Senator John Moorlach
Good Morning Corona del Mar, the monthly government and community affairs discussion group hosted by the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce, will hold its next meeting via live webinar on Monday, Sept. 28 beginning at 10 a.m.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce
Senator John Moorlach
The featured speaker is Senator John Moorlach, who will share updates from the state and a review of upcoming ballot propositions in this important election year. There will be time for a Q&A.
For additional information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 949.673.4050. For details on other upcoming Chamber events, visit www.CdmChamber.com.
Newport Beach Restaurant Month continues, so check out the daily foodie giveaways and Week Four’s grand prize getaways
The inaugural Newport Beach Restaurant Month: Eat. Drink. Win. started September 1 and continues through September 30 with more than 60 participating restaurants. Diners can sign up for their digital Dine Pass to check-in at restaurants to redeem exclusive offers, special menu items and be entered to win daily foodie giveaways and weekly grand prize getaways.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of Visit Newport Beach
Offer Highlights:
–21 Oceanfront: 15 percent off of your bill
–Afters Ice Cream: Free scoop of plant-based Java Chip ice cream
–Avila’s El Ranchito: Free cup of Mama Avila’s soup
–B.Candy: 20 percent off of ice cream
–Blaze Pizza: Bogo 11” pizza
–Bosscat Kitchen And Libations: Free whiskey flight (3 pours)
–Five Crowns: Complimentary appetizer
–Flower Child: 10 percent off your order
–Guacamigos: $10 off of a $30 order
–Harborside Restaurant: 25 percent off all food, Monday-Thursday
–Hornblower Cruises & Events: Free appetizer (chef’s choice)
–Port Restaurant and Bar: 20 percent off your entire bill
–Shor American Seafood Grill: Free dessert
–Sugar ‘n Spice: Bogo frozen bananas
–The Bungalow: Restaurant: Free dessert
–True Food Kitchen: Complimentary seasonal refresher
Here are the Weekly Grand Prize Getaways for Week Four:
–One Night Stay at The Resort at Pelican Hill Luxurious Bungalow with Breakfast for Two
–Gift Card to Five Crowns
–Whale Watching Adventure with Newport Whales
–$50 Nordstrom Fashion Island Gift Card
–One Hour Private Sunset Cruise with Baywatch Boating
For a list of participating restaurants, visit www.visitnewportbeach.com/restaurant-month.
Editor’s Note: We will publish Offer Highlights and the Grand Prize Getaways each week, so sign up now at www.visitnewportbeach.com/restaurant-month for a Newport Beach Restaurant Month Dine Pass. The pass is instantly delivered via text and email and is ready to use. The pass can then be saved on your phone’s home screen for quick and easy access. Browse participating restaurants for al fresco dining or take-out. Arrive and simply click the “Check-In” button to redeem exclusive offers. Each “Check-In” is an entry for daily giveaways and vacation stays in Newport Beach.
Support our local restaurateurs during Newport Beach Restaurant Month
Newport Beach Restaurant Month is underway. The inaugural event, taking place now through September 30, features an interactive, mobile Dining Pass that promotes dozens of participating restaurants while offering diners an all-inclusive restaurant directory, exclusive offers, giveaways and prizes. Dine Newport Beach, a business unit of Newport Beach & Company along with the Newport Beach Restaurant Association have created “Eat. Drink. Win.” for your dining enjoyment.
Go and support our local restaurateurs while experiencing delicious dishes and refreshing libations. To sign up for the Dining Pass, visit www.visitnewportbeach.com/restaurant-month.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of Visit Newport Beach
Here is a list of participating restaurants and establishments to date.
21 Oceanfront Restaurant
A Market
A Restaurant
Atomic Creamery
Afters Ice Cream
A&O Kitchen + Bar
Arc Butcher & Baker
Avila’s El Ranchito - Corona del Mar
Avila’s El Ranchito - Newport Peninsula
Balboa Lily’s
Bayside Restaurant
B.CANDY
Blaze Pizza
Bluewater Grill
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
Buddha’s Favorite
Café Jardin
CdM
Chihuahua Cerveza
Crocker’s The Well Dressed Frank
Fable & Spirit
Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens
Five Crowns
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse Newport Beach
Flower Child
Gracias Madre Newport Beach
Great Maple
GuacAmigos
Harborside Restaurant
Helmsman Ale House
Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Jan’s Health Bar
Lido Bottle Works
Lighthouse Café
Malarky’s
Mama’s Comfort Food
Mayor’s Table Pacific Pub + Kitchen
Mutt Lynch’s
Moulin
Newport Landing Restaurant
Panini Kabob Grill
P.F. Chang’s at Fashion Island
Pescadou Bistro
Pirozzi
Port Restaurant & Bar
Reborn Coffee
Rendezvous French Bakery & Café
Royal Hen
Rusty Pelican
SHOR American Seafood Grill
SOL Mexican Cocina
Stag Bar + Kitchen
Sugar ‘n Spice
Summer House Restaurant
Sushi ii
Sushi Roku
Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
The Alley Restaurant
The Bungalow Restaurant
THE LOT
The Winery Newport Beach
Thrive Juice Lab
Topside Roof Deck Lounge
True Food Kitchen
Wilma’s Patio Restaurant
Zinqué
ENC is still enrolling in After School Nature Camp
There is still space in the Environmental Nature Center’s (ENC) upcoming sessions of After School Nature Camp. Two different time options are available: 1-4 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.
Nature Adventure Camp (students in K-3rd grade) can attend from 1-4 p.m. (must be at least 5 years of age by September 1).
Science Explorer Camp (students in 1st-5th grade) can attend from 3-5 p.m.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy of ENC
ENC Nature Camp fosters a safe learning experience in the outdoors
After School Nature Camp provides a safe learning experience while also giving campers the opportunity to get outside for fresh air, physical activity and a chance to hang out socially with their peers.
Students attending school in person or at home will be provided with critical programming they need to re-engage, re-connect and thrive.
After their virtual or in-person school day is done, campers spend time at the ENC with friends and mentors for hands-on learning, creative enrichment and expression and a chance to explore without stress.
The ENC adheres to the most up-to-date health and safety standards from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the OC Health Care Agency. Learn more about ENC’s Camp COVID-19 Policies at https://encenter.org/camps/.
To register, visit https://encenter.campbrainregistration.com.
For more information, visit www.encenter.org.
Crystal Cove Conservancy fundraiser gala goes virtual to benefit STEM programs
The 18th Annual Crystal Cove Conservancy fundraiser, usually held on the blufftop overlooking beautiful Crystal Cove, has pivoted to a livestream virtual event scheduled for Friday, Oct. 9, with all proceeds benefiting the Conservancy’s science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. Title sponsor The Resort at Pelican Hill will provide dinner and wine to-go for sponsors and underwriters.
“Underserved students in our community shouldn’t lose the opportunity to learn because of the pandemic,” said Kate Wheeler, Conservancy president and CEO. “Over the last several months, we’ve adapted all of our programs for Distance Learning platforms so we can continue to support our students and their teachers until we can bring them all back to the Park.”
Rooted in the notion that Crystal Cove State Park is an ideal outdoor classroom for cultivating young environmentalists, the Conservancy uses a social enterprise model to fund preservation, conservation and education initiatives with the goal of creating a sustainable future for Crystal Cove State Park.
Click on photo for a larger image
Courtesy Crystal Cove Conservancy
Crystal Cove Conservancy’s virtual gala will help support its STEM programs
“A Night In With Crystal Cove” will livestream at 6:30 p.m. and will include a live auction and special guest Carl Safina, ecologist and author. “In the same way our educational programs bond students to the Park and its delicate habitats, Carl’s writing, grounded in science, builds an emotional connection between his readers and the natural world – inspiring readers to real action,” said Wheeler.
The event will begin with a toast in memory of philanthropist and community leader Madeline Swinden, who was a staple of the event for more than 10 years, followed by a look at the Conservancy’s work to support students and teachers during the COVID crisis, and a live auction with villa packages from The Resort at Pelican Hill, a seven-night Mammoth getaway, and weekend stays at the Crystal Cove Beach Cottages.
Many companies, foundations and individuals have already stepped up to sponsor the event including Title Sponsor The Resort at Pelican Hill; the Gardner Grout Foundation; Eva and Doug Le Bon; the Massen Greene Foundation; Crystal Cove Beach Cottages; Lucy Donahue; the Archarios Foundation in honor of Madeline Swinden; Paula and Jeff Cole; Contrarian Group, Inc.; Stephanie Quesada and Vince Jackson; Teddie Ray; Roger’s Gardens; Fred and Wendy Salter; Shelley B. Thunen; Glenn Bozarth, Laura Davick, founder of Crystal Cove Conservancy; the MacGillivray Family Foundation; Janet and Walkie Ray; Al Bennett and Rudi Berkelhamer; and Scott and Angelica Palazzo.
For more information on the event and how to become a sponsor or purchase an opportunity drawing ticket for a three-night stay in Cottage #14 at Crystal Cove, visit https://crystalcove.org/nightin/. To register for the livestream event, visit www.cove.givesmart.com.
NBPL presents a virtual Sunday Musicale
The Newport Beach Public Library (NBPL) presents saxophonist Dr. Andrew Harrison and pianist Jason Lo in a virtual Sunday Musicale. Music lovers can view the concert for free at www.newportbeachlibrary.org/ebranch/virtual-programming. This very special concert was filmed offsite expressly for NBPL’s Sunday Musicale Series, and launched on September 20 at 9:30 a.m.
Click on photo for a larger image
Photos courtesy of NBPL
Virtuoso saxophonist Dr. Andrew Harrison
Harrison has emerged as one of today’s most unique and engaging musicians, leading him to perform hundreds of concerts throughout the United States and Europe as a chamber musician and soloist. An advocate for contemporary saxophone music, Harrison has premiered more than 30 new works by emerging and preeminent composers including Joel Love, Jules Pegram, Jim Stephenson and Jennifer Higdon, among others, which range from solo works to large ensemble premieres. He has also recorded on several acclaimed albums.
Harrison will be accompanied by Dr. Jason Lo, a recent graduate of the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music.
Pianist, teacher and chamber musician Dr. Jason Lo
Lo completed his Doctorate of Musical Arts in Piano Performance at the USC’s Thornton School of Music, studying piano with Antoinette Perry and conducting with Larry Livingston. While at USC, he served as a Keyboard Studies Graduate Teaching Assistant, and received the Outstanding Keyboard Studies Teaching Assistant Award for 2015.
This engaging performance is a part of the new series of Sunday Musicales contracted by the Newport Beach Public Library for Virtual Programming.
This event is funded by generous donations from the Friends of the Library. The NBPL presents a variety of programs that foster cultural arts enrichment. For more information, contact the library at 949.717.3800, option 2, or visit www.newportbeachlibrary.org.
Police Beat Primer
Compiled by Tom Johnson
Police Beat derives from information in the log maintained at the front counter by the Newport Beach Police Department and required under CA Government Code Section 6254 (f). The press does not have access to written police reports.
Information in the police department log is deemed reliable and StuNewsNewport is not responsible for mistakes made available as public record by the Newport Beach Police Department.
Any person arrested is innocent until found guilty in a court of law.
Abbreviations sometimes used in Police Beat:
647f – Public Intoxication; DUI – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; NFA – No fixed address; RP – Reporting/Responsible Party; UTL – Unable to locate
DUI Arrests
Leanna Bernice Alvarez, 25, Ontario – Wednesday, September 23
Tai Anh Vo, 38, San Diego – Tuesday, September 22
Adrianna Elysia Garibaldo, 25, Irvine – Tuesday, September 22
Leandro Andres Bongarra, 41, Laguna Beach – Monday, September 21
Incident Reports
Wednesday, September 23
Arrests for Being Drunk in Public
None
W. Coast Highway I Drinking in Public, Open Container, Failure to Stop and Vandalism
10:38 p.m. Brian Franco, 24, Anaheim, was arrested for drinking in public and vandalism by possessing a drill with intent to cause damage. Bail was set at $500.
10:34 p.m. Jose Alberto Benitez, 24, Anaheim, was arrested for vandalism by possessing a drill with intent to cause damage and drinking in public. Bail was set at $500.
10:31 p.m. Bryan Ojeda Ramirez, 24, Orange, was arrested for vandalism by possessing a drill with intent to cause damage, drinking in public, a driver possessing an open container, an owner/driver allowing an open container and failure to stop. Bail was set at $500.
Irvine Ave. I 2400 Block I Paraphernalia and Controlled Substance
1:25 p.m. Francisco Jesus Guillen, 36, Costa Mesa, was arrested for possession of unlawful paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance. Bail was set at $10,000.
Westminster Blvd. I 6200 Block I Westminster I Burglary, Identity Theft, Controlled Substance and Paraphernalia
10:00 a.m. Matthew Joseph Honore, 38, Huntington Beach, was arrested for identity theft, possession of unlawful paraphernalia and commercial burglary through fraud and forgery. Bail was set at $20,000.
10:00 a.m. Christina C. Zavitsanos, 36, Anaheim, was arrested for commercial burglary through fraud or forgery, identity theft and possession of a controlled substance. Bail was set at $20,000.
Tuesday, September 22
Arrests for Being Drunk in Public
None
San Joaquin Hills Road & Newport Coast Drive I Grand Theft, Conspiracy, Obstructing/Resisting, Narcotics, Battery, Acquiring Access Card and Receiving Stolen Property
8:32 p.m. Marielyna Bryana Hernandez, 27, Diamond Bar, was arrested for grand theft from buildings and conspiracy to commit a crime. Bail was set at $20,000.
8:09 p.m. Armen Davoudi, 37, Tujunga, was arrested for obstructing or resisting an executive officer, possession of a narcotic controlled substance, conspiracy to commit a crime, grand theft from buildings, obstructing or resisting a peace officer, battery on a peace officer, acquiring an access card and receiving stolen property with a value less than $950. Bail was set at $20,000.
8:08 p.m. Matilda Nazarian, 36, Sun Valley, was arrested for conspiracy to commit a crime and grand theft from buildings. Bail was set at $20,000.
Irvine Ave. & Santiago Drive I Possession of Shopping Cart and Warrant
6:30 p.m. Jesse Yoany Gonzalez, 30, San Ysidro, was arrested for possession of a shopping cart and on a warrant for bench arrest. Bail was set at $5,500.
Birch St. I 3900 Block I Obstructing/Resisting, Controlled Substance and Warrant
4:34 p.m. Nathan Andrew Day, 39, n/a, was arrested for obstructing or resisting a peace officer, possession of a controlled substance and on a warrant for theft. Bail was set at $20,000.
Newport Pier I Threatening Crime
4:10 p.m. Peter Joseph Carroll Moore, 35, Irvine, was arrested for threatening a crime with intent to terrorize. Bail was set at $50,000.
16th St. & Sea Gull Lane I Driving while Suspended/Revoked and Stun Gun
1:13 a.m. John Patrick Carolan, 50, Newport Beach was arrested for driving while suspended or revoked and being a felon in possession of a stun gun. Bail was set at $500.
Monday, September 21
Arrests for Being Drunk in Public
Hugo Cesar Guillen, 25, Stanton
W. Ocean Front I 2100 Block I Paraphernalia and Narcotics
9:02 p.m. Sarah Elizabeth Henderson, 32, Riverside, was arrested for possession of unlawful paraphernalia and possession of a narcotic controlled substance. Bail was set at $2,500.
W. Ocean Front I 1700 Block I Grand Theft, Paraphernalia and Warrant
8:58 p.m. Michael Joseph Morris, 33, Perris, was arrested for grand theft of bicycles, possession of unlawful paraphernalia and on a warrant for theft. Bail was set at $23,500.
Jamboree Road & Santa Barbara Drive I Drinking in Public
8:37 a.m. Robert Lee Roden, 58, Santa Ana, was arrested for drinking in public. Bail was set at $50.
Center Drive & Newport Center Drive I Appropriating Lost Property, Driving while Suspended/Revoked, Narcotics, Fugitive from Justice and Warrant
2:22 a.m. Dimitrios Allsendro McKay, 33, San Bernardino, was arrested for appropriating lost property, driving while suspended or revoked, possession of a narcotic controlled substance, two counts of being a fugitive from justice and on an undisclosed warrant. Bail was set at $37,500.
Editor’s Note: An arrest contains allegations that a suspect has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
