Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Baseball coach John Altobelli highlights class of eight for 2022 NHHS Hall of Fame

Eight new members have been announced for induction into the Newport Harbor High School Hall of Fame. 

The announcement, from Sara Joyce Robinson of the NHHS Alumni Association, said, “While those recognized come from different fields and have pursued diverse goals, what unites them is the quality of their work and the way they embody NHHS’s most cherished values – personal excellence and service to the community. 

Those selected include six alumni inductees: John Altobelli, class of 1981, outstanding baseball coach; Paul Le Mat, 1963, Golden Globe winning actor; Debbe Pyle Magnussen, 1974, advocate for children; Raun Thorp, 1977, creative architect; David Ullman, 1964, champion sailor; and Dr. John Vierling, 1963, groundbreaking liver doctor.

Two faculty members were also selected and include Bill Burge, a biology and marine science teacher, and Joe Robinson, a humanities teacher for seven decades.

The new Hall of Fame members will be celebrated on the evening of Thursday, Oct. 13, in the Robert B. Wentz Theater as part of Homecoming Week festivities. The honorees will gather in front of the school at 6:30 p.m. to kick off a meet-and-greet hour and the ceremony will commence at 7:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, so all are welcome.

• • •

Speaking of our schools. Finally, I had coffee with new Superintendent Wesley Smith. What a breath of fresh air. Wes is engaged in our schools as he should be, but also out and about in our community bringing both together.

To me, that means good things ahead for the Newport-Mesa Unified School District.

Along those lines, the community faces a very important November election for our school board. Longtime incumbent Karen Yelsey is stepping down, much to my chagrin. Fortunately, she’s hand selected Lisa Pearson who she hopes to follow in her footsteps.

Lisa has longtime involvement in local schools, including PTA president and multiple volunteer roles at both Lincoln Elementary and CdM High School as her three children moved through the ranks.

She also spent time at one point in the classroom and was named Teacher of the Year, so she’s the real deal.

Michelle Barto, the current chair for the NMUSD board, is also running for reelection in District 5. She’s been extremely involved as you might imagine.

Here’s a concern you all should be aware of. Those running against Barto and Pearson are running on a platform of tearing our district apart and then attempting to rebuild it.

My question would be, why? 

Both of our high schools are under terrific principals in Sean Bolton (NHHS) and Jacob Haley (CdMHS). Wesley has a very clear direction on how he plans to run the district. Employees seem fired up and freed up with his leadership after only a short period of time and already are showing new signs of flourishing. It appears it’s only getting better.

And, if that’s not enough, every year students graduate from our high schools and their colleges of choice becomes a list of all the best schools in the country. It’s always extremely impressive.

So, in my estimation, the last thing we need to do is “tear it apart.”

Even Barbara George, who is running against Pearson, says on her website, “Newport-Mesa schools have always been some of the best educational environments in the nation. As a mother whose children are currently in our community’s public schools, Barbara has every intention to make sure Newport-Mesa Unified School District remains one of the best places for your child’s education.”

So, why say in one breath our system is broken and in the next say it’s “the best.” I know, it’s political speak.

I believe the best course is keeping in the direction we’ve been heading and that means Barto and Pearson.

Now, for anyone saying that I should have reached out to the opposition, I tried. I contacted both George and Reina Shebesta, who’s running against Barto, in an attempt to meet and did not receive a response.

And that’s okay, it just helped me make up my mind. 

Truth be told, I also tire of what I perceive as continual shenanigans happening with the board at the Orange County Department of Education and those are the people endorsing George and Shebesta, along with a group who call themselves “Newport-Mesa Uncensored.”

The ironic piece to Newport-Mesa Uncensored is that they’re a group that says they’re not in favor of censorship, but their goal is actually censoring books in the libraries. This is all related back to a book that found its way into a Costa Mesa school library that was not age appropriate. Should it have been there? No. Did the district/board respond appropriately upon its discovery, absolutely.

To be clear, I’m not advocating age-inappropriate books…I just feel like an unfortunate problem occurred and the district responded quickly to alleviate any concerns. This group introduced a petition trying to formalize a group to review everything in our school libraries. It’s a complete overreaction.

• • •

Mario Marovic of local restaurant fame has been named the Newport Beach Businessperson of Year by the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce. Marovic, whose restaurants include Malarky’s Irish Pub, Stag Bar, Muldoon’s, Wild Goose, Dory Deli, Playa Mesa, The Country Club, Super Panga Taqueria and Blackie’s, is regularly in the forefront of community volunteerism and fundraising.

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Police Files

Cyclist identified in recent hit-and-run death on Jamboree Road

On Sunday, Sept. 11, at approximately 8:26 a.m., the Newport Beach Police Department responded to a traffic collision involving a vehicle and bicyclist on Jamboree Road south of University Drive. The involved vehicle fled the scene without the driver stopping or checking on the welfare of the bicyclist.

Newport Beach Police officers arrived on scene and located citizens attempting to render aid to the adult male bicyclist. Despite their lifesaving efforts, the bicyclist was pronounced deceased on scene by the Newport Beach Fire Department.

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Courtesy of Marianne Cintron’s Facebook page

Randon Cintron, an avid cyclist, was killed in a recent hit-and-run

Shortly thereafter, Newport Beach Police officers located the suspect vehicle and the driver in the nearby Eastbluff neighborhood. The driver, Adriana Bernal, a 36-year-old female was taken into custody without incident.

Through the course of the investigation, Bernal was found to be under the influence of a drug at the time of the collision. Due to a prior arrest for DUI, the driver was ultimately arrested for 187(a) CPC – Murder and 20001(a) CVC – Hit and Run.

The deceased cyclist was identified by the Orange County Coroner’s office as Randon Cintron, 45, of Costa Mesa.

A GoFundMe page was established to assist the mother of the deceased with funeral and related costs. 

Services will take place at Forest Lawn, on Monday, Oct. 3 at 9:30 a.m.

Newport Beach & Company appoints Ashley Johnson as Senior VP & Chief Marketing Officer

Newport Beach & Company, the global destination marketing agency for the City of Newport Beach, announces the appointment of Ashley Johnson, CDME as its new senior vice president and chief marketing officer. An award-winning executive, industry veteran and top businesswoman in Orange County, Johnson is tapped to propel Newport Beach & Company’s illustrious full-service destination marketing into its next chapter.

In her new role starting on October 3, Johnson joins the Newport Beach & Company C-Suite to take the helm of the marketing department as the new architect of its storytelling, advertising, communications, social media, content, digital, creative, business intelligence and community relations. Her mission is to continue sparking global passion for Newport Beach, bringing the global jetsetter to its shores which drives revenue to all corners of the destination.

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Courtesy of Newport Beach & Company

Ashley Johnson

“With tourism as a top economic driver for the City of Newport Beach that brings millions of dollars to benefit public services, provide jobs and keep local businesses thriving, we were prudent in our search to find the right person with the right vision to target visitors within a competitive California tourism landscape,” said Gary Sherwin, president & CEO, Newport Beach & Company. “After a judicious process, we are pleased to announce Ashley Johnson as our new chief marketing officer who is the absolute best person for this vital role in the community. With her local destination marketing expertise, creative vision, discerning business acumen and industry accolades, she is ready to hit the ground running and make positive impacts in Newport Beach.”

Johnson joins Newport Beach & Company with 16 years of marketing and communications experience in the hospitality industry, having spent the lion’s share of her career in a variety of leadership roles at local DMO, Visit Laguna Beach. Most recently, Johnson headed up the organization as president & CEO, where she oversaw operations, marketing, media relations, community relations, advocacy, staff management/administration and the official visitors center.

“I have followed Newport Beach & Company closely throughout my career and have long-admired its entrepreneurial spirit and impactful 360° marketing initiatives which have clearly resulted in a remarkable presence among visitors and within the national tourism industry,” said Ashley Johnson, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, Newport Beach & Company. “As I spend most of my free time and weekends frequenting the beaches, outstanding restaurants and local businesses in Newport Beach, I am thrilled to be representing a city that I personally love and have created wonderful memories in. I look forward to building on the momentum in place and working collaboratively with the team, board of directors, hospitality partners and community.”

Johnson received her Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) accreditation in 2015 and serves on numerous industry boards and committees including Destinations International, Destination Marketing Association of the West, Visit California and the California Travel Association. She is a proud winner of several prestigious awards including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Achievement in Children’s Programming; Top Businesswomen in Orange County by the Orange County Business Journal in 2021; a 2020 Poppy Award for “Best Overall Brand Identity” by Visit California; an Addy Award for Best Integrated Marketing Campaign; Best Dining Tourism Program in the Country; Best Destination Marketing Campaign in California; Best Social Media Campaign in the Country to Promote a Destination; and was named one of “30 Emerging Leaders Under 30” by the California Travel Association.

Take Five: Meet Newport Beach Fire Dept. Battalion Chief Brian McDonough

By AMY SENK

Earlier this month, many of us in Newport Beach woke up to the smell of smoke and outdoor furniture covered in ash from the nearby Hemet fire. If you do an online search of “California wildfires,” it’s hard to know which story to click first. Wildland fires, it seems, are happening all around us, and even when they aren’t in our city, members of the Newport Beach Fire Department are often called on to help. I caught up with NBFD Battalion Chief and Strike Team Leader Brian McDonough to learn more. 

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Photos courtesy of NBFD

NBFD Battalion Chief Brian McDonough

Q: How did you end up a firefighter? 

A: My dad was a police officer, and my mom was a nurse – public service is what I grew up with. I was drawn to the fire service because I realized that I enjoy the aspect of helping people directly in the moment for whatever problem they are having rather than helping people abstractly through enforcement of laws, keeping the peace, or arresting criminals.

Q: Not too long ago at a CdM Chamber event, the NB Fire Chief Jeff Boyles described some of your responsibilities, particularly in organizing and commanding mutual aid fire responses. Can you tell me more about how that works and what happens when you get called into action?

A: The Master Mutual Aid System is difficult to explain and understand if you do not work in it. When there is a large-scale event – say a big fire – that one agency, city, or county can’t handle on their own, they rely on the Master Mutual Aid System. This is a statewide system managed by the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES). The system was put in place to share the burden and resources needed to combat large-scale emergency incidents. The state is broken into six operational regions. Newport Beach is in Region 1, which includes the counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Los Angeles and Orange. When there is a big fire, resources are requested from a city or county agency through CalOES. CalOES then starts requesting resources from different regions. Typically, they start closest to the fire, then work outward keeping the units relatively close to their home agencies. However, the past several years due to the size of the events, the number of events happening simultaneously, the large number of resources required for each event, and staffing shortages and fatigue, units have been requested from farther away and sometimes out of state.

What happens when we get called? A resource request is usually made in the form of a Strike Team. A Strike Team is “five pieces of similar equipment and a leader.” In our case, five fire engines and a battalion chief who is the Strike Team Leader. There are different kinds of equipment and strike teams of specific equipment that can be ordered. A request can also be made for a Task Force, which is a mix of different types of equipment and a leader who is the Task Force Leader. We don’t deal with that too much in Orange County. All Orange County Fire Departments contribute units to these requests. Each agency maintains a daily running list of what units throughout Orange County will be part of a mutual aid team if one is requested. At the NBFD, we actually have four teams lined out on paper and the crews are ready to respond when and if needed. When a request comes into the MetroNet dispatch center, the various units throughout the county are notified and dispatched to the incident. The assigned five engines and the battalion chief will typically meet at a fire station in the direction of where the team is being sent. Most of the time we meet at the NorthNet Training Center in Anaheim. Once there, the 22 people, consisting of four persons on each engine, the Strike Team Leader and, in some cases, a Strike Team Leader Trainee, will introduce ourselves. The Strike Team Leader conducts a briefing about where we are going, the current progress of the fire, the route of travel, communications and how we will handle any mechanical issues along the way. Then, usually in about 15-20 minutes after everyone arrives, we get on the road. Our countywide goal is for each unit to be heading for the meet up location within 15 minutes of getting the call. That is 15 minutes to pack your gear and call your family to tell them you may not be home for two to three weeks. While we usually know we are on the list and next to get the call, it’s still a huge impact on families. Sometimes we know some of the people we are going with, but not always. This adds a dynamic to the deployment. Not only are we going out to do something very dangerous, but we are having to learn who the people we are working with while doing it. We are extremely fortunate in Orange County. We have similar equipment and training levels. The difference comes down to experience. Fighting a house fire is completely different than fighting a wildfire. It can be very stressful working in a life and death situation when you don’t know everyone’s experience level. As the leader, having to assess people’s strengths and weaknesses and figuring out where to safely deploy people is difficult. It is also very rewarding after a successful deployment. It is one of my favorite aspects of my job. 

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The 23rd Annual Newport Beach Film Festival returns

Attracting nearly 60,000 attendees to Orange County, the Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) is the largest international cinema event in coastal Southern California, connecting its audience with the very best in U.S. and international films. Spotlighting more than 300 films, the Festival presents nightly parties and events featuring more than 60 culinary partners with their finest tastings. The Festival will also hold its annual Honors and Variety’s “10 Actors to Watch.” 

The Film Festival runs October 13-20 at venues throughout Newport Beach; the NBFF Honors and Variety’s “10 Actors to Watch” takes place on Sunday, Oct. 16 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

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Courtesy of NBFF

The Newport Beach Film Festival will spotlight more than 300 films along with nightly parties and events

Past Newport Beach Film Festival honorees include Harvey Keitel, Regina Hall, Ray Liotta, Jeffrey Wright, Kate Beckinsale, Benedict Cumberbatch, Cynthia Erivo, Henry Golding, Keira Knightley, Rita Moreno, Patrick Stewart, Alfre Woodard, among others.

Recognized as one of the largest luxury lifestyle film festivals in the U.S.,
the Newport Beach Film Festival brings an international curated collection of films and vibrant cultural gatherings to the beautiful Southern California coast. Committed to championing the work of original storytellers from around the globe, the Festival celebrates contemporary screen culture as well as cinematic excellence and engages the community in compelling conversations with filmmakers and artists. The Newport Beach Film Festival is sponsored in part by UCI Health, Los Angeles Times, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Fashion Island, Aston Martin and the City of Newport Beach.

For Festival passes and tickets, visit www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com.

Traveling the world, it’s part of the job…and better yet, a family vacation

By GARY SHERWIN

Sitting around the Thanksgiving table last year and seeing our family enjoying themselves, I decided I had enough.

It was a wonderful meal; the wine was flowing as were the funny stories. People were talking over each other as three or four elaborate tales were being told at the same time. Crazy cousin Tony was saying something outrageous as he got his third helping of turkey and my niece Jilly broke into song for no reason. In other words, it was delightful chaos.

That’s when I decided that as we headed into the holiday season, I didn’t want more stuff. I wanted more of this.

Surveys have said for some time now that people are prioritizing experiences over material goods and that trend has only accelerated during the pandemic.

When you can’t see family members or go out and do things, that only makes you want them more and that Thanksgiving dinner really brought that point home.

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Courtesy of Visit Newport Beach

Gary Sherwin

That’s when I suggested to my family that they could save their pricey gifts this holiday season. Let’s do something that we could do together that could be outrageously fun.

And that was the birth of our European family cruise that began yesterday. As you read this, we are in Copenhagen embarking on a 10-day adventure that will take us to eight cities along the Baltic Sea and will end in London.

There is a very old 1969 comedy called If it’s Tuesday, It Must be Belgium, that tells the tale of a group of American visitors taking an 18-day tour of several cities in Europe in a desperate attempt to see as much as possible. As you can imagine, it doesn’t go particularly well. Despite that movie being made more than 50 years ago, we Americans are still in the habit of trying to go to countries so we can check the box of being there even if it is only for a few hours. Then we can brag to friends when we get home that we’ve been in Luxembourg, even if we only stopped there for lunch in a café on our way to someplace else.

I’m reminded of that film as we started planning for this trip shortly after that Thanksgiving dinner. And ironically, we are going to Belgium.

We wanted to go to places that most of us hadn’t already visited before, and that is why we settled on a cruise. It’s an efficient way to see lots of places, but you certainly don’t go deep into a destination. It’s more like a buffet where you can sample lots of cities without any place being the main course.

There are six of us on this trip including my wife and daughters along with a husband and a boyfriend. A big plus in all of this is that we actually enjoy spending time with each other which was a big consideration when I proposed this idea.

So here it is, the tourism guy is going to take his own medicine. I talk all the time about our industry and its ins and outs. Now after more than two years of taking only a few trips around the country and venturing to Canada once for a meeting, I’m really going to travel.

Despite all my years in tourism and being fortunate to go around the world, I have no illusions that this will be a totally smooth trip. I will forget to bring something. A flight will be delayed, or God forbid, cancelled. The weather won’t always be wonderful. Stuff will happen.

But that is what a family vacation is all about. I might know some travel rules of the road, but when you are in it, it sometimes gets forgotten. Frustrations build up from long lines to get into an historical site or the waiter is particularly slow in serving the meal. I will forget all those tips that I often discuss in this column and will become just a mortal traveler.

Studies have shown that often the best part of a vacation is the anticipation. Just thinking about and planning a trip is part of the experience and our family certainly felt that. We’ve spent that last several months excitedly planning excursions into what places we wanted to see in ports. Some of these we will do as a family and other times we will break up and go our own ways.

As my daughters and their significant others explore Paris, my wife and I will take a train and go see the beaches of Normandy, which we’ve always wanted to do. Hopefully that train will run on time. In Berlin, one of my daughters wanted to see a former concentration camp and I just want to see Checkpoint Charlie.

There are many ways this trip could go sideways and I’m trying to prepare myself for that. As a tourism guy, I should have all of this buttoned up and I should be able to navigate the tricky things that gum up vacations. It’s all “should.” But I likely won’t and something will happen.

But all those things that go wrong will become the fodder for wonderful tales that we will all enjoy sharing around the table this Thanksgiving when we gather again. The warts of the trip will become the gems.

So, I’ll be gone from this space for a few weeks as I no doubt gather more material from the travel frontlines. Some of it will be beautiful and I expect some of it will be unpleasant.

But I’m ready for all of it because that’s what building memories is all about and that’s the gift I really wanted. Wish us luck.

Gary Sherwin is President & CEO of Visit Newport Beach and Newport Beach & Company.

Coastal Cleanup Day at the Bay 2022

On Saturday, Sept. 17, more than 500 volunteers removed an estimated 5,424 lbs. of trash from 11 different sites around the Upper Newport Bay.

According to the California Coastal Commission’s preliminary results, tens of thousands of Californians turned out that Saturday morning to pick up 250,563 pounds of trash and recyclables in California’s largest annual volunteer event.

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Courtesy by Maggie Batara

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Courtesy by Maggie Batara

Upper Newport Bay was just one of 600 cleanup sites across the state. 

In addition to four fireworks, 15 tires and 24 diapers, items found included:

–7,371 foam pieces (less than 2.5 cm)

–4,877 plastic pieces (less than 2.5 cm)

–2,399 plastic bottle caps

–2,352 food wrappers

–2,189 foam takeout containers

–2,009 plastic beverage bottles

–1,251 glass pieces (less than 2.5 cm)

–1,164 plastic lids

–1,137 foam cups & plates

–1,029 cigarette butts

Newport Bay Conservancy extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to volunteer their time to clean up the beautiful Back Bay.

They appreciate their partners and sponsors including the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, City of Newport Beach, OC Parks, Aveva Action for Good, Katrina Foley (Supervisor, Second District), Kingston Technology, Fidelity Cares, Costa Mesa Sanitary District, Geosyntec Consultants, SpectraTees, Orange Coast College, Sprouts Farmers Market, Newport Aquatic Center, WARE Disposal, Newport Auto Center, Alere Property Group and Newport Sea Base.

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Courtesy of Michael Jiang

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Courtesy of Cassandra Radcliff

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Courtesy of Sandy Doig

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Courtesy of Cassandra Radcliff

If you were unable to come out on Coastal Cleanup Day, the Back Bay cleanup crew meets every other Sunday morning from October through February and invites you to join them.

For more information on how you can get involved, contact the Newport Bay Conservancy Community Programs Administrator Hilary Cunningham at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Mark your calendars for the next Coastal Cleanup Day at the Bay on September 16, 2023.

Cars & Coffee at OASIS made for a great turnout

There was a great turnout for OASIS Senior Center’s Cars & Coffee on Saturday morning, Sept. 24) with more than 60 cars and motorcycles.

Everyone had a memorable time, and they handed out eight trophies.

After four years of presenting this show, OASIS was slowly becoming one of the premier Cars & Coffee car shows in Orange County.

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Photos by Chris Suarez

Tom Miller, candidate for Newport Beach City Council, brought his “racy orange” McLaren and chatted with the crowd 

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Owner Lee Stacy brought his 2018 ZO6 red Corvette

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Greg Paulatian’s yellow Chevy El Camino waits to be judged 

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Joe Gough displayed his baby blue 1957 T-Bird

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Dave Miller and his historic 1959 356B Convertible D Porsche

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A spectator is checking out this classic 1947 Ford Woody Wagon

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David Granoff’s black “bad to the bone” AM General Hummer 

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Kevin Spangler with his super clean 1957 red Chevy Nomad and his 3rd grade teacher

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Pat Corbin with his 1965 Pontiac GTO

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(L-R) A very proud Ted Leventhal with Mike Zimmerman (Friends of OASIS past president), received the Best of Show award for his 1951 Chevy green and white custom convertible

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Cynthia McWhirt (the original owner) with her 1966 Ford Mustang won the Friends of OASIS Choice Award

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Motorcycles were also part of the show, with the owners/drivers including OASIS Maintenance Manager Chris Suarez, Gary Gough and surprisingly Newport Beach former mayor, Ed Selich, who showed up with his brand new orange Harley Davidson

Congratulations to this year’s winners:

–Best Motorcycle: Gary Gough’s “Royal Enfield” with side car

–Friends of OASIS Choice Award: Cynthia McWhirt’s 1966 Mustang

–President’s Award: Paul Conant’s 2020 Civic “R”

–People’s Choice Award: Pat Cobin’s 1965 GTO

–Best Original: Kevin Spangler’s 1957 Chevy Nomad

–Best Custom: Dave Zink’s red 1937 modified Ford

–Best of Show Import: Dave Miller’s 1959 Porsche 356B

–Best of Show: Ted Leventhal’s 1951 Chevrolet Convertible

According to Mike Zimmerman, Friends of OASIS past president, “I think we had close to 300 people attend OASIS from our community. City Councilmembers and future candidates attended as well.”

For more information on Friends of OASIS and show photos, visit https://friendsofoasis.org/Cars-and-Coffee-2022.html.

SPON to feature JWA Director at annual meeting

Does John Wayne Airport (JWA) have plans to expand its runway? Come find out at SPON’s (Stop Polluting Our Newport) annual meeting on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach. The event is free and open to the public. Coffee, tea and light refreshments will be served.

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 Courtesy of JWA

John Wayne Airport Director Charlene Reynolds

The featured guest speaker will be the recently appointed John Wayne Airport Director, Charlene Reynolds. Reynolds will share her thoughts on the Settlement Agreement and provide updates on airport activities, passenger counts and any proposed (or rumored) runway expansion plans. 

“We are excited to welcome the new JWA Director and introduce her to our engaged Newport Beach community members,” said SPON President Charles Klobe. “As a signatory on the 1985 Settlement Agreement, which established the nighttime curfew and annual passenger caps for commercial aircraft, SPON remains committed to building a positive relationship with the airport, and ensuring we protect and preserve the environmental and residential qualities in Newport Beach.” 

Please RSVP for SPON’s annual meeting to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Environmental Nature Center is located at 1601 East 16th St., Newport Beach.

On the Harbor: Dredging the Wedge and the upcoming Harbor 20 Championships

By LEN BOSE

I am sure that most of the Stu News Newport readers picked up Tom Johnson’s story, “Don’t look now, but major problems are brewing at The Wedge and it’s not good! Reader Kathy Frazer brought to Johnson’s attention the severe sand erosion there. Caused by the recent storm coming up the Baja coast. At the end of the story Johnson writes: “Hopefully, we can get this message to some folks who may be able to help.”

Well done, Johnson – you pulled on the right finger. That morning when the story was released, I received a call from my favorite Harbor Commissioner which led to me following up with Public Works Administrative Manager Chris Miller. It just so happens that the City of Newport Beach is hoping to start dredging soon and the native material from digging the Confined Aquatic Disposal (CAD) construction project will provide 270,000 cubic yards of native material to you and me, which refers to clean compatible sand that can be placed just to the west of the Wedge in the near-shore zone. This zone is called a disposal zone with three cells that stretches from the Wedge to Newport Pier.

Courtesy of City of Newport Beach

Graphic shows near-shore disposal area and sand dollar beds. CAD not to scale.

According to Miller, “We will be replenishing our ocean beaches in that same region with our project. Even though there is never any one catchall solution for sand management along any coastline, this project will significantly contribute to our ocean beaches in the Wedge area.”

What Miller can’t say is that this is guaranteed to solve all of the Wedge’s beach erosion problems. What he did enlighten me on was that sand, when deposited in a near-shore zone, will naturally flush onto the surrounding beaches.

For example, the Surfside Sunset Project which has been going on since the 1960s, places sand in a near-shore zone and along the beach to protect the homes in Sunset Beach. Eventually, this sand deposited off of Sunset Beach will work its way down to the Wedge. “The current CAD project is a one-time project of significant quantity. This will directly contribute to the Wedge beach area,” Miller said.

This won’t be the first time the city has disposed/replaced beach quality sand in the Newport near-shore side zone. Smaller deposits have been made during the Upper Bay dredging and when Marina Park was built. Going back in history to 1935 when the harbor was first dredged, the ocean waves were only 100 feet from the boardwalk, but now the beach extends out 300-400 feet. This accounts for the wide beach we see today on the oceanfront side of the Peninsula. During this first dredging project, more than 8.5 million tons of sand were dredged onto our beaches.

I’d like to quote Albert Soiland who worked long and hard to obtain the funding, who wrote at the conclusion of his book, The Saga of Newport Bay and The Newport Harbor Yacht Club, written in 1936 to coincide with the official dedication of the improved Harbor. Soiland paid tribute to the many who deserved so much credit for turning what had seemed impossible into a reality: “The whole story of the fight by citizens of Newport Beach and its city officers to achieve a harbor could never be fully written nor appreciated. Keeping everlastingly at it with determination and steadfast purpose has accomplished what once seemed impossible. The City of Newport Beach through its mayor and council donated liberally to the cause as did private citizens and the yachting fraternity provided the means for the fruition of our lifetime ambitions.”

I am going to step out on a plank here, because I have many friends (and I hope they will remain friends) when I say – let’s do this! The CAD construction project is a means to a solution to dredging our harbor to its designed depth. The replenishment of sand to the Wedge beach is just another reason for taking the ball over the goal line at this time. To my friends and readers who don’t agree with me on this topic and would like to have their opinions read in my column, send your comments to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. I can’t guarantee that your sand will make it into my column, yet it will significantly contribute to me understanding your opinions.

• • •

This weekend is the Harbor 20 Fleet Championships and the weather forecast is for 82 degrees with the wind out of the west at 8-11 knots. We will all be out on the harbor doing our best to take the title in our divisions. Don’t tell of my wife, Jennifer, but I purchased a new main sail just for this event. At the time of this writing, it looks like Debra & Peter Haynes are the favorites in B Fleet. This team has always sailed consistently during the championships. They will have to keep teams Corkett and Fuller behind them to reach this goal. In A fleet, the odds are with Shana’s Secret skipper Philip Thompson along with crew Mark Conzelman. This team has dominated this summer’s sailing season. Yet, you never know how Ping will sail; Anne and Kurt Wiese are known for their consistency with the light breeze forecast and that’s what its going to take to win this event. Then there is sheer boat speed that can take the event and that’s Zephyr sailed by two of our harbor’s best sailors – Skipper Greg Helias and crew Justin Law. This will be a great series because you shouldn’t count out the rest of the fleet. Any of the remaining participants, me included, can put the dots together, surprising everyone.

Wish me luck!

Sea ya.

~~~~~~~~

Len Bose is a yachting enthusiast, yacht broker and harbor columnist for Stu News Newport.

Susan G. Komen’s OC MORE THAN PINK Walk this Sunday, Sept. 25

Susan G. Komen^®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization, will hold an in-person OC MORE THAN PINK Walk to raise critical funds that support breast cancer patients in the community who are in need of direct patient services such as patient navigation and screening and diagnostics. 

The Komen OC MORE THAN PINK Walk will be held on this Sunday, Sept. 25 at Pacific Life Insurance Company at Fashion Island, Newport Beach. 

“We look forward to seeing our community that includes anyone impacted by breast cancer as we gather again, in person, for this year’s OC MORE THAN PINK Walk. Funds raised support Komen’s work in research and patient care services that are important to our community including patient navigation and screening and diagnostics,” said Robin Walker, development director of OC Susan G. Komen. 

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Courtesy of Susan G. Komen^®

Three women participating in a previous Komen MORE THAN PINK Walk. This year’s OC event will be held at Pacific Life Insurance Company at Fashion Island, Newport Beach.

“For 30 years, Komen is a proud partner with our local OC community. Together we have raised more than $50 million to provide critically needed breast health services. With the economic downturn affecting those we serve, the demand for Komen services is greater than ever,” said Walker. “We are grateful for everyone who is fundraising now, for our Walk teams, sponsors and volunteers who make it possible for the women and men of OC facing breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer to receive the support they need.” 

Komen is pleased to welcome returning Walk sponsors this year including Pacific Life Insurance Company; Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie Company; Kaiser Permanente Orange County; Mentor Worldwide LLC; City of Newport Beach; Hoag Family Cancer Institute; Pepsi/Frito-Lay; UCI Health; KABC-TV and Cox Communications. Mother’s Markets, Albertsons, Vons, Pavilions; Amgen; American Bone Health; Agendia; OC Fire, Local 3631; Simplify Asset Management; Thales Avionics; Keck Medicine of USC Newport Beach and Ware Malcomb are new sponsors for this year’s Walk. 

Additionally, Jessica DeNova, KABC-TV reporter, will serve as Emcee of the OC Walk. 

Participants can expect to enjoy the following at the OC Walk:

–Complimentary breakfast for top fundraisers.

–Free T-shirts for breast cancer survivors and MBC thrivers.

–Pathway of Hope Parade honoring breast cancer survivors and MBC thrivers.

–Hope Village where survivors and those living with MBC can gather.

–Participants can bring a photo to place with a special message to honor a loved one at the WE REMEMBER tent.

–RESEARCH, CARE, COMMUNITY AND ACTION tents for participants to see how their support makes a difference in the OC.

–Personalized back signs to share who serves as inspiration to walk.

–Local sponsors and vendors providing educational and resource information for patients and survivors.

–DJ Desi’s to provide music.

–Live marching band. 

Walk schedule:

–6:30 a.m.: Event opens

–8:30 a.m. Pathway of Hope Parade & Opening Ceremony

–9 a.m.: MORE THAN PINK Walk begins 

To register and for more information, visit www.komen.org/orangecountywalk.

Susan G. Komen^® is the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working to save lives and end breast cancer forever. Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. They advocate for patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people with trustworthy information. Founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life, Komen remains committed to supporting those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching for tomorrow’s cures. Visit www.komen.org, or call 1.877.GO.KOMEN (4656636). Connect with them on social at www.komen.org/contact-us/follow-us/.

Newport Beach Library presents Meet the Author event on September 27

Could 90 be the new 40? Find out when Newport Beach Library holds a Meet the Author event with five-time No. 1 bestselling author, Dr. Michael Roizen, who will talk about cracking the longevity code and how to prepare for a longer, healthier future.

The event takes place on Tuesday, Sept 27 from 7-8:30 p.m. in Central Library’s Friends Room.

Courtesy of NBPL

Author Dr. Michael Roizen

Dr. Roizen has co-authored (with Dr. Oz) more than 15 books, including some of the series of “You” books that began with the No. 1 bestseller, You: The Owner’s Manual: An Insider’s Guide to the Body that Will Make You Healthier and Younger.

At Central Library’s Meet the Author event, Dr. Roizen will present his new book, The Great Age Reboot. Over the next decade, living to more than 100 years old will become increasingly common – and may not look like what you expect. In this groundbreaking narrative, Dr. Roizen will reveal how current science and technology will revolutionize our ability to live longer, younger and better.

Seating is limited and registration is strongly recommended for this free program. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Register for this free event here.

Newport Beach Central Library is located at 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach.

John Tesh makes encore performances at Campus JAX

After overwhelming responses to his two amazing sold out performances on September 9-10, Campus JAX is pleased to present two John Tesh encore shows on Friday, Oct. 7 and Saturday, Oct. 8 at 8 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

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Courtesy of Campus JAX

John Tesh

According to Jack Jasper, owner of Campus JAX, “John Tesh’s Red Rock performance raised more than $7.5 million in donations. He has numerous awards for his television shows, albums and a new best-selling book about being a stage 3 survivor since 2013. His positivity, sense of humor and musical talents are all showcased in this extremely well curated performance.”

Tesh and his eight-piece band will appear for two intimate evenings at the OC’s favorite music and supper club. In addition, Tony Guerrero, Mark Visher and some other wonderful musicians will be making appearances. 

For tickets and more information, go here.

Campus JAX is located at 3950 Campus Drive, Newport Beach.

School Notes

School was in for summer

Anyone who says summer school isn’t in vogue these days hasn’t been to class recently. This past summer, nearly 3,200 students participated in Newport-Mesa School District (NMUSD) summer programs, with 90% of parents rating the program as a positive experience for their children and 93% of secondary students rated their experience a 3 or higher on a 5-point scale.

Elementary students had the opportunity to improve their English language arts (ELA) and math skills, as well as participate in enrichment programs such as art, sports and/or science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Students also strengthened their social skills, with 82% of students reporting making at least three new friends.

In addition to writing, students learned the magic of math, the science behind bubbles, strategies behind chess, and more. After just four weeks, students presented theatrical productions of Jungle Book, Seussical Kids and Wonka, among others.

“I love school. It was so fun, and I like math and reading,” wrote one elementary summer program student.

It was no different for high schools. Nearly 1,500 secondary students participated to catch up on their academic studies or earn additional credits toward graduation requirements. Overall, secondary students recovered more than 3,600 credits, and earned more than 900 initial credits to get ahead of the 2022-23 school year.

While some students remediated academic credits, others earned credit for health, government or economics classes. Students also enhanced their skills through participation in arts or culinary classes. 

NMUSD summer programs were offered to students at no cost and included breakfast and lunch. 

Virtual college and career night coming October 19

Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD), in partnership with Vital Link OC, is presenting a Virtual College and Career Night on Wednesday, Oct. 19, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. The event is open to all 7-12 grade students and their families.

The Virtual College and Career Night will offer various opportunities to learn about college programs and assistance, as well as connect with more than 200 colleges and universities from throughout the United States and internationally. There will be career-related workshops, as well as workshops focused on college preparation and success, interactive industry panels, a live FAFSA breakout session, NCAA information and virtual campus tours.

Visit the Virtual College and Career Night websitefor more information. Registration is required to attend. Be sure to register with your personal email, not your school email, so that college representatives can communicate with you directly regarding any inquiries or follow-up requests. An access code will be sent to your registration email prior to the event.

ENC’s Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary to open to the public on weekends starting October 1

The Environmental Nature Center’s (ENC) Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary will be open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. starting October 1. The property includes a natural history museum, trails and bird observation deck. The Sanctuary is located at 29322 Modjeska Canyon Road in Modjeska Canyon. 

 ENC acquired the 12-acre sanctuary in 2021 and made upgrades to the facility – including installing ADA compliant restrooms and restoring the historic Tucker Residence – over the past year. They hired staff, ran Summer Nature Camps over the summer, developed curricula for school and scout programs, and started running field trips for school groups and scout troops. Habitat restoration started with removal of numerous non-native plants. Some locally native, wildlife friendly plants have been planted and many more will join them this fall.

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 Courtesy of ENC

ENC’s Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary will provide opportunities similar to those at the ENC Newport Beach facility:

–Open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (starting October 1)

–Exclusive ENC member hours, Monday-Friday from 2-5 p.m.

–Field trips on weekdays for school groups

–Badge programs for scout troops

–Nature Camps, service learning, community programs and more 

Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary began in 1929 when Benjamin and Dorothy Tucker welcomed visitors to their bird observation deck in the Santa Ana Mountains. This site was dedicated as a wildlife sanctuary by the Tucker Family in 1939 and deeded to California Audubon as a memorial for Dorothy. From 1968-2021, the property was managed by California State University, Fullerton (CSUF). In 2021, CSUF sold the property to the ENC after a selection process led by the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society (formerly California Audubon).

“We are committed to Benjamin and Dorothy Tucker’s legacy. The Tuckers wanted their property to be conserved as a wild bird sanctuary, refuge and preserve, and that is how we will manage it,” said Bo Glover, executive director of the ENC. “We have already started hosting school and scout groups, and we’re excited to open our doors to the community in October.

For more information, visit www.encenter.org/tucker.

Inspiring beauty

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Photo by Stacia Stabler

On Cloud 9 at Inspiration Point in Corona del Mar

Letters to the Editor

Stapleton’s experience will make him ready on day one

In the November election, voters have a choice between longtime community leader Joe Stapleton and newcomer to Newport Beach Tom Miller.

I am supporting Joe Stapleton. Joe has decades of experience in working to improve our city. As a member of the Finance Committee his oversight has contributed to our highest in the nation bond ratings and strong fiscal position. He is ready on day one to lead on financial issues. As a past Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, he understands what it takes to promote local business and he will protect our strong underlying tax base. 

Joe is committed to protecting our high quality of life. He has the experience to lead on reducing airport noise, getting homeless off the streets and reducing crime that is rising around us. That is why Newport Beach police and firefighters support Joe Stapleton.

Most importantly, Joe is an independent leader, not part of a block or team. That is why a diverse group of former mayors, who often disagree among themselves on policy, all agree that Joe Stapleton is the right choice. Leaders like Will O’Neill, Rush Hill, Tom Edwards, Keith Curry, Mike Henn, Duffy Duffield, Brad Avery, Don Webb, Bus Turner and current mayor Kevin Muldoon, all urge you to vote for Joe Stapleton.

Joe Stapleton is the best choice for Newport’s future.

Daryl Nelson

Newport Beach

Retiring incumbent reminds us of the importance of November school board election

I have been privileged to serve on the NMUSD school board for the past 16 years, after being involved in our local school as an involved parent for 18 years prior to my election. Newport-Mesa was then and is now one of the finest public school districts in the state and the country. We have exceptional school offerings, much needed student support services and award-winning schools and district programs. Any student who has the motivation and desire to achieve will graduate from one of our high schools well prepared for his or her future.   

It is concerning to me that there is a small but vocal group in Newport-Mesa who now want to destroy our school district, in their published words – “we will tear down to REBUILD.” This negativity and desire to incite anger in our school system through falsehoods, cleverly edited videos and constant attack is cause for concern. Criticism is fair, but the blatant manipulation and desire to enflame should concern everyone. 

As a trustee who has always had an open-door policy to meet or talk with any parent, it’s interesting that this group professes that the board does not listen. This is false. This group has not asked to speak with me despite my meeting with hundreds of parents during my tenure.

This same group continues to insist that Critical Race Theory (CRT) is taught in Newport-Mesa schools, without providing any specific examples. In groups of parents, students and teachers, we’ve continued to ask for examples of CRT in our classrooms, and still no concrete responses from anyone. The reality is that we don’t teach CRT, and our teachers do not receive professional development in CRT theory or practice. However, this group continues to create a narrative to enflame. 

In 2015, the state of California passed into law the California Healthy Youth Act, which requires school districts to ensure that all students in grades 7-12 receive comprehensive sex education at least once in middle school and once in high school. Schools have the option to offer sex education earlier than grade 7, which we have chosen not to do. This same group claims that we are teaching our students extreme gender identities through a Genderbread Prezi lesson. While this diagram is on the publisher’s site, our schools in Newport-Mesa don’t use this lesson. In fact, when parents have asked their students if this has been taught to them, every student responded in the negative. The falsehoods continue. 

In December 2021, the board voted to approve a special reserve fund to complete a much-needed remodel of the Home Arts Courtyard at Newport Harbor High School. DSA (Division of State Architects) approval for this remodel requires modifications to restrooms nearby the area. The board requested that facilities work on potential designs that would include single occupancy toilet stalls with sinks included. The final recommended plan has not been presented nor voted on by the board, yet this group sensationalizes its interpretation of these restrooms (implying that NMUSD will allow more than one gender into a restroom at one time) and created a falsehood to incite public outrage.   

All of these issues and more are being thrown out in hopes to tear down and rebuild our school district. Interestingly, much of this group consists of folks who don’t send children to our schools, and many seem to think that all public schools are bad. Some are, but ours aren’t. 

One of the school board candidates in Area 4 is supported by this outside group that seeks to dismantle our schools. When this candidate asked to meet with me a few months ago, she was quick to tell me that she moved to Newport Beach after researching the best public school systems in the state. On her website, she states her intention to make sure “NMUSD remains one of the best places for your child’s education.” I’m not sure what turned around for this candidate so quickly, but I would be leery of her intentions. She is backed by people who mostly don’t send their children to Newport-Mesa schools, and who support a movement to tear down our school district.

Those who feel our schools offer excellent opportunities in preparation for life after high school need to speak up in the November election. The high quality of education in Newport-Mesa is at stake. Our parents value our schools and only want to see them improve, they don’t want to destroy them. I urge parents to vote for school board candidates who value our schools, and to vote against candidates who are either part of the movement or are supported by the movement to “tear down our schools.”

In Newport Beach, I urge you to vote for Lisa Pearson (Area 4) and Michelle Barto (Area 5).

Karen Yelsey

NMUSD School Board member, District 4

Corona del Mar

Regattas and Races…

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Photo by Bronny Daniels | Joysailing.com

BYC 

2022 Little Old Ladies Regatta

September 17 

Womens A Fleet (4 races sailed)

1 Kathy Reed, ABYC, Total 5

2 Julie McPherson, SDYC, Total 10

3 Lynn Acosta, DPYC, Total 13

4 Serena Hanby, MBYC, Total 14

5 Cynthia Heavrin, ABYC, Total 18

Womens B Fleet (4 races sailed)

1 Michelle Drever, NHYC, Total 4

2 Linda Ungerland, BYC, Total 8

3 Susan Lanoue, ABYC, Total 13

4 Karen Stockman, BYC, Total 15

Mens A Fleet (4 races sailed)

1 Danny North, SDYC, Total 6

2 Scott Finkboner, MBYC, Total 9

3 Mike Hatch, SDYC, Total 10

4 Larry Coon, MBYC, Total 17

5 Michael O’Connell, SDYC, Total 21

6 Rob Vandervort, BYC, Total 23

7 Christopher Kyburg, SDYC, Total 26

8 Bob Reilly, BYC, Total 35

Mixed C Fleet (4 races sailed)

1 Lynnette Martin, MBYC, Total 7

2 Gail Kalscheur, BYC, Total 9

3 Debbie Meany, BYC, Total 13

4 Stacey Ware, SSC, Total 14

5 Teresa Power, BYC, Total 19

6 Jeffrey DesCombes, SSC, Total 23

7 Sandra Lindsey, BYC, Total 30

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..

Get out and explore Buck Gully this summer 

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

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Photos by Emily Spain

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

–Bridges of Buck Gully Hikes: 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 Saturday, Oct. 8 from 8-11:30 a.m. and Tuesdays, Nov. 11 and Dec. 6 and These bridges facilitate exploration of the Buck Gully Reserve, and also provide unique vantages and 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.

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Several bridges provide unique vantages and viewing platforms

–Buck Gully Loop Hikes: Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system on Tuesdays, Oct. 11 and Dec. 13 and Saturday, Nov. 12 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, Oct. 18 and Nov. 15 and Saturday, Dec. 20 from 3-5:30 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.

CdM’s popular Meet & Greet takes place October 16 at Sherman Gardens

The fourth Meet & Greet for residents of Corona del Mar and surrounding neighborhoods will be held in-person this year on Sunday, Oct. 16 at Sherman Gardens following a two-year hiatus, featuring food, live entertainment, contests, games and mingling with neighbors.

This popular community event will be held 3-6 p.m. with proceeds benefiting Sherman Library & Gardens, the local community treasure. With a ticket price of just $10 (kids under 10 are free), organizers promise to deliver a memorable afternoon celebrating neighbors and CdM’s beautiful neighborhoods.

The $10 ticket for adults is all-inclusive for food, live entertainment, no-host bar, the new pie contest, lawn games, prizes, “meet the candidates” and fun times with neighbors.

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Submitted photo

Expect fun and games at this year’s CdM Meet & Greet

Community partners sponsoring this event include the Corona del Mar Residents Association, the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce and Sherman Library & Gardens, which is providing the use of its beautiful 2.2-acre botanic garden.

The new pie contest is an opportunity for amateur bakers to impress their neighbors and win prizes with winners selected by celebrity judges. Everyone attending also wins, as the pies will be enjoyed by all.

Purchase tickets online at www.cdmchamber.com.Adult tickets are $10 until September 30 and $15 thereafter. Children under 10 are free.

For more information, contact Angela Cortright at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 949.922.0455.

33rd Annual Surf Championships hits the waves on September 24 and 25

The 33rd Annual City of Newport Beach Surf Championships will be held on September 24 and 25 at 54th Street Beach in Newport Beach. Presented by Salty Crew and the City of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Dept., the event is an amateur competition and features divisions of surfers if all ages.

Amateur Divisions include:

–Elementary (11 and under)

–Middle School (13-14 years)

–High School (15-18 years)

–Open Men’s (19 years+)

–Masters (30 years+)

–Legends (40 years+)

–Hall of Fame (50 years+)

–Open Girls (All ages)

Register online or in person. Entry fee: $33 (deadline is September 14); $40 on the day of the event (if spaces are available). Space is limited.

For more information, call 949.644.3151, go here.

Chabad Center for Jewish Life to hold free High Holiday services overlooking the Back Bay

With the Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah) rapidly approaching, Chabad Center for Jewish Life is organizing community-wide High Holiday Services overlooking the Back Bay.

The services, for which no admission is charged, is geared primarily to the masses of unaffiliated Jewish families residing in Orange County.

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Courtesy of Chabad Center for Jewish Life

Chabad Jewish Center’s Rabbi G blowing the shofar

According to Rabbi Reuven Mintz of the Jewish Center, “Many families don’t attend services because the Synagogue environment is foreign to them. There is a need to reach out and ensure that they too are welcomed to services on these holiest days of the Jewish year.” 

To this end, the inspirational Jewish New Year services sponsored by the Chabad Center for Jewish Life are designed to be user-friendly, making it educational, enjoyable and meaningful for both the novice and the expert. There are options for traditional and short services and for indoor and outdoor services overlooking the Back Bay. There will also be an exciting interactive children’s program.

Holy High Holiday (Jewish New Year and Yom Kippur) services include:

–Rosh Hashanah: Sunday-Tuesday, Sept. 25-27

–Yom Kippur: Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 4-5

For more information about High Holidays and services and to reserve seats, visit www.JewishNewport.com, or call 949.721.9800. 

Chabad Center for Jewish Life is located at 2240 University Drive, Newport Beach.

Newport Historical Society to hold lecture/dinner event on the history, culture of the Wedge

The Newport Beach Historical Society (NBHS) is holding a lecture/dinner event on the history and culture of the Wedge. 

You can recapture the good old days with NBHS on Thursday, Sept. 29 at 6 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom at the Balboa Pavilion.

There will be a buffet dinner and a no-host bar. The evening will feature Mel Thoman, Tim Burnham and Sean Starky, who will relate some of their surfing experiences and show film director Burnham’s epic surf film, Dirty Old Wedge.

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased here.

Balboa Pavilion is located at 400 Main St., Balboa.

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.”

Meet Sandy, sister puppy to Kira. At her very young age of approximately 5 months, she has found herself spending time as a Newport Beach Animal Shelter baby pet guest. As a shepherd mix, her young dreams are to run and play all day (with a little nap in the middle, of course). Sandy is a bit more docile than her sister and will do best in a home with a gentle, patient, committed training style. Sandy will probably grow to be a medium- to large-sized dog and her absolute best attribute, besides being a golden brown teddy bear, is that she is so sweet. Sandy is being made available for adoption, so they invite kind, stable, generous in love, active, adventure-filled adopters, that choose dogs to be family members, to contact them at either 949.718.3454, or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Courtesy of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter

Meet Sandy

In addition, they have a great new 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.

Grammy-winning Pacific Chorale opens 2022-23 season

The Grammy Award-winning Pacific Chorale, led by Artistic Director Robert Istad with special guest Pacific Symphony, launches its 2022-23 season with a program featuring Jocelyn Hagen’s The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci, a stunning multi-media work for choir, orchestra and film based on the imagery of the drawings, ideas and writing that the Renaissance artist explored in his extensive collection of personal notebooks, on Saturday, Oct. 15 at 8 p.m. at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.

Composed to honor da Vinci’s remarkable legacy on the 500th anniversary of his death in 2019, the nine-movement choral work is set to text from his notebooks, which draw on themes of art, science, nature and technology. The accompanying film, created by experimental filmmakers and video artists Isaac Gale, Joseph Midthun and Justin Schell, is set to the performers to provide flexibility with their musicality, rather than designed with a click-track that singers must follow.

The program is anchored by Duruflé’s eloquent and illuminating Requiem, considered to be his greatest work. Fusing Gregorian chant with 20th century musical concepts, it embraces a rich tapestry of human emotions. Duruflé dedicated his masterpiece, which envisions taking the departed soul to a peaceful eternity, to the memory of his father. The soloists include Pacific Chorale members Jane Hyun-Jung Shim, mezzo-soprano; and Jared Daniel Jones, bass along with frequent Chorale collaborator Jung-A Lee at the William J. Gillespie Concert Organ.

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Jocelyn Hagen’s “The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci” launches Pacific Chorale’s 2022-23 season

Regarding the inspiration for her work, Hagen explained, “The liquidity of da Vinci’s mind and the way he connected disparate ideas as a means of understanding them is genuinely inspiring. Additionally, da Vinci was known as much for his failures as his successes, which is inspiring as well. He wasn’t afraid to take ideas out of context or take risks.”

“It’s thrilling to launch Pacific Chorale’s season with Jocelyn Hagen’s remarkable choral work inspired by Leonardo da Vinci, a seminal historical figure with limitless artistry, creativity and curiosity,” said Istad. “The second half of the program builds upon that notion with Pacific Chorale showcasing Duruflé’s Requiem, an enduring masterwork that has moved and uplifted audiences around the globe since its completion 75 years ago.”

Pacific Chorale’s 2022-23 season is made possible by generous support from Platinum Season Sponsor Phillip N. and Mary A. Lyons, and Silver Season Sponsor Charles and Ling Zhang.

For tickets ($26-$142) and information, visit www.pacificchorale.org, or call 714.662.2345.

The Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall is located at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. For more information, visit www.pacificchorale.org.

Digital lottery to get under way for HAMILTON tickets

Producer Jeffrey Seller and Segerstrom Center for the Arts announced a digital lottery for HAMILTON tickets that begins in conjunction with the show’s first performance on September 28 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. A limited number of tickets will be available for every performance for $10 each. 

The lottery will first open at 10 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 16 and will close at 12 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22 for tickets to performances September 28-October 2. Subsequent digital lotteries will begin on each Friday and close the following Thursday for the upcoming week’s performances.

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Photo by Joan Marcus

“HAMILTON” Eliza National Tour starring Jamael Westman – Company 1

How to Enter:

–Use the official app for HAMILTON now available for all iOS and Android devices in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store (http://hamiltonmusical.com/app).

–The lottery will open at 10 a.m. every Friday and will close for entry at 12 p.m. the next Thursday prior to the following week’s performances.

–Winner and non-winner notifications will be sent between 1 and 4 p.m. every Thursday for the upcoming week’s performances via email and mobile push notification. Winners will have two hours to claim and pay for their ticket(s).

–No purchase or payment necessary to enter or participate.

–Each winning entrant may purchase up to two (2) tickets.

–Only one entry per person. Repeat entries and disposable email addresses will be discarded.

–Lottery tickets may be picked up at will call beginning two hours prior to the performance with a valid photo ID.

–Lottery tickets void if resold.

–All times listed are in Pacific Daylight Time.

Additional Rules:

Patrons must be 18 years or older and have a valid, non-expired photo ID that matches the name used to enter. Tickets are non-transferable. Ticket limits and prices displayed are at the sole discretion of the show and are subject to change without notice.

Lottery prices are not valid on prior purchases. Lottery ticket offer cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. All sales final – no refunds or exchanges. Lottery may be revoked or modified at any time without notice. A purchase will not improve the chances of winning.

Tickets for HAMILTON are currently on sale. Patrons are advised to check the official HAMILTON channels and ticketing website for late release seats which may become available at short notice.

A bit about HAMILTON:

 HAMILTON is the story of America then, told by America now. Featuring​ a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, HAMILTON has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theater – a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education.

 With book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, HAMILTON is based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography. It has won Tony^​®​, Grammy^​®​ and Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors.

For more information on HAMILTON, visit www.hamiltonmusical.com.

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

NMUSD schedules State of the Schools Breakfast for October 11

The Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) and Newport-Mesa Schools Foundation are co-hosting the State of the Schools Breakfast on Tuesday, Oct. 11 at Newport Harbor High School beginning at 7 a.m. in the gymnasium.

The event will provide an overview of the district’s priorities for the coming year, while connecting government, community, business and education leaders.

The breakfast is a fundraiser for the foundation’s “Grants to Teachers” Program, which provides enhanced learning opportunities for students.

The event is usually a sell-out, so reserve your seats and sponsorships now.

RSVP here to reserve your seat and purchase tickets online. Donation: $33.

Newport Harbor High School is located at 600 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach.

Win a three-night stay just steps from the sand in Crystal Cove Cottage No. 14

Enjoy the magic of Crystal Cove from the “suite-est” cottage on the beach – the restored South Beach Suite – by entering this year’s opportunity drawing fundraiser. 

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Photos courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Welcome to Crystal Cove Cottage No. 14, just steps from the sand

The winner of the drawing will spend three nights in this two-story, two-bedroom, two-bath oceanfront cottage – No. 14. Occupancy is six guests. Cottage No. 14 is the only Crystal Cove beach cottage with a king-sized bed, large sunny living room and expansive private outdoor deck, just steps from the sand. All existing cottage rental rules apply. Reservation dates to be coordinated with Crystal Cove Conservancy. Restrictions apply.

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The large sunny living room

The winner will be drawn at the annual fall fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 8. Need not be present to win. 

Winners may select one date from the following weekends in 2023: January 13-15; February 10-12; March 10-12; April 7-9; May 12-14; June 9-11; July 7-9; August 11-13; September 8-10; October 13-15; November 10-12; December 8-10.

Tickets are $100 each or seven for $500. To purchase tickets, call Crystal Cove Conservancy at 949.376.6200, ext. 201.

2022 Surf Championships Amateurs Only hits the waves on September 24 and 25

Presented by Salty Crew and the City of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Dept., the 2022 Surf Championships Amateurs Only hits the waves on September 24 and 25 at 54th Street or 56th Street (depending on the best conditions) in Newport Beach.

Amateur Divisions include:

–Elementary (11 and under)

–Middle School (13-14 years)

–High School (15-18 years)

–Open Men’s (19 years+)

–Masters (30 years+)

–Legends (40 years+)

–Hall of Fame (50 years+)

–Open Girls (All ages)

Register online or in person. Entry fee: $33 (deadline is September 14); $40 on the day of the event (if spaces are available). Space is limited.

For more information, call 949.644.3151, or visit www.newportbeachca.gov/surfcamps.

Save the Date: 24th Annual Balboa Island Holiday Home Walking Tour scheduled for December 11

Mark your calendars for the 24th Annual Balboa Island Holiday Home Walking Tour scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 11 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Courtesy of Balboa Island Holiday Home Walking Tour

A charming home on Balboa Island that was decorated for a previous Holiday Home Walking Tour

Kick off your holiday season on Balboa Island on the second Sunday of December, while touring eight holiday decorated homes.

Sponsored by the Balboa Island Improvement Association, tickets are $40 and will go on sale Tuesday, Nov. 1. Look out for more information to follow.

If you are interested in being a Home Tour sponsor, visit www.balboaislandnb.org, or contact Gail Vasterling at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

OC Chapter of Childhelp to hold “The Love Boat” fall gala

The Orange County Chapter of Childhelp is holding “The Love Boat” fall gala on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 6-10 p.m. at Balboa Bay Resort. 

Event Chairs Jacquie Casey and Gina Van Ocker and the committee will be inspired by the TV series The Love Boat while transforming the main ballroom and patio. It will be an evening to remember with cocktails, dinner and dancing to live music by King Salmon and The Funk Yard Horns. There will silent and live auctions and casino-style gambling, all to raise money toward stopping child abuse and neglect and supporting the children under Childhelp’s care. Bidding is automated so have your smartphone charged. Title Sponsors are Jacquie and Michael Casey.

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Photo by Steve Purcell Photography

The gala will honor John O’Hurley, long-time Childhelp Celebrity Ambassador

The night will honor John O’Hurley – actor, singer and longtime Childhelp Celebrity Ambassador – with the Benevolent Heart Award. He is best known for his work on Seinfeld and Sponge Bob Square Pants, but holds a very special place in their hearts for all his commitment to Childhelp.

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Courtesy of OC Chapter of Childhelp

Casino-style gambling highlights the evening’s festivities

For event and ticket information, visit www.bidpal.net/childhelpocfallgala2022.

Susan Earlabaugh will be taking reservations at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Balboa Bay Resort is located at 1221 W. Coast Highway, Newport Beach.

Cruising home at sunset 

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Photo by Kevin Pellon (Instagram @socalsnapz)

The “Catallac” catches the sunset coming home to Corona del Mar

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