Fair Game
By TOM JOHNSON
It’s election time and the attacks are on
You can tell we’ve entered campaign season for the November election. Personally, I’m not big on the slanderous attacks on opponents from one candidate to the other. Unfortunately, that’s too often now become the norm. Me, I’d rather hear what they’re going to do for me, rather than hearing them just rip someone else.
But, from the looks of things, character attacks certainly appear to be the case in the early battle for the 48th Congressional seat.
For example, incumbent Harley Rouda claims that Michelle Steel is “Orange County’s most corrupt politician” in awarding one of the General Aviation contracts to a “donor.”
Or, Michelle Steel’s counterattack on Rouda calling him “sickening for his politicization of the pandemic,” or his attendance at “racist frat parties.”
Former Newport Beach Mayor and current councilmember Diane Dixon, in her race for the 74th Assembly seat, attacks her opponent, Cottie Petrie-Norris, for voting on a bill that “ended young careers and destroyed the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of hard-working independent Californians.”
It got me wondering, did Cottie really wake up that morning thinking, “How can I screw over the greatest number of Californians in one fell swoop?”
Hardly, but get used to it.
We have nearly three months ahead of us with some very hotly contested races. Certainly the 48th Congressional is big since Dana Rohrabacher lost to Rouda two years ago. This year you figure the Republicans are coming hard after Rouda, not only to get that seat back, but also for the fact that Michelle is the wife of Republican National Committee member Shawn Steelzone. His mere presence brings a lot of money and attention to this race.
The Petrie-Norris/Dixon matchup is also hotly contested. Petrie-Norris beat Matthew Harper to take away one of the few Republican seats still heading to Sacramento. Dixon has an uphill task, fighting the stigma in which no Newport Beach City Council person has ever gone on to be elected to a higher office. Sure, she joins a list of a number of others who have tried, all to no avail.
Here in the City, we have four residents vying for two Council seats and seven locals battling it out for two school seats representing Newport Beach on the Newport-Mesa Unified School District board.
Incidentally, the first debate has been scheduled for City Council by the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce. The Candidates Forum will take place via Zoom on Thursday, August 20 at 9 a.m.
Lucy Dunn, CEO of the Orange County Business Council, will moderate the panel.
Attendees are required to register here.
• • •
As you might expect, the coronavirus pandemic has not been kind recently to restaurants. A forced restaurant closure in March, followed by a hopeful re-opening and then another closure in the months following crushed many pocketbooks. The latest casualties are Provenance and The Counter.
Provenance, an upscale restaurant in Eastbluff, was owned by chef Cathy Pavlos. She closed her doors last Sunday after operating the place dating back to 2014.
The Counter, located in the Westcliff Shopping Center, initially closed for coronavirus, and just never re-opened. The place has now been cleared out and for lease signs now fill the windows. So much for a good hamburger.
Those are just two of the struggles happening everywhere. So what’s Newport Beach doing about it? In speaking with marketing guru Doug McClain, associated with both Visit Newport Beach and the Newport Beach Restaurant Association, they’re planning a big September “Restaurant Month.”
For 30 days, residents will be encouraged to dine out and support our many local eateries. Doug told me there will be contests and prizes available all month long in an effort to get people dining out. Look for details in Stu News in the coming days, and then clear out your calendars to make time to support our restaurants. More than ever, they need it.
• • •
Do you like my new mask? I’m thrilled with it and why not, it’s from one of my favorite places, Hoag Hospital. Well, to be fair, it’s actually from Hoag’s Hospital Foundation, courtesy of Cara Uisprapassorn, the Executive Director of Donor Experience.
If you’re not friends with Hoag, you might want to be, especially during these trying times. Of course, you’re talking to someone whose life has been saved there more than once.
Thanks Cara, I’ll wear it proudly.
This one replaces the previous orange one with a smile worn in the last few issues, sent to me by Deanne Thompson at John Wayne Airport.
Take Five: Meet New NMUSD Superintendent Dr. Russell Lee-Sung
By AMY SENK
When the Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) superintendent retired at the end of July, board members named Russell Lee-Sung as interim superintendent, and then in a 6-1 vote not long after, made him superintendent through June 2022. The vote was not without controversy – some said there should have been a national search, or a one-year contract. Board members, however, said he was well vetted, interviewed and would provide the district with stability during uncertain times. According to a district news release, Lee-Sung has 34 years’ experience in education and has been with the district since 2015. He has served as assistant superintendent, chief human resources officer, assistant superintendent, chief academic officer and, as of 2017, deputy superintendent, most recently guiding the district through COVID-19. I caught up with him to learn more.
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Courtesy of NMUSD
NMUSD Superintendent Dr. Russell Lee-Sung
Q: What have been the biggest challenges in the month or so since you’ve taken over the superintendent’s position?
A: The biggest challenge has been making sure we remain focused on creating and implementing a plan to reopen our schools, while keeping our employees both physically and mentally safe. With the rules and guidance changing this has been particularly difficult.
Q: How much impact did protests and petitions have in the decision to not go forward with the 4x4 plan?
A: It is important that we listen to all feedback, on any issue, regardless of what form it comes to us such as emails, letters, individual meetings, advisory meetings or petitions. On this issue, we probably would have reached the same decision with or without the protest since we had received feedback, both positive and negative, from a variety of sources. The 4x4 Model at our secondary schools has many benefits intended to reduce stress on students, allow for deeper learning for each course, and allow teachers to provide greater attention to fewer students per semester. There were clearly wide differences of opinions on the features and challenges that came with this model. Ultimately, our decision to not move forward was done in consultation with principals and the feedback received from parents, teachers, counselors and community. As a whole, it was evident that the necessary support for success for this model was not present at all school sites.
Q: What do you think the biggest challenges will be this school year?
A: In this environment, the greatest challenge throughout the year will be to keep everyone physically and mentally safe. This is expected to be a year of continuous adjustment to changing conditions and regulations while educating our students. Building connections and relationships with our students and establishing routines is essential and obviously a challenge when not physically together. I know our teachers and principals are already thinking about the best methods to get to know their students and to create structure and routine. In addition, adjusting what and how we teach in a remote setting or switching to a cohort of half of our students at a time will also be a significant challenge. With all of these challenges our staff is preparing to provide the highest quality instructional program and mental health support, regardless of the instructional model we are in throughout the year.
Q: When you aren’t working, how do you relax? What are your hobbies and pastimes?
A: I enjoy playing the piano, reading a variety of non-fiction books and follow professional sports such as the Dodgers (sorry Angels fans) and Lakers. As much as possible, I also spend time with my two adult sons to stay connected with them and their careers.
Q: What is a typical day like for a superintendent in this crazy time of COVID?
A: It is typical for superintendents and other leaders to work long days. However, during this crisis the long days, ranging from 12 to 17 hours, have been the norm as well as many hours each weekend. This is not exclusive to the superintendent during this time. Many NMUSD leaders and employees have been working long hours and days to keep up with the demand. Zoom has been the primary source of our communication and collaboration around problem-solving and decision-making. We all do our part to support each other and to keep each other going day to day. As superintendent, I have been trying to do my best to keep our trustees and public up to date and to listen to and seek feedback so we can constantly adjust, prepare and continue to lead the district.
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Amy Senk is a longtime resident of Corona del Mar and a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.
Supervisors name August 24 “Kobe Bryant Day”
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Courtesy of Bryant Facebook Page
Kobe Bryant
The Orange County Supervisors, led by Board Chair Michelle Steel, voted earlier this week to officially make August 24 “Kobe Bryant Day.”
Bryant’s birthday is August 23 and 24 is significant because that was one of two numbers (also 8) that he wore throughout his career.
A Newport Beach resident, Bryant died January 26, 2020 in a helicopter crash along with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others on his way to a youth basketball tournament in Calabasas.
Steel said in her comments, “Bryant was a treasured member of our community” and “inspired so many men and women to pursue their dreams and never give up.”
In addition to the two Bryants, others who were killed in the crash included Payton Chester, Sarah Chester, Alyssa Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, John Altobelli, Christina Mauser, and the helicopter’s pilot, Ara Zobayan.
The Altobellis and Chesters were also from Newport Beach and Mauser coached at Harbor Day.
Planning Commission to consider changing CdM 76 station to 7-11
The Newport Planning Commission will consider an application to replace the existing 76 (Gas) Station building with a convenience market during a public hearing at its Thursday, Aug. 20 meeting.
The applicant is also requesting the ability to serve alcohol.
Plans have the proposed convenience market located in about the same location as the existing service building. The existing pumps, canopy and driveway access to the site would remain unchanged.
According to the application, while the applicant has been considering the 7-11 brand, the owner has not yet decided one way or the other.
However, the applicant is hoping to receive a favorable decision from the Planning Commission following the Public Hearing.
The hearing will start shortly after 6:30 p.m. The agenda and the staff report for the project will be available this afternoon on the City’s website here.
Wake Up! Newport to hold 2020 Newport Beach City Council Candidates Forum
The Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce is presenting a special 2020 Newport Beach City Council Candidates Forum at Wake Up! Newport on Thursday, Aug. 20 at 9 a.m.
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Photos courtesy of NB Chamber of Commerce
Lucy Dunn, CEO, Orange County Business Council is the moderator
Meet the candidates representing Districts 2, 5 and 7 via a webinar on Zoom. The program will be moderated by Lucy Dunn, CEO, Orange County Business Council.
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Representing District 2 – Brad Avery and Nancy Scarbrough
Be an educated voter! Come hear directly from the Newport Beach City Council Candidates running for office. Following an interactive panel format, the event will give you a first-hand look at their positions and experiences on various important topical issues.
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Representing District 5 (L-R) Noah Blom and Jeff Herdman
The event is free to the public, but reservations are required. To join the webinar, go here. When you receive a confirmation, you will be directed to an email where you can submit questions.
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Representing District 7 unopposed – Will O’Neill
The event is sponsored by First Republic Bank.
COVID-19: 20 new deaths reported in OC today, 683 new cases
Sadly, OC Health Care Agency reports that 789 people have died due to COVID-19 in Orange County, including 20 new deaths received today. There have been 14 deaths of Newport Beach residents.
The county reports that there have been 934 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Newport Beach to date, an increase of four cases today, a per capita rate of 10.713 cases per thousand residents.
The county reports that there have been 42,854 cumulative cases countywide to date, an increase of 683 cases today.
The county reports that 31 percent of ICU beds and 56 percent of ventilators are currently available countywide.
The county reports that 436 individuals are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 (includes ICU); 152 are in ICU.
The county estimates 33,697 “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.
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Courtesy of OC Health Care Agency
Orange County COVID-19 case data as of August 14, as reported by the County; click here to visit page that is updated daily
Newport Beach tourism is showing some signs of life
By GARY SHERWIN
While most parts of the country are sweating out the dog days of summer, July and August are usually high season in Newport Beach with glorious days spent on the harbor and lazy days on the beach. It’s the time of year that makes our inflated real estate prices almost justifiable.
It is also our peak visitor season with hotels and home rentals nearly full and rates the highest. Of course, this annus horriblis (horrible year) is vastly different.
So where do we stand five months into the pandemic with our hospitality economy? Like everything these days, there is some good and bad news out there.
Since I am an optimist, here’s the positive stuff. People are visiting Newport Beach and they are spending. Properties like Lido House with its 130 rooms are doing strong business. Overall weekend summer business is also showing life and the average daily rate, a barometer of hotel health, is at $290 a night, about 15 percent lower than last year.
Restaurants with outdoor patios are doing well on the weekends as well, although overall volume is down with indoor dining off limits for now.
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Courtesy of Visit Newport Beach
Gary Sherwin
Recreational vehicle travel is especially popular this year and the Newport Dunes is reporting high occupancy for their pads. Those pads aren’t inexpensive either and sometimes cost more than a hotel room.
Nationwide, California continues to hold wide appeal as a safe and healthy destination to visit. The top destinations people have said they want to visit in the next six months include Florida, Las Vegas, Hawaii, followed by the Golden State.
On the flip side, citywide hotel occupancy is currently averaging about 40 percent a week when we are usually hitting about 85 percent this time a year. There are few, if any, international guests and most business is regional drive in although our office is getting calls from around the country about visiting.
Two hotels, the Renaissance Newport Beach and Fashion Island Hotel, remain closed and several of the other hotels are not offering all their rooms for occupancy to promote social distancing. Safety is still a top concern.
To help make the most of the summer season, Visit Newport Beach has embarked on a significant Southern California digital marketing campaign that will run through the end of September with the theme line: “Newport Beach: A Summer Tradition.” Nostalgia goes down well in a pandemic.
Newport Beach started seeing an upward trend in June, but those numbers decreased in July as the virus spread grew and beaches were closed during July 4th. The monthlong upward trend in infection rates slowed business considerably but has since rebounded in August. Fortunately, this weekend is promising hot temperatures which is always good for tourism.
In the meantime, hotels are getting creative to generate revenue. Pelican Hill, the Balboa Bay Resort and others are capitalizing on all the weddings that have been canceled by offering “Elopement Packages” that allow an intimate group of people to gather and celebrate a couple’s nuptials. Demand has been brisk. In fact, my daughter was one of those brides last week and it created a wonderful memory for all of us.
In this pandemic world we now live in, the thing that is often forgotten is that even thinking about a vacation or a special event, much less experiencing one, brings psychological lift for people. A recent study by Destination Analysts indicates that 6 in 10 people believe planning a trip in the next six months would give them happiness.
So just getting people to even think about planning a trip here is a good thing. While tourism business is slow right now, even encouraging people to dream about traveling in the future is worthwhile. Most people agree that their psychological health needs to be prioritized and that includes stress relief and relaxation by the anticipation of going somewhere.
Because, at the end of the day, tourism is all about creating magic moments and that’s what we excel at in Newport Beach. No virus can destroy that.
Gary Sherwin is President & CEO of Visit Newport Beach and Newport Beach and Company.
Sunset surf sessions
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Photo by Stan Sievers (Instagram @stansievers)
Surfer Parker Cohn enjoys the surf at dusk in our beautiful city
Clay Lacy Aviation and ACI Jet led general aviation lease awardees at JWA
The Orange County Board of Supervisors approved three companies Tuesday, August 11, to provide services for general aviation services at John Wayne Airport.
The companies selected are Clay Lacy Aviation, ACI Jet and Jay’s Aircraft Maintenance, all of which will now move ahead to negotiate leases with JWA officials, which then will go to the supervisors for final approval.
Three different parcels were awarded. Clay Lacy Aviation received the Northwest Parcel, ACI Jet the Northeast and Jay’s Aircraft Maintenance the Southwest.
Clay Lacy and ACI are defined as Full Service FBOs and will provide a full-complement of services including fuel, tie downs, maintenance, aircraft hangars, offices and other ground handling services.
Additionally they both offer a variety of other services including charters, avionics repairs and upgrades, and parts and warranty sales and service.
All three companies receive 35-year leases.
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Courtesy of JWA
John Wayne Airport is the home base for approximately 500 private general aviation aircraft
Some of the more controversial issues brought up during the process have included hours of flight operations, eventual buildout of hangar facilities and the possibility of establishing customs facilities.
General aviation services do not fall under the agreements previously negotiated that established curfews for commercial aircraft, leaving open for concern their potential hours of operation.
Additionally, critics against the process also have been concerned about future hangar buildouts being more targeted to larger jet facilities, rather than smaller private plane usage and smaller commercial services skirting the main terminal.
Supervisor Chair Michelle Steel has assured concerned Newport Beach leaders that provisions will be included during the negotiating stages protecting hours of operation, noise levels, hangar buildout and excluding facilities that would include customs facilities for international general aviation flights. However, that all remains to be seen. During discussions this week, while Steel pushed for those approvals, she received pushback from supervisors Andrew Do and Lisa Bartlett.
Scott Cutshall, senior vice president of business operations for Clay Lacy Aviation said, “Our goal was to bring our services to the airport, so we are delighted to be selected. We are also in full support of the city and community goal to include language in the leases that ensures the Steel Amendment throughout the term of the lease to protect space for small piston general aviation.”
Currently, JWA is the home base for approximately 500 private general aviation aircraft. General aviation accounts for a majority of JWA’s total aircraft operations, takeoffs and landings, representing 67 percent of Airport operations.
Atlantic Aviation, which also competed for one of the two full-service FBO locations, was unsuccessful in their attempt, despite scoring the highest in the county during the application process.
Former NB Councilmember Richard “Dick” Nichols passes
Former Newport Beach City Councilmember Richard “Dick” Nichols passed away Friday, August 7. He was 80 years old.
Nichols was elected to the Council in November 2002 to represent District 6 as a supporter of the Greenlight initiative, a growth-control measure that Newport Beach voters passed in 2000. However, his tenure quickly became marked with controversy after making repeated racially insensitive comments in 2003.
Several examples were, “What I have a problem with is illegal aliens with special rights demanding special treatment,” and implying that “Mexicans improperly cause accidents and then collect money from the victims.”
Later, while the Council was discussing a potential expansion of the grassy area at Corona del Mar State Beach, Nichols said, “With grass we usually get Mexicans coming in there early in the morning and they claim it as theirs, and it becomes their personal, private grounds all day.”
In the days following that comment, the remaining six councilmembers attempted to force Nichols to resign in front of a standing room only audience, split between supporters and opponents. The effort was unsuccessful, but Nichols was publicly rebuked.
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Courtesy City of Newport Beach
Richard “Dick” Nichols
Steve Bromberg, who served as mayor at the time, challenged Nichols for what he saw as a “pattern of racially derogatory speech.”
In 2006, when Nichols was seeking a second term, the Orange County Republican Party central planning committee voted overwhelmingly to not endorse him. He subsequently lost his re-election bid.
In the years following, he was a member of the Republican Party Orange County Central Committee.
He was a long-time small business owner. His education included a B.S. in Science Engineering, and a M.S. & Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Northwestern University, where he proudly claimed to have played football under coaching legend Ara Parseghian.
His arrangements are under the care of Pacific View Memorial Park and Mortuary. No public services are scheduled at this time.
Police Files
Suspect repeatedly enters garage and residence while victims sleep
While victims were sleeping, a residential burglary took place in the Santa Ana Heights community. The incident occurred in the 1600 block of Indus Street sometime between 1-1:45 a.m. on Monday, August 10.
According to a police report from the Newport Beach Police Department, an unknown male suspect entered the open garage and went through cabinets and the victim’s vehicle that was parked in the garage. The suspect left the garage and returned multiple times, even once entering the residence through an unlocked garage pedestrian door and taking some of the victim’s property.
The suspect returned one more time, opened the pedestrian door again, before shutting it immediately and fleeing the scene.
The victim awoke after hearing the door open and shut the last time, and immediately called police.
The suspect made off with cell phones, wallets, U.S. currency, a bag and gift cards.
He was described as a male white or Hispanic in his 20s, approximately 5’8”-5’9”, around 160 lbs., dark hair, wearing a green sweatshirt, red shorts and a dark colored hat. He carried two backpacks on his back.
Anyone with any information is urged to contact the Newport Beach Police Department.
Returning home from weekend trip, victim finds ransacked room
A residential burglary occurred in the 2200 block of W. Oceanfront, near the Newport Pier, sometime between 8 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, and 1:25 a.m. on Monday, August 10.
When the victim returned from a weekend trip, he found his bedroom ransacked and a firearm missing. The bedroom window was also discovered open, which is not how the victim said he left it.
It is unknown how the suspect entered the room, but they may have exited through the window.
No suspect information is available at this time.
Fire Files
NBFD travels to support outlying fires
The Newport Beach Fire Department has deployed one fire engine with four personnel to the Lake Fire in the Los Angeles Castaic area. They left Newport Beach Wednesday evening at 6 p.m., joining neighboring Orange County agencies.
Their first night there they worked into the early morning hours of Thursday and followed up with a 12-hour assignment yesterday, without much rest.
Additionally, all but one of the NBFD personnel and resources have returned from the Apple Fire in Riverside County. Initially, NBFD sent two engines and eight personnel, two Battalion Chiefs and two additional personnel as overhead support.
One Fire Captain remains committed to the Apple Fire as a Fireline Paramedic.
Despite pandemic concerns, Junior Guards completes healthy summer program
Yesterday marked the completion of the 2020 Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard program. One group (A) graduated last week, with three remaining (B, C, D) graduating yesterday at both Marina Park and the Balboa Pier.
According to Fire Chief Jeff Boyles, “The program ended up being very successful. Participants and instructors remained healthy. I am very proud of everyone involved.”
What’s on the Docket
Cerissa Laura Riley & Grant William Robicheaux – Thursday, August 20 at 8:30 a.m. (Harbor Court 7)
Further proceedings
–In September 2009, Jane Doe 1, who was in her mid-20s, met Robicheaux at a bar in Newport Beach and proceeded to go on a few dates. On September 7, 2009, Robicheaux is accused of forcibly raping the victim at his residence after she told him she did not want to have sex. Jane Doe 1 was aware the defendant possessed weapons and was scared. Jane Doe 1 reported the alleged assault to OCDA after OCDA announced law enforcement was seeking potential additional victims.
–On March 14, 2015, Robicheaux and Riley are accused of raping Jane Doe 2, who was in her mid-20s, while she was prevented from resisting due to intoxicating and controlled substances and they should have reasonably known of her condition. Jane Doe 2 reported the alleged assault to OCDA after OCDA announced law enforcement was seeking potential additional victims.
–Jane Doe 3 is an amendment of initial charges filed September 11, 2018. In April 2016, Robicheaux and Riley are accused of meeting Jane Doe 3 who was in her early 30s, at a restaurant in Newport Beach. On April 10, 2016, Robicheaux and Riley are accused of inviting the victim to a party in Newport Beach and supplying multiple drugs to the victim until she was highly intoxicated. The defendants are accused of then kidnapping Jane Doe 3 with intent to commit rape by bringing her to their home and carrying her upstairs to commit the sex acts. Robicheaux and Riley are further accused of raping and orally copulating the victim while she was prevented from resisting due to intoxicating and controlled substances and they should have reasonably known of her condition. Jane Doe 3 contacted the Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD) the next day and underwent a forensic exam, which tested positive for multiple controlled substances.
–Jane Doe 4 is an amendment of initial charges filed September 11, 2018. On October 2, 2016, Robicheaux and Riley are accused of drinking alcohol with Jane Doe 4, who was in her mid-20s, at a bar in Newport Beach until the victim was highly intoxicated. The defendants are accused of kidnapping the victim with intent to commit a sexual offense by taking Jane Doe 4 to their home. Jane Doe 4 reportedly woke to Robicheaux attempting to sexually assault her with intent to commit rape and screamed for help until a neighbor called NBPD, who responded to the scene and investigated this case.
–On October 29, 2016, Jane Doe 5, who was in her mid-30s, met Robicheaux and Riley at a Halloween party in Newport Beach through a mutual acquaintance and are accused of placing GHB in the victim’s drink while she was at the defendants’ residence. The defendants are further accused of sexually assaulting and raping the victim in their bedroom while she was prevented from resisting due to intoxicating and controlled substances. Jane Doe 5 awoke during the alleged assault. Jane Doe 5 reported the alleged assault to OCDA after OCDA announced law enforcement was seeking potential additional victims.
–On April 16, 2017, Jane Doe 6, who was in her early 20s, met Robicheaux on a popular dating app and went on a date at a restaurant in Newport Beach. Riley is accused of showing up during the date and pretending to be Robicheaux’s friend, not a romantic interest. Jane Doe 6 and the defendants went to another bar where the defendants are accused of supplying intoxicating substances to the victim until she was highly intoxicated. Robicheaux and Riley are then accused of kidnapping Jane Doe 6 with intent to commit rape by bringing the victim to their home in this condition without her consent. The victim awoke in the defendants’ home where Riley and Robicheaux are accused of sexually assaulting her on the bed. Jane Doe 6 was eventually able to run to the bathroom where she locked herself for the night until she was able to leave the next morning. Jane Doe 6 reported the alleged assault to OCDA after OCDA announced law enforcement was seeking potential additional victims.
–Jane Doe 7, who was in her early 20s, met Robicheaux and Riley at a Fourth of July party in 2017 while the victim was out with a friend. On July 8, 2017, the victim went with the defendants to a party on a boat in Newport Beach and consumed multiple alcoholic beverages. The defendants are accused of inviting Jane Doe 7 to Robicheaux’s residence. When the intoxicated victim laid down to sleep, Robicheaux is accused of raping her while reasonably knowing of the victim’s inability to resist. Jane Doe 7 reported the alleged assault to OCDA after OCDA announced law enforcement was seeking potential additional victims.
During an investigation on Jan. 9, 2018, Robicheaux and Riley are accused of possessing large quantities of illegal drugs for purposes of sale, which were recovered in their residence (psilocybin mushrooms, MDA, cocaine, and GHB). Robicheaux is also accused of possessing two illegal, unregistered assault rifles, four other firearms, and several large capacity magazines.
NBPD submitted the case to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office for review on September 6, 2018. The case was filed on September 11, 2018, and NBPD arrested the defendants at their residence on September 12, 2018.
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.
Letters to the Editor
Isn’t it time to give those that aren’t a part of a team a shot at mayor?
I enjoyed Tom Johnson’s Fair Game column on August 11 but have a different take on two points.
First, regardless of whether Will O’Neill has or hasn’t done a good job as mayor, the fact that he’s running unopposed is not good news for our city. Competitive elections are healthy for democracy and encourage voter participation. It’s better to have choices on the ballot.
Why will we have so few options on city council races this November? For one thing it’s incredibly expensive to run in Newport Beach as incumbents can build up war chests for four years between elections. And residents who might consider throwing their hat in the ring know that certain candidates are backed by some nasty actors who fight dirty to get their people elected. We saw this in 2014, 2016 and 2018, and I suspect we’ll see it again this year. Running for council should be a chance to serve the community, not a terrifying experience. Regular residents and local businesses lose when dirty politics win. But that’s where we are.
Second, the fact that O’Neill, Kevin Muldoon and Duffy Duffield have endorsed Jeff Herdman’s opponent before the first debate isn’t just notable, it’s alarming. As Tom noted in his column, Herdman ran on his own against a slate of candidates in 2016 (“Team Newport” 2.0: O’Neill with Brad Avery and Lee Lowery). Duffy and Muldoon were part of the first Team Newport slate elected in 2014.
For two years, until Joy Brenner was elected, Herdman was the only council member not associated with a slate. He has indeed been a strong and independent voice, on airport issues and many others. He works on city business seven days a week, is effective and always available for residents. What reason could his colleagues have for endorsing an opponent they presumably don’t know much about?
There are several possibilities, all of them political. Herdman’s willingness to think for himself and err on the side of transparency most likely has something to do with it. But it could also be about retaining control of the mayor and mayor pro tem seats, which are supposed to rotate, but have been jealously guarded by Team Newport since they were swept to power in 2014. These titles obviously give a boost to those who are running for higher office, which two Team Newport members are currently doing. We can probably assume that this game of musical chairs will continue if the same team, or some other iteration of it, keeps a majority on the council.
Whatever the election results in November, I hope four people on the council will agree that the long-term residents who are not part of any team and not running for higher office should have a chance to serve their city as mayor and mayor pro tem.
Jennifer McDonald
Newport Beach
Interviews for council members start now
Running for City Council should be compared to being interviewed for a new job, an occupation that should be taken seriously. One would expect that these representatives would have a proven track record and would continue to share these results after four years.
In Newport Beach, every resident can cast their vote across the board for an incumbent or a new candidate in our City. Together, we hold hands along our coastal gem to make certain that we make a better path for our children, move forward with smart and responsible growth, while maintaining the charm of our town.
Newport Heights and Cliff Haven are very unique areas in which 4,300 children travel to and from three schools: Newport Heights Elementary, Horace Ensign and Newport Harbor. The models of these dynamics are continuously changing with these schools during COVID; but nonetheless, we have an abundance of children, junior guards and families traveling throughout our neighborhoods and yet, safety still remains a major issue in our neighborhoods.
In my professional years, if I did not perform in four months, let alone four years, I would have been terminated and replaced by someone who could obtain those desired results.
I have interviewed the new candidate and I will be hiring Nancy Scarbrough for District 2 to represent me in 2020.
As for the incumbent, a nice guy, but you know what they say about nice guys. We must begin to put people before politics.
I encourage every citizen in Newport Beach to be an educated voter and attend the “Meet the Candidate Forum” on August 20 at 9 a.m. This meeting will be moderated by CEO Lucy Dunn of the Orange County Business Council. This is free and can also be attended via Zoom at www.newportbeach.com/events/2020-newport-beach-city-council-candidates-forum/
Peggy V. Palmer
Newport Beach
November propositions will impact real estate, be knowledgeable
This November 3rd, you will be asked to vote for three different propositions that will affect real estate, specifically, property taxes and rent control. We’ve seen variations of these propositions before and regardless of the outcome this November, we’re likely to continue to see more in the foreseeable future.
Proposition 15 relates to commercial and industrial real estate and how property taxes are computed. Proposition 19 takes the current Prop 60 and 90 to a new level regarding the ability of homeowners to transfer their current property tax rate to a new home. And Proposition 21 addresses rent control. Let’s take a look at each.
Proposition 15: A ‘Yes’ vote would change the current taxation rate on commercial and industrial buildings from the current Prop 13 rules which establishes property taxes based on the property sales price. The new valuation would be based on the property’s current market value. Like residential property, Prop 13 limits the commercial property taxation to 1 percent of the sales price with an annual adjustment limit of 2 percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is less. A change from the purchase price to market value would be phased in beginning in fiscal year 2022-2023. Properties such as retail centers, whose occupants are 50 percent small business would be taxed based on market value beginning in fiscal year 2025-2026. There are a couple of exceptions to Prop 15, including properties whose owners have $3 million or less in holdings in California – these properties would continue to be taxed at the purchase price. You can imagine the impact of a new “market value taxation” on commercial property owners. It’s easy to say, “Well, they can afford it”, not necessarily and not a fair argument. I suspect that there will be a fight determining how often commercial and industrial buildings get reassessed and assessment valuation challenges will keep county assessors extraordinarily busy. I vote ‘No’.
Proposition 19: A ‘Yes’ vote on 19 will bring some much-needed relief, in my opinion, to our shortage of residential real estate inventory. You may recall that Prop 60 and Prop 90 were voted into law in 1986 and 1988 respectively. Prop 60 allowed homeowners who are at least 55 years of age to take their current property tax rate to a new purchase within the same county provided that the next home was of equal or lesser value. Both properties are required to be a primary residence. Prop 90 allowed Californians to transfer their property tax base between different California counties but, unfortunately, each county could opt out. Currently, only 10 counties allow such a transfer. Additionally, utilizing this tax advantage is a one-time deal. Proposition 19 would make the following changes: 1) The newly acquired property can be of any value (with a slight adjustment in taxes if the property is of higher value), 2) Eligible homeowners can transfer their property taxes to ANY county in California, 3) Eligible homeowners now also include persons with severe disabilities and victims displaced by a natural disaster, and 4) This tax provision can be used up to three times (except the natural disaster scenario). The number of folks taking advantage of these new rules would greatly increase real estate movement and certainly help with our continuing shortage of available homes for sale. This ballot measure is also gaining a lot of traction due to revenues and savings being directed to fire protection services. I vote ‘Yes’.
Proposition 21: A ‘Yes’ vote would allow local governments to implement rent controls. Rent control is always a hot topic. I get it as I am on both sides of the argument as a real estate practitioner and a landlord. Basically, this measure would replace the Costa-Hawkins Act, which was passed in 1995, limiting or eliminating government involvement. Prop 21 will allow local governments to adapt rent control measures (rent increase caps) on housing units, except on 1) Housing that was first occupied within the last 15 years and 2) Units owned by natural persons who own no more than two housing units with separate titles, such as single family houses, condos and some duplexes. Again, I get both sides of this argument but in the end, I prefer to let the market determine what is fair. I vote ‘No’.
Although I’ve given my inclination regarding how I’m voting on these propositions, this article is not intended to tell you how to vote. Please take the time to read more about these three propositions that will be on your ballot November 3rd. There are more details to each that are not discussed here. Another critical factor when determining how to vote on these propositions is to examine who, or what, revenues are meant to support. Most importantly, get out and vote!
Troy Davis
The Agency Realty
Newport Beach
Block voting undermines process
How voting consistently as a team or a bloc in a non-partisan Council can undermine democracy. (Subtitle: Why Costa Mesa has 12 “new” candidates running for City Council, while Newport Beach has only 2).
–If Council members rely on others to make their decisions, constituents are not being served by independent thinkers (thus independent voters).
–As a result, voting as a bloc can imply that your Council member is putting the opinion of other members above the consensus of his/her constituents.
–Voting as a bloc or team also suggests that there might be some outside influences putting pressure on the team to vote a certain way.
–A community is less likely to get quality people to run for office because people can feel pressure running against the member of a team and because the cost becomes prohibitive.
–Members of a bloc do not always perform at an optimum level because they know they will be carried by their team members.
–A bloc is only as strong as its weakest link.
–The strongest member of a bloc can consistently dominate other members.
–A team that enjoys being the dominant force in a Council will usually resist change because they fear that new ideas and progress might weaken their power.
–Blocs can give members such a sense of security and power, that they can turn non-partisan issues into partisan ones.
–Blocs or team endorsements of a candidate especially in “at large” elections can make elections less democratic.
Lynn Lorenz
Newport Beach
Local rolling in U.S. Amateur golf championship
Newport Beach’s Stewart Hagestad, who plays out of Big Canyon Country Club, has advanced to the quarterfinals of the United States Amateur Championships taking place this week at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon.
Yesterday, Hagestad beat Harrison Ott, from Brookfield, Wis., 4 & 3 in the Round of 16. He got off to a fast start, winning four of the first six holes. Then, after losing the 9th and 11th holes, Hagestad won the 12th and the 14th, before closing off the match at 15.
Earlier rounds had Hagestad beating Spencer Tibbits of Vancouver, Wash., 3 & 1 in the Round of 32 and beating Argentinian Abel Gallegos in the Round of 64, 1 up. In that match, Gallegos took a 1 up lead into the 17th hole, before Hagestad came back birdieing the 17th and 18th holes to win the match.
In today’s Quarterfinals, Hagestad plays Tyler Strafaci of Davie, Fla. Strafaci won perhaps the most controversial match of the Championship yesterday, when, with the match tied on the 18th hole, his opponent’s caddy was penalized with loss of hole for “testing the sand” in a fairway bunker to cost his player the match.
Strafaci is a highly ranked player out of Georgia Tech and earlier this summer captured the North & South Amateur.
The tournament kicked off earlier in the week with two rounds of medal play. Hagestad shot rounds of 73-66 to finish tied for 11th, becoming one of 64 players to advance to match play.
Hagestad qualified for this year’s Amateur through earning multiple exemptions as a playing member of the 2017 and 2019 Walker Cup, as the eighth-ranked golfer in the Men’s World Amateur Golf Rankings, as a winner/runner-up/quarterfinalist from the U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship (2016 Champion and 2019 quarterfinalist), as a 2019 U.S. Open Championship qualifier and for making the round of 64 at the 2019 U.S. Amateur Championship.
Summer living
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Photo by Kevin Pellon (Instagram @socalsnapz)
These seals have the right idea for a relaxing night in Newport Beach
On the Harbor: Experience our bay on a Duffy
By LEN BOSE
This week, I spent a lot of time shuttling Duffy electric boats to and from the shipyard for prospective buyers to complete their inspection process before they purchase a boat. The Duffy market has exploded this year with the demand reaching new heights. From what I am hearing, this is true across the board in the marine boating market. Similarities are also heard from the recreational vehicles market. I am a superstitious man so the less I say about the increased activity the better.
Let’s just say if you are considering moving to a brand new Duffy and selling the boat you already have, there has never been a better time. I sound like a salesman right, yet it is true. In the meantime, let me take you back to some of my fondest memories aboard an electric boat.
While on the harbor, during these warm summer days, I thought back to all the good times I have had while cruising the harbor.
As a college student, I recalled all the Friday nights we found a place to park the boat in the Rhine Channel, starting our night at Snug Harbor, and working our way down the channel to Woody’s Wharf.
Quite often, we would meet some new friends and introduce them to the harbor by returning to the Duffy and continuing to cruise down the peninsula, frequently stopping by the yacht clubs and other favorite restaurants to use their facilities and partake in the local nightlife.
Favorite stops along the route included the Studio Cafe, which we referred to as the “Who Do You Know.” Then we stopped off at Dillman’s, Class of ‘47, and the Balboa Saloon before returning to the boat, many times with new crew members.
On numerous occasions, many of our new crew had never experienced the harbor aboard a Duffy.
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Photo by Jennifer Bose
Len Bose aboard a Duffy electric boat
As proper gentlemen and yachtsmen, we could not comprehend how anyone could miss out on experiencing our harbor at night, with the moon, stars and lights reflecting off the rippling water. In the late summer months, during a red tide, the bright, glowing bioluminescence in the water was more entertaining than the laserium.
Staying on course, we would then cruise down to the east end of the harbor and visit the two Corona del Mar yacht clubs before stopping on Balboa Island at the Village Inn. Many times, our visits were short, because it was more fun to be on the harbor rather than in a crowded restaurant.
Other frequent stops were the lighthouse beach on Harbor Island, the different water slides around the harbor, or a climb up on one of the fiberglass whales in Newport Dunes. If the water was still warm and the tide high, there was the occasional thought of jumping off one of the harbor bridges before returning to our starting waypoint.
On one of these summer nights, there was one crew member who grabbed my complete attention. Our first date was a Duffy cruise, just the two of us, and a stop for dinner at George’s Camelot in Lido Village. While leaving the restaurant, when rounding Z mark and heading under the Lido Isle bridge, I asked if it would be okay to kiss her. Two years later in the same location, where we jumped off a bridge together and had our first kiss, I asked her to marry me.
Now, 20 years later, I and that same crew member, now promoted to the first mate, along with our teenage deck hand, take Duffy harbor cruises together. Our deck hand has heard the story before and is uninterested each time we reminisce about all of our good times together. The stops along the route are less frequent and the nights much shorter. What has not changed is the beauty of our harbor and how my first mate looks at me each time we pass under the Lido bridge.
If you have never taken a Duffy electric boat cruise around our harbor, I highly recommend it. The truly priceless time on the water with your high school friends or your grandchildren will be cherished throughout your lifetime.
There are many places to rent a Duffy for the night – from the Duffy rentals on Pacific Coast Highway, the Irvine Company, Marina Boat Rentals at the Balboa Fun Zone and Windward Sailing Club.
If you are considering a new Duffy, just stop by the Duffy showroom and ask for Matt or Jim. No high-pressure sales from this team; they just want to make sure you enjoy your harbor experience.
Should you wish to look over what the brokerage Duffys have been selling for, please visit my blog site at http://boseyachts.blogspot.com.
Sea ya.
~~~~~~~~
Len Bose is a yachting enthusiast, yacht broker and harbor columnist for Stu News Newport.
THE LOT launches Summer Drive-In Series
THE LOT in Fashion Island kicked off its three-week outdoor summer movie experience on Thursday, Aug. 13 with the Newport Beach Film Festival’s Spotlight and World Premiere of The Life of Endless Summers: The Bruce Brown Story, directed by Dana Brown.
All the films take place in a drive-in format on the upper level of the parking structure located between Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom at Fashion Island (401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach).
Tonight, Friday, Aug. 14, enjoy Transformers: The Last Knight (PG-13) and on Saturday, Aug. 15 and Sunday, Aug. 16 take in The Goonies (PG). Screenings start at approximately 8 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. Each ticket purchased at $60 is valid for one car and all passengers inside. The number of passengers must not exceed the number of safety belts/seats in your vehicle. Also, each ticket comes with a $20 gift card to THE LOT, which can’t be used for the drive-in series. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.
Transformers: The Last Knight synopsis: The key to saving the future lies buried in the secrets of the past and the hidden history of Transformers on Earth. Now, it’s up to the unlikely alliance of inventor Cade Yeager, Bumblebee, an English lord and an Oxford professor to save the world. For tickets and more information, go here.
The Goonies synopsis: The family favorite about a group of young misfits called The Goonies who discover an ancient map and set out on an adventure to find a legendary pirate’s long-lost treasure. For tickets and more information, go here.
Additional movies and showtimes to be announced.
Seaside Gallery & Goods welcomes author
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Courtesy of Seaside Gallery & Goods
Seaside Gallery & Goods is making this summer special with a book signing engagement with author Madeleine Westerhout on Saturday, Aug. 15 from 2-5 p.m. in the Pelican Courtyard. Westerhout’s “Off the Record: My Dream Job at the White House, How I Lost It, and What I Learned” will be available onsite for purchase. This is a free outdoor, socially distanced engagement. Seaside Gallery & Goods is located at 124 Tustin Ave., Newport Beach.
High school athletics can begin Monday with guidelines
Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) will reopen high school athletics beginning this Monday, Aug. 17, under specific guidelines issued by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) for youth sports and school-based athletics.
At this time, state guidelines permit only outdoor activities and require all athletes to maintain social distancing of at least six feet and a stable cohort.
For sports that cannot be conducted with sufficient distancing or cohorting, only conditioning and training is permitted. Any activity that promotes congregating is not permitted at this time (i.e. competitions, events, assemblies).
NMUSD has developed a plan in accordance with the state guidelines along with an approval process that must be followed in order for each athletic team to begin activity. Athletic directors and coaches have been notified of the plan and approval process.
Once athletics have reopened, NMUSD school-based programs will begin to consider outside user (non-district) groups where possible and while maintaining safety on at campuses and facilities.
Many frequently asked questions regarding youth sports policies by the CDPH can be found here.
Church gathering fills Pirate’s Cove beach
Photo by Mike Villani
Despite coronavirus concerns, many of the Orange County faithful are still gathering for prayer and baptism, many times along our coastal fronts. This photo taken from just offshore on the evening of Friday, July 31, shows a rather large gathering around 6:30 p.m. in Pirate’s Cove at Big Corona.
Liverpool FC International Academy offers free youth soccer skills clinics
Liverpool FC International Academy SoCal Newport Mesa is excited to offer free youth soccer skills clinics for local Newport youths ages 6-11, to be held in Newport Beach.
Following the recent announcement from the County of Orange authorizing the return of youth sports, LFCIA So Cal, one of Orange County’s premier youth soccer programs, has organized this opportunity for the benefit of all interested Newport youth soccer players to get back on the field, while maintaining safe return to play protocols and following all CDC youth sports requirements.
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Courtesy of Liverpool FC International Academy
Liverpool FC International Academy teaches soccer skills adhering to CDC safety protocols
Free skills clinics for boys and girls ages 6-11 years old, conducted by professional camp leaders and accredited coaches, will take place Saturdays on August 15, 22 and 29, from 9-10:30 a.m. at Bonita Canyon Sports Park, Field #5, located at 1702 Ford Road, Newport Beach.
In order to reserve your child’s spot, register at www.freecamp.lfciasocal.com. Space is limited. Let’s get kids outside and active.
For more information, contact Barb Salamoff, LFCIA SoCal Director of Community Outreach, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
What’s happening at Newport Beach Public Library?
Although the library is closed to the general public, a lot is happening to take advantage of – from the mobile app and distance learning to virtual programs.
–NBPL Mobile App: Take the Newport Beach Public Library with you using the new NBPL Mobile App. Find reading materials, eBooks & eAudio, news, online resources, special events and more.
~Search the catalog
~Manage your account
~Place holds and renewals
~Find your nearest library
~Access online resources
~Connect via social media
~Contact NBPL
Download the Newport Beach Public Library App from the Apple Store or Google Play Store and get started using the easy and convenient NBPL mobile app.
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Courtesy of NBPL
Newport Beach Central Library
–Distance Learning Hub: Geared for students K-6th grade, NBPL librarians have created an extensive list of online educational resources to support educators, parents and caregivers with digital learning, and engage students grades K-6 on a wide variety of subjects. Subjects include Art & Music, Social Studies, Literacy and STEM. Create, read, code, meditate, write and travel with these distance learning resources at www.newportbeachlibrary.org/children/.
–Curbside Service: Available Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., browse the Library Catalog and order library materials by placing holds using the website catalog. Pick up books, DVDs, audiobooks, video games, craft packs and more at your convenience. Eligible library materials will now automatically renew if there are no holds on loaned materials.
–Virtual Programs:
~Tune-in Tuesdays beginning on August 25 at 9:30 a.m. will feature stories, songs and interactive play, but doesn’t have to be Tuesday to watch. Look for storytimes at www.newportbeachlibrary.org/children/.
~This is What Blind Looks Like, now showing on YouTube. Twenty-six-year child development educator and author Kim Cox talks about her new book, This is What Blind Looks Like in this virtual interview. She has written a unique series of books, the Warrior Moms, designed to give children the skills to understand and talk about differences; and to learn positive ways to include classmates with unique needs through self-awareness, friendliness and empathy. Her books offer support for students, parents and educators.
Newport Beach is your education destination
With the start of the school year upon us, there are plenty of opportunities to continue to learn outside the “classroom.” Newport Beach is filled with educational subjects and experiences for children of all ages. Here are some places to explore from science, art and history “classes” with plenty of time for recess...so go re-discover our community with the youngsters. Practice social distancing and wear face coverings when you come in close contact with others.
Science Class:
–Crystal Cove Tide Pools. When the water recedes at low tide, rocks are revealed with pools of ocean water along the shoreline. Peek inside and you will find a thriving habitat filled with many living organisms. It is prohibited to pick up or remove any plants or animals living in this marine protected area, so observe a variety of sea creature where they are. The four viewing areas include Reef Point, Rocky Bight, Pelican Point and Treasure Cove. To see species you might find from crabs, sea stars and sea anemones to aquatic plants and more, visit www.crystalcovestatepark.org/tide-pool-creatures/. Wear shoes with a good grip.
Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy
At low tide in Crystal Cove, view myriad sealife that call tidepools home
–Back Bay Science Center | Virtual Classroom. The Back Bay Science Center is temporarily closed, but they’ve put together an interactive guideline on the ecology and biology of the Upper Newport Bay. After, make the virtual classroom a reality by taking a stroll along the 3.5-mile Back Bay loop filled with diverse plant and animal life. www.oppia.org/explore/PGWzeIEYjHxZ
–Crystal Cove Conservancy | Virtual Project Crystal. The Crystal Cove Conservancy, Crystal Cove State Park and UC Irvine have designed a program to address concepts such as plant ecology, the water cycle and how new scientific ideas can protect undeveloped spaces. Participants will learn about real-life challenges in protecting Moro Canyon while investigating scientific questions, designing a model, setting up an experiment, analyzing data and ultimately creating a recommendation for Crystal Cove State Park. Project Crystal is designed for the fifth grade curriculum and is available online through Google Classroom. Visit their site for more information. https://crystalcove.org/education/distance-learning/virtual-project-crystal/
Art Class:
–Newport Beach Civic Center Sculpture Garden. Twenty unique sculptures can be viewed at Newport Beach’s Civic Center Park which are part of an ongoing exhibition from the city. The 14-acre park is a local’s favorite for a leisurely stroll along various paths which take you to each sculpture, including 10 new ones in Phase V. There is an elevated vantage point above the park which showcases sweeping ocean views and 360 vistas of the coastline. Go here for more information and to view the newest installations.
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Courtesy of NB Cultural Arts
“Fractured Peace” by artist Nancy Mooslin is among the Phase V sculptures at Civic Center Park
–Timree Paint Studio | Online Paint Classes. Timree Paint Studio in Westcliff makes it easy for your little ones to discover their inner artist. Sign up for a variety of online streaming packages for live classes and access to previously recorded streams so the creativity never stops. Paint kits are also available to order which comes with all the necessary art supplies in one easy box. Visit Timree’s website for more information. Timree Paint Studio makes it easy for your little ones to discover their inner artist! Sign up for a variety of online streaming packages for live classes and access to previously recorded streams so the creativity never stops. Paint kits are also available to order which comes with all the necessary art supplies in one easy box. Visit Timree’s website for more information. www.timree.com
–Crystal Cove Conservancy | Virtual Summer Art Camp. Crystal Cove Conservancy’s ongoing Virtual Summer Art Camp is designed for artists of all levels! Participants will learn about the fundamentals of art such as tools, concepts and composition and will ultimately put it all together to create their very own Crystal Cove inspired drawing or painting. The program is free to join and no special materials are required. Visit their site for more information. https://crystalcove.org/education/distance-learning/virtual-summer-art-camp/
History Class:
–Balboa Island Museum & Historical Society | Virtual 10 Minutes History Talks. The Balboa Island Museum is an homage to the deep history of Balboa Island and its inhabitants. The museum is temporarily closed but has created “10 Minutes History Talks,” a series of videos with museum curator, Celeste, on topics that are part of Newport Beach’s rich history such as sailing, whaling, important figures and more. www.balboaislandmuseum.org/
Recess:
–Balboa Ferris Wheel. Sometimes life is about enjoying the little things. Ride the Ferris Wheel at the FunZone. Take a ride up to the sky, grab your favorite scoops of ice cream from Cowafornia Ice Cream & Coffee and spend some quarters on the old-school games at the arcade. Yes, life’s a beach.
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Courtesy of Visit Newport Beach
The Balboa Ferris Wheel, a Peninsula landmark, offers great harbor views
–Glow in the Dark Stand Up Paddleboarding. Available only during the summer, SUP Glow by Pirate Coast Paddle Company hosts a guided night tour through the calm waters of Newport Harbor. A magical experience that is not to be missed. www.visitnewportbeach.com/tours-and-whale-watching/pirate-coast-paddle-company/
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Courtesy of Newport Bay Conservancy
A white egret at Upper Newport Bay
–Walk the Back Bay. Whether you take a shortcut or hike the entire 10.5-mile loop, the Back Bay is filled with fresh air and sweeping views. It’s family friendly, dog friendly and social distancing friendly, no matter what time of day you go. View the birds and waterfowl that migrate here or call the Back Bay home. www.visitnewportbeach.com/vacations/back-bay/
–Stroll Sherman Library & Gardens. Spend a few hours getting lost among lush greenery, the sound of fountains and the smell of fresh flowers. This summer, check out Sculptura Botanica, an exhibit of botanically themed installation of sculptures from local landscape designer, Dustin Gimbel. www.thesherman.org
Orange County Community Foundation to host Greatness Amplified Giving Day
On August 26, the Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF), based in Newport Beach, will host Greatness Amplified, a Giving Day for Boys and Girls Clubs in Orange County. Together, the 13 Boys and Girls Clubs aim to raise $150,000 to provide critical services to children and families in the midst of the pandemic.
The participating organizations include Boys and Girls Clubs in Anaheim-Cypress, Brea-Placentia-Yorba Linda, Capistrano Valley, Central Orange Coast, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Valley, Laguna Beach, La Habra, South Coast Area, Stanton, Tustin and Westminster.
“In the midst of a public health crisis, we are proud to once again be supporting our local Boys and Girls Clubs to maximize their positive impact on children and youth throughout Orange County,” said Shelley Hoss, president and CEO, OCCF. “We continue to be inspired by the resiliency of our local nonprofits and the outpouring of generosity from the Orange County community during these uncertain times.”
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Submitted photo
Thirteen Boys and Girls Clubs aim to raise $150,000 for critical services to children and families during the pandemic
Since the pandemic began, the aligned clubs have monitored health and safety guidelines and crafted strategies to support members and local communities with enhanced summer enrichment programs, youth and family virtual programming and college-bound virtual services. While adhering to public safety guidelines, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Orange County have been working tirelessly to serve youth through their summer programs and ensure the community receives needed support and mentorship.
Now in its third year, Greatness Amplified is the latest in a series of Collaborative Giving Days launched by OCCF to boost the capacity of local nonprofits. OCCF will power the Greatness Amplified campaign with seed funding to support the marketing assets, campaign resources and collaborative partnerships.
This Giving Day is the latest of a series that, to date, has raised more than $10 million for Orange County nonprofits. OCCF first challenged Orange County residents to “give where their heart lives” during the inaugural iheartoc Giving Day in 2015, raising more than $1.8 million for 347 participating nonprofits in just 30 hours. In 2018, OCCF restructured iheartoc as an expanded opportunity for nonprofits to connect with one another in support of their shared missions.
To give online, visit https://greatness-amplified-giving-day.ocnonprofitcentral.org/.
Additional collaborative Giving Days will be announced throughout the year. For more information, visit www.oc-cf.org/iheartoc.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast serves Newport Beach.
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
Charlin Garcia, 30, San Jacinto – Wednesday, August 12
Gilberto Partida Herrera, 34, Moreno Valley – Monday, August 10
Jacob Ryan Seidberg Caballero, 18, Huntington Beach – Monday, August 10
Incident Reports
Wednesday, August 12
Arrests for Being Drunk in Public
None
30th St. & Beach I Controlled Substance and Burglary Tools
4:06 p.m. Joshua Michael Witt, 35, Buena Park, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of burglary tools. Bail was set at $10,000.
Fair Drive I 00 Block I Costa Mesa I Identity Theft, Burglary, Acquiring Access Cards and Receiving Stolen Property
2:26 p.m. Steven Casey Weeks, 39, Costa Mesa, was arrested for identity theft by personating another to get money, commercial burglary using fraud/forgery, acquiring access card account information and receiving stolen property with a value less than $950. Bail was set at $100,000.
Placentia Ave. & Hospital Road I Paraphernalia and Probation Violation
11:49 a.m. Damian John Warren, 38, Santa Ana, was arrested for possession of unlawful paraphernalia and on a felony probation violation. Bail was set at $500.
E. Coast Highway & Clubhouse Drive I Public Nudity, Controlled Substance, Paraphernalia and Under the Influence
7:07 a.m. Charles Connor Bailey, 39, Redlands, was arrested for public nudity, possession of a controlled substance, possession of unlawful paraphernalia and for being under the influence of a controlled substance. Bail was set at $2,500.
Seaward Road & E. Coast Highway I Driving while Suspended/Revoked, Fireworks and Warrant
4:05 p.m. Adan Cruzolivera, 38, Costa Mesa, was arrested for driving while suspended or revoked, selling unclassed fireworks, possession of fireworks without a permit, possession of a gross weight of fireworks less than 25 pounds and on a warrant for DUI. Bail was set at $15,000.
Tuesday, August 11
Arrests for Being Drunk in Public
Ventura Ben Guerrero, 47, Newport Beach
46th St. & Balboa Blvd. I Controlled Substance and Paraphernalia
8:38 a.m. Carlos Mendoza Ramirez, 39, Santa Ana, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of unlawful paraphernalia. Bail was set at $2,500.
Superior Ave. I 1400 Block I Trespassing & Controlled Substance
12:38 a.m. Louis Monico Ornelas, 43, San Bernardino, was arrested for trespassing for failing to leave a property and for possession of a controlled substance without a prescription. Bail was set at $500.
Monday, August 10
Arrests for Being Drunk in Public
None
24th St. I 100 Block I Drinking in Public and Obstructing/Resisting
5:49 p.m. Karla Dominguez Nino, 37, Riverside, was arrested for drinking in public and obstructing or resisting a peace officer. Bail was set at $500.
W. Coast Highway I 3300 Block I Warrants
2:55 p.m. Esaul Lopez Reyes, 49, Santa Ana, was arrested on four warrants for grand theft, carrying a concealed dirk or dagger, driving while suspended or revoked and trespassing. Bail was set at $26,500.
55th St. & Seashore Drive I Controlled Substance and Unlawful Registration
9:21 a.m. Timothy Scott Baca, 43, Riverside, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful registration with the intent to deceive. Bail was set at $2,500.
Jamboree Road & University Drive I Appropriating Lost Property, Paraphernalia, Controlled Substance, Narcotics, Receiving Stolen Property, Burglary Tools and Bicycle Headlights/Reflectors Violation
1:44 a.m. Joseph Robert Hart, 24, Santa Ana, was arrested for appropriating lost property, possession of unlawful paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a narcotic controlled substance, receiving stolen property with a value less than $950, possession of burglary tools and for a bicycle headlight or reflector violation. Bail was set at $10,000.
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.
