Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Students to protest at District offices today for in-person 2020 graduation ceremonies

Today in Stu News we present several voices of high school students sharing their opinions on what this year’s Class of 2020 high school graduation should look like.

On one hand, the option is to follow the Newport-Mesa Unified School District’s plan to provide a virtual graduation by broadcasting it. NMUSD has already contracted with Van Wagner Sports and Entertainment to provide that. To their credit, Van Wagner recently did the USC graduation and has worked with many major organizations, including the NFL. So, they’re obviously accomplished.

But wait, there’s another side of students who feel excluded from the decision-making process. They want to go in a different direction and call for an in-person graduation, perhaps even in July or August, while following federal and state protocols in play at that time for health safety. They’ve even gone as far as measuring the available space at Davidson Field to make certain it would work with social distancing guidelines required for six feet of separation. They say it not only works, but it’s really three times the amount of space required.

Those students pushing for the in-person graduation have called for a peaceful, safe social-distancing, mask-wearing protest today at the District offices in Costa Mesa beginning at 11 a.m. The hope is to show those in control at the District that such an in-person graduation would be possible and safe by doing so.

It’s a tough call. Unfortunately, many of these seniors feel cheated out of their senior year, missing the prom, the end-of-the-year yearbook signing, spring sports, spring plays and performances, and now potentially their graduation.

Hopefully, today will lead to a good discussion and ultimately involve all of the students in the decision-making process to come to some common ground.

Let’s figure it out and make sure we send them off right.

• • •

Last weekend it was invigorating seeing the community come alive after so much time in seclusion. People filled our beaches, with proper social distancing seemingly in play, our restaurants started serving inside again, and retail stores began turning those closed signs around and welcoming back customers.

When I checked with the voices behind Fashion Island they told me, “(We) never closed and have continuously remained open for stores offering essential services, as well as stores and restaurants with curbside pickup. We are excited to welcome back even more stores and customers now that the Governor and County have started to ease restrictions.

“We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to prepare for this day, and to provide safe and supportive environments for our guests. Part of this effort was establishing new comprehensive cleaning and sanitizing protocols, as well as the installation of physical distancing signage throughout the center. Fashion Island and its merchants and restaurants will be following all government guidelines for safe practices.” 

Across town, South Coast Plaza has plans to reopen next Monday, June 1.

“We are thrilled to learn that we are now allowed to reopen to the public,” said SCP spokesperson Debra Gunn Downing. “South Coast Plaza and its retailers and restaurants are ready with new social distancing measures and other significant protocols designed to provide a safe and welcoming shopping experience for our visitors. We will reopen (on June 1) and share details about our new practices soon.”

This is good news to everyone, so get out there and shop, shop, shop.

• • •

Note, tonight’s City Council Regular Meeting and Closed Session begins at 5 p.m. There will be no Study Session, instead, it will be preceded by the City Council Joint Meeting with the Finance Committee beginning at 4 p.m.

Both sessions will be broadcast on NBTV.

General William Lyon dies at 97

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Courtesy of U.S. Air Force (Public Domain)

General William Lyon

William Lyon, a renowned homebuilder and Orange County civic leader, died Friday, May 22, at the age of 97.

Lyon was born in 1923 in Los Angeles. He attended the University of Southern California prior to enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a reservist in 1943.

During WWII, Lyon was assigned to the Pacific and European theaters where he ferried aircraft.

In 1953 he volunteered for a tour of duty in Korea and flew some 75 combat missions.

Lyon remained in the service as a reservist throughout the years before retiring in 1979 as a major general in the Air Force, with duties that included serving as the Commander of the U.S. Air Force Reserve Command.

His military decorations and awards included the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Legion of Merit, Presidential Unit Citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Combat Readiness Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with hour glass device, and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.

He was the founder of the Lyon Air Museum near the John Wayne Airport.    

Lyon joined Newport Beach resident George Argyros in 1981 to buy AirCal airline.

In addition to his military career, Lyon joined his family in developing an Orange County home building company in the 1950s.

In the early 1970s, Lyon started The William Lyon Co., headquartered in Newport Beach. He developed it into one of the largest homebuilding companies in the nation.

Lyon was also very active locally in philanthropic endeavors supporting organizations including the Orange County Performing Arts Center, Orangewood Children’s Foundation and the Boy Scouts of America.

He is survived by his wife, Willa Dean; two daughters, Susan Isola and Christine Rhoades; stepdaughter, Marcia Stone; son, Bill H. Lyon; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a son, Byron Russell.

Services will be private with a celebration of life to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Orangewood Foundation (www.orangewoodfoundation.org).

Asher Green: Stu News salutes 2020 Corona del Mar High School Graduating Senior

Asher Green is graduating from Corona del Mar High School. He will be attending Princeton University in New Jersey, and hopes to major in the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs. While at CdM, he was on the Varsity Sailing Team and served as President of the CdM Speech and Debate team. He is one of the school’s valedictorian scholars.

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Courtesy of Asher Green

Asher is bound for Princeton University

Among his accomplishments are going to New York for the International High School Model UN Conference. He has a passion for flying, which began last summer, taking “ground school” lessons at Orange Coast College. He followed that up with flight lessons at John Wayne Airport, and flew solo (without his flight instructor) for the first time. He currently holds a student pilot’s license and is close to earning his private pilot’s license. He, along with his father, Todd, who is also a pilot, flew and delivered 11,000 N95 masks from Chicago to the Navajo Nation on May 8-11.

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Courtesy of NMUSD

(L-R) Asher Green and his father, Todd, flying to deliver masks to the Navajo Nation (face coverings are in the black bags behind them)

Asher has always lived in Newport Beach, and has a younger sister, Ella, who is a junior. According to one of his teachers, Michael Dobyns, “Asher is a big thinker and loves discussing world issues and politics. He has a thirst for knowledge and is well-rounded. He is one of those kids that you know will continue to better the world as he develops through his life path.”

Go Asher! Go Tigers!

Congratulations!

In order to celebrate our graduating seniors’ achievements together as a community, we would like to extend an invitation to graduating seniors and their parents to submit announcements about college acceptances and plans for next year. Please submit your information to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Alex Kwon: Stu News salutes 2020 Sage Hill School Graduating Senior

Alex Kwon is a graduating senior from Sage Hill School, where his career focused on research, teaching and golf. 

His research projects involved physical chemistry and biochemistry, and he is also a published first author in a peer-reviewed medical journal. Many Saturdays, Alex teaches math and science to middle school students in Santa Ana, or emcees math tournaments in Orange County. 

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Photos courtesy of the Kwon family

Alex is headed to Stanford University

At Sage Hill, he served as a Student Ambassador, Peer Counselor and Captain of Varsity Golf. He was a freshman starter for Varsity Golf and won the Coach’s Award that year. Sage Hill had been league champions for the past three years. The team hoped to capture the league title again this year, but the season was sadly cut short. 

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Teeing off, Alex enjoys a round of golf at Paradise Island Golf Club, Bahamas

Alex is grateful for his family, friends, coaches and teachers who supported him and the opportunities at Sage Hill. He hopes to continue these interests at Stanford University in Palo Alto, where he plans to study Chemistry and Global Health and play club golf. 

Go Alex! Go Cardinal!

Congratulations!

In order to celebrate our graduating seniors’ achievements together as a community, we would like to extend an invitation to graduating seniors and their parents to submit announcements about college acceptances and plans for next year. Please submit your information to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

High school students planning late-morning protest today at District offices for graduation changes

Several students from Newport Harbor High School are organizing a peaceful protest, following safe-distancing protocols and encouraging masks, today at 11 a.m. while calling for “in-person” graduation. The protest is being organized to take place in front of the Newport-Mesa School District offices at 2985 Bear St., Costa Mesa.

Last week the District announced that this year’s graduation would be done virtually, much to the chagrin of some students.

Several students penned letters to Superintendent Fred Navarro and the Board of Education Trustees to convey their thoughts. One in favor of the District’s plan and one proposing a new in-person graduation plan appear below.

Dear Superintendent Navarro and NMUSD Board of Education:

13 years. Over two-thirds of our lifetimes spent as active members of the NMUSD community. From Mariners Elementary, to Ensign Intermediate, now to graduating seniors at Newport Harbor High School, we have poured our hearts into this district. Collectively, the two of us have been involved in fundraisers, 7 clubs, 2 sports teams, Associated Student Body (ASB) officers at both Ensign Intermediate and Newport Harbor High School, 1,100 hours of community service, and have maintained GPAs above 3.8 for the entirety of our high school careers.

We feel blessed to have been a part of this community and are going to miss it dearly as we venture off into the next chapter of our lives, college. 

Up until now, we have never had a complaint about our school district. We feel extremely blessed to be students of such an involved and compassionate district that truly cares about our needs and desires. That is why we are trusting you to hear us out and act upon our wishes. 

We believe that we have earned the opportunity to be given an in-person graduation and to be celebrated, like all the classes of NHHS before us. There has only been one other class not to graduate on Davidson Field, and we do not want to be the second. 

We would also like to mention that we are fully aware of the seriousness of this pandemic. This is real, we are not denying that. However, the state and country have put guidelines in place to help us keep some form of normalcy, this being social distancing and wearing facial coverings. If we abide by these guidelines, we see no problem in a delayed graduation at Davidson Field. According to our math, we can fit 1,560 graduates on the field safely, but we only have 533. This means the football field has 3 times the required safety capacity needed to adhere by state policies. 

Our hearts have been broken and tears have been shed the past month and a half over the continuing loss/cancellation of the senior events we have worked for and looked forward to over the past 12 1/2 years. Finally, Wednesday morning we received news that our graduation would be virtual. We were not going to have a proper send-off, a chance to say goodbye to our beloved teachers or celebrate this amazing achievement with our peers. We are not alone in these feelings and share this loss with thousands of seniors across the country. 

Graduation is more than just receiving your diploma and hearing speeches, it is a milestone that represents the hard work put in to get to this point and honoring the person you have grown into throughout your journey. This ceremony brings closure to a significant chapter of our lives, and a virtual version of this does not do the milestone, or any student, justice. We believe that our dedication and achievements should be recognized through a proper in-person graduation. 

We are calling on you to use the leadership skills and creative minds that you were elected for and come up with a solution. School districts across the nation are coming up with creative ideas to celebrate their seniors, and we ask you to do the same. We urge you to consider a delayed graduation or any form of graduation where we are able to walk across our home football field together as the Class of 2020. 

Please do not underestimate the power of our community coming together as one, we can make this happen if you choose to allow it. There is no reason that we cannot make this work.

Thank you for your time and consideration and we hope you and your loved ones are staying safe and healthy through this trying time. 

Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. 

Sincerely, 

Ruby Trestik & Avery Wooden

NHHS, Class of 2020

• • •

Hi Dr. Navarro,

I wanted to let you know of this letter that I’ve written to my fellow seniors voicing my support for virtual graduation. Thank you for your efforts to help the less advantaged students through this difficult time. Feel free to share this letter.

I am writing in response to an open letter to the NMUSD board that claimed to represent the views of the class of 2020 and want to make it clear that some of us have a different view. I am in support of the NMUSD school board’s decision to hold a virtual graduation. Although this was an unpopular decision amongst many students, the need to protect our students, faculty and families continues to be a priority. I applaud the efforts of our school board to provide relief for the families who have been most impacted by the virus. Whether it’s providing free lunches, computers or wifi, they have been working tirelessly to serve our needs. While I don’t often voice my opinions, I feel our youth should be educated on the severity of the issue.

In the open letter, it was mentioned that “every single member in our community understands the magnitude of this virus” and that this has “heavily contributed to the decline in the amount of new cases everyday.” As of yesterday, May 21st, 2020, we experienced the highest number of new cases within the United States. Within just our county, the number of new COVID cases continues to rise daily at near record numbers. It seems many in our community don’t actually understand the real severity of the issue at hand. As someone who is attempting to self-isolate and follow CDC guidelines, it has become increasingly frustrating to go on social media and see large groups of my classmates gathering in crowds. I have also seen offensive remarks aimed at our state legislatures and particularly Governor Newsom. While this situation is not ideal for any of us, I often question the motivation behind this “activism”. Many will argue that they want the economy to open back up to support our businesses and to stop the rising unemployment rate. Yet many of those who complain about the economic toll of the shutdown, aren’t willing to wear masks to protect workers. Given the behaviors that I’ve witnessed first hand, I’ve come to realize that many of us simply wish to return to the luxuries of experiencing dining out, shopping trips or haircuts, but aren’t willing to do it in a responsible way. We must realize that there is a displacement of blame. We must not blame our school board for the events that have unfolded. Instead, we must work together to stop the spread and support the decision of our school board as they are doing the same.

At 18 years old, I have been forced to grow up over these past couple months. I have spent time witnessing the world around me while enjoying quality time with my family before heading off to college. With this growing up, we must realize that in hard times, it is our responsibility as healthy, financially secure, young people to make sacrifices for the benefit of our community. When it comes to the hashtag #wedeservebetter that has been circulating among my classmates, I strongly believe that we should spend more time recognizing how good we actually have it. As many of us have been blessed to live in such an affluent place, I think the people who are harder impacted by the virus are truly the ones who deserve better. I invite my classmates to reflect on their time growing up in Orange County and to understand their privilege and find peace and pride in their upbringing thus far. With growing up, we must realize that in crisis, we may not always receive the things we think we “deserve,” however we must show our true resilience by standing up and sacrificing ourselves for those who are hit harder. Although teenagers are less likely to suffer serious consequences from the coronavirus, our roles as carriers of the virus means we are ALL personally responsible for stopping the further spread of COVID-19. This will help all of us return to normalcy sooner.

The bottom line is that holding an in-person graduation will not truly satisfy our desire for normalcy in the world we live in today. However, the potential spread of the virus could only make matters worse. We have to be better than this. Within our community, there is a socially accepted idea that the need for large gatherings has outweighed the risks of contracting and spreading the disease. As seniors, I believe we are role models to students who may see these actions on social media and believe it is righteous to go against the advice of our school board, government and doctors. While a virtual graduation may not keep students from ignoring guidelines, I think that it serves as a reminder to those of us who have forgotten the severity of the issues at hand. To my classmates – we must remember that in due time we will move beyond the uncertainties of the present and return to our normal lives. In the meantime, let’s remind ourselves to be thankful.

Anna Ellis

NHHS, Class of 2020 

WWII-era aircraft flypast on Memorial Day pays tribute to veterans, healthcare workers

On Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, WWII-era airplanes took to the skies above Southern California’s national cemeteries and hospitals to honor veterans and healthcare frontline workers.

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Photo by Scott Brashier

Flying over Pacific View Memorial Park & Mortuary, WWII planes fill the skies

The event, coined “Operation SoCal Strong,” began around noon at Loma Linda Medical Center, flying over John Wayne Airport, Pacific View Memorial Park & Mortuary in Corona del Mar and Newport Beach a short time after 12:30 p.m. The flypast culminated with a landing at Chino Municipal Airport shortly after 1 p.m.

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Photos by Suzi and Bruce White

WWII planes are captured from Begonia Park, Corona del Mar

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139 reported cases of COVID-19 in Newport Beach to date

Numbers released by the OC Health Agency today, May 26, reflect that there have been 139 reported cases of COVID-19 in Newport Beach to date.

Newport Beach, with a population of 87,180, has a per capita rate of 1.594 cases per thousand residents.

The city with the highest per capita rate in OC is Los Alamitos, with 6.399 cases per thousand residents. 

Huntington Beach has had 329 reported cases to date. Irvine has had 180 reported cases to date. Costa Mesa has had 104 reported cases to date. Laguna Beach has had 45 reported cases to date.

Santa Ana has had 1,032 reported cases to date, a net increase of 20 cases today. Anaheim has had 904 reported cases to date, a net increase of 22 cases today.

The County reports 370 cases to date in its “Other” category, which includes the aggregate case count of the unincorporated areas of the county that have less than five cases, plus cases incarcerated in Orange County jails.

There have been 5,578 cumulative reported cases to date in Orange County, including 110 new cases reported today. Sadly, the County reports that 131 people have died due to COVID-19, including 33 deaths reported in the last week. 269 individuals are currently hospitalized with COVID-19; 106 are currently in ICU.

105,138 cumulative tests have been administered by the HCA Public Health Lab and commercial labs countywide to date, with a 5.3 percent positive rate.

The County reports that 1,995 people have recovered from COVID-19 to date. The County states on its website:

“While every case of the new coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is reported to HCA, there is no practical way to find out if they’ve recovered. Moreover, many people may have experienced some symptoms of COVID-19, but were not tested, making it impossible to know the exact number of COVID-19 infections and recoveries. However, because it is important to know approximately how many residents may have been exposed and recovered in Orange County, an attempt to estimate the number of recovered cases [has been made] by taking the difference between the prior 28-day cumulative case count and current day mortality to determine the current day recovered total. Please note that these data are only an estimate and should be interpreted with caution. [Methodology: Prior 28-day cumulative case count – current day mortality = current day recovered]”

Numbers are updated daily by Stu News Newport and reported on our Facebook page @StuNewsNewport.

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Breaking News in Newport Beach

Multi-car crash closes PCH

Newport Beach Police responded to a vehicle crash involving 3-4 vehicles near the Balboa Bay Resort on W. Coast Highway this morning, May 26.

Police temporarily closed PCH from Dover Drive to Tustin Ave. to assist those involved and to investigate.

Photo by Kathy Shaw

Three people were transported to the hospital with injuries and one person was arrested for hit and run.

As CdM emerges from lockdown, the battle scars are hard to ignore

By AMY SENK

I walked up and down East Coast Highway in Corona del Mar recently, stopping to take photos and wave to people I recognized despite their face masks. It was a strange walk, filled with scenes that were frustrating or sad or just a little off kilter, like when I saw a group of police officers and civilians sitting at the café tables outside Pain Du Monde, chatting and drinking coffee as if things were normal, even though pdm is not even open for business these days.

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Photos by Amy Senk

Pain du Monde is still closed for business

In general, it has been good to see people out and about and more businesses starting to open, or hearing about their plans for reopening. But on my walk, for every hopeful sign, there seemed to be several ugly ones.

Some parts of Corona del Mar were trashy, literally. Containers of food, empty bottles, bottles stuck inside paper bags, broken bottles, all kinds of junk liberally dotted the streets and sidewalks. I felt sorry for business owners who have to clean up after the slobs who couldn’t be bothered to use a trash can. There also were two businesses with boarded up windows.

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The boarded up CDM Drugs was a result of a smashed window and looting

Later, I asked the Newport Beach Police Department spokeswoman about those, and she told me that on April 17, CDM Jewelry Consignment at 3617 E. Coast Highway had someone smash its window – no property loss, however. Then on May 5, a burglar smashed the window of CDM Drugs at 2865 E. Coast Highway, and there was a loss of cash and medication.

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Derma Spa hopes to open its doors soon

There were many businesses closed – Pain du Monde, Teuscher, nail salons, hair salons, flower shops and more. One business had a sign in the window that said, “We will reopen again in early May if everything is under control.” It was difficult to tell if businesses were closed permanently or temporarily. 

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The Wee Loft, a children’s toy store, is open for business

There were some bright spots, too. Businesses that are open also have signs, announcing delivery or takeout services. El Cholo used colorful spinning pinwheels to draw attention to its signs. The Crown Cove assisted living facility had signs that read, “Heroes work here.” The Tutu School dance studio had windows filled with children’s drawings of rainbows, with a notice explaining their Rainbow Challenge encouraged children to create rainbow artwork at home, and email it to them for display in an effort to thank essential workers.

I had missed my walks through town, but I hope next time I see more businesses open, less trash and a more “normal” CdM.

• • •

In other news, earlier this month, Harbor View Elementary School scheduled a drive-through for families to pick up belongings left at school and to return things like library books, and also to check out the school’s lost and found. Teachers had been in classrooms earlier and organized their students’ belongings, then set them up alphabetically. Families arrived on the Goldenrod campus, gave their names and picked up their stuff. It was a surreal end to the school year, as far as being actually at the school, and it made me nostalgic for the last weeks of school when my kids were little – Field Days, hikes to the beach for Earth Day, last-day-of-school parties.

Harbor View families will be able to stop by the school next week, however, for a more uplifting celebration. As part of the Parent Faculty Organization’s staff appreciation plans, staff has been asked to park on campus and stand by their vehicles while community members drive through with signs and cheers. The event is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Friday, May 29 and will be a chance for the Harbor View community to be reunited, COVID-19 style.

~~~~~~~~

Amy Senk has lived in Corona del Mar for 20+ years and was publisher of Corona del Mar Today, an online newspaper that ran daily for seven years. Senk, a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism, is involved in the Corona del Mar Residents Association and the Corona del Mar High School PTA. She and her husband have two children.

Governor approves OC plan, Newport Beach businesses are opening up

Orange County’s plan to accelerate Phase 2 business reopening was approved Saturday, May 23, clearing a path for Newport Beach’s restaurants to offer modified dine-in service and destination retail to allow customers in stores, if the appropriate health and safety measures are in place.

The County of Orange submitted a variance request late Thursday, demonstrating evidence that the State health criteria for reopening certain business categories had been met.

The Governor’s office approved the plan Saturday, which allows for the reopening (with social-distancing modifications) of dine-in restaurants and destination retail (including shopping malls and swap meets). Earlier Phase 2 openings included office-based businesses, outdoor museums and open gallery spaces, car washes, pet grooming, tanning facilities and landscaping services. The City recommends that businesses review all guidance from the State and County health care agencies, including, specifically, the California Department of Public Health’s website discussing the following: 

–Perform a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan.

–Train employees on how to limit the spread of COVID-19, including how to screen themselves for symptoms and stay home if they have them. 

–Implement individual control measures and screenings.

–Implement disinfecting protocols. 

–Implement physical distancing guidelines. 

To help businesses reopen quickly and in accordance with State health and safety reopening guidelines, the Newport Beach City Council will meet today (Tuesday, May 26) to consider an emergency ordinance that, if approved, will streamline permitting and approvals for the necessary physical improvements. This emergency ordinance would specifically address outdoor dining and retail as well.

The proposed “Back to Business Newport Beach” program was developed to enable businesses to quickly obtain temporary use permits for modifications such as providing safe space for curbside pickup, offering takeout windows, expanding operations outdoors and more. 

Detailed information for specific industries can be found on Orange County’s website at https://covid19.ca.gov/industry-guidance/. For additional information from the Orange County Public Health Agency, visit https://occovid19.ochealthinfo.com/article/oc-health-officers-orders-recommendations. For the State’s “Resilience Roadmap” to reopening businesses, visit https://covid19.ca.gov/roadmap/#top.

Newport nights

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Photo by Kevin Pellon (Instagram @socalsnapz)

Looking out over our beautiful city at dusk

CdM High School principal announces retirement

Kathy Scott, principal of Corona del Mar High School, has announced her retirement effective July 1. Scott leaves the school after seven years at the helm.

In a letter to the Sea King families, Scott said, “We have experienced many challenges, deep sorrows, and great successes together. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to have walked beside you through all of it. I leave the Corona del Mar community with so many fond memories, a sense of pride in what we have accomplished together, and a great deal of confidence that CdM High School will move steadily forward, continuing to provide an outstanding educational opportunity for all of our families.”

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Courtesy of NMUSD

Kathy Scott, principal of Corona del Mar High School, has announced her retirement

Scott cites her reasons for leaving to her home state of Texas as an opportunity to spend more time with family and grandchildren.

The Newport-Mesa School District is planning a “thought exchange” to gather input from the community as to what they’re looking for in their next principal.

Del Real named new principal of Harbor View Elementary

With more than 20 years of experience in education, Gabriel Del Real has been selected as the new principal of Harbor View Elementary School, filling the vacancy left by Carol Furman, who is relocating to Missouri.

Del Real has served as principal of Adams Elementary for the past eight years and has proven to be an “exceptional leader, with strong communication skills, instructional knowledge and the ability to build lasting relationships with staff and parents to help students thrive.” 

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Courtesy of NMUSD

Gabriel Del Real

Prior to serving as principal, Del Real was an elementary teacher at multiple NMUSD sites and a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA), responsible for coordinating staff development opportunities and the design of technology lessons that supplemented core curriculum. He most recently served as the coordinator of K-12 curriculum and instruction, supporting instructional programs districtwide and facilitating the adoption and implementation of instructional materials.

“While I have enjoyed supporting my colleagues with meeting the instructional needs of students throughout our district, I am excited to serve as principal of Harbor View Elementary,” said Del Real. “Harbor View has an outstanding reputation as a school completely devoted to student success. It is with great pleasure and humility that I join the remarkable Harbor View School community to continue the tradition of excellence in service of students.”

Del Real received his Bachelor of Science in Child and Adolescent Studies and his Master of Science in Reading Instruction from California State University, Fullerton, as well as his Education Administrative Services Credential from the University of California Irvine.

Guest Column

Steve Rosansky

Businesses keeping people safe

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Courtesy of NBCC

Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Steve Rosansky

With the recent approval by the California Department of Public Health to allow Orange County businesses and restaurants to be able to reopen, the Orange County Health Care Agency (the “OCHCA”) has issued a strong series of Orders for businesses to follow if they want to reopen their doors to the public.  Their main purpose is to keep the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus to the low levels we currently experience. 

The OCHCA has ordered that Orange County businesses shall attest on a written document posted at their entrance that they have done the following:

–Found the guidance that is most relevant to their respective industries on the State website.

–Performed a detailed risk assessment and implemented a site-specific protection plan.

–Trained employees on how to limit the spread of COVID-19, including how to screen themselves for symptoms and stay home if they have them.

–Implemented individual control measures and screenings.

–Implemented disinfecting protocols.

–Implemented physical distancing guidelines. 

In addition, the OCHCA has ordered that all Orange County residents and visitors must wear a cloth face covering when 1) in a public place, 2) visiting a retail, commercial, or other place of business, or 3) at work when the person is not able to maintain at least six feet of physical distance from another person who is not a family member or a member of their household.

We can all play a part in making sure that we do not spread this killer in our community. By following some simple rules including social distancing, wearing a mask in public to protect yourself and those around you, and hand washing regularly, we can keep the transmission levels low and ensure maximum safety while still re-engaging with local businesses and our friends and family.

I encourage all businesses and places of work to study the guidelines and implement them. I also encourage everyone else to support those businesses that follow the rules and create a safe environment for you and your family, neighbors and friends.

Steven Rosansky is the President & CEO of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce.

5,578 reported cases of COVID-19 in OC to date, 131 people have died

The cumulative COVID-19 case count in Orange County is now 5,578, with 110 new cases reported today, May 26. Sadly, the County reports that 131 people have died due to COVID-19, including 43 deaths reported in the last week. 269 individuals are currently hospitalized with COVID-19; 106 are currently in ICU.

The first Orange County case of COVID-19 was reported on January 25.

The County Public Health lab and reporting commercial labs have conducted 105,138 tests as of yesterday, with a 5.3 percent positive rate.

The County reports that 1,995 people have recovered from COVID-19 to date. The County states on its website:

“While every case of the new coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is reported to HCA, there is no practical way to find out if they’ve recovered. Moreover, many people may have experienced some symptoms of COVID-19, but were not tested, making it impossible to know the exact number of COVID-19 infections and recoveries. However, because it is important to know approximately how many residents may have been exposed and recovered in Orange County, an attempt to estimate the number of recovered cases [has been made] by taking the difference between the prior 28-day cumulative case count and current day mortality to determine the current day recovered total. Please note that these data are only an estimate and should be interpreted with caution. [Methodology: Prior 28-day cumulative case count – current day mortality = current day recovered]”

For more information, visit www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus.

Numbers are updated daily by Stu News Newport.

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Courtesy of OC Health Care Agency

Orange County COVID-19 case data, as of May 26;

Click here to visit page that is updated daily

City Manager’s Updates

From the desk of Grace Leung

Courtesy of City of Newport Beach

Newport Beach City Manager Grace Leung

To Our Community: 

We anticipate that Newport Beach restaurants may soon be able to open for dine-in service, with modifications. (Last) week Governor Newsom announced more relaxed variance criteria for counties that are able to meet certain health benchmarks. The new criteria will enable cities to reopen businesses more quickly. 

The County of Orange submitted plans late Thursday demonstrating that the County has met the revised criteria. (The Governor’s office approved Orange County’s variance on Saturday.) 

On May 26, or sooner, the City Council will consider an emergency ordinance authorizing our Community Development department to grant emergency temporary use permits to local businesses that will allow the use of private property, parking lots, sidewalks and public property for expanded operations.

If the emergency ordinance is approved by the City Council, restaurant owners and managers will be able to submit applications and site plans for these temporary permits for review. It is our intention to review and approve these permits quickly for restaurants that meet the State public health requirements.

More information will be available soon on the City’s website at www.newportbeachca.gov/backtobusiness.

This week we took the first steps in a cautious, phased approach to reopening parks, recreational facilities and City Hall. Strict social distancing practices are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. All members of the public visiting City Hall are required to wear a face covering, and the number of people entering the building is being limited and managed by City staff.

On May 18, the Permit Center opened to walk-in customers. On May 26, the Building and Safety Counter will reopen. And, on June 1, all City Hall services will be open to the public. 

City libraries, the OASIS Senior Center and community centers will remain closed until further notice. 

Meanwhile, City beaches remain open for “active recreational use.” This includes swimming, surfing, walking and running. Fishing off the jetties is allowed. You can find more information on permitted uses on the City website. 

Public restrooms are open, and the Peninsula Boardwalk and Balboa Pier are open as part of the “active recreational use” of the beaches. We have slowly been reopening parking lots to ease the parking pressure on neighborhoods. (By Memorial Day we had plans to reopen all beach-area parking lots.)

The City’s public safety officers will strive to educate the public on “active recreation” use and we are hopeful that citations will be unnecessary. 

COVID-19 News and Resources 

Please visit www.newportbeachca.gov/covid19 for the latest City news and useful web resources, including information about the federal, state and county resources available to help small businesses and workers that have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 (coronavirus) crisis. We also have a page of free resources available through the Newport Beach Public Library and local organizations like SCORE, including online learning and business databases. Visit the Orange County Health Care Agency’s COVID-19 webpage for countywide information, including the number of local cases. You can also follow the City on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and look for alerts from our City staff on Nextdoor. 

COVID-19 Cases in Newport Beach 

The County of Orange posts reported COVID-19 cases by city at www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus. (The number as of May 24, 2020 is 139 cases in Newport Beach out of 5,469 cases total in Orange County.)

Fortunately, Newport Beach cases have flattened, with only slight day-to-day increases, over the past week. 

OC COVID-19 Screening and Testing Network 

The Orange County Heath Care Agency maintains a growing list of FDA-approved testing sites for County residents who are showing symptoms of COVID-19. If you are showing symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider for testing information first. If you do not have a healthcare provider, visit https://occovid19.ochealthinfo.com/covid-19-testing-and-screening for testing information. The SOS Health Center in Newport Beach is an approved community testing site. Call 949.270.2100 for an appointment.

Newport Beach works in partnership with the County of Orange and its testing, tracking and contact tracing program. This coordinated, centralized approach under County oversight is an effective way to monitor and control the spread of the coronavirus in our communities. 

Governor’s Executive Order Extends Appeal Periods on Coastal Development Permits 

In response to the COVID-19 virus, on April 16, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Executive Order N-52-20 extending a number of deadlines and timeframes, including tolling certain deadlines in the Coastal Act by 60 days. This impacts the effective date of City-issued Coastal Development Permits (CDPs) for development projects located in the Coastal Zone and subject to appeal by the California Coastal Commission (CCC). Typically, once a CDP is approved by the City and becomes effective, City staff mails a Notice of Final Action to the CCC beginning a 10-day appeal period. During this period, an appeal of the project can be filed with the CCC. However, as a result of the Executive Order, the appeal period of any CDP that began from April 2 to April 15 is interrupted and the clock resumes on June 15. For example, for an appeal period that began on April 15, one working day elapsed, and the rest of the period (nine working days) continues starting on June 15. For periods that began on April 16 or later, the final day to file an appeal will now be June 29, 10 working days after the end of the tolled period. For periods beginning on June 16, there will be no tolling, and the usual 10 working day period will resume. 

Homelessness Update 

Addressing homelessness continues to be a priority in the City’s ongoing COVID-19 response, working closely with contractor City Net and regional partners throughout the county and state. Recently, people in Newport Beach experiencing homelessness have been placed in motels through Project Roomkey, a state initiative to provide shelter during COVID-19. 

Success Stories: 

–Completed Vulnerability Index Intake Assessments with two people who stay near the Newport Pier. City Net utilizes the Vulnerability Index Intake Assessment to screen clients to determine proper placement in the County’s Continuum of Care system. Some assessment factors include age, health issues, and length of time being unsheltered. Case managers will follow up with the clients to provide housing assessments. 

–Enrolled four people experiencing homelessness near the Newport Pier into Project Roomkey. City Net case managers collaborated with staff from Illumination Foundation, the lead agency for the County to access the program. Illumination Foundation, founded in 2008, provides targeted services for the most vulnerable homeless clients. 

–The Homeless Liaison Officer and the Homeless Coordinator collaborated with Illumination Foundation to place two people experiencing homelessness at the Newport Transportation Center into Project Roomkey. The people were placed in a Huntington Beach motel. 

–Navigated the housing process for a veteran client who was previously staying near the Newport Transportation Center. He moved into the new apartment with assistance from his case managers. The case managers assisted with furniture as well. 

–Provided hygiene kits, food packs, clothes and supportive services for clients. 

–Newport Beach’s Rapid Response Team (comprised of staff from several City departments such as the Fire Department, OASIS Senior Center, the Police Department, and Public Works) conducted outreach with the City’s Homeless Liaison Officer. The team engages with homeless individuals in the field to help connect them to resources. During outreach, the OASIS Senior Center staff reviewed Medicare benefits with two seniors and connected them to a benefits administrator.

The City Net hotline number is 714.451.6198. Those who call the hotline may leave a detailed voicemail message for themselves or others in need and City Net staff will respond within 48 hours. For immediate assistance call the County’s Crisis Prevention Hotline at 877.7.CRISIS or 877.727.4747. To enroll in Project Roomkey, call 714.834.3000. 

Homeless Liaison Officer Cynthia Carter 

The Police Department would like to introduce our new Homeless Liaison Officer, Cynthia Carter. Officer Carter grew up in Corona, California before receiving her BA in Criminal Justice and Political Science from West Texas A&M University. She began her law enforcement career in 2012 at the Santa Barbara Police Department. In 2015, she joined the Newport Beach Police Department as a Lateral Police Officer. 

Officer Carter brings years of experience working with members of the homeless community in both of her beach city agencies. She has a passion for helping people and using her role to have a positive impact on her community and country. Officer Carter’s goal as the HLO is to provide the community with support regarding quality-of-life issues while balancing the needs of our homeless/vulnerable population. 

Library eBranch 

NBPL now offers Udemy. Library patrons can choose from over 100,000 online video courses with new additions published every month. The top-rated courses offer upskilling in the areas of business, tech, and personal development across 75+ different categories. Eighty-five percent of the collection has been updated in the last two years, ensuring learners are developing skills in the most relevant areas. Users can select the instructor and content that best addresses their skills need and learning preferences and filter search results on course features, level, duration, topic, and ratings. Access Udemy through the Library’s eBranch: www.newportbeachlibrary.org/ebranch.

NBPL’s Virtual programming seems to be popular! 

As of Wednesday, May 20: 

Video Memoir Writing Workshop (funded by generous donations from the Friends of the Library.) 

Part 1 posted on 5/12 has 441 views 

Part 2 posted on 5/18 has 160 views 

Let’s Talk Books 

Combined total of 452 views (8 staff videos) 

Crafts Videos 

Combined total of 201 views (4 project videos) 

Check out NBPL’s virtual programming at www.newportbeachlibrary.org/ebranch/
virtualprogramming. 

Insider’s Guide for the Newport Beach City Council Joint Meeting with the Finance Committee and the City Council Regular Meeting and Closed Session on May 26, 2020 

During these unprecedented times, public participation is critical for good governance and accountability. To that end, the City has implemented an Information Technology solution to ensure your voice is heard. Using a program called Zoom, the City will livestream the meeting through its website (www.newportbeachca.gov/nbtvlive) and will broadcast the meeting on its cable television channel NBTV (Spectrum Channel 3 and Cox Channel 852). The Mayor and City Council members will be seen on screen as they participate in the meeting from their homes or other secure locations. In addition to providing written comments prior to the meeting, members of the public can call in to provide their comments for agenda items in real time. The telephone numbers are listed after agenda item titles on the Council agenda and will appear on viewers’ screens at the appropriate times. Consistent with in-person Council meetings, callers will have three minutes to provide comments on an agenda item. 

Our next City Council meeting is (today) Tuesday, May 26, 2020. The entire agenda, and all reports, can be viewed here. There is a Joint Special meeting of the City Council and the Finance Committee at 4 p.m. with the following items of note: 

–This year is an unprecedented year for the City’s finances. The City has already seen significant drops in some major revenue sources due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Staff has prepared the budget with a number of reductions to and deferral of capital projects and operating expenditures. The City Council will discuss the proposed budget with the Finance Committee prior to budget adoption by the City Council on June 9, 2020. 

The Regular Meeting begins at 5 p.m. with the following items of note: 

–We are recommending an award of a contract to improve water quality in the bay. The storm drain located just off Old Newport Boulevard has long been an area of concern and is the last location to improve water going into the bay. The City has also received a grant in the amount of just over $500,000 to make this much needed improvement. 

–Public Works will award a contract for Cameo Highlands Street Reconstruction. This project will upgrade and repair these 1960s streets. 

–The City Council will consider an Emergency Ordinance to Fast Track Back to Business by allowing temporary use permits for businesses to use public spaces and parking lots to provide adequate social distancing. If approved, the ordinance would go into effect immediately. 

Due to the Governor’s order to stay at home, and to practice social distancing, there will be no members of the public in the City Council Chambers. If you wish to comment, you may do so telephonically and the City strongly encourages you to send your comments via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by Monday, May 25, at 5 p.m.

As County opens up, orders and recommendations change

The County Health Officer Saturday issued a new Health Officer’s Order and additional strong recommendations to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Orange County as more businesses move toward re-opening.

“The Order includes necessary preventative measures to control and reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community and help preserve the capacity in our local health care system, which was one of the metrics the California Department of Public Health took into account before approving our plan to move deeper into Stage 2 of re-opening Orange County,” said Dr. Nichole Quick, County Health Officer.

Effective at 12 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, and continuing until further notice, the following will be in effect in incorporated and unincorporated areas of Orange County: 

Self-Isolation of Persons with COVID-19: All county residents who have been diagnosed with or are likely to have COVID-19, as defined below, shall immediately isolate themselves in their home or another residence under the following criteria, as applicable:

–Individuals with COVID-19 symptoms shall isolate themselves until: (i) at least three days (72 hours) after they have recovered, meaning their fever has resolved without use of fever-reducing medications and their respiratory symptoms (e.g. cough, shortness of breath) have improved; AND (ii) at least 10 days has elapsed from when their symptoms first appeared.

–Individuals who have a positive COVID-19 PCR laboratory test result and are without COVID-19 symptoms shall isolate themselves for 10 days from the date when the specimen for the positive COVID-19 PRC laboratory test result was obtained.

–Unless one of the criteria above applies, the individual may not leave his or her place of isolation except to receive necessary medical care.

A person is considered to be diagnosed with or likely to have COVID-19, if the person has:

–Received a positive COVID-19 PCR laboratory test result; and/or

–Been informed by a physician that he or she is likely to have COVID-19; and/or

–Signs and symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19 (i.e. new onset of fever, cough, shortness of breath or trouble breathing).

This self-isolation order DOES NOT in any way restrict access by first responders to an isolation site during an emergency. 

Self-Quarantine of Persons Exposed to COVID-19: All county residents who know that they have been in close contact, as defined below, with a person diagnosed with or likely to have COVID-19 shall take the following actions:

–Quarantine themselves in their home or another residence until 14 days from the last date that they were in close contact with a person that has been diagnosed with or likely to have COVID-19.

–Exposed persons shall self-quarantine themselves for the entire 14-day COVID-19 incubation period, the typical time between exposure and when symptoms and signs of the disease may develop. They may not leave their place of quarantine except to receive necessary medical care or to obtain such other goods or services necessary for their basic subsistence.

–Close contact refers to any person who has been within six feet of an infectious COVID-19 person for 15 minutes or more. A person who is diagnosed with or likely to have COVID-19 is considered infectious from 48 hours before his or her symptoms first appeared until the person is no longer required to be isolated.

This self-quarantine order DOES NOT in any way restrict access by first responders to a quarantine site during an emergency. This self-quarantine SHALL NOT APPLY to health care professionals and law enforcement personnel.

Business Re-Opening: All businesses that are permitted to reopen in Orange County as part of Stage 2 of the State’s Resilience Roadmap shall comply with posting requirements. Most of the State’s industry-specific requirements are listed on the website at https://covid19.ca.gov/industry-guidance. Dine-in restaurants can find the State’s applicable requirements here, and the related checklist here. Posting shall be visible at the entrance of the business and specifically include an attestation by the business owner and/or operator that the business has:

–Performed a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan;

–Trained employees on how to limit the spread of COVID-19, including how to screen themselves for symptoms and stay home if they have them;

–Implemented individual control measures and screenings;

–Implemented disinfecting protocols; and

–Implemented physical distancing guidelines. 

Cloth Face-Covering: All Orange County residents and visitors shall wear a cloth face-covering when (i) in a public place; (ii) visiting a retail, commercial, or other place of business; or (iii) at work, and when the resident or visitor is not able to maintain at least six feet of physical distance from another person who is not a family/household member or lives in the same living unit. 

A cloth face-covering is a material that covers the nose and mouth; it can be secured to the head with ties or straps or simply wrapped around the lower face; it can be made of a variety of materials, such as cotton, silk, or linen; and a face-covering may be factory-made or sewn by hand, or can be improvised from household items such as scarfs, T-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels. 

The cloth face-covering Order SHALL NOT APPLY to children under the age of 2; anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the cloth face-covering without assistance; persons with a medical or mental health condition, or development disability that prevents wearing a cloth face-covering.

Residents are encouraged to read the Health Officer’s Order and strong recommendations in their entirety by clicking here, as there is greater detail that will help provide necessary clarification.

For more information and resources about COVID-19, visit www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus.

Dustin Gimbel’s SCULPTURAL BOTANICA is summer art installation at Sherman Gardens

Sherman Library & Gardens, now open to the public, is displaying SCULPTURAL BOTANICA, a new summer art installation by Dustin Gimbel, now through September 15.

Gimbel, a landscape designer and sculptor based in Long Beach, combines his lifelong interest in plants and more recent obsession with ceramics to create SCULPTURA BOTANICA, a sculptural exploration of plants and plant structures created exclusively for Sherman Library & Gardens.

Some of the sculptures highlight aspects of plants that may not normally grab one’s attention, while others are sheer flights of fancy. 

Click on photo for a larger image

Submitted photo

Sherman Library & Gardens presents “SCULPTURAL BOTANICA” by Dustin Gimbel

Many of the pieces are meant to recall the moment when one first “meets” a plant in person...and that sense of awe. Verticality plays a large role, as the towers and totems allow the visitor to still appreciate the gardens in which the sculptures stand. Many of the sculptures are site specific, designed to fit in, and are inspired by, the surroundings at Sherman Gardens. 

To create the artworks, Gimbel employed a variety of ceramic techniques, including wheel throwing, handbuilding, slabs, extrusions and slip casting. Most of the pieces were fired to cone 5 (2,167 degrees Fahrenheit). He had the help of a studio assistant eight hours a week during the nine months creating the pieces for the exhibit. The totems are supported by either galvanized pipe with a removable concrete footing or rebar that has been pounded into the ground. Wander throughout the gardens to view the 176 sculptures.

The installation is free to view with garden admission. Members of Sherman Gardens enjoy unlimited admission for the cardholder and a spouse or partner.

Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar. For more information and tickets, visit www.thesherman.org.

Police Files

Thieves enter unlocked garage and make off with vehicle and more

A garage burglary that took place in the 400 block of Fernleaf Ave. on Wednesday, May 20, at approximately 6:15 a.m. was reported to Newport Beach Police (NBPD).

According to reports, while the victim was away, two suspects parked in front of the residence. Suspect 1 approached the front of the property, while Suspect 2 waited in the car. Suspect 1 entered the backyard through a side gate and found the door to the detached garage unlocked. Suspect 1 then found vehicle keys, a vehicle and other property in the garage. The suspect took some of the property and drove off in the victim’s vehicle. 

Both suspects reportedly met up at a nearby parking lot before fleeing the area.

Suspect 1 was described as a Hispanic male, heavy-set build, 35-40 years old, with facial hair, wearing a white construction hat, neon yellow/green shirt, black undershirt, black pants and black shoes.

Suspect 2 was described as a white male, thin build, 35-40 years old, wearing a black shirt, black pants and a black beanie. He was driving a black Honda Accord.

Reported losses in addition to the vehicle included firearm gear, a purse, generator, tools and electronics.

NBPD would like to remind residents to keep all garage doors closed and locked, including pedestrian doors. NBPD also asks that if anyone notices suspicious activity, vehicles or people, to please call 949.644.3717 immediately.

Suspect smashes sliding glass door in CdM burglary

A residential burglary in the 1000 block of Goldenrod Ave. was reported to NBPD on Thursday, May 21. The incident reportedly took place in the Harbor View Hills neighborhood sometime between May 11 and May 14. 

While the home was vacant, an unknown suspect reportedly smashed a sliding glass door in the rear of the house and entered. Once inside, the suspect reportedly rummaged through the entire home, ransacking drawers, closets and cabinets before leaving through the front door.

The loss is unknown at this time.

There is no suspect information available.

Electronics stolen during residential burglary

A residential burglary that occurred in the 1600 block of Sherington Place on Tuesday, May 19, between approximately 4:30-5:30 p.m. was reported to NBPD. 

While the victim was away, an unknown suspect reportedly forced open the locked apartment door and removed the victim’s property before fleeing the scene.

The reported losses were electronics.

There is no suspect information available.

Thank you lifeguards

Click on photo for a larger image

Photo by Stacia Stabler 

Lifeguards on duty keeping us safe from Tower 44

State program will track coronavirus spread contact points

In the ongoing efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, on May 22, Governor Gavin Newsom launched California Connected, the state’s comprehensive contact tracing program and public awareness campaign. As part of California Connected, public health workers from communities across the state will connect with individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and work with them, and people they have been in close contact with, to ensure they have access to confidential testing, as well as medical care and other services to help prevent the spread of the virus.

The state’s program is led by the Administration in collaboration with the California Department of Public Health, local public health departments and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Los Angeles (UCLA), which have launched a robust online training academy to develop a culturally competent and skilled contact tracing workforce.

“We are all eager to get back to work and play, and that’s why we’re asking Californians to answer the call when they see their local public health department reaching out by phone, email or text,” said Governor Newsom. “That simple action of answering the call could save lives and help keep our families and communities healthy.”

To prevent the spread of this virus, public health workers will connect Californians with confidential testing. They may also recommend medical care, and that individuals who could be infectious separate themselves from others in their home to protect those around them. Information provided to local public health departments is confidential under California law. Public health authorities will not share that information with outside entities. That information will be used for public health purposes only. Contact tracers will not ask for financial information, social security numbers or immigration status.

“A key step in stopping the spread of COVID-19 is quickly identifying and limiting new cases, across the diversity of our populations – and that’s exactly what this statewide program does,” said Dr. Sonia Angell, California Department of Public Health Director and State Health Officer. “We are bringing together the best minds in public health, academia and private industry to design a program that can help lower the risk for COVID-19 in all of our communities and keep us on the path to reopening.”

The California Connected public awareness campaign is getting off the ground this week with support from multiple private partners who have committed a total of $5.1 million in funding and in-kind resources to help educate all Californians, and underserved communities in particular. These partners include Jeff Skoll and his organizations (The Skoll Foundation, Participant, and Ending Pandemics), The California Health Care Foundation, The California Endowment, Twitter and Facebook, in addition to existing media partners engaged in the larger public awareness effort.

Beginning this week, Californians across the state will hear radio ads and see billboards, social media posts and videos in multiple languages encouraging them to answer the call to slow the spread of COVID-19. Public health workers across the state – identified on caller ID as the “CA COVID Team” – will call, text and email individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and people they may have unknowingly exposed to the virus.

The state plans to launch 10,000 contact tracers statewide as part of its plan to reopen California. More than 500 individuals have been trained under the new contact tracing program, and more than 300 are being trained this week.

To streamline and coordinate these efforts, Accenture, a leading global professional services company, is launching a data management platform developed by Salesforce and contact capabilities (phone calls, texts and emails) in collaboration with Amazon Web Service’s Amazon Connect. These organizations have already successfully implemented a large-scale contact tracing effort in Massachusetts.

For more information, visit www.CaliforniaConnected.ca.gov.

School Notes

Ensign Construction Update

The Ensign Intermediate School Drop-Off Lot construction plan will be discussed in a Zoom Thought Exchange review on Wednesday, May 27 from 6-7 p.m. 

The meeting will include an overview of the current construction plan and an opportunity for public input. 

The link to join is https://nmusd.zoom.us/j/91257375930. 

Graduation

NMUSD has contracted with Van Wagner Sports and Entertainment to broadcast its high school graduation ceremonies the week of June 15.

The Class of 2020 ceremony broadcasts will include a live broadcast of the master of ceremonies, guest speakers, a personalized photo/video montage of our graduating seniors, and presentation of diplomas. Students also will get a virtual copy of the ceremony as a keepsake of the graduation experience. 

Van Wagner Sports and Entertainment has worked with sports organizations and brands including the NFL, NHL, NCAA and NBA. They recently broadcasted the 2020 NFL Draft and the University of Southern California 2020 commencement ceremony.

2020/21 School Year Start

The Newport-Mesa Unified School District has confirmed Monday, Aug. 24 as the start of the 2020-21 school year. The District continues to work with the challenges of reopening schools due to coronavirus issues and has noted that guidance is being developed at the national, state and county levels.

Math Curriculum 

High school math instructional materials have been presented for community review prior to adoption. According to NMUSD the textbooks have been certified as being aligned with State Board of Education adopted content Standards

The Illustrative Mathematics (IM) high school materials are available through three IM certified publishers. 

According to the District website, “IM Certified curricula are rich, engaging core programs built around focus, coherence, and rigor. The curricula are trusted, expert-authored materials developed to equip all students to thrive in mathematics.

“IM Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 are problem-based core curricula rooted in content and practice standards to foster learning and achievement for all. Students learn by doing math, solving problems in mathematical and real-world contexts, and constructing arguments using precise language. 

“IM Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 lessons are designed with a focus on independent, group, and whole-class instruction, building mathematical understanding and fluency with all students.”

The review of the materials will close on Monday, June 8 at 5 p.m. 

Questions or concerns may be directed to John C. Drake, Director of K12 Curriculum & Instruction at 714.424.7533 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Newport Beach – A Look Back

Photo series courtesy of Balboa Island Museum & Historical Society

Click on photo for a larger image

Though long gone, Collins Castle is still iconic for some on Balboa Island. The two-story house was built on a small isolated Island (Collins Island) by William Collins as he was developing the island. This photograph was taken between 1930 and 1950.

Balboa Island Museum and the Museum Store are located at 210 B Marine Ave., Balboa Island. They are open Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday-Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For more information, call 949.675.3952, visit www.balboamuseum.org or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..