Breakers return home tomorrow with service “ace” Sam Querrey

The Orange County Breakers return to home action tomorrow evening at the Palisades Tennis Club at 7 p.m. versus the Las Vegas Rollers. The match will feature Sam Querrey, the No. 65 ranked player in the world.

Querrey, who stands 6’6” tall, holds the record for the most consecutive service aces ever in a match with 10.

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OC Breakers’ Sam Querrey

Following tomorrow’s match, two more home matches are scheduled – one on Monday, July 29 versus the Orlando Storm and then the team closes out its season at home on Wednesday, July 31, against the Washington Kastles.

The Breakers will also play away matches, tonight in San Diego against the Aviators, then Tuesday, July 30 against the Springfield Lasers.

The Breakers are attempting to qualify for playoffs that will begin Friday, August 2, in Las Vegas at the Orleans Arena for the league’s top four teams. The championship match will be played Saturday, Aug. 3.

You Must Remember This: a reminder of our agricultural roots

By NANCY GARDNER

Think of the area between Newport Beach and Santa Ana. Eliminate UCI and the City of Irvine. Remove the freeways and parks. Erase the jets at JWA, and return it to an airstrip for small planes, so low key that drag races are held there on Sunday. Reduce MacArthur to a rambling road. You now have a lot of open space which, at one time, was all farm land. Much of it was farmed by John Hubbard who leased the land from the Irvine Company. He wasn’t simply a farmer, however. He was a dirt farmer, according to my father. Since my father was the source of all knowledge, I hardly dared question him, but this particular clarification seemed redundant (if I had known the word). “All farmers are dirt farmers,” I pointed out. “Everything grows in dirt.” This I knew, because my father had a vegetable garden in our small backyard, right next to the clothesline. He further clarified. A dirt farmer didn’t irrigate his crops. Ah, so. From then on...in my mind it was always Mr. Hubbard, Dirt Farmer.

The reason I knew Mr. Hubbard, Dirt Farmer, was that I played with his daughter, Suzie. The reason we played together was because we lived two blocks from each other. This will be surprising, but there was a time when parents figured children could amuse themselves. This meant parents didn’t make play dates and didn’t drive their children all over the place to interact with other children. Because of this, childhood friendships tended to be formed on the basis of proximity, rather than shared interests, which is how I became friends with Suzie.

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Courtesy of Nancy Gardner

(L-R) Nancy Gardner with her little sister Patty peeking out, and Suzie Hubbard

I was completely into horses, and she wasn’t, but we were within easy walking distance of each other, so we became friends. Suzie liked dolls, so when I went to her house, I would usually bring a storybook doll. These were small dolls, about five inches tall, with ornate dresses, and were a popular gift for little girls. I mention the gift aspect because I never asked for dolls, storybook or otherwise. I always asked for horse statues, but some people gave me dolls anyway, so I had several. However, when I went to Suzie’s with my doll, I would also take one of my horse statues so we could work an equine angle into whatever plot line we came up with that day. Then my family moved to Shore Cliffs. That put an end to proximity to Suzie, and since neither of us felt strongly enough about the other to walk the much greater distance, our friendship faded away. Since we went to the same middle and high schools, we remained congenial, but we ran in different circles, and after graduation I lost all contact until 1985 when Jon Hubbard, Suzie’s younger brother, opened the Irvine Ranch Market in Fashion Island.

Using his father as a supplier, Jon started a produce stand in the mid-sixties.  It was on Myford Road, and he ran it during his summer breaks from college.  The stand was so successful that he built upon it, eventually establishing a small chain of upscale markets. As a competitor said, “Jon was one of the first to realize maturing and increasingly affluent baby boomers would buy high quality fruits, vegetables and meat at higher prices.” And it wasn’t just high quality products he wanted to provide. He wanted to provide a high quality shopping experience. Compared to the average supermarket of the day, his stores were positively opulent. In 1985, he brought Irvine Ranch Market to Newport Beach with a $4 million, 63,000-square-foot operation on the bottom floor of the Fashion Island atrium. I remember the opening. I don’t know why I was there – probably my father had been invited and I tagged along – but it was quite impressive, with all of the wonderful produce and everything else. Of course the Hubbard family was there, so I went up and said hello to Suzie, and then, much to my surprise,  Jon came up and said hello. I didn’t expect him to recognize me, a long-ago friend of his sister’s. About all the contact we’d ever had was something along the lines of, “Go away, Jon. Stop bothering us.” Never the less, he remembered, and it was interesting to see him after all those years – confident, successful – a far cry from the kid we used to shoo away – which is maybe why he spoke to me, just to underline the difference.

Jon certainly had his finger on the pulse of grocery shoppers. The Irvine Ranch Markets, all 11 of them, were very popular. Unfortunately, only one turned a steady profit, primarily because of high lease rates and too much debt in the construction of the markets. In 1988, the company filed for bankruptcy, most of the stores were closed, and about a year later the company itself was sold. The name still lives, however. Irvine Ranch Market seems to be thriving on Irvine Avenue, successful enough that it is taking over the old Hershey’s Market on Balboa Island. Even if Jon is no longer associated with it, it’s nice that the Irvine Ranch Market name remains, reminding us of our agricultural roots, even if they have been paved over.

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Nancy Gardner, former Mayor of Newport Beach, long-time resident and daughter of Judge Robert Gardner, is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

OC Restaurateur David Wilhelm opens Tavern House Kitchen + Bar 

By EMILY SPAIN

You may have noticed that the former 3-Thirty-3 restaurant off Pacific Coast Highway has a new name and changing facade. Thanks to OC restaurateurs David Wilhelm and Gregg Solomon, your new favorite spot – Tavern House Kitchen + Bar – has taken over.

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Courtesy of Tavern House Kitchen + Bar

Renowned restaurateur David Wilhelm welcomes all to Tavern House Kitchen + Bar

Wilhelm and Solomon were also behind former OC restaurants like Kachina, Bistro 201 and French 75. After a few years of pursuing individual projects, the duo teamed back up to create Tavern House Kitchen + Bar, which Wilhelm hopes will become the “local go-to place with its world-class location and straightforward food.” After continuing to operate 3-Thirty-3 for a period of time, Wilhelm and Solomon were able to convert the space into Tavern House in just two weeks. The upgraded interior features dark wood paneling and navy accented furniture giving the space an intimate and comfortable ambience to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

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Photo by Emily Spain

Harbor views from the covered patio dining room

With bay front views and mouthwatering dishes and drinks, Tavern House is a feast for the senses. If you are stopping by for one of their Skinny Maggie drinks or for dinner, Tavern House’s menu has something for everyone. Wilhelm says the menu embodies the Golden Triangle of cuisine: Cabo, Hawaii and Southern California with dishes such as Ahi Poke, Bourbon BBQ Oysters and Prime Rib Dip. Compared to Wilhelm’s past restaurant ventures, Tavern House’s menu will feature more seafood dishes like San Francisco-style Cioppino and Wilhelm’s personal favorite, The Red Snapper “Veracruzana.”

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Courtesy of Tavern House Kitchen + Bar

Red Snapper “Veracruzana” is Wilhelm’s personal favorite dish

Although Tavern House opened last week, the menu already has a star item: The Tavern Buttermilk Fried Chicken. It is the same craveable fried chicken recipe Wilhelm introduced more than 25 years ago at Sorrento Grille in Laguna Beach and is continually featured at his other restaurants. For weekend brunch, the fried chicken is complemented with malted waffles, bacon and thyme gravy. 

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Courtesy of Tavern House Kitchen + Bar

Tavern House Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Tavern House Kitchen + Bar is the perfect spot for birthday parties, celebrations and taking visitors to for delicious and scenic drinks and bites to eat. Currently, Tavern House located at 333 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, is open for dinner, weekend brunch from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and weekday happy hour from 3-6 p.m. Reservations are encouraged, however, walk-ins are welcome. To make reservations or check out the menu, visit www.tavernhousekb.com.

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Photo by Emily Spain

Tavern House Kitchen + Bar located off PCH and Bayside Drive

Mexico’s celebrated children’s music artist to grace the Samueli Theater stage

Acclaimed children’s music artist Sonia De Los Santos opens the 2019-2020 Family Series at Segerstrom Center for the Arts September 21 and 22 in Samueli Theater with varying performance times.

Born in Monterrey, Mexico and described as “one of the Latin Children’s music artists you should know” by Billboard, De Los Santos performs positive, multicultural music that delights and engages families. Singing in both English and Spanish, her messages of joyful community music-making and cultural bridge-building inspire and excite children and grown-ups of all backgrounds. 

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Photo by Krysta Brayer

Courtesy of scfta.org

Children’s music artist Sonia De Los Santos

Her songs are inspired by various Latin American rhythms hailing from Mexico, Colombia and Peru, as well as the North American folk traditions that reflect her experiences growing up in Mexico and moving to another country, learning about other cultures, and, in the process, feeling closer to her own heritage.

Tickets are $20 and are available online at www.scfta.org, at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa, or by calling 714.556.2787. Group discounts for groups of 10 or more are available at 714.755.0236. 

Audiences are encouraged to arrive one hour before the performance for free creative activities. The Center’s Education Department offers these enriching experiences to provide young people and their families with more opportunities to play together creatively. Studies show that this is critical in helping to develop the ability to think and problem solve.

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

John Cusack – Say Anything has been canceled at Segerstrom Center

Segerstrom Center for the Arts has announced that John Cusack – Say Anything on Friday, Aug. 23 has been canceled due to scheduling challenges. A new date has not yet been planned.

Ticket holders will be refunded their original purchase or may accept a credit toward a future purchase. For more information, call the Center’s Box Office at 714.556.2787.

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

Find out what attendees are saying about the OC Fair along with helpful “getting there” tips

The OC Fair is an event that is enjoyable for people young and old, from all backgrounds. But what is it about the Fair that people find so enticing?

The Fair shared what guests loved about their experiences – and why they keep coming back year after year. Here are some of their answers:

Cindy: I love the energy here and the people are just great and everyone is really happy. The food’s good, the entertainment’s spectacular and the weather is just incredible, and it’s really nice to be here today.

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Photos courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center

Spectacular entertainment keeps fairgoers coming back

Peggy and Don: This is always a great place to come. The weather is beautiful, all the good food and we like to come to a concert. We make it pretty much every year.

Kathy: I love the concerts that they have here – I’d come back to see three or four more shows.

Cynthia and Sky: We love coming to the fair to see concerts, eat, have a good time, walk around, people-watch, go on rides and play games, and try all the new foods.

Sal: We come out to see the animals. It’s something interesting that you get to see. In Southern California, where we live, you don’t really get to see that many of the animals.

Larry: I grew up in a farm in Ohio and so I love all the agriculture and the animals. I just love going out and seeing them all, staring at them, reading about them, learning about them.

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Photos courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center

The piggies are always a crowd pleaser

Olive: I like to come to the fair because there’s a lot of my favorite stuff here, like cotton candy and popcorn.

Priscilla: What I like about the fair are the butterflies.

Audrey: My favorite part of the fair is the massage – and the pony rides.

Rinah: I love the food and the rides and just coming every year and seeing everything. There’s always something to see and it’s fun. 

If you are planning on going to the Fair, here are some helpful “getting there” tips:

–Traffic advisory: Plan to arrive early, especially for OC Fair ticketed events, including concerts. Ride-hailing services, public transportation, carpooling, OC Fair Express bus (Saturday and Sunday) and free offsite parking at Experian (Saturday and Sunday) are highly recommended.

–The OC Fair Express buses depart from nine locations on Saturdays and Sundays during the Fair and run from approximately 10 a.m.-12 a.m. If riding Metrolink, riders can show their valid Metrolink ticket and ride the bus for free. OC Fair Express costs $2 each way, or 75 cents for seniors 60+ and persons with disabilities. Riders of the OC Fair Express will receive a coupon for $4 OC Fair admission. For details, visit www.ocfairexpress.com.

Free parking and shuttle service is available on Saturdays and Sundays from the Experian parking structure at 475 Anton Blvd., located off the Bristol Street exit of the 405 Freeway. The shuttle operates from 10 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday and Sunday only.

The taxi, Uber and Lyft drop-off/pick-up site is located on the corner of Arlington and Fairview at the OCC parking lot. This is across the street from Gate 3 and the Green Gate admission booth.

If you do drive, check the latest traffic and 405 Project updates on Google Maps and Waze. Full construction updates are available on the OCTA website and OCTA’s interactive map.

The 2019 OC Fair continues through August 11 and offers days and nights of entertainment, food, rides, shopping, exhibits and more. Hours are 12 p.m-12 a.m., Wednesdays through Fridays, and 11 a.m-12 a.m., Saturdays and Sundays. 

For more information, visit www.ocfair.com.

NBPD is conducting “Know Your Limit” education program tonight

Today, Friday, July 26, the Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD) will have officers out at local bars and restaurants to educate the public on how important it is to “know your limit.”

The “Know Your Limit” program is intended to inform the public on how little it takes to reach the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC), which is .08 percent in all states but Utah, where the BAC is .05 percent.

The campaign will be from 6-10 p.m. in Newport Beach. During this time, officers will invite volunteers to take a breathalyzer test to see if they can guess their BAC. Those participating are asked how many drinks they had and whether they believe they are safe to drive. Following the test, officers will educate those out drinking on the impacts of alcohol on one’s ability to drive, and the consequences of a DUI.

“The goal is to help people understand the effects of alcohol so they can make smart decisions about how they get home after a night of drinking,” NBPD Sergeant Little said. “It only takes a few drinks to impair, and that’s why it is so critical that people know when not to drive.”

A person’s height, weight, food intake, drug and/or medication use and how much they drink over a time period are all factors that affect BAC. According to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, it takes two drinks consumed within one hour by a 120-pound woman and four drinks by a 180-pound man to be at the legal limit. One drink is based on 1.5 oz. of liquor (40 percent alcohol), 12 oz. of beer (4.5 percent alcohol) or a 5 oz. glass of wine (12 percent alcohol). The body lowers your BAC at a rate of .015 percent every hour.

The average cost of a DUI arrest is approximately $13,500, accounting for vehicle impound fees, fines, attorney fees, auto insurance hikes and other penalties. Plan ahead and avoid risking a DUI by designating a sober driver.

Funding for the “Know Your Limit” program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Sol Mexican Cocina’s Chef Deb wins Guy’s Grocery Games, takes home $20,000

Our Newport Beach restaurateur, Sol Mexican Cocina’s Chef Deborah Schneider, won the “ABC Games” battle on Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games, airing Wednesday, July 24 at 9 p.m. She beat out three male chefs with her victorious win. The judges were renowned chefs Beau MacMillan, Richard Blais and Antonia Lofaso. 

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Photos courtesy of Food Network

Sol Mexican Cocina’s Chef Deborah Schneider wins the “ABC Games” battle on “Guy’s Grocery Games” 

Here’s the breakdown of the show and what Chef Deb did, with each of the three rounds relegating the contestants to use ingredients starting with only one letter of the alphabet that host Guy Fieri chose, then making their own interpretations of the meal selection they’re given.

Round 1: The letter “C” to make an Ultimate Comfort Classic. Chef Deb made Queso Fundido with two types of cheeses and chorizo, topped with fried corn tortilla strips with a salsa of Campari tomatoes and cipollini onions. She beat out the other three chefs, two of who made their versions of macaroni and cheese with crab (Keith and Michael) and Alex who fried catfish and placed it atop creamed corn. “Deborah’s dish is ready to be on a menu that earns a James Beard award,” Blais commented. Chef Keith checks out.

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 (L-R) Chefs Keith Clinton, Deborah Schneider, Alex Eaton and Michael Lugo ready to face down in Flavortown Market

Round 2: The letter “S” to make the Best Seafood Dinner in “ABC Watch Your Weight” with contestants having to limit their ingredients’ combined weight to seven pounds. Chef Deb seared scallops atop salmon with seared shishito peppers and a sriracha, butter and red wine vinegar sauce with a side of fried sweet potato chips. Alex made grilled shrimp with salsa verde on top of a sunchoke puree with shishitos and a shitake mushroom/onion sauté, while Michael made saffron butter-basted scallops with braised Swiss chard. “The salmon is very still tender, moist and flavorful,” said MacMillan, commenting on Chef Deb’s dish. Chef Michael checks out.

Round 3: “What we have here is the Southern chef vs. the Southern California restaurateur,” Fieri said. And the letter is “B.” “For this challenge, I want you to make the Ultimate Fried Dinner. This is a ‘B’ for Budget Battle,” said Fieri, who rolled varying dollar amount disks...the nearest landing to the contestants was their shopping budget...$23. The two words that pop into Chef Deb’s head is beer and batter...so it’s beer-battered bacon and beef (steak). Brussels sprouts and basil (which she’ll fry) and a bunch of beets for beet chips she can also fry to round out the dish. Her shopping tab comes to $26.11. She puts back one of the cans of beer and half of the sprouts which now totals $22.64 and she’s off cooking. Alex chooses to make a country fried beef and bacon burger with fried rice and broccoli with a black bean vinaigrette, with ingredients for $18.50. Commenting on Chef Deb’s dish, Lofaso said the “beer-battered bacon is genius,” but thought it was lacking sauce. Blaise thought with so much sweetness in the beets it acted like a red wine sauce. And Chef Deb wins GGG All ABC Games...then goes shopping to gather all five ingredients on the list to win $20,000 with a photo finish!

 “If I win, I am going to donate some of the money to Home Boy, Home Girl Industries in Los Angeles,” said Chef Deb, who would also like to use some of the money to visit France. “I just won $20,000 because I know my ABC’s. You know what that means? I will always be cooking,” she quipped.

Sol Mexican Cocina is located at 251 Pacific Coast Highway, Newport Beach. For more information, visit www.solcocina.com.

NBPD warn public about the dangers of leaving children in hot cars

The inside of a vehicle is much warmer than it is outside, increasing the risk of heat stroke for children left inside for even short periods of time.

Outside of crashes, vehicular heatstroke is the leading cause of vehicle-related deaths among children. It is why the Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD) is reminding parents, babysitters and anyone who cares for children to avoid leaving them alone in a hot car.

Last year, 52 children in the United States were killed as a result of being left in a hot car, a 21 percent increase from 2017 and the highest number in more than 20 years. More than half of all vehicle-related heatstroke deaths in children are caused when a parent or caregiver forgets they are in the car.

The temperature inside of a car can rise nearly 20 degrees in just 10 minutes and children are more prone to heatstroke because their body temperatures rise much faster than adults.

“Whether your child is fussy and doesn’t want to leave the car or is sleeping, it is important that you take them with you,” NBPD Sergeant Little said. “Even in temperatures under 80 degrees, the inside of a car can reach triple digits in half an hour.”

To avoid tragedy and a lifetime of pain, the NBPD is encouraging parents and others who care for children to take extra precautions to make sure a child is not left in the back seat or gets into a hot car:

–Make it a habit to look before your leave and lock the car. Put a stuffed animal, purse, phone or wallet next to the car seat as a reminder.

–Always lock your car and keep the keys out of the reach of children. Teach your child that a car is not a play area.

If you see a child in a hot vehicle that appears to be in pain or unresponsive, call 911 immediately. Try to find the parents or notify businesses in the area to use a PA system to alert the car owner.

Orange County Community Foundation awards nearly $150,000 in support of the arts

The Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF) has granted $146,000 to 30 local nonprofit organizations dedicated to the enrichment of arts and culture programs and arts education. Funding will support programming, venue repairs to performing arts venues, education and workshops, youth scholarships and music camps.

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Orange County School of the Arts is among the grantees

“In partnership with our generous donors, we are proud to support these organizations as they foster a diverse array of arts and cultural programs in Orange County,” said Shelley Hoss, president, OCCF. “From performing arts and music to historic cultural landmarks, these programs are enriching the lives of our youth and strengthening our entire community.”

Among the grant recipients are All American Boys Choir, KidWorks, Orange County School of the Arts, Pacific Chorale, Pacific Symphony, Philharmonic Society of Orange County and South Coast Repertory.

Grants are awarded from The San Clemente History, Arts & Culture Fund, The Robert J. & Doreen D. Marshall Fund for Dramatic Arts and Classical Music and The Jane Deming Fund.

For more information on OCCF, located at 4041 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach, visit www.oc-cf.org.

Save the Date: NMUSD State of the Schools Breakfast is on October 2

Mark your calendar for Wednesday, Oct. 2, when the Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) will present the State of the Schools Breakfast.

The event will take place at Estancia High School beginning at 7 a.m.

Estancia High School is located at 2323 Placentia Ave., Costa Mesa.

Palm tree perspective

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Photo by Stan Sievers (Instagram @stansievers)

“On the beach, you can live in bliss.” –Dennis Wilson

Nashville Gold to appear at OASIS Summer Concerts in the Courtyard on Friday

Mosey on down to the OASIS Senior Center on Friday, July 26 from 5:30-7 p.m., when Nashville Gold (Country Tribute) belts out their tunes during the last Summer Concert in the Courtyard series.

Tickets are $10 and sell out fast. Bring your own low-slung beach chairs and blankets. A boxed dinner is included with the price of a ticket. Beer and wine are for sale. No outside alcohol is allowed. The event is for 21+. Attendees will be let in based on their ticket number. 

Call 949.644.3244 or stop by the administration office to purchase your tickets.

OASIS Senior Center is located at 801 Narcissus Ave., Corona del Mar.

For a calendar of upcoming OASIS Senior Center events, visit our Calendars section here.

Hoag presents roadmap for addressing Alzheimer’s disease at international conference

Many causes of memory loss are treatable and even preventable. The key is early primary care involvement, according to findings presented at the 2019 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC).

Researchers and physicians from the Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute at Hoag presented several posters at this year’s annual conference, the largest and most influential international meeting dedicated to advancing Alzheimer’s science, highlighting compelling data from Hoag’s Orange County Vital Brain Aging Program (OCVBAP) that shows the benefit of early detection to stave off cognitive impairment and the dementia of Alzheimer’s disease.

 “This represents a shifting attention from Alzheimer’s chronic care to prevention,” said William R. Shankle, M.S., M.D., F.A.C.P., The Judy & Richard Voltmer Endowed Chair and director of the Memory and Cognitive Disorders program at the Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute at Hoag. “What you do in your mid-age affects what happens in your brain in your 70s and 80s.”

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Dr. William Shankle

Alzheimer’s disease affects 5.8 million people in the United States. Worldwide, an estimated 44 million suffer from the disease. The AAIC brings together leading researchers from 70 countries to share methods of prevention and treatment and improvements in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

The OCVBAP, a multi-disciplinary program involving researchers, community leaders, health care educators and physicians, has been involved for nearly a decade in promoting early detection of memory loss and cognitive impairment as well as the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.

Hoag’s study was based on published guidelines for preventing Alzheimer’s or dementia, and targets both the public as well as health care professionals. The public outreach included education seminars, an online education web portal, and tools for self-identification of risk factors.

It also includes a pathway for self-referred, confidential in-person cognitive assessments. These assessments are conducted by trained OCVBAP personnel in community settings.

“We’ve seen younger people taking part in the assessments because they are interested in prevention and want to take action,” Dr. Shankle said. “They have seen their parents’ or their grandparents’ decline, and they are scared. The stigma of Alzheimer’s is going away gradually. They are ready to do something.”

One troubling aspect of Hoag’s study, however, was that researchers found that primary care physicians were not always well informed enough to help. Nearly a quarter (24 percent) of all participants in the study were found to be in an impaired range, meaning that their conditions had gone unnoticed or unmentioned by their physicians.

“These people have either never brought up their concerns to their physicians, or their physicians said, ‘Don’t worry, you’re just getting old,’” he said.

That is why another critical component of the program is the education of primary care physicians (PCPs) to act as a first line of defense against Alzheimer’s disease.

“We found that by training PCPs to identify risk factors and early symptoms of cognitive impairment, we are able to help guide doctors to detect Alzheimer’s disease in its earliest, most manageable state,” said Dr. Shankle. “Educating physicians also helps patients rule out Alzheimer’s and dementia in cases where the underlying cause of cognitive impairment turns out to be something else, such as poor sleep, stress or depression.”

The Hoag study also highlights the importance of diet, exercise and social activity in delaying or preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms.

“We call these ‘below the neck conditions,’ such as high blood pressure, heart disease,” Dr. Shankle said. “We heavily encourage them to take part in social activities and hobbies and to speak to their primary care physicians to get their medical conditions under control.”

To further promote the important role PCPs play in brain health, Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute is hosting internationally renowned cognitive neurologist and clinician-researcher Alireza Atri, M.D., Ph.D., as the keynote speaker for the Neurosciences Symposium on September 13 to speak with physicians about the best clinical practice guidelines for evaluation of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. His presentation will provide an overview of the aims, processes and recommendations to help physicians better recognize the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and develop a shared care plan with their patients to delay onset.

Reflecting the recent findings from the “Alzheimer’s Detection in the Primary Care Setting: Connecting Patients and Physicians,” Dr. Shankle encourages patients to speak to their physicians if they are concerned and for physicians to routinely ask about cognitive health.

“What we found was the PCP’s attitude is basically, ‘If something is happening, the patient will bring it up.’ Meanwhile, the patient is thinking, ‘If this is so important, my doctor will ask me about it,’” he said. “In Alzheimer’s, early detection can lead to treatments and interventions that delay the onset of the disease’s worst symptoms. That is why these conversations are so important.”

OCMA to present six new exhibits highlighting issues with the natural world

The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) will present six new exhibitions of works by artists from the Pacific Rim, all of which consider the complexities of our relationship to the natural world. On view from September 21, 2019 through March 15, 2020, the exhibitions showcase a diverse group of artists – Carolina Caycedo (United States/Colombia), Daniel Duford (United States), Ximena Garrido-Lecca (Peru), Mulyana (Indonesia), Robert Zhao Renhui (Singapore) and Yang Yongliang (China) – whose work highlights a range of issues that relate to how humans are a part of, and interact with, nature.

Caycedo, Duford and Garrido-Lecca look to indigenous perspectives that take a long view of history and value preservation over short-sighted capitalist gain. Yongliang emphasizes the effects of industrialization on the Chinese landscape, Mulyana focuses on coral reefs as a barometer for climate change and the fragility of ocean ecosystems, and Zhao Renhui examines the vulnerability of the natural world and the value of insects to the health of our planet.

“For many, climate change is the single most pressing concern of our age,” said Todd D. Smith, OCMA’s director and CEO. “As we continue to explore through our exhibitions what it means to be citizens of the Pacific region, we cannot ignore the environmental changes that are affecting our communities. To help us understand these changes, we have invited a cross-section of artists who chronicle and examine both the conditions that are altering our natural world and the impact these shifts are having on our relationships.”

A closer look at the exhibitions:

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Photos courtesy of OCMA

Carolina Caycedo’s “Wanaawna, Rio Hondo and Other Spirits”

Carolina Caycedo: Wanaawna, Rio Hondo and Other Spirits, curated by Cassandra Coblentz, OCMA senior curator and director of public engagement. Wanaawna, Rio Hondo and Other Spirits expands Caycedo’s Water Portraits series (ongoing since 2015) in which photographs of rivers and waterfalls are mirrored, altered and remixed as printed fabric works, still images and videos. The resulting imagery conjures bodies of water as living entities and as active political agents in environmental conflicts, rather than as resources for humans to exploit.

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Daniel Duford’s “Underworld Stories Told in Tree Time”

Daniel Duford: Underworld Stories Told in Tree Time, curated by Cassandra Coblentz. For the exhibition Underworld Stories Told in Tree Time, Duford looks to Gary Snyder’s poem “The Way West, Underground” to explore new narratives about our relationship to the natural world. Snyder’s poem tracks a mythological Black Bear across time and space from Oregon to Asia then northern Europe and finally down to Neolithic caves. The bear travels counter-clockwise, a symbolic move that rejects a Eurocentric lens and trajectory of conquering territory in order to control resources. Duford portrays the Earth as a living entity with the power to regenerate and survive over time.

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Ximena Garrido-Lecca’s “Spectrums of Reference”

Ximena Garrido-Lecca: Spectrums of Reference, curated by Cassandra Coblentz. Garrido-Lecca explores the impact of natural resource exploitation on different social groups and cultures, with a particular interest in how industrialization and urbanization have historically affected the relationship between nature and culture. Increasingly, nature is considered to be in the service of science and technology, reduced to a mere object, as opposed to an ancient conception of nature as a living force. In her work, she blurs the boundaries between nature and culture by creating synthetic objects made from natural resources.

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Mulyana’s “A Man, A Monster and The Sea”

Mulyana: A Man, A Monster and The Sea, curated by guest curator John Silvis. This is Mulyana’s debut exhibition in the U.S., comprising three immersive environments that depict oceanic life. His large, visually kinetic installations are comprised of intricately constructed modules of organic shapes that coalesce into vividly colored clusters of abstract forms. The soft forms appear bound together by an invisible force as they occupy the floor, wall and ceiling. He re-purposes yarn and employs diverse communities of knitters in Indonesia, considering the act of knitting and crocheting as a form of meditation and prayer.

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Robert Zhao Renhui’s “Effect”

Robert Zhao Renhui: Effect, curated by guest curator John Silvis. Zhao Renhui’s debut museum exhibition in the U.S. features two bodies of work that highlight the ubiquitous presence of flies and butterflies in our environment. Inspired by scientific methods of categorizing fly types, he appropriates scientific tools to explore the boundaries, systems and methods humans use to control fly populations, stemming from a dismissive attitude that belies their necessity. While the fly is seen as a nuisance, the Monarch butterfly, on the other hand, is seen as a beautiful creature; it is a symbol of transformation. In Effect, suspended fly traps and lures reflect Zhao Renhui’s fascination with the countless devices and methodologies invented by humans to exterminate insects.

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Yang Yongliang’s “Eternal Landscape”

Yang Yongliang: Eternal Landscape, curated by guest curator Melanie Ouyang Lum. Yongliang’s practice is rooted in his deep respect and reverence for Chinese art history, specifically classical Chinese landscape paintings (shanshui). The landscapes in this school of thought are landscapes of the mind – contemplative compositions in which the Chinese literati (scholar/artist/court official) would imbue their ideologies into images of mountains, rivers and trees. He grew up in Shanghai in an era of rapid urbanization and, while a student of tradition, he also embraced new media to make sense of the changing world around him.

OCMAEXPAND-SANTA ANA, located in South Coast Plaza Village at 1661 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, is the museum’s temporary venue while it builds its Thom Mayne-designed new home at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Admission to and parking are free. Hours of operationa are Thursday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 

For more information, visit www.ocmaexpand.org.

Nature Gardening Series comes to Roger’s Gardens on Saturday

The Nature Gardening Series – The Best California Friendly Gardens is taking place on Saturday, July 27 from 9-10 a.m. at Roger’s Gardens.

Come celebrate some of the best California Friendly Gardens in Orange County. Join Roger’s Gardens General Manager Ron Vanderhoff for a fully illustrated program. Now in its 11th year, the California Friendly Garden Contest has been acknowledging and rewarding the most beautiful and innovative gardens and gardeners in Orange County.

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A succulent garden is colorful while being drought tolerant

California Friendly gardens are in sync with nature, they use less resources, provide more habitat and are friendlier to the earth than any other garden. This program will show numerous photos of contestant entries and winners, with discussion about the plants, designs and features of the gardens.

If you are thinking about removing the lawn, boxwoods or agapanthus, this might just be the inspiration you need. This event is free.

Roger’s Gardens is located at 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar. For more information, visit www.rogersgardens.com.

For a calendar of upcoming Home & Garden happenings, visit our Calendars section here.

Unleash your inner kid at the OC Fair 

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Courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center

Love is in the air at the OC Fair

You do not have to be a kid to enjoy the magic and fun of the OC Fair. If you are looking for ways to have some grown-up fun, the OC Fair has a plethora of options to explore. First, check out live bands at The Hangar. Tribute bands like Queen Nation (Queen tribute) and Devotional (Depeche Mode tribute) will help you rock out and take you back in time. Also, drop by other live shows like hypnotist Mark Yuzuik’s nightly shows at the Heritage Stage at 6:15 p.m., 8:15 p.m. and 10:15 p.m.

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Courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center

Live band performing at The Hangar 

Enjoy the many adult beverage stands like the Craft Bar or Hussong’s Cantina. Keep feeding your taste buds at one of the seminars in the Culinary Arts building and try making your own sushi or cheesecake. 

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Photo by Emily Spain

Pick up a few culinary tips and tricks at the culinary seminars 

Due to the popularity of the Fair, getting to the fairgrounds and finding parking can be difficult. However, ride-hailing services and carpooling can make a huge difference. The taxi, Uber and Lyft drop-off/pick-up site is located on the corner of Arlington and Fairview at the OCC parking lot. After getting dropped off, just walk across the street to the Fair and enjoy. Free parking and shuttle service are available Saturdays and Sundays from the Experian parking structure at 475 Anton Blvd. For OC Fair Express bus service, visit www.ocfairexpress.com.

OC Fair & Event Center is located at 88 Fair Drive Costa Mesa. The 2019 OC Fair runs through August 11 and offers 23 days and nights of entertainment, food, rides, shopping, exhibits and more. Hours are 12 p.m.-12 a.m. on Wednesdays through Fridays, and 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. 

For more information, visitwww.ocfair.com.

Orange County Bee Keepers seeks volunteers

If you love bees and truly appreciate their contribution as the world’s most important pollinator of food crops, the Orange County Bee Keepers Association invites you to volunteer at their booth at the OC Fair this week and weekend.

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The association is need of volunteers for the following shifts: July 24 from 6:30 p.m.-close (3 people), July 25 from 6:30 p.m.-close (2 people), July 26 from 6:30 p.m.-close (2 people), July 27 from 2-6 p.m. (2 people) and 5:30 p.m.-close (3 people), and July 28 from 5:30 p.m.-close (2 people). 

To sign up for a shift, visit www.ocbeekeepers.org.

Movies on the Beach to show Dr. Strangelove this Thursday

On Thursday, July 25 from 8-10 p.m., join Crystal Cove Conservancy for Movies on the Beach and enjoy the favorite historic film Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb, in Crystal Cove State Park’s Historic District.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Movies on the Beach is showing “Dr. Strangelove” on the sand 

Movie Synopsis: The story concerns an unhinged United States Air Force general who orders a first strike nuclear attack on the Soviet Union. It follows the President of the United States, his advisors, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and a Royal Air Force (RAF) officer as they try to recall the bombers to prevent a nuclear apocalypse. Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the film stars Peter Sellers and George C. Scott

Starting at 8 p.m., the movie will be shown on the beach outside Beaches Cottage #13 and is free to the public with a $15 State Park day-use fee. Bring blankets, beach chairs, and a picnic to enjoy with your family! No alcohol is allowed on the beach at Crystal Cove State Park. There will also be a historic snack shop with popcorn and candy for sale.

Michael Chang and Kei Nishikori compete for charity at Newport Beach Tennis Club

On Saturday, July 20, the 9th Annual Michael Chang Tennis Classic (MCTC) featured world champion tennis players Michael Chang and Kei Nishikori, competing in a World Class Doubles Pro Exhibition to raise funds for HomeAid Orange County and the Chang Family Foundation. Chang became the youngest male player to win a Grand Slam singles title when he won the French Open in 1989 at 17. Nishikori is currently ranked the No. 7 professional tennis player worldwide. Chang has served as Nishikori’s coach since 2014.

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Photos courtesy of Michael Chang Tennis Classic

(L-R) Michael Chang, Mark Fujita, Kei Nishikori and Karl Hashimoto

The event, held at the Newport Beach Tennis Club, also included the professional exhibition match as well as a USC vs. UCLA undercard match and top sponsor tennis. 

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Photos courtesy of Michael Chang Tennis Classic

(L-R) Kei Nishikori and 8-year-old Lani Chang (Michael’s daughter) at the net

“We are very proud to support HomeAid, which is devoted to building new lives for homeless families and individuals in Orange County through housing and community outreach,” Michael Chang said. “The Chang Family Foundation is an extension of the Chang family’s faith leading them to serve people in need and giving them hope for a better tomorrow.”

The expo and tennis tournament raised approximately $130,000 for charity.

Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Library opens to kudos, Boyles assumes control and racing on the bay has plenty of winners

Saturday’s grand opening celebration of the Corona del Mar Fire Station and Library was just that, a wonderful community celebration. 

The library was beautiful. Everything is new. Furniture, desks, shelves and books, to be exact. 

Next door, the fire station was opened with the “push in” of an engine into one of the two apparatus bays by the firefighters.

It was a nice who’s who of Newport Beach in attendance. Surprisingly, even former City Councilman Scott Peotter made an appearance. Why is that surprising? Peotter tried to kill the project in its early stages, to no avail.

Kudos to Scott’s replacement, Joy Brenner, for her determination in seeing the project all the way through.

• • •

Speaking of the fire department, congratulations were in store for outgoing Fire Chief Chip Duncan, whose service of 32 years to Newport Beach ended yesterday.

Also, congratulations were offered to new incoming chief Jeff Boyles. Of course, Boyles’ congrats were contingent upon tonight’s City Council approval of his new employment agreement. That item is on tonight’s City Council agenda and should just be a formality. As was obvious, everyone loves Boyles.

• • •

It’s arguably the biggest local sailing race of the year. Or at least that’s what the BYC’s Brett Hemphill would have you believe. No, it’s not the Newport to Ensenada, it’s not the GovCup and it’s not the Transpac. It is, of course, the Flight of Newport, formerly the Flight of the Lasers.

You see, Hemphill likes to sail Lasers.

This past Sunday two classes squared off on our bay. The first being the Laser fleet. Congrats to Christian Rosene for winning the race, followed in order by Mike Arrigo, Philip Gautschi, Steve Rados and Tom Doyle. Hemphill, b-t-w, finished sixth.

In the Harbor 20 fleet, Robert Kinney and Alex Curtis prevailed, followed by Justin Law and Ailenn McCue in second, third went to John Drayton and Brenda Benter, John Pickney and Bill Menninger finished fourth and George and Lurline Twist finished fifth.

Other awards were handed out as follows: Youngest Girl participating – Piper Blackband; Youngest Boy – Wyatt Atkins; Oldest Skipper – Dave Tingler; First Married Couple to finish – Doug & Beth Raff; and the Triumph through Adversity award – Cooper Blackband.

• • •

Some of the best money Newport Beach spends goes to former mayor and now John Wayne Airport Agreement guru Tom Edwards for his consulting services. An agreement between the city and Edwards will also be voted on tonight hiring him to continue in his efforts.

This should be a no-brainer by our council, as Edwards remains one of the smartest guys in the room on this conversation.

• • •

Here’s an interesting agenda item tonight before council. Cities receive annual allocations of monetary credits to have unattractive overhead wires in neighborhoods undergrounded. Well, with the city of Newport Beach in a strong financial position, we’ll vote to acquire some of these credits from other cities to further enhance our undergrounding. The hope is to buy them at a discount.

This evening we’ll vote to purchase credits from Laguna Woods, Lynwood and Mission Viejo.

The program itself is financed by the ratepayers under the Public Purpose Program.

• • •

If you’re planning to attend the Newport Beach Restaurant Association Business Improvement District Board meeting tomorrow, please note the change of plans. The meeting has been pushed back to Wednesday, July 31, at 9:30 a.m., at the Newport Beach & Co./Visit Newport Beach offices at 1600 Newport Center Drive.

They’ll return to their regular schedule in September.

CdM Library and Fire Station holds Grand Opening with fanfare

The City of Newport Beach held the grand opening of the Corona del Mar Branch Library and Fire Station with much fanfare on Saturday, July 20. Among those in attendance were Newport Beach Mayor Diane Dixon, outgoing Newport Beach Fire Chief Chip Duncan, incoming Fire Chief Jeff Boyles, city council members, firefighting personnel, current and past dignitaries including City Manager Grace Leung and former City Manager Dave Kiff, the library board of trustees including chair Janet Riddell Ray, Library Services Director Tim Hetherton and his staff, proclamation representatives from Harley Rouda’s and Cottie Petrie-Norris’ offices, Costa Mesa Mayor Katrina Foley and State Senator John Moorlach, and an outpouring of support from community residents – all to celebrate this highly momentous event. Mayor Dixon, who addressed the audience, harkened back to the fact that it was 50 years ago to the day that our astronauts first landed on the moon.

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Photo by Lana Johnson

The ribbon cutting celebrates the official opening of the new CdM Branch Library and Fire Station No. 5

The new 10,314-square-foot joint facility replaces two former buildings, the branch library and fire station, which were 60 and 70 years old, respectively. The new facility’s design was accomplished with input from community members, the Library Board of Trustees, the Library Services Department and the Fire Department. The City Council awarded contracts for the construction and construction-support services on February 27, 2018 for $8,333,000. Project construction began in April 2018 and according to Mayor Dixon, “The project was completed on schedule and within the approved budget.” She thanked Kiff, who was instrumental in moving the library plans forward; Fire Chief Duncan, who “shepherded the project,” and the commitment of the Library Services Department, Newport Beach Library Foundation and Public Works, among others.

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Some “future firefighters” get an up close view of the new fire station

Along with Mayor Dixon, other speakers included Director of Public Works Dave Webb who recognized the architect, Kelley Needham (WLC Architects), who was present; Newport Beach Board of Trustees Chair Janet Ray and City Councilwoman Joy Brenner, who was instrumental in forming the Friends of the Library CdM group and assisted in making the vision of the library a reality. Distinguished City Council Members present included Mayor Pro Tem Will O’Neill, Jeff Herdman, Brad Avery and Kevin Muldoon. 

Noteworthy was Fire Chief Duncan’s heartfelt remarks: “This is (library and fire station) the heart and soul of Corona del Mar. It is a testament to our city officials and it is a great send off for me.”

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Photo by Lana Johnson

Our Newport Beach firefighters stand proud in front of Station No. 5

Highlighting the festivities were the ribbon cutting, the fire engine push into the station with Mayor Dixon and Councilwoman Brenner sitting in the front seats of the engine, an open house with tours, our firefighters roasting complimentary hotdogs on their famous grill, along with free popcorn and cookies being doled out.

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Photo by Katherine Mielke, NBPL

(L-R) Karen Carlson, who donated $50,000 to the CdM Library which was used toward the new collection of books and media, Councilmember Joy Brenner and Library Director Tim Hetherton

In addition, the library staff handed out library bags and bookmarks, while showing off the brand new collections of books and media (everything is new), the Friends of the Library Reading Porch, the Rex Brand wall mural, stroller parking and other features of the new library, including air conditioning, which was non-existent in the old building. Among the new features of the firehouse are unisex restrooms, individual dorm rooms and the double apparatus bay.

The Corona del Mar Library and Fire Station No. 5 is located at 410 Marigold Ave., Corona del Mar. The library will be open for services in the next several weeks.

Check out more photos from the Library/Fire Station Grand Opening below

All photos by Lana Johnson

Sailing into the harbor 

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Photo by Tina Treglia (Instagram @ttregs)

Another day in paradise along the Newport Harbor shore

Crystal Cove hosts Summer Art Show this weekend

This weekend, July 26-28, Crystal Cove Conservancy (CCC) hosts its 2019 Summer Art Show. This season, CCC will be featuring a diverse exhibit with 50 works by local artists and 26 pieces from all new artists. An exclusive preview and artist reception will be held on Friday, July 26 from 5-7:30 p.m. Guests will have the chance to meet the talented artists and enjoy wine, hors d’oeuvres and live music. The free public exhibition takes place Saturday and Sunday, July 27-28, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Going back to the earliest years of the 20th century, artists of all sorts have found Crystal Cove’s serene bluffs and beaches to be a source of endless inspiration, expressed in the California Impressionist style. The California Impressionists attempted to document the natural landscape for the enjoyment of future generations, typically en plein air, or in the outdoors. From all of this sprang a long-standing and vibrant community in Orange County that continues to this day, nearly 100 years later.

“We are casting a wider net than ever in an effort to bring new eyes and new voices into the Cove’s artistic purview,” said store manager Kian Maleki. “The Conservancy’s art program helps keep the tradition of California Impressionism alive in one of Southern California’s most beautiful historic sites.”

Tickets for Friday’s reception are $10 for Conservancy members and $20 for the general public. Proceeds will benefit the Conservancy operations and State Parks. For tickets, visit https://crystalcove.org/artshow/. A $15 day-use fee applies.

Traffic gets Council attention, dead bees raise questions in Irvine Terrace

By AMY SENK

Happy summer! And by that, I mean, are you locals having fun sitting in the never-ending Corona del Mar/Newport Beach traffic jam that seems to get worse each year, especially in July?

At the July 9 City Council meeting, Councilmember Joy Brenner of CdM suggested that the City form a Traffic Affairs Committee or Commission, and the remaining council members agreed by voting to consider the idea at a future meeting. Brenner is proposing that, if it is formed, the group would comprise seven members representing each Council district and also include a liaison from the Newport-Mesa Unified School District to serve as an ex officio member. The committee members would hold public forums to hear about traffic complaints and suggestions and study “all matters referred to it concerning traffic movement and safety,” Brenner said. The group would ultimately make traffic improvement suggestions to the City Council, General Plan Update Committee and Planning Commission.

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Photo by Amy Senk

Gridlock along Pacific Coast Highway in CdM

“During my campaign, one of the primary concerns of almost everyone I met was traffic,” Brenner said. “I started to wonder why we didn’t have a citizens advisory commission on this critical topic. After seven months on the job, I see how severely limited staff and council time actually is. And again, I wondered if a group of citizens whose primary concern is traffic could look at conditions and possible solutions and make recommendations. I started to investigate and found many cities already have such groups.”

Stay tuned for information on how to apply if such a committee forms.

• • •

Meanwhile, dead bees that showed up earlier this month near Irvine Terrace Park struck a chord with locals on the Nextdoor social media site.

“It was very disturbing to see a few days ago hundreds of dead bees on the path, hundreds,” a woman posted. “It was mostly clover grass in bloom by the path, so my guess is the maintenance company paid by the city...sprayed poison there. These bees are part of nature and we need them. And this was just next to the children’s play equipment. They run barefoot and play in this area. Spraying poison is wrong.”

Dozens of others replied, including Brenner and someone quoting City Councilman Jeff Herdman. The bees could have died from recent earthquakes, someone posted, while others said the City’s use of the herbicide “Roundup” was to blame.

No city crews, however, had sprayed that park around the time the dead bees showed up, said Kevin Pekar, the city’s landscape manager. Also, “Roundup” would not have been used near a city park. “We couldn’t find any hives in that park,” he added.

I emailed with a bee expert who said pesticides usually are the culprit when we see a cluster of dead bees, although mites or other causes could be to blame. The bees could have been sprayed elsewhere, perhaps by a private citizen, and then died by the city park.

“It could be so many different things,” said Micah Martin, the city’s deputy public works director.

I asked them about the use of “Roundup,” which was stirring up the Nextdoor posters, some referencing the $2 billion jury verdict against the company in May; that award likely will be reduced, according to recent news reports.

“We take an organic-first approach,” Martin said. “Chemicals are our last resort.”

“Roundup” is sprayed “very judicially” on stubborn, non-native weeds in places like medians, for example, he said. Not in parks where it could hurt animals and kids or mass-sprayed where it would kill everything it touched. The City of Newport Beach has an Integrated Pest Management program, he added, that is similar to other local agencies’ plans.

Nextdoor members seemed unconvinced, saying that other cities have banned synthetic pesticides and have asked that city council members meet with them to discuss moving to an all organic program.

“It is incomprehensible to me that they don’t even want to learn about the dangers of these products,” one woman wrote. “They need to protect our children and pets in our parks. Research has shown that even low dose exposure is having cross-generational impact. We are pursuing the press getting involved and City liability action.”

~~~~~~~~

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.

Sol Mexican Cocina’s Chef Deb to battle on “Guy’s Grocery Games” this week

Cheer on Newport Beach’s restaurateur, Sol Mexican Cocina’s Chef Deborah Schneider, as she does battle on Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games this Wednesday evening, July 24 at 9 p.m. (PST). “ABC Challenge” is the theme of the show.

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Sol Mexican Cocina’s Chef Deborah Schneider to star on “Guy’s Grocery Games” this week

Noteworthy is that Chef Deborah just finished her eighth cookbook, titled The Essential Mexican Instant Pot Cookbook. Sol Mexican Cocina is celebrating 10 years of business in our community in September, so there is plenty to commemorate.

Sol Mexican Cocina is located at 251 Pacific Coast Highway, Newport Beach. For more information, visit www.solcocina.com.

Breakers lose final set to fall to Springfield

The Orange County Breakers lost last night, 19-18, to the defending 2018 King Trophy winning champion Springfield Lasers in World Team Tennis action.

Steve Johnson joined the Breakers for the evening as their marquee player and took a team leading 15-14 advantage into the evening’s final set. However, Johnson lost 5-3 to Enrique Lopez-Perez to lose the match.

Johnson and Luke Bambridge did win an earlier men’s doubles match against the Lasers’ Jean-Julien Rojer and Lopez-Perez, 5-2.

The Breakers are now 2-4 on the season.

Johnson will return to action tonight against the Philadelphia Freedoms, along with Genie Bouchard and the rest of the Breakers. Play begins at Palisades Tennis Club at 6 p.m.

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Courtesy of OC Breakers

Breakers’ Luke Bambridge returns backhand in WTT action at Palisades Tennis Club in Newport Beach

Saturday Night (July 20) Results:

The Orange County Breakers won their home opener in front of a sold-out crowd over the San Diego Aviators, 24-17, Saturday night at Palisades Tennis Club.

The Breakers started slowly losing the opening set, before coming back to win the next four. 

The featured player of the evening for the Breakers was former world number one women’s player Victoria Azarenka, of Belarus, who beat Danielle Lao, 5-1, in women’s singles. Lao formerly starred at USC.

Upcoming Matches:

The Breakers have the following five matches home over the next nine days: Tonight vs. Philadelphia, Wednesday vs. New York, next Saturday vs. Las Vegas, July 29 vs. Orlando and July 31 vs. Washington – and then the three-week WTT season will conclude with the final four championships on August 2 and 3. 

For more information, visit https://breakerstennis.com/.

Egnot-Johnson wins the battle of New Zealanders for GovCup championship

The 53rd Governor’s Cup International Youth Match Racing Championship, hosted by the Balboa Yacht Club, has been won by Nick Egnot-Johnson (NZL) after an intense final match against now three-time GovCup runner-up Leonard Takahashi (NZL).

Egnot-Johnson won the first two of the best of five race series against Takahashi to take a commanding lead. However, Takahashi and his crew never lost confidence and quickly tied the series 2-2, to set up the final race. 

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Photo by Mary Longre

Egnot-Johnson and his crew reign supreme at end of GovCup week

At the final start, both boats fought for that right side and Egnot-Johnson got it. With a small lead at the first windward mark, he sailed virtually perfectly downwind. The final two legs featured Egnot-Johnson doing everything right to protect his lead, and he surfed across the finish line to win.

Earlier, Jack Parkin (USA) lost in his semi-final against Egnot-Johnson, which also went to the full five races. That put Parkin into the petit final against Frank Dair (USA) to determine third place overall in the regatta. 

Parkin won the best of five.

The other competitors who did not qualify for the semi-finals also sailed a best of three series to determine their final overall placing. 

Below are the complete final standings:

1.  Nick Egnot-Johnson (NZL)

2.  Leonard Takahashi (NZL)

3.  Jack Parkin (USA)

4.   Frank Dair (USA)

5.   Jordan Stevenson (NZL)

6.   Finn Tapper (AUS)

7.   Matt Whitfield (GBR)

8.   David Wood (USA)

9.   Clare Costanzo (AUS)

10. Cameron Feves (USA)

11. Jeppe Borch (DEN)

12. Mans Holmberg (SWE)

Guest Column

Grace Leung

An insider’s look at what’s going on in and around City Hall

Courtesy City of Newport Beach

Newport Beach City Manager Grace Leung   

Our next City Council meeting is tonight, Tuesday, July 23. The following are items that may be of interest. As always, this is not a summary of the entire agenda, which can be viewed here. 

Study session begins at 4 p.m. and we will have an overview of the State-mandated Organic Waste Recycling requirements. Over the last 19 years, the State of California has passed a number of regulations requiring cities to implement recycling programs. The first program required residents in all cities to reduce their waste by 50 percent by the year 2000. The City has been in compliance with this requirement since that time. Commercial recycling was implemented and became mandatory in July 2012. Organic recycling for commercial properties became effective in January 2019 and will become mandatory for everyone in 2022. The cost to the City for non-compliance can be as high as $10,000 per day. The mandates require cooperation between the City, the residents, the business community and the waste hauling community. Staff has been working to update both the City’s Municipal Code and waste hauler franchise agreements so that the City can come into compliance and enforce these state rules. The City Council will consider amendments to the Municipal Code and Franchise agreements in September. 

The Regular Session begins at 7 p.m. and the following are items of note: On the consent calendar is the purchase of Rule 20A credits from three cities, which will allow us to complete phase 2 of Underground Utilities District No. 22a on Balboa Boulevard. The acquisition provides $354,833 of credits, purchased for $195,158 – $0.55 per dollar. Phase 1 of this project began this month. 

For public hearing is the 2019 Drinking Water Quality Report on public health goals. The City is required to hold a Public Hearing every three years to present a Drinking Water Quality Report and how the City’s water compares to Public Health Goals and to standards. As is common in all water systems, not all goals are met. However and most importantly, Newport’s water system meets all state and federal drinking water standards.

I am pleased to present for Council consideration the proposed Employment Agreement with Jeff Boyles for Fire Chief services. Following an open and highly competitive recruitment process, I selected Assistant Chief Boyles for the Fire Chief position. With Jeff’s extensive experience and skillset, along with his knowledge and dedication to this community, we will have an exceptionally well qualified chief taking over from retiring Chief Duncan. Among his many accomplishments, I am especially grateful for Chief Duncan’s employee development and succession planning efforts and leaving the department in very capable hands. The Employment Agreement provides for salary and compensation terms. 

Under the terms of the agreement to provide destination marketing services to the City, Visit Newport Beach is required to submit its Business Plan Supplement and FY 2019-20 Budget for City Council review and/or approval. Visit Newport Beach also serves as the administrator for the Newport Beach Tourism Business Improvement District and is submitting the District’s FY 2019-20 annual report and FY 2019-20 budget for review and approval. 

As a reminder, public comment is welcome at the City Council meeting. The public can comment on any item on the agenda. If you cannot attend the meeting and/or want to communicate with the City Council directly on an item, the following email address gets to all of them: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Week in Review was provided last week. In case you missed it, we do post them on the City’s website; the latest edition can be found here. 

Thank you for reading. Feedback is appreciated so please don’t hesitate to ask a question or offer a comment. 

Grace K. Leung

City Manager

City of Newport Beach

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

949.644.3001

Orange County comes together to support older adults in need, raising $73,000+ in only 24 hours

On July 17, five local nonprofit organizations partnered with the Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF) to host the second annual Preserving Dignity, a Giving Day for OC’s older adults in need. The 24-hour effort raised $73,000 with participation from more than 233 donors.

OCCF, based in Newport Beach, launched this bold initiative in 2017 to build the capacity of local nonprofits through a series of Collaborative Giving Days. Nonprofits with shared missions are invited to come together to boost collective giving for their causes. OCCF powered the Preserving Dignity campaign with seed funding to support the marketing assets, campaign resources and collaborative partnerships. 

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Submitted photo

“With the number of older adults living in Orange County expected to increase 17 percent by the year 2045, it is up to the nonprofit community to provide vital resources to this growing population,” said Shelley Hoss, president, OCCF. “For the second year, we are proud to power the Preserving Dignity Giving Day and support local organizations with similar commitments to OC’s older adults.”

The five organizations that participated in Preserving Dignity included Alzheimer’s Orange County, SeniorServ, Council on Aging-Southern California, Southern California Hospice Foundation and St. Francis Home.

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 through gifts to 347 participating nonprofits in just 30 hours. OCCF nearly doubled those results in 2016 during the second annual iheartoc Giving Day, receiving contributions totaling $3.2 million for 418 participating nonprofits.

In 2017, OCCF re-envisioned iheartoc as an expanded opportunity for nonprofits to connect with one another in support of their shared missions. The seven Giving Days held throughout 2018 raised a total of $1.4 million for local organizations. 

Additional collaborative Giving Days will be announced throughout the year. For more information, visit www.oc-cf.org/iheartoc.

The LEGO Movie 2 plays tonight at “Movie in the Park”

Movie in the Park, The LEGO Movie 2 will show tonight, July 19, at Cliff Drive Park at 298 Riverside Ave., from 7-10 p.m.

Families, friends and neighbors are invited to enjoy some summer fresh air, free popcorn and candy, free activities and, of course, the movie.

Courtesy of the City of Newport Beach

Other food will also be available for purchase.

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets or towels for comfortable sitting to view the movie.

The LEGO Movie 2 is the 2019 computer-animated adventure musical comedy produced by the Warner Animation Group.

In the movie, “the citizens of Bricksburg face a dangerous new threat when LEGO DUPLO invaders from outer space start to wreck everything in their path. The battle to defeat the enemy and restore harmony to the LEGO universe takes Emmet, Lucy, Batman and the rest of their friends to faraway, unexplored worlds that test their courage and creativity.”

Presented by the City of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Department, this is the second of four movie screenings throughout the summer.

Upcoming events this weekend at Barnes & Noble Fashion Island

For book lovers of all ages, Barnes & Nobles, Fashion Island has some special events planned for this weekend.

Here’s the schedule of events:

–Saturday, July 20 at 11 a.m. – Storytime and Activities in the Children’s Department. What better way to learn about the history and formation of the moon than from the moon itself. Join the fun during a reading of Moon! Earth’s Best Friend (B&N Exclusive Edition) by Stacy McAnulty. Snacks and activities are included. Get a coupon from the Café for a grilled cheese sandwich with milk or juice for $4. (Café stores only.)

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–Saturday, July 20 at 2 p.m. – Graphix Con in the Children’s Department. Celebrate graphic novels with activities including drawing, writing and exploring your favorite graphic novel series. Plus, enjoy special offers on graphic novels.

–Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21 at 10 a.m. – Back to School Educator Appreciation Shopping Weekends Pre-K to grade 12 educators, enjoy 25 percent off most books, toys, games, movies, music and more every Saturday and Sunday from July 20 through September 15, in store and online plus 10 percent off Café consumables. (Café stores only). While supplies last.

–Sunday, July 21 at 11 a.m. – Baby & Me Storytime in the Children’s Department. Introducing their new Baby & Me Storytime for caregivers and children 0-24 months old. Join the fun as they read Busy Bee: Never Touch a Crocodile and participate in activities featuring sensory growth for your little ones. Plus, get a free Starbucks tall, hot or iced coffee. (Café stores only.)

Barnes & Nobles is located in Fashion Island near Atrium Court at 401 Newport Center Drive, Suite A215, Newport Beach. For more information, visit www.barnesandnoble.com.

Urban Arts OC camp continues until August 30

Welcome to one of the coolest places to spend the long, hot summer – Urban Arts OC Art Camp. Keep the youngsters engaged in creativity with art camp from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. daily, or try one of their afternoon classes which run daily from 3:30-5 p.m. Youngsters can join in camp for a day or a week. If you need additional child care after camp, hourly craft time is available.

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Courtesy of Urban Arts OC

Activities include painting, ceramics, drawing, crafts, baking and more. Pack a lunch and the rest will be provided. Geared to ages 4+. Payment is required prior to camp attendance in order reserve your child’s space. Drop-ins will not be accepted so as to ensure proper teacher to student ratios. 

Cost: Morning Session: 9 a.m.-12 p.m., $55 per child for a one-morning session; Full Day Session: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., $75 per child for one day; Full Week: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., $350 per child for five full days of camp, Monday-Friday.

Call 949.474.1552 with questions or to reserve your space. You can also visit www.urbanartsoc.com/schedule/ to register.

Urban Arts OC is located at 4250 Scott Drive, Newport Beach.

OC Fair offers admission for less with great deals, promotions

There are so many great deals at the 2019 OC Fair that there is a way to experience “Acres of Fun” for free or at a discount every single day.

Here’s how to save:

–We Care Wednesdays: Each Wednesday through August 7, fairgoers can donate to one of the OC Fair’s local nonprofit partners’ supply drives for free general admission plus one carnival ride per person. (Excludes the Titan ride.) The offer is valid from 12-3 p.m. and donations are accepted at all entrance gates: Blue Gate, Yellow Gate or Green Gate.

–July 24: Canned food drive for Second Harvest Food Bank and OC Food Bank. Donate five cans of food.

–July 31: Children’s book drive for Think Together. Donate three new or gently used children’s books. No coloring books/workbooks or audio books.

–August 7: Clothing drive for Goodwill. Donate five new or gently used clothing items.

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Photos courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center

Oodles of Fair fun on Kids Day every Thursday

–Kids Day: On Thursdays, kids 12 and under receive free Fair admission all day. Also, children 5 and under are always free. Bonus tip: A fun activity for kids on Thursdays will be the OC Fair Scavenger Hunt, where hunters can pick up a card from Kidland, Explorium or Centennial Farm, and complete the tasks assigned and earn prizes.

–Read & Ride: Children ages 5-11 can read two books to earn three free carnival rides after downloading and completing a book report form. Completed book report forms can be redeemed for ride tickets at the Kidland Information Booth during Fair hours. (Excludes the Titan ride.)

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Photos courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center

Through the “Read & Ride” promotion, kids who read two books and write a book report, earning three free carnival rides, such as this one on DISKO

–Seniors Day: On Fridays, seniors 60 and older receive $5 Fair admission plus free rides on the Ferris wheel and merry-go-round all day.

–First Responders and Law Enforcement Week: On August 7-11, active-duty and professional staff of the police, sheriff, fire and emergency services departments receive free Fair admission, with the option of purchasing up to four tickets for guests at half-price. Issuing agency ID is required.

–Military and veterans: Active-duty military and veterans receive free Fair admission, with the option of purchasing up to six tickets for guests at half-price. Military ID is required.

For all the latest OC Fair discounts, including carnival ride and wristband deals, see visit www.ocfair.com/deals for more information.

Summer Art Show at Crystal Cove

On July 26-28, Crystal Cove Conservancy (CCC) is hosting its 2019 Summer Art Show. This season, CCC will be featuring a diverse exhibit with 50 works by local artists and 26 pieces from all new artists. An exclusive preview and artist reception will be held on Friday, July 26 from 5-7:30 p.m. Guests will have the chance to meet the talented artists and enjoy wine, hors d’oeuvres and live music. The free public exhibition takes place Saturday and Sunday, July 27-28, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Going back to the earliest years of the 20th century, artists of all sorts have found Crystal Cove’s serene bluffs and beaches to be a source of endless inspiration, expressed in the California Impressionist style. The California Impressionists attempted to document the natural landscape for the enjoyment of future generations, typically en plein air, or in the outdoors. From all of this sprang a long standing and vibrant community in Orange County that continues to this day, nearly 100 years later.

“We are casting a wider net than ever in an effort to bring new eyes and new voices into the Cove’s artistic purview,” said store manager Kian Maleki. “The Conservancy’s art program helps keep the tradition of California Impressionism alive in one of Southern California’s most beautiful historic sites.”

Tickets for Friday’s reception are $10 for Conservancy members and $20 for the general public. Proceeds will benefit the Conservancy operations and State Parks. For tickets, visit https://crystalcove.org/artshow/. A $15 day use fee applies.

Take an evening hike on the Buck Gully Upper Loop

Explore the richness of Buck Gully Reserve by taking an evening Buck Gully Upper Loop Hike on Saturday, Aug. 10 from 5-8 p.m. The stream is running and the rich plant and animal life are enjoying the cool, shady canyon making for an evening hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings.

Walk along San Joaquin Hills Road, which overlooks Buck Gully for the first mile, then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail, looping back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail. This activity is conducted at a walking pace, approximately three miles per hour.

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The picturesque Upper Buck Gully Loop Hike is four miles

Led by an Irvine Ranch Conservancy volunteer, this hike is open to those 8 years and older. The distance is four miles; the duration is 2.5 hours with moderate difficulty.

This hike is free, but registration is required. Meet at Newport Coast Community Center, 6401 San Joaquin Hills Road, Newport Coast. Bring water, a light trail snack, sturdy closed-toe shoes and supplies to keep you safe during the journey. Sunscreen and a hat are highly recommended. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

For a calendar of upcoming events at Let’s Get Outside, visit our Calendars section here.

Hidden gems: Discover what’s inside those OC Fair buildings

OC Fairgoers know they can expect exciting rides, outrageous food, great entertainment and lots of animals...but what’s inside those buildings?

Here’s a look inside the top 10 OC Fair hidden gems:

–Crafts and Woodworking: Every year, fairgoers are surprised by the range of talent on display here. From musical instruments handmade out of wood to visually stunning quilts to jewelry made by veterans at the Long Beach Veterans Hospital, guests have plenty to see and do.

–OC Promenade Culinary Arts: The Culinary Playground provides a space for fairgoers to learn about sustainability in the kitchen while chef demos give home cooks tips on sushi, charcuterie and even margaritas. Some exciting competitions await.

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Photos courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center

Junior chefs compete in a burger battle

–Visual Arts: This building offers a feast for the eyes, with a wide array of exhibits and how-tos on everything from watercolors and woodcarving to Photoshop and more. The 2019 OC Fair featured artist, Narsiso Martinez, has a prominent spot highlighting his collages that shine a light on farmworkers, their work and their conditions. 

–Carnival of Products, Parade of Products and Festival of Products: The ultimate place to shop on the fairgrounds, there are a variety of vendors selling unique products from spas to hammocks to healthy products and culinary equipment.

–Gallery 15: Competition entries of fresh-cut flowers and container plants are featured, but don’t miss the unique collections found here, including everything from ceramic eggs and Betty Boop memorabilia to suits of armor and tribal masks and more.

–The Courtyard: This is the place that attracts wine aficionados, thanks to the Orange County Wine Society. Fairgoers can sample wines that won awards from the 2019 OC Fair Wine Competition. Each weekend, there are also themed wine seminars which offer each paid participant eight one-ounce tastings, a commemorative OC Fair wine glass and assorted nibbles.

–Muddy’s Studio: Watch professionals with their pottery wheels make clay and ceramic pots, vases and more right before your eyes. Stop by for foot-throwing Fridays at 6 p.m.

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Discovering the world of butterflies in the Explorium

–Explorium: This is the place to take your kids to get them out of the sun and into some habitat fun. Children can interact with the Rainforest Experience and view bugs, butterflies and reptiles. There are also crafts, a water-balloon game, nightly eating contests and the always popular magic of Frank Thurston.

–Baja Blues: Come for the food, drinks, beer, patio seating and people-watching, but stay for the live music, which includes Phil Shane, Straight 78, TTT Brand and more. 

–Silo Gallery: The best floral arrangements from 2019 OC Fair competitions are featured here, along with the UCCE Master Gardeners, plus everything you’d ever want to know about bees. Bonus: This is a great place to beat the heat.

Bonus: New to the 2019 OC Fair are four agricultural-themed lounges spread throughout the fairgrounds where fairgoers can sit, relax and learn more about these California commodities: avocados, strawberries, oranges and beef. The lounges also feature recycled OC Fair banners re-purposed into cushions along with re-purposed palettes made into sofas, chairs, tables and stools.

The 2019 OC Fair continues through August 11 and offers days and nights of entertainment, food, rides, shopping, exhibits and more. Hours are 12 p.m.- 12 a.m., Wednesdays through Fridays, and 11 a.m.-12 a.m., Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, visit www.ocfair.com.

Speak Up Newport announces 2019 college scholarship award winners

On July 10, at its monthly meeting, Speak Up Newport President Edward Selich formally announced the winners of four college scholarships in the amount of $3,000. The recipients were Gianna Finear and Kaveh Moaddeli from Corona del Mar High School, and Maddie Vargas and Emily Reynoso from Newport Harbor High School.

Gianna Finear will be attending Brown University and pursuing a career in International Business. She plans to represent the U.S. on the global stage, either as a United Nations representative or a foreign diplomat.

Kaveh Moaddeli, who is attending Monmouth University, is seeking a career as a reconstructive surgeon, possibly in an emergency room. He plans to work in our nation’s diverse communities in order to help underserved and under-represented groups.

Maddie Vargas, who is attending UC Berkeley, enjoys helping young people in their struggles and wants to continue to do so after receiving her degree.

Emily Reynoso, who is bound for the University of Utah, will pursue a major in criminology. She would like to one day work as a criminologist in the justice system and give hope to those who have lost their hope.

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Submitted photo

(L-R) Scholarship winners Maddie Vargas, Emily Reynoso, Speak Up Newport President Edward Selich and Kaveh Moaddeli

Speak Up Newport congratulates each of these outstanding students as well as all of the other applicants. Because all of the applicants this year were exemplary, selecting the winners was a difficult task.

Speak Up Newport, Newport Beach’s community forum for discussion of civic issues, awards these scholarships on an annual basis in addition to sponsoring the annual Mayor’s Dinner, and monthly programs of community interest.

Recent programs have included Homelessness, Intolerance In Our Community, Police Department Cold Case Investigations, Sea Level Rise and the General Aviation Improvement Plan at John Wayne Airport.

Meetings are open to the public without reservations on the second Wednesday of the month in the Community Room at the Civic Center. The reception, hosted by the Bungalow Restaurant, starts at 5:15 p.m. with the program starting at 6 p.m. and usually ending at 7 p.m. 

The scholarships are funded through revenue from the Mayor’s Dinner, private donations to the scholarship fund and an endowed scholarship fund. Donations to this worthwhile program are accepted at any time and are tax deductible. Checks can be made payable to the Speak Up Newport Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) corporation.

For further information go to www.SpeakUpNewport.com.

Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Breakers team tennis comes to Newport Beach for their short summer season

Your Orange County Breakers, our local professional World Team Tennis franchise, kicks off their home season this weekend in the Breakers Stadium at Palisades Tennis Club.

WTT is a quick season that lands in Newport Beach for seven home matches over a 12-day period. The team consists of a coach and four players, two men and two women. A fifth player is added when a marque player joins in the action.

It’s fun, it’s fast and it’s up close action. 

Saturday night, at 6 p.m., the Breakers host the San Diego Aviators and will feature Victoria Azarenka and Taylor Fritz. They’ll play again Monday when they host the Springfield Lasers and Steve Johnson joins the action; and again Tuesday against the Philadelphia Freedoms with Johnson and Genie Bouchard.

For tickets and more information, go to breakerstennis.com.

• • •

This Saturday the Corona del Mar Library and Fire Station will celebrate its grand opening. The community is invited. It’s from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

You’ll get the speeches, the ribbon cutting, tours and refreshments. It will be a great celebration. It will also be an opportunity for the community to say “goodbye” to Fire Chief Chip Duncan, who retires following the weekend celebration.

Chip has been a homegrown fire service person who rose through the ranks right here in Newport Beach. This new station opening is just one of his crowning achievements.

He retires after 32 years on the force. So, no matter how you cut it, that’s a lot of action.

Stu News Newport joins in thanking him for his service.

• • •

The travel website Hotwire.com released its “Best of the U.S. cities for a quick getaway.” You’re probably not surprised that Newport Beach finished numero uno on the list for micro cities.

According to Hotwire, the site “looked at more than 250 cities and three main factors: best bang for your buck, ease of arrival and things to do.”

Hotwire is a travel website offering hotel rooms, airline tickets, rental cars and vacation packages. Analysts for the company say “they are seeing an increase in quick trips of 72 hours or less, often booked less than a week in advance.”

• • •

Hey, if you’re a football fan, Los Angeles Chargers to be specific, there’s a luncheon next Tuesday at the Avenue of the Arts Hotel in Costa Mesa. Speaking at the event will be A.G. Spanos and John Spanos of the team’s ownership family.

They’ll talk about what’s in store for the 2019 season; tell us if a Super Bowl is in the realm of possibilities; the status of the new stadium; and roster changes that might make a difference this year.

I’m excited because I get to emcee the event. I hope to see you there.

If you’re interested, I suggest you contact the host Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce today. Go to www.costamesachamber.com.

Our own Hoag Hospital is underwriting the event and will discuss their association with the Chargers as the “official healthcare partner.”

• • •

Finally, I always like to remind our readers that the 1/1 Marine Foundation will have a car wash fundraiser tomorrow, July 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shell Gas Station at 1600 Jamboree Road. For those of you still lost, that’s at the corner of Jamboree and San Joaquin Hills Road over by Fashion Island.

The suggested donation is $20 but remember what these Marines do for us.

The monies go to supporting their families in times of crisis when they’re away protecting us and to assist in things like underwriting the Marine Ball.

In any case, please, please support them.

Breaking News in Newport Beach

Trial starts in sexual mutilation kidnapping attack

A trial began this week in Newport Beach for crimes committed in 2012, including kidnapping, torture and sexual mutilation.

The defendant is Hossein Nayeri, who is accused of being one of three masked men to kidnap a marijuana dispensary owner, who was taken from a Newport Beach peninsula home in the early morning hours of Oct. 12, 2012.

The victim and his girlfriend were then driven to the desert. Once there, the men allegedly sought $1 million they believed the victim had previously buried in the desert.

The suspects allegedly beat the victim, shocked him repeatedly with a Taser and burned him with a blow torch, all in an effort of being told where the buried money was.

Later they even allegedly cut off his penis.

The rumored $1 million was just that, a rumor.

The man and his girlfriend were left to die, however, she managed to escape and return with help.

Eventually, Nayeri and his accomplices were identified following a Newport Beach neighbor remembering a vehicle license plate in the peninsula area on the original abduction date.

Interestingly enough, Nayeri later was one of three inmates to escape from the Orange County jail in a highly publicized attempt. They were eventually arrested days later in San Francisco.

The trial is expected to last several weeks. A previous accomplice to Nayeri has already stood trial and received a sentence of four life terms.

Homes with a view

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Photo by Kevin Pellon (Instagram @socalsnapz)

The views from these waterfront CdM houses are priceless

Looking for the sun

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Photo by Jason Berry (Instagram @its_jason_berry)

Waiting for the morning fog to burn off into a beautiful summer day at the beach

Takahashi looks to have clear sailing to the championship rounds

Leonard Takahashi (NZL) solidified his chances of reaching the semi-finals of the Balboa Yacht Club’s 53rd Governor’s Cup International Youth Match Racing Championship by completing a 4-1 record in yesterday’s action off Newport Beach, with four races remaining in the double round-robin stage. 

Takahashi’s overall score of 14 points puts him two ahead of Jack Parkin (USA), who also had a 4-1 score to conclude Thursday with 12 points. 

Parkin’s wins included close matches against Frank Dair (USA), who was in second after Wednesday’s action and Jordan Stevenson (NZL). 

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Photo by Mary Longpre

Parkin is close entering the final two days of competition

Four skippers are only one point behind Parkin, including Dair, Stevenson, Nick Egnot-Johnson (NZL) and Finn Tapper (AUS). 

Since only four sailors will make the semi-finals based on their final scores from the round-robins, racing today be will exciting for the growing spectator fleet. 

Parkin might have the easiest path to the semi-finals since he faces four skippers not in contention for the semi-finals.

When Parkin was asked about that, he said, “only on paper,” noting that the round-robin matches have shown any of the skippers can beat any of the others in a given race. 

Key matches among the contenders today include Egnot-Johnson vs. Tapper in the first flight of the day, followed immediately by Takahashi against Dair. Then, Dair faces off against Stevenson, and in the final two flights, Stevenson faces off against Tapper and Takahashi against Egnot-Johnson. 

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Photo by Tom Walker/Maserati

Dair (USA) looking to advance to this afternoon’s semi-finals, and continue on to tomorrow’s finals in his quest for the GovCup Championship

Just a few points behind the leaders are local favorite David Wood (USA), of the host Balboa Yacht Club, Matt Whitfield (GBR) and Clare Costanzo (AUS). 

Conditions yesterday had 9-14 knot southerly winds.

Earlier week’s action:

Wednesday, July 17 – Takahashi (NZL), a two-time GovCup runner-up, is alone on the top of the leaderboard with 10 wins, with Dair (USA) only one point back with nine wins. Four other skippers have eight points and are tied for third, with four semi-final spots on the line come Friday.

“We had a good day but are still trying to minimize mistakes and get back to our old form,” said Dair, following Wednesday’s action. “Both of my crew are doing a good job, and we look forward to some more great racing.”

The tie for third includes Tuesday’s co-leader, Tapper (AUS), Jack Parkin (USA) and two of Takahashi’s countrymen, Nick Egnot-Johnson and Jordan Stevenson. 

Most of Wednesday’s matches were close and as tightly contested as the current standings. The featured match in the last race of the first round-robin was between pre-regatta favorites Takahashi and Egnot-Johnson, with the latter leading for three of the legs, but being passed by Takahashi on the fourth and final downwind leg to preserve his overall lead. 

Conditions were near perfect with a 10-14 knot breeze off Newport Beach, with unusually large chop. 

Tuesday, July 16 – The four Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron teams got away to a solid start on Day 1.

Takahashi (NZL) had the best record with five wins and two losses which saw him tied for the lead with Tapper (AUS).

Takahashi was happy with how his day unfolded – “All in all it was a pretty good day, five wins and two losses is a good start. The boat’s feeling fast, we just need to sort out a few loose ends in the pre-start game.”

Dair (USA) also looked good on the water but is looking to improve on Wednesday – “We had a mixed bag today. We made a lot of rookie mistakes but also did some really good things so it’s just a matter of shaking off a bit more rust and getting back into the groove of things.”

Still to come:

Today, July 19 – Today is the Round Robin Semi-final that will begin at 11:30 a.m. Prior to that, the competitors will meet under the tent for breakfast to kick off the day at 8 a.m. Then, at 9 a.m., there’ll be a competitors’ meeting and boat draw. The competitors will then head for the race course at 10.

Following the day’s races, there will be an umpire debrief, followed by a pasta bar at the BYC for competitors.

A BYC member, sponsor and competitor reception will follow from 6-8 p.m.

Tomorrow, July 20 – The day again starts with breakfast under the tent at 8 a.m., followed by a competitor’s meeting and boat draw. They’ll then depart for the race course at 10 a.m.

Beginning at 11:30 a.m., the semi-finals will continue, followed by the finals.

A post-race press conference with the finalists followed by a trophy reception will take place at the BYC.

Retirement party for Fire Chief Duncan honors his service, commitment to Newport Beach

To celebrate Newport Beach Fire Chief Chip Duncan’s retirement, City staff joined current and former City Council members to pay tribute at a party honoring him that took place on Thursday, July 18, from 4-6 p.m. in the Civic Center Community Room.

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Photos by Amy Senk

(L-R) Retiring Newport Beach Fire Chief Chip Duncan, Newport Beach Mayor Diane Dixon and Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Steve Rosansky 

Duncan has spent 34 years in the fire service, 32 years with the city of Newport Beach. He timed his retirement so he could be present at the opening of the new Corona del Mar fire station which takes place on Saturday, July 20.

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(L-R) Newport Beach Assistant Fire Chief Jeff Boyles, who has been selected as our next Fire Chief and Chip Duncan

Jeff Boyles, who currently serves as assistant fire chief, has been named as Duncan’s successor.

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(L-R) Newport Beach Police Chief Jon Lewis and Jeff Boyles

CdM Library and Fire Station Grand Opening set for tomorrow

The City of Newport Beach is holding a grand opening event tomorrow, Saturday, July 20 to celebrate the Corona del Mar Branch Library and Fire Station Replacement Project. Community members are invited to join in the celebration/

The new 10,314-square-foot joint facility replaces two former buildings, the branch library and fire station, which were 60 and 70 years old, respectively. The new facility’s design was accomplished with input from community members, the Library Board of Trustees, the Library Services Department and the Fire Department. The City Council awarded contracts for the construction and construction-support services on February 27, 2018 for $8,333,000.

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Photo by Amy Senk

CdM Library and Fire Station

Project construction began in April 2018 and will be completed on time and within the approved budget. 

Newport Beach City Council Members, members of the Library Board of Trustees, City executive staff and representatives from the Library Services Department, Fire Department and Public Works Department will be in attendance.

Schedule of Events:

–10:30 a.m. Grand Opening Ceremony

–Immediately following the ceremony: Fire engine push in; and open house with food and tours until 12:30 p.m. with the library remaining open until 2 p.m.

Adding to festivities at the CdM Branch, library staff will be handing out library bags and bookmarks and showing off the brand new collections of books and media (everything is new), the Friends of the Library Reading Porch, the Rex Brand wall mural, stroller parking and other features of the new library (including air conditioning, which was non-existent in the old building). The library will open for “business” in a week or two – with the date still to be determined and announced.

Parking is available on the street or in the parking lot at the corner of Marguerite Avenue and Fifth Street. Note: Marigold Avenue will be closed for the event from 410 Marigold Ave. to Second Street.

The Corona del Mar Library and Fire Station No. 5 is located at 410 Marigold Ave., Corona del Mar.

From Balboa Island to Dover Shores, Kelly Couzens-Brooks shares a love for Newport and passion for design

By LANA JOHNSON

I recently caught up with Kelly Couzens-Brooks, ASID, IIDA, principal of KC Design and Interiors in Newport Beach, who specializes in residential and yacht interior design. While interested in finding out more about her projects and mastery of unique island and resort living spaces, I discovered her rich family history and ties to Balboa Island.

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Photo by Frank Salas Photography

Kelly Couzens-Brooks, ASID, IIDA, on the lanai at her Dover Shores home

A Balboa Island family

For those who might recall the Balboa Island Variety Store, which opened in 1938 at 213 Marine Ave. (now Balboa Surf & Style), it was built and run by Couzens-Brooks’ grandfather, Bob Allen, and great grandmother, Martha Jane Allen. Serving as a mini-department store, it sold cookware, glassware, stationery, greeting cards, yarn, sewing goods, lots of kids’ toys and basic hardware from can openers to pliers, while competing with the hardware store across the street. The Variety Store (as it was referred to) won holiday storefront window display competitions numerous times. Couzens-Brooks’ mother, Janice Allen Aarvold, worked in the store beginning at the age of 13. It was eventually sold in the 1960s.

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Courtesy of Kelly Couzens-Brooks

The Balboa Island Variety Store

In addition, Martha and Bob also built and ran the Malt Shop next door at 211 Marine Ave., selling hamburgers, shakes and malts. It was sold to the Dodds in the 1940s and is where Crocker’s is now located. In between the Variety Store and the Malt Shop, they built a two-story duplex (1/1 upstairs and a 1/1 downstairs) with a big yard, where the family lived, and guests could stay, enjoying lots of get togethers when they came down from Los Angeles for parties in the summertime, as Martha and Bob loved to entertain. The family eventually moved down to the Island in 1937.

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Courtesy of Kelly Couzens-Brooks

The Balboa Island Malt Shop

Another retail venture was building an upscale gift shop, with high-end housewares along with dishware, glassware and furniture across the street at 214 Marine Ave. It is now Alex’s Fashion Center.

In 1937, Bob and Martha built a quaint beach cottage at 313 Amethyst Ave. Bob wed Bernice (Billie) in 1930 and they made the cottage their home, where it still stands today, with a historical plaque hanging above the address number. According to Couzens-Brooks, her mom, Janice, grew up there since the age of 4.

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Photo by Kelly Couzens-Brooks

The beach cottage at 313 Amethyst Ave.

Noteworthy, is that Bob served as a Newport Beach councilman from 1940-48, founded the first Rotary Club and became its first president. He also served as the city fire chief. According to Couzens-Brooks, “My grandfather worked closely with the police department with regards to the gambling and drinking outside of the harbor on ships. He would disguise himself as a woman and spy at the Hurley Bell (now the Five Crowns Restaurant), and assisted in arresting gamblers and drinkers.”

A flourishing design business

With roots here in Newport Beach, it’s no wonder why Couzens-Brooks launched her interior design firm here in 2002. Although she has undertaken a variety of projects including designing commercial executive suites, her signature style of relaxed elegance lies with creating bespoke residential and yacht spaces, tailored to her clients’ specific tastes and inspiration. “My vision is to achieve a standard of excellence in transforming clients’ dreams of designing their homes and/or yacht’s interiors into reality through communication, vision and listening.” Many of her projects are eclectic and juxtaposed...ranging from Spanish style to residential island living.

“Design is always changing based on the place, architecture, client and historical context. I love using my creativity and working with color, textiles, the old and the new.”

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Photo by Frank Salas Photography

Dover Shores, the foyer and great room lead out to the lanai overlooking the Back Bay

Her firm recently completed a three-year project that involved a complete redo taking it down to the frame...and it also happens to be her home on Galaxy Drive in Dover Shores, that she shares with her husband, Michael, a structural engineer. “Together and working with the architect, we took a 1960s home and incorporated both of our visions into it.” The result is a cliffside beach house overlooking the Back Bay that spans 7,300 square feet in a tropical Pacific Rim/Hawaiian style. Amenities of this single level ranch home include four ensuite bedrooms, six baths, two private offices, flooring of limestone, teak wood and carpet, grained woods and cabinetry throughout and a temperature-controlled tequila bar (for their tequilas and white wines) off the kitchen. Opening to the outdoors, you’ll encounter the spacious lanai, a waterfall/infinity edge heated spa and a bocce ball court.

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Photo by Frank Salas Photography

The kitchen’s wood finishes exude warmth 

“Beneath the five-car garage, we built a 450-square-foot wine cellar,” Couzens-Brooks said, who describes her home as relaxed, warm and welcoming.

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Photo by Frank Salas Photography

Couzens-Brooks in the wine cellar

When asked about her color palette, she said she adores being bold with color. “The master is navy, there are taupes, oranges and reds in the living room and kitchen, the laundry room is turquoise and aqua, while one of the guest suites is red with Fijian patterns.”

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Photo by Frank Salas Photography

The lanai serves as the outdoor gathering space

Along with her love of color is her love of the sea, which extends to her designing yacht interiors. “I grew up on and around boats here in Newport Beach all my life. They have always been a passion for me,” Couzens-Brooks shared. “Boats are very custom in many ways, depending on the make and model regarding the flooring, window coverings and upholstery.” She uses materials that are marine grade and water and fade resistant to stand up to the elements. And she should know, she recently did the interior design on her own 62-ft. Mikelson Nomad yacht, a year-long project she finished this past April.

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Photo by Turville Photography

One of the staterooms in Couzen-Brooks’ yacht, “Bula,” whose name translates to life, love, hospitality

“Our boat is named ‘Bula’, which is a Fijian expression that translates to ‘life, love, hospitality’, and is especially significant because Michael and I were married in Fiji.” The yacht has three staterooms, and she did all the reupholstering, redid the furnishings, bedding, carpeting, the flybridge, dinette, and all the soft goods inside and out.

 “We’ve taken it to Dana Point, San Diego, Catalina and hope to motor up to the Pacific Northwest next year,” she said.

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Photo by Turville Photography

The dining area on the yacht “Bula”

So how did Couzens-Brooks get into the interior design field? “In 2002, I went back to college when my two daughters were a little older and studied interior design at Orange Coast College, where I fell in love with the industry. My first instructor was Renee Kubiak who provided me with positive reinforcement, guidance and enlightenment. She encouraged me to break out of the box and out of my comfort zone...she pushed me to use color with complimentary textiles and materials.”

When asked about women she admired, Couzens-Brooks said: “Dorothy Draper, whose hallmarks are boldly colorful, elegant and cheerful; Kelly Wearstler, whose global luxury lifestyle brand is marked by its distinctive designs and sophisticated soulful character; and Kathryn Switzer, who in 1967, was the first woman to run the marathon and changed history for women...empowering us to do anything.”

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Photo by Kristen Couzens

The Dover Shores backyard provides endless Back Bay vistas

How does this energetic, on-the-go professional spend her leisure time? “I enjoy sharing time with my husband, family and friends. I love reading (she’s been in a book club for 10 years), traveling where she picks up great design ideas and being outdoors hiking, biking, boating. I just love being near the water.”

Sounds like for Couzens-Brooks, Newport Beach is truly the perfect place to be.

Editor’s Note: For more information on KC Design and Interiors and to view Kelly Couzens-Brooks’ photo gallery, visit www.kcdesigninteriors.com. She will be featured on the cover of “The Shores Living Magazine” in August.

Take Five: Meet the Newport Beach Poop Fairy

By AMY SENK

Poop, well, happens – but it doesn’t magically disappear as if some mythical Poop Fairy is always on duty. So when Balboa Island residents began to complain about messes left behind by dogs, Newport Beach city staff brainstormed ways to deal with the problem. The Poop Fairy was born – but she’s “on vacation,” meaning residents have to do their own poop patrol. I caught up with the Poop Fairy to find out the poop about poop.

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Courtesy of the City of Newport Beach

The Poop Fairy is watching you

Q: You are new to town – how did that come about? I heard it might have been City Councilman Jeff Herdman’s idea.

A: Apparently, Councilmember Herdman saw my cousin working in the city of Glendale. He contacted me for assistance cleaning up after pets on Balboa Island. Of course, I was delighted to relocate to such a beautiful community. The ocean environment is doing wonders for my complexion. However, as I’m sure you can imagine with making a big move, I needed to take a vacation to see to a few things. That’s the reason I asked the City to let people know I’m on vacation, so pet owners know to bring a bag with them every time they walk out the door with their pet.

Q: How big a problem is poop in Newport?

A: Balboa Island was the initial concern. However, once I started working, I found other locations where City staff had been receiving complaints from community members. It appears to be mostly in areas with limited places to walk dogs, such as on the Balboa Peninsula and in Corona del Mar. There does not seem to be a problem in the City’s parks and landscape areas.

Q: Why is cleaning up pet waste important?

A: There are three reasons everyone should clean up after their pets. When pet waste sits around, it can grow fecal coliform bacteria, harbor parasites and serve as a host for viruses. Then, it eventually makes its way into the storm drain system, which goes untreated to the harbor, bay or ocean creating water quality issues. Lastly, the City’s Municipal Code requires pet owners to clean up after their pets. Cleaning up after your pet is simple – grab it, bag it and toss it.

Q: How much time and money does the city spend on cleaning dog waste? I wonder about cleaning parks and sidewalks as well as having bag dispensers located around town.

A: Bag dispensers are donated to the City by community or homeowner associations such as on Balboa Island. In fact, even though the dispensers are well stocked, there seems to still be a problem with people not cleaning up after their pets. In fact, I’ve even found instances where people have used bags, but they leave it on the ground or attached to fences. 

Q: Has there been any improvement since you’ve been hanging around?

A: I work hard to stay on top of the problem, but there is only one of me. Since I’m on vacation, the signs are a gentle reminder to be responsible for your pet or pets. While I’ve been on vacation, I’ve heard there has been a slight improvement. I am confident that more people will get the message and do the right thing for the community, their neighbors and the environment. Folks can learn more on my website at www.newportbeachca.gov/poopfairy.

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Amy Senk is a long-time resident of Corona del Mar and a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

Capturing iconic Newport Beach and beyond...

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 Artwork by Don Krotee

“Point Loma Light” was built in 1855, located within today’s Cabrillo National Park at the end of Point Loma, San Diego. It is the 12th lighthouse in the U.S. The second building has been a quarters and storehouse. Today, the National Parks Service owns the park, and the lighthouse and building serves as a museum space that holds the original French lens. Point Loma’s elevation is more than 400 feet, and in dense fog the lighthouse keeper would fire a shotgun to warn ships of the presence of the rocky point. The painting, done from the artist’s reference photo, was created with transparent watercolor on handmade cotton paper.

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Artist Don Krotee has been a resident of Newport Beach since 1986. He is a board member of the Newport Heights Improvement Association and SPON, and is an architect who has been drawing and painting from an early age. His architectural marker drawings are featured periodically in

Stu News Newport.

Cirque Mei troupe from People’s Republic of China to come to Segerstrom Center

Renowned acrobatic troupe Cirque Mei comes to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for two performances on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 15 at 2 p.m. in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.

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Courtesy of scfta.org

Acrobatic Cirque Mei performers spin plates

From the People’s Republic of China, Cirque Mei brings a colorful celebration of traditional and contemporary Chinese circus acts. The company travels with a community of more than 130 circus performers who tour throughout China and the world performing many of the most popular Chinese circus routines, including hoops diving, Lion Dance, collective bicycle skills, flying meteors, foot juggling with umbrellas, female contortion and a ladder balancing act. 

Single tickets on sale now start at $29 and are available online at www.scfta.org, at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa, or by calling 714.556.2787. For inquiries about group ticket savings of 10 or more, call the Group Services office at 714.755.0236. 

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

Join the fun of Community Days at Crystal Cove

Join the fun of Community Days in the Historic District’s Education Commons, hosted by Crystal Cove Conservancy on Wednesdays, July 17 and 31 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Step back in time as the Education Commons comes to life with fun, historical activities for the whole family. Learn to sketch, make a one-of-a-kind sea glass creation, try your hand at a traditional craft, or explore the science of  Crystal Cove State Park.

Sea glass-wrapped jewelry combines art and nature

Check out Cottage #13, the Film and Media Center and Cottage #22, the Park and Marine Research Facility. Park in the Los Trancos lot (PCH inland at the Los Trancos stoplight, then walk across the street or take the shuttle).

For a calendar of upcoming events at Crystal Cove State Park, visit our Calendars section here.

Legacy, OC’s newest nightclub now open

Orange County’s nightlife scene is heating up this summer with Legacy, an upscale new nightclub now open in Newport Beach. Located near John Wayne Airport in the space formerly occupied by Envy Lounge, Legacy celebrated its grand opening on July 13, hosted by the social media powerhouse Arsenic.

Sammy Lakhany, a partner in Envy Lounge and the now sole owner of Legacy, has remodeled the space to create a more modern look in the 6,300-sq.-ft. club. In addition to a new state-of-the-art sound and LED lighting system, Legacy has a new 150-sq.-ft. video wall, and a 70-inch video screen on the front of the DJ booth to enhance the nightlife experience creating a super modern feel to the venue.

The sophisticated interior has a new white three-dimensional geometric pattern on the walls, metallic gray booths, and gray and black cocktail tables. An elevated stage was also removed to create a more open and spacious feel to the club.

Submitted photo

“There are very few venues in Orange County to enjoy music and dancing,” Lakhany said. “I wanted to create a more upscale and modern nightclub with a fresh feel and fun ambience.”

On Tuesdays, Legacy features Latin music and salsa dancing, while Friday and Saturday nights are a mix of EDM, Hip Hop and Top 40.

The club is open Tuesdays from 8-9 p.m. for salsa lessons, and open for dancing from 9 p.m.-2 a.m., as well as Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m.-2 a.m. with bottle service available for each night. Legacy will also launch an 18+ night on Thursdays later this summer.

Legacy is available to book private parties and corporate events. The venue can accommodate 250 guests for sit-down parties such as birthdays, anniversaries, bridal showers and other smaller get togethers.

Legacy is located at 4647 MacArthur Blvd. (off Birch) in Newport Beach. 

For more information, visit www.thelegacyoc.com or call 949.770.1422. Legacy OC can be found on Facebook and Instagram at @TheLegacyOC.

Human Options welcomes Rochelle Karr to board of directors

Human Options, a nonprofit dedicated to ending the cycle of relationship violence in Orange County, recently appointed Laguna Hills resident Rochelle Karr to its board of directors.

“We’re so thrilled to welcome Rochelle Karr to our board of directors – her passion for philanthropy and powerful connections will prove to be an asset as we work towards ending the cycle of relationship violence in Orange County,” said Human Options CEO Maricela Rios-Faust.

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Submitted photo

Human Options’ newest board member Rochelle Karr 

Karr, a graduate of UCLA, is the Director of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Alumni Relations at O’Melveny & Myers LLP in Newport Beach. Additionally, Karr chairs the board of directors for the Orange County American Heart Association, serves as a board member for the association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals, and is a member of the Women’s Philanthropy Fund with the United Way.

For more information on Human Options, visit www.humanoptions.org.

Lavender Days coming to Armstrong Gardens

From Thursday, July 25 through Sunday, July 28 from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., join in during the second annual Lavender Days and celebrate beautiful, blooming lavender at Armstrong Garden Center.

Lavender adds beauty and grace to the garden and thrives in our hot, dry climate. Its beloved flowers in purple or blue have an amazing aroma promoting calmness and wellness.

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The experts can help you choose from a wide selection of lavender for your needs. Lavenders are perfectly suited for California gardens. Join the class at 9 a.m. for “Lavender Explained.” The events are free of charge

Armstrong Garden Center is located at 500 E. Coast Highway, Newport Beach.

For a calendar of upcoming Home & Garden happenings, visit our Calendars section here.

Art lovers – come find out more at Beyond the Canvas tonight

The OASIS Senior Center is offering a special program tonight, July 16 at 6 p.m. Join in the discussion at “Beyond the Canvas: Henri Matisse,” presented by Professor Jacqueline Hahn in the Event Center.

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Courtesy of pixels.com

“Red Room Painting” by Henri Matisse

Henri Matisse (1869-1954) was a French artist, known for both his use of color and his fluid and original draftsmanship. He was a draftsman, printmaker and sculptor, but is known primarily
as a painter. Matisse is commonly regarded, along with Pablo Picasso, as one of the artists who best helped to define the revolutionary developments in the visual arts throughout the opening decades of the 20th century, responsible for significant developments in painting and sculpture.

Call 949.644.3244 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to RSVP for this free event. OASIS Senior Center is located at 801 Narcissus Ave., Corona del Mar. Parking is free.

For a calendar of upcoming OASIS Senior Center events, visit our Calendars section here.

Crystal Cove Conservancy names new president and CEO

Crystal Cove Conservancy (The Conservancy), the nonprofit dedicated to preserving the resources of Crystal Cove State Park, has announced Kate Wheeler will take over as president and CEO, effective August 12. She brings more than 20 years of nonprofit experience, including fundraising, education, finance and community engagement, to The Conservancy, most recently serving as Director of Strategic Relationships at the International Fund for Animal Welfare and prior to that as Director of Partnership Development at The Conservancy from 2015-2017.

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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy

Kate Wheeler, new president and CEO of Crystal Cove Conservancy

“It’s such a wonderful turn of events to return to Crystal Cove in this new role,” Wheeler said. “The Cove is an incredibly special place for the locals, visitors, students, artists and conservationists – it will be an honor to lead its dedicated team to expand educational opportunities and continue to preserve and restore the legacy of Crystal Cove.”

“Kate is the right leader for The Conservancy and we are thrilled to not only have her back on the team, but to lead our organization into the future,” said Jeff Cole, chairman of the board. “We believe her extensive experience in the nonprofit sector and her solid understanding of The Conservancy’s operations make her the ideal choice.”

Wheeler, a resident of Laguna Niguel, has worked in the nonprofit sector since 1994, primarily focused on helping organizations achieve their programmatic missions through fund development, community engagement and strategic planning for national and international organizations. Wheeler holds a master’s degree in Nonprofit Leadership from the University of San Diego and has taught at both USD and National University’s Sanford Institute of Philanthropy. She will work alongside The Conservancy’s staff and board of directors to move critical initiatives forward at an important time in the Cove’s history.

For more information about The Conservancy, visit www.crystalcove.org.

Xponential Fitness Brands to host month-long fundraiser benefitting Miracles For Kids

Throughout the month of July, four Xponential Fitness brands including Club Pilates, StretchLab, YogaSix and AKT will partner with Miracles for Kids, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families with critically ill children battle bankruptcy, homelessness, hunger and depression, for the Month of Miracles campaign. This month-long campaign will consist of unique fundraisers, special events and give back promotions with the goal of raising awareness and funds to benefit the organization.

“The Miracles for Kids team is beyond thankful for the ongoing support we’ve received from Xponential Fitness over the years,” said Autumn Strier, co-founder and CEO of Miracles for Kids. “Last year’s Month of Miracles campaign with Club Pilates was a huge success, raising over $31,000 for our families in need. We’re thrilled to expand the campaign this year to four leading fitness brands and we look forward to another special month of making miracles.”

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Submitted photo

Club Pilates once again joins the Miracles for Kids fundraising campaign

Club Pilates, with a studio in Newport Beach, along with StretchLab, YogaSix, and AKT studios throughout California are participating in this year’s campaign. As a two-year partner of Miracles for Kids and a seasoned Month of Miracles participant, Club Pilates is joining again this year by offering fun, in-store fundraising opportunities. Anyone is welcome to visit one of their 150+ locations throughout California and make a $10 or $20 donation to Miracles for Kids and sign a personalized token of support to add to their in-studio displays. More information is available at http://miraclesforkids.org/clubpilates.

“Xponential Fitness is honored to be taking part in our second Month of Miracles campaign with three additional fitness concepts participating,” said Anthony Geisler, CEO of Xponential Fitness. “The Club Pilates team was thrilled to be able to make an impact for Miracles for Kids and its families last year and this year, we are aiming to top it.”

Club Pilates is located in the Bayside Shopping Center at 1040 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach. For additional information about Miracles for Kids, go to www.miraclesforkids.org.

Breaking News in Newport Beach

OEX abandons ship in Transpac, then sinks; crew saved by Pyewacket

OEX, a Santa Cruz 70 offshore racing yacht, was abandoned at sea yesterday following a rudder issue some 242 miles southwest of San Diego while participating in the 2019 Transpac Yacht Race. 

While the crew of OEX was forced to abandon ship after it began taking on water, a fellow race competitor, Pyewacket, owned by Roy Disney, managed to rescue all nine OEX crew members. 

According to early reports, “everyone is safe” and on their way back to the mainland. They were expected to arrive this morning in Marina del Rey.

OEX, skippered by John Sangmeister out of Long Beach, sent out a mayday around 2 a.m. and sunk about 3 a.m. The yacht was owned by Stagg Yachts and has an estimated price tag of $575,000.

Interestingly enough, another boat, the multihull Maserati Multi 70, also competing in the race, struck a large unspecified floating device that came out of the water by up to one meter, damaging the left hull bow and rudder wing.

Following repairs, the Maserati Multi 70 resumed sailing.

The Transpac, or Transpacific Yacht Race, is a 2,225 nautical mile race from Pt. Fermin, off San Pedro, to Hawaii. Racing began last Wednesday, July 10.

Both Pyewacket and OEX competed in this year’s Newport to Ensenada, however, both posted DNFs.

Hagestad fades in final round of Players Amateur, finishes second

Big Canyon’s Stewart Hagestad appeared to be in control heading into the final round of the 20th Annual Players Amateur being played at the Berkeley Hall Club in Bluffton, South Carolina, over the weekend. Entering with a five-shot lead over the field, Hagestad shot 75.

That lead evaporated throughout the day as Georgia senior golfer Spencer Ralston fired a final-round 63 to make up an 11-shot deficit and win by one at 19-under.

Hagestad had a chance coming into 18 needing only a par to tie but suffered one of his five bogeys on the day.

Hagestad had opened play with a course record 61 last Thursday and was looking at going wire-to-wire.

Newport Beach – A Look Back

Photo series courtesy of Balboa Island Museum & Historical Society

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In 1980, Disneyland celebrated its 25th anniversary. In Newport Harbor the same year, the Chamber of Commerce Commodore’s Club chose Disney’s 25th anniversary for that year’s Character Parade theme. Pirates, ghosts and Mickey Mouse filled the harbor as the parade participants went all out, sharing their excitement with onlookers and each other.

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..

We Care Wednesdays returns to OC Fair tomorrow

Receive free admission to the OC Fair tomorrow, Wednesday, July 17, by bringing $5 worth of unopened, brand new school supplies to the OC Fair & Events Center. 

Donations collected will benefit the Share Our Selves Back to School program. The Share Our Selves Back to School Program aims to close the educational gap for low-income K-12 students. 

Submitted Photo

We Care Wednesdays volunteers showcase donations

We Care Wednesdays will take place every Wednesday for the duration of the OC Fair. Proceeds will go towards a different program each week.

The OC Fair opened on July 12 and runs through August 11. This year’s theme is “Acres of Fun.” 

For more information, visit www.ocfair.com.

City Manager’s Updates

From the desk of Grace Leung

Balboa Village Advisory Committee Meeting – The Balboa Village Advisory Committee (BVAC) will meet next Wednesday, July 17, at Marina Park. The meeting will begin at 4 p.m. The BVAC will hear updates on efforts to revamp wayfinding signage in and around the Village. 

Also at this meeting, the BVAC will review its progress with addressing the strategies identified in the City Council-approved Balboa Village Master Plan. Initially formed in September 2012, the BVAC was tasked with overseeing the vetting and implementation of the recommended strategies, including a trolley program and streetscape improvements.

The BVAC meets monthly on the third Wednesday of each month at Marina Park on an as-needed basis. For additional information, check the City’s webpage here.

Vivante Senior Housing Update – On Thursday, July 18, the Planning Commission will hear an application for Vivante Senior Housing. The project consists of 90 senior housing dwelling units and a 27-bed memory care facility located on the former Orange County Museum of Art and administrative office building sites at 850 and 856 San Clemente Drive. The project includes requests for a General Plan amendment, Planned Community Development Plan amendment, development agreement, major site development review, conditional use permit, lot merger and EIR addendum. The community is encouraged to attend the Planning Commission meeting, which will start at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. The final Planning Commission agenda can be accessed by clicking here. The City’s project webpage also provides additional background information and project status updates. 

Uptown Newport Open – A temporary certificate of occupancy was issued for the South Building of Uptown phase 1 located at 4201 Jamboree Rd. Uptown is permitted to operate their business center and phase their tenants’ move-in dates. This phase has released 94 units of various types in five stories with limited access to amenities as the building is being completed. The use of the business center allows the developer to write contractual agreements with tenants and conduct tours of the various models. The remainder of the South Building will be released in two phases to allow safe occupancy for the residents while the finishes are being completed. 

Western Snowy Plover Plan Submitted – The Planning Division has submitted the Western Snowy Plover Management Plan for East Balboa Peninsula Beaches (Plan) to the California Coastal Commission for their review. The Western Snowy Plover (WSP) is a federally designated threatened species and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service has designated the beach area between B and G Streets as critical habitat for the WSP. The area also contains protected native dune habitat. 

The Plan includes provisions for habitat management and dune restoration that takes into account predator management, recreation management, municipal operations in and around the critical habitat, signage and public education. Finally, and most importantly, the Plan includes procedures for habitat monitoring and an adaptive management component that allows the Plan to be modified and adjusted to changing habitat and WSP population conditions observed through the monitoring. 

The Plan was prepared by biologists from Glen Lukos Associates. However, the preparation was truly a collaborative effort that included input by the many City departments that work in and around the critical habitat area. The preparation of the plan also included input from residents and other interested groups received at three public meetings and through written correspondence. 

Implementation of the Plan, which includes removal of the two fenced areas, requires approval of a Coastal Development Permit. City staff will now wait to hear from Coastal Commission staff regarding any suggested changes before advancing the Plan to a public hearing before the Coastal Commission. The Plan can be accessed on the City website at www.newportbeachca.gov/snowyplover.

East Ocean Front Encroachment Program – The California Coastal Commission unanimously denied the City’s request to establish a program where property owners along East Ocean Front in the Peninsula Point area could lease a 15-foot area in front of their properties from the City to have patios and landscaping. The significant funds that would have been raised would have supported public access improvements in the area as well as other program improvements for visitors to the area. The program was patterned after an identical and successful program the Commission authorized in 1992 for the West Newport area that led to public access improvements. The Commission cited concerns about impacts to the adjacent dune and Western Snowy Plover habitat, use of tidelands, sea level rise, and direct impact to public access by excluding the public from the specific area that would have been leased. They also determined the program would be antithetical to environmental justice principles, a new state-authorized consideration the Coastal Commission can apply to their decisions. What’s next? Within 60 days, the City will file a Coastal Development Permit to remove and restore the unpermitted improvements installed on the beach by homeowners. 

Natural Disasters – As Southern California is on heightened earthquake alert, the time is now to get you, your family, and neighborhood prepared for any unexpected emergency. The City of Newport Beach encourages all community members to sign up for emergency alerts, build a disaster supply kit and take the City’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.

–Sign up to receive City emergency alerts at www.alertoc.com.

–Build or purchase a disaster supply kit.

–Take the City’s Community Emergency Response Team training that teaches community members basic disaster preparedness skills, which can assist during an emergency. The next classes begin in September. For more information on the CERT program, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

–Attend the Disaster Preparedness Expo on Saturday, Sept. 7 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the City Hall Civic Center, hosted by the City.

–To learn more, go to the City’s website here. The City provides disaster preparedness and hands only CPR training to any requesting group in the city. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to schedule your training. 

Movie in the Park – Movie in the Park season is in full swing with an exciting lineup of events over the remainder of the summer. The events feature crafts and games for kids, free popcorn and candy, and a popular movie for the family to enjoy on our gigantic inflatable movie screen at sundown. Bring a lawn chair and your favorite blanket for a movie under the stars.

–July 19 at Cliff Drive Park: Lego Movie 2

–August 23 at Grant Howald Park: Mary Poppins Returns

–September 20 at Bayview Park: Hotel Transylvania 3

2018-10 Playground Improvement Projects – The City recently renovated three playgrounds at Cliff Drive, Channel Place and Eastbluff Parks, just in time for summer fun. Cliff Drive received a new shade fabric. Channel Place and Eastbluff parks received new playground equipment. All the parks either received new rubber surfacing, sand or both. Ready, set, play! 

Streetlight Improvement Projects – The 2018-19 Streetlight Improvement project is almost complete. The project upgraded three circuits and converted lamp heads to more efficient LED lighting in a portion of the Eastbluff neighborhood, west of Eastbluff Drive and south of Vista Del Sol. At this time, the Public Works staff is reviewing proposals for the design of the 2019-20 Streetlight Improvement project. 

Facilities Painting – The City’s facilities painting project is moving along. The contractor has completed most of the locations including the Central Library, Community Youth Center, Lifeguard Headquarters and many Utilities facilities. They will be coming to the Civic Center Park and parking structure soon, so please keep an eye out for wet paint. 

Awarded $1.5M Grant from Federal WaterSMART Program – The Utilities Department is pleased to announce the Federal Bureau of Reclamation has tentatively awarded a $1.5 million grant for the City’s Advanced (Water) Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project. The project was deemed as one of the most qualified of applications for bringing about measurable municipal water and cost savings under the Bureau’s WaterSMART Program. The City’s AMI project will install new “smart meters” and provide customers direct access to water usage information and improved customer service. The 250-meter AMI Proof of Performance phase is currently underway and this grant award will offset the future project expected to begin next year. 

2019 Drinking Water Quality Report – The Utilities Department has prepared the annual drinking water quality report covering the 2018 calendar year. This annual report has been recently mailed to all Newport Beach water customers and is also found on the City’s website: www.newportbeachca.gov/home/showdocument?id=64294.

The City of Newport Beach Utilities Department vigilantly safeguards its water supply and as in years past, the water delivered to your home and business meets the quality standards required by federal and state regulatory agencies. For information about the report or water quality information in general, please contact the City Utilities Department at 949.644.3011.

Inspiring ocean views

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Photo by Michelle Mar (Instagram @msmichellemar)

“The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul.” -Robert Wyland

Summer sunset colors 

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Photo by Michelle Mar (Instagram @msmichellemar)

Soft pastel tones paint the horizon during recent summer sunset

Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Flight of Newport Beach sails Sunday

The Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce organizes the annual Flight of Newport Beach, this year being the 84th. It’s comprised of two racing classes, the Laser and the Harbor 20.

The course for each is inside the Bay, starting and finishing off the south side of Balboa Island.

The races take place this Sunday, July 21.

Yesterday afternoon I was speaking to one of the Commodores’ race organizers, Brett Hemphill. Brett says flat out, “We need more entries!”

It’s easy. Go here, fill out the form and you’re in.

Now, there’s a bunch of categories to enter under both classes that make the day that much more fun. Maybe you’re the oldest, the youngest boy, the youngest girl, or perhaps you want to decorate your boat. There are also prizes for first finishing girl, first couple and first parent/child.

There are so many prizes you’re almost bound to win something, or maybe not. But, for the overall winner in both classes there are some big prizes. In the Laser class, you can win a new sail valued at $650. In the Harbor 20 class, you can win paint, and not just any paint. You can win a gallon of anti-fouling paint, worth $250. Of course, anti-fouling paint protects the underwater hull, so it’s important.

Courtesy of Philip Thompson

Harbor 20 trophies

Also, both class winners will receive a gift certificate to The Sailing Pro Shop on Newport Blvd.

Okay, I know what you’re saying to yourself, that’s still not enough. Well, hold on, you also get a set of Ginsu Knives. Actually, no. But you are invited to an after-party at the Balboa Yacht Club. There you’ll enjoy refreshments and witness the presentation of awards.

What a day!

So, fill out the app and go have some fun.

• • •

The Homeless Task Force Special Meeting is this Monday, July 22, from 4-6 p.m. in the Central Library's Friends Meeting Room at1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach. It’s an important meeting, and why you ask?

When I recently visited the Sculpture Garden near City Hall, I noticed sleeping bags and other miscellaneous property under the tables across the bridge, evidently belonging to some homeless folks.

Last week, a story emerged about homeless people and even tents taking hold a little further up near the bus station turnaround on Avocado Ave.

This problem is not going to go away without some planning and attention. Hopefully, with this group and the recent $3 million commitment by Hoag Hospital toward the issue, we have the start.

Meetings like the one mentioned about are always open to the public if you want to offer your two cents.

• • •

A couple of Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce events this week: Government Affairs Committee features Newport Beach City Attorney Aaron Harp this Thursday, July 18, at the Chamber office at 8 a.m. The Chamber, if you don’t know, is located at 4343 Von Karman.

And, then Friday, July 19, Chamber President & CEO Steve Rosansky puts on his apron and barbecues burgers and the like “By the Lake,” at the Chamber offices. They advertise it as food, fun and friends. It runs from 4-6 p.m.

• • •

Speaking of burgers, don’t forget it’s Burger Week and there are 60 participating restaurants throughout Orange County, including a number in Newport Beach. It’s prix fixe pricing. Check it all out at www.burgerweek.com.

(Link “here” through to the following URL: https://flightofnewportbeach.com/registration)

OC Fair opens its gates

Story and photos by Emily Spain

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The iconic OC Fair sign greets Opening Day attendees 

Come one, come all! The OC Fair officially kicked off its annual summer season on Friday, July 12. In the spirit of Opening Day, attendees were treated to free Fair admission and parking. Many braved the long admission lines, but as fairgoer Micaela Hart said, “The crowds and lines are part of the opening day experience, nothing beats free admission to the fair.”

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Fairgoers race down the Euro Slide

Once in the fairgrounds, fairgoers had a plethora of attractions and food stands to discover. Fair staples like Chicken Charlies were grilling traditional fair foods and serving up new concoctions like fried hummus, ice cream chicken sandwiches and buffalo chicken chimichangas. 

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Chicken Charlies signage highlights a few of the food stand’s 2019 menu items

Arguably one of the best parts of the OC Fair is getting to see and interact with the animals. Whether you are a devout animal lover or not, there is so much to explore in the livestock areas of the Fair. Make sure to catch one of the junior livestock auctions, which benefit agriculture education programs like 4-H and FFA, during your visit.

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Even the pigs need a nap due to the excitement of Opening Day

Feeling lucky? Try your luck at the dozens of games the Fair has to offer. Fairgoer John Russell said the trick to winning one of the coveted, giant stuffed animals is to “pick a game you actually want to play not just the one that looks the easiest. It helps to be friendly with the game attendants, they might give you free tries if you’re close to winning.”

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Two girls winning big at the bottle toss game

The OC Fair runs until August 11 and is open Wednesday through Friday, 12 p.m. to midnight, and Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.- midnight. General admission is $12 on Wednesdays-Fridays, and $14 Saturday and Sunday.

For more information on the OC Fair events and offers, visit www.ocfair.com.

Check out more photos from the OC Fair Opening Day below

Bruegger’s Bagels earns CdM Business Beautification Award

Come celebrate Bruegger’s Bagels on Friday, July 26 at 11 a.m. as the eatery is presented with the CdM Business Beautification Award by the CdM Business Improvement District.

“Storefront enhancements contributing to the overall character and aesthetics of the CdM village” earned Bruegger’s Bagels this prestigious honor.

Submitted photo

Storefront enhancements made to CdM Bruegger’s Bagels location in Corona del Mar

Refreshments from Kean Coffee, sandwiches and sweet treats will be served. Attendees will receive gift coupons and have the chance to take part in an opportunity drawing for gift baskets.

Bruegger’s Bagels is located at 2743 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar.

CdM Chamber of Commerce to host social summer networking event 

Join the CdM Chamber of Commerce for a Social Summer Networking event at Roger’s Gardens on Tuesday, July 30 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Enjoy appetizers and refreshments provided by Farmhouse and live music by Don Covel.

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Courtesy of CdM Chamber

Musician Don Covel 

Bring a friend and add business and social contacts. Admission to the event is free to CdM Chamber members and $20 for guests. Enter at the main entrance to the Gardens.

To RSVP to the event, visit www.cdmchamber.com.

Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens is located at 2301 San Joaquin Hills Road, Corona del Mar.

Gov Cup Week is kicked off and it’s clear sailing

The 53rd Governor’s Cup International Youth Match Racing Championship, hosted by the Balboa Yacht Club, officially got underway last evening with the opening night “Welcome Dinner” and the “Meet the Teams” event.

Teams from Australia, Denmark, Great Britain, New Zealand, Sweden and the United States will compete throughout the week, first in a multi-day round robin event, followed by the semi-finals Friday afternoon and the finals on Saturday.

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Courtesy of Balboa Yacht Club

The skippers competing in the event include David Wood (USA), from the BYC; Cameron Feves (USA), competing out of the Cabrillo Beach YC; Finn Tapper from Australia; Frank Dair (USA), competing out of the California YC; Jack Parkin (USA,) Riverside YC and Stanford Sailing Team; Jeppe Borch from Denmark; Jordan Stevenson from New Zealand; Leonard Takahashi from New Zealand; Mans Holmberg from Sweden; Matt Whitfield from the UK; Nick Egnot-Johnson New Zealand and Clare Costanzo from Australia.

Racing continues today through Thursday with the top four teams advancing to the semi-finals on Friday, followed by the finals on Saturday.

The Gov Cup is the oldest and considered one of the most prestigious youth match racing regattas in the world. It was first held in 1967, following the grant of the Deed of Gift for the Governor’s Cup to the BYC by then-California Governor Ronald Reagan. 

The race was designated “for the purpose of encouraging Youth Racing in the State of California and the recognition of the skill and high performance of those men and women under twenty years of age.”

Newport Beach Chamber to hold business luncheon on Wednesday

The Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce invites locals to attend its Business Luncheon Series on Wednesday, July 17 from 11:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, 455 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach.

Featured speaker Richard Franzini will address, “What happened? Mitigating the unintended consequences of your business decisions.”

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Courtesy of NB Chamber

Richard Franzini is the featured luncheon speaker on Wednesday

Join Franzini, author of Killing Cats Leads to Rats, for a look at how the “unintended consequences” of your decisions can damage a firm’s performance and undermine employee confidence in their leaders.

Using real world stories, Franzini will talk about companies who were failed by their leaders’ inability to predict and respond to the unintended consequences of their strategic decisions and will explain a six-step strategy for success.

The cost is $30 for Chamber members with reservations or $40 for members at the door and potential members. Admission includes lunch and free parking; valet parking is available. Bring your business cards and marketing materials to display.

Register at www.newportbeach.com or by calling Pam Smith at 949.729.4411.

OC Burger Week kicks off with on-air chef event

On Saturday, July 13, The Country Club restaurant hosted a special chef event to kick off OC Burger Week, which began July 14 and continues through July 20.

Highlighting the festivities was a KFI AM 640 live remote of “The Fork Report” with Neil Saavedra and co-hosts Geoffrey Kutrick, co-founder/CEO of the Foodbeast and Simon Majumdar from the Food Network, who sampled myriad inventive burgers creatively prepared by OC Burger Week participating chefs.

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Photos by Lana Johnson

Food Network’s Simon Majumdar and Pam Waitt, president of the OC Restaurant Association

Attendees enjoyed complimentary bison burgers with bone marrow, shishito jam and morbier cheese, courtesy of The Country Club, and kimchi pork burgers, with cheddar cheese, house made kimchi slaw, crispy pork rinds and avocado ginger aioli, courtesy of Wild Goose Tavern, along with live music. 

Among the chefs and restaurateurs who were on-air was Chef Elyse Avila-Smith of Avila’s El Ranchito, whose burger created for Burger Week and “The Fork Report’s” Saavedra is the Hamburgesa Saavedra, a juicy, handmade 8 oz. ground beef patty topped with pulled carnitas, melted jack cheese, guacamole and Avila’s Mexican cream on a toasted brioche bun. It is served with a fried jalapeño and available at the Santa Ana location.

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Simon Majumdar gets ready to try Chef Elyse Avila-Smith’s Hamburgesa Saavedra

During OC Burger Week, enjoy a variety of burgers from nearly 60 local, participating restaurants. Menus are priced at $10, $15 and $20 and luxe burger menus at $25.

Participating Newport Beach restaurants include: Back Bay Bistro, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, Cappy’s Café, Fable & Spirit, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Great Maple, Juliette Kitchen and Bar, Olea, Sidedoor and Zov’s.

Many of the participating restaurants will also offer Burger Week cocktail specials featuring Effen Vodka, Maker’s Mark, Cruzan Tequila and Hornitos Tequila. 

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Attendees sampled tasty kimchi pork burgers

 “Burger Week gives everyone another reason to dine out and explore Orange County restaurants, and the event also gives chefs an opportunity to utilize creativity and innovation to create an experience around America’s favorite sandwich, the Burger,” explained Pamela Waitt, president of the OC Restaurant Association and producer of Burger Week. “You can expect to see a variety of burgers on each menu, with something to suit everyone’s palate, lifestyle choice and, of course, budget!”

For more information on OC Burger Week and a list of all participating restaurants, visit www.burgerweek.com.

“Billionaire Row” home sells for $20 million cash

In the 1960s, a visionary developer named Charles (Charley) Hester built a tract of homes on the oceanfront and the hills east of Coast Highway and called the communities Cameo Shores and Cameo Highlands.

This, of course, was done prior to the major building expansion and transformation of the Corona del Mar oceanfront into some of the most coveted and costly residential oceanfront properties in the world, 

Many of the homes there originally sold for under $35,000, which was considered “pricey” back in the day.

Fast forward some 60 years. May 2019, Adrienne Brandes closes a landmark $20 million sale of 4541 Brighton Road, on what today is known as “Billionaire Row.” 

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Submitted photo

From $35,000 to $20 million is quite a journey. Of course, almost none of the original Hester homes of the old era have survived, being replaced by superb architectural designs along the oceanfront landscape.

The Brighton Road sale is an example of the often shocking state of today’s ultra-high, residential market. The Cameo Shores residence is a ground up contemporary redesign project that was recently completed, following several years of planning and construction. It includes stunning coastal views and state-of-the-art “everything.” 

Brandes brought in her client, a European billionaire she had become acquainted with, and, following serious negotiations, reached a deal. 

The $20 million sale price was all cash, with a 12-day escrow. Everything closed on time, without complications and no drama.

Adrienne Brandes is a real estate professional with Surterre Properties.

Learn to Fly Contest winners to take flight this summer

By Dianne Titterington-Machad for John Wayne Airport

The Orange County Chapter of the Ninety-Nines, International Organization of Women Pilots in conjunction with two of John Wayne Airport’s premier flight schools, Sunrise Aviation and Orange County Flight Center, sponsored the fourth Why I Want to Learn to Fly Essay Contest. The Contest is open to teens ages 14 to 18 years who must submit a 300- to 500-word essay. The 10 selected winners each receive a flight lesson, along with Rod Machado’s 40-hour interactive eLearning ground school, to prepare for the private pilot written exam and check ride. 

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Courtesy of OC99s

OC99 pilot snaps a selfie in the pilot’s seat

With their first flying lesson, students of every academic level become more excited about STEM topics. It inspires them to study more earnestly, develop greater confidence and experience an authentic increase in self-esteem. Students in flight training also quickly mature in their general judgment and decision-making skills.

The pilot shortage is increasing, with forecasts indicating 558,000 new commercial airline pilots will be needed over the next 20 years, along with other flying opportunities. The Ninety-Nines co-sponsor the essay contest as a way to get young people interested in flying and hopefully pursue it as a career.

For more information on the Ninety-Nines, visit www.oc99s.sws99s.org.

Movie Mondays continues with Mean Girls

On Monday, July 15, Segerstrom Center for the Arts is showing Mean Girls on the big screen at Julianne and George Argyros Plaza beginning at 7 p.m.

Synopsis: In Mean Girls, Lindsey Lohan plays Cady Heron, who becomes a hit with The Plastics, the A-list girl clique at her new school – that is, until she makes the mistake of falling for Aaron Samuels, the ex-boyfriend of alpha Plastic Regina George (Rachel McAdams).

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This event is free and fun for the whole family. Don’t forget your beach chairs, blankets and a picnic dinner, or you can grab something at George’s Café.

Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa.

Mariinsky Ballet and Orchestra open International Dance Series this October

Segerstrom Center for the Arts welcomes the return of Russia’s renowned Mariinsky Ballet and Orchestra on October 16-20 in Segerstrom Hall. The prominent company from St. Petersburg opens the Center’s 2019-2020 International Dance Season performing Marius Petipa’s timeless epic “La Bayadère.”

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Photo by Natasha Razina © State Academic Mariinsky Theatre

Ozana Skorik in “La Bayadère”

Set against the sweeping vistas and grand temples of mystical India, this Russian classic is a glorious tale of forbidden love and betrayal. One of the most popular full-length works in the classical ballet canon, “La Bayadère” is a tour de force with performances by the Mariinsky’s incomparable ballet stars and the evocative score of Ludwig Minkus performed live by the Mariinsky Orchestra.

Tickets for “La Bayadère” and the entire 2019-2020 International Dance Season will go on sale Monday, July 15 at 10 a.m. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.scfta.org, at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa, or by calling 714.556.2787. For inquiries about group ticket discounts for 10 or more, call the Group Services office at 714.755.0236. 

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

OC Fair opens today with OC Brew Hee Haw

The 129th annual OC Fair opens today, Friday, July 12, with all of the crazy food, great rides, summer concerts and one amazing craft beer festival.

This year, OC Brew Hee Haw is moving into The Hangar and the 6th annual craft beer roundup is set to showcase more than 80 regional favorite and rarely seen craft beers on July 12 and 13.

There will be live entertainment from the Orange County Oingo Boingo Tribute band “Dead Man’s Party” during Friday’s session and Los Angeles 80s tribute act “Fast Times” during both Saturday sessions.

Courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center

The new location at The Hangar offers room for more breweries than ever before, with the brewery lineup including Artifex Brewery, Chapman Crafted Beer, Four Sons Brewing, Burgeon Beer Co., Beachwood Brewing, Pizza Port Brewing Co., Stereo Brewing, Bottle Logic Brewing, Unsung Brewing Co. and many more.

Tastings will be held in three sessions from 8-11 p.m. on Friday; and 1:30-4:30 p.m. and 7:30-10:30 p.m. on Saturday. VIP guests are invited one hour early for additional tasting time.

Tickets include free OC Fair admission, so attendees can come for the beer and stay for the Fair. OC Brew Hee Haw’s location at The Hangar offers attendees easy access to the OC Fair’s vendors and attractions. Guests can have “Acres of Fun” with the OC Fair’s annual pig races, carnival games, extensive Fair food options and classic rides.

Tickets to the 6th Annual OC Brew Hee Haw at the OC Fair are available for purchase at www.BreeHeeHaw.com. Ticket prices are $55 each and, if available, day-of prices are $65 each. VIP tickets are available for $65 each and, if available, $75 day-of ticket.

The Orange County Fair & Event Center is located at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. For more information, visit www.ocfair.com.

Feves and Wood named last two skippers for Governor’s Cup, set for July 15-20

Cameron Feves of Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club in Los Angeles and David Wood of host Balboa Yacht Club claimed the last two spots in the 53rd Governor’s Cup International Youth Match Racing Championship, presented by Disc Sports and Spine Center, which will start on Monday, July 15 at Balboa Yacht Club. 

The Governor’s Cup – for skippers and crews that have not reached their 23rd birthday – is the most prestigious and oldest youth match racing regatta in the world. Alumni have reached the top of the sport including the America’s Cup, the Congressional Cup, and in events very different than the GovCup, including the Olympics and Round the World Race. The quality of this year’s skippers is likely to result in the granting of “Grade 1” status by World Sailing for the second consecutive year. Last year’s organizers believe the 2018 Grade 1 designation was the first ever for an age-limited event, with that grading normally reserved for regattas dominated by professional sailors. 

Ten skippers from six countries had previously been named by BYC based on resumes, but the last two spots were both decided based on the results of the U.S. Youth Match Racing Championship for the Rose Cup held June 28-30 in San Diego. Feves won the Rose Cup and received the automatic invitation extended to the winner, and Wood won the host club invitation by beating fellow club member, Jeffrey Petersen, in the petit final of the Rose Cup for third place. BYC had decided that creating a “sail off” for the spot within the Rose Cup was the fairest way to pick among these two accomplished match racers. 

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Photo by Tom Walker

Courtesy of Balboa Yacht Club

Close downwind action at a previous Governor’s Cup International Youth Match Racing Championship

Feves and Wood will join an international group of the best youth match racers in the world at the “GovCup.” Leonard Takahashi (NZL) is a product of the Performance Programme of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, as are his fellow Kiwi invitees, Jordan Stevenson and Nick Egnot-Johnson. Observers are looking forward to seeing if two-time GovCup runner-up Takahashi can quickly re-sharpen his match racing skills given that he has skipped match racing for much of the last year, opting instead to sail foiling catamarans for the Japanese “SailGP” professional team (Takahashi has dual citizenship). He will be pushed hard by both Stevenson and Egnot-Johnson, who have focused on and excelled in both age-limited and open regattas in the U.S., Australia and New Zealand since the last GovCup. 

Two-time United Kingdom Youth and Intercollegiate Match Racing Champion, Matt Whitfield, will return for his third and final Governor’s Cup, representing Great Britain and his native Wales. Two European teams will also compete, led by Mans Holmberg, a World Sailing top-25 ranked skipper based largely on his success on the professional World Match Racing Tour, and top Scandinavian match race skipper Jeppe Borch of Denmark. 

Former U.S. Youth Match Racing champion Jack Parkin (Riverside YC/Stanford Sailing Team) will again sail in the Governor’s Cup after finishing just out of the semi-finals in his first GovCup last year, and Frank Dair, (California YC), who won Australia’s Musto Youth MR Championship and was a podium finisher at Australia’s Harken series last fall, will complete the four team U.S. contingent.

Teams from Australia have been prominent in GovCup history and the country is again well represented by two teams from rival New South Wales clubs. Finn Tapper will represent the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and will hope to emulate last year’s winner from CYCA, Harry Price, who won his second Cup in 2018. GovCup veteran and the world’s 13th ranked female match racing skipper, Clare Costanzo, will sail in her third and final GovCup representing Australia’s Royal Prince Alfred YC, which also has been regularly represented in the top ranks of past Governor’s Cups. 

The Governor’s Cup’s new presenting sponsor is Disc Sports and Spine Institute, founded by BYC member Dr. Rob Bray. One of the top orthopedic surgeons in the U.S., Dr. Bray and his wife, Tracey Kenney-Bray, are committed sailors and supporters at BYC and beyond. In 2013, Dr. Bray served as team doctor for the Oracle Team USA America’s Cup team. 

For more information, visit www.govcupracing.com.

Human Options raises $520,000+ at gala

Human Options, an Orange County-based nonprofit dedicated to ending the cycle of relationship violence, hosted its 2019 Serious Fun Gala on May 11 at the Balboa Bay Resort. The event brought together more than 300 influential community leaders for “One Night in Paris,” helping raise more than $520,000 in critical funds for Human Options’ life-changing services and programs that ensure every person and family in Orange County experiences safe and healthy relationships, free from fear.

During the event, Human Options honored Newport Beach resident and Board Vice President Celina Doka, Audit Partner in KPMG’s Orange County office, with the 2019 DOVE Award for her long-standing commitment to advocating for those affected by relationship violence. As a board member since 1996, Doka has made a significant impact at Human Options and in the community, helping to shape the organization and expand their services, while also serving as a beacon of light to those in need.

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Photos by Ann Chatillon

2019 DOVE Award honoree Celina Doka addresses guests at the Human Options Serious Fun Gala

Guests were transported to the City of Light as they experienced a “One Night in Paris”-themed evening, while raising critical funds for Human Options’ life-changing programs. The night kicked off with hosted cocktails, an opportunity drawing with a stunning 2.50 carat clear quartz and diamond pendant necklace donated by Winston’s Crown Jewelers, along with a silent auction. Festivities continued with captivating Cabaret entertainment by the Heart of Samba and an exciting live auction that featured a Seine River cruise from Normandy to Paris, a thrilling Pace Car ride at the 2020 Acura Grand Prix, a luxurious getaway to Hawaii with Hilton Grand Vacations and more. The night ended with live entertainment from the ‘80s band Flashback Heart Attack. 

“As we work to move the community toward collective change, we depend on the commitment of supporters like Celina to further our vision of a future in which every person and family in Orange County experiences safe, healthy relationships and lives free from fear,” said Maricela Rios-Faust, chief executive officer. “We are proud to honor Celina whose visionary leadership helps us break the cycle of relationship violence and makes the world a safer place for all.” 

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(L-R) Maricela Rios-Faust, CEO of Human Options; Susan Heller, event chair; Celina Doka, 2019 Dove Award honoree; Mark Clemens, gala honorary chair and Carol Carlile, gala honorary chair

Human Options is leading the way to break the cycle of domestic violence. The organization educated 15,948 community members on relationship violence prevention through outreach programs, responded to more than 5,300 calls for crisis support and intervention, offered 460 adults and children a safe place to stay in the shelter and transitional housing programs, and provided services and advocacy to more than 1,480 adults and children at six walk-in community-based domestic violence program locations.

Gala honorary chairs were Carol Carlile, managing director of business and practice development at HCVT and Mark Clemens, Orange County office managing partner at KPMG LLP; and event chair was Susan L. Heller, co-managing shareholder and chair, Global Trademark & Brand Management Practice at Greenberg Traurig LLP.

Gold Sponsors included Celina Doka & Forrest Wylder and Mark & Sunnie Wang, Hilton Grand Vacations, Jaffe Family Foundation and KPMG LLP. Silver Sponsors included Capital Group/Lisa & David Hummelberg, Edrington Americas, Greenberg Traurig/Susan L. Heller, Handel Sunrise Foundation, HCVT/Carol Carlile, Scott Stephenson, Donna Hansen, Michele I. & Abdo Khoury, Kristen Monson & Brad Horner, Mara & Keith Murray, Peter & Diana Robertson and Kerri & Danny Sonenshine. 

For more information about Human Options, visit www.humanoptions.org.

The Medallion Debutante Ball was held June 20

On Sunday, June 20, the Assistance League held The Medallion Debutante Ball at the Fashion Island Hotel, Newport Beach. Debutantes were represented from throughout Newport Beach, Corona del Mar and Newport Coast.

Photo by Darnall Photography

(L-R) Back Row: Parker Warden, Sumner Warden (CdMHS, Newport Coast), Luke Chelf, Lucy McFadin (CdMHS, Newport Heights), Steven Ferry, Isabelle Meegan (Sage Hill, CdM), Caroline Spain (CdMHS, CdM), Connery O’Neal, Bridgette Campbell, (CdMHS, Balboa Island) Chase Hartsell, Miles Richards (CdMHS, CdM), Trenton Bashaw

(L-R) Front Row: David Wood, Skylar Jacobsen (NHHS, Newport Heights), Jack Rogers, Sophie Birmingham (NHHS, Eastbluff), Nikki Lindh (NHHS, Westcliff/Dover Shores), Mason Lindh, Claire Hefner (NHHS, Bayshore), Harrington Bubb

The finest of collegiate tennis comes to Newport Beach in November

The Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) and Oracle announced yesterday, July 11, that Newport Beach Tennis Club and The Tennis Club at Newport Beach Country Club will serve as host sites for the 2019 Oracle ITA National Fall Championships November 6-10. The men’s and women’s finals will be held at Newport Beach Tennis Club.

The event returns to Southern California for the second time in the last three years. Arizona’s Surprise Tennis & Racquet Complex held the tournament in 2018. The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Indian Wells Tennis Garden co-hosted in 2017.

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Courtesy of OracleChallenferSeries.com

Newport Beach Tennis Club

“Oracle’s commitment to college tennis continues to help move our sport to the forefront of intercollegiate athletics,” ITA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Timothy Russell said. “The ITA is proud that our championships are some of the best in college sports. We are very excited to come to Newport Beach, which promises to ensure a fantastic student-athlete experience.”

The Newport Beach Tennis Club features 19 lighted tennis courts and a sunken center court with stadium seating. It has hosted numerous professional events throughout its history, including the Davis Cup and Oracle Challenger Series. The Tennis Club at Newport Beach offers 24 outdoor courts.

“Oracle remains committed to collegiate tennis and ensuring young players get the opportunity to improve their games and compete in great venues,” Oracle CEO Mark Hurd said. “We’re looking forward to seeing American collegians and juniors play some terrific tennis at this year’s Oracle ITA National Championships.” 

The Oracle ITA National Fall Championships features 128 of the nation’s top collegiate singles players (64 men and 64 women) and 64 doubles teams (32 men’s teams and 32 women’s teams). It is the only event on the collegiate tennis calendar that highlights competitors from all five divisions (NCAA Divisions I, II, III, NAIA and Junior College) playing in the same tournament. Now in its third year, the event replaced the ITA National Indoor Intercollegiate Championships.

The Oracle ITA National Fall Championships joins the Oracle ITA Masters as one of two major collegiate tournaments held in the Southern California area and co-sponsored by Oracle and the ITA. The Oracle Masters returns to Pepperdine University and the Malibu Racquet Club for the fifth consecutive year and is scheduled for September 26-29.

Carnival of the Animals concert geared to the young at heart

On Sunday, July 14 from 2-4:30 p.m., a special concert will take place at St. James Episcopal Church. This free performance geared to the young (and young at heart) features the evocative sounds of Camille Saint-Saëns’ “Carnival of the Animals,” where animals are described musically through an orchestra’s instruments.

There will be refreshments afterward, and children will be entertained with face painting and balloons. Childcare will be provided. Parking is available in the church lot across 32nd Street, and in metered parking around the church.

St. James Episcopal Church is located at 3209 Via Lido, Newport Beach.

Jeff Garell proves volunteer work at KidWorks truly makes a difference

Newport Coast resident and businessman Jeff Garell is recognized for his volunteer work at KidWorks. The nonprofit “ushers hope into Orange County’s most challenging neighborhoods through life-changing leadership development and academic enrichment programs while also fortifying families by engaging and supporting parents,” according to the KidWorks website.

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  Submitted Photo

Jeff Garell, a dedicated KidWorks volunteer

Garell began volunteering at the KidWorks after-school program eight years ago. He soon realized his time and efforts were making a difference after two months of helping a fourth grade girl with math. “I could see her eyes light up and she would laugh,” remembers Garell when the girl began to understand math equations she once struggled with. Thanks to the support of KidWorks volunteers like Garell, “100 percent of KidWorks high school students graduate on time and 100 percent go on to college.”

In addition to volunteering at KidWorks, Garell also assists his clients at Silversage Advisors, an Irvine-based wealth management company, become financially independent. Garell’s passion for helping others is undeniable. “Jeff just has a great passion for our organization and he shares our belief that all children deserve an opportunity to succeed in life regardless of the neighborhood in which they grow up,” said David Benavides, KidWorks CEO. Garell also serves as a KidWorks board member, and he and his wife, Karin, donate to the organization.

To learn more about KidWorks and how you can become a volunteer, visit www.kidworksoc.org.

Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

It’s Fair time…Burger Week hits town…and more

The Orange County Fair opens today at noon. Parking and admission will be free until 3 p.m.

Also, you could win an opportunity to be one of the first riders on the Titan, “the largest traveling booster ride in the U.S.”

According to the Fair PR department, “Titan rockets riders 17 stories into the air experiencing 4G acceleration and speeds of up to 60 mph, making it the most spectacular ride in the carnival. Now, the tallest ride in the Fair, it is 30 feet taller than La Grande Wheel XL, and it weighs 280,000 pounds.

If that doesn’t get you sick, I don’t know what will.

Anyway, here’s what you need to do, go to the Blue Gate where 32 special tickets will be handed out as the Fair opens.

Good luck.

The Fair runs for 23 days of action from today through August 11. Hours are noon to midnight Wednesdays through Fridays, and 11 a.m. to midnight on Saturdays and Sundays.

• • •

Sunday starts Burger Week in Orange County, a celebration of America’s favorite sandwich. And, just to be clear, burgers aren’t what they used to be. Now, they’ve become celebrated meals at some of the finest restaurants around.

Burger Week, organized by the same group that runs Orange County Restaurant Week annually, has at last count nearly 60 local restaurants signed up to participate.

The list in Newport Beach alone includes the Back Bay Bistro, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, Cappy’s Café, Fable & Spirit, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Great Maple, Juliette Kitchen and Bar, Olea, SideDoor, The Quiet Woman and Zov’s.

And, like Orange County Restaurant Week, each dining establishment puts together a prix fixe menu featuring their burger choices and some specially paired Burger Week cocktails.

The Week runs from Sunday, July 14 through Saturday, July 20.

I’m lucky enough to be invited to start things off tomorrow at The Country Club in Costa Mesa. To give you an example, their burger selections include everything from grilled Spanish octopus, to pickled Jalapeno and fennel slaw, to a bone marrow and shishito jam and Mobier cheese.

They sure aren’t what daddy used to cook up in the backyard when we were kids.

For a complete list of participants, go to www.burgerweek.com.

• • •

Former Newport Beach City Council candidate and local boxing promoter Roy Englebrecht has announced his next fight card planned for The Gardens Casino in Hawaiian Gardens. As usual, it’s a mix of boxing and mixed martial arts.

What makes this one different is that you’ll have a chance to win an opportunity to golf with boxing legend Mike Tyson. 

And, just as a piece of advice, if you win the opportunity to golf with Mike, and he asks if that 3 1/2-foot sidehill putt is good, I’d say “yes, of course.” After all, why argue.

Incidentally, the fights are set for Saturday, August 3. For info., go to www.socafights.com.

• • •

Don’t forget, a week from tomorrow on Saturday, July 20, it’s the Corona del Mar Library and Fire Station Grand Opening from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. It’ll include it all...speeches, a ribbon cutting, photo opps, tours and refreshments.

It’s been a long time coming.

The new facility is located at 410 Marigold Ave., in CdM.

• • •

The “caustic chemical” the 43-year-old knucklehead threw at and on Newport Beach Police last week was ammonia. They were responding to a domestic violence call. 

Several of our officers had to go for first aid. Fortunately, they’re all okay.

Enter to “Win a Family Four-Pack” to the OC Fair this summer!

The OC Fair is here and runs through August 11.

Enter our contest for a chance to “Win A Family Four-Pack” of tickets to the OC Fair this summer...it’s easy!

Here’s how to enter (must be 18 years of age or older):

Answer this OC Fair Trivia Question: How tall is La Grande Wheel XL, the giant Ferris wheel that debuted at the OC Fair in 2017?

Send you winning answer to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Please include “Win A Family Four Pack” in the Subject Line.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center

The winner will be chosen from a random drawing of all correct answers and notified by email with pick-up arrangements to be made.

The contest ends Friday, July 19 at 11:59 p.m. – so enter today!

The winner will be announced in a future edition of Stu News Newport. Take a selfie at the Fair and we’ll include your photo, too!

Goodluck and see you at the OC Fair.

Note: The OC Fair, themed “Acres of Fun,” is open Wednesday through Sunday. Parking is not included in the four-pack general admission tickets giveaway. No purchase is necessary.

We Care Wednesdays to return to OC Fair 

Receive free admission to the OC Fair on Wednesday, July 17 when you bring $5 worth of unopened, brand new school supplies to the OC Fair & Events Center. 

Donations from July 17 will benefit the Share Our Selves Back to School program. The Share Our Selves Back to School Program aims to close the educational gap for low-income K-12 students. 

Submitted Photo

We Care Wednesdays volunteers showcase donations

We Care Wednesdays will take place every Wednesday for the duration of the OC Fair. Proceeds will go towards a different program each week.

The OC Fair opens today, Friday, July 12 and runs through August 11. This year’s theme is “Acres of Fun.” 

For more information, visit www.ocfair.com.

Summer sunset surf 

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Photo by Stan Sievers (Instagram @stansievers)

Grabbing onto the best waves and living the Newport dream

Now’s the time to prepare before the big one hits

As Southern California is on heightened earthquake alert, the time is now to get you, your family and neighborhood prepared for any unexpected emergency. The City of Newport Beach encourages all community members to sign up for emergency alerts, build a disaster supply kit and take the City’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. Sign up to receive City emergency alerts at the www.alertoc.com. 

Here’s what you need to know and do: build or purchase a disaster supply kit; take the City’s Community Emergency Response Team training that teaches community members basic disaster preparedness skills which can assist them during an emergency. The next classes begin in September. Attend the Disaster Preparedness Expo on Saturday, Sept. 7 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the City Hall Civic Center, 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach.

For more information on the Green on the Green Expo and 11th Annual CERT Disaster Preparedness Expo, visit 

www.newportbeachca.gov/home/showdocument?id=64208.

For details on the CERT program, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Summer nights in Newport

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Photo by Michelle Mar (Instagram @msmichellemar)

Every day in Newport Beach is a blessing

Everyone invited to Books & Bunnies Festival of Kids tomorrow at Central Library

Tomorrow, Saturday, July 13 from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., bring the whole family to the 6th Annual Books & Bunnies Festival for Kids, taking place in the Newport Beach Central Library Children’s Room, with storytime in the Friends Meeting Room and activities on the Civic Green.

The special program features these kids’ authors: Karen Dobyns, The Centipede Who Couldn’t Tie His Shoes; Margarita Fairbanks, Valentino: The Love Bunny Series; Sheri Fink, The Little Unicorn and The Little Rose; and Angie Flores, Cub’s Wish and Kayla Waynab.

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Courtesy of Newport Beach Public Library

This cheerful rabbit is hopping by for the Books & Bunnies Festival tomorrow

The event will also feature bunny crafts, games and a balloon artist on the Civic Green. The festival will start with bunny greetings at the library entrance, followed by storytime with a children’s librarian in the Friends Meeting Room. Everyone is welcome and there are no admission fees.

This event, presented by the Newport Beach Library Foundation (NBLF), culminates the library’s 25th anniversary celebration.

Newport Beach Central Library is located at 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach. Call 949.717.3800. For more information, visit www.nbplfoundation.org.

The grunion...are running

Courtesy of Mike Halphide, Chief Lifeguard, NBFD

While protecting our waters, the Newport Beach Lifeguards came across these grunion, by the light of the moon

Breaking News in Newport Beach

Body found north of Newport Pier is missing 18-year-old

Christopher Nguyen, on vacation from England, went swimming for his 18th birthday on July 1 near the Newport Pier. His father watched from nearby. Then the unthinkable happened, Christopher disappeared from sight.

Tuesday, July 9, a lifeless body was reported to authorities floating some 300 feet offshore near 28th Street. It would eventually be identified as Nguyen.

Sheriff’s Harbor Patrol recovered the body, along with the assistance of the Newport Beach Lifeguards.

It took several days for the Orange County Coroner’s office to identify it because conditions of the body had deteriorated after apparently spending an extended period of time in the water.

Speculation always was that the body may be that of the missing 18-year-old British teenager.

The morning Nguyen disappeared, a call was received by lifeguards claiming a surfer noticed a swimmer or surfer struggling in the water between 24th and 28th streets.

An extensive search was undertaken by lifeguards and the Sheriff’s Department, but to no avail.

Coastal Commission says “no” to beachfront encroachments

A number of Balboa Peninsula homeowners have allowed extensions of their yards over the years to encroach on the beach toward the ocean and the Coastal Commission is now saying “no.” Some of the unauthorized extensions measure up to as much as 80 feet out and include lawns, irrigation, landscape and patio furniture.

The 55 homes involved approached the Coastal Commission through the City of Newport Beach seeking 15-foot allowances but were turned down.

The Coastal Commission is now asking the property owners to restore the beach property to its original intent.

The properties sit between F Street and the Wedge.

Courtesy of California Coastal Commission

The red markings denote encroachments, the blue stripes denote Western Snowy Plover critical habitat

Lemur thief pleads guilty

Quinn Kasbar, 19, of Newport, agreed this past week to plead guilty to one misdemeanor count of unlawfully taking an endangered species. The maximum penalty carries a one-year sentence in federal prison and up to a $100,000 fine.

Kasbar admitted to previously stealing Isaac, a 32-year-old lemur, from the Santa Ana Zoo last year. He later dropped the lemur off at the Newport Beach Marriott Bayview hotel in a box, with a note requesting its return to the Santa Ana Zoo.

He will be sentenced October 28.

On another matter, Kaspar is also linked to some 29 burglaries in-and-around the Balboa Island area where expensive pieces of jewelry, money, safes and more have been taken.

Kaspar also will face those charges in the future.

Hoag agrees to $3 million contribution to Newport Beach’s homelessness challenges

The Newport Beach City Council unanimously approved a 10-year development agreement with Hoag Hospital at Tuesday’s meeting.

Hoag Hospital, as their part of the agreement, will contribute $3 million over the next 10 years to assist the City with homelessness challenges.

In exchange, Hoag will have the opportunity to continue to develop their campus near the Newport Beach-Costa Mesa border to meet future growth challenges.

Coast Grab & Go to open in CdM

Coast Grab & Go has plans to open in Corona del Mar at 3537 E. Coast Highway, formerly occupied by Del Mar Wine & Spirits.

According to the business license, the owner is Coast Wine & Spirits LLC, so stay tuned for more information on its upcoming arrival.

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Photo by Amy Senk

An interior shot of Coast Grab & Go

You Must Remember This: Enjoying the beach, our way

By NANCY GARDNER

I ran into Walter Boice the other day, and we were comparing our different experiences growing up here – not because of an age gap, but because we were on different sides of the bay. It was almost like we were in different towns. He mentioned Pirate Days and the Festival of Lights, getting a blank stare from me, while acknowledging that he never came across the harbor to explore the hills or ride a horse. Those sorts of experiences may have been different, but although we didn’t get into it, I’m pretty sure our beachgoing was the same. 

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Courtesy of Nancy Gardner

Walter Boice

Today, there’s such an effort put into going to the beach, even discounting the drive and looking for parking. Before you leave, you line the kids up and slather them with sunscreen, put on their hats and dark glasses. Once there, you put up a canopy which is never as easy-open as purported, and then you all sit under it in the shade...except when you make a sandcastle or venture into the water – after you’ve put on a rash guard. It seems there’s something missing from the experience. Skin cancer?

When we went to the beach there was sun lotion, not sun screen. Sun lotion was to help you get tan, not prevent it. The best sun lotion, because it was the cheapest, was baby oil. If you wanted a little boost, you added iodine which was supposed to make you even browner. If you had a big allowance, you might go for Coppertone or Bain du Soleil, but mostly baby lotion, and every year it was the same. After emerging from the school year a pale shadow of yourself, the first day at the beach you spent six or seven hours in the sun, lavishing on the lotion. The result was a ripping sunburn, treated with vinegar when you got home. Maybe you were a little careful the next day but not much, and soon you were the color of well-used leather. Under these conditions, the face took a special beating, especially the nose. It peeled, blistered, peeled...so many times it’s a wonder the cartilage wasn’t bared. It would finally get so bad your parents would suggest zinc oxide – but not a hat.

All this made it easy to tell the regulars from the tourists. One group ranged from burnt sienna to umber, and the other evinced a disgusting pinky whiteness. It wasn’t just our brown bodies that differentiated us. Another separation was footwear. Come summer, you went barefoot. Anyone coming to the beach in shoes, even sandals, was scorned. Someone in leather shoes with black socks – it was like having a skunk walk across your path. Disgusting! We didn’t go barefoot just at the beach, though. We went barefoot everywhere, and as a result, our feet were as tough as if we had tire treads for soles. I remember jeering at my mother as she gingerly walked over a few pebbles, wincing with every step. We could walk across the sand on the hottest day, clamber over any kind of rock without feeling a thing. My feet were so tough, that when I accidentally scraped a piece off it was about a half centimeter thick.

We also didn’t “hydrate” in those days. Today, people drag coolers down with water, soft drinks, iced tea. What a pain. We went to the beach to tan, left at four or five with nothing to drink in between, and nobody ever cramped or got light-headed. Maybe if someone had told us about hydration, we would have felt something, but in our case surely ignorance was bliss.

Where were our parents in all this? In my case, they were at the beach right next to me getting just as brown as they could get. My mother got browner than anyone. In fact, she was so dark at one point that she was at a luncheon, and someone mistook her for the maid. The amazing thing is that she never got a single skin cancer, while I am following in my father’s footsteps with regular removals.

As for my beach experience today, if I go, it’s sunscreen, hat, dark glasses and, most embarrassing of all, shoes. Gone are the tough soles of those bygone barefoot days. Without shoes today, I wince just as much as my mother once did.  Fortunately, there’s no one around to jeer at me.

~~~~~~~~

Nancy Gardner, former Mayor of Newport Beach, long-time resident and daughter of Judge Robert Gardner, is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

Jeff Boyles named Newport Beach Fire Chief

Newport Beach City Manager Grace Leung announced late yesterday afternoon, July 11, that Jeff Boyles has been selected as the next Fire Chief for the City of Newport Beach.

“I am so excited to announce Jeff Boyles as my selection for Fire Chief,” Leung said. “In nearly 20 years with the City of Newport Beach, Jeff has grown and developed, as he moved through the ranks from Firefighter to Assistant Chief, into a skilled, strategic leader who has earned the respect of his staff, the organization and the community. Jeff is well prepared to lead the department and continue to provide a high level of service to the community through innovative and cost-effective strategies. Plus, Jeff is a kind, thoughtful and positive person who is a pleasure to be around. I look forward to working closely with Jeff and can’t wait to see what he accomplishes as Fire Chief.”

Courtesy of Linkedin

Jeff Boyles has been selected as the new Newport Beach Fire Chief

Boyles started his career with San Bernardino County as a firefighter/paramedic in 1994. He was hired in February of 2000 by the City of Newport Beach and has held positions of paramedic, battalion chief and is currently assistant chief. He also has completed assignments as an arson investigator and training chief.

Former Newport Beach Fire Chief Tim Riley, who hired Boyles into Newport Beach, said, “I’m proud of Jeff. He has done all of the right things to prepare himself for this opportunity. Newport Beach wants someone who has a vested interest in the community and Jeff has certainly shown he fits the bill with his active involvement in all things Newport Beach. I wish him much success.”

Additionally, Boyles has earned a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science/Public Administration from Cal State Long Beach.

He is active in several community and fire organizations and currently serves as the vice president of Speak Up Newport, a board of directors member for Leadership Tomorrow, advisory board member for Newport Beach 1/1 Marines Foundation and Operations Section vice president for the Orange County Fire Chiefs Association.

Boyles has a wife, Aimee, and two sons, Braeden, 16, and Ryan, 15.

Boyles replaces Fire Chief Chip Duncan who announced his retirement in the spring of 2019. Duncan has served as fire chief since 2017.

“I am honored to be selected as Chief Duncan’s successor as Fire Chief,” Boyles said. “The Newport Beach community is very unique with its beaches, harbor, airport, Back Bay, eight different islands, freeway, high-rise buildings and wildland interface. Our fire department prides itself on its customer service and innovation in meeting the challenges of our geographical and overall public safety hazards.

“I am very proud of the fact that our firefighters and paramedics have the highest rate of CPR saves during the past three years within all of Orange County according to County statistical measures,” Boyles added. “This is a reflection of our relationship with Hoag Hospital, our technological advances, our community awareness and our highly skilled professional responders on the streets and the beaches. We have so much more work still to do, and I am excited to get started.”

Take Five: Meet Barbara DeMarco-Barrett, bestselling author and writing coach

By AMY SENK

Barbara DeMarco-Barrett is probably busy writing, but if she’s not, she’s likely at Lido Village Books, hosting a writing salon (next up on July 16 is poet Kim Dower). Or, she’s on air at KUCI 88.9, interviewing authors, or headed to the desert to host a writer’s retreat, or teaching young writers – you get the picture. Her essay “Love Thy Neighbor’s Trees” was recently republished in the Belle Ombre Journal. I caught up with DeMarco-Barrett to ask about writing and making the written word a life’s work.

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Courtesy of Barbara DeMarco-Barrett

Bestselling author, writing coach Barbara DeMarco-Barrett

Q: You are a writer’s writer, hosting workshops, salons and even a weekly radio show that also streams globally. Which of these events do you find the most satisfying and why?

A: I enjoy all of them or I wouldn’t do them, but probably teaching is the most satisfying because I have a front row seat in my students’ growth and achievements. I do love my show, which, from the start, a friend called “your own personal MFA (Master of Fine Arts) program,” and of course, the salons are fun, too, bringing authors to the Lido Village bookstore in Newport Beach. It’s a hike to L.A. to attend a literary event, so I’m happy to make the drive much shorter.

Q: Have any of your students really inspired you – have any gone on to publish their work or gain recognition?

A: One reason I teach is because I’m constantly inspired by my students. Their smaller accomplishments, like getting an essay published in Orange Coast magazine, is gratifying to me. So are their larger accomplishments. Laguna Beach’s Lynette Brasfield, with her Nature Lessons. Laguna Woods’s Phil Doran with his The Reluctant Tuscan. San Juan Capistrano’s Aline Ohanesian with her Orphan’s Inheritance. On and on. Most who take my workshops and classes want to publish traditional, and I help them with that goal. When I was starting out, mentors and teachers meant everything to me, and I hope that working with me has meant something to at least some of my students.

Q: You’ve had essays, stories and books published – which is your favorite and why?

A: Of course my book, Pen on Fire: A Busy Woman’s Guide to Igniting the Writer Within, had the most impact on me, both emotionally and financially. When the book hit the L.A. Times bestseller list, I was over the moon. Yet, I have to say, it’s a thrill getting shorter pieces published, too, even when it’s a labor of love, and for literary journals it’s often a labor of love. I’m five years into working on a novel, and I imagine it will be the biggest thrill ever when and if it’s published. Writing is a crazy gamble. You never know what’s going to stick.

Q: Has anything ever happened through your writing that really stands out as crazy or special or extraordinary? If so, can you tell me about it?

A: A few years ago, I was a book reviewer for Orange Coast magazine. Somehow an issue landed in an Illinois prison. A lifer came across my column and wrote to me in care of the magazine. We’ve been pen pals ever since. We never would have made contact had I not been a reviewer, as I wasn’t looking for a prisoner pen pal. He wrote to me because he said he wanted to be a published writer. He has since self-published on Amazon a couple of books. I don’t think I could have corresponded with him as long as I have if his writing wasn’t decent. He doesn’t demolish verbs or batter adjectives. I’ve been encouraging him to write a memoir. In his last letter, he responded to my question: If you could have a do-over, where would it begin? He wrote a page on what he would do over. It was heartrending. I never discuss personal matters or my family. It’s all about writing and typewriters and baseball, but mostly about writing.

Q: What is your No. 1 tip for an aspiring writer?

A: Get rid of your negative thoughts about yourself and your writing and stay in the chair, at least a little bit of each day. Lots of people want to have written but writers have to write. Oh, and you’ve got to be your own biggest advocate and don’t take no for an answer. Oops, that’s five No. 1 tips. 

~~~~~~~~

Amy Senk is a long-time resident of Corona del Mar and a monthly contributor to Stu News Newport.

An evening of crafting and craft beer at OCMA

On Thursday, July 18 from 6-8 p.m., enjoy an evening of crafting and craft beer at the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA), currently located in South Coast Plaza Village.

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Photos by Chris Bliss

Courtesy of OCMA

Victoria Fu and Matt Rich: “Monster A” is currently on exhibit

Crack open a free beer from OCMA’s friends at Green Cheek Beer Company and make specially designed art projects inspired by current exhibitions, Hiromi Takizawa: Open Air and Victoria Fu and Matt Rich: Monster A.

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“Open Air” by Hiromi Takizawa is comprised of lit hanging glass

Musician and Burger Records cofounder Sean Bohrman will be onsite to DJ. This event is free and open to all guests age 21 and over. To enjoy a beer on OCMA, please be prepared to show your government-issued ID.

Orange County Museum of Art is located at 1661 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana. For more information and to find out about OCMA’s exhibits and programs, visit www.ocmaexpand.org.

OC Burger Week menus are live 

Orange County’s first-ever Burger Week is almost here! From Sunday, July 14 through Saturday, July 20, enjoy a variety of burgers from nearly 60 local participating restaurants. Menus are priced at $10, $15 and $20 and luxe burger menus at $25.

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Submitted photo

Participating Newport Beach restaurants include: Back Bay Bistro, Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, Cappy’s Café, Fable & Spirit, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Great Maple, Juliette Kitchen and Bar, Olea, Sidedoor and Zov’s.

Many of the participating restaurants will also offer Burger Week cocktail specials featuring Effen Vodka, Maker’s Mark, Cruzan Tequila and Hornitos Tequila. Additionally, several restaurants will serve collaboration burgers co-created by their chefs and The Fork Report’s Neil Saavedra.

For more information on Burger Week and a list of all participating restaurants, visit www.burgerweek.com.

Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Transpac ready to go; parking on CdM State Beach still prohibited and more

For yacht racing enthusiasts, the biennial Transpacific Race (Transpac) gets underway tomorrow, Wednesday, July 10, with the 50th anniversary edition of the 2,225-mile race from Los Angeles to Honolulu.

A record 90+ entries will set sail in three staggered starts over several days off Pt. Fermin in San Pedro. 

The race for most takes some 14 days. Parties include a Mt. Gay Rum Party July 24 at the Hawaii YC and another Mt. Gay party July 25 at the Waikiki YC. The Honolulu Awards Ceremony is scheduled for July 26 at the Hawaii Convention Center.

Safe journeys to all.

• • •

Speaking of boats, despite popular rumors to the contrary, boat parking on Corona del Mar State Beach is still prohibited.

It seems that following last Thursday night’s Fourth of July festivities, a 38-foot vessel named Mel Mac ran aground on CdM’s main beach around 10:30 p.m.

Oops!

According to those on board, mechanical issues led to initial distractions and then to their eventual grounding.

Lifeguard personnel and OC Sheriff’s Harbor Patrol responded and attempted to help pull the boat back out into the water, but failed due to lowering tides.

According to Chief Lifeguard Mike Halphide, “The boat was removed on (Friday) July 5 just after 11 p.m. It was pulled off by a commercial salvage company. 

“U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Fish and Wildlife officials were on scene, as well, to monitor the operation and ensure there was no environmental impact. The fuel from the vessel was offloaded prior to the removal to minimize any potential for a spill. 

“We had staff on scene throughout the day on July 5th keeping people away from the vessel and out of the water near the boat since it obstructed the view of the tower Lifeguard.

“The boat sustained minimal damage and was taken to a boat yard and hauled out that night. This was an incident that was a successful collaborative effort between the lifeguards, fire crews, salvage company, and State and Federal officials.”

• • •

Newport Beach Mayor Diane Dixon will be presenting a city update to Good Morning Corona del Mar at the upcoming CdM Chamber meeting, this Thursday, July 11, at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club. 

The gathering begins at 7:30 a.m., is free of charge and offers complimentary refreshments.

The program is the Chamber’s Government & Community Affairs Discussion Group and, as such, features city and legislative updates from local representatives. Those expected to be on hand include Joy Brenner, Newport Beach City Council, District 6; and representatives for Congressman Harley Rouda, 48th District, State Senator John Moorlach, 37th District, Assembly member Cottie Petrie-Norris, 74th District, and Orange County Supervisor Michelle Steel, 2nd District.

• • •

Meanwhile, things are busy at the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, too. Tonight is the July Marine Committee meeting at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club, beginning with networking at 5:30 p.m. and the program beginning at 6.

The guest speaker will be Wayne Ettell, president of the Maritime Preservation Trust.

And, don’t forget Thursday’s WAKE UP! Newport breakfast and program at the Newport Public Library beginning at 7:15 a.m. with a continental breakfast and the program following at 7:45.

One of the speakers is Joe Daichendt, a partner in ACI Jet Orange County, LLC. The subject is John Wayne Airport General Aviation update on G.A. operations and airport upgrades, along with former Newport Beach Mayor Tom Edwards and Susan Dvorak with Citizens Against Noise & Pollution.

Because food is provided, the Chamber would like an accurate headcount and asks attendees to RSVP to Pam Smith at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Oh, and it’s free, if that helps make up your mind.

• • •

From our Parents, No Need to Worry list: Just a note from our school district, “due to seismic activity, all schools have been inspected and summer programs will continue uninterrupted.”

CdM residents in 2069 will have a taste of CdM life today

By AMY SENK

As Corona del Mar prepares for the July 20 grand opening of the new fire station and library building on Marigold Avenue, city officials have asked residents to help them fill a small time capsule. It’s a harder task than first meets the eye.

“The current plan is to bury the capsule and retrieve it in 50 years,” said Newport Beach Library Services Director Tim Hetherton. “We are still determining the items that will go into the capsule, but we want to include things that are indicative of the 2019 NBPL (public library), NBFD (fire department), Public Works and most importantly, daily life in Corona del Mar.”

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Photo by Amy Senk

New Corona del Mar Fire Station and Library Branch to open July 20

At a June meeting, the Corona del Mar Residents Association board members discussed possible items to include, but no one offered any amazing ideas off the tops of their heads. Items have to be small enough to fit inside the capsule, which is 16 inches long with a 4-inch diameter, and they also need to be able to weather time, although the capsule is waterproof. I suggested a CdMHS Class of 2019 photo, or maybe takeout menus from local restaurants. In 50 years, it’s a sure bet that the prices would be fun to see, as well as the dining options.

What will go into this time capsule to capture CdM life in the year 2019?

Newport Beach loves a time capsule, it seems. I couldn’t find an official inventory of all the buried time capsules in town, but Hetherton’s staff researched the subject and shared the results. There’s a capsule at 550 Newport Center Drive that was placed in July 1967 with no date set to open, and another at Edwards Lido Theater at 3459 Via Lido that was placed in 1990 and set to be opened on the theater’s 100th birthday in 2039. That one was opened at the 50th birthday, then items were added and reburied.

There was one buried in the 1970s in the brick walls of Muldoon’s, and I can’t figure out if anyone ever did manage to get to it and open it. There’s a reference to a time capsule placed in the cornerstone at Andersen Elementary School, as well as one in the Balboa Bay Club. There’s a time capsule in CdM under the clock tower at Marguerite Avenue and East Coast Highway, and there’s another in the wall of the Central Library that was placed there in 2013.

For the CdM library and fire station capsule, Hetherton said the library likely will contribute a library card and recent rack cards about services and programs. Suggestions to reflect CdM life in 2019 are welcome: email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

After the task force, the city formed a Bicycle Safety Committee in late 2010. 

• • •

Meanwhile, recent news of a shark attack in the Bahamas – an attack that killed a 21-year-old Southern California woman – made me wonder about sharks here in Newport Beach. I recalled that the City of Newport Beach installed a shark-detecting system last October for a 60-day trial period, and I especially wondered how that turned out.

Not great, apparently.

I spoke to Newport Beach Lifeguard Chief Mike Halphide, who said the city extended the 60 days to 100 days, but in the end, the sonar technology of the Clever Buoy was “not ready for prime time.”

“In some ways, it was a very interesting thing to be part of,” he said. “But there were quite a few false positives.”

To continue it after the trial would have cost $20,000 a month, so in February, the company and city parted ways. Now, the city is back to using drones, lifeguard boats and helicopters to look for sharks, and they share information with other nearby beach authorities. Before each Junior Guards session, morning and afternoon, boats scour for sharks, Halphide said. “There’s a shark protocol, and lifeguards share technology and tips.

“There’s no silver bullet. There’s a lot of thoughts and a lot of theories,” Halphide said.

So far this year, according to Halphide, he’s heard of only one shark sighting, far off shore of Crystal Cove State Park.

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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.

1/1 Marines to wash your car...for a great cause

On Saturday, July 20 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., the Newport Beach 1/1 Marines Foundation is holding a fundraiser, where you can come and get your car washed by Marines from the 1st Battalion/1st Marines.

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Submitted photo

Drive over to the Shell Gas Station located at 1600 Jamboree Road (corner of San Joaquin Hills Road), Newport Beach to get your vehicle squeaky clean. The suggested donation is $20.

For more information on the Newport Beach 1st Battalion/1st Marines Foundation, call 949.385.1110 and visit www.oneonemarines.com.

Celebrating 20 years, Coastkeeper dives deep into Marine Protected Areas

As it celebrates its 20th anniversary, Orange County Coastkeeper invests more time, money and love into the region’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) than before. Through an increasingly large MPA monitoring program, a marine protection collaborative group and new enforcement training, Coastkeeper dives deep into protecting MPAs.

MPAs protect valuable marine environments by prohibiting or limiting activities like fishing, oil drilling or development projects. They create safe places for marine populations to grow and thrive, while also providing beautiful destinations for people to enjoy. By maintaining healthy marine environments and species within MPAs, non-restricted waters can offer healthy fishing stocks for sport and commercial fishers.

Newport Beach’s MPAs include Upper Newport Bay, Little Corona and Crystal Cove.

–Upper Newport Bay - Take is prohibited, except: The recreational take of finfish by hook and line from shore is allowed in designated areas only.

–Crystal Cove - Take is prohibited, except: The recreational take of finfish by hook and line or by spearfishing is allowed, as well as take of lobster and sea urchin; the commercial take of coastal pelagic species (northern anchovy, jack mackerel, pacific sardine, pacific mackerel, market squid) by round haul net, spiny lobster by trap and sea urchin is allowed; no take allowed from tidepools.

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Courtesy of Orange County Coastkeeper

Little Corona is a Marine Protected Area

Coastkeeper’s Efforts:

–MPA Watch Program: Volunteers monitor human activity in Orange County’s MPAs. These watchdogs receive classroom and field training to guarantee accurate and reliable information, and Coastkeeper sends the recorded observations to the statewide MPA Watch program. The recently released MPA Watch 2018 annual report concluded that 99 percent of recorded activities were non-consumptive, allowing marine life to thrive undisturbed.

–Leadership in a collaborative MPA group: Ray Hiemstra, Coastkeeper’s Associate Director of Programs, recently became co-chair for the Orange County Marine Protected Area Council. This collaboration of government officials, academics, consultants and nonprofits work on various marine conservation efforts.

–Enforcement training for coastal workers: This fall, with the help of the Council, Coastkeeper will host a regional MPA enforcement training for harbor patrol, lifeguards, law enforcement and other coastal workers. The goal is to provide comprehensive, easy-to-understand information on MPAs, where they are and how to enforce MPA restrictions to ensure the marine habitats remain undisturbed.

–Defining MPA boundaries through fieldwork: Last month, Coastkeeper Marine Restoration Director Katie Nichols led a boat excursion to geographically define the boundaries of Orange County’s seven MPAs. Mapping these areas will provide further education resources for future workshops and outreach.

For a full list of Orange County’s Marine Protected Areas by region with additional information, visit www.ocmarineprotection.org/recreation.html.

For more information on Orange County Coastkeeper, go to www.coastkeeper.org

Guest Column

Grace Leung

An insider’s look at what’s going on in and around City Hall

Newport Beach City Manager Grace Leung   

A very happy week to everyone, following a great 4th of July holiday! It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying the festivities at Channel Place Park and Mariners Park at our City supported events as well as all over town and at our beaches and harbor. Another reminder of why our community is so special! I am also deeply appreciative of our hardworking staff across the organization: Recreation & Senior Services, Police, Fire, Harbor, Public Works and Utilities in particular, who work on the holiday to provide great family friendly activities; patrol and protect our beaches, harbor, neighborhoods and streets so residents and visitors can enjoy the festivities safely; and set up and then clean up our facilities and beaches so the City looks great following all the celebrations. A big thank you to our terrific staff!

Our next City Council meeting is Tuesday (tonight), July 9. The following are items that may be of interest. As always, this is not a summary of the entire agenda, which can be viewed here.

 There is no study session so the Regular Session begins at 7 p.m. and the following are items of note: On the consent calendar is an amendment to the ordinance limiting Saturday construction and requirement for project signage in designated high density areas. This new ordinance was adopted by Council on June 11, 2019, following Council discussion and community outreach on addressing the impacts of construction in residential areas. The amendment will allow HOAs the ability to opt out of the requirements, providing some flexibility to meet the differing needs of neighborhoods within the high density areas.

Also on the consent calendar is an agreement to receive a structural fire engine from the state’s Office of Emergency Services. This temporary vehicle assignment gives custody and control of the vehicle to the City while ownership remains with the state. The engine will be utilized for strike team deployments while also available for local emergencies and as a back-up unit when regular apparatus is out of service for repairs. Because the ownership resides with the state, the only costs to the City is the annual maintenance and minor repairs. All repairs exceeding $100 will be paid by the state. The engine will be stored at Santa Ana Heights Fire Station 7.

One item is on for Public Hearing, a Ten-Year extension to a Development Agreement for Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian. Hoag is requesting an extension of the development agreement, which would continue to vest Hoag’s development rights of approximately 455,000 sq. ft. of remaining additional office and medical use. As part of this development agreement extension, Hoag has agreed to provide benefits to the community through a payment of $3 million, in equal annual installments over ten years, to address homelessness and through continued funding of its Community Benefit Program, currently provided at the Melinda Hoag Smith Center for Healthy Living. The current agreement, if it is not extended, expires in September of this year.   

As a reminder, public comment is welcome at the City Council meeting. The public can comment on any item on the agenda. If you cannot attend the meeting and/or want to communicate with the City Council directly on an item, the following email address gets to all of them: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

The Week in Review was provided last week. In case you missed it, we do post them on the City’s website; the latest edition can be found here.

 Thank you for reading. Feedback is appreciated so please don’t hesitate to ask a question or offer a comment. 

Grace K. Leung

City Manager

City of Newport Beach

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

949.644.3001

Warm weekend glow

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Photo by Meghan Kelly Sickner

(Instagram @meghanscoastalliving)

An orange sun setting from Crystal Cove this weekend