Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

One local family made significant marks in Newport Beach and now’s doing the same in the Tokyo Olympics

This came across my desk at the end of last week from Newport Beach Fire Chief Jeff Boyles: “Many athletes from Orange County are representing the United States in the Tokyo Olympics. However, the team with perhaps the most local representation is the Women’s Water Polo Team. 

“Six members of the team are from Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach and Seal Beach.

“One of the six local teammates is Alys Williams. Alys is a former NBFD Lifeguard and daughter of retired Newport Beach Lifeguard Assistant Chief Rob Williams. Alys graduated from Edison High School, attended UCLA and worked as a seasonal Newport Beach Lifeguard. 

“(Last week) she scored a goal against the Russian Olympic Team, earning her place in history as a true Olympian.”

The women ended pool play with a 3-1 record with Canada scheduled as the next roadblock on their way to Olympic gold. 

Alys and Chief Williams, Newport Beach couldn’t be prouder.

• • •

There have been many residents upset with the newly approved 2510 W. Coast Highway project. The development offers up office space fronting Coast Highway, with some 36 apartment units, three of which are low income, in the rear.

So, if you haven’t figured it out yet, local decision-making on certain projects is being taken away, case-in-point, 2510. This not only gives decision-making authority powers to Sacramento, but it could also potentially make finding local candidates for City Council more difficult, as their decision-making authority is reduced.

Here’s an example of some legislation in front of us that is potentially troubling. Senate Bill 9 would preempt local zoning laws by allowing up to eight units on what is now a single-family lot. This also means a lot as small as 2,400 sq. ft. could be split with two units.

To make matters worse, developers would not be required to pay for any infrastructure improvements related to these changes.

When you hear about the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) of 4,853 new units in Newport Beach, this is certainly a way to help get there, and then some.

Obviously, passage of SB9 would change the feel of our good old Newport Beach.

If you like our single-family neighborhoods, you might want to check out the petition circulating on change.org, but in any case, you’ll definitely want to keep an eye on SB9. It’s already passed in the senate and is heading on to the state assembly.

Political activist Nancy Scarbrough, a past city council candidate and almost assuredly one in our future, is well-versed on SB9 and writes in Stu News’ Letters to the Editor this week concerning the somewhat troubling developer density bonuses.

It’s worth a read.

• • •

Now for some happier news, for those of you looking to get back to the movies at the “New” Port Theater, good news, they’ll reopen their doors this Thursday, Aug. 5. Management has just announced new showtimes, beginning with the epic thriller adventure The Suicide Squad.

Opening night is Thursday at 7 p.m., followed by two performances on Friday (5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.) and three on Sunday (1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.).

To buy tickets, go here.

• • •

The Newport Beach Navy League Council sponsors the Corona del Mar-based Coast Guard Cutter Narwahl. News in from the Newport Beach Navy League has brought our attention to a Change in Command Ceremony dockside this Thursday.

The outgoing Commanding Officer is Lt. Caroline Miller…we wish Lt. Miller “fair winds and following seas.” 

• • •

Last Thursday, July 29, the U.S. House of Representatives passed funding of $15.5 million for the Surfside-Sunset & Newport Beach Replenishment Project.

The request was made by Rep. Michelle Steel (CA-48) and now moves on to the Senate.

“This is an exciting step towards getting much-needed sand replenishment for our coastline. I’ve worked with local stakeholders to…make sure our beaches are healthy. I urge our Senators to include this important project funding in their must-pass funding bills,” said Rep. Steel.   

• • •

Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris has recognized the 2021 Nonprofits of the Year for Assembly District 74. While the Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach was the overall District selection, Newport Beach’s Project Self-Sufficiency received local recognition as Nonprofit of the Year.

Project Self-Sufficiency helps low-income single parents graduate from college or vocational training gaining the skills necessary to achieve economic independence.

An honest discussion about vaccinations amid climbing COVID cases

By AMY SENK

Last week, Newport Beach resident Ruth Kobayashi learned that a friend had been hospitalized, in ICU and on a ventilator, with COVID-19. Kobayashi asked her friends on social media to pray for this woman, and dozens of her friends immediately did.

“Will you also, if you’ve hesitated to get vaccinated (for any reason), will you please consider doing so?” she added. “I’m reaching out to my fellow believers in faith and liberty, including my fellow conservatives…the blessings of liberty, our brilliant scientists, our former President gave us a life-saving group of vaccines. Though most will recover from COVID w/o medical intervention, some won’t. Life-threatening cases are now preventable. If you still have doubts, call your doctor, don’t rely on social media.”

Kobayashi and I don’t see eye-to-eye on everything politically, but we’ve known each other for years through the Corona del Mar High School PTA, and those interactions led to a friendship that doesn’t rely on identically marked ballots. News of her friend’s condition shook me, and I told her so. 

We wound up having a long telephone conversation about friends who have so far declined to get the COVID vaccine and why. We both understand many of the reasons for the resistance, but at the same time, we both worry about the risks for our unvaccinated friends.

Click on photo for a larger image

Courtesy of Newport Beach Fire Dept.

This vaccine was administered at one of the first clinics where NBFD personnel assisted

“Rugged individuality is something Americans pride themselves in,” she said. “From the top to the bottom, from the beginning, the message from officials wasn’t how do we win everyone over. It was people are telling us what to do.”

I told Kobayashi about my son in Missouri and how he’s heard reports from friends with family in isolated rural areas of the state that they have nowhere close by to get a vaccine, even if they wanted one. We talked about her daughter’s school, Biola University, where a campus blog posted about vaccines reflecting the spirit of Christianity.

“Even the folks at NPR get this,” the post stated, referring to an NPR story with the headline, “Love Your Neighbor And Get The Shot: White Evangelical Leaders Push COVID Vaccines.”

“I actually really hope more pastors encourage vaccination as an American miracle of science (Trump’s words) and/or an American blessing (Biden’s words),” Kobayashi told me. “They need to stay out of politics but encourage vaccination and even invite a pop-up vax site at Sunday services, like on the patio at the churches.”

I told her that vaccine mandates and the resistance some people have to them remind me of Aesop’s fable about the sun and wind having a bet about which could get the boy below to take off his jacket. The wind tried to force it off, but the boy just tightened it around himself. The sun shone warmly down upon him…and guess what he did?

Kobayashi said when she heard about her friend, who had been seemingly in perfect health before COVID, she was “afraid to death” while she waited for twice-daily updates. She avoids posting divisive messages on social media, so she agonized how, or even if, she should urge her friends to consider a vaccine, even if they’d been resistant in the past. She wondered if it would be worth it, but then told herself it would be if even one extra person got the vaccine. 

“Then I got a message from a friend, texting me from Hoag,” she said. The friend wrote that she had been praying to God to give some kind of clarity or guidance about whether to get the vaccine. Then she saw Kobayashi’s post and immediately went in for her shot.

“You can call it a coincidence,” Kobayashi said. “I’ll call it a God wink.”

So please read this and consider the COVID vaccine. Talk to your doctor or make an appointment at an Urgent Care clinic and talk to someone there. “They are the safest, fastest way for us to get back to normal,” Kobayashi said. 

And normal, we can all agree, is something that is long overdue.

P.S. Kobayashi’s friend is improving and appears to be out of the woods.

~~~~~~~~

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. She and her husband have two children attending college at the University of Missouri and Duke University. She is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.

Petersen and mates bring GovCup championship to host BYC 

Jeffrey Petersen, of the host Balboa Yacht Club (BYC), won the 54th Annual Governor’s Cup International Youth Match Racing Championship by beating Denmark’s Emil Kjaer 3-2 in the match race final on Saturday, July 31.

Petersen, who had been a dominant force throughout the week of sailing, had to come from behind to win the final two races over Kjaer to earn the championship.

Teammates Max Brennan (main trimmer) and Scott Mais (bowman) joined Petersen on the podium by providing excellent crew work throughout the week.

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Photo by Longpre Photos ©

(L-R) Max Brennan (main trimmer), Scott Mais (bowman) and Jeffrey Petersen (skipper) hold the trophy for the win at the 54th Annual Governor’s Cup International Youth Match Racing Championship

Kjaer, sailing out of the Royal Danish Yacht Club, won the first race in the first to three scenario, then led 2-1, and was on the verge of the championship, before Petersen and team came storming back.

The “GovCup” was again to be decided after almost five days of racing in conditions much breezier than is typical for Newport Beach in the summer – 10-17 knots instead of the usual lighter 6-10. 

Two other Americans made their ways to the semi-finals from the international field. The first was Porter Kavle, from the Annapolis Yacht Club, who joined Newport Harbor Yacht Club’s Morgan Pinckney. 

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Photo by Tom Walker photography

(L-R) Petersen, Mais and Brennan sailing for USA, Balboa Yacht Club on the racecourse 

The weeks’ worth of racing was presented by DISC Sports and Spine Center.

Petersen joins former winners Nick Egnot-Johnson, 2019 from New Zealand, Harry Price, 2018 from Australia and 2017 winner Christophe Killian, who also sailed out of the BYC.

The event was canceled last year due to the COVID challenges.

Next up for the BYC is that they’ll act as host club for the Youth Match Racing World Championship that runs August 9-14.

City Manager’s Updates

From the desk of Grace Leung

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Courtesy of City of Newport Beach

Newport Beach City Manager Grace Leung

Community members,

State health officials this week amplified their calls for increased safety precautions amid the Delta variant surge that has increased COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in California. 

While there is no statewide mask mandate in place at this time, the California Department of Public Health on Wednesday formally recommended that residents wear face coverings in all indoor public places, regardless of vaccination status. Unvaccinated people are required to wear masks in all indoor public settings and are urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible. There are currently no plans to implement a new mask mandate in Orange County. 

Like all other California counties, Orange County has seen significant increases in COVID cases. Orange County’s average daily case rate (per 100,000 residents) increased from 4.9 to eight this week, and test positivity is now at 4.9 percent.

According to the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA), more than 90 percent of the new positive cases are among people who are not fully vaccinated, and more than 95 percent of those hospitalized with COVID-19 had not been fully vaccinated. 

Officials encourage testing for those experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, regardless of vaccination status. Self-collection, at home COVID-19 test kits are available at no cost by visiting www.ochealthinfo.com/covidtest. 

For those seeking vaccination options, visit the HCA page at this link. The county has returned to daily weekday updates of COVID-19 cases, with reports available at this link. 

COVID-19 Cases in Newport Beach 

As of July 29, the total cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Newport Beach was 4,189 and the total cases in Orange County was 263,578. The number of recovered COVID-19 patients countywide as of July 29 was 251,384. These figures are provided to Orange County by the California Department of Public Health.

Homelessness Update 

–18 people who had been experiencing homelessness in Newport Beach are now sheltered in the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter. 

–A couple experiencing homelessness in Newport Beach was placed in the Yale Navigation Center in Santa Ana. The Yale center provides shelter for as many as 425 people experiencing homelessness and provides case managers who locate appropriate housing, assist with job searches and provide other on-site services. 

–City Net collaborated with Orange County’s Adult Protective Services to meet with a client sheltered in a motel. Adult Protective Services operates a 24-hour hotline, 800.451.5155, to prevent or remedy abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults due to their age or disability. 

–Two people experiencing homelessness in Newport Beach were enrolled into City Net services.

–City Net enrolled a man into in-patient psychiatry services. 

–City Net placed a man into a medical detoxification program. 

For a comprehensive look at the city’s ongoing efforts to address homelessness, visit the website at this link. To donate, visit the Good Giving Program webpage. 

Annual Concrete Reconstruction Program 

The City of Newport Beach Public Works Department recently completed their Annual Concrete Reconstruction Program. This program is a continuous seven-year cycle and addresses damaged concrete curbs, gutters, sidewalks and driveway approaches in preparation of the annual slurry seal program. Often, existing concrete improvements are lifted by tree roots, which may cause improper street drainage or lead to potential tripping hazards. This program involves removing the damaged concrete, pruning the tree roots and reconstructing the concrete improvements at various isolated locations. In some cases where root pruning isn’t feasible, the tree will be removed and replanted. This year’s project focused on the West Newport communities and Lido Isle. Thank you for your patience throughout construction.

Grant Howald Park Restroom Rehabilitation

Renovation was recently completed on the restrooms near the tennis courts at Grant Howald Park. The floor of the restroom was leveled and tiled, the interior was painted, certain older fixtures were replaced, partitions and doors were added to the men’s restroom and protective copper capping was installed on the exposed exterior beams. 

Next City Council Meeting on August 24 

As a reminder, there is only one City Council meeting in August, so the next meeting will be held on August 24, 2021.

Editor’s Note: City Manager’s Updates was received on Friday, July 30 and is subject to editing.

Birthday sandcastle gram

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Photo by Chris Crosson (Instagram @sandcastlekit)

Celebrating Mitzi’s 80th birthday on Balboa Island with this awesome sandcastle creation

Guest Column

Jodi P. Bole, Founder

Balboa Island Preservation Association

Should Balboa Island benches be put in the wood pile?

In our fast-paced and ever-changing lives, and a world that appears to be in constant turmoil, traditions are more important than ever before. We intentionally continue traditions because they provide a sense of belonging and meaning to our lives. In this way, tradition grounds us. 

The charming and iconic wood benches on Balboa Island have been a tradition to residents and tourists for decades. They have been used in numerous professional photos to promote tourism in Newport Beach. For years, locals and tourists alike have enjoyed sitting on the comfortable, all-natural wood benches. Almost every Council member has been seen visiting with constituents while sitting on our Balboa Island benches. Even former Mayor Will O’Neill and Councilman Noah Blom have acknowledged the importance of these special benches with several photos taken on Balboa Island benches during various campaigns. Our existing benches have also been memorialized by a bronzed statue of an older couple sitting on a Balboa Island wood bench on the South Bay front. This iconic display suggests that life is fleeting and precious; and we should honor what is important to us. 

Now it appears that our wood benches may be at risk of being replaced with plastic or concrete benches. This Tuesday (tonight), the City of Newport Beach Public Works will be presenting to the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission on several alternatives for replacement of the benches on the Balboa Island boardwalk. Unfortunately, our cherished cherry wood benches will not be on their official list as an option for replacement. 

Since 2019, the Balboa Island Preservation Association (BIPA), a local volunteer group of Balboa Island residents and property owners, has spent hundreds of hours researching, documenting and providing community outreach regarding the iconic wood benches. What we learned is that the benches were originally purchased by donors, not the City, which included additional money for initial maintenance. In return for the donors’ investment, the City would provide follow-up maintenance for the benches. It was Mayor Steve Bromberg, a Balboa Island resident, who initially brought this initiative to the City Council, and the Council voted to adopt the agreement. Unfortunately, the benches have not been properly maintained and many are now in disrepair. 

BIPA has learned that some of the benches on the island are made from cherry wood and others are teak wood. We also discovered that concrete is problematic in coastal areas due to the salt in the air. It essentially crumbles over time and the rebar inside the concrete rusts, causing further cracking and crumbling and the plastic “polywood” warps and cracks in the heat. BIPA documented numerous plastic and concrete benches throughout Newport Beach that are cracked, warped and broken. In contrast, the cherry wood benches, which can last over 20 years and are 400 percent denser than teak, are in excellent condition and only need refinishing to prolong their lifespan. 

Our research also concluded that if the teak benches were changed out for cherry wood at the end of their life cycle, the city and taxpayers would save a significant amount of money by only refinishing the benches every other year, for less than what it would take to replace the wood benches with concrete or plastic benches. BIPA was also able to find two qualified small business contractors to refinish the benches at a cost significantly less than a bid that the City received by a construction company last year, which was significantly higher than what the scope of work warranted.

In May 2020, BIPA received a poll that 90.4 percent of residents on Balboa Island favor keeping the wood benches over any “approved” bench the city would present. The Balboa Island community hopes that when the Commission hears the options from both Public Works and the community, who overwhelmingly wish to keep the wood benches, they will keep in mind the benches are a very special and important element on Balboa Island. They are part of a rich legacy for the donors, whose names are displayed on the benches. And our iconic wood benches offer familiarity to tourists and give our residents a sense of belonging. We should all work together to develop a plan to keep them, versus tossing them in the wood pile. The City should honor its agreement with the Balboa Island donors and residents. It can and should be done!

The Balboa Island Preservation Association is a community-led organization working to achieve its preservation mission for the enjoyment and benefit of Balboa Island residents, merchants, visitors and for future generations.

State Senator Dave Min seeking nominations for Educator of the Year

State Senator Dave Min’s office is seeking nominations for Educator of the Year. In the announcement, Min acknowledges that teachers are the heart and soul of our kids’ classrooms. 

“We want to honor these special figures in our kids’ lives, and we need YOUR help,” said Min. “We’re introducing our inaugural Educator of the Year award, which will recognize your favorite teachers from Senate District 37. Honorees will receive the coveted title of ‘Educator of the Year’ along with a certificate of recognition acknowledging the exceptional work they have done in helping our students through a challenging year.”

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Courtesy of the Office of Dave Min

State Senator Dave Min, District 37

All you must do is nominate your favorite teacher (or teachers) from the 37th District, which includes the cities of Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Newport Beach, Orange, Tustin and Villa Park, and tell us how they made a difference in your child’s life.

Nominees are not restricted to classroom teachers, so if someone else at a school or school district has made a difference, they can be nominated.

Nominations should be directed here.

The deadline to submit your nomination is Friday, Aug. 6 at 6 p.m. If you have any questions, email Matt Kern at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Professional pickleball tournament on display this week at The Tennis Club at Newport Beach

A professional pickleball tournament presented by the Pro Pickleball Association (PPA) takes place this Thursday, Aug. 5 through Sunday, Aug. 8 at The Tennis Club at Newport Beach. 

The event will be broadcast on ESPN+, Facebook and YouTube featuring more than 800 amateur and professional athletes. The pro side of the event features international players from around the world, including Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Slovenia, Russia, Slovakia, France, Germany, Israel and the Czech Republic.

The PPA was founded in 2018 as the premier provider of professional and amateur pickleball events. In 2021, the PPA will welcome between 15,000-20,000 players and award payouts of more than $1 million in tournaments across the U.S. and in Canada.

In attendance will be the top men and women pickleball players in the world, with 22-year-old Ben Johnson as the top-ranked man, and Simone Jardim, a mother of two, as the top-ranked female.

The organizing sponsor, Takeya, manufactures quality water bottles used and promoted by both Kendall and Kylie Jenner.

Tickets can be purchased at https://tickets.ppatour.com/events/showcase/event_times.

Daily schedule of play for the professionals:

–Thursday, Aug. 5: Men’s Professional Singles and Women’s Professional Singles.

–Friday, Aug. 6: Mixed Professional Doubles.

–Saturday, Aug. 7: Men’s Professional Doubles and Women’s Professional Doubles. 1 p.m. – Men’s Professional Doubles Semi-Final #1; 2 p.m. – Men’s Professional Doubles Semi-Final #2; 3 p.m. – Women’s Professional Doubles Semi-Finals #1; 4 p.m. – Women’s Professional Doubles Semi-Final #2; and 5:30 p.m. – Mixed Professional Doubles Championship.

–Sunday, Aug. 8: 9 a.m. – Women’s Professional Singles Championship; 10:30 a.m. – Men’s Professional Singles Championship; 12 p.m. – Women’s Professional Doubles Championship; and 1:30 p.m. – Men’s Professional Doubles Championship.

The Tennis Club at Newport Beach is located at 11 Clubhouse Drive, Newport Beach, behind Newport Beach Country Club. 

For more information go to the www.ppatour.com/events/takeya-showcase/.

Newport Beach – A Look Back

Photo series courtesy of Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach

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318 Marine Ave., circa 1940, which is where Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop is now located

Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach and the Museum Store are located at 210 B Marine Ave., Balboa Island. They are open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free general admission on all days. Two-hour parking is available on Marine Avenue. For more information, call 949.675.3952, visit www.balboaislandmuseum.org, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Letters to the Editor

It’s time for City Council to step up

This last Tuesday the City Council approved the 2510 West Coast Highway project in the Mariners’ Mile area. The project has 36 apartments, three of which are affordable and 33 which are market rate. The City of Newport Beach has a state-mandated requirement to plan for 1,918 additional low and very low-income apartments during the next housing cycle. You’ve probably heard it referred to as RHNA (Regional Housing Needs Allocation). A housing cycle is eight years. The 1,918 number does not include a few projects that are in the pipeline or are already planned from the last housing cycle.   

We can lop off 1,000 units if we can develop 1,000 new Accessory Dwelling Units (granny flats), either by homeowners building new ones or by bringing some of the hundreds we have existing in the City into compliance with current building codes. 

That leaves 918 low and very low-income apartments needed to meet our RHNA allocation. Any sixth grader can do the math, 918 units minus three units in the 2510 West Coast Highway project, leaves 915 units. Meanwhile, we have added another 33 market rate units to get the three affordable units.    

The formula that is used for the Housing Element gets complicated. There are Density Bonuses that developers get based on a sliding scale, so the more affordable units they include in their projects, the more units they can build at market rate, but in the simplest terms, we need to add 10,000+ apartments. By the way, for context, we currently have about 45,000 residential units in Newport Beach. That’s nearly impossible to imagine! 

The State does allow cities to have an “Inclusionary Ordinance.” Many cities around us have them. An Inclusionary Ordinance requires a developer to include a certain percentage of affordable units in their project. This is less profitable than including 5 percent or 10 percent but is still common. For example, a 30 percent Inclusionary Ordinance would mean that in a project with 100 apartments, a developer would be required to include 30 affordable units and 70 units would be allowed at market rate. The rent charged for the market rate apartments helps to offset the loss that the developer has on the reduced rate affordable units. 

I think everyone can see that we need to have some amount of affordable housing in our city for our seniors, or our young adult children, as well as our restaurant, hospitality and health care workers who are not yet able to afford housing in our city. It is to our benefit to let these folks live near the places they work. 

But that’s not my point. My point is, that the City Council could develop and approve an Inclusionary Ordinance in pretty short order, maybe within a few months. Instead, they spent a lot of time in the City Council meeting this week, saying that they were helpless and blaming it on the State for the new housing laws that tied their hands. It is true that there are a lot of recent housing laws that restrict or remove a City’s right to control its zoning. However, given that there is SOMETHING, ANYTHING, that they can do to help reduce the overall massive numbers of residential units that are required to comply with our RHNA allocation, you would think that they would get to work on an Inclusionary Ordinance immediately. Instead, the Council majority has kicked the can down the road for a year. I think it’s time they get to work on this instead of muttering about being handcuffed and helpless. 

Nancy Scarbrough

Newport Beach 

Speed bumps are the answer

Congratulations to city officials for finally addressing the issue of speeding cars in the Baycrest neighborhood. Speed bumps have been placed in three areas of the neighborhood. On my morning dog walk I cross Santiago Drive and Tradewinds on my way to the Back Bay entrance. In the past it was usual to see cars exceeding 45 miles per hour in a 25-mph zone…I can attest that this no longer occurs. The speed bumps are to be commended. 

Now let’s get more in place. 

Jim Padden

Newport Beach

Numbers are up, so masks will be back in style

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) updated its Guidance for Face Coverings, in response to new CDC guidance recommending mask use for public indoor settings to slow the spread of COVID-19 and the Delta variant.

Effective last week, masks are required for all individuals in the following indoor settings, regardless of vaccination status:

–On public transit (examples: airplanes, ships, ferries, trains, subways, buses, taxis and ride-shares) and in transportation hubs (examples: airports, bus terminals, marinas, train stations, seaports or other ports, subway stations, or any other area that provides transportation).

–Indoors in K-12 schools, childcare.

–Emergency shelters and cooling centers.

–Health care settings.

–State and local correctional facilities and detention centers.

–Congregate settings such as homeless shelters.

–Long Term Care Settings & Adult and Senior Care Facilities.

Masks are required for unvaccinated individuals and recommended for fully vaccinated individuals in indoor public settings and businesses (examples: retail, restaurants, theaters, family entertainment centers, meetings and state and local government offices serving the public). It is important to wear a mask if you are around someone that is high risk, with unvaccinated children, or with people whose vaccination status is unknown especially indoors. 

In settings where masks are required only for unvaccinated individuals, businesses, venue operators, or hosts may choose to:

–Provide information to all patrons, guests and attendees regarding vaccination requirements and allow vaccinated individuals to self-attest that they are in compliance prior to entry.

–Implement vaccine verification to determine whether individuals are required to wear a mask.

–Require all patrons to wear masks.

For complete information and FAQs on the state’s current mask guidance, click here. 

In addition to updated mask guidance, the state issued a new order requiring certain high-risk health care facilities, including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, high-risk congregate settings and other health care settings, to verify vaccine status of all workers. Additional requirements on respirators/masks and testing for unvaccinated workers also apply in these settings. 

The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) advises all residents to refer to the CDPH’s guidance regarding masks and requirements for high-risk health care facilities. HCA strongly encourages everyone to avoid large crowds, where it is easy for the virus to pass from person to person. It also encourages those who have not yet been vaccinated to schedule a vaccination appointment as soon as possible by visiting www.Othena.com or calling the OC COVID-19 Hotline at 714.834.2000. 

Orange County COVID-19 case counts and testing figures are updated each Friday in Stu News.

Tickets on sale for 25th Annual “Summer Garden Party” at Sherman Library & Gardens 

The Volunteer Association of Sherman Library & Gardens presents a “Summer Garden Party” fundraiser on Saturday, Aug. 28 from 4-8 p.m. throughout Sherman Gardens.

The Summer Garden Party is the in-person piece of this year’s 25th Annual Newport Beach Virtual Garden Tour. Upon arrival, guests will receive a map guiding them to all of the Garden Party highlights which include:

–Artists in the Garden: Hand-selected local artists, who served as “Artists in the Gardens” for the Garden Tour, will be painting throughout Sherman Gardens during the party. Many of their original works will be for sale with proceeds benefiting Sherman Library & Gardens. 

–Bouquet Bar: Select from a variety of blooms and create a custom bouquet to take home. Sherman Gardens’ certified floral designer, Dawn Mones, will be on hand to assist guests with their selections. 

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Photos courtesy of Sherman Library & Gardens

Stefanie Kristiansen, a previous Garden Party Hat contestant, shows off her millinery creation

–Garden Party Hat Contest: Guests are invited to enter the Garden Party Hat Contest upon arrival. Winners for Best Garden-Themed Hat, Best DIY/Handmade Hat and Best Hat & Garden Ensemble will be chosen by three impartial judges from Orange Coast Magazine, Recycled Rags in Corona del Mar and South Coast Plaza’s Stylist Program. 

–greenHOUSE: Attendees will enjoy Sherman Gardens’ interactive summer exhibit greenHOUSE: A collection of lavish “living” rooms with a botanical twist, on display throughout the Gardens. 

–Posey Frame: Pose for photos behind an elaborate frame of flowers created by Sherman Library & Gardens’ horticulturists. The Posey Frame will be located in the Succulent Garden.

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A special silent auction item is the “Table for 12” dining experience, a four-course dinner with wine pairings, created by Cultivar Executive Chef Jessica Roy

–Silent Auction & Raffle: Win unique gifts and experiences donated by local merchants and restaurants. A special silent auction item is the “Table for 12” dining experience. The winning bidder and 11 friends will experience a four-course dinner with wine pairings, created by Cultivar Executive Chef Jessica Roy. Dinner will be served on the long table in “The Formal Dining Room” – part of Sherman Library & Gardens’ greenHOUSE summer exhibit. “Table for 12” promises to be a unique, one-of-a-kind experience.

In addition, enjoy live music, delicious food, a no-host bar and much, much more.

Tickets to the “Summer Garden Party” are $50 for members and $60 for non-members. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.thesherman.org or call 949.673.2261, ext. 300. 

Proceeds from the “Summer Garden Party” support children’s education programs. Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 E. Coast Highway in Corona del Mar.

School Notes

District names new Cloud Campus principal

Dr. Racquel Stephens was selected as principal of Cloud Campus, Newport-Mesa Unified School District’s 100 percent (K-12) virtual school. She is an experienced educator, starting her career as a third grade teacher, serving as a mathematics teacher and most recently as district K-12 Coordinator of Online Learning for the Irvine Unified School District (IUSD).

As the coordinator, Dr. Stephens was the curriculum leader for secondary content areas for IUSD Virtual Academy that served more than 13,000 elementary and secondary students and 500 teachers. Her responsibilities included collaborative online course development; staff hiring, mentorship and evaluations; contributing to master schedule planning and enrollment; and parent, student, staff and community communication. She also worked closely with the educational technology team to provide staff development, implement innovative digital curriculum design and establish best practices in educational technology.

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Courtesy of NMUSD

Dr. Racquel Stephens

Dr. Stephens possesses a vast range of experience in education, serving in a variety of roles from elementary and high school to higher education settings. She has served as lead math teacher, department chair and instructional coach, lead teacher of online course development, virtual teacher, and was the owner and operator of a summer academic enrichment program serving multiple communities in Southern California.

“Her wealth of knowledge, varied experience and leadership in virtual instruction make Dr. Stephens a perfect fit to lead our virtual school, Cloud Campus,” said Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education Kerrie Torres.

Known as an enthusiastic leader, Dr. Stephens collaboratively supports new and veteran teachers helping to create an optimal online environment for students. She also is known for analyzing complex issues within an organization, both from a structural and a cultural perspective, to provide vision and programs for continuously improving student learning and teacher support. 

She obtained her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from California State University, Fullerton; her Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from California State Polytechnic, Pomona; and has obtained multiple credentials.

She will begin her new role on August 9.

Newport Beach resident serves as “shark” for Girls Inc. of Orange County

Girls Inc. of Orange County, the Santa Ana-based affiliate of the national nonprofit whose mission is to inspire girls to be smart, strong and bold, hosted its second annual Shark Tank Showcase as a part of its summer Smart-Ups program.

Newport Beach resident and President and CEO of Sabra Health Care Rick Matros served as a “shark” for the event, and offered strategic entrepreneurship advice and generous business investments to the young female entrepreneurs of Girls Inc.

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Submitted photo

Rick Matros

“It’s an honor to be involved with Girls Inc. and the Smarts-Up program. The girls continually show us how strong, smart and bold they are,” said Matros.

Girls Inc.’s Shark Tank-style showcase is part of the nonprofit’s Smart-Ups program for business-savvy fourth through sixth grade girls to “pitch” their businesses via Zoom to “shark” investors. Matros’ participation in the event presented opportunities for the young women of Girl’s Inc. to learn the art of business deals first-hand and become inspired to take on future leadership opportunities.

Established in 1954 as the Harbor Area Girls Club, Girls Inc. of Orange County has been a respected member of the nonprofit community for 65 years. The organization positively changes the lives of more than 3,500 girls, ages 5-18, each year, by providing year-round holistic, compensatory and intentional programming focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math), financial literacy, entrepreneurship, sound body image, healthy relationships, and college and career readiness. To learn more, visit www.girlsinc-oc.org.

Are you doing your fair share?

Philanthropy is the lifeblood of nonprofits throughout our community and across the country. Kindness funds help to the homeless and downtrodden; children, who in many cases, would have to do without; medical and health support for so many who are out of other options; and so much more.

Our Spotlight on Philanthropy is designed to show you the inner workings of programs touching our community and, hopefully, encourage you to take a closer look.

Featured Charitable Organization:

Tell us about the Newport Harbor Educational Foundation (NHEF)?

Our mission is to promote academic excellence and enhance educational opportunities for all students at Newport Harbor High School (NHHS).

We were founded in 1995 by the Newport Harbor High School Navigators, a fathers’ group dedicated to improving the quality of education at NHHS. The foundation’s original five directors were Tim Hogan, John Polovina, Rick Robinson and Bob Steel.

Over the years that followed, with the tremendous generosity from donors (including parents, grandparents, alumni, local businesses, along with private and corporate foundations), $17,200,000 has been raised since 1995 for the betterment of Newport Harbor High School. 

So, who do you serve?

We serve all 2,300 students at Newport Harbor High School (grades 9-12), of which 60 percent reside in Costa Mesa and 40 percent reside in Newport Beach. Five public elementary schools assimilate into NHHS including Whittier, Kaiser, Mariners, Newport and Newport Heights, in addition to students from other private K-8 schools.

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Photos courtesy of NHEF

Newport Harbor High students participating in a hands-on physics robotics class

What ongoing programs does NHEF support?

We like to say we fund programs with C.L.A.S.S.:

Computers and classroom technology which includes a state-of-the-art world language lab, curriculum software, digital cameras, and iPads and high-tech tools to enhance teaching and student learning.

Learning assistance to raise the achievements of all students with free tutoring in all subjects by college students, including free evening math lab tutoring by NHHS math teachers and an AVID college prep program (Advancement Via Individual Determination).

Academic enhancement which provides 19 rigorous Advanced Placement (AP) and 19 International Baccalaureate (IB) courses to challenge students and to prepare them for America’s finest universities. 

Safe school environment provided by our Link Crew program that matches each freshman with an upper-class mentor, a nurse’s aide that keeps students healthy, and the Angel Fund which provides grocery gift cards to our food insecure and homeless families. 

Success after high school means making professional mentors available to all juniors to take advantage of NHHS career exploration programs, and the award-winning culinary arts, entrepreneurship, computer and film/TV vocational programs that promote student-driven success after graduation.

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Tutoring by college students at Newport Harbor High 

Why should people donate to support NHEF and how do they do it?

NHEF pledges $500,000 each school year to NHHS to provide the wide variety of programs to help students succeed in their journey through high school.

Donations can be made online at www.SupportNHHS.com or checks can be mailed payable to NHEF, c/o Newport Harbor Educational Foundation, 600 Irvine Ave., Newport Beach, CA 92663.

Are there ways for people to volunteer and get involved in the Foundation?

Volunteer opportunities are available for the annual Anchors Aweigh gala, our Home Tour and the Grandparents’ Day luncheon.

We also have committees to plan our annual events. The Foundation works with the Associated Student Body (ASB) and NHHS Parent Teacher Association (PTA) to welcome freshmen families at “Welcome Aboard” and to orient freshmen families at “Anchor Down.”

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Newport Harbor High School’s Robins Hall – Loats Theater

What are the Foundation’s major fundraisers?

To bring the Harbor community together and build on the strong tradition of Sailor PRIDE, we have the following fundraisers: the Anchors Aweigh Gala which will be held March 4, 2022, with an online auction leading up to the event. It promises to be a fun evening enjoyed at Balboa Bay Resort that will include dinner, with dancing to the live band Flash Pants, plus silent and live auctions. Tickets will be available in early 2022 at www.BiddingForGood.com/nhef.

We also have our signature Newport Harbor Home Tour, which is planned for May 12, 2022 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Attendees will tour a spectacular collection of homes and beautifully appointed gardens and enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking Newport Harbor. Tickets will be available online in January 2022 at www.NewportHarborHomeTour.com.

Who is the leadership group that oversees the NHEF? 

NHEF has a board of directors comprised of 38 members from the NHHS parents’ community. Our leaders are:

Jamie Mathisrud – Co-President

Rory O’Neil – Co-President

Natalie Pickup – Treasurer

Dena Baron – Anchors Aweigh Co-Chair

Jamie Mathisrud – Anchors Aweigh Co-Chair

Georgina Forbath – Annual Campaign Co-Chair

Christin Gurka – Annual Campaign Co-Chair

Craig Atkins – Matching Gifts/Major Donors 

Ryan Steelberg – Matching Gifts/Major Donors

Grant Bixby – Navigators Chairman

Diana Long – Executive Director This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Newport Harbor Educational Foundation

On-campus office:

NHHS – Room 181 of Sims Hall

600 Irvine Ave.

Newport Beach, CA 92663

949.646.1556 ext. 1

www.supportnhhs.com

Spotlight on Philanthropy is underwritten by

Vanguard University joins with JWA for human trafficking awareness and training 

Last Thursday, on July 29, John Wayne Airport (JWA) engaged Vanguard University’s Global Center for Women and Justice to provide comprehensive awareness and action training on human trafficking to airport tenants and employees.

As major transportation hubs, airports are well-positioned to recognize human trafficking throughout their facilities. Learning key indicators of human trafficking, raising awareness of the crime and knowing how to report suspected trafficking incidents are just some of the ways JWA is training staff to play a critical role in ending this crime.

“It is incredibly important that we provide the tools and training for our employees to stay alert and maintain awareness for potential instances of criminality throughout the airport,” said Barry Rondinella, airport director. “Armed with this information, they will know how to respond when they suspect human trafficking.”

Founded in 2003, the Global Center for Women and Justice is a nonprofit organization housed within Vanguard University of Southern California committed to advancing the global status of women, children, at-risk and vulnerable populations and ending human trafficking through research, education, advocacy, collaboration and hope.

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Courtesy of JWA

Derek Marsh (front left) and Dr. Sandra Morgan (front right) present awareness and action training on human trafficking to JWA staff

Facilitating the class was Sandra Morgan, RN, Ph.D. In her role as director of the Global Center for Women and Justice at Vanguard, she leads research, education and advocacy directly related to the exploitation of women and children. Dr. Morgan’s experience serving exploited women, men and children includes acting as a past administrator of the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF) and providing direct care as a pediatric nurse volunteer with Doctors of the World (Athens, Greece). Recently, she served as co-chair of the Public-Private Partnership Advisory Council to End Human Trafficking by presidential appointment.

“This is a space where we can study these issues and use our voices to make a difference locally, nationally and globally through education and outreach,” said Dr. Morgan. “Most people think of this crime only on a global level, when the reality is that it is happening at the local level right here in areas like Orange County. We provide opportunity to join this discussion and respond to this call for action in the fight against human exploitation.”

Also presenting was Derek Marsh, MA, MPA, assistant director, a retiree of the Westminster Police Department with 26 years of service. He helped establish the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF) and has since presented anti-HT trainings across the U.S. and internationally. He taught undergraduate courses at Vanguard University, and develops and teaches criminal justice and human trafficking courses. 

Dr. Morgan and Marsh were accompanied by Shyima Hall, a human trafficking advocate and survivor leader. Hall was born in Egypt and sold into slavery at the age of 8. When she was 10, her captors brought her to the U.S. on an illegally obtained temporary visa, and two years later she was rescued by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials and moved to a group home. Hall became an American citizen at age 21, hopes to become an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent, and is author of her memoir, Hidden Girl: The True Story of a Modern-Day Child Slave.

Along with staff training, JWA continues to collaborate with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s efforts to combat human trafficking. Informational signage from the national public awareness Blue Campaign has been strategically placed throughout the terminal to educate guests traveling through JWA on how to report suspected instances of human trafficking.

For additional information about John Wayne Airport, visit www.ocair.com.

National Night Out takes place today

The Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD) invites you to join in celebrating National Night Out today (Tuesday, Aug. 3) from 4-7 p.m. at Bonita Canyon Sports Park.

There will be information on crime and drug prevention, home security, child safety, the Citizens’ Police Academy and Volunteers In Policing. The event will have displays from CSI, SWAT, their K-9 Officers, Animal Control, Horse Mounted Unit, CERT and more.

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Courtesy of NBPD

There will also be games, balloon animals and plenty of activities for the kids. McGruff “The Crime Fighting Dog” will be in attendance. There will be photo opportunities and food, so don’t forget to bring your camera and your appetite. 

Bring your family and friends to spend the evening with the NBPD as together we “Give Crime & Drugs A Going Away Party!” The event is suitable for all ages.

Bonita Canyon Sports Park is located at 1990 Ford Road, Newport Beach. The park is located east of MacArthur Boulevard between Bonita Canyon Drive and Ford Road.

For more information, visit www.nbpd.org/community/crimeprevention/nno.asp or call the Crime Prevention Unit at 949.644.3699.

Beauty at Bayside Drive

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Photo by Todd Walker (Instagram @twalkerphotograph/www.twalkerphoto.com)

Boats and nighttime lights guide the way in Newport Beach

Pet of the Week 

Stu News Newport is delighted to be working with the Newport Beach Animal Shelter to help get the word out in search of loving homes for pets that deserve a warm, nurturing environment and a place to call “home.”

Welcome Pumba to the adoption circuit. He is such an absolutely great boy who wants a family that he can cuddle up and watch movies with. At 12 years of age, he is an easy special needs pup. As a pug/beagle mix, he only needs an herb a day to keep him healthy. If you’ve been waiting for a totally joyful dog to fill your life, then Pumba is your good-natured gentleman. 

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Courtesy of Newport Beach Animal Shelter

Meet Pumba

The shelter is actively taking appointments to do meet and greets, so feel free to reach out on their landline at 949.718.3454. They do require completed application forms for their animals, so simply print one up from their nonprofit’s webpage at www.FONBAS.org. After it is completed, you can email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and after review, they’ll call you to schedule an appointment. They truly look forward to meeting you and introducing you to Pumba, who wants to be part of your family.

Newport Beach Animal Shelter adoption fees:

–Adult Dogs - $150

–Puppies - $225

–Adult Cats - $90

–Kittens - $110

–Rabbits - $45

Also, consider becoming a member of an incredible nonprofit that supports the city’s efforts with providing wonderful opportunities to stray, injured, ill and owner-surrendered domestic pets.

Good Morning CdM! features Councilman Noah Blom addressing airport issues

The Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce will present its “Good Morning CdM!” monthly meeting on Thursday, Aug. 12 from 7:30-9 a.m. at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club. 

The free meeting, with complimentary coffee and pastries, will feature Newport Beach Councilmember Noah Blom who is a member of the Aviation Committee.

Courtesy of the City of Newport Beach

Newport Beach Councilmember Noah Blom

The topic to be addressed is Newport Beach aviation updates, highlighting quieter technologies for air travel, air traffic post pandemic, forecasting travel demand recovery, goals and priorities and more.

The gathering will also provide updates from the local legislative office representatives, including Newport Beach City Councilwoman Joy Brenner, from District 6; Congresswoman Michelle Steel, 48th District; State Senator Dave Min, 37th District; Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, 74th District; and Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley from the 2nd District.

The meeting is open to the community at large, and no RSVP is necessary.

The Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club is located at 1601 Bayside Drive, Corona del Mar. 

For more information, visit www.cdmchamber.com.

Rep. Steel introduces resolution to designate August 24 as “Kobe Bryant Day”

Rep. Michelle Steel (CA-48) announced the introduction of a congressional resolution to designate August 24, 2021, as “Kobe Bryant Day,” in honor of the basketball legend who tragically passed away last year. Bryant was a Newport Beach resident and lived in the 48th Congressional District with his family. The date August 24 honors Bryant’s two numbers during his 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, No. 8 and No. 24.

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Courtesy of the Office of Rep. Michelle Steel

Rep. Steel before introducing the Kobe Bryant resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives

“Kobe Bryant used his platform to inspire millions and help kids around the world achieve success and strive for greatness. On August 24, we should remember Kobe, celebrate his life and encourage the next generation to dream big just like Kobe did,” said Rep. Steel.

Last year as Chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, Rep. Steel led an effort to pass a similar resolution in honor of Bryant. You can view a copy of the resolution here.

WAKE UP! Newport returns to in-person with guest speaker Sheriff Don Barnes on Thursday

The Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce will feature Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes at the next WAKE UP! Newport on Thursday, Aug. 5. A complimentary continental breakfast will be served at the “back in person” meeting that takes place in the Friends Room of the Newport Beach Public Library.

The sheriff will talk about national threats including terrorism, trafficking and cybercrimes; the sheriff’s Behavioral Health Bureau; police reform proposals and the prevalence of fentanyl in our communities.

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Courtesy of OCSD

Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes

Sheriff Barnes was elected the 13th Sheriff-Coroner for the OC in November 2018. He began his service with the department in 1989. He leads initiatives aimed at reducing the prevalence of drugs, enhancing school safety, mitigating the impacts of homelessness and advocating for the restoration of accountability to our criminal justice system.

WAKE UP! Newport is a free event that also features the opportunity to meet one-on-one with legislative and government officials and to stay current on local, state and federal issues.

To attend, registrations are required and can be made here. The breakfast begins at 7:15 a.m. with the program taking place from 7:45-8:30 a.m.

The Newport Beach Public Library is located at 1000 Avocado Ave.

Local architect/artist has work featured in Watercolor West exhibition

Stu News has published art from Don Krotee, a Corona del Mar architect and artist since 2018. Among the many pieces he has sent us was a scene from one of his trips north up 395 to Mammoth in May. In this work, there is a cattle ranch, just south of Lone Pine where he had stopped the car, took a reference photo and sketched a pencil drawing of the tall grass, partly hiding the cattle and other farm irrigation equipment. The scene is framed by the gray granite of the Sierra Nevada in the distance. Under the mountains is a foothill area known as the Alabama Hills, a brown, rocky expanse, just beyond the ranch buildings in the distance.

Krotee submitted this painting in Watercolor West’s 53rd Annual International Juried Exhibition and it was selected to be shown...a most prestigious honor. Readers may recognize the work from our May 25 edition, when he titled the work Along 395.

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Courtesy of Don Krotee

Artist Don Krotee’s recent work, “Alabama Hills,” was selected for Watercolor West’s 53rd international competition

In Krotee’s bio that accompanies his artwork, he mentions that he has been drawing and painting from an early age. He was taught by his grandmother, an accomplished oil painter. He further honed his skills at Temple University and the University of Arizona, where his professional training, as an architect, emphasized drawing as a communication skill and tool. The teaching of perspective and the drawing of buildings, in a setting, naturally led to an understanding of all the basics of classic landscape painting. As Krotee drew illustrations as an architect, showing realistic entourage, people, cars, trees and walks, it was a natural step to make the work in watercolor. And all the basic elements were on the paper for the showing of a classic landscape painting.

Twelve years ago, Krotee put aside increased time to devote to watermedia painting, showing his work more seriously for artistic commissions and competition. The joy of painting became the main objective, more recently developing those paintings outside, referred to as plein air.

Transparent watercolor is the specific media for which Watercolor West champions. The society has a very comprehensive and stern transparent policy where no opaque paint, of any kind is allowed. This challenges the artist to allow only unpainted parts of the paper to be the “whitest whites” to highlight the subject within the painting. And it is this, sometimes difficult media, where no “masking of the artist’s paper” is acceptable, where Krotee continues to excel. 

For more information on Watercolor West, visit the website at https://watercolorwest48.wildapricot.org.

Amateurs encouraged to sign up now for 2021 Surf Championships

The City of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Department is presenting the 2021 Surf Championships taking place Saturday, Sept. 18 and Sunday, Sept. 19 at 54th or 56th Street, depending on the best conditions. Open only to amateurs, space is limited so those interested in participating are urged to register early.

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Courtesy of the City of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Dept.

2021 Surf Championships take place September 18 and 19

Amateur Divisions:

–Elementary (11 and under)

–Middle School (12-14 years of age)

–High School (15-18 years of age)

–Open Men’s (19+ years of age)

–Masters (30+ years of age)

–Legends (40+ years of age)

–Open Girls (All ages)

Register online or in person. Entry fees: $30, deadline is September 15; Day of the event, $40 if spaces are available. Register at www.newportbeachca.gov/champs. For more information, call 949.644.3151.

Get out and explore Buck Gully this summer and into autumn

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

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Photos by Emily Spain

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

–Buck Gully Loop Hikes: Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system on Tuesdays, Aug. 10 and 17 and Sept. 7 and 28 from 8-11:30 a.m. Beginning from the OASIS Senior Center, you’ll hike up through the almost three-mile length of the canyon, then along San Joaquin Hills Road for about a mile, stopping at Canyon Watch Park, where you will take in the panoramic view of the reserve and the Pacific coastline before descending back into the canyon along the Bobcat Trail. This hike is six miles; the duration is 3.5 hours with high-moderate difficulty and conducted at a walking pace, approximately three miles per hour. It is geared to those 12+ years of age. This hike is free, but registration is required. Meet at the OASIS Senior Center auxiliary lot at 5th and Marguerite in Corona del Mar. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

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Several bridges provide unique vantages and viewing platforms

–Bridges of Buck Gully Hikes: Buck Gully is a natural, coastal canyon which opened up to the public in 2012 with the installation of four bridges to allow for safe public access. Discover the bridges on Saturdays, Aug. 14 and Sept. 11 and Tuesdays, Aug. 31 and Sept. 21 from 8-11:30 a.m. These bridges facilitate exploration of the Buck Gully Reserve, and also provide unique vantages and viewing platforms from which to pause and observe the abundant life in and around the stream. The guided program starts with a short walk from the OASIS Senior Center to the beginning of the Buck Gully trail, offering a visually dramatic entrance into this special canyon. Open to those 12 years and older. Conducted at a walking pace at approximately three miles per hour. Distance is 5 miles; duration is 3.5 hours with moderate difficulty. This hike is free, but registration is required. Meet at the OASIS Senior Center auxiliary lot at 5th and Marguerite in Corona del Mar. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

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The stream is running, making for a memorable late afternoon/early evening hike

–Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hikes: Explore the richness of Buck Gully Reserve as you hike during the beautiful early evening hours on Tuesdays, Aug. 3 and 24 and Sept. 14 from 3:30-6 p.m. The stream is running, and the rich plant and animal life are enjoying the cool, shady canyon, making for a memorable 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. The distance is four miles; the duration is 2.5 hours with moderate difficulty. This hike is open to those 8 years and older. The hike is free, but registration is required. The staging area is the Newport Coast Community Center at 6401 San Joaquin Hills Road. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.

City’s Concerts on the Green and at Marina Park keep the sounds coming this summer and fall

The City of Newport Beach Arts Commission’s summer and fall Concerts on the Green and at Marina Park continue pumping out the tunes.

DSB (Don’t Stop Believin’) comes to the Civic Center Green on Sunday, Aug. 22 from 6-7:30 p.m.

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Photos courtesy of the City of Newport Beach

DSB (Don’t Stop Believin’), highly revered as one of the world’s greatest tributes to Journey, takes the stage August 22

DSB (Don’t Stop Believin’) has been highly revered as one of the world’s greatest tributes to Journey. They have captured the signature sound of renowned vocalist Steve Perry and Journey in their prime. Complete with a band of world-class musicians, DSB remains true to Journey’s musical legacy and delivers a nostalgic concert experience.”

Then, on Sunday, Sept. 26 from 6-7:30 p.m., don’t miss SantanaWays on stage at the Civic Center Green.

SantanaWays brings its Latin and blues rock to Concerts on the Green on September 26

“SantanaWays is an electrifying Latin and blues rock band that has inspired audiences in Southern California since its formation in 2012. SantanaWays pays homage to the music of Santana in the purest manner by bringing out the heart and soul of the music.”

Knyght Ryder, a favorite 80s tribute band, comes to Marina Park on September 26

Down on the Peninsula on Sunday, Sept. 26, Knyght Ryder kicks off the 2021 Concert at Marina Park series. Catch this favorite 80s tribute band from 4-6 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of fun with rock, R&B and pop sounds, complete with bay views.

Vocalist/pianist Shelley Rusk will perform some of Broadway’s greatest musicals in Marina Park on October 17

Finally, Shelley Rusk will culminate the Marina Park concerts on Sunday, Oct. 17 from 4-5:30 p.m. She will be performing songs from some of Broadway’s greatest musicals of all time. As a professional singer, Rusk has worked for music artists such as Johnny Mathis, Dolly Parton, Donna Summer, Sandi Patty, Ray Boltz and Bill Gaither both in the recording studio and in concert. 

All concerts offer free admission and free parking. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, low beach chairs and a picnic dinner, or perhaps purchase from food trucks on-site. No alcohol is allowed.

Participating food trucks include Barcelona OntheGo on August 22, SOHO TACO on September 26 and The Coconut Truck on October 17.

Local favorite Sugar ‘n Spice, the Original Frozen Banana since 1945, will be on hand for all performances.

For more information, visit www.newportbeachca.gov/culturalarts.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts’ summer outdoor music continues at Argyros Plaza

Segerstrom Center for the Arts (SCFTA) continues its summer outdoor music at the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza this month…so get out to listen to The Lucky Band and put on your dancing shoes for Silent Disco.

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Courtesy of SCFTA.org

The Lucky Band

The Center’s first ever Family Outdoor Concert Series showcases The Lucky Band on Saturday, Aug. 7 at 1 p.m. Formerly known as Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band, The Lucky Band has won multiple Grammy and Emmy awards for their smart crafty lyrics with irresistibly fresh pop beats. They’ve been called “bilingual pop joy” by NPR, “THE face of kindie music” by the Washington Post and “the children’s Beatles” by Entertainment Weekly. Led by married couple Lucky Diaz and Alisha Gaddis and based in Los Angeles, their songs in both Spanish and English are rooted in their whimsical child-friendly imaginations and offer a musical and topical range aimed at exploring all of the wonder and joy of a young person’s life. After 11 years and 11 albums, they’re fresher than ever with a new name and new album, Paseo Lunar. Tickets start at $15, and activities and food trucks are available from 12-3 p.m. 

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Photo by Stan Sholik

Silent Disco on Argyros Plaza

To celebrate the end of summer, Argyros Plaza gets its groove back with Silent Disco. Come dance the night away on Saturday, Aug. 28 from 7-10 p.m. Silent DJs will return to the outdoor stage with everyone’s favorite tunes, times three. With three channels to choose from on your light up headphones, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you love party classics, or EDM, the Silent DJs will have you up and moving on the dance floor. Tickets start at $25.

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 savings of 10 or more, call the Group Services office at 714.755.0236.

Pacific Symphony to perform Toy Story in Concert on August 21

Live music is back in Orange County! Pacific Symphony returns to Pacific Amphitheatre at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa for the West Coast premiere of Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story in Concert – Live with Orchestra on Saturday, Aug. 21 at 8 p.m.

Two rival toys – a lanky, likable cowboy named Woody and Buzz Lightyear, the fearless space ranger – vie for a place in the heart of their owner, Andy. The toys plot against each other, but when they’re separated from their human, they find a way to work together as friends to be reunited with Andy again.

Considered by many to be one of the best animated films ever made, Toy Story received three Academy Award nominations, including one for “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Randy Newman. Pacific Symphony musicians will perform Newman’s memorable, touching score live-to-screen at the outdoor Orange County venue, led by guest conductor Sarah Hicks. 

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Courtesy of Pacific Symphony

The West Coast premiere of “Toy Story in Concert” takes place at Pacific Amphitheatre at the OC Fair on August 21

Single tickets for Toy Story in Concert are on sale now through Ticketmaster, starting at just $25. For more information, visit the Pacific Symphony website at www.PacificSymphony.org. 

Summerfest 2021 season sponsors include PBS SoCal, K-Earth 101, KPCC 89.3 FM and Classical KUSC 91.5. Avenue of the Arts Hotel in Costa Mesa is the official hotel of Pacific Symphony. Toy Story in Concert is co-presented with the OC Fair & Event Center. The presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. ^©All rights are reserved.

 COVID-19 safety protocols continue to evolve at a rapid pace and audience safety is Pacific Symphony’s priority. In partnership with the OC Fair & Event team, they will be using current CDC recommendations to create reopening policies and procedures. For the most up-to-date safety information, go to www.PacificSymphony.org/Safety.

David Foster | Hitman Tour to kick off Pacific Symphony’s Pop series 

Pacific Symphony announces its highly anticipated 2021-22 Pops series underwritten by the Sharon J. and Thomas E. Malloy Family, featuring seven not-to-be-missed concerts that include romance, Broadway, nostalgia, festive holiday cheer and classic rock – all enhanced by the “Hollywood” sound of the orchestra. The season opens with “An Intimate Evening with David Foster | Hitman Tour” on November 5-6 at 8 p.m. with the “Midtown Men Holiday” taking place on December 17-18 at 8 p.m.

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Photos courtesy of Pacific Symphony

David Foster at the piano

Back by popular demand, 16-time Grammy Award winner David Foster returns to Pacific Symphony to perform songs from his unparalleled catalog. Popular hits – written for artists including Andrea Bocelli, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, Olivia Newton-John, Barbra Streisand and many others – include “You’re the Inspiration,” “The Prayer,” “The Glory of Love” and “St. Elmo’s Fire.”

Then to transport you to the holiday season, the “Midtown Men Holiday” brightens the stage on December 17-18 at 8 p.m. From the Four Seasons to the yuletide, the Midtown Men, reuniting stars from the Broadway smash-hit Jersey Boys, deck the halls with festive cheer, timeless tunes, top-shelf choreography and incredible vocal performances. This evening of songs and stories will feature iconic classics such as “Winter Wonderland,” “Let It Snow” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” as well as their signature renditions of the greatest rock ‘n roll hits of the 1960s.

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Pacific Symphony led by conductor Carl St.Clair

In the New Year, mark your calendar for these Pop presentations: “An Evening with Katherine Jenkins” (February 11-12, 2022); “Boz Scaggs” (March 18-19, 2022); “Cirque de la Symphonie” (April 22-23, 2022); “ABBA the Concert: A Tribute to ABBA” (May 13-14, 2022); and culminating in a grand finale, “Blockbuster Broadway!” (June 3-4, 2022). 

All concerts take place in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Hall, Costa Mesa. Available for purchase at this time are seven-concert Pops subscriptions starting at $245 and a Pops Choose Your Own four-concert package beginning at $140. Single tickets go on sale August 16.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 714.755.5799 or visit www.PacificSymphony.org/Pops.

Join Lido Paddle Project fundraiser at ALYC on August 28

On Saturday, Aug. 28, Lido Paddle Project (LLP) is having its first Newport Beach fundraiser at the American Legion Yacht Club (ALYC), against the backdrop of beautiful Newport Harbor. Guests can walk, drive, or bring their boats to the dock by 15th Street. The event will run from 4-9 p.m. with limited ticket sales for this in-person fundraiser. Tickets per person are $150 (early bird pricing before August 12).

Guests are invited to wear red, white, blue and cruise attire as they join this festive celebration in support of our veterans and first responders.

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Photo by Tony Lattimore

(L-R) Lisa Berman, Carol Lee, Michelle Highberg, Lena Milinovic and Kim Klohe came together during a past LLP fundraiser

There will be an outdoor cocktail hour with fun raffle items and some surprise entertainment, followed by a seated four-course dinner with a magic show during dessert featuring Magic Castle Magician John Guastaferro. Chris Amodeo and The Modern Minds will be playing tunes after dinner for dancing and camaraderie. Both performers were well received at the nonprofit’s first sold-out event earlier this year at The Ranch at Laguna Beach on March 27. 

Since its inception in September 2020, Lido Paddle Project has been serving veterans and first responders out of Newport Beach. The organization promotes mental wellness to our protectors by offering respite, recreation and mindfulness in an organically social distanced event, Stand Up Paddle. In addition to providing complimentary paddling and kayaking to clients and families, Lido Paddle Project has three levels of programming: PLAY, DEEPER and TRANSCEND to customize to each individual based upon their needs.

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Photo by Evelina Pentcheva

Chris Amodeo and The Modern Minds will provide lively 60s and 70s music following dinner 

To learn more about Lido Paddle Project and to purchase tickets for the upcoming fundraiser, visit www.lidopaddleproject.org. There are many ways for the community to get involved, as a guest, in-kind donor, underwriter, volunteer, or sponsor. For more information or business partnership opportunities, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The American Legion Yacht Club is located at 215 15th St., Newport Beach.

Kids…there is still lots of summertime left to enjoy Camp Newport

Kids…there’s still lots of summer left before school starts, so don’t miss your chance to enjoy the best of Newport Beach in one of the Camp Newport summer camps!

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Courtesy of the City of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Dept.

Bask in the sun while learning to surf, sail and play soccer, or cool off indoors with science, LEGOs, stop motion videos, or one of Camp Newport’s new Esports virtual camps. They’ve also added another week of Pateadores soccer and Beach Elite Volleyball to extend your summer fun through August.

Visit www.campnewport.com to register now.

Calling all student artists…

The Newport Beach City Arts Commission is presenting the Student Art Exhibition, a new month-long program celebrating the creativity and artistic expression of young artists that is open to all students in grades pre-K through 12. 

Applicants may submit one original work of art, two-dimensional format only, to be displayed on the second floor of the Central Library from August 2-28. The call for entries continues through August 21. There are no entry fees for participation. For entry guidelines and prize information, visit the Cultural Arts section of the City website at www.newportbeachca.gov/culturalarts. 

Courtesy of Newport Beach Arts Commission

The city’s Student Art Exhibition is open to all students in grades pre-K through 12

The Newport Beach City Arts Commission acts in an advisory capacity to the City Council on all matters pertaining to artistic, aesthetic and cultural aspects of the city. It recommends to the City Council the adoption of such ordinances, rules and regulations as it may deem necessary for the administration and preservation of fine arts, performing arts, historical, aesthetic and cultural aspects of the community. On behalf of the city, it actively encourages programs for the cultural enrichment of the community, including visual and performing arts activities as well as arts education programs.

More information about cultural arts programs in the City of Newport Beach can be found on the city’s Cultural Arts webpage by visiting www.newportbeachca.gov/culturalarts.

For A Good Cause

From Golf to Galas: Supporting Our Community

Celebration of Global Friendships – Mission Plasticos | Saturday, September 11 at 5 p.m. This red carpet affair features an evening of dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions and awards presentations. Jim Nye, “The Benefit Auction Guy,” will keep the live auction exciting. Enjoy live music by N’Demand. Event co-chairs are Matt Eberle and Caro Van Hove. Honorees include Global Humanitarian Dr. Hans Keirstead and Corporate Humanitarian Sientra. Tickets ranging from $500-$50,000 can be purchased at the website.

Contact: Susan Williamson, executive director, 714.769.9974 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. www.plastico.ejoinme.org.

Takes place at Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Highway, Newport Beach.

Mission: Since 1999, Mission Plasticos has transformed thousands of lives in the United States and worldwide with a mission to provide reconstructive plastic surgical training and care to those in need and generate sustainable outcomes through education and research.

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Courtesy of Childhelp

(L-R) John Westersten, Rick Reiff, Michael Danzi and Brian Bentson teed it up at the 2019 Childhelp Rich Saul Memorial Golf Classic

Childhelp Rich Saul Memorial Golf Classic | Thursday, September 23. This year marks the 39th year of the Orange County Childhelp Golf Classic, now known as the Rich Saul Memorial Golf Classic. The event continues in the spirit of the late NFL great Rich Saul, who was dedicated to changing the lives of abused and neglected children. The tournament, which is sold out, hosts a full day of golf, camaraderie, live and silent auctions and dinner at Pelican Hill Golf Club. NFL Rams legends and local business leaders participate in the day’s activities. Last year, although they couldn’t hold the event due to COVID restrictions, they still had benefactors who signed up to play golf and upon learning they weren’t able to play, many directed Childhelp to keep the golf entry fees and treat them as a donation to help children during the pandemic. They raised more than $342,000. This year, they would be so pleased to have any donations toward underwriting the event. If you would like to participate in this way, visit the website.

Contact: www.bidpal.net/childhelpocgolf2021.

Takes place at Pelican Hill Golf Club, 22800 S. Pelican Hill Road, Newport Coast.

Mission: Childhelp is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse. Founded in 1959 as International Orphans, Inc. by Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson, Childhelp is one of the largest nonprofit child abuse prevention and treatment organizations in the nation.

Big Brothers Big Sisters 57th Annual Gourmet Dinner | Thursday, September 30 at 5 p.m. Scotch. Cigars. Cars. Mark your calendars for a one-of-a-kind evening featuring premium food and beverage tastings, hand-rolled cigars, exciting auction experiences and a multi-course gourmet dinner under the stars. The event honors Patty Arvielo, recipient of the Joel K. Rubenstein Award. Tickets range from $15,000-$25,000.

Contact: Cherylee Shaar about this invitation-only event which you can donate to at 714.426.5642, or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. www.ocbigs.org/gourmetdinner.

Takes place at Newport Beach Country Club, One Clubhouse Drive, Newport Beach.

Mission: The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County & The Inland Empire is to deliver one-to-one mentoring to youth facing adversity through four program models. They provide the training, resources and support necessary for each match to succeed. Programs include Traditional Mentoring, Big Couples, High School Bigs and Workplace Mentoring.

Seneca Family of Agencies Forever Families Gala | Saturday, November 6 at 5 p.m. This 4th annual gala – An Evening in the Orange Grove – celebrates Seneca Family of Agencies’ foster care and permanency work in Southern California. Seneca’s programs work to build and sustain families for the children who need them, and to prevent disruption at all costs by providing critical mental health support. The evening honors Geoff Le Plastrier and Susan Laird with the Seneca Leadership Award, and Wylie and Bette Aiken with the Community Impact Award. Tickets ranging from $500-$50,000 can be purchased at https://aesbid.co/ELP/FF21/Tickets.

Takes place at the Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 W. Coast Highway, Newport Beach.

Contact: www.senecafoa.org.

Mission: The national average of adoptions remaining permanent is roughly 75 percent, which means 25 percent of children are returned to foster care due to a failed adoption. With Seneca’s commitment to unconditional care – doing whatever it takes to support the success of kids and families – 100 percent of their adoptions in Orange County remain permanent.

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Courtesy of scfta.org © RMA Photography Inc.

Segerstrom Hall

Segerstrom Center for the Arts Candlelight Concert | Friday, December 3 at 5 p.m. One of the most treasured and celebrated fundraising galas in Orange County, it brings together the luminaries of the community to raise critically needed funds for the arts. Through the magic of theater, Segerstrom Hall’s stage is transformed into a breathtaking ballroom, where guests dine and dance the night away. This historically sold-out event raises more than $2 million each year to support the Center’s artistic, education and community engagement programs. Britt Meyer will serve as the event chair.

Takes place at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts’ Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa.

Contact: www.scfta.org.

Mission: Segerstrom Center for the Arts believes in the power of performing arts to transform lives and that the shared experience and exploration of the arts will help unite Orange County, creating a more culturally connected and vital community. They will help shape the Orange County of the future through meaningful collaborations with diverse communities, embracing creativity in all its forms and enabling a more inclusive, vibrant performing arts scene at the Center and across the region.

Hoag Hospital Foundation’s 55th Annual Christmas Carol Ball | Saturday, December 11. Holiday cheer and good wishes converge this evening when Hoag Hospital Foundation along with event chairs Carolyn and Gary McKitterick welcome Hoag supporters, volunteers and friends. Since 1966 this festive gala has brought the community together in celebration, raising millions of dollars in support of Hoag.

Takes place at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point.

Contact: www.hoaghospitalfoundation.org.

Mission: Advancing the mission of Hoag through meaningful and inspirational philanthropic partnerships.

Editor’s Note: If you represent a philanthropic organization located in Newport Beach with an upcoming event, or know of a charitable organization choosing Newport Beach as its event venue, please email the information and a hi-res photo for consideration in our “For a Good Cause” calendar to help you publicize the event. Email pertinent information and images to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Police Beat Primer

Compiled by Tom Johnson 

Police Beat derives from information in the log maintained at the front counter by the Newport Beach Police Department and required under CA Government Code Section 6254 (f). The press does not have access to written police reports.

Information in the police department log is deemed reliable and StuNewsNewport is not responsible for mistakes made available as public record by the Newport Beach Police Department.

Any person arrested is innocent until found guilty in a court of law.

Abbreviations sometimes used in Police Beat:

647f – Public Intoxication; DUI – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; NFA – No fixed address; RP – Reporting/Responsible Party; UTL – Unable to locate