Fair Game
By TOM JOHNSON
Come Tuesday, masks may return back to mostly a Halloween staple
Next week comes June 15th. Hopefully, it’s the first official day Beyond the Blueprint for the COVID pandemic. Hip-hip-hooray. Some 16 1/2 months, who would’ve thought?
So what’s it all mean? Well, California is expected to fully reopen, and capacity and distancing restrictions will be lifted for most businesses and activities. Did you notice the word “most?”
It’s not as simple as “you’re all good,” and “no, you all aren’t good.” Even though we’re “Beyond the Guidelines,” there will still be guidelines. But my understanding is they will be recommendations, not requirements.
Here goes: If you’re fully vaccinated, or you can lie well, and believe me many will, no face masks will be needed in most settings.
Some of those still being places where we’ll see masks are at health care facilities, schools, aboard public transportation, to name a few. If you go to prison or become homeless, you’ll probably still need a mask. Good to know!
Unvaccinated people will still be asked to wear face coverings both indoors and outdoors any time physical distancing cannot be maintained, in addition to crowded outdoor events.
But again, unless you have a sign stapled to your forehead, who’s going to know?
And there are still some exemptions from wearing face coverings no matter what the requirement or recommendation is, including children younger than two, people with a medical condition that would preclude them from doing so, riding in your car alone (yes people, you can take that mask off!) and a couple of others.
In the workplace you won’t need a mask in your own closed office or room. That translates to, if you’re a big-wig, no mask, and if you’re a peon, take the face covering.
All joking aside, while I get that some people don’t want to get vaccinated, moving ahead it seems to be easier and SAFER for those that do, assuming people truly follow the rules.
My recommendation is, just get the shot!
• • •
We recently told you about the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and OC Parks’ efforts to change up some things without proper authorization from the California Coastal Commission at their Bayside location.
Well, not so fast.
The Coastal Commission Wednesday ordered that all boating amenities the Sheriff’s Department took away, or proposed to take away, will now have to be restored and they also have to add in 10 new visitor parking spaces to the 12 already existing spaces they were attempting to get relocated. That’s a net gain of 10 spaces.
Call it a slap on the hand, or a full-fledged spanking if you want to be honest.
The Coastal Commission also took great interest in a proposed ADA boating lift to assist disabled people in boarding boats. They’ll await a feasibility study before the next moves.
Currently, there are none in OC and only 3-4 in all of California, with several offering only private access, so this would be a big thing.
• • •
John Wortmann is the Chairman of the Board of Governors for the Balboa Bay Club and, I’m happy to say, a friend. He sent me a note the other day reminding me of the upcoming 14th Annual Father’s Day Car Show at the resort/club, et al.
It’ll take place at the upper resort parking deck on Sunday, June 20 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and is a great place to take dear ole’ dad on his day. In addition to a fabulous collection of cars, there will be music, food stations, cocktails, family fun and more.
The car show is complimentary, while the food stations and cocktails will accept cash or credit cards.
I’ve been…trust me, it’s good!
• • •
I saw this on the City’s website, and it made me excited that COVID is in the rearview mirror. Two Sunday Fourth of July events are officially on the calendar.
First up, the 48th Annual Mariners Park Independence Day Parade & Celebration on Mariners Drive. The parade is 10:30 a.m. and the celebration follows from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
And, on the Newport Peninsula will be the 10th Annual 4th of July is for Families bike parade and community festival. The parade starts at 9 a.m. and the community festival is from 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• • •
Ambassadors are in many ways a lifeblood of chambers of commerce, and Newport Beach is no different. These are volunteers who commit to being frontline faces for the chamber, supporting membership, their meetings, events and ribbon cuttings.
So when I heard that the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce had named their two Ambassadors of the Year, I thought it was a big deal and important to point them out and to thank them for their commitment to improving the health of Newport Beach’s business community.
The two recipients are Annette Malinowksi, CMO of de Castellan Creative, and Lori Morefield-Berg, a career and business consultant.
So why do they do it one might ask? Morefield-Berg said, “The Newport Chamber provides the perfect venue to give back and participate in promoting economic opportunity and is a welcoming business environment.”
Malinowski added, “Being a part of the Newport Beach Chamber and my engagement as an ambassador kept me grounded and focused, whereas I was able to get and provide information out to our clients and business owners.”
Congratulations to both.
Hopefully you can see that it’s a great way to get active in our chambers and, if you’re a member, a way to step up your membership to something more than just sending in an annual membership check.
Restaurant BID headed toward limbo after two tied council votes
By SARA HALL
In two split votes, both that failed to find a majority, a local restaurant association won’t officially break up but also wasn’t awarded any extra time to restructure, and, as a result, is headed toward limbo.
City Council twice voted 3-3 on Tuesday, June 8, in two opposing motions regarding the Newport Beach Restaurant Association Business Improvement District.
The first motion, made by Councilmember Diane Dixon, was to bring back the previously rejected renewal item of the Restaurant Association BID.
Dixon recommended retaining the BID for one year, to expire June 30, 2022. It would allow the NBRA to reformulate its structure and still collect member dues. Her suggestion was essentially the renewal item that was on the council’s May 11 agenda (which failed 4-2 at the time) and would have needed to come back as a separate item on a future agenda. Mayor Brad Avery and Councilmember Joy Brenner supported the motion.
On the original May 11 vote, only Dixon and Brenner supported the renewal.
The second motion, made by Councilmember Will O’Neill, asked to approve a resolution of intention to disestablish the Restaurant Association BID. Mayor Pro Tem Kevin Muldoon and Councilmember Marshall “Duffy” Duffield supported the second motion.
Councilmember Noah Blom recused himself from the entire discussion and votes due to a business interest, as he owns a local restaurant.
Because neither motion garnered a majority of support and ended in ties, both motions failed.
As a result, the Restaurant Association BID will essentially be in limbo at the end of the month.
The term of the current BID board members will end on June 30. Board members need to be appointed during a council meeting, but the item will not be able to return to council for action before board members’ terms end, so there will be an unavoidable inactive period of time for the BID.
The BID will still exist as an entity, but without any board members, no future actions can be taken by the BID after June 30, City Attorney Aaron Harp confirmed in an email with Stu News Newport on Thursday.
In the future, Harp explained, the City Council could (1) appoint a new BID board, approve a new workplan and authorize assessments; or (2) disestablish the BID.
A council member has to request for either of the options noted to be placed on a future agenda. That request would need at least three members of the City Council who want to examine the issue, which would then direct staff to prepare an appropriate report and return the item to the City Council for discussion and/or action.
The process for renewing the BID takes a few council meetings (including the initial request for it to be placed on a future agenda) and a public hearing prior to the renewal.
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Courtesy of Dine Newport Beach
The Restaurant Association BID is responsible for Dine Newport Beach’s marketing efforts
At Tuesday’s meeting, Dixon was the most vocal supporter of giving the BID a year to work things out.
“It seems punitive, it seems unnecessary, it seems cruel,” Dixon said.
It’s being “thrown on top” of everything else restaurant owners are dealing with coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, she said. As business has been slow with a drastically reduced number of customers, they need to be allowed to scale up their marketing efforts, she said.
Brenner agreed, saying they haven’t adequately looked into the potential ramifications of dissolving the Restaurant BID.
“I’m not saying I’d like for them to continue indefinitely at the current structure, but I don’t think it would hurt us in any way to allow them a year to work the process of disbanding and keep their activities where they are, which is what the public has come to expect,” Brenner said.
The Corona del Mar BID had about a year knowing the “writing was on the wall,” Brenner said, referencing another group that council voted to dissolve on Tuesday.
“I don’t feel like the Restaurant BID had that same benefit,” Brenner said, noting that she attended the CdM BID meetings, but no council member has been attending the Restaurant BID meetings.
Timing is an issue, she said; they shouldn’t be pushing this difficult transition onto the restaurants while they are still recovering from the pandemic.
“I only think that we need to give them more time because of the circumstances…instead of putting the axe down right now at the end of COVID when they’re dealing with so much,” she said.
Voting against this is neither punitive nor cruel, O’Neill said, and it’s “obscene” to make such an accusation.
He’s been referencing this for at least three years and has voted against the BID renewal in the past, he added. He’s done so for a variety of reasons, all centered around the issue that it’s a government program based on bad policy, O’Neill said.
“It is simply a discussion of public policy,” he said.
There have been discussions at the Restaurant BID about transitioning over to an updated BID structure based on a 1994 law, O’Neill said, but they decided against it, likely because it’s a difficult transition.
During those meetings and discussions, there was confusion over the legal information on the transition, Dixon replied, particularly about using the existing funds and the path forward. Then COVID hit and it all came to a screeching halt, she said.
“They had their livelihood to attend to,” during the past year, so discussion about the transition was put on hold, Dixon said.
Taking away the structural framework that the Restaurant BID offers to help promote their business is cruel to do right now, Dixon reiterated.
It is now known that there is a path forward, to be able to form a new, separate (1994 structured) BID. It would take about $40,000 to do so and funds from the existing BID could not be used. One of the discussion points was that the city could potentially loan the new BID $40,000 to get established, although that has not been considered by the council.
They previously believed that they could not move forward to a 94 BID, said Phil Crowley, owner of Modo Mio in Crystal Cove and current BID treasurer.
“It is my impression that we have now found a path forward and one that is viable, one that can work,” he said.
The board and others involved are committed to moving forward with that as quickly as possible, Crowley said. It’s been a great partnership for many years and has resulted in a lot of great community involvement and events, he said. Responding to the council comments that the restaurants are forced to pay fees, Crowley said it’s been voluntary as long as he can remember.
“There’s been no attempt that I’m aware of, to collect from anybody that either can’t or doesn’t want to pay,” Crowley said.
Although it can appear mandatory, some on the dais noted.
The BID requires the city to administer the process, even if it’s not mandatory, suggesting that it’s mandated and collected even in tough times, Muldoon said.
“(It) does not mean that the Restaurant Association can’t have the name, can’t continue to exist, can’t work together,” he said.
They have the ability to continue to operate on their own, Muldoon said.
“It’s not the death of any specific activity or organization, if they don’t want it to be,” Muldoon said. “It just means the city is no longer going to be administrating it under a dated legal construct.”
Those activities and events are all encouraged, he added, it just has to do with government involvement.
“One could argue it’s actually very cruel to make restaurants believe they have to pay when they get that bill and have to spend money to join this organization that they may or may not want to be a part of,” Muldoon said.
It’s not voluntary, O’Neill agreed. It’s a government program that people pay into, with bills sent on paper with the city logo, he said. If it were truly voluntary it would be a merchant association, O’Neill said.
However the council wants the group to exist, they pledge it will happen within the next year, said Senior Vice President of Newport Beach & Co. Doug McClain, whose team directly oversees and manages the Restaurant Association.
“We feel that the Restaurant Association is essential to this destination,” McClain said. “So however it exists in the future, we will pledge that that organization will exist and thrive and move forward.”
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Submitted photo
The Bungalow Restaurant in Corona del Mar
The allegation that the BID forces people to pay is incorrect, said Jim Walker, owner of The Bungalow Restaurant and former Restaurant Association president and longtime member.
People can opt out if they want. The people that don’t join still benefit from the group’s work and marketing efforts, he added.
“We’re a rising tide to this community, we raise all boats,” Walker said.
He hasn’t heard criticism about paying the dues to be part of the organization.
“I wonder, after 20 years of being a part of this organization, where’s the backlash? Where’s the unhappiness, besides with this city council?” Walker questioned.
For at least two decades they’ve had the guidance, support and funding needed to exist, he said. They are being penalized for following the rules and working as directed.
“This is the first time in 20 years where we’ve faced being erased,” Walker said. “It is cruel and it is unfair because we’ve been blindsided.”
As they understood it, they could not transition to a 94 BID. If there was a known better way, they would do it, he said.
Walker urged the council to pause and give the group a chance to make the transition over the next year. Right now is the toughest time he and many other restaurant owners have ever been through in this industry, Walker said.
“I’m asking you from my heart, just put the brakes on and allow us to make this change with the structure we have created over 20 years,” Walker said. “We’re willing to do what’s necessary…Instead of killing us, why don’t you join us?”
Take Five: Meet Racquel Valdez, Newport Beach Recreation Manager
By AMY SENK
Let’s face it – last summer was a bummer. But this year, we’re moving fast toward normal, including considering summer camps and Newport Beach recreation opportunities. I’d heard about the Marina Park sailing program, and when I reached out to the city’s recreation director for information, she said I needed to talk to Recreation Manager Racquel Valdez, the “Queen of Camps.” Here’s what I learned.
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Courtesy of Racquel Valdez
Racquel Valdez
Q: The Marina Park sailing program has recently partnered with Orange Coast College. Can you tell me more about how that started, and what it means to city residents who want to learn to sail?
A: The City of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Department has recently taken over the administration and operations of the boating and sailing program at Marina Park. The OCC School of Sailing & Seamanship will provide instruction for the city’s sailing classes and summer camps. The city provides a wide variety of sailing classes that appeal to all ages and levels of ability. Some classes are structured with the instructor onboard to provide an additional comfort level for the uncertain beginner. Private lessons are also available, and the “Parent and Me” class is one of the most popular options. OCC brings instrumental knowledge and expertise to the sailing program. We are looking forward to a great partnership in offering unique opportunities to the community.
Q: What do you wish more people knew about the Marina Park programs?
A: I think what a lot of people don’t know is our Sailing & Boating program is open to the public, with walk-in stand-up paddle rentals, as well as single and double kayak rentals. For the person who likes to paddle frequently but doesn’t want the hassle of owning, launching and maintaining their own equipment, the city has a Paddle Pass program with reduced pricing for paddling. The best part of learning to sail at Marina Park is that the adventure doesn’t end after your classes. Marina Park rents its sailboats through its Sail Pass program. There is a process to renting the sailboats. You must be an experienced sailor and register to take a written test and an on-the-water test with an instructor. Once a sailor has passed those tests, they are welcome to rent the city sailboats. Renters in the Sail Pass program can use the boats by the hour, for a small fee, or pay for an annual pass, which is only $600. Sail Pass sailors are also welcome to bring family and friends to sail with them.
Q: I’ve heard you described as the Queen of Camps – can you tell me about the other camps and activities that Newport Beach kids can choose this summer?
A: This year is all about Finding your Fun in 2021. In addition to our returning favorites – surf camps – we have a great lineup of camps to choose from. California Bodyboarding Beach camp is a great new camp where campers will have a blast boogie boarding along Corona del Mar beach. Skyhawks will be offering a variety of fun awesome sport camps, which include pickleball, lacrosse, tennis and basketball. For a fun education option, Bionerds provides amazing STEM-based camps, such as Food Science: Your Food is Alive! Learn the science of food, sugar and nutrition. Your child will be up close with live fresh food and engage in cool biology activities. Art Camp with Lisa Albert is a great way for artists to spend the theme-based week exploring paints, pastels, watercolor, clay and metal embossing. There are so many fantastic options for kids this summer. I look forward to the summer months knowing the splendid programs our team puts together with Camp Newport. For a closer look at all of the camps, visit www.campnewport.com.
Q: What are the hidden gems – your favorite programs that you wish more people knew about?
A: Newport Beach residents can explore the trail system in the Buck Gully Reserve and enjoy native habitat and species in the natural coastal canyon. Through its partnership with the city, the Irvine Ranch Conservancy leads free guided hikes and provides an in-depth exploration of all that the reserve has to offer. Registration is required and available online at www.letsgooutside.org. Another summer favorite is back this year – Movies in the Park. Movies in the Park is a family-friendly summertime event that provides a series of movies outdoors at our parks. For more information, visit www.newportbeachca.gov/recreation.
Q: What is your favorite recreational activity in the city and how do you like to spend your free time?
A: Stand Up paddle boarding in the beautiful harbor is a favorite stress-free activity and it qualifies as my exercise too. I have two energetic boys ages 6 and 9 who keep me active in my free time. We are a sports-loving family – Go Dodgers! It is fun to watch them play sports and see them have the same experiences I did as a kid. When we aren’t at the field you will find us camping. My husband and I enjoy our adventures together as a family, exploring and creating memories in the great outdoors.
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Amy Senk is a longtime resident of Corona del Mar and a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.
Beeks host party on the ferry for Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach members
Guests boarded the Balboa Island Ferry for a unique experience as they toured Newport Harbor. Many thanks to Seymour Beek and David Beek, who graciously hosted an unforgettable event for 60 Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach members, who enjoyed food provided by Mr. G as the ferry wound its way up and down the bay.
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Photos courtesy of Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach
(L-R) Donna Sebring, Shirley Pepys, Walter Sebring and Renee Pepys Lowe
Longtime resident Tim Mang was among the guests and narrated the tour, sharing memories of when Newport Harbor was the go-to place for Hollywood stars.
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Cynthia Shafer and Giuseppe “Chef Mr. G” Accardi
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(L-R) Mitzi Barrett, Phil Barrett and Paula Castanon
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(L-R) Karen Johnston, Janet Ray, Walkie Ray and Keith Curry
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(L-R) Seymour Beek and Noel Pepys
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Matt Leonetti and Shirley Pepys
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Jim Moloney and Erin Walsh
You Must Remember This: Pasture vs. Stables
By NANCY GARDNER
When I was growing up, there were two riding establishments in Corona del Mar, both of which I experienced. The first was the Stables where Irvine Terrace is. That’s where I learned to ride, and I was there for quite a few years until my horse died and I stopped riding for a period. The second is where Crystal Cove State Park is, the Pasture, which a couple of us “started” and where I rode for the rest of my career. There was a coming together of the two a few years after the inception of the Pasture.
We were invited to a “friendly” at the Stables. We rode through CdM that morning – difficult to imagine today – and it wasn’t hard to tell which group was which when we arrived. The Stables group had jodhpur pants, riding boots and thoroughbred horses with shining saddles. The Pasture group didn’t, simple as that. The term “motley crew” was invented for us. However, it’s not always about looks. The first event was a jumping competition. The Stables’ jumping course was a “links” course, a path cut through the sagebrush with no attempt to flatten the natural undulation of the terrain, with jumps strategically located along the way. Because of the dips, the vegetation and the length of the course, it was impossible to see much except for the first jump and the last gallop in. Representing the Stables was a young woman in the Stables uniform with the appropriate thoroughbred mount. The Pasture’s entrant was Helen Matthews. Helen wore jeans, a plaid shirt, high-top tennies (anticipating grunge by decades), was bareback, and her horse was at least a hand shorter than the other and no thoroughbred.
The Stables led off. Horse and rider cantered away, cleared the first jump nicely and were soon out of sight. Minutes passed, and then they came back into view, practically staggering through the last yards. Obviously, a difficult course. Matthews’ turn. Off she went on her little horse, again minutes passed, but fewer. She had gone around the course in a better time, and when she and her horse reappeared, they looked like they’d been out for pleasant walk. The difference in the way the two riders and horses handled the course was remarkable, and at least part of it can be attributed to the way the two groups rode.
The Stables, under the rule of Mr. Harris, had buildings – barns and cottages as well as corrals – and all of this, as well as his manner of running things, instilled a certain propriety. Riding, for example, was primarily in the ring, often for a lesson, sometimes on your own to work on something. The main exception to that was the Sunday ride when Mr. Harris would take a group of riders usually into the hills, occasionally to swim the horses, but in either case propriety still reigned. On the rides, when Mr. Harris determined it was time to canter, everyone cantered. When he walked his horse, everyone walked theirs. There were no outliers, no mavericks – a well-disciplined group. Even the swimming had an element of decorum: The horses were saddled. That meant once back at the stables, riders used a lot of saddle soap to clean the salt water off.
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Courtesy of Nancy Gardner
The Pasture in all of its natural beauty attracted young riders
Unlike the Stables, the Pasture had no structures for many years and not much in the way of decorum. We rarely used saddles, we rode all over the place whenever and however we wanted – in the hills, on the beach, back and forth across the pasture from CdM to Crystal Cove. We were always on the go, and that kind of activity undoubtedly made us a pretty fit group, as Matthews showed.
That Matthews was the star of that day was no surprise to us, since she was our leader. She and her brother Peter were the first to come to the Pasture after the original three, but that wasn’t why she held her position of leadership, nor was it because of seniority, since we were all about the same age. It certainly wasn’t because of any desire to assert herself. No one could have been quieter, even self-effacing. It wasn’t even that there was a player piano in her family’s front room which had all of us singing along boisterously. We just all tacitly agreed that she was a superior human being and trooped after her.
She and her family moved to Fallbrook a couple of years after that, and we lost touch, presumably forever, and then one day I was walking across the UCLA campus, and there was Matthews sitting on the grass, immersed in a textbook. I was excited to see her again and immediately asked what was going on. A brief conversation established that she worked nights at the phone company while she studied pre-med, and somehow it didn’t seem appropriate to volunteer that I was an English major with a minor in surfing, or maybe vice versa, and that I had no job because my parents were footing the bill. I was old enough by that time to realize life wasn’t always fair, that people grew up in places like Pacoima which undoubtedly made things more difficult, but that someone like Matthews who had not only grown up in Corona del Mar but had been our leader and star of the “friendly” – that such a person should have not just a different path to tread but one so much more difficult; I felt very awkward and scooted off after a few pleasantries. I never saw Matthews again, so I don’t know if there’s a Dr. Matthews out there, but I hope so.
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Nancy Gardner, former Mayor of Newport Beach, longtime resident and daughter of Judge Robert Gardner, is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.
“Newport Beach in the Rearview Mirror” –The Ferry Godfather by Bill Lobdell
Bill Lobdell, former Daily Pilot editor and Los Angeles Times journalist, has a podcast called “Newport Beach in the Rearview Mirror,” which looks at historical events and people – famous and forgotten – that shaped Newport Beach. You can listen and subscribe to the podcast at www.newportbeach-podcast.com. You can also follow “Newport Beach in the Rearview Mirror” on Instagram (@newport_in_the_rearview_mirror).
In his most recent podcast, Lobdell shares “The Ferry Godfather: The Legend of Joe Beek and the Balboa Island Ferry.”
Here’s a preview of his latest episode, which began as just a fun look at the Balboa Island Ferry.
According to Lobdell, “I thought I’d throw in a little background on Joe Beek, the ferry’s first legit operator who ran it for a half century before his son, Seymour, took over. I mostly knew that Joe Beek was known as the Father of Balboa Island and the beloved operator of the ferry.
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Courtesy of the Beek family
Joe Beek
“But then I began researching Joe Beek (born in 1880), and I stumbled upon one great story after another. Here’s a sampling (and it’s only a sampling).
“When he was all of 13, Joe became the primary breadwinner for his family. Because of that, he started high school at 27. In 1907, he fell in love with Balboa Island long before almost anyone else. He fibbed in order to get a job with the developer of Balboa Island.
“There’s more: He was Newport’s first harbormaster, served on the city library’s first Board of Trustees and forged his birth certificate to join the military in 1941 after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. At age 61! Oh, and he served a record 49 years as secretary of the California Senate.
“Let me give you one more detail that I love. To deepen the water depth at the ferry landings, Joe would wade out into Newport Harbor at low tide, drag a steel tub along the bay bottom and his wife Carol (using a pulley and winch) would reel it to shore. Okay, last detail. He built the ferries himself. He was the ultimate DIYer.”
Sidenote: “I really believe the city should commission a life-sized bronze statue of Joe Beek and place it at the ferry landing on Balboa Island. It would be a fitting tribute to Joe and an excellent reminder of the impact one person can have on the city.”
All these stories about Joe Beek and a whole lot more can be found in “The Ferry Godfather” episode now available at www.newportbeach-podcast.com, or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where you can subscribe and not miss an episode.
Editor’s Note: Stay tuned for connecting to Bill Lobdell’s future podcasts in Stu News.
As the pandemic winds down, City Council proudly serves up balanced budget
The City Council last Tuesday, on June 8, approved a balanced, $309.1 million operating budget for the 2021-22 fiscal year that restores cutbacks made in the prior fiscal year due to anticipated COVID-19 revenue losses.
Newport Beach has seen continued strength in its property tax revenues, and faster-than-expected growth in sales tax and transient occupancy tax revenues as travel and consumer spending begins to recover. While the city’s overall revenues have not returned to the pre-pandemic trend, they are on a strong trajectory to recover in the year ahead. As a result, the city has balanced its budget and will contribute to reserves, pay down unfunded pension liabilities and restore neighborhood improvement projects that were delayed because of COVID-19.
The capital improvement budget calls for $74.8 million in new spending for fiscal year 2021-22, with capital spending of $195.9 million proposed over the next six years. Capital projects include street and roadway construction and maintenance, bay and beach improvements, storm drains, parks, municipal facilities, water and wastewater projects and more.
The city is taking a cautious approach to budgeting as the pace of pandemic recovery is still uncertain. While the budget includes funding for projects related to homelessness and state-mandated programs such as organics recycling, it limits workforce growth, adding only two new full-time positions to bring the city’s full-time workforce to 730.
The city’s fiscally conservative budgeting in prior years – building reserves, managing debt, decreasing city pension costs and more – helped Newport Beach weather the pandemic and set the stage for a stronger recovery, according to officials. Also, in the early stages of the pandemic, the city instituted a hiring freeze for non-safety positions, cut department spending and delayed capital projects that were not immediately essential to the continued operations of the city.
Overall, the city’s finances are on solid footing after a highly uncertain year, said Councilman Will O’Neill, who chairs the city’s Finance Committee.
“Despite the extraordinary setbacks experienced in 2020, our city’s government ensured that services people expected remained in our budget,” O’Neill said. “Not all cities can say the same. This budget continues to provide a high level of services to our residents and lays a foundation that will facilitate a great city for our children and grandchildren.”
Highlights of the FY 2021-22 budget include:
–Restores $15.4 million that had been cut from facilities, harbor capital projects and neighborhood enhancement projects in the previous fiscal year.
–Maintains a strong budget reserve of $55.3 million, about 25 percent of the city’s general fund operating budget.
–Continues to reduce unfunded pension liabilities through additional discretionary payments to the CalPERS retirement system.
–Supports additional beach cleanup efforts put in place during COVID-19 and the Boardwalk Ambassador program.
–Provides funding for Newport Beach’s continued partnership in the new Costa Mesa homeless shelter, and $1 million toward a permanent supportive housing project in Newport Beach.
The budget will be reviewed by the City Council after the first quarter of the new fiscal year.
For more information on the city budget, visit www.newportbeachca.gov/government/departments/finance/city-budget-salary.
Supervisor Foley to honor 5,000 OC COVID deaths tonight with candlelight memorial
Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley will hold a COVID-19 memorial tonight, June 11, at the lake behind the Avenue of the Arts Hotel in Costa Mesa.
The candlelight memorial, beginning at 7:30 p.m., will honor the more than 5,000 lives lost to COVID-19 in Orange County.
“We will be joined by local elected officials, community leaders, frontline workers and residents from across Orange County’s Second District, to honor and recognize the more than 5,000 lives we’ve lost in the pandemic,” said Supervisor Foley.
“Please bring a flower or a photo of your loved one for the memorial. It is my hope that this evening will give us the opportunity to come together to mourn, reflect and find strength in each other.”
Avenue of the Arts Hotel is located at 3350 Avenue of the Arts in Costa Mesa.
Foley’s Second District represents Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Cypress, Huntington Beach, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Stanton, the unincorporated area of Rossmoor, and portions of Buena Park and Fountain Valley.
It’s time for the community to vote for this year’s Christmas Boat Parade theme
The official 113th Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade returns December 15-19, 2021. The parade is organized by the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the Commodores Club of Newport Beach.
The community was recently asked to submit theme ideas for the parade and, as you might imagine, nearly 100 entries were received. They were narrowed down to the top three and now it’s back to the community-at-large to vote for their favorite.
The three are “Jingle On The Waves,” “‘Tis the Sea-son to Sail-Abrate” and “Santa’s Sensational Sail-Abration.”
Cast your votes now through Monday, June 21 at 5 p.m. here.
The Presenting Sponsors of the official parade are Simple Green and Davey’s Locker, with Visit Newport Beach and the City of Newport Beach as the Community Sponsors.
Wednesday night delight
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Photo by Stacia Stabler
Reflecting on another spectacular night in Newport Beach
UCI Health new world-class hospital is the topic at chamber’s Government Affairs Committee
UCI Health has announced plans to build a world-class, acute care hospital on the northern edge of the University of California, Irvine campus.
Chad Lefteris, FACHE, the CEO of UCI Health, will be the guest speaker at the next virtual Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce’s Government Affairs Committee on Thursday, June 17 from 8-9:15 a.m.
The Government Affairs Committee meeting regularly highlights local political and legislative issues impacting business and the community as a whole.
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Photos courtesy of NBCC
Chad Lefteris, FACHE, CEO of UCI Health
Lefteris will discuss the 144-bed hospital that will join the previously approved UCI Health Center for Advanced Care to create the new UCI Medical Center Irvine-Newport. The facility will be a full-service academic health complex that will bring a broad spectrum of the most advanced healthcare services to coastal and southern Orange County, including access to the hundreds of clinical trials underway at UCI Health.
The medical center will connect with the UCI Health primary care network throughout Orange County, including its newest clinic in Newport Beach, creating the region’s only health system supported by one of the nation’s premier academic research institutions.
The hospital, set for completion in 2025, will focus on key clinical programs such as oncology, neurology, neurosurgery, orthopedics and digestive health and will include a 24-hour emergency department.
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Rendering of the UCI Health acute care hospital planned for 2025 completion
Costs for the complete project are expected to exceed $1 billion, funded by philanthropic donations, retained earnings and revenue from UCI Health operations. The project already has received philanthropic funding and will continue to seek further investment from community partners.
Lefteris oversees Orange County’s only academic medical center and all clinical and patient-serving operations, including the UCI Medical Center in Orange and ambulatory sites across the county. Lefteris joined UCI Health in December 2018 as the chief operating officer.
In that role, Lefteris oversaw the daily business operations of the UCI Medical Center, which includes the hospital and several specialty units, along with other UCI-operated health care centers throughout Orange County. He was also responsible for administrative functions, including general and ancillary support services, facilities management, design and construction, information technology and special projects.
To register to attend the meeting go here.
Newport Beach Film Festival returns in October
The 22nd Annual Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) has announced its return with a live festival on Thursday, Oct. 21 through Thursday, Oct. 28. The annual event will return in full force with a series of world premieres, afterparties, filmmaker Q&As and other special events throughout its eight-day run. The festival will open on October 21 with a red carpet premiere screening followed by an outdoor gala with world-class entertainment, a hosted bar by Tito’s Vodka and culinary tastings from Orange County’s premier restaurants.
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Courtesy of NBFF
Newport Beach Film Festival returns October 21-28
The centerpiece of the 22nd Annual Festival will include Newport Beach Film Festival Honors featuring Variety’s 10 Actors To Watch. Previous honoree recipients include Cynthia Erivo, Gemma Chan, Glen Powell, Maya Hawke, Noah Jupe and Henry Golding.
“The Newport Beach Film Festival is extremely proud and excited to bring moviegoing back to Southern California. We look forward to screening incredible films and hosting amazing events this fall,” said Gregg Schwenk, CEO and co-founder of the Newport Beach Film Festival.
The Newport Beach Film Festival is sponsored in part by UCI Health, Morgan Stanley, Tito’s Vodka, Fashion Island, Visit Newport Beach and the City of Newport Beach.
Passes and tickets for film screenings, galas and special events go on sale October 1. To purchase tickets and for more information about the Newport Beach Film Festival, visit www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com.
Summertime is reading time at the Newport Beach Public Library
The Summer Reading Program at the Newport Beach Public Library (NBPL) kicks off on Saturday, June 12 and runs through Saturday, July 31. This year’s theme is “Reading Colors Your World” with programs tailored for kids, teens and adults.
So why summer reading? For kids, it helps to prevent summer slide – the loss of academic skills over the course of summer vacation. For teens, it’s an opportunity to get ahead on high school reading, as well as escape to a world of mystery, suspense and adventure. And for adults, it provides an ideal reason to catch up on the reading they’ve been hoping to get to all year long.
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Courtesy of NBPL
This summer’s theme is “Reading Colors Your World” with library programs tailored for kids, teens and adults
“The Summer Reading Program is a great excuse to read, read and read,” according to Debbie Walker, youth services coordinator. “Great for all ages, it’s simply fun and smart.”
New to the Summer Reading Program for 2021 is Beanstack, the library’s online reading tracker. Beanstack allows patrons to track their minutes and activities, see upcoming events and receive weekly, personalized book recommendations. Go to http://newportbeachlibrary.beanstack.com/ to download the Beanstack Tracker app.
Sign-ups for summer reading are on the library’s website at www.newportbeachlibrary.org. Funding for the Summer Reading Program is generously donated by the Friends of the Library.
Local authors pen Lizzie’s Scary Adventure
Looking for a fun summer read you can be sure your kids will love? Husband and wife Robert and Caroline Patterson have just written their first children’s book, titled Lizzie’s Scary Adventure.
This literary duo is definitely “young at heart,” as Bob at the age of 91 decided he wanted to write a children’s book about a lizard that entered their home, so he collaborated with Caroline and penned Lizzie’s Scary Adventure.
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“Lizzie’s Scary Adventure,” geared to 3- to 10-year-olds, is available on Amazon
This true story is told through the eyes of the lizard and her adventures in the Pattersons’ house. Lizzie and her brother George play hide and seek, and Lizzie is obsessed with getting in “the big house” to hide from George as she thinks he will never find her in there. The story unfolds as Lizzie encounters her adventures in the large abode.
Residents of Newport Beach for more than a half century, the Pattersons were both educators (teachers/principals) in Orange County for a total of 72 years. They have been active in the community: Bob serving on the Homeowners Association Board for Harbor View Hills South, both were members of the Balboa Tennis Club, Caroline served in the Boys and Girls Club in Garden Grove and now they are both members of the OASIS Senior Center.
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Courtesy of the Pattersons
Bob and Caroline Patterson
Together they have read to school districts via Zoom, and look forward to holding book signings in the near future as well as storytelling at Newport Beach Public Library.
Geared to ages 3-10, Lizzie’s Scary Adventure is available on Amazon at this link.
School Notes
Library offering virtual ACT and SAT practice testing
The Newport Beach Public Library (NBPL) will offer a series of SAT and ACT prep tests and practice tests.
On Saturday, June 26 from 10-11 a.m., Josefine Borrmann, founder of Strive to Learn, will share thoughts on what test is better to take, as well as some of the best advice that she’s acquired while helping hundreds of students achieve the results they desire.
Then, on Wednesday, June 30 from 8-11:30 a.m., the NBPL will offer a practice ACT test, followed by an SAT practice test on Saturday, July 10 from 8-11:30 a.m.
All tests will be presented virtually.
To register for the Test Prep Webinar go here. Click on ACT Practice Test or SAT Practice Test to register.
School website offered for tips to family wellness
The Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) is offering a Parent Education website that features a series of recordings to enhance local students and their family’s wellness.
Topics include a natural approach to treating anxiety, nutrition and cooking for families, physical health activities and more.
Tsubota earns B.S. from Georgia Tech
Tamara Tsubota, of Newport Coast, has earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Highest Honors from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta.
Tsubota was among approximately 4,435 undergraduate and graduate students who earned their degrees during the Spring 2021 semester and were recognized during the Institute’s 260th Commencement exercises May 7-8, 2021, at Bobby Dodd Stadium.
The Georgia Institute of Technology, or Georgia Tech, is a top 10 public research university developing leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition.
The Institute offers business, computing, design, engineering, liberal arts and sciences degrees. Its nearly 40,000 students, representing 50 states and 149 countries, study at the main campus in Atlanta, at campuses in France and China, and through distance and online learning.
As a leading technological university, Georgia Tech is an engine of economic development for Georgia, the Southeast and the nation, conducting more than $1 billion in research annually for government, industry and society.
For more information, visit www.gatech.edu.
Ewing earns honors at Samford University
Katie Ewing, of Newport Beach, was among the 1,703 students named to Samford University’s 2021 Spring semester Dean’s List.
To qualify for the Dean’s List, a student must have earned a minimum 3.5 grade point average out of a possible 4.0 while attempting at least 12 credit hours of coursework. Dean’s List is the highest academic recognition given by the school at the end of each semester.
Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States.
The Wall Street Journal ranks Samford 2nd nationally for student engagement and U.S. News & World Report ranks Samford 86th nationally for best value. Samford enrolls 5,729 students from 47 states and 30 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health.
“Jazz on the Bay” and Champagne brunch at Bayside Restaurant benefits JDRF OC
Bayside Restaurant presents its next in the “Jazz on the Bay” series + Saturday Brunch, featuring vocalist Luke Carlsen, on June 12 at 11:30 a.m. This benefits the Juvenile Diabetes Research Assn. in Orange County (JDRF OC). JDRF works tirelessly to fund research to battle type 1 diabetes.
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Submitted photo
Vocalist Luke Carlsen
Always a fan of the classic crooners like Nat King Cole, Harry Connick Jr. and Dean Martin, Carlsen was lucky enough to have a voice to match his passion for music. His baritone voice with rich lows and tender highs lends itself to his modern renditions of classic jazz tunes, and his shows are always high-flying fun. Carlsen’s new EP, My Love, was just released this year, and you can check it out on your favorite streaming services.
Of course, Dining is Art at Bayside, and the menu is no different, with favorites like griddle crab cake Florentine, a slow-roasted short rib hash, Canadian Benedict and seared salmon, along with all-you-can-drink Champagne.
Tickets range from $55-$70 with a portion of the proceeds going to JDRF Southern California ($30 food and beverage minimum per person). Tickets and menu information are available at www.JazzAtBayside.com.
Cliffs of CdM
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Photo by Stacia Stabler
Soaking in the spectacular views in Corona del Mar on Wednesday…on the right side of the fence!
Baroque Music Festival presents “A Bach Keyboard Extravaganza” with Matthew Dirst
The Baroque Music Festival (BMF), Corona del Mar, is collaborating with Ars Lyrica Houston (co-producer) and San Francisco Early Music Society (co-presenter) to present a new immersive virtual concert film, “A Bach Keyboard Extravaganza,” to the widest audience.
Now in its 41st year, the Baroque Music Festival is delighted to present this special summer concert that will receive its premiere streaming within the organization’s typical yearly festival week. The performance explores and celebrates the music of J.S. Bach for harpsichord and organ, alongside that of Bach’s key contemporaries.
According to acclaimed American harpsichordist and organist Matthew Dirst, Ars Lyrica Houston’s artistic director, who makes his Baroque Music Festival debut with this release, “I’m delighted to be sharing some of my favorite harpsichord and organ pieces with a virtual audience, thanks to an invitation from the Baroque Music Festival of Corona del Mar.”
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Courtesy of Baroque Music Festival
Matthew Dirst, harpsichordist and organist
Specially filmed for this presentation, the performances and commentary were captured in May 2021 at the Rienzi wing (Decorative Arts) of the Houston Museum of Fine Art and at St. Philip Presbyterian Church, Houston, where Dirst is music director. After a brief introduction to Dirst by the BMF’s artistic director Elizabeth Blumenstock, the performances will be interspersed with lively commentary on the composers, pieces, locations and instruments – including the wonderful 2020 “Gräbner” harpsichord by John Phillips (Berkeley, Calif.) complete with rich decoration by Janine Johnson. This collaborative creative project was made possible by a cultural arts grant from the City of Newport Beach.
Viewers can enjoy this YouTube premiere on Thursday, June 24 at 7 p.m. and are encouraged to subscribe to the Festival’s YouTube channel at http://bit.ly/YouTubeBMFCdM, followed by a Zoom Q&A social hour on Thursday, June 24 at 8 p.m. Streaming is free to view as is participation in the Zoom after-party with the musicians.
Donations are welcome at https://bmf-cdm.org/.
The YouTube watch page and after-party Zoom link will be circulated in the Baroque Music Festival e-newsletter a few days ahead of the premiere streaming. Concert viewers may join the email list to receive the links at http://bit.ly/BMFmailinglist.
58th Annual Packards International Meet comes to the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
The Packards International Motor Car Club is holding its 58th Annual Packards International Meet on Saturday, June 26 from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach.
Spectators will revel in 30-40 Concours d’Elegance quality automobiles ranging from the 1920s through the 1950s.
Packard was an American luxury automobile built by the Packard Motor Car Company in Detroit from 1899-1956. For those not familiar with Packards, it’s simple: “Ask the man who owns one.”
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Courtesy of Packards International Motor Car Club
1941 Packard Convertible
The event is free and open to the public, and includes an all-Packard car show and parts exchange.
Packards International Motor Car Club is a nonprofit social club dedicated to the preservation, promotion and enjoyment of the Packard automobile. The club provides members the information and material they need to maintain their cars, and hosts events, tours and exhibitions. Members receive their award-winning quarterly magazine, invitations to their annual Membership Meet and National Tour, access to their projects and literature and the ability to join one of their regional clubs. Regions host local events and tours where you can enjoy the camaraderie of fellow Packard enthusiasts.
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach is located at 1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach.
COVID-19: 14 new cases and no new deaths reported in Newport Beach this past week
Stu News Newport is now reporting COVID-19 numbers on a weekly basis, as reported by the OC Health Care Agency.
This week, June 4-10, there have been 14 new cases in Newport Beach and no new deaths, bringing the overall totals to 3,933 cases reported to date and 76 overall deaths.
During the past week, the county reported a total of 223 new cases, raising the total to 255,570 to date. The death totals for the county were 22 for the week, bringing the overall total number of deaths to 5,092.
As of yesterday, June 10, Orange County has performed a cumulative of 3,993,911 tests to date. There are 53 current cases of hospitalized patients in Orange County, of which 14 are in ICU.
For questions about the data presented by the county, call 714.834.2000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
To view the county’s data dashboard, click here.
COVID-19 numbers are updated weekly by Stu News Newport in Friday’s edition.
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Data courtesy of OC Health Care Agency
Commodores and War set for summer evening at OC Fair’s Pac Amp
Two big-name 70s bands will share the stage to head up OC Fair’s 2021 Toyota Summer Concert Series at the Pacific Amphitheatre. The Commodores and War will bring favorites like “Brick House,” “Easy,” “Lowrider” and “Why Can’t We Be Friends.”
Tickets are now on sale here for the Thursday, Aug. 5 engagement that begins at 7:30 p.m.
And just across the fairground’s property at The Hangar more acts have been named.
On Thursday, July 22 at 8:30 p.m., The Long Run, offering up the best of the Eagles will perform. The tribute band will feature a celebration of the 45th anniversary of Hotel California.
On Wednesday, July 28, 24K Magic, the No. 1 tribute band to Bruno Mars will perform. Attendees will dance to the performances of hits like “Uptown Funk” and, of course, “24K Magic.” It all begins at 8:30 p.m.
Don’t Stop Believin’, a Journey tribute band, will offer up a perfect way to enjoy the return to summer fun. They’re booked at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 29.
Finally, hear the sounds of Huey Lewis and the News as tribute band The Heart of Rock & Roll hits The Hangar on Wednesday, Aug. 11 at 8:30 p.m.
Tickets for all of these shows are on sale here. Concert tickets include same-day admission to the OC Fair.
The 2021 OC Fair is July 16-August 15, open Wednesday-Sunday. Advance tickets are required. For more information, go to www.ocfair.com.
The City Arts Commission and SCR present Red Riding Hood virtually
The City Arts Commission and South Coast Repertory (SCR) have come together to provide a free virtual showing of Red Riding Hood, a modern twist on a classic fairytale. It’s available until Sunday, June 13.
The production is part of South Coast Repertory’s Theatre for a Young Generation program and is the first show of their 2021 Spring/Summer season. Suitable for ages 4 and up, this family-friendly performance is directed by Emmy award winner Shannon Flynn and filmed with a multi-camera setup to provide theatre lovers everywhere with the best seat in the house.
Registration is free, however, there are a limited number of tickets available for this virtual performance. For tickets, sign up on the Newport Beach Public Library website.
Once registered, a one-time access link will be sent to the connected email address for viewing on the South Coast Repertory streaming website. Viewers will have 24 hours to complete their streaming, with an end date on June 13 at 11:59 p.m. Only one ticket will be available per email address.
For more information, visit the Newport Beach Public Library website at www.newportbeachlibrary.org.
Tickets are funded by the Newport Beach City Arts Commission who provide various arts programs and events for the cultural enrichment of our community, including visual, educational and performing arts.
Applications for the Leadership Tomorrow Class of 2022 now being accepted
It is no secret that businesspeople are better prepared to lead and serve a community when they know its inner workings and what its needs are. This is why each year nearly 30 community leaders participate in the Leadership Tomorrow program. A nonprofit organization, Leadership Tomorrow serves the communities of Costa Mesa, Irvine, Newport Beach and Tustin, and is supported by many community-minded organizations.
If you know someone who would be a good fit for the Leadership Tomorrow program starting in September, please encourage them to apply.
Leadership Tomorrow encourages those that are interested to apply online. An interview will be arranged with some of the Leadership Tomorrow board members (potentially in person or via Zoom) to answer any questions about the program.
Applications are now being accepted with interviews being scheduled for June.
To apply, visit www.leadershiptomorrow.org/apply/.
ENC to hold Wine Walk
Join the Environmental Nature Center (ENC) for a Wine Walk on Saturday, June 26 with two-hour tasting windows from 4-8 p.m. Enjoy a fabulous afternoon of wine tasting, while helping to raise funds for environmental education in our community.
Winery representatives from several wineries who will be pouring for the event include Abigail Adams Wines, Calipaso Winery & Villa, Casa de Valor, Clos Mares and Rubia Winery…with more coming soon.
Guests will walk through the Center and stop at wine tasting stations designed by Dolce Picnics along the trails to taste wines from several California wineries. Small bites will be provided in individual portions for your safety, curated by Benci Socal. Bid on fabulous items and experiences in an online silent auction. Bring home a mystery bottle of wine from the Wine Pull. End your walk with Kean Coffee and dessert by Lola Blendz. You can purchase wines that evening at the Hi-Time Wine Cellars table for store pick-up at a later date, and a percentage of wine sales will help support environmental education at the ENC.
You don’t need to attend the event to participate in the fabulous online silent auction featuring a number of excellent items, including:
–A case of Syrah from Jack McGinley Vineyard donated by Bellante Family Winery.
–A day of pampering, relaxation and Five-Star luxury at Pelican Hill Spa Day in California.
To donate a silent auction item, visit www.encenter.org/wine-walk-auction-donation, or if you have questions, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Tickets are $125 per person or $200 per couple, 21 and over only. One hundred percent of ticket sales will support environmental education at the ENC. To register, visit www.encenter.org.
Environmental Nature Center is located at 1601 E. 16th St., Newport Beach.
Coastal and ocean photo contest accepting entries
Entries are open for the 22nd Annual Coastal and Ocean Amateur Photography Contest. Photos of the following subjects can be submitted: the scenic coast and Pacific Ocean off California, people and the California Coast, or the California ocean and coastal wildlife.
Entry is free and open to the public. You can visit https://mycoastalphoto.com for details. Enter photos from now through July 17.
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Photo by Douglas Croft
You can also visit and vote for your favorites until July 30. Four contest winners will be announced. Online voters will pick one Viewers’ Choice winner, while Judges’ Choice winners will be selected for first through third place.
Winners will select from the following donated prize packages:
–Four tickets for a San Diego whale watch cruise, courtesy of San Diego Whale Watch; and four tickets for a kayak or paddleboard wildlife tour of Mission Bay, courtesy of Aqua Adventures.
–Two tickets for a Santa Barbara whale watch cruise, courtesy of Condor Express; two tickets for a Morro Bay kayak tour, courtesy of Central Coast Outdoors; and two tickets for a winery tour, courtesy of Malibu Wine Hikes.
–Two tickets for a Moss Landing whale watch cruise, courtesy of Sea Goddess Whale Watch; one stand-up paddleboard lesson courtesy of 510 Waterline, Richmond; and one Tomales Bay double kayak adventure, courtesy of Blue Waters Kayaking.
–Two tickets for a Monterey whale watching cruise courtesy of Discovery Whale Watch; a stand-up paddleboard or kayak rental, courtesy of SeaTrek Sausalito; a kayak rental courtesy of Stacked Adventures, Alameda; and two stand-up paddle board classes and rentals, courtesy of Mike’s Paddle, Alameda.
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Photo by Andrew Spivey
Guidelines for entries are as follows:
–Images may be in color or black and white.
–Photographs must be taken from a public place.
–Plants and animals depicted should be native species in their natural setting.
–Photos of marine mammals must be taken at a distance of 50 yards away or more to avoid illegal disturbance or harassment.
–Up to five pictures may be submitted.
–Entrants must earn less than 50 percent of their income from photography.
–Photographers will be giving non-exclusive rights to their photo, with photographer credit.
Segerstrom Center announces stars for 2021-22 Cabaret Series
Celebrated Broadway stars and cabaret artists return to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for the 2021-2022 Cabaret Series. These are the acclaimed voices and personalities who captivate audiences with their performances, whether in the top shows in New York City, concert halls, or in the hottest “in spots” and clubs around the country.
The series begins with Tony® Award winner Laura Benanti making her Center debut, followed by Cabaret Series favorite Megan Hilty and the series debuts of John Lloyd Young’s Broadway, Jane Lynch and Kate Flannery, Tony Yazbek and Caissie Levy. All performances by these artists will be in the intimate, club-style setting of Samueli Theater.
Subscriptions for all seven concerts are $434 and are on sale now at the Center’s website, www.SCFTA.org/subscriptions, or by calling 714.556.2787. Single tickets will go on sale approximately eight weeks prior to individual engagements. For inquiries about group ticket discounts, call the Group Services office at 714.755.0236.
The performance schedule features:
Laura Benanti, September 23-25, whose Broadway resume includes Lincoln Center’s acclaimed production of My Fair Lady, She Loves Me, Gypsy (2008 Tony® Award for Outstanding Feature Actress in a Musical) and Into The Woods. Benanti also appears frequently in television and film roles, and her most recent credits include TVLand’s Younger, HBO Max’s much-awaited Gossip Girl reboot, a new Netflix drama, Worth, and her most recent film, Here Today, with Billy Crystal and Tiffany Haddish.
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Photos courtesy of SCFTA.org
Megan Hilty to grace the stage on October 21-23
Megan Hilty, October 21-23, might be best known for starring as triple-threat Ivy Lynn in NBC’s musical drama Smash, and has triumphed on Broadway, earning Tony® and Drama Desk® nominations for her performance in the hilarious comedy Noises Off. She originated the role of Doralee in Broadway’s 9 to 5 and has been an acclaimed Glinda in WICKED, both in New York and on national tour. Expect to be dazzled, delighted and thoroughly entertained!
John Lloyd Young’s Broadway, December 15-17, with music director Tommy Faragher on piano – Young will be singing from Jersey Boys, The Wiz, Chicago, Hair, Dreamgirls and more, along with classics by legendary Broadway writers including Rodgers, Hart, Hammerstein and Loesser. He is the Tony® and Grammy award-winning star from the Original Broadway Cast of Jersey Boys as well as Clint Eastwood’s Warner Bros. movie adaptation.
Jane Lynch and Kate Flannery: Two Lost Souls, January 27-29, 2021 –
Lynch is an actress, singer, playwright and author, receiving an Emmy® and Golden Globe® for her portrayal of the iconic bully Sue Sylvester on Glee. She is currently the two-time Emmy Award-winning host of NBC’s Hollywood Game Night and can be seen on Amazon Prime’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel with her Emmy Award-winning performance as Sophie Lennon. Flannery is best known for her nine seasons as Meredith the drunk on NBC’s The Office and, more recently, her impressive run on ABC’s Dancing With The Stars. Other recent TV appearances include New Girl, American Housewife, Another Period and Brooklyn Nine Nine.
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Tony Yazbek comes to Segerstrom Center on March 24-26, 2022
Tony Yazbek, March 24-26, 2022 – since his Broadway debut as a newsboy in the 1989 revival of Gypsy, the quintessential song-and-dance man has continued to land coveted roles and garner critical acclaim – including a Tony® Award nomination for the leading role in On the Town.
Caissie Levy, May 19-21, 2022 – one of Broadway’s most sought-after performers, she has starred in iconic productions on Broadway and London’s West End. After two years of a successful Broadway run, she took her last bow as Elsa, the role she originated in Disney’s production of Frozen. She also recreated the iconic role of Fantine in the Broadway revival of Les Misérables, and is known to Broadway and West End audiences for originating the roles of Sheila in the Tony® Award-winning revival of Hair and Molly in Ghost.
Premier outdoor market brings vintage goods, antiques and more to OC Fairgrounds on Saturday
This Saturday, June 12 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., visit the Flying Miz Daisy Outdoor Vintage Market at the Orange County Fair & Event Center.
This premier outdoor market will feature more than 150 vendors offering vintage, antique, repurposed, European, farmhouse, industrial and hand-crafted artisan goods.
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Courtesy of Flying Miz Daisy
According to Flying Miz Daisy Founder Char Goetz, “Flying Miz Daisy is, above all, a family. This vintage market is a community that welcomes those who seek a different kind of relationship with the goods that surround them.
“What customers will experience at Flying Miz Daisy is the ability to converse with the exhibitor, to use all their senses when shopping, to learn the rich history of each piece that has been carefully curated, collected and restored to find its way to them. It is a shopping experience unlike any other, not just a market, but a social experience, a chance to explore tastes and learn about others’, and a place to truly feel at home.”
Admission is free, however fairground parking is $10 and requires credit card only for payment.
Attendees should enter Lot D at Gate 3 off of Fairview Road.
You can find more information at www.flyingmizdaisy.com.
Orange County Fair & Event Center is located at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa.
Music is back as Chamber Music Series readies for performances and tickets go on sale
As the pandemic winds down and isolation becomes a thing of the past, live music and in-person audiences will return to the Segerstrom Center for the Arts with the 2021-2022 Chamber Music Series.
Each year, the Center’s series presents ensembles and musicians who have reached the pinnacle of the classical music world. This season’s series includes the return of series favorites Emerson String Quartet, Takács String Quartet, St. Lawrence String Quartet, Calidore String Quartet and the Auryn Quartet, plus series debuts of the Esmé and Mozart Piano Quartet.
Guest soloists are pianist Stephen Prustman returning with the St. Lawrence String Quartet and soprano Monica Shober in her Chamber Music Series debut, Armen Guzelimian will perform with the Auryn Quartet and baritone Benjamin Howard in his series debut, and Soo Yeon Lyuh will appear with Esmé String Quartet. The Takács String Quartet and the Calidore String Quartet will perform premieres of two new works commissioned by generous Center Chamber Music Series donors Elizabeth and Justus Schlichting.
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Courtesy of Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Soo Yeon Lyuh appearing with Esmé String Quartet is among the exciting acts gracing the stage in this year’s Chamber Music Series
All performances will be in Samueli Theater and include preview talks by Dr. Byron Adams one hour prior to the concerts. Dr. Adams studied piano with May Lou Wesley Kosnick and composition with Gurney Kennedy at Jacksonville University. He received a Master of Music degree from the University of Southern California, where his principal composition teacher was Morten Lauridsen. He was awarded his doctoral degree from Cornell University, studying composition with Karl Husa and musicology with William W. Austin. He is currently a professor of music at the University of California, Riverside.
Subscriptions for all seven concerts are $182 and are on sale now at the Center’s website, www.SCFTA.org/subscriptions, or by calling 714.556.2787. Single tickets will go on sale approximately eight weeks prior to individual engagements. For inquiries about group ticket discounts, call the Group Services office at 714.755.0236.
The dates for each are St. Lawrence String Quartet + Stephen Prustman and Monica Schober, September 21, 8 p.m.; Auryn Quartet, October 10, 3 p.m.; Mozart Piano Quartet, October 30, 8 p.m.; Takács String Quartet, December 8, 8 p.m.: Calidore String Quartet, February 17, 2022, 8 p.m.; Esmé String Quartet, March 18, 2022, 8 p.m.; and Emerson String Quartet, May 5, 2022, 8 p.m.
Sherman Library & Gardens offers mini-gardeners summer camp in July
Kids – get ready to get your hands dirty! Learn to grow your own food in the beautiful Sherman Gardens during their summer gardening camp. Their garden educators will introduce you to the tasty plants that thrive here, help you to plant your own delicious mini-garden and teach you the basics of plant care. The camp includes a variety of fun and creative planting projects to take home including a mini-veg planter and recycled paper pots project.
As mini gardeners, you will go behind the scenes, meet the garden horticulturists and learn in the garden before the public arrives. This STEAM-based camp will develop skills of observation, design and practical plant care.
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Courtesy of Sherman Library & Gardens
Mini-gardeners learn “hands on” practical plant skills during summer gardening camp
COVID-19 Precautions: Children must wear masks at all times, except when eating. Group size is limited to 10 participants to allow for social distancing. All camp activities take place outdoors.
Due to limited space, refunds will not be given. Participants may sign up for any or all of the weekly camps. There will be no proration of fees for any days a child participant cannot attend. Only 10 places are available per week, so book early.
Typical Daily Schedule:
–8:45-9 a.m.: Drop off at Library Courtyard Gate (Dahlia Avenue)
–9-10 a.m.: Exploring the garden with an activity, such as a scavenger hunt
–10-10:20 a.m.: Break/snack in the garden
–10:20 a.m.-12 p.m.: Practical creative/planting projects
–12-12:15 p.m.: Pick up at Library Courtyard Gate (Dahlia Avenue)
Age Guidelines: Mini Gardeners Summer Camp is geared for children ages 7-10 years old.
Camp Dates:
Week 1: Tuesday, July 6 through Friday, July 9
Week 2: Monday, July 12 through Thursday, July 15
Week 3: Monday, July 19 through Thursday, July 23
Week 4: Monday, July 26 through Thursday, July 29
Fees: Member: $180 per week; Non-Member: $200 per week
To register, visit https://thesherman.org/event/summer-camp-2021/. For more information, go to https://thesherman.org/events/summer-camp/.
More than 400 City of Newport Beach summer camps to choose from
Set sail with Newport Beach summer camps. Camp Newport is ready to help kids find some fun in Newport Beach this summer.
Camp Newport is partnering with your favorite instructors to offer virtual and in-person camps, with half-day and full-day options in a variety of topics. From surfing, sailing and bodyboarding along our famous sandy shores to science, art, sports and more, Camp Newport will help campers find ways to enjoy the sun, make exciting memories and connect with others in a safe environment.
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Courtesy of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Dept.
Sailing is among the activities at Camp Newport this summer
For more information, visit www.campnewport.com, contact the Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Department at 949.644.3151, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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.”
The shelter still has pretty Paisley for adoption. She came into the shelter totally underweight and has really filled out since she’s been there. She’s 10 years of age, loves attention and loves it so much that she definitely wants to be the only queen bee that’s feline in the household. She is truly a gorgeous domestic long hair. Her fur is really silky. She’s a great eater and has no bad habits. She is just totally into spending time with others and getting lots of pets.
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Courtesy of Newport Beach Animal Shelter
Meet Paisley
If you’d love to share life with a really interactive cat, please feel free to contact the Newport Beach Animal Shelter and they’ll be happy to set up an appointment for you to meet Paisley. Contact the shelter landline at 949.718.3454. If you’d like to get the adoption process started, please visit the shelter’s nonprofit’s website at www.FONBAS.org to obtain the required application, and after it is completed, you can email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for review.
Newport Beach Animal Shelter adoption fees:
–Adult Dogs - $150
–Puppies - $225
–Adult Cats - $90
–Kittens - $110
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.
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
