Fair Game
By TOM JOHNSON
The amazing survival of the “Miracle Whale” seen off our coast
The Pacific Crest Trail is a long-distance hiking challenge spanning 2,653 miles and running from Mexico to Canada through the states of California, Oregon and Washington. It includes the highest portion of the Cascade and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, which both lie some 100-150 miles east of the Pacific coast. The Trail ranges from a low of some 110 ft. above sea level near the Bridge of the Gods on the Oregon-Washington border to a high of 13,153 ft. up at Forester Pass in the Sierra Nevada.
One can only imagine what it would be like to hike it.
Now, let’s say you were capable of that and wanted to do it, but before you did, you lost your leg. That would seem to make that trek now nearly impossible.
Fast-forward over to our local ocean area. According to Jessica Roame, who is the Education Manager for Newport Whales here in Newport Beach, there’s a Gray Whale off our coast that’s doing something nearly as impossible as that one-legged hike I mentioned above.
Earlier this month, folks with Newport Whales, which includes Newport Landing, Davey’s Locker & Newport Coastal Adventure, spotted and identified what’s being called the “Miracle Whale” off our local coast. Why is this particular whale a “miracle?” Well, it’s completely missing its fluke or, what would be more commonly identified as, its tail fin.
It was first spotted around 10 a.m. on March 13, cruising along at what’s considered a normal pace of 3 mph, according to Jessica. She added that this “whale appeared able to make its migration from Alaska to Mexico and back, since this injury looks to be several years old.” That’s a 12,000-mile round trip migration from their feeding grounds in Alaska to their breeding grounds in Mexico and back again.
That would seem to be a miracle…hence the name.
Jessica says the whale might be a little underweight, but not dramatically so. And, she added that this type of injury was likely caused by its tail becoming tangled in commercial fishing gear, and eventually falling off.
She added, “As horrible as this injury is, it’s incredible that this whale is determined to survive, and so far appears to be successful in doing so.”
Jessica forwarded pictures of the whale, as seen recently off the coast. To me, it’s a simply remarkable story and an example of a great will to survive.
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Photo by @NewportCoastalAdventure
The “Miracle Whale” submerging with the portion just above the fluke still exposed
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Photo by @NewportCoastalAdventure
The whale just before it becomes completely submerged
How important is the fluke or tail fin? Well, when a whale dives it’s called fluking for a reason. The whale begins their deep dive by lifting the fluke into the air to help thrust its body into a more steeply angled descent into deeper waters. This allows the whale to successfully forage for food.
And, on the flip side, when a whale’s body leaves the water (think Pacific Life TV commercials here), they use their fluke to do so. For Gray Whales, they only sometimes breach, but when they do so, it can cause a big enough splash that can often be seen from several miles away.
For a second, imagine what challenges this whale experiences in attempting to do any of this.
Jessica wanted me to remind you all that Newport Landing, Davey’s Locker & Newport Coastal Adventure operate daily whale watching tours out of the Newport Harbor. You may check them out on Instagram @Newportwhales and @NewportCoastalAdventure.
And, although there are no guarantees, perhaps a trip in the near future will lead to another sighting of the “Miracle Whale.”
• • •
Tomorrow (Saturday, April 1) is the 8th Annual: Mayor’s Egg Race that takes place on the Civic Center Lawn from 10 a.m-12 p.m. Besides the egg races, which obviously is the centerpiece attraction, there will also be bounce houses, games, train rides, crafts and plenty of photo opportunities.
Take the kids, it’s fun! And, it’s all free.
Heck, and with the price of eggs these days, you might as well take advantage of what the Easter Bunny is offering up at no charge.
• • •
Last issue I wrote about tourism and jokingly mentioned an idea for a T-shirt related to tourism. Wendy Frankel, who lives on the Peninsula, countered back with a T-shirt idea of her own, saying “Please be nice to a local. This is our home.”
Touché! Point well taken.
• • •
Next Thursday, April 6, the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce will feature Chapman President Daniele Struppa, Ph.D. at their April WAKE UP! Newport. The morning meeting runs from 7-8:30 a.m. in the Friends Room of the Newport Beach Public Library.
Dr. Struppa will offer up the successes of Chapman’s 2018-2022 strategic plan as well as discuss the university’s next five-year plan.
The meeting is free, but because a complimentary continental breakfast kicks things off, the chamber would appreciate an RSVP to plan for food.
• • •
If you are a young professional looking to connect and make a difference in our community and interested in learning about the key components that form the foundation of the City of Newport Beach, today is the deadline to sign up for Newport Beach Foundation’s Distinguished Citizen Program. The spring class meets on five evenings – May 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 from 5:30-8 p.m. Applicants must live or work in Newport Beach. For more information and to apply, go here.
• • •
On Tuesday, April 4, join community members and the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the CVS Pharmacy at 9 a.m., welcoming them to the village. Enjoy a DJ spinning tunes, free swag, snacks and refreshments, discounts and a tour of the facility, complete with presentations and photos. The CVS Pharmacy is located at 3049 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar, next to Mother’s Market.
Council gets “early look” at upcoming capital improvement projects
By SARA HALL
During a study session this week, city staff presented an “early look” at the preliminary new projects and funding proposed for the FY 2023-24 capital improvement program for council review and discussion.
Staff has done a good job on the project list and it’s important that they build and invest in the future, said Mayor Noah Blom at the meeting on Tuesday (March 28).
“We look at every one of these projects and the reinvestment into this city is so important to everyone that sits up here,” he said. “We’re looking for the best way forward in all of these ideals.”
Staff starts work on the CIP in January during the council’s planning session, explained Public Works Director Dave Webb. After hearing the key priorities and goals with some general direction, they go to all departments and find out about their needs, he noted.
“This is an exciting time every year for us as we put together the capital improvement program,” Webb said.
It’s essentially a summary of the projects headed to council in the upcoming year, he added.
Public Works Deputy Director Jim Houlihan explained that the goals for the allocation of the CIP include: Budget focuses resources on maintaining or replacing existing infrastructure to keep it in good working condition; includes $6 million baseline general fund investment towards citywide infrastructure maintenance and repair; includes $2.5 million for facility maintenance master plan projects and $1 million for parks maintenance master plan projects.
Some of the significant projects under construction: Junior lifeguard facility; Sunset View Park and Superior Avenue pedestrian bridge; Balboa Boulevard and Newport Coast Drive pavement rehabilitation; West Irvine Terrace and Balboa Island water main replacement; 16th Street pump station upgrades and backup generator; water transmission main valve replacement; Peninsula tidegate improvement project and Gateway Park landscape improvements.
It’s been challenging to work on these projects with all the rain this winter, Houlihan noted.
Answering a question from the council, Houlihan explained that the foundation is down and the walls are formed for the junior lifeguard facility. They are at least a month behind where they thought they’d be due to the weather, he noted.
“They’re trying to accelerate it,” he said, noting that they’ve started working on Saturdays to try and catch up. “We’re working to bring that back into the box as quickly as we can.”
If the NBJG program starts before the building is completed, there will still be safety measures in place, noted Mayor Pro Tem Will O’Neill.
“I recognize that this water has not been helpful for that so I appreciate the effort,” O’Neill said.
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Courtesy of City of Newport Beach
A rendering of the planned Junior Lifeguard facility, one of the big projects currently under construction
Councilmember Brad Avery asked about the scope of the damage from the winter rain, in terms of road repair and various damage.
There are some infrastructure issues to deal with, Webb noted, but the roads held up pretty well. There are a few potholes, but nothing major. The biggest concern is the beaches and ongoing southerly swells, he added. Some of the beaches have had a lot of additional erosion due to the storms.
There is a notable investment in infrastructure projects in the CIP.
The preliminary FY 2023-24 CIP shows a tentative total of approximately $72.3 million ($29 million in new funding and $43.3 million in assumed re-budgeting). It’s a little tighter this year compared to last year’s $103.4 million CIP, Houlihan noted.
“We’re working with the resources we have,” he said.
In the re-budgeted items (assumed from the upcoming July 1 meeting), some of the large projects include $10.8 million for the library lecture hall, $1.9 million for the Newport Bay water wheel, $900,000 for Newport Coast pickleball courts, $3.4 million for Balboa and Newport boulevards pavement project, $7 million for city yard fueling and transfer station and $6.4 million for the Balboa Island drainage improvement project.
These six projects represent 70% of the re-budget, Houlihan explained.
In new funding, some of the larger or notable projects include: $850,000 for the 15th Street restroom replacement; $3.64 million for East Coast Highway pavement rehabilitation; $500,000 for the streetlight rehabilitation program; $1.3 million for the Newport Bay trash wheel; $800,000 for Balboa yacht basin docks replacement; $500,000 for the design of the Balboa Island seawall in the ferry landing area; $1.92 million for phase three of the Balboa Island water main replacement and $200,000 to study a fleet electrification program.
Houlihan provided specifics on some of the significant projects.
The 15th Street restroom is under design right now, Houlihan said. They are anticipating getting through permitting in the second half of the fiscal year of 2024, with construction to follow.
The East Coast Highway pavement rehabilitation is the section between Jamboree and MacArthur roads. The city is responsible for this portion of the highway, Houlihan noted. It’s a large project that is currently under design. Caltrans will start repaving Coast Highway from the Santa Ana River to Jamboree next fall.
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Mallard duck shot through neck with arrow but survives, NBPD seeking culprit
Last Saturday, Newport Beach Police received a call reporting an injured mallard duck with an arrow through his neck swimming around a lake in Newport Beach. The next day, the Costa Mesa Police Department responded to a call concerning the same duck, who was now in Costa Mesa, just a half-mile away from the Newport Beach lake. Their officers were able to catch him and take him to the Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center.
Courtesy of NBPD
The duck is being held and the arrow can be seen protruding from its neck
The arrow was removed and the mallard is receiving veterinary care.
The NBPD is investigating this incident as a case of animal cruelty and unlawful hunting. Anyone with information about this case, or who can identify those responsible, is asked to contact NBPD Animal Control Officer Nick Ott at 949.644.3688, ext. 2716, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Unexpected chance meeting just might lead to solution for Balboa Island Ferry’s mandate
By GARY SHERWIN
Nothing quite galvanizes Newport Beach residents as when a relatively unknown state government agency tries to force an unfunded mandate on a beloved and historically significant local attraction thereby threatening its existence.
And so it is with the Balboa Island Ferry, whose future is in jeopardy due to the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) requirement that the ferry convert their diesel engines to all electric by the end of next year.
I first wrote about this a couple of weeks ago and the response has been loud and clear. Let’s just say that the citizens of Newport Beach are not pleased.
It’s no secret that California has been pushing clean energy for some time now. Everything from leaf blowers to trucks hauling goods out of the ports are being required to redesign their motors or engines to something nonpolluting, perhaps either hydrogen or electric.
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Photos courtesy of Visit Newport Beach
Gary Sherwin
In the ferry’s case, the challenge is not the interest in clean energy. It’s the fact that the technology for the ferry to make such a conversion simply doesn’t exist right now. It’s like telling everyone they must move to Mars next summer and there isn’t a rocket ship to even take you there.
It’s one of those mandates that perhaps could have been surgically implemented across industries, but instead was broadly applied in the aspirational goal of making California a truly clean energy state.
While weaning ourselves off fossil fuels is a nice idea, the problem is not only emerging technology but the price tag. For the ferry, putting an electric engine in what are essentially old barges doesn’t come cheap. To convert three ferries, assuming it can be done in the future, would cost $4.5 million on a business that generates $2 million in a very good year.
And I was reminded by David Beek from Marine Island Fuel whose family runs the ferry, installing potentially hot burning electric batteries in old wooden barges is going to need the approval of the Coast Guard which still may not sign off due to safety issues.
For CARB, this was one of those well-intended programs with unintended outcomes. But since my first column, a few notable things have occurred.
During a Visit California mission to Tokyo a few weeks ago, which was led by Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis and focused on tourism, agriculture and clean energy partnerships with Japan, I was surprised to find the actual Chairperson of CARB, Liane Randolph, literally standing next to me during introductions.
It was a crazy coincidence. Randolph was there as part of the state delegation and to participate in an alternative energy panel. Who would have thought it took a trip to Japan to help resolve the ferry problem?
Visit California President and CEO Caroline Beteta, who leads the state’s massive tourism marketing efforts, has also taken up the cause. Together, we had a brief meeting with Chairperson Randolph to discuss the issue. We both found her to be kind and thoughtful. She gave me her card and suggested that I contact her once we returned home, which I did. She responded immediately and asked a couple more questions before passing the issue along to her staff.
Additionally, Assemblywoman Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) has been hard at work on the issue as well. Reached earlier this week in Sacramento, she said she is willing to introduce spot legislation later this year if an agreement with CARB doesn’t materialize. She has reached out to CARB staff and is hopeful that Governor Newsom’s staff will also get involved with the issue.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our little ferry could be the impetus for some bipartisan cooperation in Sacramento?
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Balboa Island Ferry
Additionally, there has been considerable media interest in the issue which has energized the community. It seems like no one wants to look at the prospect of the ferry going away.
The Newport Beach City Council is also getting involved and is preparing a letter to state officials urging a resolution to protect the treasured local attraction, according to Councilman Joe Stapleton.
The end goal here is pretty simple. As was explained to Chairperson Randolph, they need to give the ferry more time to comply with the mandate. If the auto industry was given a 2035 deadline to install electric engines, why not extend that same requirement to the ferry? By that time, not only can an engineering solution be devised but battery technology can evolve to make it more affordable for the ferry to make the conversion. And although it hasn’t been asked for, how about a little financial relief to make all of this happen?
Along those lines, I learned earlier this week that CARB gave the San Francisco Ferry a $3 million grant to convert their engines to new hydrogen fuel cell technology. In their case, they have 70-foot catamarans and operate 16 vessels to cities including Oakland. These aluminum ferries can transport up to 75 passengers at a top speed of 15 knots.
These new zero-emissions ferries will be undergoing trials and expect to start carrying passengers later this year. The boats will have enough hydrogen storage capacity for two days of normal operation.
Also, the Angel Island Tiburon Ferry, which transports thousands of visitors annually from Tiburon to the state park on the island, announced it is converting their engines to electric sometime next year.
That’s great news for them. However, our ferries are not sleek large aluminum vessels. As Beek has said many times before, these are barges which also carry vehicles, unlike some of the other ferries, and is a different beast altogether.
Ferry owner, and David’s dad, Seymour Beek, whose family has operated the attraction since it was started in 1919, is hopeful that a solution can be found and is committed to keeping it open as a valued community asset assuming it makes financial sense.
So, can Sacramento work out a deal that will keep the ferry afloat? I’m cautiously optimistic. I don’t believe CARB would like to see our beloved ferry end its 104-year-old run. And, as was pointed out to Chairperson Randolph, the elimination of the ferry would actually INCREASE pollutants since it would add more cars to the peninsula and Balboa Island which is exactly what the mandate is trying to address.
The ball is now in CARB’s court and they know our concerns. Let’s hope they don’t drop it.
Gary Sherwin is President & CEO of Visit Newport Beach and Newport Beach & Company.
Newport Beach Police Detectives’ investigation uncovers two suspects that are then arrested in series of local burglaries
In late January 2023, a victim reported to Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD) that he had $18,000 in cash stolen from his vehicle while it was parked at Fashion Island. The victim stated that he was going to Las Vegas for the weekend and had withdrawn money from the bank just prior to going to Fashion Island. While shopping, his vehicle was broken into and the money was taken. Video of the crime was located and showed an unknown suspect entering the victim’s vehicle.
Photos courtesy of the NBPD
Parking structure security footage of suspect approaching the victim’s vehicle
NBPD detectives investigated the case and located a crime bulletin from a neighboring city involving a similar-looking suspect who had used stolen credit cards to make fraudulent purchases. Further investigation revealed the credit cards were originally stolen in Los Angeles County. NBPD detectives traveled to Los Angeles, met with local detectives there, and were eventually able to identify a possible suspect.
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The shoes one of the suspects was wearing when arrested; the same shoes the suspect wore in the security footage
Further investigation on the suspect revealed him to be a well-known vehicle burglar who is known to use a device or his phone to defeat vehicle-locking mechanisms. Additionally, the suspect was on criminal probation and was currently out on bail for multiple burglaries in Los Angeles County.
NBPD detectives obtained a search warrant for the suspect and ultimately located and arrested him last week (March 23). During a subsequent search of his vehicle, detectives located several credit cards that had been stolen from additional vehicle burglaries in Newport Beach. Additional property was located in his vehicle that was found to be stolen during a storage unit burglary in Los Angeles County.
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Stolen toolbox located when detectives searched the suspect’s vehicle
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Stolen welder also found in the suspect’s vehicle
Detectives continued their investigation, which revealed the arrestee worked alongside a second suspect during the burglaries at Fashion Island. Detectives tracked down this second suspect and arrested him, as well. This was an extremely successful investigation by NBPD detectives that took the two prolific burglars off the street who had apparently victimized many Newport Beach community members.
To avoid being the victim of a burglary like this, please do not leave any property in your car. If you must leave something in your vehicle, make sure to put it in the trunk or conceal it before you arrive at your destination. After going to the bank or shopping, it is best to go directly home instead of storing your newly acquired valuables in your vehicle while you run other errands. You never know who might be hanging out in the parking lot watching you stash your property in the backseat or in the trunk. Finally, remember to always lock your car to keep opportunists from rummaging through the glove compartment and center console.
Editor’s Note: This is an ongoing series of community information provided by the Newport Beach Police Department.
Winner of Smithsonian Conservationist Photographer of the Year to speak as part of Witte Lecture Series
With the urgent need to protect our increasingly fragile planet, Newport Beach Public Library Foundation (NBPLF) is presenting 2018 National Geographic’s Adventure of the Year and the Smithsonian Conservation Photographer of the Year, Cristina Mittermeier. As part of the Witte Lecture Series, she will be addressing, “Enoughness: Ocean Conservation,” on Friday, March 31 at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) and Saturday, April 1 at 2 p.m. (doors open at 1:30 p.m.).
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Photo by Mercedes Kanada/Courtesy of NBPLF
Cristina Mittermeier
With passion, conviction and a zest for life, illustrated by award-winning images and film, Mittermeier will share the hard-won wisdom she’s gleaned from documenting the far reaches of our planet and its people for decades. She challenges us to redefine our answers to “What is enough?”.
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Courtesy of NBPLF
Mittermeier under water capturing a shark through her lens
In 2020, she announced the most ambitious project of her career: “Only One,” a new digital technology product that amplifies stories, campaigns and solutions that sit at the intersection of ocean health and social justice, and uses the power of media and technology to inspire individuals to take action to rebuild ocean life. In recognition of her three decades of courageous journalism and making the pictures that tell the story of our planet, Mittermeier was recently presented with the Sylvia Earle Medal. Some will remember that Earle was an early Witte speaker. Mittermeier, representing the next generation, will inspire all to activism.
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The cost of the Friday, March 31 program is $65 and includes a lecture, book sale and signing, along with a light supper and wine. The cost of the Saturday, April 1 program is $45 and includes a lecture, book sale and signing, along with refreshments. To purchase tickets, go here.
Guest Column
Steve Rosansky, President & CEO
Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce
Protect Your Assets
The recent failure of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and Signature Bank has prompted me to review all my assets to ensure that they are as protected as can be. If you haven’t been watching the news (you’re probably not reading this column either), a couple of weeks ago, both SVB and Signature Bank experienced a run on their deposits when word started spreading that they were experiencing significant losses on their asset portfolios.
Banks don’t have all their depositors’ money readily available as they use the deposits to make loans for things like real estate, cars, equipment, working capital and credit cards. Or they invest the money in things like treasury securities.
The good thing is that the FDIC insures depositors up to $250,000 against a bank’s failure. The bad thing is that if you have more than $250,000 in accounts at the same bank, the excess may not be insured and depositors with high balances can lose everything above that amount.
In the case of both SVB and Signature Bank, the majority of the deposits were held in accounts well in excess of $250,000 and those depositors could have been out of luck, but for the announcement by Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen that all funds on deposit, whether or not they were more than $250,000, would be insured. In some cases, there were companies with tens to hundreds of millions of dollars in jeopardy.
Disaster averted!
While it might be difficult and inefficient for many companies, with large sums of cash for working capital or payroll, to spread out their funds on deposit over enough banks to avoid exceeding $250,000 per account, for most individuals, this may be a wise practice since the government might not bail out the next bank and Janet Yellen so much as said so. Of course, you should always check with your trusted financial advisers for your particular situation.
Other types of assets should also be periodically reviewed to make sure they are as well protected as can be. Perhaps the biggest asset most people will own is their home. If you haven’t talked with your insurance agent in several years, it is time to review policy limits and coverages. Are you insured enough for liability in the event that someone is injured on your property? Construction costs have been skyrocketing lately. Have you been upping the replacement cost coverage? Does your homeowner insurance cover you adequately for theft?
A friend of mine recently experienced a home invasion and hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry and handbags were taken. Make sure you have receipts and a good inventory and that you have purchased enough coverage to be reimbursed. Better yet, store them in a safety deposit box and retrieve them when you need them.
The recent rains and potential for flooding, as well as the ever-present danger of an earthquake, should lead you to evaluate whether you are protected from these disasters which typically require separate policies. Newport Beach has experienced King tides that have flooded streets and homes in recent years and many areas of Newport are built on soil with the potential for liquefaction in an earthquake.
If you have very little equity in your property, perhaps the cost of coverage outweighs the benefit. However, if your property has experienced a significant run up in value, your equity in the property will be high and being able to repair or replace it will be critical in preserving your net worth.
Another key asset class to protect are vehicles. California law only requires a minimum of $15,000/$30,000/$15,000 coverage for injury and property damage. All but opening your car door into the car parked next to it will result in claims well in excess of these amounts (and if you door ding a Lamborghini, you still might have to come out of pocket). Talk to your insurance agent and explore coverage limits that are realistic when compared to the risks out there. You’ll be surprised that additional coverage may not cost much more.
At the end of the day, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Balboa Museum Newport Beach celebrates 100 years of Theodore Robins Ford
By Pete Weitzner
Henry Ford rolled his first cars off the assembly line in 1893. That same year, Theodore Robins Sr. was born. Thirty years later, Robins sold his first Ford, a 1918 Coupe, out of his dealership near the Fun Zone on Balboa Peninsula.
This spring, the Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach is honoring 100 years and four generations of family-run Theodore Robins Ford with a comprehensive, upfront gallery exhibit, Celebrating 100 Years – Theodore Robins Ford.
“As far as we know, it was the first dealership in Newport Beach and one of the first in Orange County,” said grandson and Theodore Robins Ford co-owner David Robins.
Seattle émigré and World War I pilot-turned-entrepreneur, Theodore Robins Sr. entered the car business in 1921, with an auto shop repairing Model Ts on Bay Street on Balboa. The rent was $15 per month.
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Photos courtesy of Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach
Theodore Robins Sr. wearing coveralls in front of a Ford Model T
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Theodore Robins Sr.’s Bay Avenue service garage on Balboa Peninsula in the 1920s
Two years later, Robins drove up to Los Angeles – in a Model T – when he heard of a chance to buy a Ford franchise. He signed the deal on February 7, 1923. One week later, Valentine’s Day, he sold his first Ford for $637.10.
Business boomed. Robins expanded twice in Newport – first to 22nd Street, across from what today is the Crab Cooker Restaurant, then in the mid-1950s, to 3100 Pacific Coast Highway. In the ‘60s, they moved to Costa Mesa’s Harbor Boulevard, where Robins Ford has been a mainstay.
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Ford priced its Model Ts so most people could buy one, including the $260 Runabout, complete with waterproof gypsy curtains
The exhibition includes wonderful artifacts stretching more than 100 years of the Robins family and Ford, including a parchment display of all the Model Ts. Ford manufactured these “first cars that most people could buy” from 1908-1927, including the economy car of the portfolio – the $260 Runabout, complete with waterproof gypsy curtains.
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Theodore Robins Sr. receives a Four Letter Award in 1950
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Artifacts on display span the 100 years of Robins and Ford, most recently a Motorola Bag Phone on the right, a free manufacturer’s promotional item in the ‘80s with the purchase of a new Ford
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Photos of Theodore Robins Sr. include one in his trademark top hat, riding in one of the first Costa Mesa Fish Fry Parades in the 1950s (top row second from right)
The first-edition Motorola bag phone is also on display; it appears Ford gave those away with new cars in the ‘80s. Photos of Robins Sr. include one in his trademark top hat, riding in one of the first Costa Mesa Fish Fry Parades in the 1950s.
The foundation for success was laid early. “Always be respectful of each other in the family. The great work ethic has made it through the generations,” said David Robins.
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The Robins Family (Top): Patriarch Theodore Robins Sr.; (Bottom L-R): Grandson David Robins, Son Theodore “Bob” Robins Jr. and Grandson Jim Robins
“[It has received] a great reaction so far and a few inquiries if we’ll have an event or speaker,” Museum Executive Director Tiffany Pepys Hoey said.
The Theodore Robins Ford exhibition is on display through June.
Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach is open daily and located at 210B Marine Ave., Balboa Island. Visit the museum store, or shop online at https://balboaislandmuseum-shop.square.site/.
For more information, visit https://balboaislandmuseum.org.
Pete Weitzner is the co-producer of “The Golden Age of Newport Harbor,” a 45-minute film that covers Newport Harbor from the 1940s-1960s.
District names new principal for Newport Coast Elementary
Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) has announced the appointment of Heather Darrow as the principal of Newport Coast Elementary. She joins the NMUSD team after seven years as principal of Olive Elementary School in Orange. Her administrative experience also includes serving elementary schools within Capistrano Unified School District.
As principal, Darrow has demonstrated a passion and commitment to instructional leadership and a desire to work collectively with staff and parents to make a student’s educational experience positive, memorable and complete. She places high value on open communication and collaboration to foster strong relationships with all stakeholders, ultimately to meet the needs of students.
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Courtesy of NMUSD
Heather Darrow
Darrow not only has a depth of instructional and curriculum knowledge, but she has also held leadership and training roles in multiple areas including Gifted and Talented Education (GATE), Thinking Maps and Write from the Beginning. In addition, she had the honor of serving as a Cotsen Art of Teaching Fellow.
“Darrow’s experience, leadership and personable attitude are assets that will benefit not only Newport Coast, but also the district as a whole,” said Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education John Drake.
Darrow has earned two master’s degrees from Concordia University and her bachelor’s from California State University, Fullerton (CSUF). She begins her role at Newport Coast on May 2.
26th Annual Newport Harbor Home & Garden Tour scheduled for May 11
The 26th Annual Newport Harbor Home & Garden Tour, presented by Barclay Butera Interiors, has been scheduled for Thursday, May 11 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
The Home & Garden Tour will present seven beautiful homes in the Newport Harbor High School area, a luncheon and a specialty boutique overlooking the bay. The ticket price is $100.
The morning reception, taking place in a private Cliff Haven garden, will be open from 9-10:30 a.m.
Touring of the homes occurs 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
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Photo by Susan Rinek
A sneak peek at one of the homes opening to the public during the Newport Harbor Home & Garden Tour on May 11
The boutique, opportunity drawing and luncheon at Newport Theatre Arts Center will be followed by an afternoon reception at Barclay Butera Interiors.
Proceeds benefit the 2,500 students of Newport Harbor High School.
Beginning April 1, tickets may be purchased online or at the following locations: Barclay Butera Interiors, Fleur De Lys, Molly Wood Garden Design, Roger’s Gardens and Where’s The Party?
Hurry, as tickets will sell out. Ticket price is $110 after April 28, if they are still available. For tickets and more information, visit https://newportharborhometour.com.
You Must Remember This: NHHS water polo, then and now
By NANCY GARDNER
I didn’t grow up with a father who followed sports. As a result, I was never exposed to football, baseball or basketball. When I got to Harbor High, I went to a couple of football games as a freshman because friends went, and I hadn’t a clue as to what was going on. Being an obliging sort, I yelled whatever the cheerleaders exhorted me to yell, sang the fight song when the band played and then had a sort of “been there done that” reaction. I paid very little attention the rest of my time at Harbor and couldn’t have told you whether we had a good team or a bad one. I can now, however. We had bad teams. In looking back at my yearbooks, the varsity football team won one or two games a season and the losses were often by lopsided scores.
As for the other two big sports, I never went to a basketball or baseball game, although I did understand the sports since we girls played them in gym, although the girls’ version of basketball was a pale shadow of the boys’ game. Each player was limited to two dribbles, and everyone played half court, forwards on one half, guards on the other, with a foul being called if a player stepped over the line. This was the period when females were viewed as delicate little things, not up to the rigors of a full-court press. Again, I couldn’t have told you the status of either of the boys’ teams, but a quick look at the yearbooks shows they weren’t winning any trophies either.
Despite their less than indifferent records, these three sports were the leads in the yearbook productions. Meanwhile, the real talent, the one with actual Oscar potential, was hidden a bit backstage. You had to thumb through quite a few pages to get to swimming, but when you got there it was solid gold. Under the direction of Ted Newland, Harbor was a powerhouse with a tradition of sweeping the dual meets and winning Sunset League. I’ve often wondered if that dominance wasn’t why Newland introduced water polo to the school – to give him and his team a new challenge. A challenge it was, but in an unexpected way. In water polo you need to be a good swimmer, obviously, but it’s more than that. You’re going to be throwing a good-sized ball at a goal without the ground to provide a base. You have to have tremendous leg strength and technique to provide the leverage that lets you rise out of the water to make the shot, and not just for a second. A player may be up there for quite a period, faking, waiting for the goalie to commit before taking the shot and sinking down. Now this was in the days before lavish spending on high school sports venues. A pool was considered perfectly adequate if it held water and that the Harbor High pool did, just not that much of it. Most of the pool was barely five feet deep, which meant the guys could easily stand on the bottom. An advantage, right, standing to take shots on goal? Unfortunately, there’s a rule that you can’t touch or push off the bottom at any time. Do that, and you lose the ball, so the team had to learn all the movements in a very condensed fashion to avoid touching the tile or, as most of them did, learn to touch down so slyly that the referees couldn’t detect it. Of course, for visiting teams, it was an even worse challenge since most of them hadn’t practiced in a shallow pool, and some think this was why Harbor did so well right out of the gate, winning eight of 13 games its first year. I think it was just the raw talent imported from the swim team.
Today, Harbor has a beautiful pool with plenty of depth for water polo, and the current players far surpass those pioneers of the sport, but if you put them back in the old, shallow pool? My money’s on the old guys.
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Nancy Gardner, former Mayor of Newport Beach, long-time resident and daughter of Judge Robert Gardner, is a regular contributor to Stu News Newport.
Lawrence Fodor’s artworks displaying at SCAPE through April 5
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Courtesy of SCAPE
SCAPE gallery is currently displaying works by artist Lawrence Fodor entitled, “Il Giardino dei Segreti” (The Garden of Secrets). The exhibition closes Wednesday, April 5. SCAPE gallery is located at 2859 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar. For more information, visit https://scapesite.com. (Pictured: Lawrence Fodor’s “Hydrangea III,” 2021-22 – oil, alkyd resin and linseed oil on canvas, 78 x 52 inches. Mural: pigment printed multiple-exposure digital photography fusion.)
Letters to the Editor
Pacaso’s fractional home ownership meets with issues in other cities similar to those in Newport Beach
Newport Beach made the front page of national news again, this time, you guessed it – over fractional home ownership. It is a bit exciting to make the front page which focuses on our beloved Balboa Island, but it would be better if no controversy were involved. I think by now most of us in Newport know what the excitement is about because our City Council devoted one whole meeting to
a hearing on the issue, while debating whether to expand an existing ordinance that prohibits timeshares in residential zones to also encompass fractional ownership properties. The move if approved by city leaders and the California Coastal Commission, would effectively ban the main company acquiring properties, Pacaso, from doing so for fractional home purposes.
There were many homeowners who attended the City Council meeting and spoke out against the practice of dividing up the ownership of Pacaso-acquired homes. There were also Pacaso owners in the audience who spoke out about how much they liked the idea of sharing the cost of the home, and being able to enjoy Newport Beach for their share of 44 nights a year. But a majority of the homeowners at the meeting were there to urge the City Council and other city leaders to allow no more fractional ownership in Newport Beach. What is to happen to the approximately 11 that exist so far is an unknown at this moment.
Newport Beach residents are not alone in rejecting this new home sharing concept. Palm Springs and Monterey County have sent cease and desist letters to Pacaso, arguing that it is just a “fancy” form of timeshare and should be governed by the same rules, similar to Newport Beach’s stance. Other cities seeking the same restrictions are Carmel, Sonoma and Beverly Hills that just this month expressed the desire to prohibit fractional ownership in the city.
Lynn Lorenz
Newport Beach
South Coast Repertory goes on a cross-country, cross-generational trip with world premiere of Coleman ’72 by Charlie Oh
A cross-country journey that covers much more than miles takes the stage next as South Coast Repertory (SCR Artistic Director David Ivers and Managing Director Paula Tomei) present Coleman ’72 by Charlie Oh. Directed by Chay Yew, the world premiere production runs April 23-May 14 on the Julianne Argyros Stage, as part of the 25th Pacific Playwrights Festival (PPF).
Coleman ’72 wraps up the 2022-23 Julianne Argyros Stage season. It is Oh’s first production at SCR.
Coleman ’72 takes you back to the summer of 1972 through the eyes of three Korean American siblings: Jenn, Michelle and Joey, who pile into the family Buick for an All-American road trip – spontaneously orchestrated by their father. From Milwaukee to Los Angeles and back again, they hit the open plains, stocked with kimchi, banchan and lemon drops, rickety Coleman camper in tow. But Korean parents and American kids hold conflicting ideas of what they’re looking for and the real purpose of their journey comes to light.
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Photo by Nicholas Pilapil/SCR
(L-R) “Coleman ‘72” Playwright Charlie Oh with SCR Artistic Director David Ivers
“I’m beyond excited to share the world premiere of Charlie Oh’s beautiful and complex story about his Korean American family. Charlie is an exceptional writer, a terrific human and we are honored to support his work with this production,” Ivers said.
A recent graduate of The Juilliard School’s Lila Acheson Wallace American Playwrights Program, Oh started writing Coleman ’72 sitting in his parents’ basement in Chicago during the depths of the pandemic. He said it gave him a chance to call aunts, grandparents, cousins and other relatives and listen to their stories.
“This is a story about what it means to be American, what it means to grapple with family that you love, but who also may have hurt you. How do you reconcile the really messy things about your family? How do you come to your senses about your family history?” Oh said.
Oh’s work has been developed at Manhattan Theatre Club, The Lark, Second Stage, Goodman Theatre, the BMI Lehmen Engel Musical Theatre Workshop, NYC Songspace, the American Musical Theater Project, The Brooklyn Generator and Catwalk Writer’s Residency. His play LONG won the Kennedy Center’s Paula Vogel Award in Playwriting, placed second for the Mark Twain Prize for Comedic Playwriting and was a 2019 Honorable Mention selection for the American Playwriting Foundation’s Relentless Award.
Coleman ’72 received the Kennedy Center’s Paul Stephen Lim Playwriting Award.
One of the most accomplished theater directors in the country, Yew returns to SCR to direct Coleman ‘72 eight years after helming the critically acclaimed Cambodian Rock Band. Yew directed Cambodian Rock Band off-Broadway (Signature Theatre), one of 11 New York credits on his resume. Winner of the 2007 Obie Award for his direction of Durango by Julia Cho, Yew’s regional directing credits include productions at most of America’s major regional theaters, including Goodman Theatre, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, American Conservatory Theatre, Berkeley Repertory Theater, Alley Theatre, Huntington Theatre, Kennedy Center, Alley Theatre, Center Theatre Group and the Actors Theatre of Louisville, among others.
Coleman ’72 features Paul Juhn (James), Jessica Ko (Michelle), Jully Lee (Annie), Tess Lina (Jenn) and Ryun Yu (Joey). Lee and Yu return to SCR after appearing in the 2015 production of tokyo fish story. Lee also appeared in Aubergine (2018). Yu played four characters in last spring’s SCR production of Tiger Style!
Coleman ’72 received generous support from The Playwrights Circle, which includes Sandy Segerstrom Daniels, Julie and Robert F. Daley and David Emmes and Paula Tomei.
Tickets are now on sale and range in price from $27-$98, with additional discounts available for educators, seniors and theatergoers ages 25 and under. Tickets may be purchased online at www.scr.org, or by calling 714.708.5555.
For more information, visit www.scr.org.
From the Tar Pit
Newport Harbor Events: April 2023
By Jack Alvino
At Newport Harbor High School (NHHS), the month of April is considered part of the last stretch students must make it through before they can relax for the summer. Given that, April is packed full of activities for current students and even some for future Sailors.
The month starts with the last night of ARREIS, the annual show put on by the NHHS dance program. From March 31-April 5, members of the vocal choir will be in New York, performing at the famous Carnegie Hall! And on April 6, the BRIDGES club will host their annual Mix-It-Up lunch, where students can meet new people during an extended lunch.
In less-fun news, there will be an ACT test on Tuesday, April 4 for students who signed up. On April 5, there will be a virtual presentation during the school day about the dangers of Fentanyl, presented by Newport Harbor’s ASB and TarTV video production program. During lunch that day, ASB will hold an informational meeting about applying for appointed positions in student government.
The first event for incoming ninth grade students will be on the evening of Monday, April 17, in the form of Welcome Aboard, which features presentations from school leaders and tables where students and their families can talk to leaders of various programs, departments and sports teams. On April 18, during school hours, the 8th grade class from Ensign Intermediate School will get to walk over and visit Newport Harbor, so they can see the campus before their freshman year begins. On April 19, ASB will host an informational meeting for incoming 9th graders applying for appointed positions, which will be held at 4 p.m.
This month also features two Battle of the Bay matchups: The boys lacrosse team plays Corona del Mar High School on Friday, April 7, and girls lacrosse will have their match on Thursday, April 20. Both games will be held at CdMHS.
Finally, April comes to a close with an Academic Rally on the 25th (Tuesday). And on Thursday, April 27, the testing season begins for International Baccalaureate exams, with Advanced Placement tests starting on Monday, May 1.
That’s a wrap for Newport Harbor during the month of April. See you all in May for the next slate of events.
March 31-April 5 – Vocal Music in New York
April 1 – Last night of ARREIS dance show
April 4 – ACT test
April 5 – In-Class Rally about dangers of Fentanyl
April 5 – ASB informational meeting for appointed positions (lunch)
April 6 – BRIDGES Mix-It-Up Extended Lunch
April 7 – Boys Lacrosse Battle of the Bay at CdMHS
April 17 – Welcome Aboard Event for incoming 9th graders and families (7 p.m.)
April 18 – Ensign 8th graders visit NHHS
April 19 – ASB informational meeting for incoming 9th graders (4 p.m.)
April 20 – Modified schedule (school ends at 12:40 p.m.)
April 20 – Girls Lacrosse Battle of the Bay at CdMHS
April 21 – Modified schedule (school ends at 12:40 p.m.)
April 25 – Academic Rally
April 27 – IB testing begins
Jack Alvino is News Editor on “The Beacon,” the student-run magazine at Newport Harbor High School.
Former Mayor and General Plan Advisory Chair Nancy Gardner to address housing mandates
Here are the questions and comments being bandied about: How will the state’s housing mandates be incorporated in the City of Newport Beach’s General Plan? The city is currently amending the General Plan to include the 4,845 new housing units, as well as update it to reflect the current resident vision of the city’s future. How will the city do that and maintain the quality of life enjoyed by Newport Beach residents? How will traffic and environmental impacts be addressed in this plan? And, how will your neighborhood be affected?
To find the answers to these and more, the community is invited to come hear former Mayor Nancy Gardner, who also serves as the General Plan Advisory Committee Chair, tell in detail, how her committee will create the city’s new General Plan and incorporate these housing mandates.
Courtesy of Speak Up Newport
Nancy Gardner
There will also be an opportunity to ask Gardner questions and to provide your thoughts to her on what should be done, including written suggestions for her committee to consider.
The meeting will be hosted by Speak Up Newport on Wednesday, April 12, at the Civic Center Community Room. A reception precedes the discussion beginning at 5:15 p.m., with the program following from 6-7 p.m.
There is no registration or cost to attend in person.
There will also be an opportunity to view the program on Zoom, which will require registrations here.
Newport-Mesa Family YMCA to hold Healthy Kids Day on April 29
Parents and kids are invited to Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 29 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Newport-Mesa Family YMCA for a day of fun, free activities that the whole family can enjoy.
Come celebrate kids being kids and give yourself a jump on planning your child’s summer adventures. With summer break just a short time away, now is the time to register for camp, and take your kids out for a day of fun at the YMCA.
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Photos courtesy of Newport-Mesa Family YMCA
Celebrate kids being kids and sign them up for summer camp
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NBPD officers joined in a day of free family fun
Activities include:
–Crafts.
–Bounce house.
–Sports, aquatics and fitness demos of summer programs.
–Sign up for a membership and get a free goodie bag.
–Rotary Club of Newport Beach Sunrise will be hosting a bike safety clinic and handing out free helmets.
–Health & Wellness vendors.
–Healthy food and treats.
Find these special offers only at the event:
–$0 join fee on all new fitness memberships ($99 value).
–$0 registration fee for Summer Day Camps ($75 value).
–Early bird discounts for Specialty camps for $155 (a $20 savings).
–$50 off registration for Adventure Guides Program.
–$25 off registration for Family Guides Program.
–10% off select programs including group swim lessons, youth sports, youth specialty classes (excluding date nights) and personal training.
If you have questions or need more information, https://ymcaoc.org/hkd/.
Newport-Mesa Family YMCA is located at 2300 University Drive, Newport Beach.
Art in the Park returns to Crystal Cove on April 1
Art in the Park returns to Crystal Cove on Saturday, April 1 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Grab your friends and family, and join this day-long celebration of art, music, culture and more.
Explore the Arts & Crafts Bazaar, where you can shop a selection of fine art paintings, candles, sea glass and upcycled jewelry, and painted wood wall hangings created by local artists.
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Courtesy of Crystal Cove Conservancy
Art in the Park is a day of art, music and culture with something for all ages
Vendors include the Crystal Cove State Lifeguard Association, Kim Gordon, Serenity Candles, ReNvinted Jewelry and Art by Kimberly Nicole, Michael O. Smith, Laura Klepfer, Donita Lloyd, Gobind Boyes, Adornament and Sluggy Shug.
Visitors of all ages can celebrate the rich history of Crystal Cove through art. A $15 day-use fee applies. Some events require registration, which can be found here.
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 is thrilled to introduce Lacy, a 3-year-old pit bull mix who is looking for her forever home. Lacy is a sweet-natured dog who adores human attention and loves to snuggle. Her gentle and affectionate personality make her the perfect addition to any loving family. She is always eager to please and enjoys nothing more than spending quality time with her humans. Although she doesn’t particularly enjoy going for walks, Lacy is content to lounge around the house and snuggle up with her loved ones.
Lacy is up to date on all of her vaccinations, has been spayed and is microchipped. If you are looking for a loyal and loving companion, Lacy could be the perfect fit for you. Please contact the Newport Beach Animal Shelter at 949.718.3454, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to set up an appointment. The shelter is open daily from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and appointments are required.
Courtesy of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter
Meet Lacy
In addition, they have a great professional photographer who is donating her time to help the shelter get the best out of their pet guests. They invite you to visit Andrea Domjan’s IG page at @andrea_domjan_photography to see all of her fabulous photography that she shares with the world.
The shelter does require completed application forms for their animals, so simply print one up from their non-profit’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 upon review, they’ll call you to schedule an appointment. If you have any questions, call 949.718.3454.
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.
Save the Date: Jeff Goldblum and the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra coming to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for one night only
Segerstrom Center for the Arts announces the debut of Jeff Goldblum and the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra on Friday, July 21 at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, beginning at 8 p.m. Be it jazz, conversing with crowds, or working with aspiring musicians, Goldblum does it all with a joyful sense of connection and reveling in the moment. Audiences will enjoy a night of classic jazz and improvised comedy with the beloved and gregarious Hollywood star.
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Courtesy of scfta.org
Jeff Goldblum and the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra
With film credits including Jurassic Park, Independence Day, The Fly, The Big Chill, The Grand Budapest Hotel and Thor: Ragnarok; theater performances including The Pillowman, Speed the Plow and Domesticated; the television show The World According to Jeff Goldblum and television appearances including Portlandia, Inside Amy Schumer and Will & Grace, Goldblum also plays jazz with his band, The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra. Whether performing regularly in Los Angeles, or elsewhere, Goldblum will take your questions, ask you trivia questions and play classic jazz.
This performance will feature Goldblum on piano, John Storie on guitar, Alex Frank on bass, Joe Bagg on organ, James King and Scott Gilman on saxophones and Kenny Elliott on drums. Goldblum and the band debuted a new album on March 24 on Decca Records; this will be the band’s third record on this label.
Tickets on sale at www.scfta.org.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa.
Backhausdance returns to Sherman Library & Gardens with Garden Flow 2023
Experience a magical evening in the garden when Backhausdance returns to Sherman Library & Gardens with performances on Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30 at 7:30 p.m.
The evening will begin with a drinks reception on their beautiful patio followed by a stunning dance performance throughout the garden. The dancers will be exploring the garden with their characteristic powerful, athletic dance; emotional storytelling and whimsical, humorous glimpses at the human experience. This dazzling event follows the success of Garden Flow 2021 and will be a sell-out. They only have 200 tickets available for each night, so book early.
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Courtesy of Sherman Library & Gardens
Backhausdance “Garden Flow” returns for two nights to Sherman Library & Gardens
Tickets, VIP packages and sponsorships are available.
–General ticket includes single admission to Garden Flow – one drink coupon for pre-event reception, performance and post-show party, $60 each.
–VIP package includes admission for two to Garden Flow – unlimited beverages at pre-event reception, performance and post-show party, one reserved parking spot and exclusive “Meet and Greet” with the dancers after the show, $300 per package (Limited quantities available).
–VIP sponsor: Underwrite the event and help to bring the finest performing arts to Sherman. Sponsors receive admission for four to Garden Flow – unlimited beverages at pre-event reception, performance and post-show party, one reserved parking spot, exclusive “Meet and Greet’” with the dancers after the show and special naming recognition, $1,500 per sponsorship (Limited quantities available).
For tickets, packages and sponsorships, go here.
In spring 2023, Backhausdance will be creating a site-specific contemporary dance work inspired by a month-long residency in Sherman Gardens. Guests are invited to watch and engage with the dancers as they rehearse during the week then return to watch the final ticketed performances at 7.30 p.m. on Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30.
Backhausdance will also offer a community dance class during their residency. Community members are welcome to come along and learn Backhausdance technique and enjoy moving in the beautiful garden setting. Participants must be able to attend four Thursday mornings at 9.30-11 a.m. on March 30 and April 6, 13 and 20. No dance experience is needed. All participants should be aged 16+. For more information, click here. For questions, contact Catherine Dickinson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Backhausdance, Orange County’s critically acclaimed contemporary dance company, has performed extensively nationwide as well as internationally. Founded in 2003 by choreographer Jennifer Backhaus, the company presents original performances characterized by powerful, athletic dance; emotional dramatic pieces as well as whimsical, humorous glimpses at the human experience. They are particularly interested in responding to new locations and collaborating with other organizations.
Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar. For more information, visit https://thesherman.org.
South Coast Repertory announces the line-up for the 25th Pacific Playwrights Festival
South Coast Repertory (SCR Artistic Director David Ivers and Managing Director Paula Tomei) announces the line-up for the 25th Pacific Playwrights Festival. The highly anticipated showcase of new works, part of the theater’s play development arm – The Lab@SCR – runs May 5-7.
Anchoring the festival are the world-premiere productions of avaaz by Michael Shayan and Coleman ’72 by Charlie Oh. The Silver Anniversary festival includes five staged readings of works by Anika and Britta Johnson and Nick Green (Dr. Silver), Clarence Coo (Chapters of a Floating Life), Bleu Beckford-Burrell (Crasiss), Eleanor Burgess (Galilee, 34) and Noa Gardner (A Small Man).
“The plays in the Pacific Playwrights Festival all have an incredible sense of vision to them this year; it’s a real testament to the playwrights’ singular voices,” PPF Co-Director and Director of The Lab@SCR Andy Knight said. “Each writer has an acute ability to create vivid and dynamic worlds as playgrounds for stories, and those stories – which range from contemporary dramas to reimagined histories – promise to challenge, delight and transport audiences. The mission behind PPF is (and has always been) to showcase the playwright’s imagination and I think this year’s festival really does that. It’s a perfect way to celebrate our 25th PPF.”
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Courtesy of SCR
Pacific Playwrights Festival Co-Director and Director of The Lab@SCR Andy Knight
Three works in the 2023 festival are moving to the next steps of their development. A reading of avaaz was featured in the 2022 Pacific Playwrights Festival. Coleman ’72 was featured as a reading in the 2021 streaming PPF. And an excerpt of Dr. Silver was featured as a Samples from The Lab offering at the 2022 PPF, giving audiences an exclusive sneak peek at the musical in development.
“We are thrilled to be celebrating the 25th anniversary of PPF,” Ivers said. “It’s always an exciting time of year at SCR – prioritizing new plays, new playwrights and gathering with dearest colleagues to share in the process of building a bright and diverse collection of world premiere experiences.”
Prior to the May 6 evening performance of Coleman ‘72, the American Theatre Critics Association (ATCA) will present the Harold and Mimi Steinberg/American Theatre Critics Association New Play Award. One of the most prestigious honors a new play can receive, the Steinberg Award recognizes the best scripts premiering professionally outside of New York City. Recent award winners include Cambodian Rock Band, I & You and Vietgone – plays largely developed, in part, at SCR. Both Cambodian Rock Band and Vietgone became SCR productions.
The weekend also includes a free panel discussion with this year’s festival playwrights on Sunday, May 7 from 9-10 a.m.
“These stories have a wide reach across place and time, speaking to ideas on love and grief, family and belonging, faith and power,” PPF Co-Director and SCR Associate Artistic Director Kim Martin-Cotten said. “This is a season of beautiful and surprising plays from diverse perspectives. It is a slice of stories that will offer our audience a weekend of expansive and nuanced explorations of what it is to wrestle with the conditions of our world.”
The 2023 Pacific Playwrights Festival
–Productions
~avaaz by Michael Shayan and directed by Moritz von Stuelpnagel
April 29-May 27, Segerstrom Stage
About this play: Meet Roya, our fabulous hostess, as she welcomes you into her home to celebrate Nowruz, the Iranian New Year. She’s preparing a feast, but the main attraction is Roya sharing her great American journey from Tehran to “Tehran-geles,” Calif. Get ready for the time of your life with this hilarious and deeply personal tribute to the playwright’s mother, deliciously portrayed by the person who knows her best – her son. Traditions, humor and passionate storytelling transform this tale of family bonds into an unforgettable theater event.
~Coleman ’72 by Charlie Oh and directed by Chay Yew
April 23-May 14, Julianne Argyros Stage
About this play: Jenn, Michelle and Joey look back at the summer of 1972, when their Korean American family piled into the Buick for an All-American road trip – spontaneously orchestrated by their father. From Milwaukee to Los Angeles and back again, they hit the open plains, stocked with kimchi, banchan and lemon drops, rickety Coleman camper in tow. But Korean parents and American kids hold conflicting ideas of what they’re looking for and the real purpose of their journey comes to light. A funny and touching world premiere by an exciting new voice.
Click open story button to continue reading…
Sherman Library & Gardens is seeking high school interns for the summer
Sherman Library & Gardens is looking for a hardworking and motivated high school student to join their Sherman horticulture and education team this summer as a paid intern from June 26-August 10.
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Courtesy of Sherman Library & Gardens
This is a six-week paid in-person internship, open to high school juniors and seniors
You will participate in a varied program of practical garden work, kids’ summer camp activities, field trips and individual projects. While working alongside the Gardens’ horticulturists, educators, garden staff and volunteers, you will gain an insight into careers and opportunities in the fields of landscape architecture, garden design and horticulture by working on practical gardening projects and assisting with events.
This is a six-week paid in-person internship for rising juniors and seniors. Students should show an interest in study or career options in the field of horticulture and/or public gardens. The hours are 20-30 per week and the schedule is somewhat negotiable.
The closing date for applications is Friday, March 31. For more information on how to apply, click here.
Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar. For more information, visit www.thesherman.org.
Save the Date: 28th Annual Balboa Island Parade is scheduled for June 4
The 28th Annual Balboa Island Parade and After-Party featuring The Fabulous Nomads is scheduled for Sunday, June 4, beginning at 11 a.m.
This year’s theme, “Horsin’ Around Island Style,” will have you wearing your best Stetson and polishing your favorite cowboy boots. The parade begins on Marine Avenue with the After-Party following immediately afterward in front of the Balboa Island Fire Station. Jack “Coconuts” Callahan is this year’s Grand Marshal.
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Submitted photo
The colorful Balboa Island Parade as it heads down Marine Avenue always attracts a large crowd
Sponsored by the Balboa Island Improvement Association, this 28-year Island tradition is filled with children on bikes, Island dogs, decorated golf carts and floats, the United States Marine Band, USC Marching Band, horses, decorated vintage cars, the Keystone Cops, drill teams, marching school bands, local dignitaries and much more.
Balboa Island is going Western Island style, so in addition to your cowboy boots and hat, wear your Island shorts and shirts, bring your beach chairs and join a fun-filled family day.
If you would like to participate in the parade, you may also pick up parade registration entry forms at the following Balboa Island locations: Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach, Irvine Ranch Market, Wilma’s Patio and Island Market at the Balboa Ferry. Entries will be accepted through May 20. Awards will be presented at the Pancake Breakfast at the Carroll Beek Community Center on Saturday, June 24.
The bridge closes at 10:45 a.m. so get there early.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts’ Samueli Theater continues its Family Series
Segerstrom Center for the Arts continues a family series of shows as part of their 2022/2023 season programming. The next performance is Grimmz Fairy Tales on April 22 and 23 and the series concludes with Doctor Kaboom: Look Out! Science is Coming! on May 6 and 7. All performances take place on the Samueli Theater stage.
–Grimmz Fairy Tales
Jay and Will Grimmz, the hip-hop fable story dance-pop sensation, have come back home to the city where they grew up to give a concert. They’re known not just for their sounds, but for their powerful storytelling and an inventive remix of familiar classics. The brothers put a modern spin on valuable life lessons in “Snow White and the Seven Shawties,” “Down with Rapunzel,” “Hanzel & Gretel: Lost in the Hood” and their featured first Granny-winning song, “Break, Cinderella, Break!” Pay your bling, hear them sing, and get ready to drop the mic in this unforgettable theatrical experience.
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Courtesy of scfta.org
“Grimmz Fairy Tales” takes the stage on April 22 and 23
Grimmz Fairy Tales is a co-production from Experiential Theater Company and the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Experiential Theater Company, previously at the Center with Journey to Oz and Sunjata Kamalenya, is dedicated to creating high, quality, immersive theater experiences for young audiences where everyone in the room is part of the performance. Children’s Theatre of Charlotte has grown to become one of the top theater and education organizations for young people in the U.S. Nationally recognized for the breadth and strength of its programs, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte provides more than 250,000 experiences for children and families a year.
–Doktor Kaboom: Look Out! Science is Coming!
Nothing says science like KABOOM! Doktor Kaboom is an over-the-top German physicist with an unbridled and contagious passion for science. Sporting chrome goggles, orange lab coat, motorcycle boots and wicked cool hair, Doktor Kaboom travels the world, thrilling adults and children alike with an explosive comedic style that is guaranteed to please. Returning to Segerstrom Center with his original show, the good Doktor will captivate audiences with his hilarious and fun series of increasingly spectacular, and (often)successful, demonstrations of the physical sciences including an homage to Mister Wizard, a tabletop catapult, illusions of the mind and impressive chemical reactions.
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Courtesy of scfta.org
“Doktor Kaboom” concludes the Family Series on May 6 and 7
David Epley, Doktor Kaboom creator and performer, is a native of Charlotte, N.C. and has been fortunate enough to discover two passions in his life. Science, his first, took him to studies at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. His second, performing, became his career, and for 20 years he has made his living writing, performing, and directing original interactive theater across the U.S. and Canada. Epley is thrilled to be able to bring his passions together and honored to share them with you.
All performances include one hour of free, fun activities for families to enjoy together before the show in the Samueli lobby. The Center offers these enriching experiences to provide young people and their families with opportunities to play together creatively, explore the themes and content of the performances and connect with other patrons at the Center. Pre-show activities have included puppet making, drum circles, conducting lessons and even a silent disco.
Tickets for all shows are just $20 and are available at online at www.scfta.org, at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa, or by calling 714.556.2787. For inquiries about group ticket discounts for 10 or more, call the Group Services office at 714.755.0236. All Sunday performances at 1 p.m. are ASL interpreted.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. For more information, visit www.scfta.org.
Newport Beach Film Festival is now accepting entries for 2023
The Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF), sponsored by the City of Newport Beach, is now open for film submissions in all categories. NBFF will celebrate its 24th anniversary with an action-packed line-up of independent and studio films from around the globe. Scheduled to take place October 12-19 throughout Newport Beach and Orange County, the festival will screen an international slate of more than 300 films in eight days, including feature-length narrative, documentary, short, animated and student films.
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Courtesy of NBFF
The 24th Annual Newport Beach Film Festival takes place October 12-19
During its eight-day run, the festival will feature an astounding array of nightly special events including red carpet premieres, gala celebrations, filmmaker receptions, compelling filmmaker Q&A sessions, international spotlights, popular industry seminars, musical performances, fashion shows and retrospectives. The festival will host numerous opportunities to connect with enthusiastic new audiences, fellow filmmakers, film industry professionals, non-profit organizations and members of the media.
Special Programs planned for 2023 NBFF include: Action Sports Film Series; Environmental Film Series; Art, Architecture + Design Film Series; Music Film Series; Family Film Series; Collegiate Showcase; Music Video Showcase; Youth Film Showcase and their free Seminar Series.
Deadline for submissions is Friday, March 31. Submission costs: Feature, $75; Short, $60 and Students, $25 (use the college student submission).
Founded in 1999, the NBFF has evolved into a prestigious multicultural event, attracting more than 53,000 attendees to Orange County.
Get out and explore Buck Gully with three stunning hikes
Taking a hike in the Buck Gully Reserve, which connects Corona del Mar and Newport Coast, is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the cooler 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
–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 Tuesday, March 7 from 8-11:30 a.m., which facilitate exploration of the Buck Gully Reserve, and also provide 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 3 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 Saturday, March 11 from 3-5:30 p.m. The stream is running, and the rich plant and animal life are enjoying the cool, shady canyon making for an evening hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings. Walk along San Joaquin Hills Road, which overlooks Buck Gully for the first mile, then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail, looping back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail. This activity is conducted at a walking pace, approximately 3 miles per hour. The distance is 4 miles; duration, 2.5 hours with moderate difficulty. This hike is open to those 8 years and older. This hike is free, but registration is required. Staging area is the Newport Coast Community Center at 6401 San Joaquin Hills Road. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.
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Several bridges provide vantage points for taking in reserve vistas
–Buck Gully Loop Hikes: Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system on Tuesday, March 21 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 6 miles; duration, 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.
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
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