Fair Game

By TOM JOHNSON

Tomorrow, 78 candidates will compete for a seat in a lifeguard tower come summer

It’ll be fun times on the beachfront tomorrow morning for participants and spectators alike as candidates battling for a 2023 City of Newport Beach Lifeguard Trainee position attempt to qualify.

Those trying out will gather to check in at 8:30 a.m. at the Benjamin M. Carson Lifeguard Headquarters located next to the Newport Pier.

Spectators wishing to view the event should probably arrive by 9 a.m. 

According to Newport Beach Fire Chief Jeff Boyles, there were 82 applicants this year, with 78 of them completing their application process correctly and meeting the minimum qualifications. All 78 have been invited to participate in tomorrow’s tryouts.

One big change for tomorrow’s tryouts that the Chief explained to me. Prior to COVID, all candidates would enter the ocean swim at the same time, battling for position, and as he said, “elbows and feet moving wildly.” I call it flailing. The swimmers would then directly compete against the opposition. No longer.

Now, the department has “adjusted that practice and began using ankle timers so the applicants can enter the water in staggered phases.” The applicants will swim around the jetty located near 28th St. and continue swimming through the Blackies area and south of the Newport Pier. 

Then, once they’re done with that, after a short rest period, they’ll compete in the Run, Swim, Run phase along the shoreline and water south of the Newport Pier.

Of those trying out, approximately 40 will be invited to interviews, depending on staffing needs.

The Chief encourages residents to come out and watch. 

• • •

The Coastal Conservancy meets next Friday, Feb. 3 at the YMCA Camp Surf in Imperial Beach. Item 9 on their agenda is “consideration and potential authorization to disburse up to $685,546 to the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority to develop a Tribal Access and Engagement Plan and update environmental assessments for the Frank and Joan Randall Preserve/Genga (formerly known as Banning Ranch) property in Newport Beach and unincorporated Orange County.

What staff is proposing is the development of a detailed work program, schedule and budget; and, names and qualifications of any contractors to be retained to carry out the project.

The project entails a number of things, including a “serious effort to engage tribes” that historically go back on that land, including a “potential discussion of a land return to the tribes.”

The broader plan includes “habitat restoration, public access, tribal access, tribal stewardship and potentially lower-cost overnight accommodations.”

The 384-acre property is part of the “several thousand-year-old Native American Village known as Genga. Documented evidence shows that indigenous people inhabited Frank and Joan Randall Preserve/Genga property for at least 3,000 years and that the land is sacred to multiple tribes in the region.” 

To find the complete agenda, go here.

• • •

Do you have a vehicle that should be on display at a local car show? If the answer is yes, check this out. The Corona del Mar High School Student Government is hosting its inaugural Car Show in the CdMHS pool parking lot on Sunday, March 26, beginning at 9 a.m.

The contact person is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To enter your car, go to http://bitly.ws/yPQf.

• • •

Assemblymember Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) is doing more than just keeping her new chair warm in Sacramento. This past week she introduced Assembly Bill 276 which she says is “intended to save lives.”

The Bill will prohibit the use of a mobile device while driving for those aged 18-21. Sounds simple enough…but isn’t that already the rule of the land?

Currently in California, motorists under the age of 18 are forbidden from using a mobile device while driving, regardless of whether it is operated in a hands-free capacity. This bill expands the age group of motorists prohibited from using their cell phone while driving. That means NO use of a cell phone, hands-free or not.

“As a mother and grandmother, I know it is imperative that we make our roads safer,” Dixon said. “This bill prioritizes public safety by eliminating a major distraction that seems to impact many young adults while they are driving.”

A 2021 survey by the California Office of Traffic Safety discovered that 74.3% of Californians identified distracted driving as one of their biggest traffic safety concerns on California roadways. The use of a mobile device is a common source of distraction for drivers, particularly teenagers. 

In fact, data shows distraction occurs significantly in drivers ages 15 through 20. Among drivers in this age group involved in fatal crashes, 9% were distracted at the time of the crash. According to the Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA), teen drivers are 1.6 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than older drivers.

To make matters worse, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 30,000 fatalities occur annually in the United States because of a distracted driver.

So, what happens now? Next, AB 276 should be referred to a policy committee in the Assembly and set for a hearing for public input.

• • •

Our friends running the OC Fair & Event Center might be looking for a new trophy cabinet. This past week it was announced that the OC Fair team earned 14 Achievement Awards from the Western Fairs Association, including eight first-place honors. 

The annual program recognizes innovation and excellence among fairs and festivals in the Western U.S. 

OC Fair & Event Center also received four second-place awards, one third-place and an honorable mention. 

Five of the first-place awards were in the photography categories. The top animal photo was also selected as an overall winner and the best entertainment photo also received an award of excellence. Other top photo winners were in the exhibits, community outreach and people at the Fair categories.

First-place honors also went to the OC Fair’s new miniature donkey competition, a television ad for the Fair, and the Heroes Hall speaker series that was part of the Fighting for the Right to Fight exhibit.

Second-place photo awards were received in the carnival and food categories. The OC Fair’s overall marketing campaign and logo also won second-place honors and the Fair’s commemorative poster received a third-place award. An honorable mention was given to a special event logo for the culinary program at the Fair. 

The Western Fairs Association presented the awards last week in Reno, Nev.

• • •

Sunday afternoon (3 p.m.), Mr. Irrelevant, Brock Purdy, will continue his march toward what many would consider an impossible dream in attempting to lead the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl date with destiny on February 12 in Glendale, Ariz.

Purdy, the final draft pick in last year’s NFL Draft, which led to a trip celebrating Irrelevant Week in Newport Beach, has led the Niners to seven straight wins since replacing injured quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. The streak includes two straight playoff victories.

Sunday it’s for the NFC Championship versus the Philadelphia Eagles in the City of Brotherly Love. Whoever wins will move on two weeks later to the Super Bowl where they’ll play the winner of Cincinnati and Kansas City.

And, to be completely honest, the 49ers are not playing with any attempt to hide Purdy and his inexperience. He’s been nothing short of spectacular during the run and, obviously, far more than 31 other teams ever imagined he could.

Go Purdy! Do it for Paul (Salata)!

Council waits on drafting inclusionary housing ordinance, watches impact on neighboring cities

By SARA HALL

During an hour-long study session this week, City Council decided to hold off on drafting an ordinance aimed at requiring housing development projects to include affordable housing units until they get more information on the important issue.

City staff presented an overview of inclusionary housing on Tuesday (Jan. 24). A city ordinance would set minimum requirements for affordable housing units within multi-unit residential development projects. While staff was looking for feedback to start work on a draft ordinance, councilmembers weren’t ready to take that step. Those who commented during the discussion agreed that they need to take some time to conduct more research, gather feedback and carefully consider what kind of ordinance (if any) works for Newport Beach.

The benefit of taking the time to work through this is being able to see how similar ordinances impact other cities, Mayor Pro Tem Will O’Neill said.

“Being able to give them a little bit of runway to figure out how that’s affecting the applications that they’re receiving, and the width and breadth…of the in-lieu fees,” is helpful, he said. 

O’Neill suggested they see how similar plans are actually playing out in other cities before drafting their own ordinance. 

“I’d like to keep gathering information and figure out the right path forward,” he said.

The “wait and see” approach was echoed up and down the dais.

“We do need more time to sort of let this germinate and maybe think through some of the bigger picture (aspects),” agreed Councilmember Robyn Grant.

One missing piece is the next step of practical application, added Councilmember Lauren Kleiman.

Newport is unique, Kleiman added, and they need to fully understand the impact a potential ordinance might have on development in town before moving forward.

There might be other inventive options, Mayor Noah Blom added. 

“This seems like a broad sword on a specific approach that I don’t necessarily think is necessary right now,” he said. 

Councilmember Brad Avery suggested getting input from local developers. 

“It’s important to stay in touch with the development industry as you do this and get a lot of feedback as to what’s doable,” Avery said. “This is a developer’s town, this town was built by developers, essentially, and they all live here still.”

There’s risk involved with doing any kind of development and considering the current economy and cost of building and materials, it’s really tough right now, Avery noted.

“Any developer will tell you they need to see a home run, just on the face of it,” before committing to anything, Avery said. “If we really want to make this work, we’ve got to find a way to sweeten the pot.”

Getting feedback from the experts is a good idea, agreed Councilmember Erik Weigand. This is a lot to swallow for one study session, he said, and it’s a little premature to give feedback for a draft ordinance at this point. 

“I’m not really ready to see anything move forward tonight,” Weigand said and suggested they do more research, gather feedback and return for another study session before a draft gets sent to the Planning Commission.

During public comment, several speakers also reiterated the need for the city to take the time to get it right.

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Photo by Sara Hall

The city is in the process of developing an inclusionary housing program

As directed by Policy Action 1K (Inclusionary Housing Policy) of the city’s recently adopted 2021-2029 Housing Element, the city is in the process of developing an inclusionary housing program and evaluating the financial impacts that a program may have on housing development and the parameters that will make it most effective.

At Tuesday’s meeting, staff was seeking council guidance for framework of the future inclusionary housing program, including the inclusionary housing percentage, applicability of the program and alternatives for compliance.

Principal Planner Jaime Murillo asked for council feedback so staff could start putting pen to paper and draft an ordinance. 

The city hired Keyser Marston Associates to study financial feasibility of an inclusionary ordinance in Newport Beach, explained Community Development Director Seimone Jurjis. The city is unique, he said, considering the land values, geography and current development, and a consulting specialist helped tackle the difficult task. 

“The State of California is mandating massive amounts of affordable housing,” Jurjis said, and, because of that, the city had to put policies in place addressing affordable housing in the recently certified Housing Element. “The state has mandated the opportunities, now they want to mandate the construction and development of affordable housing.”

“We’re not here because we want to be here, we’re here because we’re trying to implement our Housing Element,” he added. 

Inclusionary housing is simply that minimum requirement for affordable housing, Jurjis explained.

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Live…from Newport Beach, it’s Saturday Night Live! Well, sort of…

By GARY SHERWIN

Saturday Night Live has endured a lot of criticisms over the years for skits that many consider unfunny. Others say it has lost its cultural relevancy in the age of TikTok videos despite having a few breakout comedy stars.

Still, I tuned in this past weekend to watch actress Aubrey Plaza guest host.

What does this have to do with Newport Beach? Stay with me.

You see Aubrey was one of the award recipients last October when the Newport Beach Film Festival and Visit Newport Beach hosted its annual HONORS Program at the Balboa Bay Resort. One of the stars of HBO’s buzzy show The White Lotus, she was gracious, funny, and genuinely appreciative of being invited to attend and receive the award.

Another recipient at the same event was actress Kiki Palmer, who hosted SNL last month and starred in the well-received film Nope last summer.

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Courtesy of Visit Newport Beach

Gary Sherwin

Same event and then two SNL hosts within a month of one another.

But wait, it gets better.

At that same event in Newport Beach, there was “Ten Actors to Watch.” Variety magazine co-hosts this award segment where they have 10 up and coming actors come up on stage to be interviewed and then acknowledged as rising stars.

Now two of those people, who many moviegoers do not know or have never heard of before (because they are not yet established) are Kerry Condon, from the film The Banshees of Inisherin and Stephanie Hsu, from Everything Everywhere All At Once, who were announced this week as nominees for “Best Supporting Actress” at this year’s Oscars.

Could this event, held on a Sunday morning during brunch at the Balboa Bay Resort, be a bellwether for the Oscar film race and be a cultural arbiter for the nation’s film industry?

This program last Fall was the fourth time this prestigious event was held in Newport Beach after Variety approached the Film Festival and Visit Newport Beach about co-hosting it which had, prior to that, been in New York.

How many times do you hear that any award show has moved from the Big Apple to Newport Beach?

The Film Festival and Visit Newport Beach had teamed up several years ago to host an award show in London each year which has become a staple of the BAFTAs, which is the equivalent of the British Oscars. Variety joined the event after it was launched and loved the partnership, so they brought one of their biggest U.S. events to town.

But wait again, it gets better.

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In-Conversation Series continues at Segerstrom Center with two inspiring writers

An astounding roster of inspiring individuals continues at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, as part of an exciting new In-Conversation Series.

Coming up is author and comedian Fran Lebowitz, who will speak on February 6, followed by author and historian Erik Larson, appearing on March 6. Both In-Conversation events take place Monday evenings at 8 p.m. in Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Three show packages start at $60.

Both authors bring something unique to share with the audience about their books, what inspires them and how their lives have shaped their art. Each of the speakers will have a celebrity host to facilitate conversation and audience involvement.

–Fran Lebowitz on Monday, Feb. 6 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $29.

In a cultural landscape filled with endless pundits and talking heads, Lebowitz stands out as one of our most insightful social commentators.

Her essays and interviews offer her views on current events and the media – as well as pet peeves including tourists, baggage-claim areas, after-shave lotion, adults who roller skate, children who speak French, or anyone who is unduly tan.

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Photo© by Brigitte Lacombe

Fran Lebowitz

A fixture of the NY art scene since the 1970s, Lebowitz gained fame for her books Metropolitan Life (1978) and Social Studies (1981), which were combined into The Fran Lebowitz Reader in 1994.

A fascinating character in her own right, she has once again captured the public’s imagination with the Netflix docu-series Pretend It’s a City, directed by Martin Scorsese. Come spend an evening with this true American original.

–Erik Larson on Monday, March 6 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $29.

Author and historian Larson is the brilliant mind behind six non-fiction best sellers. Vividly written, meticulously researched gripping narratives have been Larson’s calling card since the breakout success of The Devil in the White City in 2003, which the New York Public Library named one of the 125 most important books of the past 125 years.

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Photo by Nina Subin

Erik Larson

Hailed as “one of America’s greatest storytellers” by NPR, Larson regales us with the captivating stories behind his subjects, how he creates such immersive histories, and what strange and inspiring details show up in the random archive boxes he searches through for a good story.

Rico Gagliano will moderate for Larson. Gagliano is an American journalist, podcaster and radio host. He is best known as the co-host, with Brendan Francis Newnam, of American Public Media’s arts-and-culture radio show and podcast “The Dinner Party Download,” and as a reporter for the public radio business show “Marketplace.” He has served as Senior Story Editor for the Crooked Media podcast “Missing America,” and as co-writer and co-producer of Wondery’s “Jacked: Rise of the New Jack Sound,” hosted by Taraji P. Henson.

Tickets are available for purchase online at www.scfta.org, or at the Box Office, located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, or by calling 714.556.2787. For inquiries about group ticket savings of 10 or more, call the Group Services office at 714.755.0236.

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

Newport Beach Public Library Foundation to screen Five Hundred Summer Stories: A Life in IMAX tomorrow night

The Newport Beach Public Library Foundation (NBPLF) salutes filmmaker Greg MacGillivray and his new memoir Five Hundred Summer Stories: A Life in IMAX on Saturday, Jan. 28 at 7 p.m. in Central Library.

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Courtesy of NBPL

In this vintage photo, Greg MacGillivray (with camera) films surfer Bill Hamilton

Expect an evening of storytelling and celebration. MacGillivray and his team have produced more than 60 adventure films over the past five decades from surf movies to pioneering IMAX documentaries.

The fundraiser is designed to bring audiences the best audio/visual experience in sight and sound for the new Witte Hall and will go to the Technology Fund.

A light supper and other festivities follow MacGillivray’s program in Central Library’s Friends Room. There, Steve Wood and Beth Fitchet Wood, founding members of HONK, will perform.

Tickets are $200 and available here ($135 is a tax-deductible contribution).

Newport Beach Central Library is located at 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach.

Tickets are still on sale at the early bird price for the 49th Annual CdM Home Tour

Anticipation is growing for the 49th Annual CdM Home Tour on Tuesday, March 7 and tickets are still on sale. The early bird $95 ticket price ends on January 31 and tickets are selling fast, so don’t delay!

This is a fun and enjoyable full-day event which includes breakfast; tours of several stunning homes in the Newport Beach/Corona del Mar area; a delicious luncheon, sponsored by Pirch Costa Mesa at the Civic Center; a variety of beautiful boutiques and a fun After-Party. This year’s breakfast and lunch will be catered by Greenleaf.

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Courtesy of CdM Home Tour

The CdM Home Tour offers public viewing of stunning residences throughout Corona del Mar and Newport Beach

“Becoming an underwriter is an exciting way to get involved and provides additional support to the students and school,” said Gina Jaha, CdM Home Tour chair. “One of the perks is an invite to the VIP Party, which will be hosted on Thursday, Feb. 2 by Barclay Butera at his private residence.” All underwriters receive event tickets, name placement in the Resource Guide, name placement on the website, a Neighborhood Ad in the Resource Guide and an exclusive invite to the VIP Party. To experience this exclusive event for yourself, purchase tickets and underwriting packages at www.cdmhometour.com.

The CdM Home Tour will again be presented by Barclay Butera Interiors and VALIA Properties, who are delighted to offer their support, local expertise and ongoing commitment to CdM students.

NBPD dispatch: The thin gold line

By NBPD Senior Dispatcher Brandy Banks

Who are the NBPD dispatchers and what do they do, exactly? They’re the calming voice answering your call for help, making them the first responders from behind the scene, rarely seen but always there. Their role goes beyond answering the phones, though. Often, they’re the ones making the calls. NBPD dispatchers aid officers in the field by calling businesses, running background checks, calling out contractors after hours, calling fire, medics, or tow trucks; and at times, they call the victims and suspects. Dispatch is a 24/7 operation. Each dispatcher works a 12-hour shift, either on day shift or night shift. In 2021, our dispatch center answered a total of 184,379 phone calls and entered 97,176 computer documented events as a result from those phone calls, with 75,505 of them resulting in an officer response within the city. 

To become a dispatcher, certain skills are required (and other skills are later acquired through our extensive training program). It’s no surprise that one required skill is remaining calm and level-headed in stressful situations, but what might come as a surprise is that fast typing skills is not a requirement. Typing at the speed of light will come naturally after some time on the job. All of our dispatchers go through an intensive training program that helps prepare them for all aspects of their role. Though fast typing is not a requirement, part of the application process does include a typing test along with a written test. Upon passing the tests, applicants then proceed on to interviews with a panel made up of two dispatch supervisors and a hiring sergeant. From there, applicants will go through an in-depth background check and possibly move forward to take a physical exam, psychiatric evaluation, and finally, an interview with the Chief of Police. From start to finish, the application process takes almost a year to complete. The dedication to serve our community begins before a job is offered. 

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Courtesy of NBPD

Dispatch is a 24/7 operation. Each dispatcher works a 12-hour shift, either on day shift or night shift.

Once a dispatcher is hired, they enter the thorough training program that lasts almost a year. Since the training program is so intricate, it is taught in phases. Phase 1 is call taking, and that phase lasts about four to five months. This has proven to be the most challenging phase as they are not only learning how to use all of the equipment and how to read all seven screens worth of information, but they also learn to read, write and speak in codes. Trainees learn radio transmission codes, and specific abbreviations (law enforcement loves acronyms!). In addition to basically learning a whole new language, they learn the basics to every single federal, state and city law. It doesn’t stop there – they also study the basics to animal and parking control laws. They are trained to know the difference between civil issues and criminal issues. There are many different systems trainees need to master as well – including Text 911, which came to our department about five years ago. During this phase, they also learn how to control conversations to keep them on track with both sternness and respect utilizing different lines of questioning for a broad range of situations that entail varying levels of stress. While medical and fire 911 calls have specific scripts, police dispatchers don’t get a script. With that in mind, they will also have to learn how to speak to suicidal callers, how to speak to the mentally ill, how to handle difficult or unruly callers and how to track a cell phone when a caller is lost. They also need to learn the geography of the entire city including landmarks and communities. There’s a reason this is the most difficult phase in training.

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On the Harbor: Upcoming regattas to ready for the TransPac and RC racing

By LEN BOSE

Alright, “Boats in the water!” We are on the clock. This is what we hear going into the starting sequence when remote control (RC) sailing. The sailing season is teed up, so let’s head out to the starting line for the 2023 season.

Every odd year is the main event – TransPac, a yacht race to Hawaii. In preparation for this, teams will compete in two big events: Newport Harbor Yacht Club’s Islands and the Cabo race.

The Islands race can smack you upside the head, requiring you to be at the top of your game to start off the season with your new team. Extremely cold, hazardous conditions with large seas and strong winds will test your skill level while rounding the back side of San Clemente Island. All this shakes out your crew quickly, with skippers making the hard decision to substitute crew members going into TransPac.

Our harbor has four very strong teams preparing for this season’s offshore events.

Craig Reynolds sailing his Nelson/Marek 70 Bolt, his boat was at the builder’s for most of the off-season refitting her to make her faster. The Ker 51 Fast Exit II has been continuously upgraded, if the crew can hang on to her, she will be a contender. Speaking of contenders – Steve Sellinger’s Santa Cruz 52 Triumph is the boat to bet on. She too went through a refit during this off-season, so I’m hoping she has kept her team together and I am looking forward to seeing that team on the podium. This will not be easy with two very strong teams shaping up from the Long Beach area. My good friend Dave Clark, sailing his Santa Cruz 70 Grand Illusion is always strong, being one of the best-prepared boats in the fleet. These two teams, Bolt and Grand Illusion will be competing in the most competitive division in this year’s TransPac, with the odds-on favorite being Roy Disney’s Andrews 68 Pyewacket.

Back on the local front, the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club (BCYC), has completed its Hot Rum series with six on-the-harbor races over the last three months. At the time of this writing, the results have not been updated, although 14 boats have entered the series. Standouts in this series have been Dan Rossen’s Problem Child in A fleet, The Rosene Family sailing Radical Departure in B fleet and Bob Wine aboard Carioca in C Fleet. BCYC will be hosting this year’s Harbor 20 MidWinters on February 25 and 26, the Angelman Series on February 11 and the Bogart Race to Catalina on March 18 and 19, one of the best PHRF races of the year. I plan on looking for a boat to sail on for this one, as Catalina will be extra green this year.

The Newport Harbor Yacht Club is carrying the most sail area up going into the sailing season by hoisting the Winter Series for H20s and Lehman 12s, the Islands and Cabo races, along with the Spring Gold Cup for the sabots on March 11 and 12. If that’s not a full boat, let’s add in The Palmer and Baldwin Team racing regattas at the end of March. NHYC sailing director Jess Gerry has installed a pipe berth in his office, because he is going to be on watch for the next two months.

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Courtesy of Len Bose

Remote Control Sailing – the excitement of yachting without the slip fees

Over “across the pond” at Mason Lake in Irvine, the Orange County Model Sailing Club (www.ocmsc.org) hosts four different classes of RC boats – the Volvo 70s and Dragonflite 95 and 65s along with the US1 Meters. On December 10 and 11, the Volvo 70s had their class championships with 15 competitors on the starting line. Looking over the results you will find many familiar names including Jim Sears, Gene Elliot, Chuck Simmons and me, who all belong to local yacht clubs. That’s just the Volvo 70s, because if you own a Volvo 70 you also should have a Dragonflite 95 (DF95s). In the last event of the 2022 season, 18 DF95s showed up. The DF95 is an international class with regattas sailing around the world, attracting many of the world’s best sailors. Locally in our harbor, Sears has made it into the top 15 nationally. Long Beach sailor Mark Golison has made it to the top nationally and into the top 12 globally.

If you are interested in sailing an RC boat, the Volvo 70s will be sailing their MidWinters on Saturday, Feb 12 and the DF95s will be sailing at Mason. One quickly appreciates the nonexistent slip fees with these RC boats. Let’s go sailing!

Sea ya.

~~~~~~~~

Len Bose is a yachting enthusiast, yacht broker and harbor columnist for Stu News Newport.

Letters to the Editor

Why not lights at the Bonita Canyon pickleball courts?

(The following was a letter sent to Honorable Mayor Noah Blom, members of the City Council, City Manager Grace Leung and Recreation & Senior Services Director Sean Levin)

Request

This is a request that the City of Newport Beach install LED lights for the four (4) pickleball courts located at Bonita Canyon Sports Park (BCSP) West/Field 6.

Background

The four pickleball courts at BCSP were constructed in 2017 when pickleball was still a little-known growing sport (Attachment A).

One of the primary concerns of the sport was the amount of sound it created. To address this concern, the courts were not only placed in the far northwest part of the park, but the padded sound barriers were put up on the chain link fencing facing the Port Street residences. Our understanding is that as a matter of practice for all Newport Beach parks courts and fields, lights for the new pickleball courts were not installed due to “light pollution.” A precedent has been established by the Parks Commission to allow lighting of the west soccer fields at BCPC since 2019 (Attachment B).

These mobile lights are over 30 feet tall and directly across One Ford Street [Road] and within 300 feet of the fields.

The Bonita Canyon Pickleheads Club is a community of friendly competitors seeking social camaraderie that has organically coalesced around its mutual love of pickleball. It currently has over 215 members and counting. Its members have taken pride in our courts, such as fabricating an ingenious paddle rack for an orderly rotation of waiting players, clarify court rules and mediate disputes among players, buying a surface squeegee and broom to dry the courts, cleaning up leaves and debris after a storm, welcoming beginner players and newcomers to Newport, and providing lost and found services.

Issue

Pickleball across the nation and certainly in Newport Beach is undeniably a popular participatory sport and builds a positive social community for all ages. It is often cited as the fastest growing sport in America. (Attachment C)

The courts have a tremendous demand for playing time at all times. Often with 16 players on the courts, there are 20 paddles queued up to play (Attachment D). 

The queue gets even worse in the afternoon when Coach Mel has lessons, reducing the number of courts from 4 to 3 and sometimes just 2 courts.

Currently the rules for playing time is from 7 a.m. to dusk, which in the winter means around 5 p.m. and the summer time up to around 9 p.m. Those that work, go to school, or have other obligations during the day, and those that cannot play due to long wait times (often 30-45 minutes between games) are unable to play in the winter after 5 p.m. Extending playing into the evenings may allow for reserved group play, such as round robins or pickleball parties. There are those sensitive to harmful UV rays or susceptible to melanoma who prefer or can only play after sunset. Some players have continued to play on the unlit courts in the twilight hours which can create a dangerous condition for possible injury and potential liability for the city.

With the recent advent of energy efficient and cost-effective LED lights that are highly directional, the issue of “light pollution” is mitigated (Attachment E) and only a soft bloom would be observable over the courts. The nearest Port Street homes are more than 300 feet away (Attachment F).

Sound would be no more of an issue than what is currently occurring in the summer months when we play until 9 p.m. We have reached out to the five residents whose backyard faces the park on the west side of Port Abbey Lane about our request for lights at the pickleball courts.

Fiscal

An electrical contractor has estimated the cost of installing LED court lights would be $75,000. The funding for the lights may come from Park Fees, which also funded the original construction of the courts. Or it may be within the Parks Department maintenance or contingency budget; if not, it could be placed in the FY2023-24 General Fund CIP budget. 

Pay per use meters also could be installed for initial cost recovery and ongoing energy costs.

Conclusion

With the installation of court lights on the pickleball courts, it would allow an existing valuable city asset to extend playing time for so many players during the wintertime by 4 hours per day. BCSP pickleball courts attract players from not only all over south Orange County, but throughout the country since Newport Beach is a tourist destination particularly in the winter months. The community benefits for the healthy enjoyment of its citizens, spreading out playing time, and a potential reduction of crime with a positive activity, are some of the basis for approving this request. The City of Newport Beach is rightfully proud of such a premier public facility, yet missing a key component.

Why let BCSP pickleball courts sit unused during the winter evening hours?

Signed,

Bonita Canyon Pickleheads

Lights at Bonita Canyon pickleball courts would allow more people to play

I live in the Bonita Canyon Community which is a short five-minute skateboard ride to the pickleball courts at Bonita Canyon Sports Park. In the past, if I was not at school or playing a sport, I would spend my time on electronics.

However, since I started playing pickleball, I no longer spend time on electronics. Instead, I spend my weekends and some days after school at the Bonita Canyon Sports Park playing pick-up games with people in my community.

I love that people of all ages, young and old, play together. So many people love playing pickleball that there is usually a line. It is unfortunate that we are forced to stop playing at sunset. 

If Bonita Canyon Sports Park added lights to the courts more people in the community would be able to enjoy the game. I know even my dad would like to go after work if that were an option.

The only courts in Newport Beach that have lights are private clubs that charge a membership fee. I am (asking) the City Council to add lights at Bonita Canyon Sports Park which will benefit all the people of Newport Beach.

Jackson Creamer

Newport Beach

Rouda is back at it and brings with him some strong credentials

Just over two weeks ago, Harley Rouda, former congressman from Orange County, announced that in 2024 he is running for the seat that will be vacated by Katie Porter, in the newly created 47th Congressional District which consists of Newport Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach and Costa Mesa.   

Harley has established a loyal support group in coastal Orange County which dates back to the election of 2018. At the end of his first six months in office, he became the most legislatively productive freshman member of Congress, having introduced 59 legislative measures and getting three bills signed into law. Rouda and his office returned more than $2 million directly to his former district, CA-48 and more than $40 million to Orange County’s businesses.

Harley was in office when the COVID pandemic first hit and consequently brought $554 million back to Orange County to help fight COVID-19. He wrote a bipartisan bill to provide $25,000 to small businesses to update their PPE stock (Personal Protective Equipment) and to create an environment that was both safe for workers and safe to re-open. It is interesting to note that when the COVID-19 pandemic first hit Orange County, Harley stopped his campaign and asked businesses around Orange County to donate tens of thousands of PPE to Orange Coast Medical Center. 

One local newspaper, which rarely recognizes the accomplishments of Democrats, endorsed Harley, explaining that while they had many issues on which they disagreed, Harley Rouda had “proven to be a credible representative of the district, and a supporter of many causes the editorial board cares about strongly.” This endorsement followed on the heels of one he had received from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce honoring him with the Abraham Lincoln Leadership for America Award.

Lynn Lorenz

Newport Beach

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 Tuesdays, Feb. 7 and March 7, 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 Tuesdays Feb. 21 and 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 Saturday, Feb. 11 and 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.

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,” as well as those in need of medical attention.

Rufus is a 10-year-old male orange tabby cat that was surrendered to the Newport Beach Animal Shelter. Shortly after he was surrendered, they realized that he was in need of medical attention. After some tests were run, Rufus was diagnosed with Feline Hypothyroidism. He has been on medication in order to assist, but the medication is no longer working.

Courtesy of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter

Meet Rufus

They need your help to get him the therapy that he needs. Veterinarians believe seeing a specialist, for possible surgery or radioactive iodine treatment, will help him. The cost for treatment is expected to be around $2,500.

If you would like to donate to his cause and become a member of their pack, feel free to reach out to staff members at either 949.718.3454, or through email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You can make a donation at https://fonbas.org/content/Make-a-Gift.html, or to the shelter here. Any donation is greatly appreciated.

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.

School Notes

NMUSD to offer webinar designed to keep students safe on digital platforms

Newport-Mesa Unified School District’s Educational Technology Department will host a virtual parent education program on Raising Responsible Digital Citizens on Wednesday, Feb. 15 from 6-7 p.m.

Topics for the program will include student privacy, social media, monitoring student devices, screentime recommendations and cyberbullying, all designed with keeping your child safe in an online environment.

You may register here, and upon doing so will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

For more information, go to www.nmusd.us/parenteducation.

Local named to Dean’s List at Holy Cross

William Stahl, of Newport Beach, was named to the College of the Holy Cross Fall 2022 Dean’s List.

A member of the Class of 2026, Stahl was named to the Dean’s List for outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of the 2022-23 academic year. To qualify, students must pass four or more letter-graded courses with no failing grades during the semester and earn a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

The College of the Holy Cross, in Worcester, Mass., is among the nation’s leading liberal arts institutions. A highly selective, four-year, exclusively undergraduate college of 3,100 students, Holy Cross is renowned for offering a rigorous, personalized education in the Jesuit, Catholic tradition.

Police Files

Next NBPD Mobile Café planned for Saturday, Feb. 4 at Newport Coffee Company near Newport Pier

On Saturday, Feb. 4, the Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD) will host the next NBPD Mobile Café from 9-11 a.m., at Newport Coffee Company, allowing community members to come together in an informal space to discuss community issues and build relationships.

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A recent gathering of the NBPD Mobile Café, complete with everyone’s favorite police K-9, Goose

The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies or emotional situations. Unfortunately, those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship-building with the community. 

The NBPD Mobile Café allows for relaxed, one-on-one interaction and a unique opportunity for community members to learn more about the department’s work. This is a comfortable setting for asking questions, bringing concerns, or simply getting to know our officers, as these interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.

Newport Coffee Company is located at 104 Mc Fadden Place, near Newport Pier, Newport Beach. Coffee, pastries and conversation will be the order of the day.

ENC to hold Native Plant and Rain Barrel sales

On Saturday, Jan. 28, ENC is holding a Native Plant Sale taking place from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Native plants help save our ecosystems and the bird and insect species that depend on them. Gardens are fast becoming the last refuge for many wildlife species, such as songbirds, butterflies, bees, frogs and other beneficial creatures, that have lost habitat due to human development. Cultivated gardens that offer a rich diversity of native plants offer more resources for wildlife, such as foraging opportunities for birds and other wildlife. ENC members will receive a 10% discount on all plants. To view the list of plants featured at the upcoming plant sale and for more information, go here.

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Achillea millefolium (Common Yarrow) is a native plant that is frequently found in butterfly gardens

Also on Saturday, ENC is having a Rain Barrel Sale from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Make your New Year’s resolution to conserve water in your home, by buying and installing a rain barrel. Rain barrels reduce runoff and pollution, reduce erosion, reduce flooding, reduce sewer backups, save money on water bills, help keep creeks and rivers healthy and raise stormwater awareness. Residents are eligible for a $35 rebate. Barrels are made from recycled plastic food grade barrels. They are $85 plus tax and $20 per barrel is donated to the ENC for the preschool fundraiser. For more information and to pre-purchase rain barrels to ensure availability, go here. For questions, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Conserve water in your home, by buying and installing a rain barrel

The Environmental Nature Center is located at 1601 E. 16th St., Newport Beach. For more information, visit www.encenter.org.

Loungefly, Paul Frank^® and Sugar ‘n Spice frozen bananas…it doesn’t get much better 

In celebration of the launch of its newest Paul Frank^® collection, Loungefly, the fan-forward lifestyle brand from Funko, will be hosting a public fan activation on Saturday, Feb. 11 at the original frozen banana stand, Sugar ‘n Spice, in Newport Beach. The event will feature photo opportunities, including an inflatable 30-foot Julius the Monkey, fans will be able to exclusively check out the nostalgic collection in person, while also enjoying a complimentary Sugar ‘n Spice frozen banana.

The one-day fan event will be at Sugar ‘n Spice, located at 310 Marine Ave., Balboa Island and takes place from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 

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Courtesy of Loungefly

Some of the new collection of the pop-culture icon Paul Frank^® being offered by Loungefly

Available in February will be the highly anticipated collaboration blends of Loungefly’s signature styles with the pop-culture icon’s nostalgic bright colors and quirky design. Featuring Julius the Monkey, the very first collection includes a mini backpack (MSRP: $80), crossbody bag (MSRP: $60) and zip around wallet (MSRP: $40). All items will be exclusively available on www.loungefly.com.

Loungefly intricately designs backpacks, wallets, totes and crossbody bags, apparel, collectible enamel pins and additional accessories to tell wearable stories inspired by the most beloved properties in the world. Crafted with care and precision – leaving no detail overlooked – fans find value in every stitch as bag zippers to custom linings showcase their authentic passion for the fandom that they proudly wear.

You can follow @Loungefly on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok for additional updates on product launches and events.

Newport Beach Film Festival seeks volunteer reviewers, so cinema buffs…here’s your chance

The 2023 Annual Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) takes place October 12-19. NBFF is seeking volunteer reviewers, as they rely on these volunteers to watch and score films they select, which is projected to be more than 2,000 films this year.

The reviewing cycle has begun and continues through July. The NBFF provides a reviewer’s manual and instructions for using the Eventival system, where the films are housed for review.

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Courtesy of NBFF

Volunteer reviewers will watch and score films from the projected 2,000+ available for viewing for the 2023 Newport Beach Film Festival

Being a reviewer allows you to watch and score movies remotely, from any device. They request reviewers watch at least five hours of films per month.

Dorothy Kraus is the NBFF reviewer coordinator, who provides support by email or phone. Once the volunteer application is approved, the reviewer creates a personal Eventival account. From here, films are selected to watch and score.

Scoring criteria includes cinematography, acting, directing, editing, production and story.

Being a volunteer reviewer is important to the overall movie selection process, and as such, the NBFF is thankful for their reviewers’ time and effort. Go to the NBFF website at www.newportbeachfilmfest.com and select “Participant” then “Reviewer.” From there you’re directed to the Eventival Visitor page. Follow the instructions for creating an account and completing your Reviewer Application.

You can also email Dorothy Kraus at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Speak Up Newport’s Mayor’s Dinner set for next month, tickets on sale

Tickets and tables are now on sale for the 41st Annual Speak Up Newport (SUN) Mayor’s Dinner to be held Thursday, Feb. 9 at the VEA Newport Beach. This year’s event will honor 2023 Newport Beach Mayor Noah Blom, who will give his State of the City Address.

Each year, SUN presents the Annual Mayor’s Dinner, which is attended by more than 450 Newport Beach business and community leaders. 

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Courtesy of Speak Up Newport

A highlight of the evening is special recognition of past Newport Beach mayors with the current mayor on the dais

The evening’s Master of Ceremonies will be KCAL 9 and CBS 2 Orange County reporter and Newport Beach resident Michele Gile.

“SUN’s Annual Mayor’s Dinner is an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate friendships and visit with local dignitaries,” said SUN President and former Newport Beach Mayor Edward Selich.

The event also includes special recognition of the city’s past mayors.

The no-host reception will begin at 6 p.m., with dinner following at 7 p.m. Underwriter’s tables of 10 seats sell for $1,750, with single seats priced at $125.

For more information and/or to make reservations, go here. RSVP by January 29.

VEA Newport Beach is located at 900 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach.

Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach displays works by Dottie Siemon, come meet the artist on February 14

Dottie Siemon, 96, a local artist who has lived on Balboa Island for 48 years, took up painting at age 65. Since then, she has attempted to paint everything in her path, including every surface in her home. Her husband used to say, “If you come in the house long enough, you’re gonna get painted.”

Her colorful art can be found on every surface in her home and extends

to note cards, rocks, chairs, tables, cabinet and paintings of friends’ houses.

Soon her hobby became profitable when she sold her paintings for 10-15 years locally at Heart of the Island on Marine Avenue.

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Dottie Siemon standing near her colorful exhibition

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“For the Love of Dottie…” is on display in the Gallery through the beginning of March

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Dottie Siemon (in yellow sweatshirt) painting in the Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach

Balboa Island has benefited from Siemon’s artistry also. Many years ago, she volunteered to paint every clay pot around the perimeter of the Island. With a wagon-load of paint and brushes, and using primary colors, the pots were decorated and signed. Many are still visible today.

On Tuesday, Feb. 14, celebrate Siemon and her artwork during a Sweets and Treats get together at 2 p.m. Come view the colorful exhibition, For the Love of Dottie…at Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach. Her art is being displayed now through the beginning of March.

Balboa Island Museum Newport Beach is located at 210 B Marine Ave., Balboa Island. Museum hours: Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. There is free general admission on all days. Two-hour parking is available on Marine Avenue.

For more information, visit www.balboaislandmuseum.org.

Mix and mingle at CdM Chamber’s new year networking event

Get ready to mix and mingle at the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce Networking Mixer to start off the new year meeting and connecting with new people on Tuesday, Jan. 31 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at SCAPE gallery.

Those attending will have opportunities to network and appreciate the world of art while enjoying a glass of wine and light appetizers.

SCAPE gallery will be displaying a Group Exhibition: New Year | New Paintings, featuring the works of five gallery artists. 

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Courtesy of CdM Chamber of Commerce

“The Hours Between,” oil on canvas, 34 x 24 by artist Sigrid Burton. Her artwork is currently being displayed at SCAPE gallery.

The mixer is free and no RSVP is necessary. Street parking is available.

SCAPE gallery is located at 2859 E. Coast Highway, Corona del Mar. 

For more information, visit www.cdmchamber.com, or call 949.673.4050.

Newport Beach Film Festival now accepting entries for 2023

The Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) is the top luxury lifestyle film festival in the United States and the largest entertainment event in coastal Southern California. Now in its 24th year (October 12-19, 2023), the festival attracts nearly 50,000 people and showcases an action-packed line-up of 300 independent and studio films from more than 55 different countries including feature-length narrative, documentary, short, animated, youth and student films that will compete for a series of Jury, Festival Honors and Audience Awards. 

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Courtesy of NBFF

The 24th Annual Newport Beach Film Festival will take place October 12-19

During its eight-day run, the NBFF 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.

The NBFF has been recognized by Variety as one of the leading film festivals in the world and presented many acclaimed films such as The Good Nurse, The Quiet Girl, All Quiet on the Western Front, The Banshees of Inisherin, and Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. 

Every year, the NBFF celebrates the accomplishments of filmmakers and actors during its Honors. Recent honorees include Ron Howard, Aubrey Plaza, Eddie Redmayne, Anna Diop, Adam Sandler, Paul Fieg, Patton Oswalt, Kerry Condon and Keke Palmer.

Newport Beach is the perfect destination for an international film festival and the NBFF looks forward to screening your film in fall 2023. 

Submit your film now on FilmFreeway.

Capturing iconic Newport Beach and beyond: Lower Trestles 

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Artwork by Don Krotee

One of the iconic things about Newport is its rich culture of surfing. Although each of Newport’s piers and the river jetty have their great breaks (surfing spots), San Onofre State Park, Trestles, Church and Middles has some of the best in the world. However, when the swell and wind are complementary, there’s nothing better than Lower Trestles. The break is accessed along the San Mateo Creek (an ancient settlement) but completely undeveloped. The waves break off a round rocky bottom, shaped into a point configuration, carved in the two El Niño rain torrents in 1982-1983. The painting was a commission by an old surfer and exhibits the perfect offshore winds, perfect shape and morning vantage point of the tall bluff. This scene was painted on 300# Fabriano rough surface paper, 15” x 20” rough finish.

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Don Krotee is a 36-year resident of Newport Beach, a member of the 2000 General Plan Advisory Committee, a Corona del Mar Residents Association member and a board member of SPON. Krotee lives in Corona del Mar, is an architect, a sailor and a fine artist who has been drawing and painting from an early age. He provides “Stu News” color prints of his original drawings and paintings from iconic Newport Beach and around the world.

The Giving Pavilion to showcase charitable organizations during OC Home & Garden Show

The 46th Annual OC Home & Garden Show is returning to the OC Fair & Event Center on February 25-26. As the longest running home show in all of Southern California, producers take great pride in offering the finest home improvement companies in Orange County. The president on the National Landscape Association will be presenting workshops and presenting new water saving products for yard and garden. Features include hourly free DIY workshops from Home Depot, hourly prizes and hands-on activities for all ages.

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Submitted photo

A vendor booth at a previous OC Home & Garden Show

The Giving Pavilion adds to the flavor of this event. Show Producers have created an additional building filled with local charities and nonprofit organizations that serve Orange County communities. This is the premiere event in what will be “The Year of Giving, 2023.” Attendees can learn about groups that aid our area with valuable services, research and support. Guests will have the opportunity to join workshops that teach everything from “How to Start a Charity/Nonprofit” to “Guidelines on Becoming a 501(c)(3)” and “Legal Guidelines for Charities.”

Hours for the Home & Garden Show taking place in the Los Alamitos Building and Anaheim Building are Saturday, Feb. 25 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 26 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free and parking is $2.

For more information, visit www.thebesthomeshow.com.

OC Fair & Event Center is located at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa.

Learn about wolves and coyotes at ENC

Join Skie Bender, Education Outreach Specialist from Wolf Haven International, for a close look at the differences and similarities between wolves, coyotes and other wild canids at the Environmental Nature Center (ENC) on Thursday, Jan. 26 from 7-8 p.m.

Courtesy of ENC

Learn about wolves, coyotes and other wild canids with a Wolf Haven International education outreach specialist

Learn about wolf and coyote biology, behavior, social structure, historical and current ranges, and ecosystem roles. As wild wolves are now naturally recolonizing back into California, the program focuses on hiking and backpacking in wolf country. You’ll also look at how domesticated dogs compare and contrast with these wild canids.

Wolf Haven International, whose mission is “to conserve and protect wolves and their habitat,” is a wolf sanctuary that has rescued and provided a lifetime home for 300 displaced, captive-born animals since 1982. 

Cost: ENC Members are free; Non-member, $5. An optional donation to share between the ENC and Wolf Haven is $5.

To register for this presentation, go here.

The Environmental Nature Center is located at 1601 E. 16th St., Newport Beach. For more information, visit www.encenter.org.

Mean Girls coming to Segerstrom Hall

Mean Girls is coming to Segerstrom Center of the Arts’ Segerstrom Hall on March 7-19. Direct from Broadway, Mean Girls is the hilarious hit musical from an award-winning creative team, including book writer Tina Fey (30 Rock), composer Jeff Richmond (Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), lyricist Nell Benjamin (Legally Blonde) and director Casey Nicholaw (The Book of Mormon).

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Courtesy of scfta.org

Direct from Broadway, the hilarious hit musical, “Mean Girls” comes to Segerstrom Hall on March 7-19

Synopsis: Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Soon, this naïve newbie falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung.

New York Magazine cheers, “Mean Girls delivers with immense energy, a wicked sense of humor and joyful inside-jokery.” USA Today says, “We’ll let you in on a little secret, because we’re such good friends: GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!” Deadline calls it “Vibrant, beautifully sung and visually splendid,” and Vogue says that Mean Girls is “hilarious!” with a cast packed full of expert comedians with fierce voices and acting chops to match.”

Tickets starting at $25 may be purchased here.

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

NBPD Blood Drive scheduled for January 30

The Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD) is holding a Red Cross Blood Drive on Monday, Jan. 30 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at its headquarters located at 870 Santa Barbara Drive, Newport Beach. Appointments are still remaining.

There are two types of donations you can sign up for if you would like to give: Blood and Power Red. Blood is the most common type of donation during which approximately a pint of “whole blood” is given. This usually takes about an hour. Power Red collects the red cells, but returns most of the plasma and platelets to the donor. These donors must meet specific eligibility requirements and have Type A Negative, B Negative, or O blood.

Appointments are required. To schedule your appointment, sign up online at www.redcrossblood.org, or call 1.800.redcross. For more information and to view appointment times, go here.

If you donate blood between now and January 31, you will automatically be entered for a chance to win an exciting trip for you and a guest to Super Bowl LVII in Phoenix, Ariz. This includes travel, hotel, a $500 gift card, pre-game activities and more. Terms apply. For more information, visit www.redcrossblood.org/superbowl.

Newport Beach Public Library presents an evening with Nabil Ayers, author, musician and music industry titan

The Newport Beach Public Library (NBPL) has announced a Meet the Author event with Nabil Ayers, an exceptional storyteller who has written about music and race for publications includingThe New York Times, NPR, Rolling Stone, GQ andThe Root.

Ayers will speak about his new book,My Life in the Sunshine, a memoir about one man’s journey to connect with his musician father, ultimately redefining what family really means on Wednesday, Feb. 1 from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Central Library Friends Room.

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Photos courtesy of NBPL

Nabil Ayers

Book synopsis: In 1971, a white, Jewish, former ballerina, chose to have a child with the famous Black jazz musician Roy Ayers, fully expecting and agreeing that he would not be involved in the child’s life. In this highly original memoir, their son, Nabil Ayers, recounts a life spent living with the aftermath of that decision, and his journey to build an identity of his own despite and in spite of his father’s absence.

My Life in the Sunshineis a five-star rated memoir, an Amazon editor’s pick andOprah Dailypick. 

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Ayers will speak about his new memoir,“My Life in the Sunshine”

Books will be available for purchase and the signing is courtesy of Creating Conversations. Seating is limited for this event due to room capacity. Registration is strongly suggested. To reserve your spot, click here.

Funding is generously provided by Friends of the Library.

Newport Beach Central Library is located at 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach. For more information, visit www.newportbeachlibrary.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