The Bay Window February cover story for 2022 takes us on a visit to some very handsome stables to meet remarkable equestrians and their mounts. Our Style Editor Carole Pickup joins photojournalist Ann Chatillon discovering champion riders sharing a passionate love of their horses. A perfect Valentine story with a focus on another amazing aspect of life on the Orange Riviera captivating many of our members, their extended families, and friends. Pictured on the cover is Giana Massaro on Oliver. Read more on our cover story on pages 16-18.
From the love of horses to the love of chocolate, Bay Window Food Editor Lana Sills goes all out “Calling all chocolate lovers with a warning too: Death by Chocolate!” Fabulous treats for your sweet; chocolate galore. Recipes, unusual surprises, and ides for the most romantic Valentine chocolate experience. Death By Chocolate is our dining cover feature for February. Read all about it on pages 20-21.
We have a special third cover story this month, a preview of the return of the Hoag Classic to Newport Beach Country Club the first week in March 2022. Orange County’s only pro-tournament is back with a $2 million purse to grab the attention of PGA pros and fans alike during the week-long outing on the greens. Our special golf columnist Randy Youngman provides a look ahead at the excitement. Read Youngman’s story on pages 24-26.
On another note, don’t miss the excellent profile interview by writer Matt Morrison on Bay Club Member Willy Reese. If you need a little February inspiration, this is the article to turn to on pages 60-62. The Reese story is one of overcoming odds, mental and physical discipline, and paying forward lessons helping others in need. Role models do exist. Good people matter.
All of this plus all of the important regular insertions from the BBC, NBCC, and Resort Staff from members’ activities to golf tips, yachting stories to dining, recreation, spa, and family events. Find it all in the February issue.
Enjoy the read. Take it all in. Special kudos to our valued regular columnists, Barclay Butera on design, Patrick O’Donnell on travel, Ivan Illán on finance, Alex Chazen on the law, and Ryan Cook on sports and Super Bowl LVI set for February 13th in Los Angeles.
Best, Bruce
A Month Of Music From Every Genre At Segerstrom Center For The Arts
BROADWAY, CABARET, JAZZ, POP AND CLASSICAL OFFERINGS FILL SEGERSTROM CENTER VENUES
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is more than just the spot to see Broadway shows in Orange County – the upcoming calendar is filled with incredible music performances ranging from jazz to chamber music! With several one-night-only shows and intimate performances from some of the finest musicians across multiple genres, Segerstrom Center has so much to offer for every music
lover. Looking for recommendations on where to start? Look no further!
If you loved: Famous musicals like Les Misérables, Chicago, Gypsy and WICKED
You’ll love: Cabaret shows by Caissie Levy and Tony Yazbeck
If you happened to see Flying Over Sunset or Caroline, or Change on Broadway this year, you’ve seen a sneak peek of two upcoming cabaret performers! Caissie Levy’s impressive resume includes iconic roles such as Maureen in RENT, Elsa in Frozen, and Elphaba in WICKED. Performances as Billy Flynn in Chicago, Gabey in On the Town, and Tulsa in Gyspy have established Tony Yazbeck as a quintessential song-and-dance man of Broadway. In February and March, Levy and Yazbeck each have individual cabaret shows that highlight a different side of these prominent performers and their talent!
See Caissie Levy from February 24-26 and Tony Yazbeck from March 24-26 as they perform in Samueli Theater!
If you loved: Veronica Swift and other| up-and-coming jazz musicians
You’ll love: Matthew Whitaker
Names such as Veronica Swift are on
the list of young jazz musicians to watch as their careers continue to skyrocket. Matthew Whitaker is no exception. As a 20-year-old jazz prodigy who’s toured extensively throughout the world, Matthew Whitaker has been taking the jazz world by storm since he opened for Stevie Wonder’s induction into the Apollo Theater Hall of Fame at age 10. With a decade of experience under his belt, Matthew Whitaker is set to make his Center debut on March 27 in Samueli Theater!
If you love: innovative string quartets like the Dover Quartet
You’ll love: Esme Quartet
You’re definitely a big fan adventurous performances that push the boundaries of what chamber music can be. Esme Quartet finds the perfect balance of traditional pieces and new work, performing pieces by Ravel and Beethoven as well as a new work by a Korean composer that includes a traditional Korean string instrument. Esme Quartet brings innovation and creativity to create a beautiful sound that you’re sure to love. With just one performance in Samueli Theater on March 18, you’ll want to scoop up tickets while they’re still available!
Caissie Levy
Matthew Whitaker
Esme Quartet
LOVE LOCAL
Splendor On The Newport Harbor
JIM
GLIDEWELL
SHARES HIS PASSION WITH YACHT SHOGUN
BY JOHN STURGESS
Shogun is more than a magnificent motor yacht. She is a yacht of splendor, and unique in many ways. At a 128-foot length overall with a 26-foot beam, she resides within a slip inside the Balboa Bay Club A-dock Marina.
Custom built in 2002 on the north coast of Washington State in Tacoma by Northcoast Yachts, Shogun is powered by two Caterpillar 1440 horsepower diesel engines for a top cruising speed of 17 knots.
Jim Glidewell, the proud owner, bought Shogun in 2020 when she was located inside a marina on the east coast of Florida. He said, “I purchased the yacht to spend quality time with my family, my wife and five children.”
Jim is a successful dental technology industry entrepreneur and frequently entertains dentists on his yacht who come to Newport from all over the world. The yacht has a capacity to hold up to 80 people onboard.
Jim Glidewell is the Founder and CEO of Glidewell, the world’s largest privately-owned provider of restorative dental solutions. Jim expanded his one-man kitchen table operation in 1970 into a multifaceted technology company now at the forefront of the oral health industry.
He has written and published a new book entitled Constant Change: Adventures in Business and Life – My Journey from Start-Up to 5,000 Employees. You can download the book from Harriman
House at ebooks.harriman-house.com/ constantchange.
With a main deck salon, a pilot house, forward and aft-end decks, and jacuzzi, and a galley, Shogun has five state rooms and four crew’s quarters. Up to seven crew members are required to assist the captain on cruises.
Trevor Mulkey is the ship’s Captain who has over twenty years of experience. Rob Flynn is the Chief Engineer and June Foster is the Chief Stewardess.
Shogun commands a prime berth in the section of the Balboa Bay Club Marina often called “Battleship Row” fronting the Resort Hotel. The Glidewell yacht is clearly a member of the nautical club family.
The Equestrian Lifestyle @ DK Ranch
A VALENTINE LOVE AFFAIR WITH HORSES
BY CAROLE PICKUP / PHOTOS BY ANN CHATILLON
In many years serving on the board for a non-profit organization that aids in the recovery of women addicted to alcohol and other drugs, I discovered the staff set up time during the week to drive the patients to a stable where they could ride horses. That was the first time I realized what an important part animals can play in helping humans physically and mentally during hard times.
Therapeutic horseback riding benefits many suffering from ADD, anxiety, depression, dementia and other mental conditions. Spending time with horses improves mood and reduces stress levels. Just being in the saddle when learning a new skill set improves the brain’s function.
As you read what these lovely women have written about their experiences riding, especially now during this pandemic, you will see the deep affection they have for their horses is truly LOVE.
Enjoy their stories which they share with
us. Due to interest and all who took part in the article, we will be running two editions of their story and pictures. Enjoy!
Editor’s Note:
We are calling this feature a Valentine Love Affair With Horses. It is part one of a twomonth feature on the sport, the lifestyle and the importance of the relationship of man to horse as described in columnist Carole Pickup’s introduction.
In this first article you will meet five women and their horses. Our cover features worldclass rider-jumper Giana Massaro on Oliver. Also in this issue, Devon Martin with Rango and Finn, Kayla Buechner McQuaig with Jimmy, Kayla’s mom Laurie Buechner and Skye, and Julie Sherburne and Kimber.
Coming in March, we will feature Megan Sullivan with Faith and Raven, Ellen Best and Ollie, Kristin Titov with Pickles, Dena Teller and Roy, and Susan Burnside with Sir, and Nancy Cisternelli with Jak.
I’m Giana and I have been vaulting for 9 years. Vaulting is an equestrian discipline popular in Europe. It is dance and gymnastics on the back of a moving horse. I vault competitively and with my team representing the USA, who won the Silver Medal in Le Mans France at the 2021 Junior World Championship.
Like most vaulters, I did not begin with gymnastics before vaulting. As is commonplace in Europe, most people learn how to vault before they learn how to ride.
Oliver is a 14-year-old TrakehnerCanadian Warmblood. He began training and competing in dressage before adding vaulting into his repertoire at age 11. He continues to cross-train in dressage along with his vaulting training. In vaulting, horses cannot compete before the ages of 7 or 8 so he is a prime age for the discipline of Equestrian Vaulting.
Cover Horsewoman Giana Massaro with Oliver
Giana on her horse, Oliver
Devon Martin with Rango and Finn
I’m Devon Martin and I started riding when I was 7 years old, competing from ages 14-19. Then I took a break to go to college, get married and have a family. I started riding again when our daughters wanted to start having horse lessons after many years vacationing at a dude ranch in Montana. A woman that I used to ride with when we were young had become a local horse trainer, so the girls started taking lessons with her. When school sports got busy, I decided to take lessons. That was 13 years ago.
I have shown competitively in Trail, Western, Pleasure, English and Horsemanship. I compete in the select division, which is 50 years old and up. It is one of the most competitive age groups.
From a very young age, I have loved horses. My grandfather, who passed away before I was born, had horses and I feel I got this love from him. I got my first horse at 14. From the moment I started riding, I loved it. Being an equestrian has taught me responsibility, confidence and has been therapy for me. During COVID I was able to ride since
it is outdoors, and we ride more than 6 feet from each other. When I ride, it teaches me to stay in the moment. I am so grateful for the community and culture that we have down at DK Ranch. It truly is a family. My horse Rango is an 11-year-old double registered Quarter horse. He is a bay with 4 white socks. I have had him for 6 years. He has been my primary show horse until last year when I had to retire him due to advanced arthritis in his neck. I was lucky enough to win a world champion title on him before he retired.
Devon with Finn
Kayla with Jimmy
Kayla Buechner McQuaig
Devon with Rango
I now also have Finn, a 4-year-old Quarter horse. He is a bay. He is my new show horse. I have had him for 8 months. He is still very young, but we are learning together.
Kayla Buechner McQuaig and Jimmy
I have been riding for over 26 years and training for over 12 years. I train and show in the AQHA/APHA/PTHA/NSBA/PHBA allaround English and Western Events such as Trail, Western Riding, Hunter Under Saddle, Western Pleasure and Ranch Riding.
Cumulatively I am a nine-time World Champion and I trained under a few professional horsemen and horsewomen up until I was 22. Since then, I have been training on my own as KB Performance Horses. I grew up mostly doing cow horse events and then shifted into the pleasure events and have made a career with the allaround events. I am lucky enough to train out of DK Ranch which is a lovely private facility where I can give my horses the best care possible.
I have two horses. The first one is a mare, Skye Blue Magic who I co-own with my mom Laurie Buechner. My other gelding is Bridled (aka Jimmy) and he is 21. I’ve had Jimmy for 16 years. He was originally my youth show horse from 13-18. When I turned
18, I showed him a little bit as an amateur. When I turned professional at 19, Jimmy’s new job was to be my lesson horse for my training program and to teach other adults and children how to ride and show. Jimmy has taught hundreds of people how to ride and perform in the show ring. As Jimmy is getting older, he has retired from the lessons and is now leased out to one little girl named Tezza. Tezza takes lessons on him and also does some shows. He will hopefully have Tezza leasing and loving on him the rest of his life. He will forever be special to me.
Laurie Buechner and Skye
My name is Laurie Buechner and I have been riding horses on and off for over 40 years. I got my first horse for my 12th birthday. His name was DB. He was stabled at a facility between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar. The facility was nestled up on the hill up against the ocean. Every day I would ride my horse on the beach and out on the trail.
Today I own a beautiful 2009 palomino mare. Her name is Skye Blue Magic. We call her Skye. Skye has traveled all over the states to show competitively in Western and English events. Skye is a 15-time World Champion. She achieved those titles
with my daughter Kayla and her lessons. I ride mostly for leisure and my love is still being out on the trail.
Julie Sherburne and Kimber
I’m Julie Sherburne and I live in Newport Beach. I’m a mom of five sons and I have a 2-year-old granddaughter and a 3-month-old grandson. I’m very involved with my family, friends and church.
I was introduced to Kayla Buechner in May 2018, and I started taking lessons with Jimmy, a handsome gelding at DK Ranch. Needless to say, I fell in love with the horses, Kayla and the entire barn family! One day Kayla asked if I would like to ride Kimber, a beautiful Dapple Grey mare. I ended up leasing Kimber and May 5, 2020 during the pandemic, I purchased her. It was one of the happiest days of my life! A surprise and gift from God and my husband!
Kimber is a PTHA World Champion and NSBA Champion in Trail. Trail and Showmanship are her favorite events. She is triple registered, Quarter Horse, Paint, and Pinto. She has shown in English and Western events. She has quite a personality and is a little sassy at times. She has a beautiful smooth lope and trot.
Julie with Kimber
Laurie with Skye
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VALENTINE DEATH BY CHOCOLATE!
CALLING ALL CHOCOLATE LOVERS
BY LANA SILLS
Love chocolate? Me too. So, what’s your favorite chocolate? Valrhona, Godiva, Ghirardelli, Richart Paris, Jacques Torres or Belgian Chocolate? A rich indulgence that is an important art form like perfume and wine. Indulge the chocoholic in you and yours with these sweet recipe ideas featuring chocolate for Valentine’s Day and the whole month of February!
Make chocolate ganache and create super impressive chocolate truffles (I recommend using Valrhona or Callebaut dark chocolate) shaped into balls and rolled in an assortment of toppings; sprinkles, finely chopped nuts, cocoa powder. Spread ganache over warm crepes, serve it as a dip for pretzels or just use a spoon! In a fancy glass, layer lightly crushed raspberries with crushed meringue cookies, then add more than a drizzle of bittersweet ganache and top with whipped cream. My favorite dessert fondue, which is really liquid ganache, is a classic dark chocolate version, and there are so many different ways to make a dessert fondue! Enjoy the recipe and variations that follow. For family fun, using S’Mores flavored PopTarts, I make S’mores Pop-Tarts S’mores…
sensational, delicious, luscious. Toast a couple of S’mores Pop-Tarts (packed with chocolate and marshmallow flavor with a graham cracker flavored crust), cut them in half, add toasted marshmallows and a Hershey’s chocolate bar between the two halves and enjoy the scrumptious experience! A perfect indulgence!
A really easy thing to do is make chocolate Frozen yogurt…Combine in a blender and purée until smooth: 3 cups plain whole milk Greek yogurt, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder, pinch of salt. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze until it reaches “soft-serve” consistency. This freezes a lot quicker than ice cream. Decrease the sugar if you want tart frozen yogurt. A really lovely sauce for your frozen yogurt…combine butter, chocolate cherry liqueur and a rosemary sprig. This is a melt-your-heart dessert for your Loves.
Belgian chocolate came to the forefront of exquisite chocolate making in the beginning of this century. In 1912, the Belgian chocolate-maker, Jean Neuhaus, invented the first hard chocolate shell, also called coverture, which allowed for smooth fillings and creams inside. This development by Neuhaus led to a new culture of Belgian truffle-making because no longer was the filling required to be relatively firm. With the advent of the hard shell coating, fillings could be of nearly any consistency, ranging from liquid cream, soft caramel, light ganache or creamy whipped praline. Each of these various bases were then further developed with flavorings, such as Cointreau, coffee, chocolate and vanilla to create a unique taste sensation. During the past 100 years, chocolate has been considered a symbol of freedom and friendship.
Do give white chocolate a chance! This delectable and versatile ingredient can carry floral and fruit flavors beautifully, especially in white chocolate truffles. Valrhona’s caramelized blond chocolate, Dulcey, is the perfect addition to your triple chocolate cookie dough (cocoa powder, milk chocolate, bittersweet chocolate)
for a warm, soft, comforting chocolate cookie. There is definitely no better way to eat frozen cherries than bathed in warm white chocolate; my recipe follows. Popping up in ice cream coating, frostings and yogurt creations is the recently launched Ruby Chocolate, the 4th type of chocolate, with its unique pink color.
Skip the box of pudding and make it homemade with this 10-minute Mocha Pot de Crème, the French answer to American pudding. This no-bake version, which whips up in your blender in minutes, is served in a “petite pot” for the best part of the meal: dessert! Chocolate and rum are the key elements, and I like to use Valrhona Bittersweet and Myer’s Dark Rum–a combination that receives nothing but raves!
There is no reason to turn your kitchen into The Great British Bake Off when you did just roast a chicken for dinner. Set out a thoughtful selection of store-bought chocolate snacks like chocolate-covered strawberries, chocolate bars, broken pieces of chocolate, interesting chocolate cookies and British biscuits. And, don’t forget to add the irresistible Pocky chocolate cream covered biscuit sticks. Warning, they are addictive!
The savory side of chocolate…cashew chicken chili with bittersweet chocolate added in at the end of cooking and using chicken thighs and dark beer pump up the many layers of flavor of this easy and satisfying chili. I make wonderful lamb shanks in a Oaxacan red mole sauce with Mexican chocolate that is luscious. Happy to share the recipe with you: Lanacooks@icloud.com. A funny thought… since chocolate comes from cocoa, which is a tree, that makes it a plant, so chocolate is salad!!!
Consider that silky, velvety and soft wines are chocolate’s best friend. For inspiration…white chocolate pairs well with Riesling and Moscato d’Asti; milk chocolate is best with Pinot Noir and Merlot; dark chocolate plays well with Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. But the most important question is, will you be my Valentine? Happy Valentine’s Day.
RECIPES
WARM WHITE CHOCOLATE GANACHE OVER FROZEN BERRIES
A perfect way to say thanks for all the love! An oldie but goodie recipe featured in my Bay Window article in 2016!
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup white chocolate chips
3 cups frozen raspberries, blueberries, cherries and blackberries
1 tablespoon orange liqueur, Cognac or vanilla extract
Bring the heavy cream to a boil. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and whisk until the chocolate melts. Add the liqueur or extract and mix well. Take the fruit out of the freezer about 10 minutes before serving. Divide the mixed fruit into two bowls. Drizzle the warm white chocolate sauce over the top of the berries. Decorate with a sprig of mint.
The berries can be frozen and the chocolate sauce can be made one day ahead.
DARK CHOCOLATE FONDUE
12 ounces chopped dark chocolate
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dippers: pretzels, Rice Krispy treats, marshmallows, vanilla wafers, chocolate chip cookies, brownie bites and the classic choices are fresh fruit like strawberries and cubes of pound cake.
Melt in a fondue pot or use a small container with a tea light candle lit underneath it to provide a little heat to keep the chocolate liquid.
A dessert fondue has so many variations:
*Peanut Butter: Use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate, then swirl in 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter.
*Boozy Fondue: Add a splash of Chambord, Grand Marnier or Sambuca.
*S’Mores: Use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate, then swirl in 1/3 cup marshmallow cream and top with crumbled graham crackers.
*White Chocolate Raspberry: Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate and swirl in raspberry jam.
TEN-MINUTE NO-BAKE MOCHA POT DE CRÈME
1 cup heavy whipping cream
4 ounces 70% dark chocolate, finely
chopped
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder
2 tablespoons dark Rum (or coffee liqueur or bourbon)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sweetened whipped cream and chocolate shavings
Have ready four 4-ounce ramekins or classic pot de crème pots (these are the little cups with lids). The vessels need not be ovenproof as this recipe is no-bake; you can even use espresso cups.
Heat the heavy cream just until boiling. Put the chopped chocolate, sugar and espresso powder into a blender. Pour the hot cream into the blender and blend on medium-high speed until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is frothy and smooth. Add the liqueur and vanilla and blend 10 seconds more.
Skim off the foam from the top of the blender mixture and discard. Pour the mixture into the cups or ramekins, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour or up to three days.
Serve with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
CHOCOLATE GANACHE OVER FROZEN BERRIES
DARK CHOCOLATE FONDUE
Getting To Know D.J. Countess
THE FORMER MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER PLAYER IS A FAMILY MAN
BY ANN CHATILLON
Delvin “D.J.” Countess was born and raised in Sacramento, California. He was a champion athlete, excelling in baseball and soccer. D.J. played soccer professionally for several years. His position on the field was goalkeeper; now he’s a businessman—his position is owner and president of Inklogic. D.J. and his family live in Dover Shores.
AC: What do you fear?
DC: Snakes and Mayonnaise.
AC: When are you most happy?
DC: When I’m with family. Whether it’s my weekly daddy-daughter date with Reagan, watching my little guy, Kade, grow by the day, traveling with my wife, Lauren, or spending time with friends that I consider family; that’s when you’ll find me the happiest.
AC: What’s something you’ll never do again?
DC: Most people say “never say never” but I can confidently say that I will NEVER live in Sacramento again.
AC: Who’s your hero?
DC: Ryan Williams (Olympian, Action Sports Athlete).
AC: What’s your new year’s resolution?
DC: My new year’s resolution this year is perhaps the best one that I’ve ever committed to doing – I resolve to not make a resolution because they never work.
AC: Do you still kick around the soccer ball?
DC: The only time I kick a soccer ball anymore is with my daughter in the backyard. After playing competitively for so many years, it’s actually been quite refreshing to see her and her friends simply having fun playing a game that had so much meaning in my life.
AC: What was the highlight of your professional soccer career?
DC: I was extremely blessed to travel the world playing soccer. I got to see so many things, experience so many cultures and be a part of so many great teams. And that was a highlight for sure, but perhaps the biggest highlight of playing professional soccer was the opportunity I had to represent the United States of America. That’s something that I have a lot of pride in.
AC: What’s your motto, or a saying that you like?
DC: I am a firm believer that it’s not that hard to have fun. I encourage it as much as I can, probably partake in it more
than I should sometimes, and ultimately believe that having fun leads to happiness and happiness leads to positivity and positivity ultimately makes the world a better place!
AC: What food or beverage do you crave at the BBC?
DC: I’m a sucker for a Jalapeño Margarita and have no qualms about drinking Rosé all day!
AC: If you could have lunch with anybody, dead or alive, whom would you chose?
DC: I never got to meet my Grandpa Del, whom I was named after, and I often wonder about the memories that made his life so meaningful. I feel like there’s so much benefit to the wisdom that comes from life and I wish I would have heard some of his lessons. On the other hand, I’d make it a table for three and have Michael Jordan there as well. I have always admired his tenacity, competitiveness and sheer determination. I’m sure there’s a ton of wisdom I could learn from him as well.
AC: Any fun fact we might not know about you?
DC: When I was little, I was attacked by a bear. I punched him in the nose and he ran away. When I tell this story, people say that I’m making it up or that getting attacked by a teddy bear doesn’t count. Unfortunately (for the bear), the story is true. And I walked away unscathed!
The Hoag Classic Returns To Newport Beach Country Club
PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS WILL COMPETE FOR A $2 MILLION PURSE IN 2022
BY RANDY YOUNGMAN
After a one-year hiatus, the Hoag Classic returns to Newport Beach Country Club in March with a tournament-record $2 million purse—an increase of $200,000 from its last PGA Tour Champions event—and a world-class field headlined by World Golf Hall of Famer Ernie Els, the defending 2020 champion.
The pause a year ago was understandable, because Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian, the event’s title sponsor and its primary beneficiary, was at the forefront of fighting the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
As Jeff Purser, longtime executive director of Hoag Charity Sports, explained at the time of the 2021 postponement, “From our perspective, Hoag Hospital’s job is to keep the
community healthy, not to put anybody in position to contract this illness. Even doing something skeletal, a very scaled down event, is not in the best interests of Hoag and not in the best interests of our community, the club and everyone involved.”
A year later, Purser and his operational team are looking forward to welcoming Southern California golf fans back to NBCC to watch the world’s best 50-and-over tour professionals in what has established itself as the crown jewel of the PGA Tour Champions tournament schedule.
Born in 1995 as a Senior PGA Tour event that initially was called the Toshiba Senior Classic and played at Mesa Verde Country Club in Costa Mesa, the tournament moved the next year to Newport Beach Country Club, now the longest-running venue on the Champions tour.
Under the leadership of Purser, who took
over the event in 1998, the tournament has also distinguished itself as one of the tour’s top philanthropic success stories, raising more than $21 million for local charities under the operation of Hoag Charity Sports. In 2000, the tournament became the first senior tour event to raise $1 million for charity in a year, setting the template for success on tour and becoming a business model other events have since emulated.
After 23 years as the Toshiba Classic, Hoag Hospital became the new title sponsor in 2019, when the event was rebranded as the Hoag Classic. This will be the 26th edition of Orange County’s only professional golf tournament.
Despite the recent surge of the COVID-19 Omicron variant, all systems are go for the 2022 tournament. Purser noted that only about 20 percent of the country had been vaccinated last March, compared to 62 percent
being fully vaccinated a year later (including 66 percent in California).
“We’re excited about getting going,” Purser said last month, emphasizing that tournament organizers are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the health and safety of players, sponsors and fans. “We’ve had tremendous support from the community, and everybody is excited about being back. They want to see a professional event in person.”
In retrospect, Purser also realizes how close the Hoag Classic came to being canceled two consecutive years.
On March 8, 2020, the Hoag Classic was the last professional tour event completed before the industry-wide shutdown. After Els rolled in a birdie putt on the par-5 18th hole at NBCC to win by two shots over Fred Couples, Glen Day and Robert Karlsson, it turned out to be the last winning putt in a PGA Toursanctioned event for more than three months.
“That’s right, we were the last putt to drop on a Sunday,” Purser said. “We were beyond lucky.”
A few days later, the PGA Tour suspended all tournament play indefinitely. Shortly thereafter, most public and private courses across the state of California also shut down after Gov. Gavin Newsom issued stay-athome orders for all but essential businesses, to try to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.
When professional golf eventually returned, initially without fans, protocols and regular testing were in place to try to keep everyone safe. Protocols have changed since the vaccine rollout in early 2021, but they are still in place. Hoag Classic tournament staff have been working closely with public health agencies, and all plans for tournament week (March 1-6) are based on PGA Tour Champions protocols that are subject to change if warranted by public health conditions.
“The health and safety of everyone involved with PGA Tour tournaments, as well as the communities in which we play, is paramount,” a tour spokesman said in late December, before the start of the PGA Tour’s “West Coast Swing,” which included two January events in Southern California:
the American Express in La Quinta and the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines.
With “cautious” optimism, Purser is planning for as normal a 2022 tournament as possible with whatever the current health guidelines will be in March. That means grandstands, hospitality tents, galleries at pre-pandemic levels at Newport Beach Country Club, as well as ancillary tournament-week events such as the two pro-ams, “Breakfast with a Champion,” Military Appreciation Day (Saturday, March 5) and Student Day (Sunday, March 6).
“It’s been a great year from a sponsorship standpoint,” Purser said, expressing gratitude that Konica Minolta and City National Bank have returned as presenting sponsors. “It’s going to be a great week, and I anticipate a great field, as usual.”
That starts with Els, a four-time major champion with 19 PGA Tour wins and 47 international titles before his maiden Champions win at the Hoag Classic.
“It always helps to have a legitimate superstar as your champion,” Purser said.
Also expected to be in the field are sixtime Schwab Cup series champion Bernhard Langer, two-time Hoag champion and Newport Beach resident Fred Couples, Dove Canyon resident Paul Goydos and two-time
major champion John Daly.
Phil Mickelson, a 45-time PGA Tour winner who last year at 50 won the PGA Championship to become the oldest major champion in history, had not yet committed to competing in the Hoag Classic as of January, but Purser has been in touch. In 2020-21, Mickelson won four of the six Champions events he entered, including the season-ending Charles Schwab Cup Championship in Phoenix.
Other first-time Hoag possibilities are Jim Furyk, who finished second in the final Schwab Cup standings; Steve Stricker, who might play more Champions events now that his Ryder Cup captain duties are behind him; and David Duval, a former World No. 1 and 13-time PGA Tour winner who turned 50 in November.
Whoever shows up at Newport Beach Country Club, there is likely to be drama and excitement. The Hoag Classic has become known for attracting the best fields and biggest crowds on the Champions tour, as well as for dramatic Sunday finishes—including two nine-hole playoffs, one seven-hole playoff and one five-hole playoff.
Newport Beach Country Club is more than ready to tee up another professional golf event.
Machoskie & Associates
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Katie Machoskie
949.355.9722
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INSIDE THE RARIFIED WORLD OF NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB
Shelton General Manager
The Magic of The Hoag Classic
The Hoag Classic at Newport Beach Country Club draws the greatest players on the PGA TOUR Champions the first weekend in March each year.
The roots of the Hoag Classic start in 1974. Bing Crosby, internationally renowned singer, actor and future World Golf Hall of Fame member, was looking for a place to hold a satellite event for golf professionals who missed the cut at his famous Pebble Beach Pro-Am Tournament in Monterey, California.
In 1975, two Club Members, Marshall Duffield and Charley Hester negotiated a deal for a tournament to benefit Hoag Hospital. Mr. Crosby provided $10,000 in prize money for the first tournament, and in 1975 the first Crosby Southern Pro-Am was held in Newport Beach.
The tournament would see other names including the Newport Classic Pro-Am, The Taco Bell Newport Classic, The Toshiba Classic and evolve into its current name and structure as The Hoag Classic.
In 2000, the tournament became the first PGA TOUR Champions event to raise a total of $1,000,000 for charity. The Hoag Classic now raises $1,000,000 on an annual basis for Hoag Hospital, raising over $20 million since the inception of the tournament for our local hospital that does so much good for our community.
Today, the tournament has become the favorite PGA TOUR Champions event on the schedule for reasons including:
• A well-loved parkland golf course (many courses are bordered by homes and cross roads to holes)
• A beautiful Clubhouse that provides a setting and service not seen at other events
• Newport Beach shopping and fashion so close at Fashion Island
• An easy and convenient airport
• Proximity with limited traffic to a major airport
• Great weather
• First class hotels
I hope this year you’ll continue to enjoy some amazing competition with the greatest past and present players in an event that continues incredible support to such a wonderful hospital that impacts so many people – and sense to improve the magic that is The Hoag Classic.
FAMILIES WERE DELIGHTED BY MEMORABLE MARIONETTES WHEN THIS WHIMSICAL WEEKEND SHOW MADE ITS WAY TO NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB.
Annabelle Connolly high fives puppet
Ava Wilson Hayden high fives puppet
Ford and Grayson Duplex with friends
Cooper, Teddy, Grace and Caroline Liljestrom Katie and Claire Horgan
Puppet show
Having fun at the puppet show
Happy New Year
MEMBERS AND THEIR LOVED ONES GATHERED TOGETHER TO RING IN 2022 IN STYLE AT NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB.
New Year’s Eve table settings
Erin Boatwright and friends
2022 NYE balloon drop
New Year’ Eve entertainment (Swing Band)
Celebrating East-Coast balloon drop
New Year’s Eve dinner
Mr. and Mrs. Martin Dance the night away
Mr. and Mrs. Cassidy
Mr. and Mrs. MacDougall
Alexandra MacDougall and friend
Partnered Poses
IN HONOR OF VALENTINE’S DAY, SPEND THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY PRACTICING YOGA TOGETHER.
BY ASHLEY RYAN / NBBC STAFF MEMBERS SEVERED AS MODELS FOR THIS SHOOT
February, the month of love, has arrived. And those looking to praise their partners this Valentine’s Day have many options on how to showcase that love.
While a candlelit dinner, a box of chocolates, a bouquet of flowers, a glass of wine and alone time all rank high on the list, there are a number of unique ways you can celebrate this year.
One such way is with couple’s yoga poses. “Yoga can be romantic on a deeper level than most people … even realize,” says Bianca Gillett, director of recreation and fittness at Newport Beach Country Club. “If you have ever read the book “The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate,” physical touch is one of the five most common love languages in relationships. This means individuals who are physical touch people connect with their partner, friends and family through
acts that involve physical touch.”
While Gillett says that holding hands, cuddling and warm embraces are all great options for physical touch in a relationship, she adds that yoga is a lesser thought of option that provides the same effect.
Some benefits of yoga include improved strength and flexibility, increased energy levels and better heart health as well as pain relief, stress reduction and relaxation for better sleep. But it can also serve as a tool to enhance intimacy with your partner.
“Yoga—especially partner, like in this article—involves touching, and touching helps us feel closer together and can even help our bodies release oxytocin, which is great for mental health,” Gillett notes. “Even if you aren’t a physical touch person, … connecting and doing an activity like yoga with your partner on Valentine’s Day should only increase the amount of love given and received on that day.”
Read on to learn about some poses you and your partner can practice together this month.
1. Lean On Me
Sit back to back with your partner, with your heads touching, keeping your legs crossed or letting them lay outstretched. If you’re able to, reach back and interlock your arms with your partner’s. Then, have one person bend forward while the other bends back as you make circles with your backs still touching. Rotate in the same direction for six breaths, then switch to the opposite direction for six more. Once the circles are complete, return to the original position for additional relaxation.
2. Up in the Clouds
Sit face to face, where you can look into your partner’s eyes and admire their beauty throughout the pose, with your knees bent and feet/hands on the ground. Match up your soles with your partner’s, pressing the balls of your feet together, then grab each other’s hands (outside of your legs) as you lift your legs and straighten them out. You can make it even more intense by dropping hands and bringing your arms out in front of you to practice keeping balance together.
3. Bending Buddies
One partner starts in child’s pose, with the heels, lower legs and knees resting on the ground and the bottom on the heels. Bent over with your hands into a prayer stance above your head, with elbows on the ground, this partner should relax into the pose. The second partner then sits with their knees bent and bottom on the ground before pushing up on their feet, arching their back over the first partner’s while lengthening their legs, using the heels to hold themself up. Then, reach your arms long over your head and relax into the fullbody stretch for six breaths. After that, the first partner will begin to get up, which will cause the second to slide down to a seated position on the ground. You may then switch places for another six breaths.
4. A Warm Embrace
A hug is a great way to exhibit physical touch, so why not turn it into a yoga pose as well? Stand facing your partner, toes touching as you look into one another’s eyes. Then, come into an embrace. Relax into the caress until you both feel relaxed and comfortable, then take six deep breaths together as your bodies calm down and your stress melts away.
5. Stronger Together
Stand side by side with your partner, then each take your outer foot and place it against the upper thigh of the opposite leg. Rest on the ball of your foot, finding balance, and wrap your inner arms around your partner’s waist for added support. Now, both partners stand tall, drop their shoulders and lift the crown of their heads to the sky. Take six deep breaths together before switching sides.
Up in the Clouds
Bending Buddies
Stronger Together
Romantic Refreshments
THESE DELECTABLE RECIPES ARE THE PERFECT WAY TO SHOW YOUR LOVE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
Celebrate Valentine’s Day—whether with your partner, family or friends—with a dinner prepared right in your own kitchen. These recipes from Markus Hagan, Newport Beach Country Club’s chef de cuisine, offer a touch of romance and a whole lot of love.
Red Beet Tartare
Pomegranate Vinaigrette
1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
1/2 cup sherry vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 small shallot
1½ cups grapeseed oil
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
Beet Tartare
6 medium red beets
3 tablespoons salt
Pomegranate vinaigrette
3 tablespoons ground black pepper
1 quart arugula
6 ounces goat cheese
4 ounces hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
Place beets into a small pot and cover with water. Add salt and simmer for 35 minutes, then strain and let cool. Peel, slice and small dice the beets, then toss with pomegranate vinaigrette (save 2 tablespoons). Add half of the black pepper and a pinch of salt. Toss arugula with remaining vinaigrette, remaining black pepper and a pinch of salt. Place diced beets onto a plate and top with goat cheese, hazelnuts and arugula.
Seared Scallops with English Pea Soubise
English Pea Soubise
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups English peas
1 bunch scallions, chopped
6 garlic cloves
2½ tablespoons kosher salt
1 bunch parsley, destemmed
Place everything except parsley into a small pot. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, then place mixture into blender with parsley and blend until smooth.
Semolina Yukon Potatoes
4 medium Yukon potatoes
2 tablespoons kosher salt
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons semolina
Peel potatoes, then cut them in half and place them into a small pot. Cover with water, add salt and let simmer for 15-17 minutes (when they are close to falling apart, they are done). Strain and place them into a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes, then drizzle olive oil over them and toss lightly. Evenly coat the potatoes with semolina while tossing lightly. Place on a sheet pan and cook at 350°F for 40 minutes. Turn potatoes over using a spatula after 20 minutes. When done, remove from the oven and season with salt.
Crispy Prosciutto
4 large slices prosciutto
Lay prosciutto onto a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Place another sheet pan on top and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until crispy. Set aside to cool.
Blistered Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes
12 heirloom cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Place tomatoes, olive oil and salt into a sauté pan. Turn to medium-high heat and cook until tomatoes are blistered. Remove from pan to cool. Once cool, add zest and juice from the lemon.
Seared Scallops
6 u-10 diver scallops
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
Wash and dry scallops with a paper towel.
Lightly salt them, then drizzle grapeseed oil into a sauté pan on medium-high heat. Once the pan is smoking slightly, place scallops inside. Turn heat down to medium and cook for 1 minute. Turn over and cook for 1 minute. Plate with English pea soubise, Yukon potatoes, crispy prosciutto and heirloom tomatoes.
Chocolate Budino
8 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup cream
1 cup milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 large egg yolks
2 vanilla pods, seeded
Almonds, sliced and toasted, for garnish
Whipped cream, for garnish
Amarena cherries, for garnish
Place chocolate and butter in a bowl and set aside. Then, place cream, milk, brown sugar, cocoa powder, salt, egg yolks and vanilla in a small pot and cook on low-medium heat while whisking for 8-10 minutes (the sauce should coat the back of the spoon once it’s ready). Strain through a fine strainer into the bowl with the chocolate and butter. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir with spatula until incorporated. Pour into dessert glasses or ramekins and let cool in refrigerator for 3 hours before garnishing with almonds, whipped cream and cherries. Serve immediately.
Date Night Drinks
EVERY GOOD MEAL HAS QUALITY DRINK PAIRINGS TO GO ALONG WITH IT.
Strawberry Fields
2 ounces Tito’s Handmade Vodka
1 ounce strawberry simple syrup
1 ounce rose water
1 ounce lemon juice
1 egg white
1 strawberry wedge, for garnish
Combine vodka, simple syrup, rose water, lemon juice and egg white in a shaker tin. Dry shake vigorously, then add ice and shake again. Pour through a strainer into a martini or coupe glass, garnish and enjoy.
Lover’s Sunset
2 ounces Empress 1908 Gin
1 ounce simple syrup
1 ounce lemon juice
1 ounce cranberry juice
Splash of prosecco
Orange moon, for garnish
Edible flower, for garnish
Combine simple syrup, lemon juice and cranberry juice in a shaker tin. Add ice and shake. Strain over ice, then pour prosecco over the mixture. Use a spoon to layer the gin on top of the prosecco. Garnish and enjoy.
Proper Preparation
DISCOVER THE BEST WAYS TO GET READY FOR THIS YEAR’S GOLF SEASON.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
When it comes to golf, it may seem like you’re preparing all year long. But with the start of the new year, it’s important to assess where you are at in your golf game and where you’d like to be. There are various ways to get ready for the season, from setting goals and planning out your practice schedule to upgrading equipment and more.
According to Carlo Borunda, the director of instruction at Newport Beach Country Club,
there are many different reasons to ensure that you’re ready, but the biggest one is so you can progress. “The goal of preparing is to establish a plan for improvement,” he explains. “It should include an evaluation of your equipment [and] your practice habits, and a budget of the time and finances you expect to invest each month.”
Here, Borunda details how you can prepare yourself this year.
BAY WINDOW: What benefits does preparing for your golf season provide?
CARLO BORUNDA: Preparing for the golf season can be a very enjoyable and rewarding experience. A successful plan will allow you to improve but, more importantly, maintain consistency throughout the year.
BW: Do you have any tips for which pieces of equipment need an upgrade?
CB: At least once a year, you should check the quality of your grips. Worn grips will create tension in your hands which is detrimental to how you swing the golf club. The grooves on your wedges should also be evaluated. The grooves of your golf clubs are instrumental in producing backspin of the golf ball. This spin will affect your control of the golf ball on the putting green, which is very useful in producing lower scores. A tour professional will change to new wedges at least once a year. Lastly, your driver should be checked periodically throughout the year for possible adjustments. Most of the newer drivers can be adjusted to help promote the most effective ball flight for control and [to] maximize distance.
BW: And how can golfers figure out what to upgrade to?
CB: The easiest way to get an assessment of your equipment is to ask for advice from your favorite PGA/LPGA golf professional where you play the game. They are the experts when it comes to equipment and technique.
BW: Which aspects of the game should golfers focus on when aiming to improve their skills for the new year ahead?
CB: I would advise most golfers to work on improving their short game and putting skills. The game is always going to depend on your ability to clean up errant shots with these
Grooves that are dull from age or overuse affect your ability to create the necessary backspin for your approach shots to the putting green.
skills. Your short game improvement should focus on distance and trajectory control with your wedges for pitch shots. Next, you should work on the basic motion and club selection for chipping. I like to develop this skill by practicing with a 4-hybrid, 8-iron, pitching wedge and sand wedge. For putting, I work on putts inside of 5 feet. I also recommend that you spend time trying to two-putt from longer distances on the practice green.
BW: What are some ways that golfers can work on improving these skills?
CB: The best way to improve is by taking some regular lessons from a PGA/LPGA golf professional. You will need their trained eye and overall expertise to help you make lasting improvements. It’s important to stay consistent with your sessions and patient with the process. Changing technique and how you play is not easy, but is well worth the effort once you reach your goals.
BW: Are there any fundamentals that golfers should revisit this time of year?
CB: I like what one of my students recently shared from a book about Jack Nicklaus and his coach, Jack Grout. At the beginning of each year, they reviewed the fundamentals of Mr. Nicklaus’ basic setup. They made sure he was confident in his posture, grip and
alignment before they began to work on his actual swing. I can’t agree more with this plan.
BW: What tips do you have for planning a practice schedule for 2022?
CB: Similar to how you would treat an exercise plan, your practice schedule should help you reach your goals for specific skills and then maintain those skills for the rest of the year. An effective schedule will include the time you can devote each day and week. Make sure to specify the skills you plan on practicing during that time.
BW: What things should be included in a new practice schedule?
CB: Each session should include time to stretch and organize your thoughts. This should take about 10 minutes before you make your first swing. Bring some water and something to keep notes on after you practice each skill. Sometimes you won’t have much to write and other times you will be able to record valuable swing thoughts that can make a real difference the next time you play.
BW: Do you recommend that golfers set any goals for the season ahead?
CB: Improvements to your equipment, golf swing and, ultimately, lowering your
handicap are all worthy goals. With today’s technology, you can track your improvement in several different ways. At the beginning of each year, manufacturers unveil the latest in their line of golf clubs. Make sure to visit at least one [of] the demo days held at your local golf course or practice facility. [Additionally,] use your smartphone to take a few videos of your golf swing before you start your lesson and practice program. This will help you to visually see the improvements in your technique. Registering for a handicap through the USGA will allow you to track the progress to your scores.
BW: Are there any major changes for 2022 that NBCC golfers should be aware of?
CB: NBCC continues to make improvements to the golf course each year. Recently, we added several beautification areas around the golf course. These areas are played as ground under repair, which allows the golfer to move their golf ball, without penalty, to the nearest point of relief, no closer to the hole.
BW: Anything else to add?
CB: I can’t stress enough the importance of including a balanced fitness and nutrition plan in your efforts to improve as a golfer. Stay healthy!
Taking a lesson is a great way to review the fundamentals and develop the skills that will help you improve.
Worn out grips create too much tension in your hands, which will affect your ability to generate club head speed.
Danielle Sayer Membership Manager
Hello Members!
It is February and love is in the air at Newport Beach Country Club!
Whether you choose to celebrate with friends and family or that special someone, we have an array of social opportunities this month so you can enjoy time with the ones you love.
NBCC’s cotillion returns Feb. 1 and with it comes the excitement of dressing up, socializing with schoolmates and dancing the night away. This month highlights neck tying and the lively Latin American rhythm of the merengue. Olé!
What’s savory and sweet and filled with Champagne? Galentine’s Day! Ladies, gather your gals on Feb. 9 and celebrate your sisters from other mothers and misters. Great food, sweet treats and plenty of bubbly are a wonderful way to let your besties know how much you care.
Dim the lights, burn the candles and cue the romance: Valentine’s Day is landing early this year. Our annual Valentine’s Day dinner will be celebrated on Friday, Feb. 11. Join us for an evening of culinary amor, complete with a thoughtfully curated menu and optional wine pairings by NBCC’s talented chef and sommelier, Graeme Blair. How can this evening get even better? By offering Date Night of course! Moms and dads, sign up the little ones, drop them off in their pajamas and enjoy a romantic evening together. Reservations for dinner as well as Date Night are available online.
Super Bowl Sunday is BACK at NBCC. Stop in with your friends and cheer on your favorite team with us. Tailgate classics, drinks, games, prizes, NFL football and so much more are all part of the lineup for this beloved American tradition. TOUCHDOWN!
And let’s not forget Movie Night! What happens when Drac and his monster pals are all transformed into humans and Jonny becomes a monster? Join us at the club on Feb. 25 to find out. This month’s featured film is “Hotel Transylvania: Transformania.”
See you at the club!
Please help us welcome the following new members to the NBCC family:
THE CHAN YANG FAMILY
Greg is a fourth generation Californian who was raised in the Bay Area and owns his own digital marketing company. Magi is an attorney as well as the finance commissioner for the City of Irvine. They have two kids—one named after Greg’s alma mater, USC (Troy Chan) and another for Magi’s law school, Santa Clara University School of Law (Clara Chan). Troy and Clara attend Harbor Day School. The Chan Yangs are very excited to meet everyone here at NBCC.
THE MANFRED FAMILY
Brian is a medical device sales manager with Intuitive Surgical, and Lauren is an orthodontist with a private practice in Fountain Valley. The couple has two sons, Reid, 8, and Hayes, 5, who attend Harbor Day School. The Manfred family resides in Corona del Mar, and loves calling Southern California home.
THE ZAROFF FAMILY
Howie and Elizabeth, who are Corona del Mar residents, are delighted to add NBCC members and staff into the Zaroff family’s daily lifestyle goals of community strength, fitness and golf. Howie is the vice president/general manager of the Enterprise Holdings car rental agency, with an honored 35-year career. Elizabeth is a commercial and residential interior designer who enjoys all outdoor fitness and organizing fun activities for their three daughters, their son and their two Aussiedoodles.
A Warm Welcome
FELIX MEJIA, A LONG-TIME EMPLOYEE OF NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB CURRENTLY SERVING AS BANQUET CAPTAIN, STRIVES TO MAKE SURE EACH EVENT GUEST LEAVES WITH A SMILE.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
It’s been four years since Felix Mejia was promoted to banquet captain at Newport Beach Country Club— which sounds like a while, until you learn that he has actually been working at the property for almost 19 years.
“I really love it here—I love what I do,” Mejia says. “I’m so thankful for where I am. Every day, I try to do my best when I’m here.”
Before arriving at NBCC, Mejia was a dishawasher and prep cook at a Chinese restaurant in Irvine. But, once getting hired here, he wore many hats, working in a number of positions, including barback, busser, server and bartender before leading the charge for the club’s private banquets. In addition,
in the slower months, when the pandemic has made it difficult for large events to take place, Mejia has transitioned to a food and beverage supervisor at both the men’s grill and the Seahorse Grille.
But it’s the private events where his heart really lies. “Every [event], I have a good conversation with my team,” Mejia notes. “I inject what I would like to achieve and tell them to do the best they can every single time. I tell them that, today, we have the opportunity to make sure these people here during the event have the best experience we can provide. I would like them to go home with a smile. … What we do for a living, it’s good.”
In addition to providing the best possible service during each and every banquet, Mejia is in charge of preparing for the event and ensuring everything is ready to go a half hour before it starts. He handles everything from placing silverware and folding napkins to verifying that everything promised in the event contract is being fulfilled by him and his team. He also allocates tasks to his staff to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. “We get together, we talk about it and then we go and execute,” he adds.
These events have opened up a new world for Mejia, allowing him to meet and provide exceptional service for people that he never imagined he would meet, from senators and professional athletic coaches to actors and musicians. “Every day, it’s fun for me to be here,” he explains. “You put the best smile on your face. You don’t need to show what’s going on behind you; all you need is to give those members and guests a warm welcome, make a connection with them.”
And while he enjoys every moment, Mejia says there are sometimes challenges to overcome. “The hardest thing is when you don’t have the tools to be successful,” he says. “But we have to make it work. … Do it differently. Make it happen.”
Outside of work, Mejia enjoys spending time with his wife and his two children. He also plays soccer twice a week. “It keeps me in good shape,” he says. His passion for the sport is something he shares with his children, who both play as well. “We play together. We train sometimes together,” Mejia explains. “I teach them what I know about the sport.”
“My wife too—we love to have a good time,” he adds. “Not everything [is about] work. We like to enjoy special moments with the family.”
THE HOST OF THE COAST IN NEWPORT BEACH SINCE 1948
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Bill Blaine, Michelle Barto, Bruce Cook, Cory Cosenza, Mike Granja, Noel Hamilton, Wayne Harvey, R.J. King, Kory Kramer, Mark Larson, Kevin Martin, Joe Moody, James Papazis, Richard H. Pickup, Todd Pickup, Jane Rivera, Ryan Tomalas, John Wortmann, Jack Wright, Dr. Daniel Yanni
HONORARY GOVERNORS
Douglas K. Ammerman, David Banta, Richard Bertea, Robert C. Clay, James Doti, Richard Hausman, Robert W. Howard, Michael Nevell, Michael D. Stephens, Herbert Sutton, Catherine Thyen, Ethan Wayne, David C. Wooten,
HONORARY GOVERNORS DECEASED
William C. Adams, Harold Ayres, Harry Axene, Joey Bishop, Guy Claire, Nick Doolin, Arden Flamson, George Gaudin, Senator Barry Goldwater, Dr. Frederick Grazer, Robert Guggenheim, Sam Gurley Jr., William Hadley, Gavin Herbert Sr., Clement Hirsch, Mary Lou Hornsby, Norman Kendall, John Killefer, Robert Lynch, Roger Miller, Richard Nabers, John J. McNaughton, R.J. Marshall, Arlis B. Parkhurst, Theodore Robins Jr., Jim Slemons, E. Morris Smith, W. Reed Sprinkel, John Wayne, Dorothy Yardley
Leticia Rice General Manager
Balboa Bay Club
Dear BBC Members,
As we move into February and begin the transition from winter to spring, I am so excited for all that we have in store for our members and their guests. As the days slowly get longer and the weather starts to warm up, we look forward to welcoming you at the club. Since this is the month of love, may I recommend that you take this opportunity to remind yourselves of all the things that made you fall in love with the club?
Sign your little ones in to our Kid’s Club while you enjoy a robust workout session or a little alone time by the pool. Make a date with your bestie and enjoy a day of pampering at the spa. Make it a date night or fun night out with friends and enjoy dinner at Members Grill or Sunday Brunch in our beautifully renovated event space, Lighthouse! Make plans to take out a Duffy with friends or enjoy a sunset cruise with that special someone. Whatever your choice we are here to serve you and ensure you enjoy your Balboa Bay Club experience.
As always Members Grill will be ready to help you celebrate and enjoy Super Bowl Sunday on February 13th and provide a fun night out with that special someone on Valentine’s Day, February 14th! For all our golf lovers don’t forget to watch your email blast for your invitation to join us on the 14th green as we welcome back the Hoag Classic to Newport Beach Country Club March 4 – 6, 2022!
Leticia
February Calendar
[ BALBOA BAY PREVIEWS ]
BBC Member Events – February 2022
BY YOUR MEMBER EVENTS DYNAMIC DUO – AARON TRENT AND MELANIE HERTRICK
BBC’S “ALL YOU CAN EAT” FIESTA TACO TUESDAYS
EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT • 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
MEMBERS GRILL
Come enjoy Chef Jacob’s delicious Menu Items! Taco Man Station featuring: Carne Asada, Chicken or Fish Tacos, Seafood Ceviche, Tijuana Caesar Salad, Enchiladas, Dessert Station and more. Plus, Margarita Specials and live Mariachi music, performed just for you. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
PRIME RIB THURSDAYS
EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT • 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
MEMBERS GRILL
A Member favorite continues! Join us every Thursday for Chef Jacob’s 3-course Prime Rib Dinner. A Petite Classic Caesar, followed by a 12 oz. Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Yukon Mashed Potatoes, Creamed Yellow Corn, Au Jus and Horseradish Crème, fresh Bread Rolls, finishing with Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding, Bourbon Sauce and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
WEEKEND BRUNCH
EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY • 9:00 AM –2:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Enjoy Chef Jacob’s fabulous Brunch on the Bay. All of your favorite specialty items including Avocado Toast, Eggs Benedict, Huevos Steak Rancheros and Crispy Fried Chicken ‘n’ Waffles. Kids will love Captain Crunch French toast, delicious Belgian Waffles, and Buttermilk Pancakes hot off the griddle! Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
EXPERIENCE “A LITTLE ITALY” AT THE CLUB
EVERY SUNDAY NIGHT • 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
MEMBERS GRILL
Join us in Members Grill for our delicious Italian dinner night. Chef Jacob’s Italian Classics Menu will include savory Italian favorites you are sure to love. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
VALENTINE’S MOVIE NIGHT BUCKET!
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11 (AVAILABLE FOR PICKUP BETWEEN 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Gather your family for a movie night at home with your very own pre-made Movie Night Bucket. This month will feature a special Valentine’s Theme. The kids will love it. Order your Family Movie Night Bucket today by calling the Club Desk at 949.630.4120. Supplies are limited, so please call early to reserve yours. Movie Night Buckets are for Members only, compliments of your Club. One bucket per family please.
SUPER BOWL SUNDAY LVI
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13 • 3:30 PM
MEMBERS GRILL
Join us for one of the most exciting sporting events of the year! Super Bowl prizes and giveaways for every Member! But wait, it keeps getting better! Top that off with Super food items and Super drink specials, available throughout the game! Now that’s how to celebrate Super Bowl Sunday. For reservations, please call 949.630.4290.
VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER AT THE CLUB
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14 • 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
MEMBERS GRILL
Bring your sweetheart for a romantic dinner at the Club. In addition to our Members Grill Dinner Menu, Executive Chef Jacob is also offering Members a special Valentine’s Day dinner menu of Chateaubriand for two, finished with a decadent dessert and a Champagne toast. Seating is limited. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290. 48-hour cancellation policy of $25 per person applies.
SWEETHEART BINGO NIGHT
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 16 • 6:00 PM
BAY VIEW ROOM
Join us at the Club for another exciting night of Bingo with a Valentine’s Day theme. A perfect night out to play Bingo with the family. Join us for great snacks, Bingo prizes and lots of fun. 6-cards max per person. It is a sweetheart of a deal! A Members only event. No walk-ins. Guest policy in effect. 48-hour cancellation policy in effect. For reservations, please call 949.630.4120.
MOVIE NIGHT BUCKET
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25 (AVAILABLE FOR PICK-UP BETWEEN 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Gather the family for a Friday Night Movie at home. RSVP for one of our pre-made Popcorn Buckets and Candy so all you have to do is pick the movie, pop the corn and enjoy with the kids. Order your Family Movie Night Bucket today by calling the Club Desk at 949.630.4120. Supplies are limited, so please call early to reserve yours. Movie Night Buckets are for Members only, compliments of your Club. One bucket per family please.
LADIES BUNCO NIGHT
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28 • 5:30 – 7:30 PM
LIBRARY
Join us again for the fast-paced dice game of Bunco. House wine and snacks included. Bring $12 cash for game buy-in, all monies awarded at the end of the games. Even the biggest loser can come home the biggest winner! Space is limited. A Members only event. 48-hour cancellation policy in effect. Reservations required, please call 949.630.4120.
BBC Member Events March 2022
“FAT TACO TUESDAY”
TUESDAY, MARCH 1 • 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM •
MEMBERS GRILL
Celebrate Mardi Gras with New Orleans drink specials and Chef Jacob’s Cajun style food additions to our already popular “All You Can Eat” Taco Night. Put on your masks and come celebrate Fat Tuesday, with everyone’s favorite Taco Tuesday! Chef’s menu will vary slightly to make this a special night, presented BBC Mardi Gras Style! (Pricing may vary from our regular Fiesta Tuesday Night offering).Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
PRIME RIB THURSDAYS
EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT • 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM •
MEMBERS GRILL
A Member favorite continues! Join us every Thursday for Chef Jacob’s 3-course Prime Rib Dinner, starting with a Petite Classic Caesar, followed by a 12 oz. Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Yukon Mashed Potatoes, Creamed Yellow Corn, Au Jus and Horseradish Crème, fresh Bread Rolls,
finishing with Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding, Bourbon Sauce and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
WEEKEND BRUNCH
EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY • 9:00 AM –2:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Enjoy Chef Jacob’s fabulous Brunch on the Bay. All of your favorite specialty items including Avocado Toast, Eggs Benedict, Huevos Steak Rancheros and Crispy Fried Chicken ‘n’ Waffles. Kids will love Captain Crunch French toast, delicious Belgian Waffles, and Buttermilk Pancakes hot off the griddle! Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
EXPERIENCE “A LITTLE ITALY” AT THE CLUB
EVERY SUNDAY NIGHT • 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Join us in Members Grill for our delicious Italian dinner night. Chef Jacob’s Italian Classics Menu will include savory Italian favorites you are sure to
love. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
BBC’S “ALL YOU CAN EAT” FIESTA TACO
TUESDAYS
EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT • 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
MEMBERS GRILL
Come enjoy Chef Jacob’s delicious Menu Items! Taco Man Station featuring: Carne Asada, Chicken or Fish Tacos, Seafood Ceviche, Tijuana Caesar Salad, Enchiladas, Dessert Station and more. Plus, Margarita Specials and live Mariachi music, performed just for you. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
ST. PATTY’S FAMILY BINGO
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9 • 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM BAY VIEW ROOM
Come catch the luck of the Irish with a full hour of festive, fast-paced Bingo games and great gift-card prizes. Snacks and beverage service will be available. Seating is limited. A Members only event. No walk-ins. Guest policy in effect. 48-hour cancellation policy. Reservations required by calling the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
LADIES BUNCO NIGHT
MONDAY, MARCH 14 • 5:30 – 7:30 PM LIBRARY
Make reservations quickly to join us for the fast-paced dice game of Bunco. This event sells out quickly. House wine and snacks included. Bring $12 cash for game buy-in,
all monies awarded at the end of the games. Even the biggest loser can come home the biggest winner! Space is limited. A Members only event. 48-hour cancellation policy in effect. Reservations required, please call 949.630.4120.
MARCH MOVIE NIGHT BUCKETS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16 (AVAILABLE FOR PICK-UP AT THE CLUB DESK BETWEEN 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
If you miss National Popcorn Lovers Day on March 10, there is still time to have fun with popcorn. Reserve your BBC Movie Night Bucket, complete with a St. Patrick’s Day Theme! Gather your family for another fun movie night at home. Order your Family Movie Night Bucket today by calling the Club Desk at 949.630.4120. Movie Night Buckets are compliments of your Club. One bucket per family please.
CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY AT MEMBERS GRILL
THURSDAY, MARCH 17 • BEGINNING AT 11:00 AM • MEMBERS GRILL
We are serving up Chef Jacob’s delicious St. Patty’s Corned Beef Menu Special for Lunch and Dinner! Enjoy great Beer and Irish Whiskey specials throughout the day. Erin go bragh! Ask your server for details. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949-630.4290. 48-hour cancellation policy in effect.
MOMMY AND ME PRINCESS FAIRYTALE TEA
SATURDAY, MARCH 19 • 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM BAY VIEW ROOM
Enjoy Chef’s un-traditional tea sandwiches and sweets, served with princess juice for the kids. Hear enchanting stories from every child’s favorite princesses, take pictures with our special guests and children will enjoy making their very own magical crafts. Adult and Child pricing, Adults includes house Champagne. A Members only event. Guest Policy in effect. No walk-ins. Reservations are required by calling 949.630.4120. 72-hour cancellation policy.
OSCAR NIGHT AT THE CLUB
SUNDAY, MARCH 27 • BEGINNING AT 3:30 PM MEMBERS GRILL
Join us in the lounge for the 94th Annual Academy Awards. Enter on the Red Carpet to enjoy complimentary appetizers and great cocktail specials. Grab yourself a ballot and fill it out by 5 pm to compete against fellow Members to win great prizes! For more information or reservations, please call 949.630.4290.
FIRE PITS ON THE BAY – MEMBER BEACH
Fire Pits on the beach are now available daily from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm with a reservation. Maximum party size of 6 Members, per fire pit. Fire Pits are complimentary. Members only, no Guests. 24hour cancellation and no-show policy of $50 in effect. For reservations, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
Preparing For That Special Day In Your Life
IMPORTANT TIPS FOR PLANNING A WEDDING AT THE CLUB
BY RACHEL REITKOPP
February is here. The first month of 2022 has passed us. The holidays are over, and the world seems to be finally taking a breath and slowing down.
As we all have seen on social media, the holidays are also a time couples are getting engaged to be married. While most of the world is taking a deep breath from all the commotion the last few months, some may be experiencing quite the opposite. Those wedding planning jitters! If this hits home with you, do not worry, that is what we’re here for.
First, take a moment to soak in the “just said yes” joy. This should be one of the most exciting times of your life. Remember to cherish every moment of it. Planning your wedding is a big deal. These times will be joyous memories shared with your fiancé, friends and family. Wedding planning should not be nerve-racking. I am a big believer with the right planning tools, it can be downright fun!
After speaking with some of the best
wedding planners in this industry, I want to share some tips that are not just nice to know, but that every bride-to-be needs to know.
Know the Times
Research the area on your desired date. Make sure to avoid any conventions or local events that would impact the commuter traffic and hotel availability for your wedding. Avoid these dates at all costs.
Pay it Forward
Make money off your money! Find what credit card offers the best bang for your buck. Many different credit cards offer amazing rewards you can use toward travel or hotel stays. Put all your wedding expenses on that one credit card and have your numerous wedding purchases pay for that honeymoon!
Manage your Money
A positive financial plan is all about flexibility. Budgets revolve around balance. The
best way to keep track of your budget is to create a checklist with the non-negotiables and the negotiables. Add items such as DJ, floral arrangements, photographer, and the dress. Now number these items 1-3. Be generous with your money regarding your number ones and be more conservative with your cash for the number threes. For example, if your lifelong dream was to have the perfect designer wedding dress and lobster tail dinners, go all out for dress and food! This might however mean having to choose a simple invite and smaller flower arrangements.
For the spotlight event this month I wanted to feature Cathy and Jason’s wedding. We held their special day here in the Commodore room of Balboa Bay Resort. This beautiful couple shared their special day with fifty of their closest friends and family. To say it was heartwarming is an understatement!
To inquire about booking your special day, please reach me by email at rreitkopp@balboabayclub.com or call 949-630-4312.
Looking Forward To February Fun
MEMBER EVENTS PLANNED FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY AT THE CLUB
By Christine Nunez, Membership Coordinator
If you survived the craziness of Christmas and the long dark nights of January, you might be welcoming in February as one of your favorite months. Even though it is the shortest month of the year, it is chockfull with events, including Groundhog Day and Valentine’s Day. It is Black History month, as well as American Heart Month and Super Bowl LVI. Who knew that a month with only 28 (or 29 days) could fit all that in?
One of my favorite February moments are when I see the tiny heart candies with silly messages on them like ‘hug me’ or ‘ur cute’ come out. As a child we used to make messages to one another with these and giggle at our creations. Valentine’s Day is also full of beautiful, fragrant flowers (250 million roses are produced for the holiday) and the tradition of giving these on this holiday dates as far back as the 17th century. The holiday originated as a Christian feast day honoring one or two
early Christian martyrs named Saint Valentine and, through later folk traditions, has become a significant cultural, religious, and commercial celebration of love in many regions around the world.
After all, doesn’t “love make the world go round?” Love is a very valuable and essential thing in this world. Life is more enjoyable when people love one another. It is warmth, devotion and affection all wrapped together. What an amazing experience! And what better way to embrace it and display it for those we hold closest than this month of love?
On these chilly, February wintery days, we hope you use the Club as a place to celebrate your love. Whether it’s sharing a happy hour at the Pool Bar with a friend, watching Super Bowl Sunday with the family or attending one the many Valentine’s events featured this month, there are plenty of ways to observe the holiday, all month long at the Club.
“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness?” – John Steinbeck
Please join me in welcoming:
& ELLEN BELL
After raising their family in Irvine, Tim and Ellen Bell have moved their empty nest to Newport Beach and feel that the Balboa Bay Club is the perfect place to celebrate their retirement. They look forward to meeting fellow members at concerts and cookouts and when docking their Duffy boat, Extra Innings.
THE KORDOWER FAMILY
“We are very excited to be part of the Balboa Bay Club! We are looking forward to connecting with other members, meeting families, and making friends in addition to getting to enjoy the many amenities the BBC has to offer. Our boys cannot wait to jump in the pool and dig in the sand!”
TIM
A Rare Perspective
THE ULTIMATE NEWPORT PIED-À-TERRE ON THE
NEWPORT HARBOR
To learn more about exclusive leasing opportunities on the Newport Harbor, please contact Director of Leasing Laura Bryan at 949-630-4379.
Willy Reese: Iron Will For Mental Wellness
ONE MAN’S STORY OF OVERCOMING OBSTACLES AND FINDING A PATH TO HELP OTHERS.
BY MATT MORRISON
On a late autumn Sunday when a lot of us potatoes were plopped on the couch obsessing over fantasy football points through three rounds of NFL games, Willy Reese was exerting more athletic energy than any three pro football teams combined. The 58-year old Balboa Bay Club member spent the morning, afternoon, and half the night pushing his physical limits to the absolute extreme; competing in - and completing! - the 2021 Ironman Arizona triathlon.
It’s a feat of athletic endeavor few ardent weekend warriors can even conceive of. Arguably, it’s the most challenging oneday sporting event on the planet. Since the modern Olympic Games were established in 1896, and for most of the last century, the marathon foot race of 26.2 miles was the ultimate test of endurance. In the 140.6 mile Ironman competition, it’s the third and final stage after a challenging 2.4 mile open-water swim and then an exhausting 112-mile bicycle ride. Now, run a marathon. Crazy, you might say, but let’s exercise that term gently. Mental toughness is the biggest part of the competitive equation. Mental wellness is the biggest part of Willy’s inspiration. He earned his coveted Ironman status after gutting out the grueling course around Tempe in 14-hours and 44-minutes. He started just after dawn and finished well after dark. Pretty incredible for a guy who figured he wouldn’t finish the running portion of the event due to a lingering stress fracture in his foot. When he finally crossed the finish line after almost 15 hours of continuous exertion, the emotion wasn’t what you might expect.
“It’s really weird. You’d think I’d be like, ‘Yeah man, I’m so AWESOME!’, but there’s something so much bigger here,” he says. “Honestly, it’s just another race.”
No, it’s really not. So, why the seemingly overt modesty? Because, like many who take on the Ironman challenge, Willy Reese races for a higher cause. His is to raise awareness for mental illness and those suffering from
it. It’s something he’s experienced in his own family. His dedication is to spotlight the plight of so many afflicted with anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and a host of other disorders. Thus, his arms were not raised in triumph, no hoots & hollers, only sober reflection at the finish line of what is likely the athletic achievement of his lifetime.
“It was a little anticlimactic because what I’m doing is to try and be a voice for others who are suffering incredibly. They’re not able to end the race and hold their hands up in victory,” he explains. “I chose this event. People don’t choose to be sick.”
Willy and his wife Claudia joined the BBC in the early 90s when their three boys were little and learning to swim. Willy figured the family membership would be a good investment because he would still be using the pool and the gym after the boys had grown. Always athletic, Willy sampled all sports as a kid living in Geneva, Illinois, with swimming, golf and tennis high on his priority list. At the apex, though, was ice hockey. In his late fifties, he still plays competitively in an Orange County men’s league.
After his father moved the family west in his early teenage years, Willy assimilated well at Foothill High School in Tustin. He earned varsity letters in golf, swimming and water polo. With a few of his teammates, he was also a male cheerleader on the spirit squad.
“It was a great experience,” he happily admits with a sly grin. “To hang out with a bunch of good-looking young ladies, who were friends, and extend our friendships long after, plus support the school. It was cool.”
About the time his boys were launching up and out of the house, Willy’s attention was diverted to the health of his parents. His mother passed away unexpectedly in 2010 while his father was struggling with advancing Parkinson’s disease. On the urging of a friend who knew he played hockey and swam, Willy entered his first triathlon, an intermediate ‘Olympic’ distance race of just under a one mile swim, 25-mile bike ride, and a 6.2 mile run (10k). He was hooked. Within three years, around the time his father passed away in 2013, Willy was on the
podium as a top-3 finisher in his age group (50-54) at the same Herbalife LA Olympic triathlon.
“It’s been my outlet for coping with loss,” he says, noting he’s run about 15 to 20 events annually, including half-Ironmans and Spartan Obstacle races, over the past decade. “It’s truly inspiring, honestly.”
His Ironman experience was delayed two years after a previous foot injury sidelined him in 2019 and COVID KO’d the 2020 event. His nagging stress fracture threw off his training before the 2021 race leaving him with little confidence he could complete the run. He wanted the big Ironman experience anyway. It was ten miles into the marathon segment when his foot all but failed him. He says he would have quit had it occurred at the two mile mark, but his mental toughness took over. He gutted it out the rest of the way, 16 more miles, taking slow, ‘safety steps’ over the final four. He still finished in the top half of his 55-59 age group.
“It was definitely a suffer-fest, but it was my choice,” Willy reflects. “I thank God for an incredible community of athletes around me and my coach that helped me get through it. I hope and strive for that same kind of construct for people who are far worse off than I am. I train and race in support of those who do not choose to suffer from mental illness for a period of months or an entire lifetime.”
Marina Dutton General Manager
Balboa Bay Resort
Dear Guests, Members and Visitors,
This year, my focus is mindfulness and positivity. I genuinely believe intentions are manifested based on your positive energy and outlook. To me, after the busy holiday season, February is a time to focus on your most important relationship and to celebrate your loved one. Romance is in the air this month at Balboa Bay Resort! Mark your calendar for “A Night in Paris” Valentine’s Day Dinner Show Featuring THE World’s #1 Michael Bublé Tribute Singer, Scott Keo on Monday, February 14. Witness the Grand Ballroom transformed into a city street in Paris and feast on a wonderful buffet featuring a robust soup and salad bar, seafood and antipasto display, action stations along with lobster, lamb chops, and squash ravioli followed with an array of specialty desserts and a crepe flambe station. Then dance the night away to romantic Michael Bublé tunes. Check out our website for more information or email specialevents@balboabayresort.com to make reservations.
In addition to Forbes 4-star training for our staff and improvements around the resort, we are working on wellness this year and look forward to sharing our plans with you soon. Our goal is to continue to provide excellent service, a luxury product and healthy lifestyle options to our guests and patrons.
Don’t forget to cast your vote for Balboa Bay Resort for the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards! Visit https://wba.m-rr.com/home to cast your vote and to be entered to win a $15,000 dream trip!
We look forward to seeing you around the resort,
Marina
A Night in Paris
Valentine's Day Dinner Show featuring THE World's #1 Michael Bublé Tribute Singer, Scott Keo + Four Piece Band
Monday, February 14
5:30pm - Reception
6:00pm - Dinner Buffet | Grand Ballroom
7:00pm-8:30pm - Live Entertainment and Dancing
$330 plus tax per person on Eventbrite
Stroll through the picturesque city streets of Paris as you sip champagne, indulge in a decadent French inspired buffet while enjoying a romantic show under the stars.
Lobster Risotto | Caviar | Prime Rib
Crab | Scallops | Fondue | Crepes
Chocolate Fountain | Flower Cart
Specialty Coffee Station and more!
Balboa Bay Club Members and Hotel Guests staying overnight 2/14 enjoy special pricing. Email specialevents@balboabayresort.com with your member number or room reservation number for tickets.
From Barclay Butera With Love… Happy Valentine’s Day!
BY CHRISTINE PHILLIPS FOR BARCLAY BUTERA INTERIORS
Interior Design is a labor of love for lifestyle icon Barclay Butera, so February is definitely a month to celebrate! Creating sophisticated interiors that are also charming and cozy is Butera’s niche, and nothing is as warm, sensual and inviting as subtle white, cream and gold. Playful art adds a cheeky vibe to any space, and can truly be used to convey the essence of the home. Here in this chic mid-century modern showhouse, Barclay created this amazing
space for Lexington Home Brands during Modernism Week in Palm Springs. Butera infused his signature look by layering textiles, using mod wallpaper, and adding plenty of splashes of lustrous metals into the mix. Finally, lighting and mirrors become the jewelry of the space, and of course there is no better way to say “I Love You” than adding the personal touches that are so essential to Barclay’s glamorous style. Here’s to love!
For information about interior design services, please contact Jennifer Gordon at 310.994.4235
WWW.BARCLAYBUTERA.COM
How Do You Prove An E-Signature Is Real?
AN EMERGING TREND – LEGAL ENFORCEMENT OF E-SIGNATURES
BY ALEX CHAZEN
E-Signatures are becoming more and more routine. Many of our businesses use them almost daily, if not more so. I don’t know when the last time I physically signed a document being filed with a Court was. Even before the pandemic pushed even more online, 84% of residential home purchase contracts were signed using a form of e-signature (according to a 2019 National Association of Realtors study). And yet, how many times have you really stopped to think, “How would anyone really prove that this signature in perfect cursive, which looks nothing like my actual signature, was me?”
As working from home and closures of physical stores have gotten ever more prevalent over the last two years, I have had several clients talk to me recently about the enforceability of electronically signed documents. Many in the real estate industry want to know about whether they need physical (also known as “wet”) signatures to make sure their deals are protected. In the construction context, some builders are worried about having only electronic signatures or exchanging .pdf versions of contracts with their clients.
It seems that everywhere, from the Court system to the re-enrollment forms for my daughter’s school, uses some form of electronic signature. However, the simple cases where I am agreeing on behalf of my family to abide by the rules of the elementary school are not the types of scenarios where a business owner might worry about electronic signatures.
As with basically any question you ask a lawyer, the answer
is “it depends.” As should come as a surprise to no one, California, the home of Silicon Valley (and DocuSign), has long held that electronic signatures are absolutely enforceable, as long as the signature was “the act of the person” who allegedly signed the document. This means that there should be some method of verifying that the signature came from the person who you claim it to be. In fact, the first legislation about e-signatures in California came in 2000, three years before the ubiquitous DocuSign was founded. Shortly thereafter, also in 2000, the federal E-SIGN Act also recognized the validity of electronic signatures.
Companies like DocuSign provide certain security protocols in order to identify a signatory to a document, like an ID number and an email verification. There have been some recent Court cases in California that deal with the legitimacy of the DocuSign system, and the Courts have been nearly unanimous in their acceptance of documents that are signed through DocuSign being valid and enforceable. In the most recent case where the Courts made a finding against a purported electronic signature, a woman claimed that she never signed an agreement with a solar company when the solar company attempted to sue her for backing out of the contract. The Court asked the company to show several pieces of information, basically the who, where, and when of how the customer received and signed the contract – all data that the bigger e-signature companies track – and the business was unable to do it.
However, there are two items to note before you decide to switch all of your contracts over to electronic signatures. First, in order for e-signatures to be valid in most states in the United States, there needs to be a term in the contract that all parties agree that electronic signatures are permissible. Second, be very careful when applying e-signatures outside of the United States. The laws governing e-signatures in the European Union countries, for example, are one of the few areas where EU law can be modified by the member country, so the laws regarding whether e-signatures are enforceable can vary from place to place.
In the state of California, you can be fairly confident that the e-signature you receive will be enforceable, as long as you follow the rule that our algebra teachers taught us so many years ago: be prepared to show your work – who sent the document, when it was sent, when it was signed, and the IP address of the person who signed – all information that can and should be tracked if you are using e-signatures regularly.
A Little Super Bowl History
SUPER
BOWL LVI SET FOR SUNDAY FEBRUARY 13 IN LOS ANGELES WILL ONCE AGAIN CAPTIVATE SPORTS FANS WORLDWIDE
BY RYAN G COOK
Sunday February 13, 2022 marks the 56th Super Bowl otherwise officially known as Super Bowl LVI at SoFi Stadium Los Angeles. The Super Bowl is the annual Championship Game played for the National Football League (NFL). The event as we know it was created in 1966 between the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL) so the best teams could compete for a National Championship. The original game began as the AFL-NFL championship until 1970 when the “Super Bowl” moniker came to life. The Vince Lombardi Trophy, named after the coach of the Green Bay Packers, is given to the winning team each year and has been a tradition since Coach Lombardi passed in 1970. After the 1970 merger, 10 AFL teams along with three NFL teams combined to form the American Football Conference (AFC) while the remaining 13 NFL teams formed the Nation Football Conference (NFC) and currently the NFC/NFL leads the AFC/AFL with 28 wins to 27 through Super Bowl LV.
Spanning more than five decades, only 20 out of the 32 teams have ever won, and only 14 hold multiple titles. Those teams include the Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots with six, the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers with five, and the Green Bay Packers and New York Giants with four. The Patriots currently hold the record for most Super Bowl appearances at eleven, and Coach Bill Belichick holds the records for most Super Bowl wins at eight and appearances at 12. Ironically the Patriots
are also tied with Denver for most Super Bowl losses at five. Who else but Tom Brady had the most Super Bowl starts as quarterback with ten and wins at seven. Also, not a big surprise to see the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Houston Texans as the only four teams to have never appeared in a Super Bowl Game, although the Browns and Lions won NFL Championships before the 1970 merger.
Originally, the big game took place in early to mid-January, however since 2004 the Championship has been played on the first Sunday in February and though you can’t find it on the calendar, Super Bowl Sunday has become an unofficial holiday. It is the second most-watched single sporting event in the world, second only to the UEFA Champions Cup Final. It is the premier American broadcast annually, with the most expensive commercial airtime, and the second-largest day for American food consumption, behind Thanksgiving. The main reason the Super Bowl is so popular is because it’s a single game or event. The other three major North American sports leagues, MLB, NBA, and NHL, have a best of 7 game series and therefore spread out over 2 weeks. Another thing people look forward to when it comes to watching the Super Bowl is the halftime show. The halftime show reputation has now been built up to that of the commercials. Simply put, we now expect the best and that’s also why the Super Bowl has become the principal annual sporting event in person and on television.
