THE BIG REVEAL…
NBCC Golf Course
Renovation Completed
BALBOA BAY CLUB | BALBOA BAY RESORT | NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB
1221 West Coast Highway | Newport Beach | California | balboabayclub.com | balboabayresort.com | newportbeachcc.com
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, CFO
Jerry Johnson
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
INTERNATIONAL BAY CLUBS, LLC. Todd Pickup
GENERAL MANAGER, BBC Leticia Rice
PRESIDENT INTERNATIONAL BAY CLUBS, LLC. Kevin Martin
GENERAL MANAGER, RESORT Marina Dutton
BOARD OF MANAGERS FOR INTERNATIONAL BAY CLUBS, LLC
GENERAL MANAGER, NBCC Robin Shelton
Todd Pickup, Kevin Martin, Richard Pickup, Kory Kramer, Joe Moody, Rick Weiner, Devon Martin, Steve Arnold
BALBOA BAY CLUB & BALBOA BAY RESORT STAFF
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER RELATIONS AND CLUB EVENTS
Aaron Trent
DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP
Selby Gillett
EXECUTIVE CHEF, BALBOA BAY CLUB
Jacob Davis
EXECUTIVE CHEF, BALBOA BAY RESORT Prabeen Prathapan
SENIOR MANAGER OF FOOD & BEVERAGE
Rodrigo Otalora
GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
Scot Dey
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Graeme Blair
DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE
Sarah Sanchez
CATERING SALES MANAGER
Rachel Putnam
CATERING SERVICE MANAGER
Vaughn (Sarah) Bene
CATERING SERVICE MANAGER
Sarah Omar
MEMBERSHIP SALES MANAGER
Danielle Sayer
HR MANAGER
Sarah Blanco
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Phillip Brickley
DIRECTOR OF RECREATION
Ashley Pitcock
DIRECTOR OF SALES
Kamia Kinchlow
CLUB SECRETARY
Sandy MacIntyre
SPA MANAGER
Holly Monson
DIRECTOR OF GOLF
John McCook
HEAD GOLF PROFESSIONAL
Robbie Maurer
CONTROLLER
Pam Burns
TRAINING MANAGER
Melanie Stacklie
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER RELATIONS
Yoona Chang
MEMBER RELATIONS MANAGER
Katherine Feehan
DIRECTOR OF RECREATION & FITNESS
Bianca Gillett
RECREATION MANAGER
Gabe Soria
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER EXPERIENCE
Fabrizio Khalona
DIRECTOR OF LEASING
Laura Bryan
DIRECTOR OF MARINA OPERATIONS
Captain Troy Heidemann
EDITOR
B.W. Cook
ASSOCIATE MANAGING EDITOR Laurie Veitch
EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE
Alyssa Smith
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Yoona Chang, Ann Chatillon, Katherine Feehan, Melanie Hertrick, Clayton Lilley, Patrick O’Donnell, Aaron Trent, Marielena Verdugo
PUBLISHED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FIREBRAND MEDIA
The Bay Window (USPS 548-160) Editorial-Advertising Offices: 1221 West Coast Highway, Newport Beach, California 92663. Telephone (949) 630-4515. Official publication of Balboa Bay Club, Newport Beach. Published monthly by Balboa Bay Club Ventures, LLC, with Periodical Class postage paid at Newport Beach, CA and at additional mailing offices. By subscription, $18.00 a year. Single copies, $3.00. ©2021 Balboa Bay Club Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photographs must be accompanied by a self addressed stamped envelope. Postmaster- Please send change of address to: 1221 West Coast Highway, Newport Beach, CA 92663 Local Advertising: The Bay Window, 1221 West Coast Highway, Newport Beach, CA 92663, (949) 630-4517.
A Night In Old Hollywood
THE 2022 PACIFIC SYMPHONY GALA RAISES AN IMPRESSIVE $2.3 MILLION FUNDING PROGRAMMING AND EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH.
Kate Levering and Reza Jahangiri
Dr. Jacob Sustaita, Richard Kaufman, Carl St.Clair, Charlie Zhang
Lisa Vroman sings Broadway hits
Carl and Susan St.Clair
Mark Tomaino and Diana Martin
Diana Martin, John Forsyte and Heidi Zuckerman
Ruth and John Evans Derellyn and David Melilli Event co-chair Judy Whitmore Roberta Ahmanson and Hans Imhof
PHOTO COURTESY CHRIS DARNALL PHOTOGRAPHY
Bruce Cook Editor
Dear
Reader,
Where does time go? How can it be August 2022? The media tells us it is time to start holiday shopping. Gosh, really?
Well, some may be shopping for the winter season, but I say the smart people are making the most of an incredible August summer season. Appropriately, the August issue of Bay Window finds its summer focus on life-enhancing, non-stressful, non-controversial, possibly meaningless, uncomplicated, relaxing and even delicious pastimes to fill August with unbridled pleasure.
Our cover story is all about golf at Newport Beach Country Club. Respected golf columnist Randy Youngman takes us on a hole-by-hole adventure seeing the exciting new golf course design recently completed. For our readers set to travel, read food columnist Lana Sills’ exquisite description of culinary destinations from Paso Robles vineyards to the dining room of Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo. After reading Sills’ commentary, you’ll be calling your travel agent.
If Europe is not on your radar for August, check out summer at Balboa Bay Resort, Newport Beach. Bay Window writer Francine Slosser shares big news for hotel guests traveling with their “fur relatives.” And, just in case Fido stresses you with some K-9 anxiety, Slosser has the antidote. Be sure to read her story on creative tequilas and other libations being served in the hotel’s A+O Restaurant | Bar on the bay, definitely one of Newport’s most popular gathering spots.
All this summer fun plus our popular photo spreads covering club life over many holiday and family gatherings at NBCC and BBC make the perfect summer read. Don’t forget to check out the photos from the Annual BBC/BBR Car Show, as well as Father’s Day, 4th of July, and so much more.
Perhaps best of all, August beckons members to take advantage of days poolside at NBCC, BBR and BBC—which also has this little extra special feature called a white sand beach fronting the main channel of Newport Harbor. How lucky can we be?
Loving August,
Bruce Cook Editor
In May of 2017, Carole Pickup hosted an event at the BBR designed to bring awareness to the crucial need for living organ donors. As a result, Bruce Cook, editor of Bay Window received a kidney from Laguna Beach resident Heidi Miller, saving his life. Four years later, post pandemic, Carole is joining Bruce, Heidi and Ralph and Sherry Opacic to pay the gift of life forward helping many in need of organ transplantation here in Orange County. The purpose of The Life Savers Foundation OC is to grant financial assistance to living organ donors paying for expenses related to lost wages, hotel, travel, medical appointments and more. Taking away the financial burden will enable so many more generous people to “save a life.” In Heidi’s words, “The gift of life is the greatest gift of all.”
Consider joining the cause. Your participation is life changing.
Mrs. Carole Pickup Founding Chair and Sherry and Ralph Opacic and Heidi Miller
Cordially Invite
Balboa Bay Club and Newport Beach Country Club Members
Balboa Bay Resort Guests and
Friends Community Wide to celebrate
THURSDAY EVENING, SEPTEMBER 29, 2022
Balboa Bay Resort Grand Ballroom Cocktail attire
6 pm arrival reception, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres
7 pm 3-course chef curated dinner 8 pm program and dessert 9 pm dancing and entertainment Featuring
15, 2022, to Heidi Miller at heidimillerkidneydonor@gmail.com or call 949-933-4606 for more information, please pay by check or with credit card
“Curtain Up…Light The Lights!”
BROADWAY ICONS ARE COMING TO SEGERSTROM CENTER
When it comes to seeing performances by Broadway royalty, the only place they are typically found is in New York. However, Segerstrom Center for the Arts is bringing some of Broadway’s biggest names to Costa Mesa for the 2022/23 Headliners Series!
This star-studded series includes Bernadette Peters, Chita Rivera, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Patti LuPone, Mandy Gonzalez and Javier Muñoz. These trailblazers have paved the way for theater history and have been recognized for their work with nearly every award imaginable, including Tonys, Grammys, Kennedy Center Honors, Drama
Desk Awards, and more. Featuring an exceptional lineup of performers, this series is truly unlike anything else you’ll find in Southern California.
After her recent Tony Award win for her performance as Joanne in Company, Patti LuPone is bringing her illustrious star power to the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall for a captivating evening filled with your favorite showtunes. Her remarkable career has spanned five decades and includes iconic lead roles in hits such as Evita, Sweeney Todd, Gypsy and Les Misérables. LuPone’s one-woman show Don’t Monkey with Broadway showcases
new interpretations of music by Richard Rodgers, Lorenz Hart, Jule Styne, Stephen Schwartz, Charles Strouse, Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, Cole Porter and Irving Berlin. It’s not every day that this Broadway legend flies out to the West Coast for a performance such as this, and her show at Segerstrom Center will be one you won’t forget.
Currently, there is only one way to guarantee seats to see these living legends in their dazzling performances: a Headliners Series subscription! Gear up for these incredible shows and visit SCFTA.org to become a season ticket holder today.
BERNADETTE PETERS September 28, 2022
CHITA RIVERA December 11, 2022
BRIAN STOKES MITCHELL January 6, 2023
PATTI LUPONE February 9, 2023
MANDY GONZALEZ & JAVIER MUÑOZ March 5, 2023
A Recipe For Success
SOUTH COAST PLAZA HOSTS A DINNER RECEPTION AT MICHELIN STAR KNIFE PLEAT ON BEHALF OF CULINARY ARTS PROGRAM (C-CAP) LOS ANGELES AWARDING FINANCIAL GRANTS TO UNDERSERVED YOUTH SEEKING CAREER-ORIENTED EDUCATION IN THE CULINARY ARTS.
Amar Santana, Ahmed Labbate, Tony Esnault, Yasmin Sarmadi
Ja Torres and C-CAP executive director Tanya Steel
Volunteers Dulce Garcia, Ryan Riba, Katelyn Sharp, Ja Torres, Nate Merenstein
Joan McNamara and Barbara Fairchild Lisa Fontanesi, director C-CAP LA
James Hamamori, Jennifer and Anton Segerstrom
James, Nancy, Anne and Danny Shih
Jonathan Club’s COO-GM Matthew Allnatt
LIVE THE LIDO LIFESTYLE
OLGA MATTHEWS 949 922 5577
omatthews@villarealestate.com DRE No. 00483564
Hoag Hospital Welcomes 1,500 Guests For A Little Summer Get Together
THE HOAG SUMMER FEST RETURNS IN STYLE TAKING OVER THE NEWPORT DUNES WITH FABULOUS FOOD AND MUSIC UNDER THE SUMMER STARS
Carolyn and Gary McKitterick Evan and Vince Mungo
Bill and Vicki Booth
Event underwriters Irv and Nancy Chase
Alena Ulaner, Dr. Gary Ulaner, Dori Holnagel, Dr. Daniel Von Hoff, Hoag CEO and President Robert Braithwaite
Andrew Boukather and Sarah Booth
Hoag Summer Fest Co-Chairs Gabrielle White and James Caillouette, MD
Lauren Franke, Lauri Delson
Lead Singer Matt Mauser of Tijuana Dogs
Sandi and Ron Simon
44 Women For Orangewood Raise $340,000 For Student Scholarships
THE 18TH ANNUAL LUNCHEON AT BALBOA BAY RESORT ATTRACTS 350 GUESTS
FUNDING EDUCATION FOR DESERVING FOSTER YOUTH.
Anne Marie and Gordon McNeil of Newport Beach Dermatalogy with Katie Ellis of Genesis Bank Foundation
Keynote Speaker Deidre Pujols
Speaker Junely Merwin
Auctioneer Mike Shumard with Sherri Bovino and daughter Paige Mrunal Shah, Judy Nicholls, Yvette and Kevin McCarthy
Kelly Johnston, Yvette McCarthy, Sherilyn Schneekluth and Sydney Johnston
Co-Chairs Judy Nicholls and Susan Samueli with Speakers Deidre Pujols and Junely Merwin
The United Way Matters
THE 2022 ORANGE COUNTY UNITED WAY WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY FUND BREAKFAST RAISES NEARLY A HALF MILLION DOLLARS FOR LOCAL NON-PROFITS AT THE 19TH ANNUAL GATHERING HELD AT THE WESTIN SOUTH COAST PLAZA. SPECIAL GUEST MISTY COPELAND FRONTS THE LOCAL STAR-STUDDED PHILANTHROPIC EVENT.
Sue Parks and Allen Staff
Tiffany Buchanan and Zeena Dhalla
Susan Samueli, Sue Parks, Lindsey
Charles Antis, Vanessa Goodman, Eric Goodman, Matt Reid
Laurie Dubchansky and Kamie Kirschner
Melinda Masson
Dancer
Suzan Nasr and Shirin Behzad
Misty Copeland
Willa Mae Enriquez and Amber Enriquez
“Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August.” – Jenny Han
We love summer! It's time to enjoy OC's gorgeous weather, outdoor gatherings and long days and the beach. It's also a great time to sell and purchase a new home, and settle in before the holidays. Selling smart takes more than magic, but it can be as easy as 1-2-3!
1)We have exclusive access to off-market listing data so we can price your home competitively to generate buyer excitement.
2)Our industry-leading Marketing and PR team will present your home at its best, earning you top dollar.
3)We offer Compass programs that increase property values like the exclusive Compass Concierge program, to help you sell your home faster and for a higher price by fronting the cost for home improvement services (with no interest or surprise fees).
We're ready to help you make this summer extra-magical in a new home. Call us anytime for a private consultation.
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Machoskie & Associates
A SPECTACULAR NEW GOLF COURSE DEBUTS
EXTENSIVE NBCC REJUVENATION MAKES COURSE MORE PLAYABLE FOR EVERYONE
BY RANDY YOUNGMAN / PHOTOS DARNALL PHOTOGRAPHY
In the span of 80 days, a spectacular new golf course has emerged amid the cooling ocean breezes at stately Newport Beach Country Club.
Technically, it is not a new course, but it is now strikingly different from the layout designed by legendary architect William P. Bell that opened for play on Valentine’s Day in 1954 as Irvine Coast Country Club. It also distinguishes itself from the course that was upgraded by other architects in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.
This is a rejuvenated and improved Newport Beach Country Club, with a new scorecard and a new course record soon forthcoming.
HOLE
Continuing a course-improvement project that began while the $44 million, state-ofthe-art clubhouse was under construction a few years ago, Orange County architect Casey O’Callaghan, course superintendent Scot Dey and General Manager Robin Shelton oversaw the most recent and most dramatic changes to a course that has earned accolades as host venue for a successful PGA Tour Champions event for more than two decades.
And it is the culmination of a process that began shortly after Kevin Martin and Todd Pickup and their families purchased the club a decade ago. Kevin and Todd toured the course with Ben Crenshaw to get guidance on preserving the course during future renovation plans. Crenshaw emphasized that they had the bones of a great Billy Bell course, they just needed to embrace it and improve upon it.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of project,” Shelton said during a golf course tour in mid-June, a few days before the project was completed and before the Grand Reopening for members was scheduled. “We worked very hard to get it right. And ownership deserves a lot of credit.”
“Almost every time we came back with (a new proposal), ownership’s response was, ‘What’s the right thing to do? What’s going to make it better?’ ” said O’Callaghan, who has presided over all of the upgrades in the past few years. “Obviously, that meant spending more money, but ownership wanted to make the course as good as it could possibly be.”
HOLE 13, PAR 3, AERIAL DRONE SHOT
Newport Beach Country Club, its name since 1985, is still a traditional, tree-lined course—a “classic” in every sense of the word—but the rejuvenation that took place from April 4-June 24 has been so extensive, even longtime members might feel as if they are now navigating a new course.
Before executing the course changes, Shelton, Dey and O’Callaghan were part of an NBCC delegation that visited San Francisco Golf Club, a 1923 A.W. Tillinghast design that has been ranked among the top classic courses in the U.S. for decades.
“We took some inspiration from San Francisco Golf Club, a parkland course in a coastal town, close to water,” Shelton said. “I think we’ve done a nice ‘Billy Bell meets Tillinghast’ combination here.”
“Prior to the renovation, the scale of many of the golf features and landforms did not align with the grounds; they didn’t meet the majesty of the property,” O’Callaghan said.
Shelton echoed those sentiments, elaborating specifically on “the impetus” for the project.
“The tees were uneven and small. The bunkers were old and worn and didn’t fit the landscape,” he said. “If we’re going to redo the bunkers, let’s do it right. If we’re going to level the tees, let’s make them bigger. If we’re going to do all that, let’s make some of the greens better. Let’s fix the cart paths and add more landscaping. If we’re doing it, let’s do it right.”
And collectively, all of the changes have accomplished a goal shared by Shelton and O’Callaghan.
“We’ve done a really nice job of making the golf course more challenging for the good player, but also more playable for the everyday member,” said Shelton, a scratch handicap. “And that’s something I’m very proud of.”
“A lot of the bunkers were poorly placed,” O’Callaghan said. “If you’re a single-digit handicapper who can hit the ball 270 yards, most of the bunkers (previously) you could fly; they were not in play. In that respect, I don’t think it was a very challenging golf course for a single-digit, longer-hitting golfer.”
It undoubtedly will be more challenging
TODD PICKUP AND KEVIN MARTIN
NO. 5, THE NEWEST PAR-5 AT NEWPORT BEACH CC
BY RANDY YOUNGMAN
Through the years, the most difficult hole at Newport Beach Country Club has always been No. 5.
That has been true for club members, who have been playing it for nearly 70 years, since the opening foursome at Irvine Coast Country Club teed off on Valentine’s Day in 1954.
And it has been true for tour professionals, who have been competing there for nearly 50 years—first in the Crosby Southern Pro-Am that was established in 1975 and later renamed the Taco Bell Newport Classic, and then in the Senior PGA Tour’s Toshiba Senior Classic (now Hoag Classic) beginning in 1996.
No. 5 has always been a beast, because it is a long par-4 that plays into the prevailing ocean breezes.
Was a par-4, that is.
Now, it is a par-5, as it was many years ago before the pros arrived in town.
In the most recent course changes at Newport Beach Country Club, the 435-yard par-4 has been converted into a 466-yard par-5, creating a new par-72 championship course.
The stiff ocean breezes are still there. And there are new hazards to navigate. It remains to be seen if the hole will be more receptive to birdies.
Standing on the new back tee box in midJune, along with course architect Casey O’Callaghan and General Manager Robin Shelton, it felt like a 25-mph wind in our faces. So the
perception was that the green seemed a lot more than 466 yards away.
“Feels like 600 (yards), doesn’t it?” O’Callaghan said, smiling.
That’s why No. 5 previously was rated as the course’s most difficult hole (No. 1 handicap) by the Southern California Golf Association. And why it has played the most difficult statistically during the Hoag Classic in most years, with one notable exception.
In 1996, the first time the 50-and-over PGA Tour Champions event was played at Newport Beach Country Club, Jim Colbert birdied No. 5 in all three rounds—a feat that had never been accomplished before or since—on the way to a two-shot victory. (Even that year, No. 5 had the highest scoring average in the field during tournament week.)
The newest par-5 at NBCC now has more challenges than an in-blowing, two-club wind. Two stone pine trees left of the fairway, which often came into play, have now been replaced by two new bunkers in the left rough in the landing area. Another new bunker has been added in the right rough.
“The bunkers are close to where the trees had been,” O’Callaghan said.
From the back tees, the first bunker on the left is 260 yards, and it’s 300 yards to carry both of them, Shelton said, while the fairway bunker on the right is 310 yards from the tee.
“We spent an extreme amount of time on this
hole to make sure we got it right,” Shelton said. That meant hitting many drives off the tee to best gauge where to strategically place bunkers so they are factored into a golfer’s strategy.
“One of the hardest things is to place a fairway sand bunker where there previously was not one, hitting balls and knowing distances, and having them fit in,” O’Callaghan said. “We had to do that on (Nos.) 5, 9, 11 and 15. It took a lot of time, thought and effort.”
Interestingly, Shelton said that during the original redesign on No. 5, there were no fairway bunkers planned. That changed during on-course testing and evaluation.
“During the process, we went from 4 to 8 bunkers on the hole,” O’Callaghan said. “That includes five bunkers around the green: three on the right and two on the left—instead of one on each side of the green.”
“That was a theme we saw everywhere on the golf course at the green approaches: bunker front left, bunker front right,” Shelton said. “We tried to create some different looks and additional variety to make the course play better.”
In the redesign of No. 5, O’Callaghan said there are now three bunkers in the first landing areas (tee shots) and two in the second landing areas (approach shots).
“We also integrated a green extension on the right, to create a ‘Sunday pin,’ ” he said.
During the entire course rejuvenation, O’Callaghan said steep “volcano” mounds behind several greens (including No. 5) were “softened and brought down, because they were things that just didn’t fit. They were not in concert with the flow of the natural land movement on the property aesthetically.”
Some changes will be more obvious than others, but one that everyone will notice will be the one on the scorecard that lists No. 5 as a par-5.
“One thing that is neat about No. 5, a 446yard par-5, is that the hole plays different at different times of the day,” Shelton said. “We’ve done a nice job of making it a playable par-5 at 7 a.m. or at 1 p.m.”
And now new history is waiting to be documented on the newest par-5 at Newport Beach Country Club.
Interestingly, three tour pros currently share the course record of 11-under 60—Tom Purtzer (2004), Nick Price (2011) and Duffy Waldorf (2015), all during the Toshiba Classic—but now it will take a 12-under score to match them and a 13-under total to top them with a 59.
HOLE 5, PAR 4, FROM TEE BOX
now. After recently spending two days at the revamped course to measure and rate it, officials from the Southern California Golf Association increased the NBCC course rating from 71.9 to 73.4 and increased the slope from 127 to 132 (from the men’s back tees). That means the course will play nearly two strokes more difficult for even the best players.
The world’s best 50-and-over tour pros also will get to test the course’s new degree of difficulty when they arrive for the annual Hoag Classic in March. Shelton said PGA Tour Champions officials were not consulted about the redesign project, but he is confident the pros will embrace the changes, too.
To test the low-handicap players, a number of fairway bunkers were moved to different landing areas farther down the fairway— Shelton said usually in the 270- to 310-yard range from the back tees—after extensive testing and measuring driving distances.
“By relocating bunkers, we’ve been able to create a more interesting strategic golf course for the better golfer, as well as open it up for the 15-20 handicapper,” O’Callaghan said. Toward that end, some bunkers that previously came into play only for high handicappers were removed—such as on the right side of No. 1, the left side of No. 3, the left side of No. 10 and the right side of No. 15. And
moving a fairway bunker 30 yards farther on the short par-4 11th—one that never was in play for long hitters—opened up the right side for shorter-hitting members but now will require a 280-yard carry for longer hitters.
“Every hole out here, you can run the ball up on the green,” Shelton said, accentuating what makes the course playable for all members. “There are no carry bunkers (to reach the green). And I think one of the things we did a nice job on is where there are multiple bunkers, the bunker closest to the tee is easier to get out of than the next bunker; and the farthest from the tee is the hardest to get out of.” In theory, this helps shorter hitters and is more challenging for longer hitters.
There are also new bail-out areas for higher-handicap players, including, most notably, the area left of the newly rebuilt 17th green if a player doesn’t want to risk hitting over water to attack a flagstick.
“We’ve given them a big bail-out area to the left, like a catcher’s mitt,” O’Callaghan said. “So if you want to bail out left and try to chip and 1-putt for par, that’s open to you.”
Though the original design of Irvine Coast Country Club was that of William P. Bell, his death in June 1953—a few months after construction had begun—forced his
son, Billy, to complete the project with the help of construction supervisor Arthur Sunderland, who would stay on as course superintendent.
Over the years, there have been periodic course upgrades and enhancements— by Harry Rainville in 1973 and by Ted Robinson in 1985, 1988 and 1999—but the changes under O’Callaghan’s supervision are the most significant and dramatic.
In addition to the major changes on No. 5, the newest par-5, the par-5 18th finishing hole has been, literally, a revelation.
Two towering stone pine trees were removed from the right rough, which previously blocked the tee box view of the right side of the hole all the way up the hill.
Suddenly, a picturesque view corridor has opened from the tee.
There it is, in the distance—the iconic and lavish clubhouse waiting to welcome you at the end of a round.
“It’s memorable,” Shelton said. “There is something very cool when you can see the entire hole, the entire fairway, all the bunkers, the clubhouse and the American flag on the back of the green.”
Naturally. A new and improved Newport Beach Country Club deserves stunning new views, too.
HOLE 9, PAR 4, NEW BUNKERS AND CLUBHOUSE VIEW
HOLE 10, PAR 4
AMONG THE NOTABLE NEW FEATURES AND AESTHETIC ENHANCEMENTS AT NBCC ARE THE FOLLOWING:
• The par-4 5th hole has been lengthened to 466 yards and converted into a par-5, adding a stroke to par, from 71 to 72. Previously, No. 5 was a 435-yard par-4, rated as the course’s most difficult hole.
• A new back tee on the par-3 13th hole has lengthened it from 171 to 195 yards.
• A new back tee on the par-4 14th hole has lengthened it from 403 to 475 yards.
• A new back tee on the par-4 12th hole has lengthened it from 377 to 403 yards. In addition, a troublesome tree was removed about 40 yards from the green on the right, one that previously had blocked many approach shots, even from the fairway.
• The parallel par-5 15th and par-5 18th holes now share an expanded back tee box with improved sightlines.
• The course is 203 yards longer from the back tees (6,821 yards, increased from 6,618), but a new set of forward tees measuring 5,105 yards also makes the course more playable for young and old alike.
• All of the tee complexes have been rebuilt, reshaped and resodded with Kikuyu grass. (Dey says Kikuyu grows 10-11 months a year, making it much preferable to Bermuda grass and requires less water.) Many of the teeing grounds also have been lowered to make them more easily accessible.
• The number of bunkers has increased from 63 to 85, and many existing bunkers have been relocated to landing areas that have changed because of improvement in equipment technology in recent years.
• Bunkers also have been lined with “capillary concrete”—the latest
bunker liner technology for improving drainage and eliminating soil contamination and plugged lies. Truckloads of firm new sand also were brought in to fill the bunkers.
• Three greens were completely rebuilt: the par-3 No. 13, the par-5 No. 15 and the signature par-3 No. 17. Distinct tiers and steep slopes have been eliminated from the middle of these greens, a feature favored by former consulting architect Ted Robinson. There were also green extensions added on Nos. 1, 5, 10 and 14.
• Some concrete cart paths were eliminated, and others were moved so they are less visible and less likely to come into play on errant shots.
• A number of trees have been cleared, opening up vistas and view corridors—most dramatically on No. 18, the uphill finishing hole, where the clubhouse can now be seen from the tee box.
3, PAR 5
• Trees were also removed on the right side of the dogleg-right, par-4 9th hole and replaced by new bunkers. On the new No. 5, trees also were removed on both sides of the fairway and replaced by new bunkers.
• New landscaping and colorful flora have been introduced on the periphery of the course to enhance the natural beauty.
HOLE 17, PAR 4
HOLE
INSIDE THE RARIFIED WORLD OF NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB
Robin Shelton
CCM, PGA Master Professional General Manager
Newport Beach Country Club
Dear NBCC Members,
This month, we reopen from our golf course improvement project.
Last spring, Golf Coure Superintendent Scot Dey and I began a conversation with club ownership about engaging in a golf course Master Plan project. Discussions were previously had about the next phase of the Master Plan project after previous tree removals and improvements to hole 7.
We began with a golf course design plan that had already been submitted by local golf course designer Casey O’Callaghan. We strongly believed that our tees needed to be leveled and expanded, and our bunkers needed new liner and drainage.
As our conversations continued, the scope of the project increased to include rebuilding all tees, reshaping bunkers, improving cart paths, adding landscaping and rebuilding greens. We then set objectives that would guide our planning:
1. If we need to rebuild bunkers, we should make them visually appealing to match the natural terrain and flow of our property.
2. The golf course design should all match and be consistent with similar design (hence why greens 13, 15 and 17 were rebuilt).
3. The golf course should be more challenging for the low handicap player while at the same time more playable for mid to high handicap players.
We worked to achieve these objectives in the following ways:
* Bunker Shaping: We hired one of the most sought-after bunker shapers and asked him to shape bunkers that were reminiscent of coastal parkland golf course layouts consistent with famed golf course designer A.W. Tillinghast.
* Bunker Locations: We placed greenside bunkers closer to the greens to eliminate long bunker shots. We placed fairway bunkers further from the tee to challenge longer hitters.
* Bunker Depth: We made bunkers that were not as deep with smaller lips to be more playable to hit from.
Greens 13, 15 and 17: These greens were all rebuilt with consistent slopes from 2-3%, which is consistent with the other greens on the golf course.
Additionally, we both moved and removed piece of the cart path throughout the golf course in an attempt to remove them from sight where possible. We also added more than 4,500 plants to enhance our landscaping through the exterior areas of the golf course.
We hope you enjoy our improved golf course and are able to see and notice the changes!
All the best,
Robin Shelton
H SUMMER CAMP
August Calendar
H DUPLICATE BRIDGE 6:15PM
LADIES’ GRILL
H BURGER BASH 5 - 8PM
SEAHORSE GRILLE
H SUMMER CAMP
H CLUB CLOSED
GYM & LOCKER OPEN
H SUMMER CAMP
H DUPLICATE BRIDGE
H BURGER BASH 5 - 8PM
SEAHORSE GRILLE
H SUMMER CAMP
H SWIM AWARDS BANQUET / 6-8PM / NEWPORT BALLROOM
H CHEF’S TABLE 5:30PM SEAHORSE GRILLE
H SUMMER CAMP H
MEMBER GUEST / SEAHORSE CLASSIC TOURNAMENT
LADIES
Danielle Sayer Membership Manager
Hello Members!
August is known for many things—it’s the last full month of summer, National Watermelon Day is on Aug. 3 and it also marks the end of the dog days of summer, which wraps up on Aug. 11 this year. Although the dog days may be coming to an end and we are bidding farewell to our Seahorse Swim Team and summer campers, summer fun at the club is roaring on.
Date Night returns Aug. 12 and we are making a splash on Aug. 19th & 26th with the Dive-In Movie of the season.
Ahoy mateys! What’s made of paper, covered in duct tape and floats? The potential winner of this year’s NBCC Cardboard Regatta! Families, join us at the pool on Aug. 28 for this beloved member event. We’ll supply the cardboard and duct tape; you bring one secret ingredient and a master plan for constructing a paper boat that can carry your team across the pool first. Will your boat be dubbed “Old Ironsides” or go down in history like The Titanic? Sign up online to find out.
Wine aficionados, it is our pleasure to host the Wheeler Farms wine dinner on Aug. 18. Originally established in 1871, Wheeler Farms had expanded to include more than 100 acres of grape vines, fruit, nut and citrus trees by 1894. Today, the farm features a state-of-the-art winery utilizing the most advance technology available. Reservations are available through the member website or by calling Seahorse Grille directly at 949-524-8120.
See you at the club!
Please help me welcome the following new members to the NBCC family:
MICHAEL CRIMMINS
Michael is the founder and CEO of CM Pacific Capital. Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, he is the loving father of three beautiful daughters. Michael recently moved to Newport Beach full time to be closer to his business. He is very active in the yacht club/boating community in town and enjoys golf, tennis, pickleball, scuba diving and daily workouts.
SHANKAR & BOGUMILA (BOGI) ELIZABETH BASU
Born and raised in India, Shankar relocated to the United States in 1970 and began working for Toyota in 1980. Bogi immigrated to the U.S. from Poland in 1972 and began her own accounting business. Today, Shankar and Bogi own Toyota Material Handling Solutions in Los Angeles and mostly reside in their Newport Beach home at the Meridian. In their free time, they enjoy traveling internationally, golfing on the weekends, boating in Lake Arrowhead and Newport, as well as the performing arts.
Fun at the Fair
FROM CARNIVAL GAMES AND ROCK CLIMBING TO FERRIS WHEEL RIDES AND A LIVE CONCERT, FAMILIES CAME TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE DURING THE NBCC SUMMER FAMILY FAIR & CONCERT.
William and Eileen Hanley
Skye Sanner with her prize
Thomas and Susan Utman
Flashback Heart Attack performing
NBCC Carnival
The Horgan family
John Cho, Dinah Cho, James Cho
Dani DeSilva dancing with her dad Chris DeSilva
Rose Kramer The Blanchard family
Ferris Wheel Fun
Members enjoying the concert
Mia Flesher, Mei-Chi Flesher Rock climbing
Carnival games
Sunny Days
DISCOVER THE BEST WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM HARSH RAYS THIS SUMMER.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
Living in Southern California, there are a lot of sunny days—more than most other places in the United States. With such high levels of sun exposure, especially in the summertime, proper skin care is absolutely crucial from both a beauty and a health perspective.
“Since the FDA seems to be concerned about those absorption levels being so much higher than the recommended amount, it would be important for us all to start making more informed decisions when buying sunscreen,” says Bianca Gillett, Director of Recreation and Fitness at Newport Beach Country Club, who adds that she would rather be safe than sorry.
One of the best ways to ensure you are safe when it comes to your summer skin care routine is to educate yourself. Here, Gillett shares her tips for selecting a suitable sunscreen that will allow you to have fun in the sun without compromising your complexion.
BEAUTY ROUTINE BENEFITS
The sun can cause a considerable amount of damage to the skin over time, and that is what sunscreen helps fight. “It is nearly impossible to never get sunburned, and most people will experience a sunburn at one point in their lives. That isn’t the problem,” Gillett notes. “It becomes a
problem when excessive exposure to the sun results in the skin taking on damage.”
She says that, when the skin turns red from a sunburn, it is then weakened and changes the texture on your face. Later, it begins to swell or peel or, with really bad burns, painful blisters develop. It is this pattern that can create damage that can turn into skin cancer.
This is why sunscreen is so important: It can prevent sunburns, UV damage and skin cancer in addition to staving off signs of premature aging, sun spots and hyperpigmentation. “No matter what skin tone you have, you should still be applying sunscreen whenever you might be exposed to the sun,” Gillett says.
DOS AND DON’TS
One of the best ways to ensure you’re protected every day is to apply a facial moisturizer that contains sunscreen, which makes it easier than ever to safeguard yourself from
the sun while also fighting cancer, signs of aging and wrinkles. “I cannot stress enough to make this a daily morning routine,” Gillett notes.
When seeking a solid sunscreen, there are a number of ingredients you’ll want to avoid, including avobenzone (or benzophenone), oxybenzone (or benzophenone-3), homosalate, octocrylene, octinoxate (or methoxycinnamate) and octisalate. “Before buying any sunscreen, make sure to try to avoid any of those listed chemicals above or any added fragrance,” she adds, as they cause elevated levels of these substances in your bloodstream that can last for weeks after application, which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says can have negative outcomes on your health.
Some of the brands that Gillett says are safer choices are Coola’s Mineral Sun Silk Moisturizer Organic Face Sunscreen, Hawaiian Tropic’s Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance, La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Melt-In
Milk Sunscreen and anything from cruelty-free brand Sun Bum. Anyone looking for an affordable option can head to the nearest Walgreens to grab the company’s Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion as well. And for kids, consider Pipette Baby’s mineral sunscreen.
On those days where it isn’t so sunny and the coastal marine layer blankets Newport Beach, Gillett says you still need to be vigilant about skin care. “The UV rays are still coming through even the thickest marine layer and you can still get sunburned,” she explains.
When preparing to lather yourself up, make sure to get every inch that could possibly get burnt. “Keep it simple and any skin that is exposed to the sun should be covered with sunscreen,” Gillett says. “… The … part I think people tend to miss are their feet— [it] is not fun if those get sunburnt.”
So soak up the summer sun, but make sure you’re fully protected before you do.
Vino Varietals
DELICIOUS DISHES WERE PAIRED WITH SIPS FROM BANFI WINES DURING NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB’S RECENT WINE DINNER
Ana and Gino Stumpo
Julie and Nader Salib
Kory and Lauren Kramer
A beautiful evening on the Oasis Lawn Cheers
Beautiful Banfi Wine Dinner Setup
Members enjoying Banfi Wines
Call Out Bingo
MEMBERS WATCHED THEIR CARDS CLOSELY, HOPING THE RIGHT NUMBERS WOULD BE CALLED DURING NBCC’S BINGO NIGHT.
Coulter Stewart, Shari Stewart Mick Hollern
The Akins family
Jenni DeSilva, Dani DeSilva
Max Buccola, Kelly Buccola
Erin Mertlebauer
Cheering for Bingo winner
Enjoying Bingo Night
Taking Flight
NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB’S DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION REVEALS TIPS FOR HOW TO FLIGHT YOUR WEDGES.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
There are many techniques that golfers need to master to play their best game on the course. One such method is flighting wedges, or exploring different trajectories to get the golf ball closer to the green.
According to Carlo Borunda, the director of instruction at Newport Beach Country Club, learning this technique can be pivotal to improving your game. “The lower trajectory of the flighted wedge shot will help to add some distance to your wedges,” he explains.
Here, Borunda reveals how you, too, can flight your wedges.
BAY WINDOW: What does it mean to flight your wedges?
CARLO BORUNDA: A flighted wedge describes the technique a golfer will use to lower the trajectory of the golf ball with their wedges. The golf ball will land much sooner on the putting green and is allowed to bounce forward a little before the spin reacts to stop the ball. Tour professionals often use this skill to help them make numerous birdies throughout a tournament.
BW: Why is it important to learn how to do this?
CB: The technique [of flighting your wedges] encourages two vital skills that all golfers need to learn, which are weight transfer and forward shaft lean. When applied correctly, these two skills will improve your ability to properly compress the golf ball.
BW: How can using this technique improve your golf game?
CB: The angle a golf club descends into the ball is called the attack angle. The trajectory of the golf ball, backspin and overall contact are all affected by how the golf club approaches the ball. As you practice the technique, you will develop a better understanding and feel for the different attack angles used to alter the trajectory of the golf ball. Having control over the flight of the golf ball will improve your ability to play in different weather conditions and on more challenging golf courses.
BW: What are some things to keep in mind when trying to hit the flighted wedge shot?
CB: It is important to understand the correct setup positions. The ball is played further back in your stance with a slightly closed club face. Your balance favors your lead foot and the shaft leans toward the target throughout the swing. It is best to use more club than normal for the shot, which will help to promote a lower ball flight. The angle of attack is shallow and feels similar to how you would sweep a fairway wood. The wrist hinge in the backswing is minimal to prevent a steep attack angle. Allow your body rotation to control the golf club swing. A low ball flight and thin divot are good indicators that you are correctly executing the technique.
On the backswing, limited wrist hinge is ideal to help control the flight and distance of the flighted wedge shot.
For your setup, maintain the lead foot balance and forward shaft lean throughout the swing. These two skills promote the desired lower ball flight of the flighted wedge shot.
BW: What tips do you recommend to improve the control of the ball flight and spin produced from your wedges?
CB: Learn the distances you [typically] hit each wedge with a full swing. Next, learn the distances you hit each club with three-quarter and half swings, using the same aggressive swing speed. The goal is to understand how to maintain your technique and swing speed while modifying the type of swing required for the flighted wedge shot.
BW: What kinds of challenges will golfers typically face when trying to do this?
CB: The initial challenges are getting used to the lower ball flight and understanding that you need to allow for some roll after the ball lands on the green. This requires the golfer to visualize a landing spot short of the hole so they have room for the ball to release forward before stopping.
BW: How can the wind impact your wedge shots?
CB: The flighted wedge shot is very useful in windy conditions. Wind reduces the distance the golf ball will travel and it also increases the backspin generated at contact. When you have too much backspin, the golf ball will likely end up spinning back away from the hole, leaving a much longer putt than anticipated.
BW: How can the position of the hole impact how you play your wedge shots?
CB: The location of the hole plays a major role in how you should play a particular shot. The high-trajectory wedge shot is sometimes the only option when the hole is tucked away in a corner of the green or behind a bunker, because the higher trajectory allows the ball to stop immediately once it lands. The flighted wedge shot, on the other hand, has a larger margin for error due to the nature of the shot. You need to have enough fringe or green to work with to properly play this type of shot.
BW: Are there any special products or tools that can help golfers stay consistent with their wedges?
CB: Practicing with a launch monitor is ideal as it will confirm several data points, like club head speed, carry distance, attack angle, launch angle and spin rate—which you can’t measure without the device.
BW: Anything else to add?
CB: It is helpful to have several wedge options. In my set, I carry a pitching, gap, sand and lob wedge. Keep your wedges in good condition by regularly cleaning the grooves and grips as you practice and play. Grips that are in bad condition affect your ability to swing without excessive tension in your hands. Grooves that are worn out produce far less backspin than newer wedges. Your wedges should be upgraded at least every two years. Demonstrating body rotation
On the forward swing, use more body rotation and a lower club position as you finish the golf swing.
Proper Perspective
NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB MEMBER JOE CONNOLLY SHARES THE NEXT TRAVEL DESTINATION ON HIS BUCKET LIST, HIS FAVORITE FAMILY TRADITION, WHAT KEEPS HIM GOING WHEN TIMES GET TOUGH AND MORE.
Every so often, the editors of Bay Window send out a questionnaire to one of the esteemed members or employees of an International Bay Clubs property to gain some insight into his or her life. These nine questions allow our readers to learn something new about old friends, or discover somebody they have not met before. For this issue, we’re getting to know Newport Beach Country Club member Joe Connolly.
Bay Window: What is your favorite family tradition?
Joe Connolly: Our family really gets into St. Patrick’s Day. We cook a big [meal of] corned beef and cabbage, share Guinness and rock out to traditional Irish music. In honor of the way I celebrated St. Pat’s in South Boston as a kid, we invite our family
and have an open-door policy for friends and neighbors. Sláinte!
BW: What is your favorite way to spend a day off?
JC: 18 holes at sun-up, beach picnic with family for lunch, golf on TV while cooking dinner with family as the sun sets—perfect.
BW: What do you think makes someone a good person?
JC: Transparency. I find it very endearing when someone is honest with others as well as with themselves.
BW: When you want to give up, what keeps you going?
JC: It’s rare that I get the inclination to “give-up” on something. Instead, I try to remain level-headed and not let the highs get “too high” or the lows get “too low.” When times do get tough, I can usually find my peace by focusing on the things I am most grateful for. My wife, two great kids and my faith in God are at the top of that list.
BW: Would you rather cook or order in?
JC: Depends. I make a mean red sauce and meatballs—a recipe from my Sicilian grandmother—but sometimes no mess/cleanup and
some Pad Thai from Bamboo Bistro is the way to go.
BW: What song always gets you out on the dance floor?
JC: “Sara Smile” by Hall and Oates. It’s my wife’s song!
BW: What was your favorite age growing up?
JC: I was a big fan of age 15. I had a great job at a golf course, my parents gave me some autonomy and I could get anywhere in town on my bike within 20 minutes. A great balance of freedom and responsibility at that age.
BW: What is the first step you take in trying to achieve a new goal?
JC: Prayer/meditation, followed by clear goal setting, plan creation and visualization of success. Then it’s time to execute. Ironically enough, this process mirrors my pre-shot swing routine when I am playing my best golf.
BW: Where is the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
JC: We are taking Annabelle and Joey to Puerto Vallarta to watch the sea turtles hatch and race into the ocean under the full moon. We are thrilled!
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, 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, Richard Hausman, 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
General Manager
Balboa Bay Club
Dear Members,
As August begins to wrap its sunny skies and warm breezes around us and we prepare to roll into our endless summer on the bay, I want to thank all our members for their continued support of the Club! We are having a great summer and enjoying all the wonderful events that have come with it. Our BBC Rodeo Round-up which rode into town this year has been a wonderful success and features Chef Jacob’s BigBold-BBQ menu that has become the talk of the town. If you have yet to experience this western-inspired night, be sure to join us this month for the last two of the season on August 10th and 25th.
I can already hear the school bell ringing in the distance but before we start getting ready to go back to school, be sure to join us for Back to School Bingo coming to you live from members lawn! That’s right, we are busting out and enjoying as much of the summer sun as we can before heading back to the classroom! Make your reservation today and join us on Wednesday, August 3rd for a fun family night on the bay!
There is still so much summer to be had at the club so be sure to check out all the events, including our summer concerts, luau and new this year, a fun-filled corn hole tournament on Sunday, August 28th!
Thank you to all our members who joined us for the member mixer on the lawn last month and for the great event at the resort! So many of you have taken the time to stop by and tell me what a great feeling it was to enjoy a summer sunset on the lawn accompanied by the delightful music stylings of Danny Maika and how much you enjoyed getting re-introduced to all the resort has to offer.
As we continue to enjoy summer at the club, please remember to keep a watchful eye on small children, pack those swim diapers, and remember cover-ups and shoes are required in the Clubhouse and Members Grill.
We look forward to welcoming you at the club!
Leticia
Leticia Rice
LAWN
August Calendar
H BACK TO SCHOOL BINGO 6:00 PM MEMBERS LAWN
H YOGA CLASS 9:30 AM BAYFRONT LAWN
H CAZ FITNESS 4:00 PM, 5:15 PM, 6:30 PM BAYFRONT LAWN
H BACK-TO-SCHOOL MOVIE BUCKETS 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM CLUB DESK H ISLAND THURSDAY 4:30 – 7:30 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H HAWAIIAN SUMMER LUAU PARTY 6:00 PM RECEPTION 6:30 DINNER MEMBERS LAWN
H YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 AM MEMBERS LAWN
H A+ O SUSHI & SAKE 5:00 – 8:00 PM A+ O
H YOGA CLASS 9:30 AM BAYFRONT LAWN
H CAZ FITNESS 4:00 PM, 5:15 PM, 6:30 PM BAYFRONT LAWN
WEEKEND BRUNCH 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL H YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 AM MEMBERS LAWN
H ISLAND THURSDAY 4:30 – 7:30 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H ISLAND THURSDAY 4:30 – 7:30 PM MEMBERS GRILL
YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 AM MEMBERS LAWN
YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 AM MEMBERS LAWN H A+ O SUSHI & SAKE 5:00 – 8:00 PM A+ O H YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 AM MEMBERS LAWN H WEEKEND BRUNCH 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H YOGA CLASS 9:30 AM BAYFRONT LAWN
H CAZ FITNESS 4:00 PM, 5:15 PM, 6:30 PM
BAYFRONT LAWN H YOGA CLASS 9:00 - 9:45 AM MEMBERS LAWN
H FAMILY MOVIE BUCKET 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM CLUB DESK
Selby Gillett Director of Membership
JAY & ANGELA SCHWANZ:
“While growing up in Newport Beach, my family lived at the BBC for six years. So it is definitely like coming back home, in a very good way! My wife Angela and I really look forward to continuing some existing relationships and building new ones at the BBC!”
A Special Tour Of The BBC
INTRODUCING PROSPECTIVE NEW MEMBERS TO THE CLUB CULTURE
by: Selby Gillett, Director of Membership
There is nothing like summer at the Balboa Bay Club! The weather is perfect, the air is filled with the sounds of laughter and boats leisurely passing by, and the smell of sunscreen is prevalent. The Club is abuzz with happy, carefree energy and it’s so palpable and infectious that every opportunity I have to leave my office and venture out leaves me feeling refreshed and revitalized. I look forward to every tour I schedule and get excited at the prospect of showing yet another family this awesome Club.
Early in July I gave a tour to a young family who asked me, “What makes this Club special and different from all the other clubs in the area?” They happened to ask the question just as we were walking out of the Clubhouse and past the Dip ‘n’ Dots machine to check out the lawn, beach, and pool. It was a beautiful Wednesday afternoon. Swim team was just wrapping up for the day, families were starting to arrive for the Rodeo Round Up BBQ and the Pool Bar was full of members looking to enjoy an after-work cocktail at the coolest bar in town with their friends. Several members passed us by and each one said something to the effect of “just do it,” “it’ll be the best decision of your life,” or, “you can’t beat the BBC.” I opened my mouth to answer and before I could say anything, the husband jumped in and just said, “Never mind… I get it. This is all I need to see.” At that I just smiled and promised I didn’t set it all up especially for them.
We have a special place here. Year round of course, but especially during the summer and it’s a true honor to be able to show it off as frequently as I do.
Many wishes for a wonderful rest of the summer!
“Keep your face to the sunshine and you will never see a shadow.” – Aubrey Hepburn
Please join me in
DENNIS & TRISH HAHN:
“We’re looking forward to attending social events, meeting other members and spending time getting to know the club. Being that we live in the desert, we’re most looking forward to spending time on the water, exploring the waterways around the islands.”
welcoming:
RICHARD & SHEREE PHILLIPS
”We are excited to become members at BBC to create new friendships through the club’s organized social events, enjoyment of the dining options and use of the spa & health facilities.”
BAKHTAR BUNCH:
“We are so happy to be part of the BBC family. Everything is perfect here “We are so happy to be part of the BBC family. Everything is perfect here from the smiling faces to the wonderful amenities. We are grateful to be part of this amazing community.”
GHANNADI FAMILY:
“We are thrilled to be members of the Balboa Bay Club. Our family can’t wait to spend summers in the pool and the beach and we’re looking forward to spending family time at the club and meeting new families.”
August and September Member Events 2022
AUGUST
FIESTA TACO TUESDAYS
EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Live Mariachi music and great Margarita specials, paired with 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. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL BINGO
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM • MEMBER LAWN
Enjoy one final game night on the Bay, before heading back to school. Lucky winners will be awarded school supplies, plus great gift card prizes. Snacks and beverage service will be available. $25 per guest, 6-guests max per membership. 48-hour cancellation policy in effect. Reservations required, please call 949.630.4120.
ISLAND THURSDAYS CONTINUE!
EVERY THURSDAY IN AUGUST
4:30 PM – 7:30 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Join us at the Club this month for Island Thursdays. Enjoy reduced priced Mai Tais, Chef Jacob’s special Hawaiian Sunset Dinner Menu and the island sounds of BBC favorite, Coconut Frank, playing live steel drum music. Reservations for Members Grill required, please call 949.630.4290.
HAWAIIAN SUMMER LUAU PARTY
FRIDAY, AUGUST 5 • 6:00 PM
RECEPTION, 6:30 PM DINNER • MEMBERS LAWN AND BEACH
Transport yourself to the islands for an evening with our popular Hawaiian Summer Luau. Enjoy welcome leis, authentic live music, Chef’s whole-roasted pig on the beach, tropical drinks, Polynesian Dancers and a Fire-Knife Dancer finale! Guaranteed to sell out, so please get your tickets early! Members Only, No Guests, No Walk-Ins. Seating is limited. 48-hour cancellation policy. Reservations required, please call 949.630.4120.
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 your choice of savory Italian favorites you are sure to love. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
FAMILY BACK-TO-SCHOOL THEME MOVIE NIGHT BUCKETS
TUESDAY, AUGUST 9 (AVAILABLE FOR PICK-UP BETWEEN 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Gather your family for a movie night at home. Complete the experience with your very own pre-made Movie Night Bucket with a Back-ToSchool theme. Order your Family Movie Bucket today by calling the Club Desk at 949.630.4120. Movie Night Buckets are compliments of your Club. One bucket per family please.
BBC RODEO ROUND-UP NIGHTS!
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10 & 25
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM • MEMBERS LAWN
If you haven’t yet tried it, you’re going to love bringing the entire family to the Club for our Western Theme Nights on the lawn. Our DJ will play all your country favorites while keeping the kids entertained. Western props, cowboy hats and of course, a full-size rodeo mechanical bull will complete the fun! Take a night off from cooking to enjoy Chef’s delicious Big-Bold-BBQ-Menu! Featuring Baby Back Ribs, Spicy Hotlinks, Beef Dogs, Cheeseburger Sliders, BBQ Chicken and Tri-Tip, Smoked BBQ Salmon, Fresh Salads and Slaw, Corn on the Cob, Roasted Vegetables, BBQ Baked Beans, Sliced Watermelon, Creamy Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Buttermilk Biscuits, Assorted Desserts and more! Reservations not required.
“BEACH BOYS TRIBUTE – CATCH A WAVE” – LIVE SUMMER CONCERT
FRIDAY, AUGUST 12 • 6:30 PM DOORS OPEN, 7:30 PM CONCERT MEMBERS LAWN
Fun, Sun and Surf sets the backdrop on the Bay for this recreation of the 1960s Beach Boys tribute, “Catch A Wave.” Vocal harmony beyond belief! Sporting authentic detail just as you remember, this act recreates the 1960s Beach Boys right down to the white instruments, blue and white stripe shirts, and wavy hair evoking that unique California harmonic surf-pop sound so recognizable around the world. This show is a must see! Guaranteed to sell out, get your tickets early! 72-hour cancellation policy. For tickets, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
LADIES BUNCO NIGHT
MONDAY, AUGUST 15
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM • BOARDROOM
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.
KID’S CAMP DISNEY MOVIE NIGHT/ PARENT DATE NIGHT
TUESDAY, AUGUST 16
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM – IN THE RESORT
Kids are going to love watching their favorite Disney Movies on the big screen, while parents enjoy a Date Night at the Club! Unlimited popcorn, movie theater candies and kid’s
dinner included! Bring your favorite pillow and blanket and come in your pajamas. Limited seating available, so make reservations early. Members only, no guests. Kids must be checked in and out by their parents. Parents are welcome to enjoy their own dinner in A&O or Taco Tuesday in Members Grill. Parents must remain on property. Reservations required, please call Recreation at 949-630-4420.
“COUNTRY ARTIST TRIBUTE – LUKE BRYAN & MIRANDA LAMBERT” – LIVE SUMMER CONCERT
An all-hits, power packed tribute to not one, but two of today’s biggest arena-rocking country stars. Experience the top country music of Luke Bryan and Miranda Lambert in one spectacular show. Our Country Artist Tribute Shows have always been crowd-pleasers featuring the best look-a-likes and sound-a-like Country Stars you love. Guaranteed to sell out, get your tickets early! 72-hour cancellation policy. For tickets, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
“TIJUANA DOGS” – LIVE FINALE SUMMER CONCERT FRIDAY, AUGUST 26 • 6:30 PM DOORS
OPEN, 7:30 PM CONCERT
MEMBERS LAWN
Topping off our Summer Concert Series this year, you don’t want to miss SoCal’s hottest band featuring the one and only Matt Mauser. Matt returns to the BBC to perform classic rock hits and modern favorites, as only he and his Tijuana Dogs band can. You are sure to be up dancing the night away. This concert will sell out, get your tickets early! 72-hour cancellation policy. For tickets, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
BBC CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT
SUNDAY, AUGUST 28
MEMBERS LAWN
More Details To Come.
FAMILY MOVIE BUCKETS
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30 (AVAILABLE FOR PICK-UP BETWEEN 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Gather your family for a movie night at home. Complete the experience with your very own pre-made Movie Night Bucket. Order your Family Movie Bucket today by calling the Club Desk at 949.630.4120. Movie Night Buckets are compliments of your Club. One bucket per family please.
TIJUANA DOGS
SEPTEMBER
OUR FINAL “ISLAND THURSDAY” OF THE SUMMER!
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
4:30 PM – 7:30 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Join us at the Club one last time for Island Thursday. Enjoy reduced priced Mai Tais, Chef Jacob’s special Hawaiian Sunset Dinner Menu Specials and the Island sounds of BBC favorite, Coconut Frank, playing live steel drum music! Reservations for Members Grill required, please call 949.630.4290.
LABOR DAY WEEKEND FUN WITH KONA ICE
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 • 11:30 AM –2:30 PM • MEMBER POOLSIDE/LAWN
Just for the Kids on Saturday, come get your favorite flavors of Kona Shaved Ice, compliments of the Club. Parents will enjoy the Members Pool Bar featuring great drinks and ice-cold beers on tap. Our traditional beachside BBQ will be open and grilling up summer favorites. Enjoy summer games and great DJ music on the lawn.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 • 11:30 AM –2:30 PM • MEMBER POOLSIDE Soak up the sun, cool off in the pool, relax and
listen to great poolside music with Coconut Frank. Our traditional beachside BBQ will be open and grilling up summer favorites.
BBC’S FAMOUS LABOR DAY CARNIVAL – MORE FUN THAN EVER!
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM • MEMBER LAWN
Summer is not over for kids until they attend our famous Labor Day Carnival, featuring carnival games, prizes, live DJ, popcorn, live entertainers, balloons and more! Tickets for games are still only .25 cents each. Members only. Reservations not required. Beach lounge chairs are available on a first come, first served basis, plan to arrive early. No Guests.
FIESTA TACO TUESDAYS EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL Live Mariachi music and great margarita specials, paired with 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. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
PRIME RIB THURSDAYS ARE BACK!
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 15, 22 AND 29
5:00 – 9:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
A Member favorite returns! Join us on Thursday nights this month for Chef Jacob’s Prime Rib Dinner. Enjoy a 12 oz. Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Au Jus and Horseradish Crème, fresh Bread Rolls, finished with New York Cheesecake and mixed
berries. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
FAMILY MOVIE BUCKETS!
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
(AVAILABLE FOR PICK-UP BETWEEN 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Gather your family for a movie night at home. Complete the experience with your very own pre-made Movie Night Bucket. Order your Family Movie Bucket today by calling the Club Desk at 949.630.4120. Movie Night Buckets are compliments of your Club. One bucket per family please.
FALL FUN BINGO NIGHT
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
6:00 PM • BAY VIEW ROOM
Get ready for another exciting night of Bingo here at the BBC. A perfect night out to welcome fall. Join us for snacks, lots of fun, and great gift card prizes. 48-hour cancellation policy in effect. No Guests, no walk-ins. Reservations required by calling 949.630.4120.
MUSIC UNDER THE STARS
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM • MEMBERS
LAWN & BEACH
Join us for a terrific night under the stars with live music on the beach. Fellow member, Dr. Steve Garber brings his full “Bad Habit Band” to the BBC playing great music for you to enjoy. Dance in the sand or enjoy lounge seating and cocktail tables on the lawn. Complimentary charcuterie with a full no-host bar available. A Member only event. For reservations, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
LADIES BUNCO NIGHT
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM • BOARDROOM
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. 48hour cancellation policy in effect. Reservations required, please call 949.630.4120.
EMILY YAMASHITA is an Orange County native with extensive training in ballet, contemporary, tap, and modern dance. After receiving her BFA in Dance and Performance from the University of California, Irvine, Emily completed her certification in the Pilates Method under the guidance of Diane Diefenderfer at Studio Du Corp in 2015. After receiving her MS in Global Medicine from the Keck School of Medicine in 2020, Emily has returned to teaching Pilates in Newport Beach. Having a keen eye for functional movement, Emily has combined the knowledge she has gained as a Physical Therapist Aide and the Pilates Method to help her clientele improve their range of motion, strength, and the mind-body connection. Emily believes that regardless of how your body may feel today, Pilates will help improve your everyday life. Remember, “Motion is Lotion.”
BILLY BACARDI has 25 years of experience in the fitness industry, focusing on all aspects of health and wellness. His background in fitness began in his teens as a competitive powerlifter which morphed into competitive bodybuilding. He is a well-rounded athlete with a diverse set of athletic skills from extreme skiing to tennis, is an accomplished martial artist and pro body surfer. His career began in Gold’s Gym Hollywood as a celebrity trainer with a long list of actors and directors for clients. He is currently employed at Hillcrest Country Club where his clientele has been under his instruction and care for 18 years.
Billy’s skill set as a personal trainer provides custom tailored programs to match clients’ fitness objectives, including strength training, physical therapy and hyper-focus on specific body part goals. He excels in the ability to cater to professionals and flourishes by advancing their abilities to achieve realistic, long-term goals. Billy is certified as a personal trainer with the American Council of Exercise and the American Sports and Fitness Association. He graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Media Arts.
TO INQUIRE OR BOOK SESSIONS WITH EITHER EMILY OR BILLY, PLEASE VISIT US IN THE FITNESS CENTER OR CALL THE RECREATION OFFICE AT 949-630-4414.
AUGUST SPECIAL
Summer Soother Facial
Cool off from hot summer days with this gentle, refreshing facial. Treat your skin with mild botanical extracts and antioxidants to rebuild the skin’s essential hydration barrier, while cold globes massage the skin to reduce inflammation caused by too much exposure to the sun. Leave with skin that feels calm, plump, and protected.
Includes a take home gift and 10% off all skin care purchases on the day of the facial.
CBD Body Wrap
This treatment is designed to stimulate the lymph, detoxify your body, and deeply hydrate the skin. We start with a centuries-old body brushing technique, then nourish your body with aromatic CBD Massage Oil. While wrapped in a light cocoon, you’ll receive a luxurious facial massage. Vital Body CBD oil combines rosehip oil and a balanced blend of herbs, including calendula and chamomile that enhance the skin healing and inflammation-reducing properties of broad-spectrum CBD.
Enjoy 10% off all CBD product purchases on the day of your service.
Pedal To The Metal
THE ANNUAL BBC CAR SHOW IN CONJUNCTION WITH BALBOA BAY RESORT BRINGS OUT SOME 1,500 CAR LOVERS FOR THE BIG SHOW OF CLASSICS TO CYCLES, TO CARS OF THE FUTURE.
1955 300 SL Gullwing (Mercedes)
1967 Toyota FJ45 Land Cruiser
1954 Buick Skylark
1948 ING GTC
2022 Maserati MC20 Super Car
1938 BMW Cabriolet
Richard and Marilyn Moriarty
Rick Davenport
Four generations of the Barto Family
The Gerstein Family
The Tom Johnson Family
Paul Edalat and Tareq Risheq
The Goe Family
David Alderfer and Erik Straub Jim Quigley and Governor Ryan Tomalas
Lisa and Jan Spierings
1959 VW “Shorty” Bus Voted “Favorite Car In Show”
Clark Gabel’s 1955 300 SL Mercedes Gullwing
Yippie Ki Yay!
WESTERN WEDNESDAY BBQ ON THE BBC LAWN AND BEACH IS A SMASH SUMMER HIT FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY.
BIG HATS, KICK-A** BOOTS AND GALS IN “DAISY-DO” DRESSES SET THE ULTIMATE WESTERN MOOD!
Aiden Stavros Arie Stavros
Brandie and Presley Elsen
Brody Declark
Jamie and Mariana Danishment
Hank Popoff
Eric and Mila Mear
Cassidy Stokes
Henry Nelson
The Pony Races
The Pony Races
Maya Danishment
Natalie Declark and Amber Stavros
R.J, Elin, Ford and Megan King
Sarah & Preston Patterman
Krista and Penelope Ewart
Logan Cuyler
Dylan Hallock
The Definition Of Beach Chic
AN
EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY RESIDENCE ON THE BAYFRONT CREATED BY RESIDENTS AND THEIR DESIGNER DEBUTS SUMMER OF 2022
BY BRUCE COOK | TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BBC RESIDENCE LIFESTYLE, PLEASE CONTACT
LAURA BRYAN AT 949-630-4379
Mr. and Mrs. Sam (Darla) Longo of Pasadena working with designer Markie Rudolph of Leading Road Design joined their creative talents producing a stunning Balboa Bay residence encompassing 2,755 square feet of interior living space plus an expansive bayfront terrace with both southern and western sunset views over water. The yearlong project was a labor of love for the Longo family seeking the perfect beach retreat for extended family including children and grandchildren living in Costa Mesa visiting with their Pasadena parents on weekend adventures in Newport.
The ultra-modern home with wonderful floor to ceiling Fleetwood stackable sliding doors opening to the bayfront is the ideal stress-eliminator for two high-powered executives. Darla Longo serves as Vice Chairman of CBRE, Industrial Real Estate Brokers, while husband Sam Longo owns multiple manufacturing businesses including Infratech, creators of outdoor heating systems. “Darla worked closely with designer Markie,” shared Sam Longo adding, “We collaborated extensively on all aspects of the project from architecture to construction, finishes, and furnishings.”
Entering the home, one is greeted by the state-of-the art white on chrome chef’s kitchen opening to an enormous, expanded dining room seating 12, with bay vistas. A double size great room encompasses the southern wing of the residence, flowing into a cozy den/media room with walls of built-in cabinetry, and more walls of glass facing water. The den leads to a massive primary bedroom suite with luxurious bath and closets, private balcony on the bay, and even a corner office. Two commodious additional bedroom suites with two more elegantly appointed bathrooms, a separate
utility room and an additional room functioning as a nursery for the grandbabies completes the floorplan.
Pristine white walls, handsome honey-toned textured wood flooring and contemporary lighting blends with Markie Rudolph’s modern-transitional selection of custom furnishings, fabrics, and finishes. The designer chose a neutral palette of
soft off-white and crème textured fabrics with accents of royal and navy blue to set the tone. Furniture is contemporary with touches of classic tradition. Wooden tables, chests and club chair frames are finished in warm honey-tones. The large central coffee table with its warm wood finish and cabriole legs in the great room displays a touch of old-world sensibility meeting new
modern living. In the primary bedroom, a handsome, grand king size platform bed also combines the classic and modern aesthetic. Perhaps best of all are the custom patio lounge chairs inviting the Longo family and friends to take in the spectacular view, never wanting to leave.
Life Just Does Not Get Much Better Than This.
A Summer Lawn Party
BBC MEMBERS GATHER FOR SUNSET COCKTAILS AND DINNER ON THE CLUB LAWN FRONTING THE NEWPORT HARBOR
Amy & Matt Arndt
Gary & Shawn Bowan, Kristi & Ryan Johnson
Bob & Kristi Jacob, Jared Miller
Beth Blower, Nanci Terrry, Dena & John Baron
Randy & Rebecca Hall, Lawrence Jones, Erin & Chad Liberto
Fallon & Tracy Rowerdink
Gigi & Jenna Barto
Greg Stickley, Chris Fultz
Governor Bill Blaine, Patrick Mulvee
Colleen & Rick Wackerbarth
Jean Macino, Margaret Baldwin
Rob & Carrie Young, John & Marsha Santry
Jenny MacMaster, Kelly Mitchell, Lindsey Soylemez
Larry & Sam Ewing
Lisa Spierings, Holly Forsythe
Mary Guignon, Lisa Hallaian, Jacqueline Fox, & Dana Kanne
Long May She Wave
FLAGS, FUN, FOOD AND FAMILY AT THE CLUB CELEBRATING 4TH OF JULY
Amanda and Charolette Kilpatrick
Pie Eating Contest
Harbor Patrol Sprays the Bay
4th of July Birthday Cake
American Legion Post 291 Color Guard and Sydney Haik
Bob and Kristy Jacob
Kelly Seal
Kennedy Arndt Lila Sanita
4thof July fun in the Bay
Bill and Anna Bryson Evers
Taylor Willis
The Bakhtar Family
The Cannon Family
The Hobbs Family
Popyy and Lizzy Sinclair
Sebastian and Alex Brown
Dena and Alli Baron
Mallory Barto
Maria and Alex Gupta
Dads Rule
FATHER’S DAY 2022 AT THE CLUB
Bud and Holly Kincaid
Robert Carroll and Dan Young
Dan and Teresa Young, Robert Carroll, Heather and Tarek El Moussa
Connor and Mike Kincaid
Jeff and Fallon Rowerdink
Linda and DJ Bibb
The Biundo Family
The Chambers Family
The Holiday Family
The Leffel Family
Skyler and Brandon Hobbs
The Lucas Family
Marina Dutton General Manager Balboa Bay Resort
Dear Guests, Members, and Visitors,
I hope everyone is enjoying the long days of summer and spending time along the beautiful California coastline. It’s all about being outdoors when visiting Newport Beach! We are fortunate to be able to enjoy warm weather activities and outdoor dining all through the fall and we have added more ways for you to do so.
Recently we launched our partnership with Lido Electric Bikes which you can reserve with our concierge. Electric bikes are a fantastic way to explore the peninsula and coastline. Working out outdoors is a wonderful way to enjoy the California sunshine and cool breezes off the bay. We now offer complimentary Monday Morning Yoga by the Bay every week at 9:30am on the Bayfront Lawn. This class is in addition to our Monday afternoon fitness classes which are hosted by CAZ Training Club. Reserve your spot by emailing info@caztrainingclub.com.
We continue to enhance our food and beverage offerings at the resort. Outdoor seating has been expanded along the boardwalk so you can enjoy a water view while feasting at our Sunday Seafood Brunch. Join us for an expansive array of seafood, specialty stations, dessert, and bottomless mimosas. Reservations highly suggested.
A+O Restaurant | Bar continues to be the place of choice to dine for members, guests, and locals. Specialty nights include Western Wednesday, Raw Bar Friday, and Sushi + Sake Saturday, with live music most nights. Additionally, we launched our new Tequila bar last month, providing an exclusive tequila and mezcal experience which you can learn more about in this month’s issue. When planning to dine at A+O Restaurant | Bar be sure to make a reservation in advance and be sure to check out our new 90-point wine list!
Enjoy the remainder of your summer and we hope to see you at the resort for our Labor Day Weekend celebrations poolside. Be sure to reserve your cabana in advance and take advantage of our cabana enhancement packages.
I hope you and your family enjoy a wonderful summer season. Thank you for visiting us at the resort, I look forward to seeing you again when you are here.
Marina
Pampered Pooch Package Debuts For Four-Legged Guests Of Balboa Bay Resort
JUST
IN TIME FOR NATIONAL SPOIL YOUR PET DAY ON AUGUST 10
BY FRANCINE SLOSSER / PHOTOS COURTESY OF DOGMA PET PORTRAITS
Attention Pampered Pooch Parents! Beloved four-legged guests can receive the celebrity treatment they deserve at Balboa Bay Resort with the launch of its Pampered Pooch Package. Designed to provide a luxurious escape for dogs, the Pampered Pooch Package includes a variety of stylish, delicious, and entertaining amenities upon check-in.
Starting at $150, the Pampered Pooch Package features:
• Custom swag bag of Balboa Bay Resort branded items and treats
• “Paws and Repeat” photo station so V.I.P.s (Very Important Pooches) can post content for their fans
• Choice of Balboa Bay Resort bandana or bow tie.
• Dog menu options at A+O Restaurant | Bar and in-room dining
• Photoshoot add-on at option at Dogma Pet Portraits Studio in Costa Mesa www.dogmapetportraits.com
Pampered Pooch V.I.P. Guests who post a photo to social media tagging and following @balboabayresort will be eligible for the Pet of the Month contest featured on Instagram. All V.I.P. Pet of the Month winners will be entered into a drawing at the end of the year to win a free 2-night stay.
“At Balboa Bay Resort, we know the dog is often the star of the family. Now you can give them the celebrity treatment when you travel,” said Francine Slosser, Director of Marketing. “This package includes
everything your furry friend needs to feel welcome and pampered.”
Part of the proceeds of the Pampered Pooch Package will benefit nonprofit Lovebugs Rescue, a foster-based animal rescue located in Southern California that works with overpopulated animal shelters to find forever homes for pets. Visit www.lovegugsrescue.org for more information. And visit www.balboabayresort.com for more information on the Pampered Pooch Package and to make reservations.
OPEN HOUSE!
Balboa Bay Resort threw a fabulous open house member mixer touring the iconic waterfront gem. Guests mingled in the Presidential Suite sipping champagne, sampling amazing poke and snacking on gourmet appetizers. Room tours followed, and then a feast by the bay in the handsome Lighthouse. Finally, poolside steak tacos and Hawaiian Ice over freshly made ice cream tantalized the revelers as live mermaids and mermen swam through the Olympic pool. What a night!
Thank you to our vendors Lola’s Letters, Foto Vibe, and Rosé Rentals for their assitance with this party.
Mark Anenberg
Patrick and Ganice Gormely
Rick and Colleen Wackerbarth
Darry and Susan Tshirn, Kristine and Mark Simon
Angela and Jay Schwamz, Rebecca and Shane Corbin
Terry Kerley and Patsy Gehl
Debbie Shepherd and Candi Urner
Ed and Diane Moreno
Art and Governor Jane Rivera
Justin and Andrea Sharp, Billy Hanck
Elliott Block and Kamia Kinchlow
Alex and Ryan Brown
Donna Martin, Ann Wortmann, Lisa Hallaian
Marina Dutton, Lawrence and Jean Jones
Brian Zatica, Kevin Brennan, Darren Lang
Kurt Schert
A+O RESTAURANT | BAR DEBUTS NEW TEQUILA BAR
FEATURING RARE TEQUILAS AND MEZCALS
BY FRANCINE SLOSSER / PHOTOS COURTESY OF BALBOA BAY RESORT
Dining at A+O Restaurant | Bar just got more exciting with the addition of a new tequila bar located on the patio. The new tequila bar offers tequilas and mezcals that are rare, hard-to-find and distinctive in design and flavor. “The goal is to offer our guests a unique experience when you come to A+O Restaurant | Bar,” says Jason Hsieh, Director of Food and Beverage. “We offer exclusive crystal shot glasses for flights of mezcals as we take you through an experience including different variations of salt like the famous Mexican Bug Salt,” he continued. “You will also be able to enjoy a selection of unique craft cocktails made with tequila and mezcal.”
Along with a variety of tequilas, restaurant patrons can enjoy unique house-made bar snacks including shaved dark chocolate with tandoori masala and caramelized popcorn with peanuts and bacon, which pairs well with añejos, cristalinos and mezcals as well as dehydrated pineapple which pairs well with blancos and reposados, bringing out the sweetness of the agave plant.
The tequila bar is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5:00 PM –10:00 PM.
“I DO”
WEDDING MAGIC AT THE BALBOA BAY RESORT AS CHRISTINA YOUNG AND LUKE EMORY CELEBRATE THEIR VOWS
Following a sentimental traditional Catholic wedding mass at St. John Vianney Chapel on Balboa Island, officiated by Monsignor Lawrence Baird, newlyweds Christina and Luke Emory traveled in a 1947 Ford Woody to the Balboa Bay Resort to be feted by close family and friends with cocktails, dinner and dancing in the Grand Ballroom.
Some 140 guests, local and long distance, began the evening with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the bayfront private dining room on the 2nd floor terrace of the hotel. Three generations of the bride’s family including great grandparents, grandparents and parents have been Bay Club members and longtime residents of Newport Beach. Greeting arrivals for the reception were the bride’s parents, Robert
and Carrie Young, with the bride’s twin sister, Robin, and brother, Ryan. The groom’s parents joined the Youngs welcoming guests. Mark and Ann Emory, Luke’s parents, shared the joyous event with Luke’s sister, Hannah, and her husband, Joe Barone, and Luke’s brothers, Matthew and James Emory.
Christina was radiant in her gown of silk dupion with fitted bodice and plunging neckline. She chose white roses to compliment her dress, repeated on the floral table displays in the BBR ballroom. Centerpieces on the tables overflowed with white-on-white roses mixed with hydrangeas. A scrumptious multicourse chef-curated banquet offering an entrée of Filet Mignon and Seared Chilean Seabass delighted the wedding crowd.
Wedding toasts came from maid of honor Robin Young and the groom’s best man Tyler Knapp recounting cherished memories. There was not a dry eye in the crowd when Christina’s father gave his toast to the newly married couple. Guests rose to their feet on the dance floor to the music from Band N Demand until the Cinderella Hour. Joining the festivities on the dance floor were the bridesmaids: Katie Calder, Kaitlyn Cosenza, Kami Kurisu, Paige Peplow, Hannah Barone and Sarah Frllekin. Also dancing to the beat were the groomsmen: Matthew Emory, James Emory, Zachary Grant, Neil Vranicar, Joseph Barone and Ryan Young. In formal tradition, a lovely wedding cake created by French’s Cupcake Bakery boasted three tiers of marble cake with decadent chocolate fudge filling.
As the music faded into the night, Christina and Luke waved farewell as Christina threw her rose bouquet into the crowd. The couple departed for a 10-day cruise honeymoon from Barcelona, Spain to ports in France and Italy, a gift from the bride’s grandmother, Meral Anderson.
Christina Young Emory is a graduate of Newport Harbor High School and UC Santa Barbara. She is employed by Pacific Life Insurance as a talent acquisition partner. Luke Emory graduated from Esperanza High School and The University of San Diego with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is a project manager for Critchfield Mechanical.
Upon returning from Europe, the couple will reside in Huntington Beach.
The Great Outdoors with Barclay Butera
BY CHRISTINE PHILLIPS FOR BARCLAY BUTERA INTERIORS
When it comes to spectacular design, lifestyle icon Barclay Butera is as famously known for creating jaw-dropping outdoor spaces as he is for his world-renowned interiors. Whether it’s a sunny seaside deck, a magnificent mountain-side veranda, or a sultry desert open-living space, Butera’s touch is magic. Barclay favors sharp, angular pools mixed with soft greenery and fragrant, floral gardens. As with his interiors, symmetry plays a huge part in Butera’s outdoor designs. Incorporating tile, stone and brick into the mix adds structure and defines the space. Fire pits, flowing water and pools are a
must; as Barclay often refers to these spaces as “the fifth room.” They are designed to be a true extension of the home, with colors and textures that flow seamlessly to the outdoors. Mixing materials such as wicker, cast iron, rich all-weather performance fabrics and textiles, outdoor rugs, and of course hypnotic lighting all set the mood. Whether it’s porches, patios or pergolas, Barclay Butera’s legendary talents can transform your outdoor space into the living room of your dreams. Also, make sure to visit www.shopbarclaybutera.com for signature, curated collections to create your very own outdoor oasis!
For more information about interior design services, please contact Jennifer
Delicious Destinations
TRAVELING IN AUGUST? CHECK OUT THESE DINING OPTIONS AROUND THE WORLD
STORY AND PHOTOS BY LANA SILLS
Looking for a culinary adventure? As we are rediscovering the joy of travel, despite pandemic fears and airline delays, August travel brings new experiences and a sense of optimism. Read on as I share my top spots in some of my favorite cities.
ITALY…Chef Massimo Bottura, a worldrenowned chef with a 3-Michelin-star signature restaurant in Modena casts his epicurean spell on his soil-to-plate philosophy and wildly creative reimagining of Italian cuisine. For a Southern California staycation, dine at his impressive restaurant housed in the Gucci
Boutique in Beverly Hills: Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura. It’s a visit to be remembered. Rome is a sprawling, unforgettable city…iconic fountains (especially the fountains in the Piazza Navona), 101 flavors of gelato on your walk to see the Pantheon and the gorgeous Rooftop Terrace at Hotel Raphaël. The Amalfi Coast and Capri are the places of Sorrento lemons for the taste of Limoncello. On my last trip, we learned how to make Limoncello and experienced the exquisite taste of this neon yellow fruit.
LONDON, ENGLAND…J.Sheekey is the ideal restaurant to enjoy delicious seasonal seafood dishes, unique whiskey blends and iconic cocktails. A historical London restaurant for over 100 years in Covent Gardens, its central position is in the theater district. Many years ago, its reputation drew us for dinner after the theater, where we enjoyed a table next to Dame Judy Dench and Maggie Smith right after seeing their magnificent acting at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane (the world’s oldest theater in continuous use since 1663).
It is said that Anna Russell, 7th Duchess of Bedford, invented Afternoon Tea in 1840. The glamorous and elegant Claridge’s Hotel Afternoon Tea is served in the Grand Foyer & Reading Room with over 50 varieties of tea and stunning pastries. The Ritz London has the most charming traditional Afternoon Tea in Mayfair, served in the spectacular surroundings of the hotel’s former Ballroom located in The Ritz Club; it is quite simply, unforgettable.
My personal favorites…St. John Restaurant is nose-to-tail eating; a whole roast pig, the roast bone marrow and parsley salad, the whole baked fish on green and white vegetables, the braised lamb, courgettes and aioli and especially the brown paper bag filled with hot-from-the-oven one dozen Madeleines for dessert, make this a culinary experience not to be missed! St. John won a Michelin star in 2009 which it has humbly retained ever since. Mr. Chow London, opened in 1968 in Knightsbridge, is a most enjoyable experience.
Chef Massimo Bottura
J.Sheekey, LONDON, ENGLAND
The art, the atmosphere, the Peking duck, the noodles, all impeccable!
Borough Market, an historic outdoor market in central London, is a foodie’s haven filled with incredible vendors with amazing displays of various foods; a fun outing, so much variety, a true gem…come hungry! Ottolenghi restaurants are where the flavor combinations are gorgeous and it is always a culinary treat. Browse through his cookbooks before you travel and you will have an idea of what you’re in for.
CHAMPAGNE, FRANCE…Just two hours from Paris, the Champagne region was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015. It houses 260 cellars in this northeastern French province and the tiny bubbles that stream up from stemmed champagne glasses are the real deal. The impressive cellars such as Veuve Clicquot and Maison de Champagne Taittinger are fascinating and historical. We visited G.H. Mumm Champagne House, which was established in Reims in 1827. A visit to the wine cellars of Mumm is highlighted by a maze of underground tunnels and a beautiful display of lights where some 25 million bottles are stored! From the wine cellar to the glass, this centuries-old craft respects tradition and follows the motto of Georges Hermann Mumm: “Only the Best.”
VENICE, ITALY…This romantic and exciting destination has rooftop bars serving fantastic mixology and scrumptious food…..the unique city of Venice is a marvelous destination. I can’t wait to return. I have a vivid memory of crossing the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano to see the beautifully colored
fisherman’s houses, the exceptional lace work and Anthony Bourdain’s favorite restaurant, Trattoria da Romano…a great plate of risotto and fresh local seafood…a lovely way to spend an afternoon…Grazie Infiniti!
MONTE CARLO, MONACO… A Remembrance: Joël Robuchon Monte Carlo was a dining experience not to be missed. Exquisite modern French cuisine located at the Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo. Joël Robuchon’s famous pomme purée was comfort food heaven…buttery and supremely smooth. My memories abound at an epic lunch we had years ago. A butter trolley laden with an assortment of incredible butters and a huge range of homemade breads was presented. Serendipitously, it was the first day of white truffle season and a lovely pasta with shaved white truffles showered on top was the pièce de résistance! It was a daydream. Merci beaucoup Joël Robuchon RIP. Today, Chef Christophe Cussac, a Robuchon protégé, is at the helm offering his own unique culinary experiences at the hotel.
CALIFORNIA…Just inland from the Central Coast, between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Paso Robles is the wine country visit without crowds. This viticultural region has everything you’d want; scenic vineyards, local restaurants, 200 wineries, delicious wines and great shopping. The S’mores Butler will whip up this nostalgic treat at the 16-room Hotel Cheval in downtown Paso after your visit to Eberle off of Hwy 46 or the boutique wineries such as Daou Vineyards and Booker Wines (the best Syrah in Paso).
And, if you can’t get away this August, just turn on the Netflix Original Documentary Series “Somebody Feed Phil.” Phil Rosenthal travels the world meeting chefs and food experts in five seasons full of great humor and glorious adventures (my favorite episodes are Madrid, Finland, Marrakesh, Rio, Singapore). Preparation is key. Plan ahead as far as possible. Give yourself plenty of time. Avoid the gridlock on weekends. Make reservations well in advance. Be flexible. Pack your patience and enjoy your adventure.
PESCE ALL-AGUA PAZZA
(SOUTHERN ITALIAN POACHED FISH)
Minimal effort produces the big payoff in this light and elegant dish. Serve with crusty bread.
1 1/2 pounds skin-on branzino or halibut
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 garlic cloves, sliced thin
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 bay leaf
8 ounces cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 1/4 cups water
1/4 cup dry white wine
12 fresh parsley stems, plus 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: Add a handful of angel hair pasta, broken into short lengths
Season the fish liberally with salt and pepper. Heat oil, garlic and pepper flakes in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bay leaf and season with salt and pepper, cook 3 minutes. Add tomatoes and cook, stirring constantly, until tomatoes soften. Stir in water, wine, parsley stems and half of chopped parsley and bring to a boil. Nestle the fish, skin side down, in liquid. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently until the fish is just cooked through.
Serve the fish in shallow soup bowls. Discard bay leaf and parsley stems. Season broth with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serves 4.
THE MAGIC OF THE HOLY LAND
AN INSPIRING JOURNEY THROUGH SOME 3,000 YEARS OF HISTORY IN ISRAEL
BY MELISSA LAITMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH M. SPRINGER
Only 74 years young with over 3,000 years of history and culture, Israel was formally established on May 14, 1948. Billions regard her as the “Holy Land,” but this beautiful country is also a world leader with respect to technological innovations. With Tel Aviv leading the way, this city thrives on being one of the most contrasting and diverse cities to explore. Being compared to the size of New Jersey, Israel is extremely diverse with deserts, lush green meadows, pristine beaches and urban centers. There are four separate bodies of water surrounding her: the Red Sea, the Dead Sea, the Sea of Galilee and the Mediterranean Sea. The official language of this modern land is both Hebrew and Arabic and the population is approximately 8.1 million, the same as Switzerland. According to Shlomi Granek of Express Tours in Boston, “Israel
is the center of the world…A six-hour drive around the country brings you to places such as the desert, beautiful lakes and snow-covered mountains.” Granek states that the first time you visit, “it feels like home.”
Israel’s capital is Jerusalem where you will find both an old and new section. There is a magical quality about the Old City of Jerusalem that doesn’t exist anywhere else in the world. There are colorful markets with narrow alleyways, and an underground tunnel exposing the full length of the Western Wall (Wailing Wall or Kotel).
Jerusalem is very different than Tel Aviv. For Israelis, they consider it the real ‘Holy Grail’ of Israel. On the other hand, Tel Aviv is so many different things – smart, casual, small, big and always hot. The urban fabric is an interfaced mix of restaurants, bars, boutiques and resident
homes. To understand Tel Aviv, you will need to understand the state of mind of its locals. Granek wants people to know that it is about chilling in a coffee shop, going to the beach, enjoying some Shawarma and Hummus, all in all relaxing and kicking back.
The majorities of people in Tel Aviv speaks English and are usually happy to chat with you and offer up directions, recommendations and such. They love tourists in general, so don’t be afraid to speak with the locals there. Nothing goes to sleep in Tel Aviv. Bars, supermarkets and some restaurants are open all night. Granek says, “Try the Goldstar Beer. It isn’t Guinness, but it is ours and we like it… plus every time you drink it, it tastes a little different.” If you want a real taste of the city, which is quite small (you can fit about 15 Tel Aviv’s in one London) take advantage of one of the green public cycle
stations (Tel-O-Fun). The city also has nice long strips of shaded boulevards that are full of cafes, great architecture and beautiful people. The best time to people-watch is generally on Friday and Saturday which are considered their weekends due to the high holy days which start in the late afternoon on Friday and last until later on Saturday.
Granek also recommends Old Jaffa which is famous for its association with the Biblical stories of Solomon, Jonah and Peter. Explore the parks and narrow cobblestone alleys while making your way to the flea market and enjoying the views of Tel Aviv and the sea. Old Jaffa also offers beautiful furniture shops, trendy cafes and restaurants where you can order up “Masabkha” – a warm plate of ground chickpeas and tahini. It is divine!
Like the Great Salt Lake in Salt Lake City, Utah, the Dead Sea, also called the Salt Sea, is a salt lake bordering Jordan to the east, and Palestine and Israel to the west. Its surface and shores are 1,401 feet (450 meters) below sea level, Earth’s lowest elevation on land. The Dead Sea has attracted visitors from around the Mediterranean basin for thousands of years. Biblically, it was a place of refuge for King David. It was the world’s first health resort (for Herod the Great) and it has been a supplier of a wide variety of products, from balms for Egyptian mummification, to potash for fertilizers. People also use the salt and minerals from the Dead Sea to create cosmetics and sachets.
To the north, you have the green part of Israel. It is home to the Sea of Galilee, the largest freshwater lake in Israel. There are also the green mountains which even has a small ski resort. It is a beloved destination for trekking and camping for Israelis. The Mount Bental overlook is also very beautiful and provides stunning views of Mount Hermon and the Golan Heights. It is also a key strategic point for Israel due to its advantageous observation point.
Express Tours can assist you in setting up your own trekking adventure. In Tel Aviv you can do a culinary tour to Lewinsky market. There is Azrieli climbing and a Rothschild architectural tour. Surfing lessons are also possible or take time out for a Segway tour through the city. In Jerusalem, enjoy a tour of one of the local wineries. There are also ATV tours in the Jerusalem Mountains. In the south, have a sunrise or full moon night tour at Havarei Masada. Swim with the dolphins or visit the Rappelling Ramon Crater. Take a tour of Petra or be a special guest at a Bedouin cultural experience, a fabulous group of nomadic tribes who are very hospitable toward desert travelers. A
stranger could stay as long as 3 days without being asked of his whereabouts. He would be considered and treated as a guest and enjoy the clan’s full protection. When the guests are honored, respected and nourished it is time for the main ritual: the preparation of fresh cardamom-spiced Arabic coffee. The beans are roasted and then pounded in a mortar. A large wooden coffee-grinder is not only used but also played by the Bedouins. The Bedouins of Sinai are peace-loving, cultivated, courteous, joyful, frugal and hospitable despite their poverty. Bedouin culture still survives in Sinai, where there is a growing appreciation of its value and its fragility. Hospitality is in the blood of the Bedouins and wherever one meets Bedouin people in Sinai, the most amazing and lasting experience is exactly this: warmth and kindness.
Up in the northern part of Israel where the Lebanon and Syrian borders are, have fun on an ATV, horseback ride, raft or bike to your heart’s content. There is so much to do there, including Manara Cliff Climbing. Many artists live in this area and it wouldn’t be worth a visit without doing an artist tour.
Israel is extremely safe with very low levels of crime. Tap water is safe for drinking and cafes kick into full swing in the evenings around 11pm or midnight, sometimes even later. Smoking is not allowed inside restaurants or bars. Haggling and bargaining for prices is expected and even required at the markets. Israel is a great place to visit, a lot of fun and extremely interesting! For more information, please contact me at 781.888.7060, I will be more than happy to help you with details of an Israeli vacation among many other areas worldwide.
Melissa Laitman was born in New York City and lives and works in Boston, MA as a travel advisor. For any assistance in setting up a vacation to anywhere in the world, she would be more than happy to help. Email: asland321@live.com or Phone: 781.888.7060
Oh, My Aching Back!
IS BACK PAIN ALL IN YOUR MIND?
BY MICHAEL BRANT-ZAWADZKI MD FACR
Indeed, it is. Pain is processed in your brain. The sensors for any pain experienced are specialized nerve endings throughout your body. Their signals are relayed back to the brain where overtones of emotion weigh in the brain’s perception of those signals. That is why, at the Cleveland Clinic, spine surgery is not done on patients who test positive for depression until that depression is treated and if the pain persists. It is well known that mood and state of mind can significantly influence one’s perception of pain.
Almost all of us will experience back pain. Statistics show that 80% of individuals do. Despite common belief, 85% of all sufferers of back pain cannot be provided a specific cause. Particularly problematic is that imaging is used to try and find such a cause, but imaging can show abnormalities that may be falsely blamed for pain and inappropriately targeted for surgery.
I recall the case of a fellow physician’s wife who developed severe back pain that was shooting down her leg; a classic sciatica. Her MRI scan showed a herniated disc likely irritating a nerve root – innervation in a territory which correlated well with the distribution of her pain. The problem was that she was in her eighth month of pregnancy, and no one wanted an operation. She delivered shortly thereafter and in the bliss of early motherhood the pain went away. The MRI abnormality was forgotten. As she was lugging her now 2 year old son, the future linebacker for the Rams, on her hip, her back pain returned. As the surgeons sharpened their knives, a pre-operative MRI was done. The herniated disc was gone! Her body scarred it down such that it was not an operable target. Likely, the cause of her recurrent pain was muscle strain from the lifting. This is the most common cause of back pain. The spine is enveloped by lots of muscles, ligaments, and joints – all of which have nerve endings that can sense pain from strains or inflammation, and relay that to the brain.
As for back pain being in your mind, here’s another study: Acupuncture performed just as well in treating non-specific back pain (no cause shown on MRI) as other conservative modalities, and sham acupuncture did equally well! We also studied the impact of imaging on people’s perception of their well-being. Telling patients their results of spine MRIs lowered their sense of well-being even if the “abnormal” findings were clinically unimportant. It’s like your mother telling you you’re ugly. It messes with your mind. This is why we recommend not doing MRI in the first six weeks for non-specific back pain, as in the majority of cases it will go away, and you won’t know that your back is less than pretty. Your golf swing will benefit.
Studies of patients with pain symptoms who are treated non-operatively and followed with serial MRIs show that large disc
herniations can go away, and patients’ symptoms may not correlate; herniations get bigger, pain lessens. Or the discs shrink and pain remains or gets worse. Our study of lumbar spine MRIs in normal, asymptomatic people at Hoag (published in the New England Journal of Medicine) showed that 33% had disc herniations. We do not operate on pictures alone, otherwise we would be operating on people with no symptoms. But people whose symptoms are clearly related to abnormal structural causes shown by optimal imaging, ones corresponding to objective physical examination, may need surgery. Surgery can be quite valuable in such carefully selected individuals.
Our health system spent an estimated $380 Billion on low back pain as well as other musculoskeletal issues, three times that spent on cancer and heart disease. That’s 10% of our entire health spending which represents almost 18% of our GDP. So back pain is also a pain in the rear, where we keep our collective wallet.
We know too much spine surgery is being done. The Dartmouth group health analytics team studied rates of surgery across the US and found that spine surgeries per 100,000 individuals occurred up to 20 times as often in cities that had more surgeons. Yet one in three folks with spine surgery end up with chronic back pain issues. Conservative therapy can improve back pain in the majority of individuals, but surgery targeted to a specific cause that correlates well with the patient’s physical and neurological picture can relieve pain almost the next day. We also now use minimally invasive techniques that can let the patient go home the same day.
A comprehensive neuro-spine program, like Hoag’s, does its best to carefully diagnose the cause, start with conservative therapy, and only consider surgery as a last option, with minimally invasive, muscle-sparing approaches. Otherwise, it may be like going to a barber shop and asking if you need a haircut.
A Glamorous Night At Balboa Bay Resort
GLAMOR AND PURPOSE CAME TOGETHER IN THE HOTEL BALLROOM FOR THE ANNUAL “LET’S BE FRANK ABOUT CANCER”
Black-tire dinner fundraiser benefitting The City of Hope and cancer research under the direction of Dr. Sumatra Pal with event founder Frank DiBella once again at the helm. Honored donor for the night was the uber-generous Marybelle Musco.
Diane Knowland and Kevin Trussell (Gala Host Committee member)
Sumanta Kumar Pal M.D (center) with Fellow JoAnn Hsu and COH GU Research Team Members
Sumanta Pal, MD and Marybelle Musco
Guest hanging his wish on the Wishing Tree Natalie Ngo and Anthony Ngo
Ryan Smith, (Let’s be Frank Committee Member and son of late committee member Wayne Smith)
Randy Fine and Heidi Landgraff
The Wishing Tree Table
Just The Facts
MOST FINANCIAL ADVISORS SHOW HYPOTHETICAL (NOT ACTUAL) PORTFOLIO PERFORMANCE HISTORY
BY IVAN ILLÁN
During periods of heightened market volatility, folks are prudent to seek out advice. If you’re in the market for a financial advisor (FA), or evaluating whether to fire your current one, it’s fair play to focus on an advisor’s performance. However, most investors, regardless of their sophistication or experience, do not realize that most FAs do not even have a particular portfolio performance history that they are able to formally share with the public, due to complex regulations issued by the SEC and FINRA. In this article, I’ll shine some light into the “black box” of performance depictions, as typically presented by financial advisors through investment proposals.
First, let’s be clear as to what “performance history” means in the context of being a prospective investor. Usually, when performance is presented in an investment proposal sent to you from a typical financial advisor, it contains something called “hypothetical performance.” Most proposal software used in the financial services industry consists of a selection of securities (whether mutual funds, ETFs, stocks, etc.) being proposed for your investment. To be clear, this proposal does not necessarily represent an actual portfolio or performance history that this financial advisor has managed over time. Instead,
a hypothetical proposal is a representation of the FA’s ability to select portfolio constituents which may likely contain a more favorable performance history. This is dubious at best, and misrepresentative at worst. A great FA would articulate and emphasize that a hypothetical proposal and its performance history is not indicative of any actual portfolio or results that produced for any other client. You would be on a path towards building confidence in such an advisor.
When I was working for a Fortune 500 investment management company in the 1990s, our clients were big investment banking firms. The FAs at those and other firms are quite competitive in their quest for more assets under management. No one would fault them for wanting to grow their practices, but how transparent are they in informing prospective clients about the service being provided? Today, I still see hypothetical investment proposals from those firms. I’m amazed that the same non-transparent sales pitches used back then are still being used. Bottom line, when it comes to investment proposals, hypothetical performance has become an industry standard on illustrating historical performance to prospective investors – and there’s not enough verbal communication to help folks understand the difference.
Here’s a little more inside baseball on hypothetical portfolio presentations. When an FA enters proposed portfolio holdings into their illustration program, the system typically assumes that those exact holdings, as entered in the system, have been held in the exact weightings over the past 10+ years. However, many holdings because of near-term inception dates or fund conversions/mergers don’t even have 10-year track records. In this scenario, the illustration program excludes those holdings during those periods that they didn’t exist in the portfolio’s hypothetical illustrated performance history. You can start
to appreciate that there are several issues with even how representative a hypothetical history could be, not to mention how an investor might possibly develop erroneous performance expectations.
Regulatory bodies that supervise corporate registered investment advisors, under which so many investment advisor representatives operate, mandate clearly written disclosures to assist investors in understanding what they’re looking at. Retail investors are not experts in this field and are dependent upon the clarity conveyed to them. It would be better for clients if FAs just said, “This investment proposal is a hypothetical performance history, which is not a real performance history for any portfolio that I’ve managed, nor did this happen to any client of mine and certainly this performance won’t happen to you in the future.”
There are some FAs through their independent registered investment advisor firm that could show a prospective investor their firm’s actual performance return. The SEC provides rulemaking and guidance that must be adhered to in these types of communications. Performance track records, how they are illustrated, and with what disclosures are specifically covered. If you’re looking for a new investment manager/financial advisor, simply ask them to provide you with the recommended portfolio’s independently audited, net of fees performance. Several FAs/investment managers in the marketplace maintain such records.
There are great financial advisors/investment managers in the marketplace who go through painstaking detail to ensure their clients understand what service they are providing or not providing and how much money they’re being paid for the privilege. Too often, retail investors believe their money manager is doing something that they may not, which is a huge opportunity for improvement.
Together We Can Eradicate Cancer
KURE IT CANCER RESEARCH HOLDS ITS 5TH ANNUAL RIVALS CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT AT PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB. THE EVENT ATTRACTS 149 GOLFERS INCLUDING BIG NAMES IN SPORTS BYRON SCOTT, JANIE BUSS, JOSEPH BARTON, JOSHUA BARTON, AND BRIAN PHILLIPS.
Steve Simpkin, Dave Renecker, and John Ursini
Tyus Edney, Tony Bailey, Joe Torry and Michael Blair
Paul McDonald, center, with his sons, Andrew McDonald, left, and Michael McDonald, right
Rivals Cup Co-Chairs Burton Young, Todd Perry and Andy Chaffee
Steve Beuerlein and Paul McDonald
Jennifer and Charles Byerly
Joey Moccia
Joseph Barton, Joshua Barton and Brian Phillips
Short Term Rentals
A DELICATE LEGAL BALANCE BETWEEN INDIVIDUAL PROPERTY OWNERS RIGHTS AND THE RIGHTS OF THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE
BY ALEX CHAZEN
With the onset of summer (and therefore tourist season) in full swing, short term rentals, and their impact on the housing market is front and center. This is a complicated issue, from several different angles.
I was immediately reminded of an article from a few years ago discussing the impact of short-term rentals coming into the Garden District in New Orleans. There, local residents were being outpriced by corporate investment and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) purchasing homes, doing minor renovations, and then immediately listing them for rent on sites like AirBnB or VRBO. It got to the point that the city council ended up banning new short-term rentals and completely reworking the permitting for those types of offerings in order to attempt to bring more permanent, and local, residents back to the district. Those new ordinances are still working their way into existence, with the last of the pre-2019 permits just now expiring, and the implications of the new laws on investment in the city and upkeep to those homes have yet to be seen.
Locally, for much longer, we have seen the influx of renters coming for a week at a time to the Balboa Peninsula or Balboa Island, right here in Newport Beach. However, for many, the use of a rental agent to lease out a home for the summer seems to hit differently than listings on those popular vacation rental apps. Two years ago, between June and October 2020, the Newport Beach City Council implemented its own restrictions for short term rentals, including a three-night minimum stay, a cap on the number of permits offered to be able to lease out your property to a short-term renter, and the
implementation of a waitlist for those who could not get a permit. Again, in only two years, it is difficult to determine what the overall impact in the community will be due to those restrictions.
At the heart of the issue is a complicated give-and-take between several interests, all of which impact the value of the properties that surround the short-term rental, and the desirability of neighborhoods. These fights are being debated across the country, from popular destinations to beach towns. Many will argue that allowing REITs and venture capital firms to come in and purchase properties allows for reinvestment and that they will provide for upkeep in a way that some locations desperately need. Others will retort that short-term rentals lead to a constant shifting of people in residential neighborhoods that could increase the incidents of crime due to the lack of familiarity with neighbors.
Many popular summer destinations on the east coast are battling these interests, with Maine, Connecticut, and Rhode Island voters are all voting this year on new restrictions on the short-term rental industry. Time will tell how these ordinances and ballot propositions really impact neighborhoods and the property values that, in many cases, attract people to the locale in the first place.
As with all things, and as we move into a more connected world, real estate, and the issues that govern it, are often at the forefront. After all, in a world where you can work from anywhere, you can also live almost anywhere. But the old norms of real estate – living in a home no longer than necessary, getting a larger home for a larger family, and then downsizing as you grow older, have given way to a generation of always wanting more space, more size, and more prestige from a new zip code. Many people never learn that the mortgage interest deduction on our tax returns, which can also be a thorny subject for Californians, started as a way to encourage home ownership in the middle class. The hope was that people would purchase a home, move into suburbs, and grow families, who in turn would do the same. However, along the way, people realized that holding real estate could be a very important investment, and that moving houses to fit your family, rather than fitting your family into your house, could have negative investment outcomes.
This has led to a generation that is much more eager to rent than to buy, and which, in the long run, could have a major impact on the real estate prices that continue to be the driving factor in many of the decisions that people make–from where to apply to jobs, to whether to start a family, to whether to buy a home at all. As always, it’s important to remember that every small short-term action may have an even deeper long-term implication.
USC & UCLA Announce Plans to Leave The Pac-12
NEARLY 100 YEARS OF COLLEGE SPORTS HISTORY MAY COME TO AN END
BY RYAN G. COOK
For the second year in a row, collegiate athletics was completely shaken by conference realignment. Last year, it was Texas and Oklahoma leaving the Big 12 for the SEC. This year it is USC and UCLA. USC joined the Pacific Coast Conference in 1922 and has been part of the Pac-12 ever since. UCLA joined the Pac-12 in 1928.
So, what happened and why did USC and UCLA change conferences, a move that would alter the future of the college athletic conference alignment into, yet again, complete chaos? The bigger question is what happens now to the Pac-12, more importantly Oregon, Stanford, and UW football? For sake of this article, we shall hold the topic until a later date, and focus on USC and UCLA.
The move took place at the Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas this past June during the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics Convention, NACDA. Unbeknownst to all in attendance, USC’s Mike Bohn, and UCLA’s Martin Jarmond, had been working quietly for months on the strategic move. The Big Ten courtship accelerated so quickly that everyone was caught completely off guard, an absolute strategic play. Some ADs learned about the moves on their flights home from NACDA and many were on vacation, including Pac-12 commissioner George Kliavkoff, who found out while traveling in Montana.
The big question is why, however it doesn’t take much digging to understand. It’s all about the money, or as Jerry Maguire said, “Show me the money.” In 2024 the Big Ten will sign a new TV deal worth $1 billion a year, meaning 16 teams will split it, including USC and UCLA. Each school will average $63 million per year which is about double what the Pac-12 deal was/is paying out. Now add all other revenue sources including ticket sales, sponsorships, bowl games, NCAA March Madness, etc., and the revenue is significant. USC also noted that starting this upcoming academic year, all athletes could receive up to $5,980 annually in “direct financial support in the form of academic achievement awards, consistent with the Supreme Court’s recent Alston ruling.” USC will have the means to increase that number substantially in two years.
The world of college athletics is changing as we know it and one thing is for sure, it will never be the same. In today’s society, money matters more than ever before, and to the sports purist, it’s no longer for the love of the game. It’s all about the Benjamins…
MELINDA NAGY
Reaching some 20,000 qualified readers each month since 1948, Bay Window is the longest running direct mailed luxury lifestyle magazine in Orange County representing the Balboa Bay Club, Newport Beach County Club and Balboa Bay Resort, in addition to covering all kinds of community, social, business, and lifestyle topics relative to the community at large.
Please inquire for placement, rates and more information. Reach qualified clients with the exclusive Bay Window mailing list. Please contact The Bay Window Magazine Call: Bruce Cook 949.630.4515, Laurie Veitch 949.630.4517 Or email at: bcook@balboabayclub.com
