JOSH AND MATT ALTMAN
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
EVENTS 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
MARKETING COORDINATOR
Lanee Alatorre
DIRECTOR OF SALES
Kamia Kinchlow
CLUB SECRETARY
Sandy MacIntyre
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER EXPERIENCE
Fabrizio Khalona
DIRECTOR OF SPA OPERATIONS
Linnea Robertson
DIRECTOR OF LEASING
Laura Bryan
DIRECTOR OF MARINA OPERATIONS
Captain Troy Heidemann
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
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.
JON FLAGG
Bruce Cook Editor
Collaborator/designer
Dear Friends,
The May cover of Bay Window is a nod to the new generation of “beach moms” and their kids, all coming of age living the good life in the idyllic enclave of Newport Beach. Our cover models represent generations of Bay Club families.
On the right, Sabrina Chazen and her 4-year-old son Beau, a 4th generation BBC kid, is clearly having a wonderful day and a very big laugh with his mom.
On the left, Cologne Trude embraces her son, Range. Note the vintage Bay Window cover photo dating to August 1993 below. Cologne is the third from right on the raft with friends Vanessa and Sasha Dunlap and the Fallon sisters. Cologne is our returning Cover Girl 29 years later.
There is more to our Mother’s Day cover story than the obvious good looks and good fortune of two young mom models. Both are serious entrepreneurs in their own right. Cologne Trude and her business partner Cammy Miller (see photo of Miller, Trude, Chazen and BBC kids) lead the nationally celebrated fashion brand Mumu (Show Me Your Mumu or SMYM). Meeting at UC Berkeley, Cologne and Cammy shared a dream of creating fashion. Following graduation, they moved to New York to learn the ropes and eventually moved back to LA with a “start-up loan” and launched their brand. The pair of creative businesswomen filled a void in the fashion industry for youthful, contemporary, and lightweight easy fitting fashionable clothing made of chic prints and fabric, wearable from casual to dressy. Our Bay Window cover moms are showing off original Mumu designs, also made in coordinating clothing for children worn by Range and Beau.
Over the last several years SMYM has captured an international following. Its presence online and in stores nationwide has expanded from prêt-à-porter to maternity, bridesmaid, and what are being called “mini collections” in collaboration with like-minded women designers. Cologne and partner Cammy, who also happens to be another BBC kid and former club swim team member, is the daughter of Bobby Herbert, Jr., known as the “Cajun Cannon” former quarterback for the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons, among other teams. The Mumu founders collaborated with Sabrina Chazen who designed a “mini collection” spring-summer 2022 for SMYM in a limited edition. A portion of Sabrina’s design collaboration with SMYM graces our models on the May 2022 cover, and on this page as well.
Cologne sums up the life and business philosophy of SMYM and certainly that of so many moms of their new and vibrant generation.
“We believe in clothing for all, clothing that celebrates life’s moments, clothing that makes life fun, and clothing inspired by our ever changing culture. We have built a strong community that stands for true friendship, acceptance and the desire to uplift women to feel positive and confident in their own bodies.” She continues, “We highlight diverse women through our imagery and collaborators and continue extending our size range further than most competitors in the contemporary space. Every piece is designed for you, by an inspiring women-based team, right here in the US.” Finally, Cammy finishes the pitch. “As life comes at you, no matter who you are or where you are, Mumu is along for the ride. Life is fun, your clothes should be too.”
A dose of Mother’s Day inspiration. Powerful young women, and a powerful success story. The perfect start for our May issue filled with inspiration; life-enhancing stories, people, events, and commentary. On theme, be sure to read our fashion feature this month on two other very prominent women, both respected doctors, by style editor Carole Pickup. Travel writer Patrick O’Donnell takes us to South America for the first of a two-part adventure extraordinaire. Acclaimed designer Barclay Butera provides an elegant pictorial spread on current home interior design trends.
All this plus our exploration of all the happenings at NBCC, BBC and BBR, including information on all of the dining options for Mother’s Day.
Life is good, make the most of every day. Hug your mom. Happy and healthy Mother’s Day, every day.
Best, Bruce
Cologne Trude on raft with friends on August 1993 Bay Window Cover
Design collaborator Sabrina
Chazen with Mumu partners
Cologne Trude and Cammy Miller with all their kids
Sabrina
Chazen with Cologne Trude and children wear summer white from the Mumu Collection
Courage And Conviction
NEW DIRECTIONS FOR WOMEN HOSTS ITS ANNUAL FUNDRAISER BREAKFAST AT BALBOA BAY RESORT BENEFITTING WOMEN SEEKING A PATH TO RECOVERY FROM ADDICTION
Anne and John Huffman with Devon Martin
Mike Burns, Kevin Martin and Chris Cloherty
Andrea Ellis, Christin Forman and Ellen Eddington
Joe Moody and Caroline Davenport
Luna Hernandez with Emily Jackson
Carole Pickup and Devon Martin
Ms. America International 2021, Darlene Quinn Allison and Dan Carracino
New Directions for Women Board Chair Barbara Wiggs-Nelson
Jim Wilder and sister Allison Wilder (their mother Pamela Wilder was the founder of New Directions for Women)
And The Grammy Goes To…
THE PACIFIC CHORALE AND ITS ARTISTIC DIRECTOR ROBERT ISTAD WIN 2022 GRAMMY AWARD FOR “CHORAL PERFORMANCE”
(L-R) Pacific Chorale CEO Andrew Brown and Artistic Director Robert Istad attending the 64th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony on April 3, 2022, in Las Vegas, NV. Pacific Chorale won the 2022 Grammy Award for Choral Performance.
National Children’s Chorus Artistic Director Luke McEndarfer, Los Angeles Master Chorale Music Director Grant Gershon, Los Angeles Children’s Chorus Artistic Director Fernando Malvar-Ruiz, and Pacific Chorale Artistic Director Robert Istad pose with their joint 2022 Grammy Award for Choral Performance
Accepting the 2022 Grammy Award for Choral Performance at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony on April 3, 2022, in Las Vegas, NV.
Robert Istad, Artistic Director of Pacific Chorale
Artistic Director Robert Istad conducts Pacific Chorale
Members of Pacific Chorale
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PACIFIC CHORALE
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Navigating our clients through one of the most unique real estate markets in history.
Our team ended the first quarter of 2022 and helped 31 clients achieve their real estate goals, totaling over $67 million both closed and in escrow.
Teamwork, passion, and dedication to each and every client, no matter what price point. We are here for you.
Annie Clougherty
Tootsie and Pretty Woman Coming To Town
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS INTRODUCES TWO BROADWAY MUSICALS OF CULT-CLASSICS TO THE STAGE!
There’s something about the movie magic within the transformation of Michael Dorsey in Tootsie or Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman that’s truly unforgettable. Get ready to love them all over again on the big stage with their musical adaptations.
The Broadway renditions of the classic films will be at Costa Mesa’s award-winning Segerstrom Center for the Arts with tickets as low as $28! The comedy musical, Tootsie makes its Center debut May 31- June 12, followed by Pretty Woman: The Musical July 5-July 17.
These nostalgic cult classics are iconic for
a reason, and these movies made audiences across the world laugh and cry in the 80s and 90s. The musicals still have your favorite moments from the big screen, but new editions including music and choreography adapt these stories to fit the stage in an exciting and unique way.
Both Broadway musicals gave an impressive performance at the 2019 Tony Awards. Tootsie walked away with the Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical and Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical. Pretty Woman captured the hearts of a more intimate audience, winning 3 Audience Choice Awards and breaking the box office record four times
at Broadway’s Nederlander Theatre their first year on Broadway.
Movie-makeover fans, now is the time to get your tickets for these highly anticipated musical adaptations that have already made a big splash on Broadway. Drew Becker’s take on Michael Dorsey is both heartfelt and hilarious in Tootsie, and the magnetic stage chemistry between Adam Pascal and Olivia Valli (portraying Edward Lewis and Vivian Ward, respectively) adds undeniable charm to Pretty Woman
Ready to fall in love with the stories we will never forget? Visit us at SCFTA.org or call 714-556-2787
Pretty Woman The Musical
LIVE THE LIDO LIFESTYLE
Olga Matthews
126 VIA KORON | FOR LEASE Lido Isle | Price Upon Request
3 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms + 2 half bathrooms | 3,400 approx. sq. ft. residence + Oversized lot
Great opportunity to enjoy Lido Lifestyle in this beautiful Mediterranean Style home. The Lido Community has activities for all ages including clubhouse and marina, private beach, tennis courts and children playgrounds. Take a short bicycle ride to the Lido Marina Village with world-class dining, shopping and entertainment.
Serving the coastal communities for the past 30 years.
OLGA MATTHEWS 949 922 5577
omatthews@villarealestate.com
DRE No. 00483564
A Nod To 55 Years Of Exemplary Business, Culture And Philanthropy in Orange County
SOUTH COAST PLAZA CELEBRATES ITS ANNIVERSARY IN STYLE WITH A DINNER RECEPTION AT THE MICHELIN STAR KNIFE + PLEAT RESTAURANT ON ITS PENTHOUSE LEVEL
Grant Wu (World Journal) Allison Mitchell (editor-in-chief, Rivera OC)
Kedric Francis (Blue Door) Todd Harmonson (editor-in-chief, Orange County Register)
Benjamin Epstein (Orange Coast Magazine, contributor) and Alan Gibbons (Orange Coast Magazine, editor-in-chief)
Christopher Gialanella (Riviera, publisher) and Lynn Liou (Influencer)
Anton Segerstrom
Debra Gunn Downing Restaurateur Yassmin Sarmadi, pastry chef Germain Biotteau, chef Tony Esnault
Tablescape by White Lilac
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
Leticia Rice General Manager
Balboa Bay Club
Dear Members,
Happy Mother’s Day to all our Balboa Bay Club Moms! A mother’s work is never done, and it can be the most challenging job in the world while at the same time being the most fulfilling job you will ever know. No matter how old they get or how many miles away they may be, your children will always be your babies in your heart. You worry about them and want the best for them, and you will undoubtedly embarrass them at some point but hey kids, give mom a break, it is only because she loves you!
Speaking of love, we would love to see you for Mother’s Day Bruch! Beautiful Mother’s Day Brunches are planned for Members Grill and Balboa Bay Resort’s Ballroom so be sure to make your reservations early. Yes, Dad we are talking to you. Whether you call her mom, stepmom, foster mom, adoptive mom, birth mom, sister, aunt, or friend we hope you will come celebrate her with us!
May also marks the unofficial start to summer so be on the lookout for the return of all your summer favorites like our summer concert series and weekend Burger Bashes, but be ready to welcome some new offerings as well as member mixers and fun for the kids.
Calling all Marina members, do not forget to make a reservation for the Marina Tenant Appreciation Party on Saturday, May 14th! Join us from 4 – 7 pm on the Members Lawn as we celebrate you and thank you for choosing the Bay Club Marina as your home port! For more information on this or any of our events, stop by the Club Desk or give them a call at 949-630-4120.
On behalf of all your friends here at BBC, we wish you a Happy Mother’s Day and look forward to welcoming you at the Club.
Leticia
May Calendar
It’s our pleasure to invite you to our All-Inclusive private property on the bank of Montana’s Clark Fork River. In a sea of ranches across the wild West, RiverView Ranch is a breath of fresh Montana air.
With over 1,000 acres of land to explore, lavish accomodations, and countless adventures to be had, RVR is Montana’s best kept secret. Reserve the entire Ranch for the family vacation of a lifetime or one of our exquisite suites for a romantic getaway. We promise you will keep coming back for more.
Please mention the code RVRSUMMER at the time of booking for a 10% discount and complimentary Exclusive Experience of your choice.
406-382-9020 www.riverviewranch.com guestservices@riverviewranch.com
May Member Events 2022
BY AARON TRENT AND MELANIE HERTRICK YOUR BBC DIRECTORS OF FUN
WEEKEND BRUNCH ON THE BAY
EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Enjoy Chef Jacob’s fabulous Brunch on the Bay. All your favorite specialty items including Avocado Toast, Eggs Benedict, Huevos Steak Rancheros and Crispy Fried Chicken ‘n’ Waffles. Kids will love Captain Crunch French toast, delicious Belgian Waffles, and Buttermilk Pancakes hot off the griddle! Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
EXPERIENCE “A LITTLE ITALY” AT THE CLUB
EVERY SUNDAY NIGHT
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Join us in Members Grill for our delicious Italian dinner night. Chef Jacob’s Italian Classics Menu will include savory Italian favorites you are sure to love. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
FIESTA TACO TUESDAYS
EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
Come enjoy Chef Jacob’s delicious Menu Items! Taco Man Station featuring Carne Asada, Chicken or Fish Tacos, Seafood Ceviche, Tijuana Caesar Salad, Enchiladas, Dessert Station
and more. Plus, Margarita Specials and live Mariachi music, performed just for you. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
CINCO DE MAYO
THURSDAY, MAY 5
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Come celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Chef Jacob’s authentic Mexican Lunch and Dinner menu selections, topped off with Mexican Beer and Margarita specials from the bar. For dinner (5:00 pm – 8:00 pm) hear live Mariachis perform. It’s a Fiesta Muy Grande at the BBC! Reservations required. Limited seating available. Please call 949.630.4290 for reservations to join us.
PRIME RIB THURSDAYS
THURSDAY, MAY 12, 19 AND 26
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM • MEMBERS GRILL
Join us for Chef Jacob’s 3-course Prime Rib Dinner, starting with a petite classic Caesar, followed by 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.
MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AT THE CLUB
SUNDAY, MAY 8 • 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
Treat Mom to a special day here at the Club. Executive Chef Jacob Davis proudly prepares delicious brunch offerings of Prime Rib of Beef, Scottish Salmon, Appetizer Station, Omelet Station, Raw Bar Station, and of course, delicious Desserts and Specialty Treats. Live Music. Seating is limited. Cancellation policy of $25 per person in effect. Reservations required, please call 949.630.4290.
MOTHER’S DAY BUFFET BRUNCH AT BALBOA BAY RESORT
SUNDAY, MAY 8 • 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM GRAND BALLROOM AND THE TERRACE
Join us in the Resort’s elegant Grand Ballroom for Executive Chef Prabeen’s spectacular, allyou-can-eat brunch, featuring live music and sparkling wine upon arrival. Come celebrate Mom with family and friends, and feast on our extravagant buffet. BBC Member Discount applies. 7-day cancellation policy in effect. Please email specialevents@balboabayresort.com with your member number to make a reservation.
LADIES BUNCO NIGHT
MONDAY, MAY 16 • 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
LIBRARY
Make reservations quickly to join us for the fast-paced dice game of Bunco. This event sells out quickly. House wine and snacks included. Bring $12 cash for game buy-in, all monies awarded at the end of the games. Even the biggest loser can come home the biggest winner! Space is limited. A Members Only event. 48hour cancellation policy in effect. Reservations required, please call 949.630.4120.
TOY STORY BINGO NIGHT
THURSDAY, MAY 19 • 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM BAY VIEW ROOM
Join us for a Toy Story themed night of fun. A full hour of festive, fast-paced bingo games and 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.
MEMORIAL WEEKEND THEMED MOVIE BUCKETS!
WEDNESDAY, MAY 25 (AVAILABLE FOR PICK-UP BETWEEN 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Gather your family and join us for a movie
night at home. Complete the experience with your very own pre-made Patriotic Movie Night Bucket. Order your 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.
DAOU WINERY RECEPTION AND DINNER
FRIDAY, MAY 27 • 6:00 PM RECEPTIONDINNER STARTS PROMPTLY AT 6:30 PM (NO LATE ENTRY) • LIGHTHOUSE ROOM
Featuring the iconic Paso Robles vineyard represented by the DAOU brand ambassador team and a five-course dinner expertly paired by BBR Executive Chef Prabeen. Members will get the opportunity to purchase wine dinner tickets before the general public. 21 years and over only. Special Member Pricing! Email specialevents@ balboabayresort.com to purchase tickets.
MEMORIAL
WEEKEND FUN WITH KONA ICE!
SATURDAY, MAY 28 • 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
MEMBER POOLSIDE
Just for the kids, come get your favorite flavors of Kona Shaved Ice, compliments of the Club. Parents will enjoy the Member’s Pool Bar featuring great drinks and ice-cold beers on tap. Our tra-
ditional beachside BBQ will be open and grilling up summer favorites. Soak up the sun, cool off in the pool and listen to great poolside music.
MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION
MONDAY, MAY 30 • 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM MEMBERS LAWN & BEACH
Celebrate Memorial Day in style while you kick back and relax at your Club’s own private beach. Our Chef’s will be grilling up BBC’s famous Power Burgers, Hot Dogs and more while Smoothies & Mai Tais are served ice cold at the Pool Bar. D.J. Eric Miles returns to keep kids entertained with fun games and more activities on the lawn. Members only, No guests.
BALBOA BAY CLUB SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS NIGHT
TUESDAY, MAY 31 • 5:30 PM GRAND BALLROOM
All 1221 Club Members, BBC Governors and Club Officials are invited to attend this very special night. School Principals, Counselors, Parents and their graduating High School Student nominees will also attend this year’s Awards Night. It is truly an honor to meet such amazing students, hear their dreams and support their future academic endeavors. The Club will again award over $100,000 in Scholarships this year. Reservations required, please call 949.630.4120.
Selby Gillett Director of Membership
The Summer Season Approaches With Excitement
MEMBERS DISCOVER THE WIDE RANGE OF AMENITIES AT THE CLUB
By Selby Gillett, Director of Membership
It feels GOOD to be back at the Balboa Bay Club! Like coming back home after a summer vacation. Admittedly a little bittersweet as it does mean I get fewer hours each day with my sweet little baby girl, but also so comforting to be back in the routine, seeing old friends, and being the one people come to for answers occasionally instead of that fragile new mom feeling of never really knowing what the right way is to do anything.
I’d like to give a special shout out to Christine Nuñez for all her hard work while I was out on leave. She truly helped keep the membership department running and we are fortunate to have her as a part of the team.
I’m so excited to be back and at it and can’t believe that we already find ourselves on the precipice of summer! Over the past several weeks it’s been a real joy getting back into the groove, so to speak. As I’ve conducted my tours with prospective members, I’ve found myself with a refreshed appreciation for all we have to offer–facilities, events, and community alike; almost as if I’m experiencing it all for the first time right alongside them. How lucky am I to have a job that I was anxious to come back to? I can only imagine how much joy this place must bring for those of you who don’t have to spend part of your time behind a desk while here. As we head into the summer season, I invite you to recall the excitement you felt as a new member and take a peek at the Club through that perspective. I think you’ll find it pretty special.
“Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
Please join me in welcoming:
GRAY FAMILY
“We are looking forward to creating lifelong memories for our family and being a part of the Balboa Bay Club community for many years to come.”
RASCH FAMILY
“We are looking forward to taking advantage of the great weather by spending family time at the Bay Club beach and pool. Our girls are most excited about the slide that comes out in summer!”
DINAPOLI FAMILY
“We are so excited to be a part of the Balboa Bay Club and look forward to spending summers on the beach and making new memories.”
Having A Great Hair Day!
STOP IN AT DRYBAR FOR INSTANT GRATIFICATION
BY RACHEL REITKOPP
When I’m having a good hair day, I feel like I can take on the world.
A put-together appearance is like armor. Sure, having fantastic hair won’t make me bulletproof, but it will make me feel invincible, and that’s what counts.
In my opinion, there is nothing more attractive than a group of confident women. What better way for women to feel like they can empower other women than coming together for an all-new do? Whether you want to bring your bride tribe in to take on the world or want to give your birthday
girl and her besties the confidence boosts every young lady should have, the drybar is the perfect place for birthday parties, bridal showers, or just a girls’ nights out.
At Balboa Bay Club we have been lucky enough to have our very own drybar location on property. The Club has now teamed with drybar to give our members one more option for creative parties with their friends.
So, what is a drybar? drybar is a hair salon that exclusively provides blowouts. This includes a wash, blow dry and style. No cuts, no color, just an unforgettable morning of
relaxation, beautification, and joy! drybar also offers additional services such as a 10-minute scalp massage to really enhance your morning of leisure.
A woman’s hair is one of the most noticeable parts of her exterior beauty. It can heighten her personality and set the tone for the entire look. A bad hair day is just a bad day. Getting together with your closest friends at the drybar will make any day a great day. Call 949-630-4312 or email me directly at rreitkopp@balboabayclub.com to book your next blowout bash!
A Royal Occasion
BBC PRINCESS POWER AND POISE ON FULL DISPLAY AT MOMMY AND ME PRINCESS TEA
Elsa and Julia Meehan
Caile and Michelle Peck
Hayley and Olivia Misetich
Erin and Leighton Gutenplan
Charlotte and Alexis Kralik
Cassidy and Kimberly Stokes
Chloe Krebs, Everly Robinson, Bianca Dainard, Lauren Krebs
Beverly and Liz Holt
Cameron and Summer Finn
Kayden and Savannah Snyder
Emila and Adriana Vourakis
Hailey and Tara Loew
Janet and Karissa Lee
Reagan and Allison Smith
Julia and Andrea Meehan
Paige and Laura Nelson
Lindsey and Antalya Soylemez
Stella Suryan
Pamela Peterson and Pamie Pavlovich
Taylor Foscue
Summer Sinclair
Karen and Lilley Beckham
Relaxed Elegance On The Bay
THE QUINTESSENTIAL WATERFRONT TWO-BEDROOM, TWO-BATH RESIDENCE HANDSOMELY REMODELED AND TASTEFULLY DECORATED REPRESENTS THE BALBOA BAY RESIDENTIAL STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE IN NEWPORT BEACH.
To learn more about the BBC residence lifestyle, please contact Laura Bryan at 949-630-4379
And The Winner Is…
THE SLAP HEARD AROUND THE WORLD AT THE 2022 ACADEMY AWARDS… AND AT THE BBC PARTY IN MEMBERS GRILL TOO!
Mike Kincaid
Kenry Nielson Koch, Cristina Nielson
Axel, Alex and Erin Pirro
Rob and Erika Goe, Jaclyn and Patrick Lacy
Jacqueline Fox, Deborah Ellsworth, Carol Vetere
Caston and Ronald Herrick Kelly and Elizabeth Steinke
Alex and Lori Diaz
Bernadette and Raouf Halim
Ryan Williams, Brandon, Brayden and Rochelle Aiyuk
Ruben and Aliza Pasandi
Ryand and Ginny Gallagher, Kavous and Cyndi Gitibin
SPRING SWIM TEAM MAY 9TH – JUNE 8TH
Spring Practice Monday & Wednesday afternoons starting at 3:30pm
FOR SWIMMERS AGE 5 & UP
In our Spring Swim Team program, children will be developing stroke work & flip turns in a fun team environment. We will also be building strength, stamina & endurance as well as participate in 2 swim meets.
Call Recreation for more information on registration
SUMMER SKIPPERS CAMP
June 20th – 24th
June 27th – 30th
July 5th – 8th
July 18th – 22nd
July 25th – 29th
August 1st – 5th
August 15th – 19th 9am – 2pm
FOR CHILDREN AGE 4 & UP
Join us for the best summer ever at BBC! Every day will consist of fun-filled activities your children won’t want to miss!
JUNIOR MINI GUARDS
JUNE 13TH – 16TH, JULY 11TH – 14TH & AUGUST 8TH – 11TH 9:30AM – 12:30PM
AGES 5-7
Children will learn about ocean settings & atmosphere while building their physical endurance. Camp will focus on self-awareness & water confidence. The days incorporate fun-filled activities on land & in water. Kids will have a blast all while gaining knowledge on nutrition and health as well as basic first aid safety.
MAY SPECIAL
With every facial booking, receive 30% off ONE skin care product of your choice.
With every massage booking, receive 30% off ONE body care product of your choice.
No other discounts apply and final sale on all items purchased.
ON MAY 8TH RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF BUBBLY WITH ANY SPA TREATMENT.
Create Your Own Luxury Footprint in Newport Beach at the Legendary Balboa Bay Club Residences
Orange County’s most exclusive address, the waterfront apartments at 1221 West Coast Highway, features the most spectacular coastal views along with platinum services and amenities.
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INSIDE THE RARIFIED WORLD OF NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB
Shelton General Manager
Dear NBCC Members,
As I write this article, I am celebrating my first anniversary at Newport Beach Country Club. I have loved everything about my first year at NBCC! We have such a special and unique club, filled with an incredible membership and so many very special employee team members.
As I reflect on a fantastic first year, I’m very proud of our team and what we have achieved together in the past twelve months, with some highlights including:
• New Golf Carts – with GPS and new lithium batteries
• Family Tees – added to the course to provide another teeing option for new and youth golfers
• Course Yardages – new 100-, 150- and 200-yard plates
• Driving Range Project – completion of driving range tee and greens regressing
• Hoag Classic Tent – increasing the size of the member tent at the Hoag Classic
• Monday Minute – a new communication tool, the Monday Minute
• Video Communications – weekly e-newsletter now includes video communication
• Course and Locker Room Snacks – increased and additional snacks
• Chef’s Table Wine Dinner Series – a weekly wine dinner on Thursdays with Chef Graeme
• Cookies – complimentary cookies in the lobby plus energy bars in the fitness center
• Sunday Brunch – a weekly Sunday Brunch
• Pasta Night/Taco Night – increased offerings on Pasta and Taco nights
• Happy Hour – improvements to Friday and Saturday happy hour dishes
• Exterior Landscape – completion of phase I of landscape enhancements
• Lobby flowers – fresh flowers in the lobby every day
• Christmas Tree Lighting – a new event added to start the Christmas holiday season
• Easter Bunny – improved Easter Brunch with a parachuting Easter Bunny
• New Member Orientation – creation of a formal New Member Orientation program
• Membership Committee – reinvigorated our very selective membership process
• Staffing Levels – increased staffing in the locker rooms and outside services
• Front Desk staffing – now staffed until 9 p.m. every day
• New Staff Positions – the addition of the following new positions:
o Sommelier
o Training Manager
o two Food and Beverage Managers
o two Chef de Cuisine positions
We will continue to make improvements to our club and the member experience. This month, we continue with our golf course repair and maintenance project, including work on our tees, bunkers, landscapes and cart paths.
We are extremely proud of our member retention and waiting lists in both Golf and Social Sport membership categories. It has been a fantastic first year, and I’m excited for the future and what’s to come.
All the best,
Robin Shelton
Robin
Newport Beach Country Club
May Calendar
H BURGER BASH 5-8PM SEAHORSE GRILLE
H DUPLICATE BRIDGE 6:15PM LADIES GRILL
H DUELING PIANO 5:30-8PM BALLROOM H NBCC BIRTHDAY NIGHT 5-9PM SEAHORSE GRILLE
GRILLE H PASTA NIGHT 5-8PM SEAHORSE GRILLE
H MEMORIAL DAY
"Blossom
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by Blossom, the Spring begins." - Algernon Charles Swinburne
Machoskie & Associates
Mishitting Mishaps
DISCOVER HOW TO OVERCOME HITTING A GOLF BALL THE WRONG WAY.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
Practicing is a key component to ensuring that you find success on the golf course. Before setting out to play a game of golf, there are a number of things to consider, from your stance to your swing. But there are some aspects that are often overlooked when practicing. One of these is how the ball is hit, taking care not to mishit behind or on top of the ball—leading to missing the fairway or the green altogether.
According to Carlo Borunda, the director of instruction at Newport Beach Country Club, this is a pivotal part of golfing. “The quality of your contact with the golf ball is one of the most important aspects of playing the game,” he says. “Each golfer’s intent is to make contact with the golf ball before they ever think about the quality of their golf swing. If your contact is poor, then your confidence and score are bound to suffer.”
Here, Borunda reveals which kinds of things can cause you to mishit a golf ball and how to fix it.
Bay Window: Why is it important to understand what causes you to make poor contact with the golf ball?
Carlo Borunda: Golf can be a very difficult sport even when you are making solid contact with the golf ball. I try to teach my students solutions to the different types of poor contact they will experience so they can quickly make adjustments during their round. It is very helpful to have the ability to self diagnose and solve problems on your own, which will allow you to get back to playing to your ability and enjoying the game.
BW: What are some things in your setup that can have a negative effect on your contact?
CB: A mistake in where you place the golf ball in your stance is likely to create contact issues. If you are struggling with the trajectory of the golf ball, remember to check your ball position. A ball that is positioned toward your
Shifting your upper body too far to the left in your backswing will promote contact with the top of the golf ball.
right foot (right-handed golfer) will promote a lower trajectory. The opposite is true for a ball that is positioned toward the left foot. This forward ball position also promotes weight transfer, so I prefer that most shots be played from here.
Poor posture is also a major contributor to inconsistent contact. Make sure that your upper body feels tall before you introduce forward spine tilt. The tilt originates from the hip area, not the upper back or neck. Also, pay attention to your width of stance and your knee flex. Too much width will limit your hip rotation; too much knee flex will negatively affect your ability to stay in posture as you complete your backswing. This usually produces contact with the top of the golf ball, which sends the ball too far past your intended target. Posture is one fundamental that continually needs to be worked on as you practice and play.
BW: What are some ways in which golfers can improve their contact with the ball?
CB: Spend some time with a LPGA or PGA golf coach so they can help you establish consistent setup fundamentals and improve your overall swing technique. The proper setup fundamentals will improve your balance and help you maintain control of your golf swing. Improving your swing technique should help you develop a consistent ball flight, such as a draw or fade. When you can control the flight of the golf ball, you are able to play each hole with more confidence.
BW: What are some common mistakes that the average golfer does in their golf swing to promote poor contact?
CB: The way you move your upper body in your backswing can promote poor contact issues. If your upper body moves too far to the right (right-handed golfer), you will likely make more contact with the grass behind the golf ball. If your upper body moves too far to the left, you are promoting contact with the top of the golf ball. Each of these types of contact mistakes are very damaging to your score and your ability to enjoy the game. Even the most flexible golfers struggle to stay centered in their backswing. Work on staying centered as you complete your backswing—the best
way to consistently do this is to engage your hips and legs instead of just trying to turn your shoulders.
BW: Are there specific exercises to practice off the golf course that can assist with this?
CB: Strengthening your legs and improving your flexibility should be your top priorities. I like to use resistance bands during my training to help me build strength in my legs. Using a foam roller will help to alleviate stress in your lower back and hip areas. I also encourage you to use a massage gun after your workout or round of golf to help reduce soreness in your body.
BW: Are there any special products or tools that can help with any of this?
CB: You can improve your technique at home with swing trainers. My two favorite swing trainers are the Orange Whip, which I use
to improve my tempo, and the Momentus Speed Whoosh, which I use to develop club head speed.
BW: How can you practice making better contact with the golf ball?
CB: Each time you practice, it is important to be specific on what you want to achieve, such as improving the length of your backswing or finishing your golf swing with proper weight transfer. Once you feel comfortable and confident with this improvement, you should move on to another part of your game or possibly end your practice session. Make sure to use an alignment stick to confirm you are promoting good swing technique. A good practice session should also be used to improve your swing tempo. Your tempo is an essential tool throughout your game as it allows you to stay in balance and promotes distance control with each golf shot.
The proper balance in your backswing will promote solid contact with the golf ball.
Shifting your upper body too far to the right in your backswing will promote contact with the grass behind the golf ball,
Chasing Victory
NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB HOSTED ITS ANNUAL CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP TO NAME THE BEST OF THE BEST.
AiLam Newkirk, Nemie Pollack
George Schmidt with the winning putt Edward Susolik
Blair Walsh, Steven Card, Michael Coburn
Lexi MacDougall, Lisa Wang, Jake Card, Nick MacDougall, Denny Wang
James Shockey
Mark Romeo
Isako Takada, AiLam Newkirk
Junior Club Champion Lisa Wang
Ladies Club Champion AiLam Newkirk
Ladies Net Club Champion Nemie Pollack
Junior Club Champion Jake Card
Mens Club Champion George Schmidt
Mens Net Club Champion Tom Naughton
Medieval Magic
MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES CHEERED ON HEROIC KNIGHTS WHILE ALSO PARTICIPATING IN ACTIVITIES LIKE CROWN DECORATING, STICK HORSE RACING AND MORE.
Crown decorating
John Cho
Ella Mertlbauer with a knight
Cheering on the knights
Siena Wolfe
Taylor McConnell, Sophie McConnell
The Kelley family
Siara Shorey, Anika Shorey, Ivy McCollum
Dani, Jenni and Dillon DeSilva
Ryder Workman with the Blue Knight
The Stumpo family
The Blue Knight
Kids racing horses
Members enjoying the show
Knowles Lingenfelter
Better Beverages
WITH NEW DRINKS ON THE MENU AT THE SEAHORSE GRILLE, THERE ARE SIPS FOR EVERY PALATE.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
When it comes to seasonal spring offerings, freshness is at the forefront of every mixologist’s mind. And with new cocktails on the Seahorse Grille menu, there is something reminiscent of the season for everyone. “These drinks are great for spring because they are refreshing, well-balanced and full of tart and fruity flavors that ring in the true feelings of the season,” says Steven Coppell, assistant food and beverage director at Newport Beach Country Club.
In addition to contemporary cocktails, the menu features new beers and wines for those looking to indulge. Read on to discover the best of the current drink options and how the team developed the new menu.
SPRING SIPS
There are five new concoctions for diners to enjoy, each with its own fresh twist to bring the spring theme to fruition. For a bright, light option, try the passion fruit Collins, which combines the flavored liqueur with vodka and lemon, or the gin-forward Fairway to Heaven, crafted with Chartreuse plus pineapple and lime juices.
Whiskey drinkers will enjoy the All Rye, All Rye, All Rye, in which rye whiskey and angostura bitters blend with aperol, grapefruit and passion fruit liqueur for a fruity pop of flavor. Or, there is the B&B: Birdies & Bogeys, where a reserve bourbon and Benedictine liqueur are infused with dried cherries, brown sugar, vanilla bean, cinnamon and orange peel for a few days.
Newport Beach Country Club has new wines for spring.
Perhaps the most interesting of all is the Pick Your Pepper, which offers a kick from a spicy tequila: Choose from chipotle, habanero or jalapeño varieties. In addition to the spirit, the drink contains lime juice, agave nectar and a seasonal puree.
“The club is located in one of the best locations that California has to offer, and we felt new and refreshing cocktails would be great to go along with our new spring food menu—and to also pair with the wonderful beach views and weather we so much get to experience,” Coppell notes.
The food and beverage team is also planning to expand the menu further with the addition of after-dinner drinks. “We are currently working on adding new items as after dinner cocktails to give members more options to choose from when they join us for dinner,” he explains. “We would like to invite members to join us for our spring cocktails and to keep an eye out for our new after-dinner choices.”
BEER & WINE
The fun doesn’t end there, with some classic beer and wine offerings also making an appearance on the menu. Three new brews are currently available, starting with a Belgian wheat called White from Allagash Brewing Co., which is refreshing yet complex. The rotating tap also features Love Hazy IPA from the Almanac Beer Co., which Coppell says is
tropical and juice, containing notes of citrus, mango and even cantaloupe. Last but not least, the craft beer menu includes the classic Fat Tire amber ale made by New Belgium Brewing, filled with herbal hops and fruity yeast flavors.
Three wines have been revealed as well: a sauvignon blanc, an albarino and a tempranillo. The first, a crisp French wine called Sauvetage 2020, is perfect for sunny spring days. Also on the menu is the 2020 Bodega Garzon Reserva albarino from Moldanado, Uruguay. “We had the opportunity to do a wine dinner with Bodega Garzon with flamenco dancers—on top of being able to meet the owner and discuss the wonderful wines they have to offer,” Coppell notes.
The final bottle, a Marques de Murrieta Reserva tempranillo, comes from the famed Rioja wine region in Spain and has been added to the Worldly Reds section of the menu to promote varietals from across the globe.
TALENT & TECHNIQUE
While crafting the new menu, the staff at NBCC chose to go in a new direction this spring, finding fresh ways to make the drinks and special ingredients to incorporate. “We decided as a team that the building blocks of creating a great cocktail menu are based on research and development in finding the right ingredients, innovation and taking
the time to make sure we keep our cocktails well-balanced and exciting,” Coppell says. Seeking out options that were specifically refreshing—in an effort to appeal to the season—the team felt that it was definitely time for a change. With the members in mind, they created the new offerings, which launched a couple of months ago. “We want to make sure that we bring new ideas to our members, so they have something to look forward to when they visit the club,” he adds. “Good food and good beverage are key to bringing people together and creating memorable experiences. Part of our operating philosophy … is to enrich lives through shared personal experiences and connections. Members are at the forefront of what we do.”
As time goes on, the group plans to continue to evolve the menu, with swapping in seasonal sips while also expanding the craft beer and worldly wine options—which Coppell calls the “building blocks” of a great beverage program. “I would love to see new and popular craft beers rotate through our program, especially beers that showcase a bridge between beer making and wine making techniques,” he says. “I would also like to expand some of our bourbon selections. The ultimate goal is to take care of our members and to make sure they are getting new and exciting beverages to go along with the dining experiences.”
Some of the wines added are global favorites. Craft beers are also part of the new beverages.
The whiskey-filled All Rye, All Rye, All Rye
Strength in Snacking
LEARN ABOUT THE BEST BITES TO ENJOY WHILE MAINTAINING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE—INCLUDING THE FITNESS CENTER’S FAMOUS GRANOLA BARS.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
When it comes to nutrition, many falsely believe that snacks are off limits. Selfcontrol is important, but rather than restricting yourself, consider switching to healthy snack options that can help provide the fuel you need to feel good and get in shape rather than reaching for overly sweet, sugary or salty bites.
Here, Bianca Gillett, the director of recreation at Newport Beach Country Club, shares how you can seek out healthy alternatives to keep you satiated between meals.
HEALTHY OPTIONS
There are a variety of snacks you can turn to when you’re trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. One such option, according to Gillett, is a protein-focused bite like beef jerky (she recommends the brands Stryve or Chomps). Other ways to indulge in protein include certain yogurts, such as siggi’s Icelandic-style yogurt, as well as anything with chickpeas, from hummus paired with pita bread and veggies to baked chickpea snacks. Protein bars are also popular.
Alternatively, she says fruit can be a wonderful snack. “Fruit is always an easy and healthy choice,” she explains. “Berries are the best of the best, … due to the antioxidants they carry and [the fact that they have] less natural sugar—unlike bananas.”
Many of the menu items available at NBCC are oriented toward those who are health conscious, and a lot of that is thanks to Executive Chef Graeme Blair’s background. “Graeme is fortunate to be married to a clinical dietician at Hoag Hospital,” Gillett notes. “They both enjoy a Southern California attitude when it comes to exercise and fitness. This enthusiasm extends to the healthy options on the menu. Having a dietician to brainstorm with at home is a win for our members.”
Look for the “LF” symbol on NBCC menus to
Director of Recreation Bianca Gillett, Executive Chef Graeme Blair and General Manager Robin Shelton hold granola bars made by the food and beverage team at Newport Beach Country Club.
find dishes that might align with your fitness and nutrition goals all at once. “The ‘Lighter Fare’ designation gives our members a quick reference to find lower calorie, lighter options on all of our menus throughout the club,” Gillett says. “Our new Wedge menu also features smoothies that are fortified with plantbased protein. We’ve added delicious egg white bites containing oven-roasted tomatoes, spinach and cottage cheese for a protein and veggie-based post- or pre-workout fix.”
GRAB A GRANOLA BAR
One of the most popular snacks here at NBCC can’t be found on any menu—rather, it’s a complimentary amenity offered at the fitness center. Last October, Chef Graeme and his team began making granola bars that pack a punch, serving as a great way to get some energy into your body.
Available for members and their guests, these bars have been flying off the shelves ever since they were implemented. “Although I will always promote whole food meals first—since that is the best way to fuel your body—energy bars with healthier ingredients, like the ones we make, are … [a great option],” she says. Gillett says the bars have a great taste, healthy ingredients and serve as an easy source of energy for playing golf and refueling before or after a workout. She also says that, since they’re made in-house, they’re coming from a trusted source, meaning that there aren’t any sneaky ingredients and also that they’re less processed. Plus, the gluten-free oats and pumpkin seeds both aid in keeping your gut healthy and regulating hormone function.
Stop by and try one for yourself, or see the attached recipe to make them at home.
NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB GRANOLA BARS
Serving: 16-20 bars
8 cups Muesli (I like Bob’s Red Mill organic)
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup hemp hearts
1/2 cup ground flax
1 cup honey
3 cup almond butter
1/2 cup agave
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Method
Pulse 1 cup of the Muesli in a food
processor and mix back into all the combined dry ingredients.
Heat the honey, almond butter, agave, salt until heated thru, add vanilla (be careful not to scorch as it turns quickly) Pour hot mixture into dry, mix well until incorporated. Mixture should be cohesive.
Transfer to a parchment lined pan, press into corners until flat. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before cutting into squares.
NUTRITION
(per bar)
Calories: 203
Fat: 13 grams | Carbs: 19 grams
Protein: 5 grams
Danielle Sayer Membership Manager
Hello Members!
Spring is in full swing at Newport Beach Country Club and May is blooming with an exciting spectrum of events to fill your social calendar. We begin with the final cotillion session of the season on May 3, followed by Date Night on May 6. Fresh flowers and chilled bubbly plus an array of healthy and decadent culinary delights are all part of our sumptuous Mother’s Day brunch on May 8. Please contact the Seahorse Grille for current availability.
Are you “Living on a Prayer”?
Well, “Don’t Stop Believin’” because we are “Born to be Wild” so “Let’s Dance!” Join us at the club for Dueling Pianos on May 18 and prepare to sing your hearts out and dance the night away. Reservations are available online.
And, finally, we finish the month with Movie Night on May 27 and a festive Memorial Day barbecue on May 30. See you there!
Please help me welcome the following new members to the NBCC family:
The Campbells live in the flower streets of Corona del Mar. Debi is retired from an advertising career. She is involved with bible study groups and activities at Mariners Church. She is also a master gardener and a contributor to the CDM Village Living magazine. She is an active member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO), a nonprofit that is committed to helping women pursue higher education. Dean is semi-retired from the tech industry, retaining only the chairmanship of a software company while also being involved in LINKS and Men of Mariners bible study groups.
MIKE DONNELLY
Mike recently retired from The Kroger Co. and is enjoying his new home on Lido Isle. He has two amazing kids, Jennifer and Joshua, who both live on the East Coast, so travel is a regular part of life. In his free time, Mike enjoys staying active outdoors and golfing with family and friends.
David is the president and chief lending officer of the BLC Companies, which is a private real estate fund based out of Irvine. Stephanie is a former pharmaceutical and medical equipment sales representative, but is currently a stay-at-home mom taking care of the three Manser girls: Hannah, Molly and Lilah. The Mansers currently live on Balboa Island and the girls attend Seashore Academy. Both David and Stephanie enjoy playing golf and the entire family actively participates in the kid’s club known as the Balboa Island Yacht Club (BIYC).
Gary is the owner of several industrial properties around Orange County. He is an avid tennis player and loves to travel with his family. He currently lives in Corona del Mar.
Originally from Michigan, Susan moved to Newport Beach in 2007 and has been a resident ever since. She graduated with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from the University of Michigan. She taught algebra and science at the junior high level in the inner city of Detroit for 15 years. Then, she taught algebra in Orange County for eight years with the Saddleback Valley Unified School District in Mission Viejo. Now retired, Susan loves spending time with her two sons, Brad and Brandon, her daughter-in-law Chanda and her grandson Beau. She enjoys family vacations, traveling with friends, sailing, skiing, golfing and Duffy boat rides in the bay.
Greg is the president and CEO of an Irvinebased pharmaceutical company developing drugs for rare diseases. Mei-Chi is a doctor of Chinese medicine, but is currently taking a break from practicing to be a full-time mother for their 7-year-old daughter Mia, who attends first grade at Harbor Day School. The Flesher family lives in Corona del Mar.
DEAN & DEBI CAMPBELL
THE MANSER FAMILY
GARY ADAMS
SUSAN VOLAS
THE FLESHER FAMILY
Family First
NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB MEMBERS SCOTT AND KATE AKAMINE SHARE THE BEST ADVICE THEY’VE RECEIVED, THEIR FAVORITE CONCERTS AND HOW THEY ENJOY SPENDING TIME AS A FAMILY.
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
Bay Window: What is your favorite way to spend a day off?
Scott and Kate Akamine: We love a good beach day with a couple surfboards and sandwiches. Scott grew up surfing and is now teaching our boys to surf, so everyone is happy at the beach. Even in the winter time, the boys wear wetsuits and brave the cold water. We are so grateful to live in Newport Beach and take full advantage of it.
BW: What was your best vacation?
S&KA: The boys really enjoyed getting back onto the mountain for ski
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 members Scott and Kate Akamine.
week. It was a long drive to Mammoth, but totally worth it to see the boys develop their confidence. Connor, 7, loves to fly down the mountain as quickly as possible, while Finn, 5, and Kate enjoy a slower pace. There is nothing better than a cup of hot chocolate (or a cocktail) to enjoy during the après party.
BW: What is the best piece of advice a family member has given you?
S&KA: After our oldest son, Connor, was born, we were told that the days would be long, but the years would be short. It has proven true.
BW: Do you have a favorite holiday?
S&KA: Kate is a big fan of Thanksgiving. It’s a family-focused holiday without the pressure of presents and an emphasis on food. Scott has always enjoyed the fun of the 4th of July in Newport Beach—although the days of celebrating on the peninsula have long passed.
BW: What is the best concert you have ever been to?
S&KA: A date night with a concert is a good night. We’ve seen an eclectic mix: Taylor Swift, the Zac Brown Band, Kings of Leon, among others. Any time we can get babysitting!
BW: Favorite type of exercise?
S&KA: Afternoon bike rides around
the neighborhood with our kids. It’s a fun way to run into our neighbors in Dover Shores. In our spare time, we also enjoy hiking, running or biking— and golf counts for exercise, right?
BW: What is a family tradition that you enjoy?
S&KA: We sit down as a family for dinner and play High, Low, Buffalo. To play, each person takes a turn to talk about the best part of their day (high), the worst part of their day (low) and something they noticed or observed during the day (buffalo). … It is a fantastic conversation starter, especially for those with children who say that every day is “fine.”
BW: What is your favorite way to spend time with your family?
S&KA: We have come to enjoy Saturday afternoons on the NBCC golf course for the Operation 36 program. It is a fantastic program for the kids to learn the game and gain an appreciation for scoring. Nothing like watching our younger boy, Finn, stressing over a downhill 3-foot putt.
BW: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
S&KA: We have looked at opportunities to move out of California for work, but there really is no place like Newport Beach.
Marina Dutton General Manager
Balboa Bay Resort
Dear Guests, Members, and Visitors,
May is an exciting time at the resort! This month we are celebrating moms, working out on the Bayfront Lawn, and bringing back our annual wine festival, with a twist!
First and foremost, we look forward to saluting all moms at our special Mother’s Day brunch in the Grand Ballroom and on the Ballroom Terrace. Join us for a delectable buffet including a robust seafood display, chef action stations with New York strip steak and herb crusted rack of lamb, eggs cooked to order, a tantalizing sushi bar, crepe Suzette and more! Be sure to make your reservation early as this celebration typically sells out quickly. Visit our website for more information www.balboabayresort.com.
As we continue our focus on wellness, I’m happy to announce that our complimentary Monday Fitness by the Bay classes with CAZ Training Club have begun. Members and resort guests are invited to join us every Monday on the Bayfront Lawn at 4:00 pm, 5:15 pm or 6:30 pm for a CAZ Training Club class which takes you station-to-station through the perfect mix of cardio and strength training. Email info@caztrainingclub.com at least 12 hours prior to class with your member or room reservation number to sign up. Classes are limited. We also added a second Peloton bike in our fitness studio based on the demand for this popular workout equipment. Be sure to check them out along with our new Lululemon Mirror virtual trainer.
And finally, we are thrilled that our annual wine festival is returning after a two-year hiatus, and it will be bigger and better than ever! The new and improved Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival will feature an array of wineries and distributors representing over 50 labels. The event will be held in the waterfront area along the boardwalk and will feature tasty bites, live music and a few surprises!
I look forward to seeing you around the resort and at our special events. Feel free to ask for me at any time - I welcome the opportunity to connect with you while you are here.
Marina
Mother's Day Brunch
Sunday, May 8
Grand Ballroom & Terrace | Live Music | Sparkling Wine pon Arrival
Seatingsfrom10 00am 2 00pm Tickets Available onEventbrite
Adults $110 | Children $55 Plus tax, gratuity, and Eventbrite fees
Celebrate Mom atMother s ay Brunch Enjoy ane travagant buffetfeaturing eggsFlorentine, crepes, a seafood display, sushi bar,specialty stations, delicious dessertsand more.
Kick off the summer at Balboa Bay Resort's Newport Beach
Wine & Spirits Festivala celebration of wine, spirits, and light bites over emorial Day Weekend. Sip and mingle while en oying music, tasty bites, and beautiful Southern California sunshine by the bay.
Friday, May 27
DAOU Winery Reception and Dinner
Featuring the iconic Paso Robles vineyard and a five-course dinner expertly paired by Executive Chef Prabeen
6pm Reception, 6:30pm Dinner | $175 plus tax, gratuity, and Eventbrite fees
Saturday, May 28
Wine & Spirits Festival
2pm-6pm | $125 plus tax, gratuity, and Eventbrite fees
Su day, May 2
Wine & Spirits Festival
2pm-6pm | $125 plus tax, gratuity, and Eventbrite fees
Combination tickets also available. Visit balboabayresort.com for more information.
Balboa Bay Club Members and Hotel Guests staying overnight May 27, 28, or 29 enjoy special pricing.
Please email specialevents@balboabayresort.com with your member or room reservation number to reserve tickets. 1221 West Coast HWY, Newport Beach, CA 92663 | 949.645.5000 | www.balboabayresort.com
BALBOA BAY RESORT ANNOUNCES
THE NEWPORT BEACH WINE & SPIRITS FESTIVAL OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND
ANNUAL WINE FESTIVAL RETURNS WITH MORE TO OFFER AFTER A TWO-YEAR HIATUS
BY FRANCINE SLOSSER
After a two-year hiatus, Balboa Bay Resort is proud to kick off the summer season with the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival over Memorial Day Weekend, May 27-29, 2022. Formerly known as the Annual Newport Beach Wine Festival, this year’s event will feature an array of wineries and distributors representing over 50 labels. Sip and mingle while enjoying live music, tasty bites, and breathtaking views along the waterline.
“We’re thrilled to put on this event at Balboa Bay Resort and enhance the experience with more offerings and entertainment,”
said Jason Hsieh, Food & Beverage Director at Balboa Bay Resort. The festival begins Friday, May 27 at 6 PM with a DAOU Vineyards reception and dinner represented by the DAOU brand ambassador team. This iconic Paso Robles winery known for its powerful Bordeaux varieties. An expertly curated 5-course dinner will accompany the tasting, courtesy of Balboa Bay Resort’s Executive Chef Prabeen Prathapan. This intimate dinner and reception will take place in the resort’s beloved Lighthouse Room, that offers tranquil ocean breezes and sweeping harbor views.
On Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29, the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival will welcome over 50 wine and spirits vendors, with live music, hors d’oeuvres and stunning bay views. Participating vendors include Nostros Tequila & Mezcal, Hampton Water, Crescere Wines, Casamigos, Spritz, Angeline Vineyards, and dozens more. The festival will be in the resort’s Commodore Room pouring out onto the boardwalk, overlooking the marina, yachts, and Lido Island in the distance.
Combination tickets are also available for guests who desire a full weekend of wine and cuisine. Wine & Spirits VIP Pass includes the Friday DAOU Winery Dinner as well as Saturday and Sunday admission to the festival; the Wine & Spirits Ticket includes Saturday and Sunday admission to the festival.
Balboa Bay Club Members and Resort guests staying overnight during Memorial Day Weekend enjoy special pricing. Please email specialevents@balboabayresort.com with your member or hotel reservation number to reserve tickets.
Doctors In Style
TWO PROMINENT LOCAL DOCTORS SHARE FASHION, FAMILY AND CAREER
BY CAROLE PICKUP / PHOTOS BY ANN CHATILLON
Style and fashion: sometimes there is an overlap between the worlds of style and fashion.
Personal style, which this article is all about, is something that “belongs” to the individual. A means of self-expression, how they dress is “their” style. Style is timeless, while fashion is timely. It follows trends or fads. For instance, right now the “trendy” print in men’s and women’s clothing is snake. Fads don’t last long, and snake print will follow suit.
Many of the men and women at the Academy Awards last month were dressed by their “stylist” in trendy looks. Many of the women looked poured into their outfits front and back. There were a few who dressed themselves, and they looked comfortable, their color choice was spot on. They were few and far between.
Please meet two very busy doctors who are in style. They know what they feel good wearing, from fabric to color to fit.
Meet Dr. Cory Brame
CAROLE PICKUP: What was your motivation to become a doctor?
DR. CORY BRAME: I became a doctor because I was often sick when I was a child. I was around doctors frequently and I thought it was something that I wanted to do. At a young age I thought it would be so cool and interesting to understand how our bodies functioned and how to fix them. I also thought it would be very satisfying to spend each day helping people.
CP: Tell me about your career path and your family?
CB: I went to Cornell in Manhattan for my ophthalmology residency. I met my husband, Desmond McGuire, in 2001. Very soon after we met, we learned that we were both placed in San Diego for our fellowship specialty training. I became a cornea specialist. We fell in love with Southern California and have never left. We had our daughter, Kendall, in 2009.
CP: How do you spend your precious free time?
CB: Snow skiing, horseback riding, hiking, biking, fly fishing and traveling.
CP: You have a great fashion sense. What is this all about?
CB: I love clothes shopping. I like to actually see the clothing, feel the material and be sure I like the fit of the clothing before purchasing. I don’t get the same level of satisfaction when I buy clothing online.
CP: Do you have a favorite designer?
CB: I like several different clothing designers. For work, I am most comfortable wearing slacks and a blazer. My favorite brand for blazers and suits is Veronica Beard. It is professional but has more interesting materials with more patterns and colors, new styles and small details that are more fun and don’t feel stuffy or drab.
CP: You might be the only doctor who wears stiletto heels. Please explain.
CB: I especially love shoes. I definitely prefer to try them on before purchasing. I spend most of my day on my feet, so comfortable shoes are a must. Believe it or not, even my heels are comfortable—to a point. It’s almost impossible to pick a favorite brand but if I had to choose, I really love Valentino. Their shoes are beautiful and are really well-made so even their high heels are quite comfortable.
Dr. Cory Brame leads her successful practice following impressive study and training. Cory graduated from University of Texas Medical School, completed residency in ophthalmology from the prestigious Cornell/New York Hospital, and received a fellowship in corneal disease and refractive surgery at UC San Diego.
Meet Dr. Anne Marie McNeill
CAROLE PICKUP: Tell me how you chose medicine as a career?
DR. ANNE MARIE MCNEILL: I was not one of those people who always knew they wanted to be a physician. I never had a grand vision for my career. I didn’t grow up knowing any physicians, and didn’t see that as something that was possible for me until I had already graduated college. I just kept studying things that I was interested in as I was exposed to them. That led me to my doctorate program in Pharmacology, then medical school.
CP: What was your educational path?
AMM: I went to UC San Diego for my Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. Then my PhD in Pharmacology at UC Irvine, my MD at UC Irvine, Medical Internship at UCLA, then back to UC Irvine for Dermatology Residency.
CP: Who is your favorite clothing designer?
AMM: Christian Dior
CP: Do you like to shop in person or online?
AMM: I shop online. I have a great relationship with a Dior associate at the Aspen store. She always emails me a pdf of the upcoming collection, and ships me my choices. It is wonderfully easy and fun, but at the same time probably a terrible habit. Still, there are worse vices than great fashion!
CP: Describe your favorite pastime.
AMM: A great Saturday starts with tending to our pygmy goats, Bonnie and Clyde, and our 7 hens. Then enjoying scrambled eggs with farm fresh eggs with our family.
CP: How about family life?
AMM: I met my husband of 26 years, Gordon, during our undergraduate years at UCSD. We have 5 children, ages 19, twins who are 18, 13 and 7.
“Here’s To The Ladies Who Lunch”
THE LADIES OF THE 1221 CLUB IN SUPPORT OF STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS IN THE NEWPORT-MESA SCHOOL DISTRICT GATHERED FOR A SPECIAL GOURMET COOKING EXHIBITION AND LUNCHEON PREPARED TABLE-SIDE AND SERVED BY CELEBRITY MEDIA CHEF JAMIE GWEN JOINING HER TALENTED MOTHER AND RESTAURANT WRITER/RECIPE CREATOR LANA SKILLS. THE LOBSTER SALAD WAS A SHOWSTOPPER!
Lobster Cobb Salad
Classic Spanish White Gazpacho
Janice Gormley, Shannon Katasaris, and Lisa King
Basque Cheesecake
Angie Bird and Jane Rivera
Cynthia DeBaun and Kathy Hamilton
Chef Jamie Gwen and her mother Lana Sills
Catherine Thyen and Mary Roosevelt
Kelle Seal, Kari DeAngelo, and Karly Brackmann
Lana Sills and Chef Jamie Gwen
Some Neighborly Legal Advice
IF YOU HAVE A DISPUTE WITH YOUR NEIGHBOR, TRY TALKING BEFORE YOU CALL YOUR ATTORNEY. SURPRISING HOW FEW ACTUALLY DO TALK.
BY ALEX CHAZEN
One April evening, we took our kids to the beach to enjoy the longer days, and as I sat in the sand, watching them play, my mind wandered to work (as it unfortunately tends to do). I am currently handling two cases involving what the plaintiffs claim are “nuisances.” California, as any business owner knows, is extremely litigious as a whole, and those in my chosen profession seem to make it more so by the day.
These cases, unlike most nuisance cases, do not involve actual damage to the plaintiff’s home, or even someone directly targeting the plaintiffs themselves. Instead, one involves construction going on across the street, and the other involves children playing too loudly in front of the plaintiff’s home. Because these are active cases, and because a deeper dive isn’t necessary for my column this month, I won’t get more into the details than that.
I find quite often that people have stopped talking to each other about their problems, and instead bottle them up inside, hoping that someone notices. This seems especially true
amongst neighbors. I have written before about how the worst possible lawsuits are those between neighbors, and yet we have seen a definite rise in lawsuits between neighbors filed over the last year or two.
When we first bought our house, we did a certain amount of construction before moving in. Prior to the construction starting, I printed out sheets of paper that said we were new to the neighborhood, we’d be doing some construction, and giving my cell phone number, just in case there was a problem with the contractors or something else. I placed these little notes in the mailbox of every home that either borders our fence line or is next to a home that borders our fence line. At the time, I thought I was being cautious, and my wife thought I was a little crazy to go to such lengths.
During our construction, a small patch of stucco was affected at one of our neighbor’s houses. They called, I apologized, we worked it out, and we now live happily near each other. However, I have since seen lawsuits that arise from similar scenarios. In one, a neighbor sued because some concrete from the construction next door landed in their plants, “irrevocably destroying the landscape.” In another, excavation for a subterranean garage, “shook the pool house so much that the stucco cracked.”
When taking the deposition of the plaintiffs in those cases, we asked about whether they had ever called or contacted their neighbor to see if they would fix it. The responses were some combination of “no” and “well they weren’t going to fix it to my standards.” Even in these changing times where on average we spend more time at home than through most of our history, studies still show that people talk to their neighbors less and less. This is what makes our society more polarized, and what makes us each feel more alienated. How many of us even know the names of the neighbors that live directly on either side of our homes?
As the weather continues to warm, and we spend even more time outside enjoying the wonderful communities that we are so fortunate to live in, take the time to introduce yourself to your neighbor. Hopefully it won’t be so important that it avoids a lawsuit, but maybe you will find yourself a new friend this spring–one who was right there next to you this whole time.
The New Traditional
BY CHRISTINE PHILLIPS FOR BARCLAY BUTERA INTERIORS
Everything old is new again! And here at Barclay Butera Interiors, we are thrilled and honored to unveil our new sixth coffee table book, The New Traditional, with publisher Gibbs-Smith. This spectacular book has an unprecedented level of sophistication like no other; white linen cover and binding and the charcoal raised lettering foreshadow the luxurious contents inside. This amazing book reveals some of Barclay’s latest works, very glamorous homes, still comfortable
and inviting, but certainly fresh and distinguished. Butera‘s recent projects showcase his masterful use of symmetry with a less cluttered, very unfettered serene style. Familiar silhouettes with updated scale and materials round out the mix. Though there is a nod to the past, it’s clear that Barclay has a brand new way of curating spaces that he brilliantly shares with his readers. Explore the dreamy world of Barclay Butera Interiors and delve into The New Traditional!
THE RICH MOSAIC OF ORANGE COUNTY RESTAURANTS
OUT AND ABOUT AGAIN EXPLORING THE O.C. DINING SCENE
BY LANA SILLS
It’s time! We’re all hungry to explore the diverse culinary scene that Orange County has to offer. Dine out at your favorite treasured eatery, discover a new restaurant and support local. Kudos to the brave new restaurants that opened in 2021…my list is a mix of favorites and newbies, and I love them all for their scrumptious cuisine, the artisanal drinks, the ambience, the service and the extravaganza that is dining out. To celebrate my distinct pleasure of writing for Bay Window Magazine for six wonderful years, come on a food run with me! Orange County is made up of cities of vibrant ethnic enclaves. Being adventurous helps! You can find good eats on Coast Highway, but I
recommend heading to ANJIN in Costa Mesa for authentic Japanese style BBQ. Scoring a reservation at OMAKASE BY GINO in Santa Ana will reward you with his Sushi craftsmanship and attention to detail with just two seating’s a night, jazz music and soft lighting. Visiting EL MATADOR to grab some tongue tacos and SABROSO! MEXICAN GRILL for the Pork Tamale and their Chili Verde Nachos from the secret menu will ignite your taste buds...you can thank me later. Because, if you’re looking for a cool vibe, modern cuisine, authentic mom-andpop or just spectacular food, it’s here in Orange County.
From the culinary geniuses behind Toast
Kitchen and Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, Restaurateur Ed Lee and Chef John Park have created a dining experience at South Coast Plaza called TABLEAU KITCHEN+BAR and it will fill you with delicious memories. They serve up a fabulous array of divine dishes. Start the day with Ube (totally trending and my favorite dessert flavor); their Ube Blueberry Almond Croissant is a must try flavor of Filipino sweet yam ripe in dark-purple. Don’t miss the Mushroom Toast, House-made Everything Spice Bagel and Citrus Cured Lox; Chef John’s Skuna Bay Salmon with Misugaru Gnocchi, Curry Mussels, Shrimp and Grits with a glass of Les Terres Blanches BB Rosé (or a bottle of Whispering Angel Rosé) and the Korean Fried Chicken. The pastries, breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, cocktails and soon to be added, afternoon tea service, will tempt you any hour of the day. And to give back, they have designated a 12-person “Giving Table” with 10% of the profits slated for local causes as well as reserved for a monthly charity dinner.
Tableau Korean Fried Chicken
Knife Pleat Vegetable Salad
One of Orange County’s newest culinary destinations, BUTCHER’S HOUSE BRASSERIE, is bringing a French flair to SoCo in Costa Mesa. Chef Jeoffrey Offer focuses on the craft of butchery at his modern French bistro. His father, a local butcher, taught him the precision and quality standards. Loyal followers dine on 30-day dry-aged bone-in Rib eye, Toulouse Sausage and a brilliant Comté Burger. The classic sauces are impeccably made and the dry-aging room will impress.
Chef Tony Ensault and Restaurateur Yassmin Sarmadi, continue to elevate their chic and exquisite fine dining at KNIFE PLEAT at South Coast Plaza. The sparkle from their hard-earned and so well-deserved Michelin Star is undeniable. Elegantly tailored, phenomenal food and impeccable hospitality make the Caviar Service, Lobster Risotto and Duck Three-Ways taste even more sublime. I love the Saturday Afternoon Tea service; the scones and clotted cream will transport you to Paris!
Walk amongst beauty, soak in the color and dine on delectable food. If you haven’t experienced 608 DAHLIA AT SHERMAN GARDENS, you need to go! Chef Jessica Roy is a true talent, and she is growing much of what she uses for her truly fabulous Garden to Table cuisine. A can’t-get-better-than-this Lunch is a lovely table on the patio overlooking the gardens. The Cultivar Salad, Seared Trout, Buttermilk Chive and Gruyere Biscuits served with homemade-spiced apple butter, all delicious. Thailand, Vietnam, China and Korea are all represented at STARFISH, the Asian bistro in Laguna. The vibe is elegant yet casual and the bar is always lively. From clay pots to umamirich noodles to wok-fired perfection, Starfish’s
best dishes are craveable and always draw me back for more. The beauty of dim lighting, excellent service and being a locally owned establishment are all great draws.
Balboa Bay Resort, our favorite premier waterfront property has the privilege of their new Executive Chef Prabeen Prathapan overseeing the resort’s overall culinary program. His background spans the Taj Hotel portfolio, Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, Montage Laguna Beach and Paséa Hotel & Spa Huntington Beach. His hospitality experience has already brought unforgettable culinary moments of exceptional food and wine to guests and members alike. My favorite Sunday Brunch is at the LIGHTHOUSE ROOM at Balboa Bay Resort. Impress your pickiest Brunch lover with exquisitely fresh chilled seafood, an alfresco made-to-order omelet station, artisan cheeses and charcuterie boards and for the sweet tooth in all of us, a mouthwatering patisserie display. This is a modern gathering space serving up light ocean breezes and sweeping harbor views for locals, resort guests and club members to enjoy every Sunday from 10am to 2pm.
A+O RESTAURANT & BAR on the Bay Front of the Balboa Bay Resort Hotel is my favorite spot on Newport’s gorgeous harbor. From lunch to happy hour to dinner, the new menu offers a unique and elevated cocktail menu that will satisfy your at-the-moment needs! The Sushi + Sake Saturdays and the Western Wednesdays (for the best Texas BBQ spare ribs), and their Smoked Whiskey Cocktails will definitely make your week more scrumptious. Live entertainment and a lively atmosphere always guarantee a good time.
The dining experience at NAPA ROSE is for
those that love fabulous food and fine wine. Welcome to the Grand Californian Hotel at Disney for this casual fine dining experience. Chef Andrew Sutton’s food clearly resonates Wine Country; his dishes are fresh yet hearty and so satisfying, you can’t get enough. The gorgeous dining room of glass and views, the superb staff and the glorious wine collection make every experience at Napa Rose amazing.
Orange County’s love affair with THE DOCK has been 20 years in the making of waterside dining, a boat dock and exceptional food with superb service. An amazing contemporary American menu with a fantastic wine list brought to you by restaurateur Chris Overstreet.
The flavors of Southeast Asia with French techniques has created Chef Tin Vuong’s LITTLE SISTER Restaurant empire and the O.C. was lucky enough to have one land at Irvine Spectrum late last year. The diverse and incredible menu that ranges from butter-basted Escargot Poppers to red curry spiced pork rinds, Saigon Lemongrass Beef and the whole fried Sea Bass with Ginger Chili Sauce and fresh lime are impressive and utterly delicious. The entrance is dramatic, everything is delicious and drinks are tropical and fun.
From the first shop founded in 1945 in Ohio, HANDEL’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM has expanded to multiple locations as well as Newport Beach on Oceanfront. The ice cream is amazing, hand-packed happiness made fresh daily in 45 heavenly flavors. I’m a rich and creamy Pistachio and Black Cherry double-scoop kinda gal. “Can I just say perfection?”
Take good care of the wait staff. “Check, Please.”
Butcher’s House Dinner Service
Handels Ice Cream
Dahlia Cultivar Salad
Splendors Of South America
HISTORY, CULTURE, ROMANCE AND MYSTERY DISCOVERED AT EVERY TURN
STORY AND PHOTOS BY PATRICK O’DONNELL
For many months now, most of my stories have been about nice little day trips that you could take and be pretty much COVID safe. But things are getting much better and “they” are telling us now you can really travel again.
So, I would like to tell you about a trip that my wife and I made a few years before the Great Pandemic. This is on our list of the best three or four trips we have ever made, and that would be South America. The countries we visited on this land tour trip were Peru, Chile, Argentina and Brazil. We began the three-week vacation in Peru’s capital cities of yesterday and today—Cuzco, former capital of
the Inca Empire and later a Spanish colonial stronghold, and Lima, Peru’s modern capital.
Way up in the Andes, Cuzco is a charming place to visit, and we stayed in the 5-star Libertador Hotel on property once belonging to Francisco Pizarro’s brother, Gonzalo. The hotel is in the middle of this wonderful 15th century cobblestoned city that was built on top of the former ancient Inca capital. The Spanish Conquistadors did the same thing in Mexico City. The hotel is now called the Palacio del Inca and is run by Marriot, and I’ll bet the Pizarro boys are not mentioned much. In the lobby they gave us coca tea made from coca leaves. We were told it was
good in preventing altitude sickness and they had more leaves available for chewing.
From this World Heritage city, we took a 3.5–hour train trip along the Urubamba River in the Sacred Valley with dramatic canyon walls on either side until we reached Agua Calientes at the base of one of the really great things to see in this world. At the top of this mountain is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, and it lived up to its billing.
We had a marvelous guide for the day, describing himself as an Incan, he led us through a pretty heavy jungle path until we came around a bend and then, there it
was. Our small group gasped. All I could think about was that this must be Shangri-La. We were standing on a ledge overlooking this “Lost City of the Inca” that in 1911 Yale Professor Hiram Bingham, led by a local guide, re-discovered. Then we heard some strange, yet wonderful music and as I turned around to see where it was coming from, there was our guide Fredy playing a wooden flute. Pretty cool.
The Incas, in contrast with the Mayans, had no written language so there is still great speculation about this magical place and how remarkable stonework could be achieved on top of a mountain 8,000 feet high. Why Francisco Pizarro didn’t find it from 1529-33 when he was plundering Peru and why it was lost for so many years still remains an enigma.
After leaving Machu Picchu, we were on a bus headed back to Cusco. This was a great experience as the driver made several rest stops allowing us to take photos and meet some people selling locally made handicrafts. Here in the high Andes the women are special. Each village has a unique style of clothing that identifies the wearer as belonging to that region. Ladies dress in layers of bright, colorful traditional Andean outfits, including capes, shawls, embroidered skirts, and wild and crazy hats. I particularly recall an elegant woman standing with her animals in a beautiful pasture. We passed on a very popular delicacy being sold here—fried guinea pig.
Now it was back to Lima, a beautiful modern city. There were live dolphins playing in a huge pool that ran through the lobby of our hotel. We did some museum hopping and got some rest before flying on to Santiago. The first thing I remember about this capital city of Chile is that it is big. Like, over 5 million people big with mountains all around it. They have a 14-lane freeway
and smog. Yikes, it’s L.A. We were there in March, which is like September here, and when we went to the city center that is called “Plaza de Armis” there were many dirty 18-year-olds wearing very tattered clothing running around begging for money. What’s going on, I wondered? I found out they were college freshmen trying to get money so they could buy their regular clothes. When the upper classmates get enough pesos, a grand party is thrown for all. Then it’s back to school. As a former professor, I think that sounds fun.
Food-wise we found one thing people in Chile are crazy for and it was everywhere. Called “Completo,” it is a hot dog variation with sliced avocados and mayonnaise. It could also have chopped tomatoes, sauerkraut and a thing called Salsa Americana. My wife and I found it not half bad, but back at home when I tried it on my grandchildren, it was no deal. Hot dogs with avocado and mayo, try it.
While in Chile we visited a very interesting old port city about 75 miles north of Santiago. Founded in 1536 Valparaiso is known for its steep funiculars and colorful homes. The historic quarter of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Before the Panama Canal was built this city was a big deal and known by international sailors as “Little San Francisco, the Jewel of the Pacific.”
Back in Santiago, before we flew to Argentina, we visited several wineries that are not far from the city. Watch out California, these wines are pretty good.
The Bay Window editor agrees with me that South America is a wonderful place and allowed me to tell this story in two parts. So here ends part one. Look for part two soon that will include Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls and Rio de Janeiro.
As always, podonnell@fullerton.edu
Where Did All The Money Flow Go?
MONEY VELOCITY IS AT AN ALL-TIME LOW. WHY DOES IT MATTER?
BY IVAN ILLÁN
There are many economic measurements that could be referenced when formulating a forecast. You’re probably familiar with economic data like unemployment figures, Fed funds rate and the inflation rate. Those are important, but don’t tell the whole story on the state of the economy, much less the direction in which things may be headed. In our own research, part of our investment committee decision-making discussions, we often like to seek out more obscure data. The velocity of money (a.k.a., Velocity of M2 Money Stock or simply, money velocity) is one such metric.
Money velocity (MV) isn’t a complicated concept. The Federal Reserve might describe it as the turnover rate of a dollar through the U.S. economy. A higher MV figure means a dollar is cycling through domestic transactions for goods and services more frequently. Conversely, a lower figure would mean the exact opposite, which could indicate a slowing economic backdrop. Referencing data on MV from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, we see something noteworthy. In Q4 2021, the velocity of M2 money stock slowed to a stunning 1.123. Essentially, this means that $1
USD cycled through the US economy in Q4 2021 about 1.123 times. During the Great Financial Crisis (GFC), MV went from a high of 1.989 at the GFC’s start in Q3’07 to a low of 1.712 by end of the crisis in Q1’09. Now surprisingly, MV is –34.4% lower than where it was at coming out of the GFC. This seems troubling.
It’s possible that a declining MV could have been directly attributed to record low interest rates, which resulted from record high growth of money supply. Afterall, the formula for MV is simple: GDP/Money Supply. Therefore, a huge increase in the denominator naturally results in a lower figure without the same corresponding increase in GDP. If not cycling through transactions, where did all that newly minted money go?
Instead of spending new money injected into the economic system over the past 13 years, consumers and businesses have been either (1) hoarding, (2) investing, or (3) paying down debt. Household savings rates spiked during the past couple of years, which resulted in cash hoarding in checking and savings accounts. Since the GFC, and because of record low interest rates, investors allocated monies towards various asset classes, primarily corporate stock shares and real estate. Households took some of that new money and paid down debt, while corporations took advantage of the low rates and issued record amounts of new debt. U.S. corporations are now sitting atop the highest corporate debt mountain in U.S. history.
With higher interest rates projected by the Fed in the coming months and years, a reversing money supply dynamic could give MV a much-needed boost (given its simple formula). That boost will depend on GDP remaining at least at its current level. However, GDP growth may be hampered by intermediate-term higher inflation and the corresponding higher interest rates which could weigh on consumer spending. This could effectively pump the breaks on continued U.S. economic expansion and may even become a stronger headwind. Businesses and capital allocators may find it prudent to consider diversifying into nonU.S. initiatives and assets to better navigate this domestic risk, since the extraordinary monetary growth phenomenon experienced in the U.S. has been less pronounced in most other developed economies.
Just The Facts
TERMS OF THE NEW BASEBALL CONTRACT
BY RYAN G. COOK
Thankfully, baseball is back in action after the MLB’s 9th work stoppage. It was the first in almost three decades. A work stoppage is a strategy used by ownership during a labor dispute, and a lockout is a tool ownership can utilize to control negotiations. In a lockout, the management tells workers: don’t show up. While in a strike, workers tell management: we’re not going to show up. Leagues can operate without a new collective bargaining agreement in place; but it is common practice to use a lockout rather than wait for a possible strike.
“You want to control the timing of the dispute,” MLB Commissioner, Rob Manfred said, “If you play without an agreement, you’re vulnerable to a strike at any point in time. What happened in 1994 is the M.L.B.P.A. picked August when we were most vulnerable because of the proximity of the large revenue dollars associated with the postseason. We wanted to take that option away and try to force the parties to deal with the issues and get an agreement now.” Nonetheless the arguments and negotiations ended just in time and The MLBPA voted to ratify the agreement by a 26-12 vote and the MLB owners voted 30-0 in favor, making it official.
Here are some of the new terms of the new Collective Bargaining Agreement:
Term: Five years from 2022 to December 1, 2026
• Minimum Salaries: The major league minimum salary will increase from $570,500 to $700,000 and increase by $20,000 per season through 2026. The CBA sets minimum salaries for players on 40man rosters, with a significant increase for players under their second major league contract or with at least one day of major league service time. Free agent players can negotiate higher salaries.
• Expanded Playoffs: 12 teams will make the playoffs starting in 2022. The two division winners with the best records in each league will receive a bye. The third division winner will be the highest seed in the first round and the wild card team with the best record will be the next. These two teams will host a threegame first round series. Starting in 2023, all teams will play each other, including teams in both leagues, in a more balanced schedule.
• Game Operations:
o Larger bases from 15 to 18 inches squared
o 14 pitching clock possibly 19 with man on base
o Ban on defensive shifts must have two infielders on each side of second base
o No game 163 in case of ties
o The universal designated hitter will be used in both leagues starting in 2022
o Seven inning double headers and ghost runners in extra innings are gone
• Sponsor Patches and Helmet Decals: Clubs allowed to make sponsorship agreements for patches on jersey sleeves and decals on helmets. Estimated value $6-8 million per team, per year
• Sports Betting: A new policy for the players governing commercial arrangements with sports betting companies.
• Roster Size: MLB will continue the 26-man roster limit, increasing to 28 in September, with a limit of 13 pitchers on the roster and 14 in September.
• Trade Deadline: The Commissioner may set the Major League Trade Deadline on a date between July 28th and August 3rd.
