NBINDY 03.15.24 by Times Media Group

Visit Newport Beach Makes History with Post-Super Bowl Drone Light Show

By Christopher Trela | NB Indy

The Kansas City Chiefs may have won this year’s Super Bowl, but Visit Newport Beach scored big with the first-ever 1,000 drone light show extravaganza (the largest drone show to-date in the U.S.) above Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas following the big game on February 11.

According to Visit Newport Bach, the 12-minute spectacle, titled “Touch Down in Newport Beach,” was a fusion of Newport Beach visuals and real-time football flair.

One thousand drones, meticulously choreographed into intricate formations, illuminated the night sky with vibrant colors and dynamic patterns during the drone show which encouraged viewers to come to Newport Beach with scenes of jets flying over Newport Beach landmarks, a luxurious yacht, a champagne celebration and other visuals (including a depiction of Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift nestled

within a heart formation).

The drones also created a QR code in the sky, prompting viewers to scan it for a chance to win a vacation package to Newport Beach which Visit Newport Beach said resulted in hundreds of giveaway sign-ups.

Newport Beach City Manager Update

By Grace Leung, Newport Beach City Manager

The City of Newport Beach and the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation hosted a ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 27 to kick off construction of a new lecture hall adjacent to the Central Library at 1000 Avocado Ave.

Members of the Newport Beach City Council, Newport Beach Public Library Foundation and Library Board of Trustees

“We are thrilled to have pioneered the largest drone show in the U.S., showcasing the fusion of cutting-edge technology and destination marketing,” said Gary Sherwin, President & CEO of Visit Newport Beach. “We had two shows at the

LIGHT SHOW Page 8

participated in a ceremonial “gold shovel” groundbreaking to mark the occasion.

The $23.4 million lecture hall, to be known as Witte Hall, is being financed through a cost-sharing agreement between the City and Foundation.

The 9,800-square-foot building, designed to complement the existing Central Library and City Hall architecture, will include tiered, stadium seating for about 300 people. The new auditorium will

By NB Indy Staff

According to the Newport Beach Police Department, residential burglaries recently occurred on Kingsport Drive in the Pelican Ridge community and on Yacht Colinia in the Broadmoor Sea View community.

Sometime between February 28 and March 6 in the Pelican Ridge community while the victim was away, an unknown suspect accessed the backyard of the property and stacked patio chairs on a table to reach a second story window.

The suspect shattered the window to get inside. Once inside, the suspect ransacked the master closet. The suspect also located a safe in the home and pried it open before fleeing the scene. The loss is unknown at this time. No suspect information is available.

Around 9 p.m. on February 28 in the

INDYPOLL

COASTAL

Grace Leung, Newport Beach City Manager

Drones form familiar patters in the sky above Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas

As part of the Keck Medicine of USC Health System, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only two university-based medical centers in Orange County. That means you have access to world-renowned specialists, leading-edge treatment options, and the nation’s most advanced clinical research.

More than 40 years of academic leadership is why USC Norris is ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the top 15 cancer programs in the nation and one of the Best Specialty Hospitals for Cancer.

Our Orange County oncology experts have been putting you at the center of your care for years. Find out why we’re your best choice.

Together we are limitless.

LOCAL FOCUS

Annual Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival Returns to Balboa Yacht Club June 7-8

By NB Indy staff

The 8th Annual Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival will return to the Balboa Yacht Club, June 7 – 8, 2024 with more than 40 wooden vessels of all sizes on display, and a collection of master artisans and craftsmen at work.

This year’s festival theme is “The Art & Craft of the Wooden Boat” in celebration of the creative artistry, intricate craftsmanship, and timeless beauty of wooden boats.

“Event guests will be able to immerse themselves in the centuries-old artform of wooden boat building, and the fine woodworking and artistic details that adorn the boats,” said event chair Stephen Paljieg. “This year’s event will be bigger and better than ever. Its theme captures the essence of the passion and artistry behind these magnificent, one-of-a-kind watercrafts and the inclusion of the master craftsmen who build and keep them in ‘Bristol condition’ takes it to a whole new level of experience.”

In 2017, the event was officially recognized by the Orange County Board of Supervisors, who proclaimed the

second weekend in June the “Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival Weekend.”

Event guests will be able to stroll the Balboa Yacht Club docks, board the wooden boats that have come for the festival and talk to owners about what makes their wooden vessel special.

There’s also an opportunity to step back in time to cruise aboard the America – a replica of the 139-foot wooden sailing yacht that won the historic Royal Yacht Squadron’s 100 Guinea Cup race in 1851.

There will be plenty to do on land where maritime craftsman will be at work, guest speakers will be telling tales of experiences with wooden boats, and plein air artists will be capturing the beauty of the boats in Newport Harbor. Add live music, activities for kids, specialty craft cocktails with artisan foods and you’ve got something for everyone on Saturday, June 8.

A first this year: an expansion of the weekend’s festivities to an Inaugural Opening Night on Friday, June 7.

The evening will include cocktails and appetizers aboard the America, early access to tour some of the amazing boats and craftsmen exhibits. Dinner, music and a live auction under the stars will follow.

The 2024 Newport Beach Wooden Festival is hosted by Balboa Yacht Club in collaboration with the City of Newport Beach, the County of Orange, and Visit Newport/Newport Beach & Co.

The Balboa Yacht Club is at 1801 Bayside Drive in Corona del Mar.

The 2024 Newport Beach Wooden Festival is hosted by Balboa Yacht Club in collaboration with the City of Newport Beach, the County of Orange and Visit Newport Beach/Newport Beach & Co.

Festival tickets are $15, Cruises on the America are $75, Inaugural Opening Night tickets are $175. Children under 12 are free. All tickets can be purchased in advance online. Saturday Festival Tickets can also be purchased at the gate on the day of the event (June 8). Visit https://www.newportbeachwoodenboatfestival.com for tickets and more information.

PIZZERIA SAPORI NOW OPEN NEXT DOOR!

Famous authentic pizzas. We stay true to pizza’s Neapolitan roots and traditions, creating the most authentic pizza possible. Our ingredients are second to none. We use simple natural ingredients which are imported from the best sources in Italy.

We have been serving the ﬂavors of Italy in Newport Beach since 1989.

Our eclectic wine menu offers many great Italian and California choices to pair with your meal.

A genuine Mediterranean setting coupled with experienced and knowledgeable waiters add to Sapori’s authenticity.

Boat at the 2023 Wooden Boat Festival. Photo by Jim Collins

Op/Ed by Marie Garceau: Keep Your Sobriety Intact on St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day is upon us, and the weekend will likely bring big celebrations at bars, pubs, and communities. It’s no secret that St. Paddies Day is associated with heavy drinking, green beer, and brutal hangovers.

It can be challenging for anyone new to sobriety or someone who overcame drug or alcohol addiction if they want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. However, being sober doesn’t mean you stop having fun. You can still celebrate the day and keep your sobriety intact. Fortunately, there are practical tips and helpful information you can use to make this happen.

For instance, remind yourself why you are sober, and don’t do it alone. You can still have fun and celebrate but do it with other sober people. Ev-

eryone has their reasons for stopping drinking; remind yourself of those reasons and hold yourself accountable.

Know your triggers; it doesn’t matter if you are a recovering addict or have removed alcohol from your life. Be cautious around possible triggers that pose a challenge. Most people in this situation choose to skip the bar and find something fun to do or go to a sober St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

Keep a non-alcoholic drink or mocktail in your hand. People will not bother you to ask if you want a drink if you already have something to sip on, like a mocktail. This also leads to planning how to say no. You will encounter social pressure if you go to a bar on St. Patrick’s Day. It’s

Living in the Heights

Living in Newport Beach provides one with a glamorous and often comforting distraction from the outside world.

Before I retired, I spent a majority of my time outside its boundaries, but since retirement, I have slowly immersed myself in life here in the Heights.

Although I grew up in a beach city, it has never been the beach which has attracted me for the physical activity it allows, but moreover it is the beauty and pace of life that one finds here that is so alluring.

In particular, I love the Heights because it provides the luxury of living close to the ocean without having to get involved in the crowds and the

traffic. It also reminds me of an area in the town in which I grew up called the “tree section.” That is certainly one of the attractions of the Heights too, the number and variety of full-grown trees.

I love walking around my neighborhood for exercise and to marvel over all the unique homes and yards. Over the years, the transition from cottages to large houses which dominate the lots has been a constant phenomenon. But the variety allowed by all the different styles, large and small, has been consistently captivating.

Even though I am a frequent walker in the area, I never fail to marvel over something new.

In addition to the variety of houses,

unavoidable. It’s wise to practice ways to refuse alcohol.

Finally, if all else fails, take a walk outside if you feel overwhelmed. The most straightforward solutions are usually the best. Remove yourself from any situation you know will lead to relapse. This is also why it’s essential to be with a sober friend or loved one; there is accountability and someone to lean on.

The health benefits of sobriety are numerous. Along with improving your sleep and physical and mental health, there is an essential societal gain. Being sober on St. Patrick’s Day or any day removes all chance of impaired driving.

Unfortunately, when heavy drinking is promoted or advertised, it may

lead to increased instances of drunk or drugged driving. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were 95 alcohol-related traffic deaths in Newport Beach in 2021 and 541 DUI arrests. Most of the deaths occurred in individuals ages 21 to 34.

If you are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day sober, take steps to protect your sobriety and look out for one another. If you are consuming alcohol, drink responsibly, know your limits, and do not drink and drive.

Marie Garceau has been working in the field of substance use and addiction recovery for over a decade. She works at DRS and primarily focuses on reaching out to the community and spreading awareness.

EDITORIAL

EDITOR Christopher Trela christopher@newportbeachindy.com

DESIGN/PRODUCTION

CREATIVE & MARKETING DIRECTOR Tracy Powell

in the last few years I have become aware of the variety of dogs in Newport. The Heights has to be one of the best places in the city to walk your dog, particularly on the streets with less traffic. Every day I see at least a dozen dogs, many of which I have never seen before, parading up and down my street and adjoining ones.

And certainly one of the other benefits of dog walking is that it helps foster communication between the dog owners.

The beautiful park on Cliff Drive is a dog walkers’ paradise in addition to being a location for planned and impromptu friend and family outings. It is located on one of the most popular routes through the Heights

SALES

ADVERTISING SALES TEAM Carol Josepher, Chris Mattingley, Dawn Lindeman , Mara Hertel

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tina Leydecker tina@firebrandmediainc.com

ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION: Tel: 949-715-4100 | Fax: 949-715-4106

from which the park gets its name. Newport Heights is also a good neighborhood in which to find and foster friendship because of the pace of life one finds here. Instead of driving 20 miles several days a week in retirement to get together with friends, I have discovered a good number of them nearby. We share texts, emails, food, camaraderie, walks and memories.

But mostly we share a friendship that helps to comfort and sustain us on a daily basis.

Lynn Lorenz / Newport Heights

PUBLISHER

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Steve Zepezauer

PRESIDENT OF SALES & MARKETING Scott Sanchez

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Tiﬀany Thompson

INDY LETTER POLICY

Please limit topics to local concerns, and try to keep to 500 words or less. Letters may be edited for clarity, length, or appropriateness; we reserve the right to not run a letter. Please supply name and contact info, although only name and city will be printed. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reﬂect those of Firebrand Media or its employees.

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT Volunteer to Volunteer: A Path to Personal Enrichment

By Richard Simon | NB Indy

The greatest gift granted to humankind is time.

To that end, many hundreds of Newport residents, from altruistic teenagers to the most senior of senior citizens, gift their time by volunteering with dozens of charities, nonprofits, and other civic entities with the selfless goal of bettering society at large.

For those who want to volunteer but don’t know where to start, Newport Beach offers a guide on its website under the title “Citizen Participation,” which presents any number of areas where one might sign up.

Some of those areas include boards, commissions, committees and other civic groups. Participation can be as simple as attending those meetings, or actually applying for positions to the aforementioned leadership and influence areas when announced. The best place to start a search is by visiting the city’s specific volunteer website: www.newportbeachca.gov/howdo-i-/find/volunteer-opportunities.

Additionally, Newport “volunteers” a list of non-City volunteer opportunities, which included Hoag Hospital Auxiliary, California Department of Parks and Recreation, California

Coastal Commission, America’s Natural and Cultural Resources, One OC, County of Orange, Newport Bay Conservancy and Surfrider Association.

Newport Beach City Council member Robyn Grant feels that “other than raising a family, volunteering is one of the most important things you can do. It allows you to accomplish great things in your backyard.”

Even though she campaigned hard to win her seat, Grant doesn’t view

herself as political, instead she sees her role on the city council as an extension of her longstanding work as a community volunteer.

“I represent the interests of our 85,000 residents and look for ways we can agree instead of focusing on differences,” she said.

Prior to running for office, Grant served on five city boards and commissions, including stints on the arts and library commission, as well as

on the Civil Service Board — all city council appointments. Additionally, she served on the board of Ballet Pacifica, where she helped “choreograph” community awareness.

For the last 10 years, she has served on the board of directors for Speak Up Newport. A dyed-in-the-fur dog lover, Grant also serves on the board of the Friends of the Newport Beach Animal shelter.

VOLUNTEER Page 9

top left: Newport Beach City Councilmember Robyn Grant and Newport Beach City Manager Grace Leung at the Newport Beach Animal Shelter. Grant volunteers on the board of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter Foundation. Photo by Chris Trela; top right:

Volunteers Ron Rubino and Sharon Esterley

STEPPING OUT

Segerstrom Center Hosts “A Broadway Birthday: Sondheim, Lloyd Webber, and Friends” on March 28

By Christopher Trela | NB Indy March 22 is a special day in theatrical history—it’s the birthday of two of Broadway’s legendary composers, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Stephen Sondheim.

Sondheim was born in New York in 1930. Over his 70-year career he penned lyrics (and often the music) for such noted classics as “West Side Story,” “Company,” “A Little Night

Music,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Into the Woods,” and many others. He died in 2021.

Lloyd Webber was born n London in 1948, and is know for the musicals “Phantom of the Opera,” “Cats,” Evita,” “Sunset Boulevard,” and many more.

To celebrate the occasion, Segerstrom Center for the Arts is presenting a special evening on Thursday, March 28 called “A Broadway Birth-

day: Sondheim, Lloyd Webber, and Friends.”

The “friends” celebrating this unusual joint birthday celebration are the Tony-winning legend Betty Buckley (who starred in two Sondheim musicals, “Cats” and “Sunset Boulevard”), Segerstrom Center favorite Liz Callaway, Alex Joseph Grayson (direct from the acclaimed new revival of “Parade”), Aaron Lazar and Kerry O’Malley (who recently spread holiday cheer in Segerstrom’s Cabaret Series with the “Broadway Hollywood Holiday Songbook”), plus TV star and Orange County School of the Arts Hall of Fame alumni Matthew Morrison.

Tickets start at $49 and are available for purchase online at www.scfta. org, in person at 600 Town Center Dr. in Costa Mesa, and by phone at (714) 556-2787.

About the Birthday Boys

According to information from Segerstrom Center, Stephen Sondheim was widely acknowledged as the most innovative, most influential, and most important composer and lyricist

in modern Broadway history. He was the winner of an Academy Award, numerous Tony Awards, multiple Grammy Awards and a Pulitzer Prize.

Some of his other accolades include a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kennedy Center Honors (1993), the National Medal of Arts (1996), the American Academy of Arts and Letters’ Gold Medal for Music (2006) and a special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre (2008).

Andrew Lloyd Webber has received a number of awards, including a knighthood in 1992, followed by a peerage for services to the arts, six Tonys, three Grammys (as well as the Grammy Legend Award), an Academy Award, seven Olivier Awards, a Golden Globe, a Brit Award, the 2006 Kennedy Center Honors.

He is one of 17 people to have won an Oscar, an Emmy, a Grammy, and a Tony. He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is an inductee into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, and is a fellow of the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors.

SEGERSTROM CENTER Page 10

Stephen Sondheim

Andrew Lloyd Webber

STEPPING OUT

Michael Jackson Musical Moonwalks to Segerstrom Center March 19-31

By Christopher Trela | NB Indy

In June 1992, Michael Jackson (the “King of Pop”) embarked on his Dangerous World Tour that ran through November 1993. Jackson performed for more than three million people and reportedly grossed $100 million.

Imagine being a fly on the wall watching Jackson prepare for the tour.

Two-time Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Lynn Nottage, known locally for her plays “Crumbs from the Table of Joy” and “Intimate Apparel” that were produced at South Coast Repertory, did more than imagine—she penned the book for “MJ,” the Tony Award-winning musical that moonwalks into Segerstrom Center March 19-31.

Created by Tony Award-winning choreography and director Christopher Wheeldon, “MJ” takes audiences behind the scenes as Jackson prepares for the Dangerous World Tour.

According to information from Segerstrom Center, “MJ” goes

beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Jackson into legendary status.

The show tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life and features more than two dozen of his biggest hits.

Roman Banks (Broadway’s “Dear Evan Hansen” and “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series”) will play the title role of MJ.

The MJ creative team features Scenic Design by two-time Tony and Emmy Award winner Derek McLane, Lighting Design by seventime Tony Award winner Natasha Katz, Costume Design by Tony and Emmy Award winner Paul Tazewell, Sound Design by Tony Award winner Gareth Owen, Projection Design by two-time Tony Award nominee Peter Nigrini, Hair & Wig Design by two-time Emmy Award nominee Charles G. LaPointe and Makeup Design by Emmy nominee Joe Dulude II.

For tickets, visit www.SCFTA. org.

• ROOFING REPLACEMENTS/REPAIRS

• BALCONY DECK STRUCTURAL RECONSTRUCTION

• ROOFING WATERPROOFING

• EXTENSIVE DRY ROT/TERMITE REPAIRS

• SHEET METAL FOR HARSH COASTAL ENVIRONMENTS

• IN DEPTH SPECIFICATION/STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

• INTERIOR DAMAGE REPAIRS

• BALCONY RAIL SYSTEM DESIGNS/GLASS/CABLE

• PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES

• DOOR & WINDOW REPLACEMENT

• STUCCO/PLASTER RECONSTRUCTION

• RAIN GUTTERS/CHIMNEY CAPS

• SKYLIGHTS/ATTIC VENTING SYSTEMS

Roman Banks portrays Michael Jackson in the musical “MJ” – photo by Matthew Murphy

First California Location of Toastique Pops Up on Balboa Island

By Christopher Trela | NB Indy

Balboa Island residents said farewell to their local Starbucks on Marine Avenue and hello to Toastique, an artisan toast and juice café conceptualized on the East Coast that took over the Starbucks spot. The Balboa Island location is the brand’s first in California.

According to press material, Toastique has gained recognition over the years in the wellness industry for its mission to create stunning food on the premise of honoring the natural beauty and simplicity in locally sourced ingredients.

Toastique has developed a broad menu of unique and health-conscious toasts, smoothies, coldpressed juices, and other items that promote and fit into our local health-conscious lifestyle.

Among the many toast creations are Tomato Buratta (herbed ricotta, pesto, tomatoes, burrata, basil, olive oil, and balsamic glaze on rustico toast) and the PB Crunch

(honey roasted peanut butter, bananas, strawberries, blueberries, berry jam, granola, peanuts, honey drizzle, and mint on walnut raisin toast).

Toastique also has a variety of

The Newport Beach location was launched by husband-and-wife team Lyndon Baptiste and Rhea Cayenne, alongside relatives and long-time Newport Beach residents Anthony and Lesley Capolino. The two couples make up Orange Seed LLC, a company investing in high caliber food and beverage brands.

tropical smoothie bowls, such as the Cocolada (pineapple, banana, coconut milk, and lime topped with banana, pineapple, coconut, sliced almonds, candied ginger, granola, lime wedge, and honey drizzle), as well as an assortment of nutrient rich cold-pressed juices plus smoothies, espresso and coffee, and other grab-and-go options.

Light Show

ready depending on who won the big game, so it was fun to see the breathtaking display live commemorating the Kansas City Chiefs’ triumphant victory, while also extending a warm invitation for fans to experience the unparalleled magic of Newport Beach post-game.”

In partnership with COX, the official telecommunications provider of Allegiant Stadium, the light show was live streamed by viewers worldwide. Visit Newport Beach also launched a commercial that aired in 60,000 hotel rooms along the Las Vegas strip. Using geo-fencing

“Bringing this concept to California has been a journey filled with love and adventure, from moving away from our home in London to be nearby our family in Newport Beach, to joining forces with the incredible Toastique team, and pouring all of our energy into this concept,” Cayenne, who revealed that her favorite Toastique creations were the Tuscan Tuna (tuna dressed with sundried tomatoes, capers, scallions, herb vinaigrette, balsamic glaze, kalamata olives, tomato, bibb lettuce, and lemon twist on rustico toast) and the Smoked Salmon (smoked pastrami salmon, herbed cream cheese spread, arugula, cucumber, pickled onion, capers, toasty seasoning, microgreens and lemon twist on sourdough toast).

For more information, visit https://toastique.com/balboaisland.

technology, a suite of ads continued after the game until February 20.

The drone light show was designed by Skyworx, a team of world class engineers, pilots and artists that combine innovative drone technology and immersive design to create spectacular drone light shows—the same company behind the dynamic drone light show during the Balboa Bay Resort’s 75th anniversary celebration last fall.

For more information, please visit www.TouchdownInNewportBeach. com.

Toastique products

As a council member she emphasizes that her time investment is in “promoting public safety, supporting local business, protecting our environment, maintaining infrastructure, and enhancing our overall quality of life.”

For Grant, the work of city council is rewarding. Getting elected is a huge honor and I am very pleased to have the opportunity to continue to serve my community this way,” she concluded.

“Volunteering offers profound psychological benefits,” offered Newport Beach-based psychologist, Dr. Shelly Zavala. Citing from the book, “What Happy People Know” by Therapist Dan Baker, Zavala points out that engaging in acts of volunteerism fosters a sense of connection and community, but also boosts our self-esteem and happiness. Fundamentally, from a physiological perspective, “helping others triggers the release of positive chemicals in the brain, such as endorphins, which enhance our mood and overall sense of well-being,” she said. Moreover, Zavala says, “Baker’s advice underscores a broad principle: the pursuit of greater good benefits not only society at large, but enriches our personal lives, as well.”

Longtime Newport residents Sharon Esterley and husband Ron Rubino (known socially as the Esterbinos),

have committed much of their retired time to volunteering with a broad variety of local charities and causes.

Having graduated UC Berkley with a degree in Social Services, Esterley’s first job out of university was to discover what she wanted to do, which she finally did upon returning from a six-month solo exploration (of self and cultural) throughout Europe.

Her first real job, a three-year stint as a social worker in Orange County, led to her appointment as the Director for the Social Services Agency. That agency merged with three other agencies, Mental Health, Public Health and Social Services to then blend into the Human Services Agency (HSA).

Within that framework, Esterley created the Volunteer Services Program for the HSA, which managed and supported volunteers throughout the system. She also created Volunteers in Child Abuse, which helps families who require protective service.

Over the years, Esterley has been an active volunteer in more than 40 different community charities. Some of her favorites include Friends of Newport Beach Animal Shelter (she is a founding board member, and owner of three dogs), American Cancer Society (she founded the longrunning Cattle Baron’s League and Cattle Baron’s Ball fundraisers); Race for the Cure fundraiser; Human Options (shelters for battered women); Southern California Volunteers

Coordinators Council, and STOPGAP (a drama therapy organization for women).

Esterley admits that volunteer work has been her passion, ever since she founded her high school’s drill team. Coaching the girls how to march in unison proved not to be her biggest challenge; it was instructing them how to make pom poms that didn’t shake apart during their first routine.

She admits to a compulsion to volunteer.

“I like to see positive things happen within our community. I love the positive energy that comes within a group of people who are passionate about their causes,” she said, adding, “I do consider myself a leader among volunteers because I am bossy.”

Whatever her formula, her work gets results.

With a degree in Accounting and a Masters in Public Administration, husband Ron retired after 20 years with the County of Orange, as Deputy to the County Administrative Officer, in charge of all information systems. Ultimately, the private sector sought his management skills. With several partners, he developed two successful information management companies, which he recently sold.

So what does one do with abundant free time and accumulated skills? By becoming an adjunct professor teaching Management at his alma mater, Cal State Long Beach, as well as a guest lecturing at both Cal State

Fullerton, and UCI.

“Teaching was a great way of staying current and meeting interesting people,” he reflected. Still, creating lectures and grading exams didn’t fill his time.

“Then I saw an opportunity to get involved in our homeowners’ association; it was very similar to the concept of public administration, the perfect fit,” Rubino apprised. That “fit” still fits… nine years later.

Rubino’s neighborhood leadership and his lobbying efforts on behalf of Eastbluff were recognized by the Newport Beach City Council. They encouraged him — with great success five years ago — to run for a position on the Newport Beach Aviation Committee.

Knowing of his interest in airport issues related to the Eastbluff community, the board of the private lobbying group, SPON (Still Protecting Our Newport) brought him onboard “…in large part to lobby against state dictatorship. I’m not opposed to development, but we do have to be creative,” he said.

Psychologist Zavala succinctly summed up the importance of giving: “Volunteering serves as a powerful tool for personal growth and societal improvement, and that embodies the essence of that old adage, ‘by giving, we receive.’”

City Manager

PAGE 1

host a variety of authors, speakers, lecturers and other events.

Construction is expected to take about 21 months and be completed by early 2026.

Central Library patrons should note that parking will be significantly reduced for the duration of construction. If parking is not available in front of the library, please use the Civic Center parking structure at 100 Civic Center Dr., with convenient access to the library’s north-facing entrance near City Hall.

O’Neill Celebrates “Unnoticed Excellence” in State of the City Address

Mayor Will O’Neill borrowed a phrase from columnist George Will as a theme for his State of the City address on Thursday, February 29, spotlighting “unnoticed excellence” among Newport Beach’s civic, business and philanthropic organizations.

O’Neill’s address was the keynote speech of the Annual Mayor’s Dinner, sponsored by Speak Up Newport,

Segerstrom Center

PAGE 6

In 2001, The New York Times referred to him as “the most commercially successful composer in history”.

About the Artists

In an award-winning career that has encompassed TV, film, stage and concert work around the globe, Betty Buckley is probably best known as the quintessential musical theatre actress. Dubbed “The Voice of Broadway,” the multitalented artist is one of a precious few who helped change the face of musical theatre acting with her realistic, naturalistic approach to roles and her unique, expressive voice.

In addition to her contributions to the stage, Buckley has also released an astonishing 16 solo albums, a rarity in the world of musical theatre and in an ever-changing music business.

Buckley is no stranger to Segerstrom Center: she starred in the Broadway tour of “Hello Dolly” that came to The Center in 2019, and she has held audiences spellbound during three cabaret appearances in the Center’s Samueli Theatre, the latest in 2019.

“Segerstrom is one of my favorite arts centers in the world, it’s so beautiful,” said Buckley during an interview.

Liz Callaway is also a familiar face to Segerstrom Center audiences. She starred in a cabaret show last year with her sister Ann Hampton Callaway.

Callaway is a Tony and Grammy nominee and Emmy Award-winning actress, singer and recording artist. She made her Broadway debut in Stephen Sondheim’s “Merrily We Roll Along,” received a Tony Award

attended by more than 450 local business and community leaders. The event included a recognition of the City’s past mayors.

To watch a video of the event, please visit the City’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/user/ newportbeachgov.

Registration for City Summer Camps Now Open

Ascend to new heights of summer fun with Camp Newport, where the City offers hundreds of enriching experiences across Newport Beach! Kids can ride the waves of knowledge in our surf and bodyboarding camps, dive into the wonders of local marine life in the Ocean Adventure Program, catch some air in epic skateboarding camps, take their skills to new heights with an exciting selection of outdoor sports, or cultivate creativity in engaging STEM-infused science, music, technology and art camps. Secure your spot by April 4 for a 10 percent or more discount on most camps. Visit www.campnewport.com to elevate your child’s summer!

nomination for her performance in “Baby,” and for five years, won acclaim as Grizabella in “Cats” (a role originated by Betty Buckley). She has also starred in the original casts of “Miss Saigon,” “The Three Musketeers,” and “The Look of Love.”

Regional and international credits include “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Evita,” and “Sunset Boulevard.”

Alex Joseph Grayson is an actor and musician from Watertown, New York. He accredits his eclectic artistic influences to a nomadic upbringing as a military brat. Over the last decade, Alex has performed on the biggest stages of the American theatre, including Broadway, National Tours, and several regional theaters.

Aaron Lazar is an actor, singer, producer, and entrepreneur from Cherry Hill, New Jersey. After earning an MFA in

Peninsula Park Playground Improvements Underway

The City has begun renovating the Peninsula Park playground, adjacent to the Balboa Pier. The work began on February 28 and is scheduled to be completed before the busy summer season.

The renovations include installation of new playground equipment with a lifeguard theme, and flexible safety surfacing.

Construction fencing has been installed around the work areas, but pedestrian access to the public restroom will be maintained during construction.

Be Well Mobile Crisis Response Update

The Be Well mobile crisis response team operates in Newport Beach 12 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to mental and behavioral health crises. The mobile unit is staffed with mental health specialists and works closely with the City’s police and fire departments.

This week, the Be Well team:

musical theater from the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Aaron put plans of being a doctor on hold and moved to New York City. His career spans Broadway, Television, Film, and Concerts and has allowed him to share his passion for the arts with audiences worldwide.

Kelly O’Malley was raised in Nashua, New Hampshire. She was educated at Duke University and the American Repertory Theater Institute for Advanced Theater Training at Harvard University. Her television credits include the upcoming second season of Marc Cherry’s “Why Women Kill” for Paramount Plus and many other television credits.

Her New York theatre credits include roles on Broadway (and the First National Tour) in “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas,” Into the Woods,” “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever,” and many others.

• Transported four people to the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter for intakes.

• Transported a person to a substance use facility for treatment.

• Transported a person to the Be Well sobering station for treatment.

• Transported a person to his homeless services provider.

The mobile crisis team is dispatched through the Newport Beach Police Department. To request service, dial 911 or call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at (949) 644-3717.

Homelessness Update

This week, the City’s homeless outreach and response teams:

• Placed a family of three into a family shelter. The homeless liaison officer provided a meal and new clothing for them with Good Giving donations.

• Completed a referral to the Yale Navigation Center.

• Continued to shelter people. Twenty-two people who had been experiencing homelessness in Newport Beach are sheltered in the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter.

Matthew Morrison is a versatile actor who is recognized for his work on-stage and on-screen. He has been nominated for Tony, Emmy and Golden Globe Awards. He made his debut on Broadway in “Footloose” but his big break came when he was cast as heartthrob Link Larkin in the hit “Hairspray.” Morrison was later nominated for a Tony Award for his role in “The Light in the Piazza,” and received a Drama Desk Nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Musical for “10 Million Miles.” He also starred in the Tony-winning revival of “South Pacific” at Lincoln Center Theater in New York.

In 2010, Morrison became a true household name when he was cast as a series regular in FOX’s musical comedy television series “Glee,” where he starred as the director of the glee club. The series wrapped in 2015 after six successful seasons.

Newport’s Land Use Element is the Hot Topic at the Speak Up Newport Meeting March 19

By NB Indy Staff

Where will the City of Newport Beach place the 4,845 new Housing Units mandated by the State?

The city is currently amending the City’s Land Use Element, adding a Housing Overlay Zoning District citywide, and adopting new design standards to provide for the new housing units.

How will the city do that and maintain the character of Newport Beach? How will traffic and envi-

ronmental impacts be addressed in the Land Use Element and Zoning Code changes? How will your neighborhood be affected?

Those are the topics at the Speak Up Newport meeting on Tuesday, March 19 with special guest speaker Seimone Jurjis, the City’s Assistant Manager and Community Development Director.

Seimone Jurjis served as Community Development Director for the City of Newport Beach before being

named Assistant City Manager last year. He continues to oversee Community Development Department operations while managing special projects.

Jurjis brings more than 30 years of experience in both the private and public sectors to his new role. He was selected as Community Development Director in August 2017, after having served as the City’s chief

Burglaries

PAGE 1

Pelican Ridge community while the victim was away, two unknown suspects accessed the backyard of the property from the hillside behind the home.

The suspects shattered a rear sliding glass door to get inside. Once inside, the suspects rummaged through drawers in the master bedroom before fleeing the scene. The burglary was discovered and reported to police the next morning.

Seimone Jurjis building official since 2011.

As director of the Community Development Department, Jurjis oversees a staff of 60 who administer the City’s General Plan as well as the City’s zoning, building, subdivision, real property, and environmental regulations, to ensure orderly and safe growth of the community.

Prior to joining the City of Newport Beach, Jurjis was the president and chief operating officer for a real estate company focusing on entitlements, land transactions and development. His other government experience includes director of planning and building safety, city engineer and building official for the City of El Segundo.

If you have a question you would like to ask the speaker, please send it to: question@speakupnewport.com. Attendees will also have the opportunity to submit questions during the program.

The Speak Up Newport meeting will be at the Civic Center Community Room, 100 Civic Center Drive. Reception is at 5:15 p.m. hosted by The Bungalow Restaurant. Program is 6 to 7 p.m. To participate in the free webinar please register at speakupnewport.com/housingamendments-2024. No Registration required for the live event.

The loss is unknown at this time. Suspect info: Two subjects wearing dark clothing, hoodies, and masks. One carried a backpack. If you see suspicious activity within your neighborhood (especially at a home where you know your neighbors are on vacation, have gone out for the evening, or their home is for sale), please call the Newport Beach Police Department immediately at (949) 6443717.

HOME SECURITY TIPS FROM NBPD

• Always lock your doors and windows when leaving, even if for only a few minutes. Second story windows and doors should be secured as if they were on the first story.

• Use timers on indoor lamps to give the appearance that you are home. If you’re going out for the evening, leave a television or a radio on in the home.

• If your home is equipped with an alarm, always activate it even if you’re only going out for a short walk.

o Consider adding a motion sensor in your master bedroom/ bathroom, which will activate the alarm if someone comes in through a glass window or door without opening it.

• Always keep your front and rear porch lights on from dusk to dawn and use motion detector lighting along the sides of your home or areas with little foot traffic.

• Make sure your utility box is secured with a padlock.

• Adjust window coverings for optimal privacy while maintaining good visibility outside.

• Assess whether or not a window can be easily accessed from a tree, balcony, roof, wall, or with patio furniture and adjust your security plan accordingly. Ladders should be stored inside or locked to a stationary object.

• If your garage door has a remote shutoff button on the wall-mounted control located in the garage, consider locking the door nightly. This will prevent your garage door from being opened remotely.

• If you have a safe, make sure that it is properly bolted to concrete so that it cannot be easily removed.

• Always close and lock your safe and never leave a key or combination out or in an easy to find location (e.g., office, nightstand, etc.).

• If you return home and find your pedestrian door that leads into your home locked, and you are certain that you left it unlocked, DO NOT GO INSIDE! Call 911.

Burglars often lock this door to slow down a victim, allowing the

time to get out of the home before the resident enters.