American Legion Post 291 in Newport Beach Celebrates 100th Birthday on July 4
By Richard Simon | NB Indy
It will be quite the celebration!
Come July 4 there will be a new centenarian in town: Post 291 of the American Legion.
In its 100-year existence, the 8,000-member, Balboa Peninsula-based Legion has grown from an energetic, proud and patriotic group of 30 WWI veterans to its current membership of more than 4,200 vets.
According to American Legion Post Commander Evin Plant, the Newport Beach Legion is the second largest in the nation.
Included in that number are 34 service members from WWII (1941-45); 260 from the Korean War (1950-53); and 2,437 from the undeclared Vietnam war (1955-75).
Like the Legion post, several of the current members also have reached the century mark.
Newport Beach City Manager Update
By Grace Leung, Newport Beach City Manager
A series of recommendations to improve the Newport Beach Police Department’s crime prevention and investigation techniques through upgrades in technology will move forward, following a presentation to the Newport Beach City Council.
At a City Council study session on
Tuesday, May 28, Newport Beach Police
Chief Joe Cartwright and Deputy Chief Javier Aguilar presented findings and recommendations from the Public Safety Technology Ad Hoc Committee.
The committee spent several months evaluating new technologies used by neighboring police departments, and visited agencies where some of the proposed technologies are now in use.
The primary goal, Chief Cartwright told the Council, is to equip officers and civilian police staff with the latest tools to gather and analyze crime information to improve decision-making, which will aid in crime prevention, the apprehension of criminals, and the recovery of stolen property. Deployment of the technology will also act as a deterrent for individuals and groups who evaluate potential crime targets, increasing overall community safety.
The committee recommendations include:
• Developing a Crime Information Center (CIC) to serve as the central technology hub for real-time intelligence
The post’s remaining members comprise the Sons of American Legion (including daughters and spouses), the American Legion Auxiliary, and the American Legion Yacht Club.
The American Legion is far more than a group of service members getting together over “brewskies” to rehash and re-embellish memories of wartime adventure (many never saw combat, but all nonetheless served in invaluable assignments). It is a charitable organization providing support in three general areas: Veterans, Community and Youth.
Under the “Veterans” label, the Post supports 10 different groups or activities, including the Long Beach Veteran’s Hospital, Operation Comfort Warriors, Socks for Heroes, Mental Health Association of Orange County, the Scan Van Ride (a Vets’ Bike Ride), American Spartan (a service to disabled veterans), Homes for our Troops, Orange County Air Force Family Readiness, 5th Marines Combat Golf Tournament, and the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.
The Community component supports the Bob Hope USO Center, Newport Beach Police Association, Firemen and Lifeguard Recognition, Patriot Paws (Service Dogs) and HOAG Hospital City Charity Shoot.
The Youth category gives to Boys State, Boy Scouts of Orange County, CHOC
LEGION Page 4
gathering and assessments. The CIC would integrate new technologies with existing data systems to provide realtime information to field officers, analyze crime tends and patterns, and aid in crime prevention.
• Installing 70 Flock cameras (also known as ALPR, or automatic license plate readers) at all Newport Beach inbound and outbound gateways. The system includes access to nationwide data and flags “hotlisted” vehicles that have been used in crimes. The system provides alerts on stolen vehicles, Amber Alerts, missing and endangered persons, and more. The cameras will only be accessed as part of a crime investigation (not for traffic enforcement) and do not include facial recognition. Such cameras are already in use in 42 states and nearly 300 California jurisdictions.
• Licensing FUSUS software to boost the department’s access to video surveillance. FUSUS brings together video feeds from private, institutional and government systems, and integrates them into a single,
Residential Burglaries in Colony Community and Villas Fashion Island Community
By NB Indy Staff
A residential burglary recently occurred in The Colony Community between approximately May 6 and May 21.
While the victims were away, an unknown suspect removed a window screen to get into the unit. Inside, the suspect rummaged through the nightstand and ransacked the closet in the master bedroom before fleeing the scene through the front door.
There was no reported Loss. Suspect info not available.
A residential burglary recently occurred in the Villas Fashion Island Community between May 2 and May 22.
While the victim was away, an unknown suspect accessed the rear sliding glass door and shattered a pane in the door to get into the unit. Inside, the suspect went through a nightstand in the master bedroom, a nightstand and dresser in the guest bedroom, and cabinets in the kitchen before fleeing the scene.
Loss is unknown at this time. Suspect info not available.
NBPD says “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) 644-3717.
Please review the Home Security Tips available at nbpd.org/what-we-do/ information. The NBPD website also has a Home Security Checklist that can be used to conduct a security assessment on your home to see what security measures you can take to “harden the target.”
cloud-based platform. Investigations can proceed more quickly because private video feeds can be accessed immediately, rather than gathered from various locations. Participation is voluntary for businesses and others with video feeds, such as homeowners associations, who wish to include their cameras in the system.
• Developing a drone program. The NBPD will develop a program in which
COASTAL
CITY MANAGER Page 11
Grace Leung, Newport Beach City Manager
Tim Sullivan, Commander of the Sons of The American Legion; Evan Planto, Commander of American Legion Post 291 Newport Harbor; Mary Beth Martin, President of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 291 Newport Harbor; and David Campagnari, Commodore American Legion Yacht Club.
Tickets for the 2024 Pacific Wine & Food Classic at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort are On Sale Now
By Christopher Trela | NB Indy
The 2024 Pacific Wine & Food Classic at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort takes place on Saturday, Sept. 21, but tickets are already on sale, and with good reason: the event sells out every year so the earlier you obtain tickets the better.
According to my sources at Pacific Wine & Food Classic, the exclusive event presents an unrivaled culinary experience celebrating the diverse epicurean offerings of Southern California with exquisite wines, decadent cocktails, and delicious bites from Orange Counties top chefs.
‘We are thrilled to showcase the culinary brilliance of Orange County once more. This year, guests can look forward to an exclusive experience, indulging in a seamless fusion of premium wines and exceptional local dishes crafted by our gifted chefs,” said Pamela Waitt, president of OC Restaurant Association and founder of Pacific Wine & Food Classic.
The event boasts a line-up of more than 35 restaurants and food purveyors.
Back this year are The Taco Garden presented by TacoTuesday.com, paella by Chef Leo Razo of Villa Roma and
Cambalache, a silent disco, and mocktails from Waterloo.
New to the 2024 Pacific Wine & Food Classic:
• The Grand Wine Pavilion by San Luis Obispo Wine Collective featuring acclaimed wines from San Luis Obispo Coast Wine Collective and freshly grilled skewers by Sweetgreen along with a fresh baked bar by Scratch Bakery
• Mixology Masters by Licor43, sampling Licor 43, Lolea, Mar de Frades Martin Miller’s Gin and Villa Massa
• Welcome Cocktail this year will be the Villa Massa Limoncello Spritz
• 2024 James Beard Nominee and Forbes Best US Bar Team, Strongwater Anaheim will be featuring phenomenal cocktails and delicious bites.
• Whole pig Lechon feast by Lola’s by MFK
• JARS Sweets & Things by Chef Fabio Viviani
• The Terlato Lounge, sampling Bright & Bubbly Champagne & Prosecco, Crisp Whites & Rose, Radiant Reds, and The Spirit of Mixability
• Refresh & rehydrate” with San
Benedetto Water
Top local Newport Beach chefs and restaurants featured:
• Five Crowns & SideDoor, Executive Chef Matthew Luna
• Great Maple Restaurant
• Lido Bottle Works, Executive Chef Joel Gutierrez
• Muldoon’s Irish Pub
• Red O, Corporate Chef Andrew Bice
• Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, Co-Founder Wing Lam
The Pacific Wine & Food Classic takes place at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort located at 1131 Back Bay Dr. Early Bird tickets are available now. All guests must be age 21 and over to attend. Every ticket will be scanned, and guests will require ID to verify age. The Pacific Wine & Food Classic happens rain or shine.
Pacific Wine & Food Classic allows guests to taste bites from more than 35 local top chefs and restaurants and explore over 100 wines and handcrafted cocktails.
Visit www.PacificWineandFood. com for tickets and more information.
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.
Pacific Wine & Food
PIZZERIA SAPORI NOW OPEN NEXT DOOR!
Follies (Children’s Hospital), Special Olympics, the Youth Patriotic Singing Group, and several others.
In all, the Post donates nearly $318,000 annually to individuals and veterans’ organizations. Likewise, the Auxiliaries raise impressive donations.
Post 291 was founded in 1924 by a group of 30 World War I veterans who were residents of the Newport Harbor area. They held an organizational meeting in the quarters of the Balboa Chamber of Commerce. The group elected Raymond Hitchcock Brunswick as their first Commander,
A battle plan was formulated to raise the $1,500 needed to purchase a site on 10th Street. Through a series of fundraisers, the founders’ objective was attained.
Along with the property came a 25-year lease on the tidelands between the property and the bay. Subsequent efforts in 1925 secured a bank loan of $1,900 to construct a one-story hut that became the headquarters. The first meeting there was held December 2, 1925. Then came the great membership drive of 1926, resulting in a Post membership of 80.
The expanded membership voted to use part of its property as a hut site for the Newport Beach Boy Scouts Troop, formed in 1922. And to this day, the Scouts are on the list of organizations supported by Post 291.
In 1940, the city issued a new lease to the Post on 15th Street, its current location.
Members and their friends volunteered to construct the Great Hall in 1949. Unfortunately, a fire started by a faulty floor furnace razed the Hall in 1979. But
serendipitously, the Post leaders took out insurance 11 days earlier. The Hall was fully restored on July 4, 1980 — to appropriate celebration.
In 2002, Newport granted the Post a new 25-year lease, with a 25-year lease extension option, “thus,” read the tag sentence on an online Post bio, “leaving a path for our future membership to follow.”
Come Thursday, July 4, the Legion Post will hold an open-to-the-public
Use this QR code to go to NewportBeachIndy.com to get all the news and lifestyle information in Newport Beach
Centennial celebration: Legion members, along with Newport Beach Fire Department volunteers, will host a pancake breakfast, which will expand throughout the day and evening with performances by various bands.
On Friday, July 5, the Post 291 will host a Gala dinner in the Great Hall. “We’re hoping for 500 attendees,” said Post Commandant Plant. Celebrants will dine in a recently
ADVERTISING SALES TEAM Carol Josepher, Chris Mattingley, Adrienne Kruse, Mara Hertel
PRODUCTION MANAGER Tina Leydecker tina@firebrandmediainc.com
refurbished main hall that was originally erected between 1953 and 1955. The Post raised $600,000 to upgrade the main hall, kitchen (which old salts refer to as the galley), outside dining deck, and offices.
Although the look is subtly new, the building’s original spirit remains. The expanded kitchen runs seven days a week and is open for both lunch and dinner; breakfast is served on Sundays. The bar also runs daily and opens at 11 a.m. until closing. Needless to say, the prices are veteran friendly.
Post 291 for many is an important retreat for remembrance, respect, comradeship, social gatherings, marine recreation (there is a yacht club), and dining pleasure.
According to longtime American Legion member Neil Hardin, 75, “This organization brings me to the doorstep of camaraderie. Each morning for more than two decades, Dan (a fellow Legion member) and I gather here sipping coffee, watching TV and immersing ourselves in the pulse of this community. It’s about the friendships forged, the diverse veterans encountered and the enriching connection with local governance.”
Hardin’s friend Dan O’Sullivan, 80, has been an American Legion member for 23 years.
“This is where individuals who have served can openly share their experiences, unburdening themselves from the weight of what they’ve witnessed and done. It’s a supportive environment where conversations flow freely and there’s a genuine understanding of each other’s journeys.”
American Legion Post 291 is living history in Newport that’s available to –and for – everyone
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Steve Zepezauer
PRESIDENT
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Tiffany Thompson
Top: Aerial view of the American Legion Post 291. Photo courtesy of American Legion Post 291; bottom: Original Post 291 Hut on 10th Street. Photo courtesy of American Legion Post 291
Newport Beach Hero Supports Beach City Artists
Laguna Beach fine artist Jorg Dubin wrote a letter to the Laguna Beach Independent titled “Save Our Laguna Beach Artists.” Jorg defined the Laguna creative community as artists, craftspeople, musicians, writers and performers. Jorg said creativity is “A natural resource that has been woven into the fabric of Laguna. It’s a resource that is so important to this community and without it we would be just another beach town.”
Newport Beach and Laguna Beach have plenty in common. Amazing homes, breathtaking landscapes, eclectic cuisine, unique shopping, distinct neighborhoods. Newport Beach has a phenomenal yachting community. If we add board shapers and the boat craft industry, the cities are more alike than not. And Newport loves art!
If you know a working artist, you know their plight. Lack of affordable living, nowhere to create, and City Council needs to care about art as a business.
In 2023, I lost my husband, the love of my life. I have been a successful Southern California contemporary fine artist doing large format pieces in vibrant color of Fluid Multilayered Abstraction for three decades. I realized that I needed to move where my painting and life could thrive.
On March 1, I moved to Laguna
Applications
Beach. I have found a creative art spirit here, but my challenge is business growth. To apply for the Laguna Festival of Art. I need to wait for the 2026 season. Not exactly an option for someone highly motivated about growing their creative business.
It suddenly struck me that my art hero was only 12 miles north in Newport Beach. I have known successful fine artist Georgeana Ireland for a few years. Georgeana was an artist in the Fingerhut Gallery in Laguna Beach on PCH until the gallery closed nine years ago. At that moment, Georgeana decided to go into the gallery business and help artists.
Georgeana opened Ethos Contemporary Art Gallery at 3405 Newport Blvd. in Newport Beach. She is now a leader in marketing and selling fine art. When COVID came, Georgeana went digital, and then became global. She inspires all artists to embrace the Internet.
If you support creativity and spiritual inspiration, Georgeana also shows my artwork at St. James Episcopal Church at 3209 Via Lido in Newport Beach.
You can see my work here: https:// ethosartsinc.com/collections/claraberta
Thank you for a warm welcome Newport Beach. I am home.
Hugs, Clara Berta
Now Being Accepted
for Annual Art in the Park
By NB Indy Staff
The Newport Beach Arts Foundation has announced that applications are open for artists and artisans to apply for the 2024 Art in the Park to be held on Saturday, September 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Newport Beach Civic Center on the Green.
The 19th annual Art in the Park will feature more than 100 Southern California artists displaying and selling their work in all media including painting, ceramics, photography,
textiles, jewelry, glass, sculpture, wood and more.
Proceeds from Art in the Park provide support for school tours, acquisition of significant works of art for the City of Newport Beach and for the City’s arts and cultural programming. For more information or to apply to participate in the 2024 Art in the Park, email: info@newportbeachartsfoundation.org or visit https://www.newportbeachartsfoundation.org.
Artist Clara Berta in her studio
STEPPING OUT
‘Holmes and Watson’ at Laguna Playhouse is Awash in Enjoyable Red Herrings
By Christopher Trela | NB Indy
Were the peerless detective Sherlock Holmes to meet his demise, who would plumb the mystery and catch the killer?
That’s the tantalizing premise posited by Jeffrey Hatcher in his 2018 play “Holmes and Watson.” In Laguna Playhouse’s production, director David Ellenstein and company sink their theatrical chops into this fastmoving, tantalizing mystery, taking us along for the ride and often leaving us breathless.
It’s 1894, and Dr. John Watson (Richard Baird) explains to us that it has been three years since he and Holmes were lured to Reichenbach Falls in Switzerland by the sleuth’s arch-nemesis, Professor Moriarty, where Watson saw Holmes plunge to his death.
Since then, though, Watson has heard of countless “false sightings” of Holmes, setting him on a task, he tells us, “To dispute the claims of these impersonators.”
The trail has led Watson to a secluded island now being run as an insane asylum by Dr. Evans (Nicholas Mongiardo-Cooper). Cut off from the mainland by a raging storm, Watson stays overnight, meeting and interviewing the only three patients, each of whom insists he’s Holmes.
Among the most intriguing aspects of “Holmes and Watson” is that as it takes us deeper and deeper into the quagmire surrounding what became of Watson’s lifelong friend, and plunges Watson into the role of lead detective as he reflects on and draws from his many years alongside Holmes.
The play also shows Watson as a scientist, experimenting with each of the three Holmeses at hand in his efforts to arrive at the truth.
“Holmes and Watson” is a tight, taut, compelling piece of stagecraft. We’re almost immediately drawn into its multiple mysteries, starting
‘HOLMES AND WATSON’ Page 9
• 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
Richard Baird, Mike Peebler and Nicholas Mongiardo-Cooper star in the Laguna Playhouse production of “Hoilmes & Watson.”
Balboa Peninsula Trolley Resumes Operations Through Labor Day Weekend
By NB Indy Staff
The Balboa Peninsula Trolley has resumed operations, with free service continuing throughout the summer on weekends and holidays.
The trolley service will be available from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as July 3, Independence Day (July 4), and Labor Day (September 4).
The trolley is a fun and free way to explore the peninsula. There are 22 designated stops along the trolley route. Trolleys are scheduled to arrive in 15-minutes intervals, which may vary slightly depending on traffic conditions. Riders are invited to climb aboard or exit the trolley at any of the stops along the way to and from the Balboa Pier and Fun Zone area.
For those planning a day at the beach, the trolley can accommodate bicycles, surfboards under six feet long, and beach gear. Trolley riders traveling from outside the area can utilize free parking at the City’s Avon Street municipal parking lot located near the Tustin Avenue and Avon Street intersection within Mariners’ Mile along Coast Highway.
This service is provided by the City of Newport Beach and funded through grants from the Orange County Transportation Authority (Measure M2 funds).
For more information visit newportbeachca.gov/trolley.
LOCAL FOCUS
Sherman Library & Gardens Evening Lecture on June 11: The Glory Days of Corona del Mar
By NB Indy Staff
Corona del Mar was once California’s premier surfing spot, holding the sport’s first Pacific Coast competition in 1928.
Attempts to tame Corona del Mar and to make the Newport Beach harbor mouth safe for watercraft drastically altered board riding, destroying the great wave-making machine and creating the surf giant of today known as the “Wedge.”
Paul Burnett, co-author of “Surfing Newport Beach: The Glory Days of Corona del Mar” will talk about Newport before World War II, share details about the Great Rescue of 1925 by Duke Kahanamoku and others, the rum runners of Balboa, and the evolution of Newport Bay.
In their book, Paul and his wife and coauthor Claudine Burnett have delved deeply into the past, sharing stories that will give readers never-before-revealed facts not only about surfing but Newport Beach and Corona del Mar history as well.
A book signing will follow Paul’s lecture with proceeds from sales benefiting Sherman Library.
Members are $10, Non-Members $20. Seating is limited. Register at thesherman.org or call (949) 673-2261.
Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce Presents Good Morning Corona del Mar June 13
By NB Indy Staff
Join the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce, along with community friends and neighbors, for a very informative monthly discussion group on hot topics in the community pertinent to both business and residential interests.
“Good Morning CdM” is a great way to gain valuable information from featured speakers and meet your local legislative and city representatives. Coffee and pastry served. Open to the community, bring a
friend or colleague. Meets on the second Thursday of each month.
On Thursday, June 13, the featured speaker is Scott LeFleur, Executive Director of Sherman Library & Gardens. His topic is Secrets of the Gardens Unveiled.
Sherman Library & Gardens provides a doorway into the original beauty and natural history of the community. The landmark gardens are looking to the future and are excited to share plans for Sherman Library & Gardens to become the
world class cultural hub that Newport Beach deserves.
The meeting is from 8 to 9:30 a.m. and includes updates from local legislative offices, and is hosted at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club, 1601 Bayside Dr., Corona del Mar. The event is free, no RSVP required. Free parking in the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club lot. Coffee and pastry will be served.
Visit CdmChamber.com for more information.
Scott LeFleur, Executive Director of Sherman Library & Gardens
Balboa Trolley.
Photo by Chris Trela
Cover of Paul Burnett’s book, “Surfing Newport Beach: The Glory Days of Corona del Mar.”
Farmers & Merchants Bank
The home of strong liquidity, white-glove service, and a commitment to community.
F&M Bank has been California’s Strongest, since 1907. That’s not changing, even in today’s economy. Some banks merge, change names, close locations, or reduce hours. At F&M Bank, we’ve been opening new branches and continuing investment in technology and infrastructure to better serve our clients.
Service is paramount at F&M Bank. While some banks will have you transact with a roboteller, or make an appointment, we have real bankers in our branches ready to greet you by name and offer you a fresh cup
of coffee. Stop by to meet our staff at a local branch near you.
F&M Bank is known locally as California’s Strongest. We have strong liquidity, strong capital ratios, a strong loan portfolio, and a stable and diversified client base. In 117 years F&M Bank has never placed profitability above client safety. We offer a wide variety of personal and business banking products and services such as checking and savings, CDs and IRAs, home loans, and youth accounts. F&M Bank also has a robust online and mobile banking
application, including Treasury Management Services for businesses, to enhance client convenience and efficiency.
F&M Bank operates under the core principles of honesty, integrity, the home, the Church, and Service Above Self. Our employees take great pride in the communities we serve and it’s been that way for more than a century. In addition to volunteering our free time, we provided more than $4 million in community support in 2023 to charities, non-profit organizations, and religious entities.
If you are looking for a relationship bank, F&M Bank would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business. Stop by one of our offices located in Corona del Mar or Newport Beach to make this the last time you switch banks. Visit FMB.com/Locations.
www.FMB.com
NMLS# 537388
Some account features and benefits may be subject to separate application, agreement, fees, and/or approval. Terms, Conditions and Limitations may apply. Account features and benefits are subject to change with or without notice. All loans subject to credit approval.
Thousands Attend Annual Balboa Island Parade June 2
By NB Indy Staff
Several thousand spectators lined the streets of Marine Avenue on Balboa Island Sunday, June 2 to watch the annual Balboa Island Parade.
This year’s theme was “Balboa Island in Paradise – A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett.”
As in past years, the parade was filled with children on bikes, island dogs, decorated golf carts and floats, horses, decorated cars, Keystone Cops, drill teams (including the famous Patio Chair Drill Team), the USC Marching Band and Cheer, school bands, local dignitaries including Newport Beach Mayor Will O’Neill, and other fun parade entrants.
The parade began on the Balboa Island Bridge and continued down Marine Avenue. The After-Party in front of the fire station started post parade and featured Mark Wood and the Parrot Head Band.
The parade was sponsored by the Balboa Island Improvement Association. Awards for parade participants will be presented at the All-Island “Pancake Breakfast” at the Beek Center on Saturday, June 22.
NB Indy photographer Lawrence Sherwin was at the parade to capture all the excitement.
Newport Beach Mayor Will O’Neill and family.
Balboa Island Parade Banner.
American Legion Post 291 Color Guard.
Golden Retrievers.
Patio Chair Drill Team.
PHOTOS BY LAWRENCE
and Watson’
with the question of “who is the ‘real’ Holmes?”
Hatcher, best known for the play “Scotland Road” and stage adaptations of “Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde,” “The Alchemist” and “Dial M for Murder,” gives Watson, and us, plenty of raw material on which to cogitate.
Holmes 1 (Matthew Floyd Miller) at first strikes us as most likely to be Holmes, what with his pointed observations of Watson and his shrewd deductions of the situation at hand.
Bound in a straitjacket, the first words uttered by Holmes 2 (Matt Koenig) are “This man isn’t Watson,” while the silent, motionless Holmes 3 (Christopher M. Williams) startles us all as Dr. Evans informs Watson the patient is deaf.
Flashbacks play a key role in Hatcher’s carefully plotted story – not just Watson’s accounts of his and Holmes’s experiences at the falls, but Dr. Evans and others dredging up their recollections of key events.
The script abounds in delightful proclamations akin to what we’d find in the works of Conan-Doyle, as when one character asserts “We are dealing with vicious and resourceful felons.” When one of the true culprits is revealed – and sorry, but we can’t say who without spoiling the show – the actor’s voice fairly drips with gleeful self-satisfaction.
You’re to be forgiven if you take much of this review with a grain of salt, because that’s good advice for anyone watching this staging. It almost goes without saying that Hatcher generates countless red herrings.
One such possibly misleading lead, for example, is when Inspector Patterson is shot to death, uttering two words: “Sherlock…Holmes.” We’re told this means one of the three Holmeses is his killer, though we later learn otherwise.
The play itself and Laguna’s production of it succeed in drawing us into its hermetic world. The incisively written script is studded with sparkling dialogue, witty turns of phrase and laugh-inducing one-liners, and the wry tone Hatcher generates is reflected by the tongue-in-cheek ambiance of Ellenstein’s staging.
In terms of its many twists and turns, this devilishly clever script is skillfully performed at Laguna Playhouse. Baird’s Watson isn’t just starchily, stiffly proper, but the calm, patient soul of equanimity. With his crisp mannerisms and spot-on British dialect, Baird is ideal.
Miller’s Holmes 1 projects authority and self-confidence. Koenig’s Holmes 2 is emotionally erratic and easily rattled (as scripted).
Williams’s Holmes 3 is at first so stock still he’s nearly catatonic. When we later learn the reasoning behind this is fiction, the actor’s delivery and articulate manner reveal Holmes 3’s sharp mind.
Mongiardo-Cooper paints a polished, erudite Dr. Evans, ever skeptical of Watson’s insights into who Holmes was – and who he is now if he has, in fact, survived death.
Mike Peebler’s vocal delivery delineates two dissimilar characters: He’s all snide, sharp edges as the crafty, treacherous Moriarty and uses a tangy Scottish brogue for the dogged, insistent policeman, Inspector Patterson. Peebler also plays the almost non-descript orderly. Overlook the character at your own risk.
As a matter of fact, it’s safe to say that none of the characters we meet are who or what we believe them to be.
Like several cast members, Alice Sherman handles multiple roles –the asylum’s coldly efficient Matron and a mystery character known only as “The Woman” whose identity is tightly bound up in the numerous mysteries eventually unraveled.
Ideally suiting the nature of the story is Stephen Gifford’s scenic design of the cavernous asylum and its stone walls, steel-gray coloring and mood of gloom and foreboding.
For the flashbacks to Holmes’s fateful meeting with Moriarty, Ellenstein darkens the stage and lights the upstage high window, where water showers down outside and mist seeps in below it.
Kate Bergh’s monochromatic costumes suit the setting and the dark mood of Hatcher’s script, and the combined work of Jared A. Sayeg’s lighting and Ian Scot’s sound and pro-
jections complete the effect of a late 19th-century hell on earth where the truth is likely to be strangled before it can emerge.
With so many clues so carefully created, then planted to confuse us, “Holmes and Watson” also generates, along with the suspense, tons of theatergoing fun.
Moulton Theatre, Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Drive, Laguna Beach. Through June 16. Running time: 1 hour, 20 minutes (no intermission). Tickets: $45 to $84. Ticket purchase/information: 949497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.org
Nicholas Mongiardo-Cooper, Mike Peebler, Matt Koenig and Richard Baird star in the Laguna Playhouse production of “Holmes & Watson.”
43rd Annual Corona del Mar Scenic 5k Results
By NB Indy Staff
The 42nd Annual CdM Scenic 5K was held on Saturday, June 1. More than 10,000 people from around Southern California and the United States participated in the walk/run, including many dogs and even a parrot.
Taking first place in the Men’s 5K was Max Douglass of Newport Beach with a total time of 15:57.
First place in the Women’s 5K was Shannon Zanotelli of Ft. Collins, Colorado with a total time of 20:07.
Newport Indy photographer Jim Collins was there to capture the action.
CLASSIFIED SECTION
EMPLOYMENT
Employer: Boldyn Networks US Operations LLC. Title: DAS Operations Engineer. Job Location: Orange County, California. Job Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Information Technology, or related and 24 months in Engineer occupation. Description: Perform and manage third party vendors and contractors for maintenance activities and site inspections. Trouble-shoot Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) network alarms and issues to resolution (remote and on-site) includes replacing faulty equipment. Ensure all preventive maintenance are performed: heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), Fire Suppression System, Outdoor remote fan clean, DAS software upgrade. Support deployment new DAS installation and perform acceptance inspection prior to on-air. Responsible for DAS equipment inventory and spares for all DAS systems. Establish, document, and maintain DAS operations standards and practices. Establish and adhere to Service Level Agreements with wireless operators. Guide and train new NOC (Network Operations Center) and Tier 1 engineers/Technicians. Please send resumes to tanyn.boulay@boldyn.com. Salary: $104,797.92
NBPD Warns Residents of Fake Police Caller
By NB Indy Staff
The Newport Beach Police Department was notified by some community members that they received calls from an individual claiming to be a Lieutenant with the Newport Beach Police Department.
The caller claimed they had outstanding citations and asked for payment over the phone. Residents who contacted the NBPD directly were able to confirm that these calls did not come from the police department.
The Newport Beach Police Department will not contact you to request money and does not accept any kind of payment for legitimate services
over the phone. Any payments for legitimate services are handled by the NBPD Front Desk who can be reached at (949) 644-3681.
The NBPD says when you get a call from an unknown number, ask yourself, is the caller who you think it is? Scammers are good at pretending to be someone they’re not. They can be convincing: sometimes manipulating Caller ID, using information from social media, or hacking into email accounts, to make it seem more real. They’ll pressure you or play on your emotions to get personal information or money from you.
Clockwise: Runners at the start of the Women’s 5K.; Race participants included children and even a parrot.; Runners at the start of the Men’s 5K. Photo by Jim Collins
City Manager
PAGE 1
aerial drones would be used to monitor and investigate crime incidents.
Public safety is a top priority in Newport Beach, and these investments will help our Police Department further reduce crime and bring more criminals to justice. I look forward to updating our community as these strategies are developed further and implemented over the next several months.
City Celebrates Grand Opening of Newport Coast Pickleball Courts
A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, May 20 marked the grand opening of the Newport Coast pickleball courts, located adjacent to the Newport Coast Community Center at 6401 San Joaquin Hills Rd.
Dozens of eager pickleball players in attendance were the first to use the new courts, and an inaugural match was held between Mayor Will O’Neill, Mayor Pro-Tem Joe Stapleton, and Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commissioners David Granoff and Heather Ignatin.
The complex features six public courts, open every day from 7 a.m. until dusk.
The project was a partnership between the City and the Newport Ridge Community Association.
Newport Coast Pickleball League Play Kicks Off
On Tuesday, eight teams kicked off the Newport Coast pickleball court’s intermediate women’s pickleball league play. League play provides teams of two to four players with 70 minutes to compete against one another in a 10week season, including playoffs. The inaugural summer season also includes intermediate men’s and intermediate co-ed play. For more information on fall league dates and registration, please contact pickleball@newportbeachca. gov or visit www.newportbeachca.gov/ sports.
Ride the Free Balboa Trolley Until September 2
The Balboa Peninsula Trolley resumed operations with free service continuing throughout the summer on weekends and holidays.
The trolley service will be available from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays as well as on July 3, Independence Day (July 4), and Labor Day (September 4). The trolley is a fun and free way to explore the Balboa Peninsula.
There are 22 designated stops along the trolley route. Trolleys are scheduled to arrive in 15-minutes intervals, which may vary slightly depending on traffic conditions. Riders are invited to climb aboard or exit the trolley at any of the stops along the way to and from the Balboa Pier and Fun Zone area.
For those planning a day at the beach, the trolley can accommodate bicycles, surfboards under six feet long, and beach gear. Trolley riders traveling
from outside the area can utilize free parking at the City’s Avon Street municipal parking lot, located near the intersection of Tustin Avenue and Avon Street.
This service is provided by the City of Newport Beach and funded through grants from the Orange County Transportation Authority (Measure M2 funds). For more information visit www.newportbeachca.gov/trolley.
Registration for Summer Classes Now Open
Get ready for an exciting summer! Registration for the City’s summer classes is now open. See the latest Newport Navigator at www. newportbeachca.gov/register for information on summer classes for all ages and interests, as well as community events such as Movies in the Park and July 4 is for Families.
Orange, 58th Street Restrooms Reopen for Public Use
Two refurbished public restrooms in West Newport Park have reopened. The restrooms are at Orange Street, 5800 Seashore Dr., and 58th Street, 6804 Seashore Dr.
The recent construction upgrades included a new roofing system to protect the buildings from rain, new plumbing fixtures, new automatic locking gates, paint, louvers, new tile and new LED light fixtures. These improvements will better protect the building from the harsh marine environment and provide better safety and service to the public.
Be Well Mobile Crisis Response Team
The Be Well mobile crisis response team operates in Newport Beach 12 hours a day, seven 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:
• Reunified a person with their family.
• Transported a person to the Be Well sobering station.
• Transported a person to a medical appointment.
• Transported a person to a bus stop to return home.
• Collaborated with the Newport Beach Fire Department to treat a person fleeing domestic violence.
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 two people at the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter.
• Enrolled three people into services.
• Continued to shelter people. 26 people who had been experiencing homelessness in Newport Beach are sheltered in the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter.
7/14 THE CREAM OF CLAPTON BAND feat. Will Johns & Noah East
7/19 THE 5TH DIMENSION
7/20 Y&T
7/25 THE RAT PACK
7/26 KEN GARCIA 7/27 BOB SCHNEIDER 7/28 BOBBY GRAY 8/1 CASH’D OUT (J
8/2 Beach Boy AL JARDINE
CUBENSIS
8/4 u kulele s Tar : TAIMANE & Her Trio
8/9 BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY 8/10 THE BUSBOYS 8/11 THE JAMES KELLY BAND
8/17 PIANO MEN: GENERATIONS 8/23 SUPER DIAMOND 8/24 SUPER DIAMOND 8/27 TAB BENOIT & ANDERS OSBORNE with Special Guest JD SIMO 8/29 THE PETTY BREAKERS 8/30 GLENN HUGHES - Deep Purple Set
8/31 MICK ADAMS & THE STONES 9/1 MIDGE URE 9/7 SOUTHERN ROCK THROWDOWN ( l ynyrd s kynyrd , B ad C o ., ZZ T o P T ri B u T es ) 9/12 GRAHAM BONNET P erforming r ain B ow , msg & a l C aT ra ZZ
9/13 RICHIE KOTZEN with Mark Daly 9/14 JOURNEY USA (J ourney T ri B u T e ) 9/15 BENISE: Fiesta! 9/19 THE MAN IN BLACK (J ohnny C ash T ri B u T e ) 9/22 JANE MONHEIT 9/25 ANA POPOVIC 9/27 DAVE MASON 10/3 ZEBRA 10/4 MIRAGE ( f lee T wood m a C T ri
)
10/5 KIMBERLY PERRY (of The Band Perry) 10/6 DAVE HAUSE 10/10 HENRY KAPONO 10/11 HENRY KAPONO 10/16 JIMMIE VAUGHAN 10/18 GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP
10/20 THE YOUNG DUBLINERS 10/31 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS UNTOUCHABLES
11/1 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS UNTOUCHABLES
11/2 VENICE
11/3 THE WINEHOUSE EXPERIENCE ( a my w inehouse T ri B u T e ) 11/8 COMMON SENSE
11/9 TYRONE WELLS
11/13 JOHN HIATT
11/15 RONSTADT REVIVAL
11/16 JOSHUA RADIN & RON POPE
11/22 SPACE ODDITY ( d avid B owie T ri B u T e )
11/23 RUFUS WAINWRIGHT 11/26 LEONID & FRIENDS (C hi C ago T ri B u T e )
11/27 BEATLES VS STONES
11/29 THE PLATTERS
11/30 LEE ROCKER of the Stray Cats
12/4 LIVINGSTON TAYLOR and LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III
12/15 THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA
12/29 L.A. GUNS 1/24 GENE LOVES JEZEBEL / BOW WOW WOW 2/16 INCENDIO w / a rdeshir f arah ( of s T run Z & f arah )
