My daughter, now 37 and a mom with a husband and two kids, sent my wife a text thanking her (presumably she and I) for letting her grow up on the beach of Balboa Bay Club. She recounted summer days playing in the sand, running into the bay and sitting in the shallow water with her pink plastic bucket and matching shovel digging the wet sand, filling the bucket, pouring it out, and starting over and over again.
“Your grandson spent the entire day sitting in the bay doing exactly what I did thirty years ago,” she texted, continuing, “Thank you for providing such a wonderful childhood experience. Watching it repeat in this next generation is a blessing.”
So, it seems while everything changes, some precious things remain. The message is clear. Embrace “The Bubble” of the good life that is the August summer in Newport. The spectacular velvet greens beckon golfers at Newport Beach Country Club. Fun in the sun on the Balboa Bay Club sand, a chair and blue and white striped umbrella makes for the perfect day on the bayfront.
Consider welcoming family and friends from faraway places to unite for a summer holiday and reunion at the Balboa Bay Resort. Cabanas and a cocktail poolside will make memories.
August in Newport Beach, there is nothing better. Take it all in; concerts on the sand and shore, golf tournaments, tennis and pickleball, camp for the kids, dining al fresco, bbqs, burger bashes, luaus and so much more.
The clubs are at your service. Take nothing for granted. Membership is a privilege, dive in and make the most of the good fortune afforded. Please remember my daughter’s text; make a lasting memory of such blessings right in front of us. We live in paradise.
August best, see you by the pool!
Respectfully,
Bruce Editor
Opening Doors
44 Women of Orangewood raised $413,000 at 19th annual Scholarship Luncheon held at Balboa Bay Resort. Co-chaired by non-profit founder Susan Samueli along with Judy Nichols, major scholarship support for foster youth seeking higher education came from many donors including Shirley Pepys, Renee Pepys Lowe and Dan Houch matching contributors up to $75,000. Luncheon highlight featured speaker Jon Dorenbos, former NFL pro player, author and entertainer.
Mari Kurtz and Mary VandeBossche
Kelly Bozza and Carey Clawson
Paul Tobin and Susan Samueli
Chief Development Officer Kendra Puryear and Jon Dorenbos
Connie Dinsmore, Nancy Silver, Yvette McCarthy, and Carol Morris
Co-Chairs, Judy Nicholls and Susan Samueli
Nancy Silver, John Guastaferro, Barb Mccabe, and Yvette McCarthy
Keynote Speaker, Jon Dorenbos Maegan Lujan
Soaring Voices
THE PACIFIC CHORALE CELEBRATES ITS ANNUAL GALA PERFORMANCE AT THE RENEÉ AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL FOLLOWED BY A GRAND DINNER CELEBRATION
THEMED “A NIGHT IN SALZBURG”
(L-R) Michael and Lynn Istad, Pacific Chorale Artistic Director Robert Istad, and David Navarro
Pacific Chorale Platinum Season Sponsors Phil and Mary Lyons
Gala Chair Susan Lindley and Chris Lindley
Pacific Chorale Artistic Director Robert Istad conducts Pacific Chorale’s season finale with the Pacific Symphony on May 20 at the Reneé and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall; the concert preceded Pacific Chorale’s annual gala, “A Night in Salzburg.”
(L-R) Pacific Chorale Silver Season Sponsors Charlie and Ling Zhang with Ginger and Arthur Ong
Soloists featured in Pacific Chorale’s season finale prior to the gala: (L-R) I-Chin Betty Feinblatt, mezzo-soprano; Nicholas Preston, tenor; Aundi Marie Moore, soprano; Michael Sumuel, bass-baritone
Kirsten Springer and Pacific Chorale Board Chair Craig Springer
Pacific Chorale President & CEO Andrew Brown and Karen Hogel Brown
A Leg Up
Angelitos de Oro, an auxiliary of Big Brothers/ Big Sisters of Orange County launched its annual campaign to raise funds through “The Angelitos Card” with South Coast Plaza. A pre-event champagne reception unfolded at South Coast Plaza led by event co-chairs Natalie Pickup and Susan Merell to announce the shopping week set for September 21-27. A 20% savings is offered at more than 100 participating stores and restaurants. The Angelitos Card sells for $60, with all proceeds funding programs with Big Brothers/ Big Sisters. Go to www.angelitosdeoro.org to purchase the card.
Gabby Rosales, Lisa Gomez (Camilla)
Chanel (the Webster), Stephanie Haffner (Monique Lhuillier)
The crowd
Diane Hoover, Annie Chang (with MikiMoto)
Natalie Pickup and Susan Merrell (card/event co-chairs), Stephanie Rogers (SCP)
Eunice Lee (Thom Browne), Nanette Mayo (ADO member)
Patti Estabrook (ADO pres), Michael Mantyla (SCP), Nicole Debenitez (Tez), Sarah Odonez, Tessa Azar (SCP)
Living in Newport Heights since 2009 and in Newport Beach since I was 15 years old, I believe we have one of the best places in California to live in; friendly neighbors, walkability to great restaurants and some of the best parks. There are so many ways I enjoy giving back to our community through volunteering my time. I have also loved being a part of the Balboa Bay Club since becoming a member in 2007. If I have not met you yet, I hope to meet you soon.
Cheers – Annie
2023 CLOSED SALES
• 724 Euclid Street, Santa Monica
• 992 Carnation Ave, Costa Mesa
• 412 St. Andrews, Newport Beach
• 385 La Canada Way, Costa Mesa*
• 262 Kern Ave, Big Bear*
• 1147 Granville, Newport Beach
• 4682 Warner Ave A211, Huntington Beach
• 1317 Campus Ave, Redlands*
• 22232 Destello, Mission Viejo
• 27885 Espinoza, Mission Viejo
• 309 Anderson Ln, Costa Mesa*
• 2435 Ridgeway Rd., San Marino
• 2122 Watermarke Place, Irvine
• 15 Cape Andover, Newport Beach
• 11 Mainsail Dr, Corona Del Mar
• 24732 Via San Anselmo, Mission Viejo
• 158 N Maplewood, Orange
• 3904 Channel Pl, Newport Beach
• 336 Snug Harbor, Newport Beach*
• 713 Poinsettia, Corona Del Mar*
• 514 N Hart, Orange*
• 620 Gary Pl, Newport Beach
• 393 Latitude, Costa Mesa
• 1327 Corte Alemano, Costa Mesa*
• 442 Fullerton, Newport Beach*
• 2067 Sea Cove Lane, Costa Mesa*
• 62 Seaborough, Newport Beach*
• 26360 Paseo Lluvia, San Juan Capistrano*
• 59 Longchamp, Irvine*
• 21392 Cozy Glen Road, Rancho Santa Margarita*
• 5 Jackson Court, Coto de Caza
• 93 Overbook, Irvine*
• 1770 W Chateau Ave, Anaheim*
• 24541 Sun Valley, Laguna Beach
• 20304 Estuary Lane, Newport Beach*
• 123 Sapphire, Newport Beach*
• 64 Brassie Lane, Coto de Caza
• 512.5 Jasmine Ave, Corona Del Mar
• 59 Concepcion, Ladera Ranch
• 4612 Seashore, Newport Beach
CURRENT LISTINGS & ESCROWS
• 3121 W. Coast Hwy 8D, Newport Beach**
• 111 Via Mentone, Newport Beach
• 361 Newport Glen, Newport Beach
• 303 Alva Lane, Costa Mesa**
• 706 Arden Road, Pasadena
• 4 Black Walnut, Coto De Caza
• 15 Curl Dr, Corona Del Mar**
• 12611 Stillman, Lakewood**
• 25 Sea Island, Newport Beach
• 11 Cape Danbury, Newport Beach
*AC Team represented Buyer
**AC Team representing Tenant
Last But Definitely Not Least
The 48th annual Irrelevant Week unfolded in Newport Beach hosting and roasting football player Desjuan Johnson, the last pick of the 2023 NFL draft. Johnson will go to the San Francisco 49ers to compete for a spot on the roster. Irrelevant Week was founded by the late Balboa Bay Club Governor and former football player Paul Salata, and the tradition continues in the hands of daughter Melanie Salata Fitch. The week of festivities culminated in a grand dinner at the Cannery Restaurant underwritten by Balboa Bay Club member Ron Salisbury.
Tim Mead and John Ireland
Arrival
Vince Ferragamo, Desjuan Johnson
John Ireland,Mayor Noah Blom, Desjuan Johnson
Jeff Boyles and son Braeden with Desjuan Johnson
Nancy Johnson, Melanie Fitch, Dan the Ram
Desjuan Johnson, Ron Salisbury, Melanie Fitch, Tim Mead
Paul McDonald Family
The Literacy Project Honored
FOUNDED BY SUE GRANT IN 2009, THE LITERACY PROJECT IN NEWPORT BEACH WAS HONORED BY THE WORLD LITERACY FOUNDATION AT THEIR 2023 WORLD LITERACY SUMMIT AT OXFORD UNIVERSITY IN LONDON.
Ed Arnold, Bobbi Grich, Clyde Wright, Rod Carew, Chuck Finley
Sue Grant, Wienerschnitzel Chairman Cindy Culpepper
Palm Lane El Graduation
World Literacy Summit
Sue & Gary Grant
Viejo El Graduation
Silver Summit El Graduation
Dr. Anthony Cree - World Literacy Council Chairman with Sue Grant
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The Spirit Of Aloha
Human Options, an Orange County based non-profit dedicated to ending the cycle of relationship violence, held its annual “Serious Fun” Gala at Balboa Bay Resort with a charming Aloha theme. Nearly half a million dollars was raised supporting legal advocacy, therapy, counseling, elder abuse prevention, emergency shelters and transitional housing for those suffering from domestic abuse.
Maricela Rios-Faust, Diane Biagianti, Andrew Gray
Mani Moore, Celina Doka, Laurie Peterson Lokelanis Rhythms of the Island
Kristi Pearson, Angela Ahmad, Nikole Kingston
Steve DiBernardo, Mani Moore, Celina Doka, Dominic Petrucci, Laurie & Dan Peterson
Wendy Peterson & Nikole Kingston
Greg Danielson, Steve & Cinda Churm, Kamie Kirschner, Amy Corcoran
Michael Chandler, Scharrell Jackson, Kate and Tim Duchene, Doug & Raylene Groves
September 24, 2023 | 5 pm - 9 pm
Festival of Arts Pageant of the Masters
Laguna Beach Join us for Chef Masters ‘23 in lovely Laguna Canyon where the best chefs, wineries, and restaurants will come together to benefit Unconditional Rescue
Photo Credit: Sarah DeRemer
A Summer Luncheon
THE WOMEN OF CHAPMAN GATHERED FOR A 51ST YEAR EVENT AT BALBOA BAY RESORT RAISING FUNDS FOR SPECIAL PROJECTS AT CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY. SIGNIFICANT $1 MILLION PLEDGES WERE MADE SUPPORTING WOMEN’S HEALTH SERVICES, STUDENT HARDSHIP FUNDING AND MORE.
Board members Donna Hood, Donna Bunce and Sue Hook
Benefit Chair Elect Lisa Hallaian, new member Dana Kanne, Michelle Kirkwood
Members Tammi Cluck and Georgeana Ireland with Benefit Chair Elect Kristi Jacob
President Daniele Struppa with board members Barbara Eidson and Janet Curci with Mary Roosevelt
Event Co-Chr Kiki Rhynerson presenting flowers to President Sheri Nazaroff
WOC President Sheri Nazaroff with Membership Chair Jacqui Penner
Event Co-Chairs Kiki Rhynerson, left, and Donna Bunce, right, recognizing outgoing Membership Tea Co-Chairs Donna Di Bari, center left, and Mona Lee Nesseth
Dr. Cynthia West, Dir of Leatherby Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics, Donna Schroeder, Lindsey Jacobs, Legacy Giving Assoc Dir
Members Carol Lee and Gail Sterns
Champions Rise!
THE NHL STANLEY CUP 2023 GOES TO THE LAS VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS
BY RANDY YOUNGMAN
It is not well-known that the roots of the newest NHL Stanley Cup champion, the Vegas Golden Knights, reach all the way to Orange County.
Before the Golden Knights opened play as an NHL expansion franchise in 2017, billionaire businessman Bill Foley—the lead investor, chairman and CEO of the ownership group— reached out to longtime friends Todd Pickup and his family about the possibility of joining ownership as a partner and minority investor.
Todd and his father, Dick, had already invested in many of Foley’s public companies, so it wasn’t surprising when Foley invited the Pickup and Martin families (owners of Newport Beach Country Club and Balboa Bay Resort & Club) to join the Vegas ownership consortium as early investors.
“I’m a huge hockey fan and a huge Bill Foley fan, so I loved the idea the minute I heard it!” said Todd Pickup. “The hard part was selling hockey in the desert to Kevin and my sister, Devon.”
The rest is, literally, history.
In their inaugural season, the Vegas Golden Knights defied the odds and the Las Vegas oddsmakers who had installed the Knights as 250-1 Stanley Cup underdogs by winning the Western Conference to advance all the way to the Stanley Cup Final in 2018. Their 13 playoff victories during that Stanley Cup run was an NHL record for an expansion franchise in its first year. Proving it wasn’t a fluke, the Knights made the playoffs in their first four seasons and then
Kevin Martin, Dick Pickup, Todd Pickup with the Stanley Cup
this past season, in Year 6 of Foley’s 6-year plan, they won it all, skating off with Lord Stanley’s coveted silver chalice by defeating the Florida Panthers in five games.
Previously, there had been only six NHL franchises that had won their first Stanley Cup in six seasons or less—and only one since 1929: the 1984 Edmonton Oilers led by superstar Wayne Gretzky.
Call it the Golden Knights’ (and Foley’s) Midas touch. Everything Golden turns to gold. Stanley Cup champions in six years—just as Foley had boldly predicted years before.
On Nov. 22, 2016, nearly a year before the first puck was dropped in their inaugural season, this is what Foley had said publicly:
“Playoffs in 3, the Cup in 6.”
Was it clairvoyance or merely a subliminal message intended to motivate the first players to lace up their skates and pull on their sweaters for the Golden Knights? It’s anybody’s guess. But Foley has made other bold statements about the franchise. A sampling:
** “My goal is to be a dynasty here. To win a Stanley Cup. Multiple Stanley Cups over several years.”
** “We want to be a global franchise. The visitors to Las Vegas can’t get a ticket because we’re sold out, but they’re going to buy gear. They’re going to be back in Shanghai wearing a Golden Knights hat.”
** “People from Las Vegas wanted something more than The Strip. They wanted something that was theirs. So, we tapped into that.”
What is undeniable is that Las Vegas was not a major league sports city until Foley ponied up a $500 million expansion fee and his ownership group got involved.
The Golden Knights, who play their home games in T-Mobile Arena, became the city’s first professional sports franchise, and soon thereafter came the NFL’s Raiders (relocated from Oakland) to play in 80,000-seat Allegiant Stadium, not far from T-Mobile. And now there are continuing reports and that Major League Baseball’s Oakland A’s might be coming to Vegas, too.
That would make Las Vegas a Triple Crown franchise city, joining the likes of Los Angeles, Chicago, New York.
Take a bow, Bill Foley.
What’s next for Vegas Golden Knights and Foley’s Midas touch?
Speaking to the media on the ice at T-Mobile after accepting the Stanley Cup in June, Foley was asked if he had any other bold predictions to make.
Smiling broadly, he said, “I’ll give it to you in a couple of months. I’m going to relax and think about my next asinine statement.”
Life Lessons in Sports
WESTCOAST SPORTS ASSOCIATES HONORS TRACK AND FIELD STAR AND FIVE-TIME U.S. OLYMPIAN ALLYSON FELIX
BY MATT MORRISON
When four pals sat down for breakfast almost 30 years ago, none could quite conceive of the legacy they would ultimately establish. Two UCLA grads, two from USC, family men all in their 30s and doing well in their careers. It was time to start giving back.
Mike Gottleib, Chip Eggers, Alan Lynch and Mike Rosenberg were talking sports, as usual. All looked back on how their experiences in organized athletics positively shaped the men they had grown to be. Knowing there were many children in underserved communities throughout Southern California without the resources to participate in team sports, they establish a small charity dedicated to the simple goal of Making Youth Sports Possible.
A nearly all-volunteer organization, Westcoast Sports Associates is now in its 28th year of operation serving tens of thousands of children through dozens of community youth programs every year in Los Angeles and Orange County. Through membership dues, socials, a golf tournament and its Charity Gala event, WSA annually raises enough to impact some 28 youth sports programs. The funds are distributed in grants toward entry fees, uniforms, equipment and trophies to county
Rec Centers and other select youth sports programs in need of help.
The reward is in the simple satisfaction of seeing the smiles of so many children participating in the programs WSA supports, knowing the positive impact sports can have on young lives and in their communities.
One of the most productive relationships WSA established outside of the founding four was in 1996, its first year of operation. The organization honored venerable ESPN host Roy Firestone with its first Community Service Award for his body of charitable work. Firestone appreciated WSA’s simple commitment to Making Youth Sports Possible so much that he added the cause to his philanthropic agenda. He’s served as Honorary Chair ever since.
With Firestone’s connections in the sports world, WSA’s annual dinner gala – its biggest fundraiser of the year – has attracted a parade of the greatest names in sports history to accept what is now the WSA Roy Firestone Award. The program features an hour-long Up Close style interview conducted by Firestone with the guest of honor. NFL great Jim Brown was the first RFA winner. John Wooden was next, with Wayne Gretzky, Jack Nicklaus, Vin Scully among those that followed. The list of honorees
is as prestigious as it is extensive.
Now add track & field great Allyson Felix to the honor roll. The five-time USA Olympian retired last year as the most decorated athlete – man or woman – in World Track & Field history. Over her 18 year career, Felix was on the podium for 32 total medals - gold, silver and bronze - in world competition. Running in the 100, 200, and 400 meter disciplines, the sprinter won seven Olympic gold medals, and 15 more in World Championships.
Allyson accepted the 2023 WSA Roy Firestone Award as the first woman honoree on a Sunday night in June. The USC Marching Band rolled through the Beverly Hilton ballroom a couple of times to enthusiastic delight. This was an event colored in cardinal & gold. Though she never competed as a Trojan (already too good as a teen), she did earn her education degree from USC, she also has an honorary doctorate, and now the on-campus track facility is Allyson Felix Field. It’s been a pretty good year.
For all the decorations, Allyson’s athletic achievements won’t define her. A wife and mother of a toddler, she speaks about living a life of purpose. Integrity. Intelligence. Elegance. Excellence. That’s just a start.
A passionate advocate for maternity rights for women athletes, Felix testified before congress in 2019 to spotlight preeclampsia. The life-threatening pregnancy complication disproportionately affects women of color. In a horrible twist of tragic irony, her friend and USA track teammate Torie Bowie died in childbirth earlier this spring.
Felix took on long-time shoe sponsor Nike for policies pertaining to athletes when motherhood enters the equation. She affected change. Sports organizations are recognizing maternal issues in women’s athletics. Now, she’s founded her own shoe company, Saysh, designed by women, for women. Saysh, she explains, is named for gentle waves that restore earth balance.
As an example of an athlete – man or woman – who’s made an impact in the sports world and beyond, WSA could not have done better than honoring Allyson Felix. In this generation or any other.
Plan to join the pages of this very special publication marking a major milestone in the magazine, known as the “oldest and longest running magazine” in Orange County, California.
Established in 1948 with the founding of Balboa Bay Club, the publication has reached readers every month for 75 years reporting on the people, the events, the style and tone of the times, chronicling life at the Balboa Bay Club, Newport Beach Country Club and the Newport community at large.
AFLOAT FOR LIFE
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH MIKE COSTA, OWNER OF SEANET YACHTS
BY MATT MORRISON
Afunny thing happened on the way through the pandemic. The rat race was disrupted. People realized there were more efficient ways to get work done. Folks discovered better ways to spend their time. All of it had an unexpected effect on one of the primary recreational activities in Newport Beach – boating. Like all businesses three years ago at the outset of a general lockdown, the boating industry faced uncertainty. Michael Costa of SeaNet Yachts thought his locally owned business could go under after almost 20 years operating in the Newport Harbor.
“Then it became apparent very quickly that we were a solution for a lot of people,” Costa, a long-time BBC member said. “The solution was a private, safe environment that can be enjoyed with family and friends that gave them an escape.”
Boaters found they had a lot more time to spend on the water and more and more of their friends were exposed to yachting or sailing. Many newcomers wanted in, and the result was an unexpected boost in yacht sales. In Newport Beach, and around the world, boat inventory started selling briskly. People with the means and inclination toward pleasure craft ownership were going for it.
“I think a lot of people found a renewed focus on enjoying life,” Costa explains.
The new cycle of boat ownership was evident when the Newport Beach International Boat Show returned in 2023 after a three-year hiatus. The threeday event at Lido Marina Village in April featured more than 200 vessels, 75 exhibitors with more than 40 builders and brokerages represented.
“It was a lot of fun,” Costa said, adding the event was well-received in the community. “It was good to see a lot of people we hadn’t seen in years, both within the industry and past clients.”
caption
The latest trends in watercraft and marine technology were on display for the experienced and the next generation of boat owners. Since the pandemic hit, the demographics in new boat ownership has skewed younger.
Among the innovations Costa says distinguished newer yacht designs are the expanded aft decks on many models offering a larger recreation area on the back of the boat. The open-back decks often lie just above surface level making the relationship with the water more seamless. Some spaces on certain models are large enough to include a hot tub or swimming pool on board the ship.
SeaNet deals in high-end manufacturers including Absolute, Benetti, Solaris Power, and Van Dutch. Though its stock-in-trade is whole boat sales, the company’s innovative fractional ownership program has gained a foothold. Co-ownership allows yacht enthusiasts that have limited time and little inclination to manage and maintain a boat and its crew. SeaNet has designs to make fractional yacht ownership as popular as the same concept is in the aviation industry.
Growing up in Orange County, and familiar with marinas around the globe, Costa says there’s no better place to own a boat than in Newport Beach.
“It has a great mix,” he explains. “We have this really unique harbor with the open ocean stretched out right in front of us. Yet you can enjoy a full day of boating right here in the harbor without ever going out to sea.” Outside of health care, and on the opposite end of the spectrum, boating might be one of the few industries that actually benefited from the worldwide pandemic. Who would have guessed? A new perspective has helped most people reevaluate how to spend their time. Life is short. Anything can happen. For some, and a growing number of others, the sunset is best seen floating on water from the deck of a ship.
INSIDE THE RARIFIED WORLD OF NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB
Robin Shelton CCM, PGA Master Professional General Manager
Newport Beach Country Club
Dear NBCC Members,
There are so many amazing things about working at a country club.
If I peel back a layer of the proverbial onion…
If I had to pick a favorite aspect, it would be hospitality. I believe that service and hospitality are different. Service is the technical delivery, which should be presented the same to each member. Hospitality is how you make people feel; it’s different and customized for each person. Service is black and white while hospitality is color.
Hospitality is rooted in creating uplifting, positive outcomes to establish personal relationships and memorable experiences. It is about the human connection.
We are fortunate to be able to do this every day. We are at a place where people come happy and leave happier. Very few places in the world can create that outcome.
If I peel a layer of the onion one more time, I would tell you that member-guest tournaments are another one of my favorite things about this industry. We treat our member-guest tournaments like the Super Bowl: There is nothing bigger, nothing more important and nothing of bigger magnitude at Newport Beach Country Club.
The member-guest tournaments are our most popularly attended events. They enhance relationships between two friends or family members and are boosted even more through additional friends on the course over multiple days. These three- or four-day events are like Christmas morning for an adult—or perhaps the equivalent of spring break—as they are something that is looked forward to year after year.
There is something particularly special and unique about a member-guest tournament. It creates and enhances special bonds that are rooted in competition, fellowship, friendship and camaraderie. There is the sharing of food, beverage and party that is not matched anywhere else. I’ve played in tennis tournaments, traveled to baseball stadiums and gone on backpacking/hikes that do not produce the same bond.
At the time of this article, the 2023 men’s member-guest tournament, the Regatta, has been completed and the ladies’ member-guest, the Seahorse, will be taking place soon.
If you have played in a member-guest tournament, I am sure you would agree with me. If you have not played one, I would encourage you to put it on your bucket list for next year, so that you can see all of the layers that make these tournaments so unique.
Whatever the analogy—the Super Bowl, spring break or Christmas morning—these tournaments are extremely special events that showcase the best of hospitality, making people feel amazing.
Robin Shelton
H SUMMER CAMP
H
H
“Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August.” – Jenny Han
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Red, White & Blue
IN CELEBRATION OF AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY, MEMBERS AT NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB CAME TOGETHER FOR CARNIVAL GAMES, TRAIN RIDES, ROCK CLIMBING AND MORE BEFORE THE EVENT CULMINATED IN A FIREWORKS SHOW.
Fireworks show
Fourth of July
Fourth of July
The Pai brothers with a friend
The McGilvary family
The Volas family
The Gerber family
The Holden family
The Salib family
The Horgan family
The Kelly family
Being Vulnerable
NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB MEMBERS BRIAN AND LAUREN MANFRED REVEAL WHEN THEY WERE HAPPIEST, TALENTS THEY WISH THEY HAD AND THE PEOPLE THEY ADMIRE MOST.
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 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 Brian and Lauren Manfred.
BAY WINDOW: When and where were you happiest?
LAUREN MANFRED: That’s an easy one: May 12, 2012 in Tulsa, Oklahoma—the day Brian and I got married. It was the most joyous day of my life, surrounded by all the friends and family we love.
BRIAN MANFRED: May 12, 2012 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Our wedding at Holy Family Cathedral and reception to follow was so awesome. It was the best and happiest day of my life.
BW: Where would you most like to live?
LM: I would love to be an expat just for a year and live in Paris. It’s my absolute favorite city in the world—the architecture, the food, the pace of life. It’d be a dream.
BM: It’s hard to beat living here in Newport Beach, but I’ve always wanted to live in New York City. Lauren and I have talked about moving to Manhattan for our first year of retirement.
BW: What is it that you most dislike?
LM: I am a real fan of organization and tidiness, so a mess really drives me to the brink of insanity.
BM: When the 49ers lose. Sadly, during football season, my mood is affected by whether the San Francisco 49ers win or lose.
BW: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
LM: My education. I obtained my Doctor of Dental Surgery [degree] from UCLA, and completed a residency in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics from Oregon Health & Science University. It was a long road of schooling, but worth every minute, and I am so grateful for my career as an orthodontist.
BM: I’d have to say getting drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2002. It was my dream to play in the major leagues and, after being selected in the 13th round that year, I got my chance.
BW: Which living person do you most admire?
LM: I would have to say both of my parents. They are two of the most loving, supportive, faith-filled people I know. Our family suffered an enormous loss when we lost my younger brother in 2007, and my parents courageously found hope and healing after such unimaginable heartbreak.
BM: Joe Rogan. My brother introduced me to his podcast many years ago and I have enjoyed listening to his interviews with such a variety of people. I admire his genuine
curiosity, sense of humor, outlook on health and fitness, and spotlighting so many interesting people and topics.
BW: Which talent would you most like to have?
LM: I would love to be a good singer. I’ve always wanted to sing, but I just don’t think it’s in the cards for me. So I will remain a below-average karaoke-er.
BM: I’d love to be able to play musical instruments. The only thing I can play right now is the air guitar and air drums.
BW: What do you most value in your friends?
LM: I truly value vulnerability and authenticity in friendships. It creates an environment of trust and emotional support that then fosters deeper connection and a truly meaningful relationship. My closest girlfriends are some of the most authentic women I know.
BM: I value vulnerability, good question asking, a sense of humor and someone who invites me to hangout.
BW: What are your favorite names?
LM: Our two sons’ names—Reid Cameron and Hayes Patrick. Their first names were our favorite names from a name book, and their middle names carry family significance.
BM: I love nicknames. “Fred” was mine, “Fleisch” was Lauren’s and our name we call each other is “Dahhls.” Those three nicknames put a smile on my face.
BW: What is the quality you most like in a man/woman?
LM: I love a great sense of humor. [There’s] nothing better than a great belly laugh and some levity when life gets serious.
BM: I love a great communicator. I appreciate someone who is direct, honest, transparent and can carry a balanced conversation.
MANFRED FAMILY
Ace in the Hole
MEMBERS OF NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB TESTED THEIR LUCK IN GAMES LIKE POKER, CRAPS AND ROULETTE DURING THE RECENT CASINO NIGHT.
Julie Salib playing roulette
Jim and Gale Luce
Sally and Michael Schreter
Casino night fun Craps table
Poker table
Jenelle Seltzer, Nichole Lyon, Nicole Wolfe, Julie Salib, Alyssa Monroe
Finding Your Tempo
NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB’S DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION CARLO BORUNDA
DETAILS
THE IMPORTANCE OF TEMPO AND RHYTHM IN GOLF.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
While you may think your swing tempo and your swing rhythm are one and the same, they’re actually quite unique. According to Carlo Borunda, the director of instruction at Newport Beach Country Club, the cadence of your swing is defined by your swing rhythm while your tempo is the amount of time it takes to complete a golf swing. “The timing of your swing is measured from the beginning of your backswing to the moment you make contact with the golf ball,” he explains. “Faster tempos typically hit the golf ball farther.” Here, Borunda reveals how you can find your tempo.
BAY WINDOW: What is the difference between golf swing tempo and rhythm?
CARLO BORUNDA: The tempo of a full swing is faster than that of a putting swing. The ideal full swing rhythm is 3 to 1, which implies the forward swing is three times faster than the backswing. Your short game and putting swings have a 2:1 ratio.
BW: Why is the tempo and rhythm of your golf swing important to master?
CB: Mastering your tempo and rhythm is crucial for anyone who is attempting to play golf at a consistent level. PGA TOUR golfer Rory McIlroy’s tempo is faster than LPGA
TOUR golfer Rose Zhang’s, yet they both have similar swing rhythms. The rhythm of their golf swings allows them to consistently repeat their swings under tournament pressure.
BW: How can improving your rhythm improve your overall game?
CB: The best golfers in the world have achieved the ideal ratio of backswing to downswing time. The tour average for the full swing is .75 backswing time to .25 downswing time. The tour average for putting and short game swings is .60 backswing time to .30 downswing time. Their ability to consistently repeat this rhythm as they play allows them to control the distance of their golf shots. Distance control is one of the more important aspects of playing exceptionally well. When you can choose and hit a shot with confidence, you play your best golf.
BW: Why is tempo consistency so pivotal when it comes to improving your scores?
CB: A faster tempo is ideal for generating more clubhead speed with your full swings. A tempo that is too fast, on the other hand, will result in a loss of balance, which directly affects your ability to make solid contact with the golf ball. As you practice, your goal is to find a pace that allows you to optimize your efforts to generate speed while maintaining balance at impact. The farther you can hit the ball on a consistent basis, the more lofted your golf clubs will be for your approach shots to the green. These shorter clubs are ideal for improving your accuracy and ultimately lowering your scores as you play.
BW: On what elements should you focus to improve your balance for a full swing?
CB: Your balance is largely affected by your posture. The ideal posture has several distinct qualities. First, develop the proper distribution of weight from the lead foot to the trail foot. Your goal is to distribute approximately 60% of the pressure onto your lead leg. Next, develop
A balanced setup makes it easier for you to make better contact with the golf ball.
a some flex in the legs, where the knees are slightly forward of the shins. As you maintain a relaxed but somewhat straight back, allow your torso to lean forward from the hips, making sure to not drop your chin too much, which will cause you to lose your upper body position. Lastly, you should allow your arms to hang from your shoulders as you grip the club in your hands.
BW: How much does a relaxing grip and stance play a role in your success?
CB: Contrary to popular belief, the ideal grip pressure is firm for all full swings. This will allow you to retain control of the golf club as you swing at higher speeds. It is also important to maintain your grip pressure, regardless of the shot type. You may first experience strain in your arms or shoulders as a result of this firmer grip pressure. These are the places that require relaxation. The increased grip pressure should not cause your wrists to lock. They should have the same mobility regardless of how much pressure you apply to the golf club.
BW: Are there any drills you can do on your own to improve your tempo?
CB: A simple yet effective drill to improve your tempo is called block practice. This is the way most golfers practice, which is to hit several shots with the same golf club at one target. A consistent tempo will produce similar results in your carry distances. If you notice inconsistencies, this is a red flag that you are not swinging at a repetitive tempo.
BW: Are there any tools or training aids that you can use to help or measure your tempo and rhythm?
CB: Traditionally, the primary tool for improving your rhythm was a metronome. These days, you can download apps to your smartphone that are made expressly to aid your sense of rhythm. Every golfer can benefit from using two relatively affordable pieces of equipment, such as the PRGR portable launch monitor and the Blast Golf swing and stroke analyzer, when seeking to enhance their tempo and rhythm.
BW: Does your pre-shot routine have an effect on the rhythm of your swing?
CB: Every practice session should include time to rehearse and improve your pre-shot routine. An effective routine will allow you to determine the ideal shot type, confidently choose the correct golf club, aim at your target and set up with balance. A routine that has these checkpoints allows you to consistently swing in rhythm.
A 3-1 ratio, where your downswing time is three times faster than your backswing time, is the perfect rhythm for the full swing.
Revving Up the Rivalry
NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB HOSTED THE ANNUAL JONES CUP THIS YEAR, WITH CHAMPIONS AND PROFESSIONALS FROM ORANGE COUNTY CLUBS COMPETING FOR TOP HONORS.
Deborah Haslam, Judy Muncy
The NBCC team
Andy with a birdie on Hole 17
Andy Alderdice, Blair Walsh
Robin Shelton Todd Roberts
NBCC kids cheering on Robin Shelton
Student Athletes
THE RECENT SCHOLARSHIP TOURNAMENT AT NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB
GAVE SOCIAL AND GOLF MEMBERS THE CHANCE TO RAISE EDUCATION FUNDS FOR TEAM MEMBERS AND THEIR DEPENDENTS.
Dennis Bader, Greg Laven, David Root
Douge Forde, Robbie Maurer, Russ Turner, Henry Pontell, Otto Reyer
Todd Watts, Mark Sbicca, Tom Larkin
Brenda Kelly, Dana Rothman, Renee Kelly, Amanda Sanders, Sandra Naughton Scholarship Tournament reception
Jerry Sweet WIllis, Robby Keilch, Tammy Keilch, Robert Keilch
Lisa Clarke, Tracey Sharf, Trish Hendricksen, Shawn Cunningham
Culinary Creations
AS WE GET CLOSER TO OUR ANNUAL BIG WINES, SMALL PLATES EVENT, WE OFFER A BEHINDTHE-SCENES LOOK AT THE PREPARATION THAT GOES INTO CREATING THE MENU.
BY GRAEME BLAIR
Summer is in full swing at the club: The restaurants are busy, the golf course is looking great, and the pool is the perfect place to soak up the sun and grab a bite to eat.
The food and beverage team is in full production and planning mode. One evening that always delights our members and exercises our culinary muscle is the annual Big Wines, Small Plates event. Held on Sept. 16 this year, the event has grown in popularity along with the culinary offerings that complement the high-caliber wines from around the world. Andrew Cichon, our sommelier, and Sarah Sanchez, our food and beverage director—along with our other culinary leaders—are excited to make this another memorable summer event.
The fun challenge is to come up with dishes to compliment the more than 200 90-pluspoint wines that are poured at the event from some of the very best wine regions around the world. This latitude allows us to create dishes from or inspired by France, Spain, Italy and Northern California as well as Latin America, New Zealand and Australia.
The ability to taste such a variety of wine styles and experiment to find a wine and food combination that works just for you is sure to convince you to order a case or two of something special. The stunning décor, music and overall buzz of this event is not to be missed.
With so many directions to take our culinary journey for this event, our wood fired pizza oven is sure to make another
appearance. The club procured “Big Red” last spring and it made its debut on the golf course to rave reviews. The oven is from a manufacturer in Denver that hand builds these to customer specifications. We think they did a wonderful job.
The dough we use at the Seahorse Grille— made from our sourdough-based starter (fun fact: our starter celebrated its first birthday in May of this year)—is a wonderfully complex recipe that creates a crisp base with soft, chewy crust and the ability to achieve a beautiful blistered appearance from all-natural yeast fermentation. We cannot wait for everyone to try this year’s creations during the event.
When it comes to adding flavor to roasted meat and seafood, our Japanese Binchōtan
grill is in a league of its own. We haven’t decided on our direction just yet but, in the past, this grill has allowed our members and their guests to enjoy delicious grilled shrimp and dry-aged New York steaks. Last year, New Zealand spring lamb racks received rave reviews and teams at the recent Jones Cup enjoyed our bulgogi beef.
The secret to the grill is the high heat/low smoke Binchōtan charcoal, which is made from oak that chars ingredients without imparting any undesirable flavor notes; it also accentuates the flavor of the ingredients and the marinade. We’re looking forward to creating something special for this year, too. Be on the look out for details in the Monday Minute from our general manager, Robin Shelton, along with flyers around the club.
Summer Sessions
FROM SUMMER CAMP TO SWIM TEAM, LOCAL YOUTH ARE HAVING FUN IN THE SUN AS PART OF NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB’S SEASONAL PROGRAMMING.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
Finding ways to keep kids busy in the summertime can be difficult, but members of Newport Beach Country Club have an advantage as the property is always hosting fun events for children.
That programming amps up during the warmer months, when local youth can opt for summer camp socializing or take to the pool for a little competition. With camp already in full swing and swim team wrapped for the year, make sure to plan ahead for next summer to keep your kids busy when school is out. No matter which option you choose, there is fun to be had and lessons to be learned as little ones find comfort in their own skin at NBCC.
SUMMER CAMP
Hosting camps is pivotal to child engagement in the summertime, with a number of local venues offering places where kids can go during the day when school is out. But nothing compares to the diversity and excitement of NBCC’s summer camp, which will leave kids wanting to return over and over again.
Running 10 weeks in all, having started on June 12, this annual summer program is better than ever, with each week featuring a new theme around which activities are organized. From educational looks at places around the world, science experiments and wildlife to active themes like sports, fitness or water fun and talent displays for the magic or NBCC Got Talent weeks, there is always something new and exciting happening—meaning that no two weeks are ever the same.
“Members can sign their kids up for the whole summer, for a whole week or just for a day,” says Bianca Gillett, NBCC’s director of recreation and fitness. “They have complete flexibility with that as long as there is room for registration. We allow 35 full-day and 35
half-day [participants] daily.”
Half-day programs run from 9 a.m. to noon while those there for the full day will stay until 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. The first part of the day, from open to noon, is filled with activities that follow the theme of the week—everything from bounce houses, dodgeball, sports and science experiments to arts and crafts or games. Then, the children enjoy lunch and a movie before spending the final hour of the day at the NBCC swimming pool (complete with a water slide). Children who are potty trained, or about 3 years old, through age 11 can attend.
“[Through Summer Camp, the kids get] social interaction with other NBCC kid members, creative skills with the crafts, swimming skills [plus] pure joy,” Gillett notes.
Reach out to the recreation department to check on availability of the remaining weeks or sign up next spring for the 2024 season.
SWIM TEAM
Those between the ages of 4 and 12 are invited to enroll for the swim team each summer, with practices taking place four days a week at the NBCC swimming pool. The team is broken up into three age groups (divisions I, II and III), though swimmers may move up to the next level depending on their skill set as the season progresses.
“Swim Team is popular at NBCC because we provide a cool, fun, exciting … season with great coaches and swim meets, and [we] make sure the kids have fun at practice every day as well as making sure they get better at swimming,” says Gabe Soria, recreation manager at NBCC.
This year, Swim Team was held from June 5 to July 28 with five meets taking place on
Thursdays against Shady Canyon Country Club, Balboa Bay Club, Big Canyon Country Club and Newport Coast Swim Team as well as an all-star competition at the end of the season.
During the summer, swimmers learn all four strokes—freestyle, backstroke, butterfly and breaststroke—as well as things like teamwork and how to win as a team, leadership skills and integrity. But it often has a more lasting impact, showing children how to build relationships, which can lead to longterm friendships and great memories, as well as how to stay committed and be accountable.
“It teaches the kids responsibility … [and shows them what it’s like to be] on a team and know the ups and downs of competing,” Soria says. “… It also teaches sportsmanship—win or lose, [they should] always have a positive attitude and shake hands with the opponent.”
Be on the lookout next spring for information on enrolling your children in the eight-week summer swim team program in order for them to learn water safety, swimming techniques and much more.
SUMMER CAMP THEMES
June 12-16:
Around the World
June 19-23:
Mad Science
June 26-30:
Fun & Fitness
July 3-7
(no camp July 4): Magic
July 10-14:
NBCC Got Talent
July 17-21: Raging Waters
July 24-28:
Carnival
July 31 - Aug. 4:
Disney | Marvel
Aug. 7-11:
Animal Kingdom
Aug. 14-18: Sports
Utility Man
WHETHER IN THE GOLF SHOP OR ON THE COURSE, NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB STAFF MEMBER LAWRENCE MELENDEZ IS READY TO HELP HOWEVER HE IS NEEDED.
BY ASHLEY RYAN
Lawrence Melendez
Lawrence Melendez’s official title is golf shop associate, but his work at Newport Beach Country Club extends beyond that. Always willing to help as needed, Melendez can be found both in the shop and on the course, assisting where he can.
His career started at the young age of 10, when he worked for Eddie Merrins, then the head golf professional at Bel-Air Country Club in Los Angeles. Golf has been a major part of his life ever since. He has worked at a public golf course, as a club fitter/builder for multiple retail shops
and taught lessons for GolfTEC. On top of that, Melendez has served in customer service, field promotion and marketing roles for golf club manufacturers like Srixon/ Cleveland Golf, Honma Golf and Parsons Xtreme Golf (PXG).
In November of 2022, Melendez’s good friend Andrew Alderdice, who is currently an assistant golf professional at NBCC, encouraged him to take a position there. After meeting with John McCook, the director of golf, Melendez knew in his heart that this club would be a fantastic place to work and decided to accept the job as golf shop associate.
“My current role is very much a hybrid position—a utility man, if you will,” Melendez explains. “Primarily, I am the assistant to our shop manager, but also perform assistant golf professional roles.” His typical tasks throughout the week include receiving merchandise for the pro shop as well as manning the counter/register, performing club fittings and repairs, acting as the starter on the first tee or serving as the on-course marshal.
“Every day is different, which keeps things fresh,” he adds. “… [Plus,] the membership is awesome, so I really enjoy the interactions with each and every one of them. … There are so many incredibly interesting people here at NBCC and each has been amazingly friendly.”
Notably, Melendez is also in the process of reattaining his PGA status, which he says is his main goal at the time.
Outside of work, he says spending time with his wife, Claudia, and his daughters Katalina, 25, and Emma, 4, is his main interest. “There’s a significant age gap between the two of them, … but both enjoy golf and visits to the nail salon for a mani/pedi day with dad,” he notes.
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,
Summer fun at the Balboa Bay Club has been a long-standing tradition and this year is no exception! We hit the ground running with our Father’s Day Car Show and continued right into our July celebrations including, of course, July 4th, and our first concert of the year with George Michael Reborn.
As we move into August, our fitness center remodel is well underway and new equipment is days away from being delivered. Thank you for all the positive feedback on the remodel as well as Ashley’s weekly updates and sneak peeks into the project. Make sure to check your weekly email blast for a special invitation to the grand reopening later this month.
In the meantime, we have lots of events for you to enjoy starting with our Luau on August 4th, followed by our Back to School Bingo on the 8th, our Flashback Heart Attack Concert on the 11th and much more.
As always, Aaron has all the event details listed for you in this month’s magazine as well as a special invitation to our much anticipated 75th Anniversary Celebration on September 22nd.
It was great seeing so many members join us for the opening of the Balboa Bay Club exhibit at the Balboa Island Museum of Newport Beach last month. Such a great time talking with you and taking a walk down memory lane while reliving fun times at the Club. If you haven’t had the opportunity to see the exhibit, fear not, as it will run through the end of the year.
We are truly blessed to have the opportunity to celebrate 75 years of this wonderful club, its members and the incredible team that keeps it running each and every day. Thank you for all your continued support of the club!
Leticia
H YOGA
August Calendar
H BACK-TO-SCHOOL BINGO 6:00 PM MEMBERS LAWN
9:00 – 9:45 PM MEMBERS LAWN H FIESTA TACO TUESDAY 5:00 – 9:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL H YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 PM MEMBERS LAWN
H FIESTA TACO TUESDAY 5:00 – 9:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H CHARCUTERIE & WINE WEDNESDAY 5:00 – 9:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
21 22 23
H YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 PM MEMBERS LAWN
H HAPPY HOUR
3:00 – 6:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H HAPPY HOUR
3:00 – 6:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H FIESTA TACO TUESDAY 5:00 – 9:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 PM MEMBERS LAWN
H FIESTA TACO TUESDAY 5:00 – 9:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H CHARCUTERIE & WINE WEDNESDAY 5:00 – 9:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H KID’S CLUB 4:00 – 8:00 PM
H PRIME RIB THURSDAY 5:00 – 8:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H KID’S CLUB 4:00 – 8:00 PM
H PRIME RIB THURSDAY 5:00 – 8:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H HAWAIIAN SUMMER LUAU PARTY 6:30 PM MEMBERS LAWN NO GUESTS
H CHARCUTERIE & WINE WEDNESDAY 5:00 – 9:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H BBC BURGER BASH 5:00 – 7:30 PM MEMBERS LAWN
H FLASHBACK HEART ATTACK SUMMER CONCERT 6:30 PM DOORS OPEN 7:30 PM CONCERT MEMBERS LAWN 21 AND OLDER
H BOOT CAMP CLASS 9:00 – 10:00 AM MEMBERS LAWN
H FAMILY WESTERN NIGHT WITH LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC 5:00 – 8:00 PM MEMBERS LAWN
H KID’S CLUB 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM & 4:00 – 8:00 PM
H YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 AM MEMBERS LAWN
H WEEKEND BRUNCH 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H LIVE MUSIC IN MEMBERS GRILL 6:00 – 9:00 PM
H KID’S CLUB 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM & 4:00 – 8:00 PM
H YOGA CLASS 9:00 – 9:45 AM MEMBERS LAWN
H WEEKEND BRUNCH 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H LIVE MUSIC IN MEMBERS
H KID’S CLUB 4:00 – 8:00 PM
H PRIME RIB THURSDAY 5:00 – 8:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
H YÄCHTLEY CRËW SUMMER CONCERT 6:30 PM DOORS OPEN 7:30 PM CONCERT MEMBERS LAWN 21 AND OLDER
Selby Gillett Director of Membership
I’M EXPECTING BABY #2, CHRISTINA NUÑEZ TAKES THE HELM FOR THE SUMMER IN THE MEMBERSHIP OFFICE
BY SELBY GILLETT, DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP
How wonderful it was to finally have some consistent sunshine this past month! I know I can speak on behalf of the entire Club staff when I say it has been supremely welcome and along with the sunshine, we have loved seeing so many of you enjoying the summer here.
As some of you may already be aware, I am expecting my second child at the end of next month. A baby boy this time! My family and I are thrilled of course, but sadly it does mean I will be taking a leave of absence from this wonderful Club family once again for several months starting at the beginning of September. During my leave, please be sure to direct all membership questions to Christine Nuñez, Membership Coordinator. She may be reached by phone at 949-630-4353, email at cnunez@balboabayclub.com, or by visiting the membership offices. Her desk and friendly face are right up at the front and ready to greet you.
I look forward to returning shortly after the new year and ask that all of you have an extra bit of fun for me at what will surely be a sensational party to celebrate the Club’s 75th Anniversary on September 22nd!
Please help me welcome: The Sun is Out!
DAVID FAMILY:
With our primary residence in Northern Virginia, we are excited to be part of a community when we spend our summers in Newport Beach. We look forward to making new friends and creating memories for our young family!
TONY PICCIANO:
I am excited to be a new member of the Balboa Bay Club. I live in the Irvine area and own a medical device manufacturing company in Irvine and often have colleagues from all over the world visiting my Irvine facility. I will be proud to have my guests stay at the Bay Club during their visit to my Facility. I am also looking forward to making new friends and enjoying all the amenities the Bay Club has to offer.
August
HAWAIIAN SUMMER LUAU PARTY
FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 • 6:30 PM
MEMBERS LAWN AND BEACH
Transport your entire family to the islands for an evening with our ever-popular Hawaiian Summer Luau. Enjoy welcome leis, authentic live music, Chef’s wholeroasted pig on the beach, tropical drinks, Polynesian Dancers, and a Fire-Knife Dancer finale! Guaranteed to sell out, so please get your tickets early! Members Only, No Guests, No Walk-Ins. Seating is limited. 72-hour cancellation policy. Reservations required, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL BINGO
TUESDAY, AUGUST 8 • 6:00 PM • MEMBERS LAWN
Enjoy one final game night on the Bay before heading back to school. Lucky winners will be awarded school supplies, plus great gift card prizes. Snacks and beverage service will be available. Guest policy in effect. 48-hour cancellation policy in effect. Reservations required, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
“FLASHBACK HEART ATTACK” - THE ULTIMATE 80s
EXPERIENCE - LIVE SUMMER CONCERT
FRIDAY, AUGUST 11 • 6:30 PM DOORS OPEN, 7:30 PM
CONCERT • MEMBERS LAWN
Flashback Heart Attack delivers the highest quality 80s music experience ever! Performing over 100 live shows annually, this is your own private concert to hear the songs you remember and dance to the music you love! Guaranteed to sell out, get your tickets early! Very limited seating available. 2-guest max per membership. 72-hour cancellation policy. For tickets, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
LADIES BUNCO NIGHT
MONDAY, AUGUST 14 • 5:30 – 7:30 PM
RESORT LIBRARY
A perfect way to meet other women of the Club. Make reservations quickly to join us for the fast-paced dice game of Bunco. House wine and snacks
included. Bring $12 cash for game buy-in, all monies awarded at end of games. Even the biggest loser can come home the biggest winner! Space is limited. A Members only event. 48-hour cancellation policy in effect. Reservations required, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
BACK
TO SCHOOL MOVIE BUCKET
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 16 (AVAILABLE FOR PICK-UP
BETWEEN 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Gather your family for a movie night at home. Complete the experience with your very own pre-made Movie Night Bucket. Order your Family Movie Bucket today by calling the Club Desk at 949.630.4120. Movie Night Buckets are compliments of your Club. One bucket per family please.
BBC BURGER BASH NIGHT
THURSDAY, AUGUST 17 • 5:00 – 7:30 PM
MEMBER LAWN
Our last Burger Bash of the season on the lawn! Our DJ will play all your favorites,
WEEKEND BRUNCH ON THE BAY
plus kids will enjoy fun games, dancing, balloons, a limbo contest, and more. Take a night off from cooking as we grill up all your Burger Bash favorites, including Power Burgers, Hot Dogs and more at regular summer prices. Reservations not required.
“YÄCHTLEY CRËW” - YACHTY SOFT ROCK - LIVE SUMMER CONCERT
FRIDAY, AUGUST 25 • 6:30 PM DOORS OPEN, 7:30 PM
CONCERT • MEMBERS LAWN
Yächtley Crëw, also known as, “The Titans of Soft Rock,” will reel you in with not only their great sound but also their silly and fun antics as they perform timeless soft rock hits from Christopher Cross to Hall & Oates to Toto and more! You will love the look of their thematic nautical suits and highly entertaining, cheeky, self-aware choreography. Guaranteed to sell out, get your tickets early! Very limited seating available. 2-guest max per membership. 72-hour cancellation policy. For tickets, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
2ND ANNUAL BBC CORN HOLE TOURNAMENT
SUNDAY, AUGUST 27 • BEGINS AT 11:00 AM
MEMBERS LAWN
Join us on the lawn this summer for our second annual Corn Hole Tournament. Members will compete for great prizes and bragging rights for the year. Our perpetual trophy, proudly displayed in the Members Grill will soon have a new plaque added with the winning team. Could it be you? Enter in teams of two to compete. Adults 21 and over only. Entrance fee per team (charged to one membership account). Includes a light lunch, complimentary beer or iced tea. This will sell out quickly as the number of teams is limited. 72-hour cancellation policy in effect. Please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120 to enter.
September
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 like Avocado Toast, Eggs Benedict, Huevos Steak Rancheros and Steak Chilaquiles. Kids will love their own new Rise ‘N’ Shine Menu including delicious Belgian Waffles, and Buttermilk Pancakes hot off the griddle! Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
SUMMER BEACH GRILLIN’
EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY • 12:00 – 3:00 PM AT THE BEACH
All summer long, bring family and friends for summertime favorites, grilled fresh to order on the Beach! Refreshing summer cocktails and daily drink specials at the Pool Bar, while you soak up some sun. Reservations not required.
KONA ICE DAY
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 • 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
MEMBER POOLSIDE/LAWN
Just for the Kids on Saturday, come get your favorite flavors of Kona Shaved Ice, compliments of the Club. Parents will enjoy the Member’s Pool Bar featuring great drinks and ice-cold beers on tap.
Our traditional beachside BBQ will be open and grilling up summertime favorites.
POOLSIDE MUSIC & BEACH GRILL
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 • 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
MEMBER POOLSIDE
Soak up the sun, cool off in the pool, relax and listen to great poolside music. Our traditional beachside BBQ will also be available.
BUILD YOUR OWN PASTA BAR
EVERY SUNDAY NIGHT • 4:00 - 8:00 PM
MEMBERS GRILL
Chef Jacob’s all-you-can-eat “Build Your Own Pasta Bar” is back. Sunday nights at the Club just got better. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
BBC’S FAMOUS LABOR DAY CARNIVAL – MORE FUN
THAN EVER!
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
MEMBER LAWN
Summer is not over for the kids until they attend our famous Labor Day Carnival, featuring carnival games, prizes, great DJ music, fresh popcorn, live entertainers, balloon twisters, face painters and more! Members only. Reservations not required. Beach lounge chairs are available on a first come, first served basis, plan to arrive early. No Guests. Member only event.
FIESTA TACO TUESDAYS
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 12, 19 & 26 • 5:00 – 9:00 PM MEMBERS GRILL
Live music and great Margarita specials, paired with Chef Jacob’s delicious Menu Items! Taco Man Station featuring: Carne Asada, Chicken or Fish Tacos, Seafood Ceviche, Tijuana Caesar Salad, Enchiladas, Dessert Station and more. Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
BALBOA BAY CLUB COTILLION
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • THIRD GRADE 4:30 – 5:45 PM, FOURTH/FIFTH GRADE 6:00 – 7:15 PM IN THE CLUBHOUSE
A re-energized version of traditional cotillion! Learn everything from contemporary dances like the “Electric Slide” to sophisticated and everyday manners. The program is designed to encourage, motivate and reward, while teaching polished social skills no longer taught in schools today. Sessions are held once a month, beginning this fall. Please call Susan Werner at 949.310.6732 to enroll your child or grandchild. Space is limited.
NFL FOOTBALL NIGHTS RETURN WITH A NEW GAME DAY MENU! • BEGINS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 • MEMBERS GRILL
Thursday Nights - Starting at 5:15 PM, Sundays All Day - Starting at 10:00 AM and Monday Nights - Starting at 5:15 PM. New Game Day Menu available in the Lounge or Poolside throughout the games. Reservations not required.
PRIME RIB THURSDAYS
EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT • 5:00 – 9:00 PM
MEMBERS GRILL
Join us on Thursday nights this month for Chef Jacob’s Prime Rib Dinner. Enjoy a 12 oz. Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Au Jus and Horseradish Crème, fresh Bread Rolls, finished with Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream and Caramel Bourbon Sauce! Reservations required, please call Members Grill at 949.630.4290.
KID’S CLUB MOVIE NIGHT/PARENT DATE NIGHT FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 • 6:00 – 9:00 PM • ROOM TBD
Kids are going to love watching their favorite Disney Movie on the Big Screen, while parents enjoy a Date Night at the Club! Unlimited popcorn, movie theater candies and kid’s dinner included! Bring your favorite pillow and blanket and come in your pajamas. Limited seating available, so make reservations early. Members only, no guests. Kids must be checked in and out by their parents. Parents are welcome to enjoy their own dinner in A+O or Members Grill. Parents must remain on property. Reservations required, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
Addington Cotillion has re-energized traditional cotillion to make it more fun for everyone.
Learn everything from contemporary dances like the “Electric Slide” to sophisticated and everyday manners.
The program is designed to encourage, motivate, and reward, while teaching polished social skills no longer taught in schools today.
Cost per child includes all 6 class sessions, held once a month at the Club beginning this Fall.
Please call Susan Werner at 949-310-6732 to enroll your child or grandchild. Space is limited.
LADIES BUNCO NIGHT
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 • 5:30 – 7:30 PM
RESORT LIBRARY
Make reservations to join us for the fast-paced dice game of Bunco. This event sells out quickly. House wine and snacks included. Bring $12 cash for game buy-in, all monies awarded at the end of the games. Even the biggest loser can come home the biggest winner! Space is limited. A Members only event. 48-hour cancellation policy in effect. Reservations required, please call the Club Desk at 949.630.4120.
BALBOA BAY CLUB’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY MEMBER CELEBRATION!
BLAST THROUGH THE PAST BEACH PARTY
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 • 6:00 PM
CLUBHOUSE, MEMBERS LAWN, BEACH
The biggest BBC event ever! Come celebrate 75 years of history together! A very special Anniversary event for Members that will take you on a journey through the decades, from 1948 to present day. A nostalgic look back at yester-year, with live music to dance under the stars. Adults will enjoy a signature cocktail upon arrival and a variety of food stations throughout. Compliments of your Club. Parents must remain with children at all times. No childcare services. Drinks available for purchase at no-host bars. Reservations are required by calling 949.630.4120 or register online at BalboaBayClub.com. No Guests. Member only event.
END OF SUMMER MOVIE NIGHT BUCKETS!
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 (AVAILABLE FOR PICK-UP BETWEEN 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Gather your family for a great movie night at home. Complete the experience with your very own pre-made Movie Night Bucket filled with popcorn, candy and more. 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.
Blast Through the Past Beach Party
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 AT 6:00 PM CLUBHOUSE, MEMBERS LAWN, BEACH
THE BIGGEST BBC EVENT
EVER! COME CELEBRATE 75 YEARS OF HISTORY TOGETHER!
A very special Anniversary event for Members that will take you on a journey through the decades, from 1948 to present day. A nostalgic look back at yester-year, with live music to dance under the stars. Adults will enjoy a signature cocktail upon arrival and a variety of food stations throughout.
Parents must remain with children at all times. No childcare services. Drinks available for purchase at no-host bars.
OR
Let Freedom Ring
MEMBERS CELEBRATE AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY IN RED, WHITE AND BLUE STYLE
Emma and Ellen Rasch
Addie and Tami Lloyd
Savannah Hudson
Audrie and Ava Brennan
The Bonezzi Family
Claudia and Adeline Lee
Pam and Bill Overfelt
Erica and Siena Angelo
Jameson and Alex Brown
The Allison Family
DJ Bibb, Taylor and Michelle Peck, Erin Liberto, Jessica Bibb
Art and Governor Jane Rivera, Mary and Mark Doyle
The Brayton Family
The Arndt Family
The Costa Family
Celebrating Dad
A MASSIVE TURNOUT OF MORE THAN 2,000 GUESTS ENJOYED THE 2023 FATHER’S DAY CAR SHOW PRODUCED BY THE BALBOA BAY CLUB AT BALBOA BAY RESORT
BY BRUCE COOK
More than 2,000 guests were very happy at a special event on Father’s Day in Newport. Dads joined their families and friends for the 2023 Balboa Bay Club Father’s Day Car Show and Brunch by the Bay at Balboa Bay Resort. The lively outing was open to the community for an automotive journey down a mechanical memory lane. For the past 20 seasons, the Balboa Bay Club has hosted the event, growing from a small show into a veritable concours d’elegance displaying this year some 115 automotive works of art, design and performance.
John Wortmann, Chairman of the Balboa Bay Club Board of Governors once again turned out in his summer white suit to emcee the day-long festivity. He was joined by his wife Anne Wortmann, daughter and son-inlaw Devon and Jared Miller, greeting the crush of car lovers, and a few ex-car lovers. One collector in the crowd quipped, “Maintaining a classic car is just like owning a boat. Love it, and love to see it sold when it’s time to go!” The man insisted on animosity, but added, “I still love to look. Come here every year. My wife says, ‘look, don’t buy.’ ”
Governor Wortmann was joined by fellow club govs welcoming the huge turnout. Front and center were Eagle Four Partners and Balboa Bay Club ownership family members Todd Pickup and Kevin Martin. Governor and banker Noel Hamilton checked out the vintage racecars with his community activist bride Kathy Hamilton. Also on hand, Governors Jane Rivera, Ryan Tomalas, Wayne Harvey and Dr. Daniel Yanni.
The massive exhibit is made possible by the generous support of sponsors including Meguiars, Lucid Motors, The Find Group, Maserati of Newport Beach, Crevier Classic Cars and Fifth Third Bank. Wortmann and committee, led by Aaron Trent and Melanie Hertrick spend months working with sponsors, collectors and car enthusiasts to produce the show.
2023 FATHER’S DAY CAR SHOW WINNERS
Chairman’s Award Max Clemens
Chairman’s Award Bob & Kristi Jacob
Favorite Car in Show Morris Stark
Dad’s Pick George Evans
Sexiest Car Bob & Dovie Koop
Luxury Car Michael Farrah
Classic Car Vic Szuba
Best Paint Darrin Seal
Best Stitch interior Sandra Harmon
Board Of Governors Jerry Marquez
Board Of Governors David & Donna Shockley
Board Of Governors Brad & Sally LaPoint
Board Of Governors Craig Harvey
John Wortmann and Joe Stapleton
Jared Miller holding up Jagger Sills
Spotted among the cars were collectors and show entrants Jose Alvarez with his elegant 1938 Buick Roadmaster Convertible, Jerry Marquez showing off a very special 1958 Cadillac El Dorado Biarritz, and Todd Pickup’s 1954 Barndoor 23 Window Deluxe Volkswagen. Jason Hill displayed a 1993 Land Rover Defender 110 NAS, nearby a 1931 Model A Ford pickup from Anthony Livano, and the classy 1962 suicide door Lincoln Continental from Peter Scofield. At the close of the show, 18 trophies were awarded. Among the honored were: Vic Szuba (Classic Car Award, 1955 Chevy Bel Air), Darrin Seal (Best Paint Award, 1955 Chevy), Michael Farrah
Natascha Schlief and Chris Batterton
Ashley and George Evans
Billy and Colter Green
Max Clemens - Chairman’s Award - 1966 Cobra 289
Devon Miller presenting award to David Karaffa - British Car Award Winner - 1962 MG Mark II Roadster
George Evans - Dad’s Pick Award - 1963 Volkswagen Double Cab
The Adams Family
(Luxury Car Award, 2020 Rolls Royce Phantom Convertible), Rick Prieto (Muscle Car Award, 1970 Plymouth Barracuda), Sandra Harmon (Best Stitched Interior Award, 1959 Dodge Coronet), and Bob and Dovie Koop (Sexiest Car Award, 2020 Corvette), among many others.
The top awards went to Morris Stark (Favorite Car in Show, Vanguard Citicar 1976), and two entrees sharing the Chairman’s Award, Max Clemens’ 1966 Cobra 289 and Bob and Kristi Jacob’s 2022 Custom Woodie Moke.
Post-car show fun, the crowd enjoyed Sunday brunch in the handsome Balboa Bay Resort ballroom created by award-winning Chef Prabeen Prathapan or joined friends on the bayfront lawn of the hotel for al fresco dining under white umbrellas watching the holiday boaters glide down the main channel of the Newport Harbor. That’s as good as it gets.
The Reels Family
The Smith Family
The Dallape Family
The Perkins Family
The Sanchez Family
The Krolikowski Family
The Moody Family
Elixir Of The Gods
WINES BY THE BAY CELEBRATION BRINGS OUT THE CROWD SAMPLING AN EXQUISITE ARRAY OF WINES FROM PARTICIPATING WINERIES
Lindsey Soylemex and Suzanne Dunlap
Jan and Lisa Spierings and Jack and Joy Kayajanian
Mike Land, Brian Krebs, Josh Parker
Angela and Jay Schwanz and Michelle Larson Elliot and Stephanie Lowe
Estel Hilton and Cheryl Glover
Heather Perkins and Whitney Barbaracs
Kristi Jacob and Rebecca Hall
Hot Off The Grill
BURGER BASH RETURNS AT THE CLUB FOR SUMMER DINING BY THE BAY
George Michael Lives!
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES KICKS OFF WITH GEORGE MICHAEL TRIBUTE ON THE BAYFRONT
LAWN
Wham Tribute
Randy and Chantel Beck
Ryan and Mina Rundles
Thomas and Angela Manakides
Andrea and Adrianna Parsons Tracie and Jeff Rowerdink
Kelli and Steve Walden
Wham Tribute
Front And Center
THE PERFECT ONE BEDROOM WATERFRONT BEACH BUNGALOW
Rarely available handsomely remodeled one-bedroom, one-bath bayfront residence with state-of-the-art kitchen, open dining room and living room flowing to terrace over the water. A hotel-quality primary suite and adjoining bath also includes in-home laundry. Full security, full service, dining, recreation, and unparalleled amenities await at Balboa Bay Residences.
FALL SWIM TEAM
In our Fall Swim Team program, swimmers will develop stroke work, ip turns, & teamwork all in a fun environment! Swimmers will also build more strength, stamina & endurance in the water.
DATES: Practice will run from September 6th until October 25th.
DAYS: Mondays & Wednesdays
AGES: 6 & up
PRACTICE TIMES:
6-year-olds: 3:30 – 4 :00PM
7-year-olds: 4:00 – 4:30 PM
8 & Up: 4:30 – 5:30 PM
Class minimum is 12. Member dependents only. For more information or to register, contact Recreation by email at bbcrecreation@balboabayclub.com or by phone at 949-630-4420.
PASTA BAR
BUILD YOUR OWN PASTA BAR SUNDAY
4:00 – 8:00 PM
at Members Grill
Choose from a selection of di erent types of pasta, fresh veggies, sauces, meats, cheeses, and fresh herbs.
Comes with side salad with Italian dressing. All you can eat!
Adults $21, children 12 and under $14. (Plus tax and gratuity)
Reservations are always encouraged. For Reservations Call 949-630-4290
We are delighted to offer unfurnished long-term studio residences with partial water views, available for a minimum 12-month lease
Through the Resident Membership Program, you'll have access to all the member amenities including a private beach, three pools, fitness center, and multiple restaurants Our staff is dedicated to providing top-notch service, ensuring that your every need is met during your stay
Through the Resident Membership Program, you'll have access to all the member amenities including a private beach, three pools, fitness center, and multiple restaurants Our staff is dedicated to providing top-notch service, ensuring that your every need is met during your stay
Don't
Don't miss your chance to experience the ultimate in luxury living. Contact our leasing department at (949)630-4379 or LBryan@balboabayclub com to learn more
Marina Dutton General Manager Balboa Bay Resort
Dear Valued Guests, Members and Visitors,
Welcome to Balboa Bay Resort this August! We hope you are as excited as we are about the incredible experiences that await you during your stay.
As you plan your visit, here are some of “My Favorite Things” to enjoy at Balboa Bay Resort:
1. Sunday Seafood Brunch: Indulge in a culinary journey of exquisite flavors as you savor a sumptuous seafood brunch on the bay. From fresh oysters and lobster claws to chef action stations, our delectable spread has something for everyone.
2. Duffy Boat Rides on the Bay: Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the bay as you embark on a Duffy boat adventure. Cruise along the glistening waters, taking in the picturesque views of the coastline, while creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
3. Lounging Poolside in a Daybed: Relax and bask in the glorious California sunshine as you unwind on one of our luxurious daybeds by the pool. Whether you choose to sip on a refreshing cocktail or dive into a captivating book, our poolside experience is designed to provide ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
4. Spa Treatment: Treat yourself to a pampering spa experience at our spa and indulge in a wide range of treatments, from soothing massages to revitalizing facials, expertly tailored to enhance your well-being and leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
I hope these suggestions will make your stay at Balboa Bay Resort truly relaxing and unforgettable.
In addition to my suggestions above, please be sure to join us on August 4th between 11am and 3pm at Drybar for an exclusive event with Parker J Permanent Jewelry. We are lucky to have this exciting pop-up back once again by popular demand.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! (Pun intended) We are thrilled to announce that on August 18th, Balboa Bay Resort will be hosting a visit from none other than actor/entrepreneur Mark Wahlberg, co-founder of Flecha Azul, at A+O Restaurant | Bar from 5pm to 6pm. Check out our Events Calendar at balboabayresort.com for more information and details.
We look forward to providing you with an extraordinary August filled with cherished memories.
Enjoy mimosas, sparkling wine, orange juice, coffee and tea alongside beautiful bay views and an assortment of decadent seafood, cl assic brunch favorites, and assorted desserts. Visit balboabayresort com
645 5000
CONGRATULATIONS JENNY AND MIKE!
BALBOA BAY RESORT IS A YEAR-ROUND FAVORITE FOR SPECIAL EVENTS
BACKHAUS & KERR WEDDING - MARCH 18, 2023 JIM KENNEDY PHOTOGRAPHERS
SIGNATURE PARTY RENTALS, BLOOM OF TIME (FLORIST), WEDDING COORDINATOR REBECCA CALAGNA
HALEY MOSCOS, SOCIAL CATERING MANAGER, EXPLAINS why Balboa Bay Resort is popular among members and guests for special events.
WHAT MAKES BALBOA BAY RESORT A YEAR-ROUND FAVORITE FOR SPECIAL EVENTS LIKE WEDDINGS?
Balboa Bay Resort offers stunning waterfront locations with breathtaking views, creating a picturesque backdrop for weddings. Bayfront Lawn is where our ceremonies usually take place. It offers water and luxury yacht views (and an occasional “congratulations” from people cruising by) leaving couples and their guests with unforgettable memories.
WHAT UNIQUE FEATURES AND SERVICES DOES BALBOA BAY RESORT PROVIDE FOR WEDDING EVENTS?
Besides the outdoor event spaces and waterfront terraces, elegant indoor options are available including a Grand Ballroom which is currently
undergoing an extensive renovation, and the Bay View Room which just completed its remodel. Jenny and Mike used the popular Lighthouse Room with floor to ceiling windows for dinner, then walked right upstairs to Bay View Room for dessert and dancing. Plus, when you book a wedding here, you get me! I oversee all weddings from start to finish unlike some of the other wedding venues where you get turned over to a service manager. We also provide personalized wedding planning services from start to finish including meetings in the new Wedding Showroom to select items such as linens, place settings, and outside services like florists. I pride myself in pairing couples with the right vendor partners based on personality, style, etc. It’s important that everyone is in sync! Our expert culinary offerings are personally overseen by Executive Chef Prabeen who you will meet at your personal menu tasting. We also offer luxurious accommodations for the couple and their guests to ensure a seamless and memorable wedding experience. Plus, we are pet-friendly so your fur-baby can attend your special day.
WHAT ADVANTAGES DOES BALBOA BAY RESORT OFFER FOR YEAR-ROUND WEDDINGS?
Balboa Bay Resort’s prime location in Southern California provides pleasant weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for weddings throughout all the seasons. The resort’s indoor and outdoor venues offer flexibility, allowing couples to plan their dream wedding regardless of the time of year. And the resort’s proximity to various attractions and activities in the area ensures that guests can enjoy a complete vacation experience during their stay.
ARE YOU OFFERING ANY WEDDING PROMOTIONAL SPECIALS CURRENTLY?
Yes! Book your wedding by August 30, 2023, and enjoy a complimentary glass of house sparkling wine for your guests after the ceremony. Some restrictions apply but be sure to mention this promo when you reach out to me at hmoscos@balboabayresort.com or 949-630-4357. Cheers!
Haley Moscos, Social Catering Manager
Lighthouse Room Bay View Room
Bay Front Lawn Sunset
Happy Together
IT’S ALL HAPPENING AT THE 2023 OC FAIR
BY RYAN G. COOK
The 2023 Orange County Fair, running from July 14 to August 13, will embrace the theme of "Happy Together" to celebrate community inclusion. Last year's theme, "Feel the Sunshine," drew an impressive attendance of 1,055,173, with 16 sold-out days. The fair saw a surge in participation, with 10,000 competition entries from 3,068 exhibitors–an increase of 20% from 2021. Attendees enjoyed a staggering 2.5 million carnival rides, consumed over 100 hot dogs and buns, relished 45,000 fried Oreos and Twinkies, parked 231,736 cars, and generated 44,611,100 social media impressions. Additionally, the fair contributed $242,967.76 to support agriculture students through the Junior Livestock Auction, resulting in the sale of 153 animals. Visitors to Heroes Hall had the opportunity to explore exhibits, witness a real Huey helicopter, and participate in decorating 1,000 postcards for the troops. The Hangar featured 12 sold-out concerts, while the Action Sports Arena hosted 11 sold-out events. Furthermore, the Pacific Amphitheatre sold out 8 shows.
To maintain a limited-capacity model, the fair will restrict admission tickets to 45,000 per day, necessitating advanced ticket purchase. This marks the fourth consecutive year of implementing such limitations, and it is expected that many days will sell out. A new offering, the OC Fair Everyday Passport, will be introduced this year, granting guests access to the fair throughout its 23-day duration without the need for advance tickets. The passports will be priced at $60 each, with a limited sale of 10,000.
Michele Richards, OC Fair CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event, stating, "There is no better way to celebrate summer than to be 'Happy Together' at the OC Fair. We've worked tirelessly throughout the year to bring the community together once again, offering a multitude of fun experiences and the goodness that the OC Fair embodies— food, rides, animals, entertainment, shopping, exhibits, and more. We eagerly anticipate opening day on July 14!"
This year, ticket prices will experience a slight increase. General admission prices on weekdays (Wednesday and Thursday) will rise by $1, marking the first increase since 2014, reaching $13. On weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), general admission will be priced at $15, a $2 increase introduced in 2017.
Seniors aged 60+ and children aged 6-13 will be charged $9 for admission on all days, reflecting a $2 increase–the first since 2014. To encourage advance purchases, the OC Fair will once again cover online admission ticket transaction fees. Admission tickets will not be available for sale at the OC Fair entry gates. Parking fees will also experience a $2 increase to $12, applicable year-
round. The fair will operate from 11 am to 11 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and from 11 am to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Live music performances will feature renowned artists such as Dwight Yoakam, Asleep at the Wheel, Bee Gees Gold with ABBA LA, and Queen Nation. Returning favorites at the OC Fair include magician Frank Thurston, the Brew Hee Haw craft beer festival, thrilling monster trucks, exciting demolition derbies, heart-pounding All-Alaskan pig races, and, of course, a variety of zany fair food options.
For more information visit https://ocfair. com/oc-fair/
F I T N E S S B Y T H E B A Y F I T N E S S B Y T H E B A Y
Every Monday | Bayfront Lawn
Cardio + Strength 4:00pm | 5:15pm | 6:30pm
Join us for a complimentary waterfront fitness class with CAZ Training Club for the perfect blend of cardio and strength training
Email info@caztrainingclub com a minimum of 12 hours in advance to reserve your spot
Classes are limited Complimentary for Hotel Guests and Balboa Bay Club Members only Available every Monday except holidays
Age: It’s All in Your Mind
FACING ISSUES OF MENTAL HEALTH IN THE AGING PROCESS
BY DRS. ALLYSON BROOKS AND MICHAEL BRANT-ZAWADZKI
When I pass a mirror these days, the reflection surprises me. That forehead oozing like lava over the landscape of thinning and whitening hair is a stark reality test. Though mostly I feel reasonably spry, there’s no denying Father Time.
As we age, our elasticity clearly suffers. A fall is not just a short trip. Our muscles and joints increasingly talk to us. Our skin wrinkles and grows strange barnacles. Minor ailments seem to make a greater impact. More chronic conditions like high blood pressure, atrial fib, diabetes are like a pandemic in our contemporaries, we fear being “infected” any day, and some of us are already victims. Lethal cancer, heart attacks or a stroke strike like a hand grenade in our midst – too close for comfort.
No wonder seniors are increasingly prone to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression even if they do not suffer physically, but particularly if they do. Self-medication with alcohol and subconscious abuse of prescribed medication such as sleeping aids, anti-anxiety drugs and particularly pain meds is growing in
our rapidly aging society.
Anxiety is excessive worry or unease that impacts daily functioning. Those of all ages with chronic health conditions may experience anxiety due to concerns about their health, fear of worsening symptoms or worries about the future. The uncertainty associated with chronic illnesses and the potential limitations they impose, the worry about the financial burden of medical treatments or the impact of their condition on their independence and social interactions may all combine to amplify such “dis- ease.”
Depression is also a disabling disorder with persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. Seniors with chronic health conditions may experience depression due to various factors such as the physical limitations imposed by their conditions, pain, loss of friends, loved ones and waning social interactions, resulting in a sense of isolation.
Some degree of cognitive impairment afflicts one of four seniors in the US, and in Orange County the incidence of dementia grew by 47% over the last two years, as the Orange County Register reported. Over 164,000 seniors in the OC are now so afflicted. Some turn to alcohol abuse as it is a more socially acceptable mask of the underlying process.
For all the above reasons, approximately one of six patients at Hoag’s addiction treatment services is a senior. It is essential to recognize the signs of these mental health disorders in seniors and seek appropriate support and treatment from healthcare professionals.
To address these issues, it is vital to establish a holistic approach to senior care. This may involve:
1. Medical support: Ensuring regular checkups, appropriate medication management, and treatment of chronic health conditions.
2. Mental health services: Access to mental health professionals who can provide therapy, counseling or medication management for depression and anxiety.
3. Social support: Encouraging social
interactions, participation in community activities and maintaining connections with loved ones.
4. Education and awareness: Providing information about the signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety and substance abuse, as well as the available resources for treatment and support.
5. Caregiver involvement: Involving caregivers and family members in the care process, providing them with resources and support to address the mental health needs of seniors.
6. Healthy coping strategies: Promoting alternative coping strategies such as relaxation techniques, exercise, hobbies and social engagement.
Drug abuse in seniors with chronic health conditions can occur for various reasons. Some seniors may misuse or abuse prescription medications, either by taking higher doses than prescribed or using them for non-medical purposes. This can be a result of seeking pain relief or trying to cope with emotional distress. Additionally, seniors may turn to substances such as alcohol or illicit drugs as a means of self-medication for their mental health issues. Substance abuse can worsen both physical and mental health conditions, leading to further complications.
To address this explosive societal and particularly local health crisis, Hoag’s Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute has created the Center for Integrated Brain Health, under the leadership of Dr. Aaron Ritter, a nationally recognized neurobehavioral psychiatrist who left the Ruvo Institute of the Cleveland Clinic. This Hoag center has a multi-disciplinary team addressing the complex needs of those afflicted in our community.
Remember, every individual is unique, and treatment approaches should be tailored to their specific needs. If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues, it is important to consult with healthcare professionals for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate support.
Sleep On It
SOME DECISIONS REQUIRE A TIME OUT IN ORDER TO MAKE THE PROPER CHOICE
BY ALEX CHAZEN
Last week, I drove down to San Diego to appear in Court for a Motion. Our side lost this Motion that we absolutely should have won, and it definitely left a poor taste in my mouth. You may be wondering, “Why on Earth is he writing about losing a Motion he should have won? Isn’t that embarrassing?” Admittedly, at first, I was embarrassed. I had to call my client and explain that while the law was on our side, the Judge ruled against us. I have done quite a bit of work for this client recently, but this was the first time where something hadn’t gone according to plan. I expected him to be upset – losing the Motion would end up costing quite a bit more money and require much more time to resolve the case. But instead, he understood that the judicial system doesn’t always do what we want, and asked for me to write up my analysis of the decision and send it to him the next day.
I was curious as to why he didn’t want the analysis immediately, but took a note of it, got in the car, and headed back to Orange County. As an aside, those portions of the 5 that drive right along the coast between here and San Diego are some of my favorite stretches of freeway to drive anywhere.
When I returned to my desk, I saw that while in the car, I had received an email from both my client contact and his boss. His boss had asked how the hearing went, and he explained to her that we lost, gave her my initial analysis of the decision, and told her that I would provide my analysis the next day. Now, being the type of person I am, I wanted to write the analysis while the decision was still fresh in my head – explain how wrong it was, and how to fight moving forward. So, I wrote out my analysis and just left it open overnight to send in the morning.
In the meantime, I worked on another
case, helped my wife feed our daughter when she came home from Junior Guards, had dinner with my family, put the kids to bed, and watched Love Island with my wife (my favorite guilty pleasure trashy television show). Something magical happened after we turned the TV turned off – I had forgotten all about the hearing.
The next morning, after the kids were off to camps and Junior Guards, I got a call from my client contact. He wanted to know if my analysis had changed, and how to move forward. Much calmer, and with a clearer head, I described our two options for moving forward with the case, made a recommendation, and promised to have it all to him in writing in about an hour.
After I hit send, I realized something that he had already known – the reason why he asked me to wait a day to provide the analysis. We are often so caught up in the here and now, particularly in a contentious fight, that we start to get tunnel vision. Rather than provide snap analysis, the client got a well-reasoned plan of attack moving forward with the case. Walking away before finishing a task – which is the opposite of how I typically like to work – was actually the right choice for this situation.
The old saying goes that you should “sleep on it” before making a big decision. But in 2009, a Dutch social scientist ran an experiment that found that our brains actually process information and catalog the events of the day better when we are unconscious. This means that when we wake, our thoughts are more in order, and a better decision can be made.
Now, I am not advocating wholesale procrastination here, but I think getting some rest, and putting more thought into how we all make decisions and move forward is likely to benefit ourselves, our clients, and our families.
Alex Chazen is a Partner with Lorber, Greenfield & Polito LLP. He can be reached at achazen@lorberlaw.com.
An Analysis of the S&P 500 Adjusted Earnings Yield
THE CASE OF THE DISAPPEARING EQUITY RISK PREMIUM
BY IVAN ILLÁN
There are a few topics that I could write about this month, including: a decades-low breadth of US stocks participating in the recent bull market; persistently stable labor market; plummeting existing home sales; and rapidly declining household savings balances. As interesting as all these are, there’s one capital markets indicator that begs some attention –the Equity Risk Premium (ERP).
If you’re not familiar with ERP, don’t worry. It’s a simple concept that attempts to quantify how much the stock market will outperform a risk-free debt investment, over the “longterm” (an unspecified future period). There are many formulas available to help derive what this figure represents, but for the purposes of this article I’m going to take a different approach. Instead of a set of complex formulas or derivations, I’d like to share my preferred method of using this metric when making asset allocation decisions.
Most folks are familiar with the Price-toEarnings (aka, PE) Ratio. In its most simple form, the PE Ratio takes the market value of a company’s share price and divides it by the company’s earnings per share. However, if you flip PE on its head, you get an even more useful perspective. P/E becomes E/P, or as it’s known in financial parlance – the Earnings Yield (EY) (i.e., earnings per share divided by a company’s share price). When you do this simple conversion, something quasi-magical happens. You are now able to evaluate whether a stock is more deserving of your hard-earned money than say, a risk-free bond offering only a yield for return. By equalizing the mode of evaluation, an EY that’s much higher than a risk-free bond yield (like a U.S. Treasury Rate) would indicate that stocks offer a better “premium” or additional return relative to a risk-free investment that you could allocate funds toward.
But why reference EY at all? Many studies have shown that EY is a good representation of the long-term real (or net of inflation) return for stocks. One such observation was made by my former colleague, Wharton finance professor Jeremy Siegel. I’ve taken this observation a bit further and combined it with Yale University economics professor Robert Shiller’s studies on using cyclically adjusted earnings to measure relative value of stocks, which essentially averages out earnings over the past ten years. Also, instead of using a 10-Year U.S. Treasury Bond as a proxy for risk-free debt, I’m referencing a 2-Year U.S. Treasury Yield. Over the past two decades there have been only three times when the S&P 500 Shiller Cyclically Adjusted Earnings Yield (S&P 500 CAEY) has been at or below the 2-Year Treasury Rate. These periods include, early2006 to late-2007, early-2019, and lastly about mid-2022 to now. In the two former periods,
recessions followed. Is this time different? The last time we saw this degree of vanishing ERP, meaning that the 2-Year Treasury Rate was at least 100 basis points higher than the S&P 500 CAEY was late 2007, just before the Great Financial Crisis of 2008 to 2009. As of June 30, 2023, the 2-Year Treasury was at 4.71% whereas the S&P 500 CAEY was at 3.38% – a differential well above 2007’s levels.
If you’re not sure why you own the stocks in your portfolio, this would be a very good time to revisit your rationale. If you have a long-term time horizon (greater than 10 years), where you know that you won’t have need to access any funds from your investment portfolio, I would not be too concerned. However, if there’s a high possibility of imposing a burden of withdrawal within the next five years, consider increasing your cash savings buffers or other short-term yielding instruments to ride out the paradigm shift that has already occurred in the capital markets.
WILLIAM POTTER/ SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Summer Salad
A SEASONAL TWIST ON THE CLASSIC CAESAR
BY LANA SILLS
Ithink of salads as works of art, each one an individual expression. So many factors make summer salads interesting and delicious. The layering of flavors, colors and textures are the beginning of a love of salads. And today, with the help of cello bags of healthy salad greens—from iceberg to chopped variations—you can create more imaginative salads. Let the season dictate your additions, from smoky grilled vegetables to hearty grains. Caesar Salad, the classic combination of romaine lettuce drizzled with a creamy dressing, was invented in Mexico, not Italy. For a twist, I am sharing my recipe filled with unexpected spicy Southwestern flavors.
Jazz up a bag of mixed greens with ripe olives, pepperoncini, red onion and feta cheese to create a scrumptious Greek salad. A super easy grapefruit, avocado and shrimp salad starts with a bag of Boston lettuce. For a salad in a sandwich, Pan Bagnat, whose name means “bathed bread,” is the classic street food of Nice; fill a crusty French baguette with canned light tuna, roasted peppers, cherry tomato halves, thinly sliced red onion, black olives and hard cooked sliced eggs, layer the ingredients on the open baguette and drizzle with dressing.
A spicy salmon bowl is my go-to with a spicy toasted sesame dressing. Another favorite of mine is a Frisée salad with pears, spiced walnuts, a flurry of blue cheese (it helps to freeze the cheese briefly first and use a microplane grater) and Port Wine vinaigrette. Watermelon salad with Serrano chiles and Cotija cheese is a luscious picnic or BBQ side dish.
For a shortcut dinner from the grill, buy a ready-made pizza crust, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and throw it on your BBQ to warm. Toss thinly sliced radicchio and arugula, halved baby tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, pickled red onion, olive oil and balsamic. Arrange the salad on top of the pizza crust and drape prosciutto over top.
From the Farmer’s Market to your table, bright refreshing salads make the most of the season. Paired with a summer sangria made with brandy and perfectly ripe strawberries and raspberries, campfire s’mores and affogatos, you’re guaranteed a wildly delicious summer.
SOUTHWESTERN CAESAR SALAD
Instead of a traditional Caesar, I replaced the anchovies and lemon juice with canned chipotle chiles and lime juice to balance the richness. Replacing the raw eggs with sour cream for the dressing’s base tames the chiles’ punch and adds a creamy consistency. Using the adobo sauce that the Chipotles are packed in to make the croutons gives the salad a smoky, garlicky garnish.
1 cup olive oil
2 teaspoons minced chipotle chiles in adobo plus one tablespoon adobo sauce
4 garlic cloves, minced
6 slices brioche bread, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
3 tablespoons lime juice
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
3 romaine hearts, torn into bite-sized pieces, about 12 cups
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Whisk 1/4 cup oil, adobo sauce and half of the garlic in a large bowl. Toss in bread cubes and season with salt and pepper. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake, shaking pan occasionally, until golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool completely.
For the dressing, whisk 1/4 cup Parmesan, sour cream, Worcestershire, mustard, chipotle, remaining garlic, in a bowl until smooth. Whisk in remaining oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss the romaine, dressing, remaining Parmesan in a large salad bowl. Toss in the croutons and serve. Serves 6.
AUGUS T P RO M OT I ON S
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AUGUS T P RO M OT I ON S
Balboa Bay Club Members receive standard discount plus an additional 10% off. Not combinable with other offers. 15% Off
All Sets and Denim
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Etienne Marcel Joseph Ribkoff & more!
Etienne Marcel Joseph Ribkoff & more!
Etienne Marcel Joseph Ribkoff & more!
Balboa Bay Club Members receive standard discount plus an additional 10% off. Not combinable with other offers. 15% Off
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Enjoy refreshing libations as you shop the latest summer styles and trends! Every Monday 3pm - 5pm
Enjoy refreshing libations as you shop the latest summer styles and trends!
Enjoy refreshing libations as you shop the latest summer styles and trends! Every Monday 3pm - 5pm
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Yachting Inspired Design by Barclay Butera
BY CHRISTINE PHILLIPS FOR BARCLAY BUTERA INTERIORS
You may recall when iconic West Coast designer Barclay Butera was commissioned by none other than RollsRoyce Motor Cars to design a bespoke Nautical Dawn to debut at Pebble Beach Concours d‘Elegance in 2016. It was that moment when Barclay established himself as THE quintessential designer for all thing luxury-nautical with his magnificent “Yacht on Wheels”. Since then, Butera has designed numerous spectacular projects showcasing this exact nautical
chic theme. Rich navy blue and crisp white evoke timeless, seaside inspirations…subtle shells, stripes and anchors round out the mix. And while Barclay has been fortunate to have these incredible oceanfront properties to work with, there is no question his signature coastal vibe has enhanced each and every home to an elevated level of glamour and comfort. Next up for Barclay? How about a custom yacht with Butera’s signature navy and white all-American twist? Ahoy Mate! For more information about
THE PERFECT SUMMER AMERICAN ADVENTURE
SEEING WYOMING… FROM YELLOWSTONE TO THE DEVIL’S TOWER
BY PATRICK O’DONNELL
Awhile back, the Bay Window ran my story about Jackson Hole and the Grand Teton National Park on our first stop of a 1,200-mile motor coach trip through Wyoming and parts of South Dakota. This time I’d like to talk about the second part of that trip and show you some of the wonders of this country’s first National Park, which celebrated its 150th anniversary last year, 1882-2022. It has been called “The Restless Giant” by the National Park Service. They say at the heart of Yellowstone National Park’s past, present and future is a
“SUPERVOLCANO.” It last erupted 631,000 years ago and we don’t want it to go off again for a very long time or at least until we are all living on another planet.
Heat from the eruptions still fuel the parks geysers, hot springs, fumaroles and mud pots. The center of that now collapsed volcano forms a 30 by 45-mile basin. The whole park spans 3,468 square miles. With an elevation of over 8,000 feet, it is one of our highest National Parks.
Our bus entered the south entrance of the park on a road that is closed between mid-November to mid-May, and followed what they call the
West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake. I had heard of the lake but had no idea of its size. It is 20 miles long and 14 miles wide and is the largest high elevation lake in North America, with 141 miles of shoreline. At places it is up to 400 feet deep and is about twice the size of Lake Tahoe.
On our way to Canyon Village, where our lodge was located, the guide stopped the bus for a look-see at the Mud Volcano and the Sulphur Caldron with its 180 degree turbulent waters that turned banks on the river bright yellow. Obviously, that’s probably how the park got its name. The guide really liked mud pots and
caldrons and for the next two days, we stopped at several. With the very heavy odor of sulfur, after the first three or four I’d had enough of that fun and pretty much stayed on the bus.
When we finally got to the lodge, there were a couple of buffalo munching on meager grass near the entrance. We were told not to bother them as they liked that spot and they wouldn’t bother us. However, I was a little disappointed in the room, as it reminded me more of an ordinary dormitory college room than an okay hotel. And the cafeteria food and service at this very large complex was at best ordinary.
But the views the next day from the upper and lower falls of the “Grand Canyon of Yellowstone” were terrific. Artist Point, an overlook on the south rim of the lower falls, made the most stunning photo of the entire trip. This is the second most photographed spot in the park.
Of course, you can’t leave the park without seeing the most photographed place – Old Faithful. This highly predictable geothermal
event occurs every 35-120 minutes and lasts up to five minutes in duration. We watched from the balcony of the Old Faithful Inn, which is where I would have preferred to stay. This grand old hotel is considered an example of the Golden Age of rustic resort architecture. It is the largest log hotel in the world and when it opened in 1904 it boasted electric lights and steam heat. It was the first of the great park lodges of the American West.
After a couple of days of roaming around this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we were on our way to Cody, Wyoming… we thought. As we left the parking lot, I noticed a big old buffalo, much larger than the ones we saw the day before, ambling down the highway in front us. He was in no hurry and at one point stopped in the middle of the road and seemed to challenge an oncoming camper. It made a funny picture before he finally gave up and lumbered into the grassy area.
When my wife and I travel, we especially enjoy finding fascinating places we had not heard of
before. About 100 miles from the park, our tour bus took us to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in the small city of Cody, Wyoming named for perhaps the most famous showman of the 19th Century. Cody took his troupe eight times to Europe beginning in 1887 for the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria. The center displayed a large mural commemorating that event.
It is really something that a small town of about 10,000 people can support a world-class place like this that includes five museums and a research library. It has more than 300,000 square feet of collections, artifacts and interactive displays. Included in the center is the Whitney Western Art Museum with one of the best collections of masterworks from Remington and Russell anywhere. The only trouble with tours of this sort is that sometimes you don’t have enough time allotted for something that is really good. The three hours they gave us was not near enough time to fully explore these world-class museums and have lunch at the same time.
After enjoying this little city that proclaimed itself as the “Rodeo Capital of the World,” we continued on 150 miles to Sheridan for the night. The next day, we stopped at Devil’s Tower National Monument and as it came into view, the theme from “Close Encounters of the third Kind” was played on the bus. Geologists have studied the formation since the late 1800s and still wonder how it was formed. Maybe Richard Dreyfuss has an idea?
This was the end of our Wyoming experience. But the best part of the long trip is yet to come including South Dakota’s, Deadwood City, the Badlands, some presidents and a very big Indian.
As always, podonnell@fullerton.edu
CROWN JEWEL OF NEWPORT HARBOR
A LOOK AT THE LEGENDARY HISTORY OF THE BALBOA BAY CLUB MARINA
BY MATT MORRISON
*This is the latest installment in a series of articles throughout 2023 celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Balboa Bay Club.
What was once a dilapidated stretch of beach in littleknown Orange County harboring old military scrap vessels on ramshackle piers, a few fishing boats and some random sailing ships, is now recognized around the world as one of the finest private marinas in the western hemisphere. From Duffy boats to super yachts, the harbor around the Balboa Bay Club & Resort is never without activity on the water. It’s a premier attraction of the property.
In the 75 years since it was established, the BBC has evolved into an elite destination for
travelers around the globe and many of them like to arrive by boat. Be advised, though, parking is at a premium. All but a handful of the 130 boats slips at the marina are reserved for BBC members, and there’s a long waiting list. There is a guest dock, however, to accommodate visitors on a short-term basis.
From the outset in 1947, founder Ken Kendall knew boating would be a key element in attracting elite membership. Kendall took pride in his own yacht, Verona, one of the first large ships to tie up at the marina. Later, he led a syndicate of club founders in purchasing the most impressive sailing ship on the harbor in the
1950s, the 161-foot schooner Goodwill. The gents turned it into an exclusive fishing club moored in Acapulco. A few years later, original member Ralph Larrabee bought the others out and in 1969, sadly, Goodwill was lost at sea with Larrabee and eight others going down with the ship. It was one of the very few maritime tragedies involving BBC members over the decades.
In the early years, all the impressive ships lined up alongside the BBC earned the collective nickname “Battleship Row.” In the 1970s, famed LA Times sports columnist Jim Murray, a frequent visitor at the Club, quipped that if, “Hitler had this fleet, he
would have won the war.”
The current facility took shape as part of the Club’s expansion and modernization program in 1963. It was designed to accommodate boats of all sizes, from the mega-yachts over 100 feet to those shifty little Duffys. Legacy lifetime BBC member Marshall Duffield, Jr. invented the quaint electric powered boats as a teenager in 1969 and created an industry with its epicenter right here on the Newport Harbor. Most of the floaters moored in the marina are somewhere in-between 20- to 80-foot pleasure craft or sport fishing power boats.
Soon, the larger vessels will have an easier time navigating the channel. The harbor was originally dredged for boat traffic by the Army Corps of Engineers back in the 1930s. Over the decades, sediment buildup has gradually filled the harbor bed, reducing the depth and making it more difficult for some of the bigger ships to enter and exit the waterway.
After years of political grappling with environmental concerns, the California
Coastal Commission approved a plan last year that will allow for the first comprehensive dredging (and its waste disposal) of Newport Harbor this century. Current BBC Harbor Master Troy Heidemann says it’s one of the most important decisions affecting the waterway in decades.
The law of supply and demand dictates that the Balboa Bay Club Marina will remain choice enclave for the fortunate ones who moor a boat there. With no room for expansion, the limit of 130 slips has been
reached and the waiting list for those hoping to tie up one day is getting longer, up to eight or ten years according to Heidemann. It depends on movement among the boating members, some who will eventually move on making way for those whose time has come.
Patience is a virtue. The rarity of availability, its first-class resort amenities, and keen marine security the BBC offers, ensures that this premier marina in California will remain a crown jewel of the waterway. Certainly, there’s never been a better home for “Battleship Row.”
