It was the Gala of the Century when Carnegie Hall celebrated the 50th anniversary of its “Concert of the Century” with a once-in-a-lifetime convening of musical all-stars on May 5.

Organized by famed violinist Isaac Stern, the original 1976 event brought together some of the world’s greatest musicians for a now-legendary “concert-celebration” that commemorated the anniversary of the Hall’s opening on May 5, 1891. Fifty years later—and 135 years after the opening of the Hall—a new lineup of Carnegie Hall icons came together to honor the Hall’s legacy, telling its story to a new generation.

Elizabeth Segerstrom of Newport Beach was the Gala Lead Chair for the black-tie evening. Robert F. Smith, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Carnegie Hall, shared “Elizabeth Segerstrom has been a dedicated supporter, champion, and friend of Carnegie Hall for almost two decades. We were so fortunate and grateful to have her lead this event tonight to carry on her late husband Henry’s legacy for our Hall. What we experience at Carnegie Hall—what so many have experienced here over the years—is the depth of expression, the connection to history, the nuance, the storytelling. It is not simply a feat of the technical; it is the triumph of the human spirit. The connection we feel in this hall reminds us of the importance of sharing moments that renew and inspire us. Through art, we develop a deeper understanding of our place in the universe and what it truly means to be human. That is the power of this institution, and that is why the support in this room matters so profoundly for generations to come.”

Gala Chairs included Anya Gillinson, Ila and Dinesh Paliwal, and Hope and Robert F. Smith. Gala Co-Chairs were Marco Argenti and Nanyan Li, Mercedes T. Bass, Sandra Segerstrom Daniels, and Joan and Sanford I. Weill, Weill Family Foundation.

South Coast Plaza was the Gala Sponsor.

The gala evening benefited Carnegie Hall’s artistic, education, and social impact programs and included a pre-concert cocktail party in Carnegie Hall’s Rohatyn Room and post-concert dinner at the Waldorf Astoria New York.

Among the Orange County VIPs who travelled to New York to attend the event were Jane Fujishige Yada; Britt Meyer; Jaynine Warner; Casey Reitz, President and CEO of Segerstrom Center for the Arts; Tommy Phillips, President and Artistic Director of the Philharmonic Society of Orange County; Chase McLaughlin, Director, South Coast Plaza Towers; and Tenley Zinke, Executive Director of Marketing, South Coast Plaza.

The gala raised $3.5 million in support of Carnegie Hall’s artistic, education and social impact programs.

The 600 guests included Katie Holmes, Liev Schreiber and Taylor Neisen, Constance Wu, Victoria and Michael Imperioli, Candace Bushnell, Lou Diamond Phillips, Colleen and Gary Rein, Maria Manetti Shrem, Daniil Simkin, Dana and Robert Kraft, Barbara Tober, Marilyn Minter, Famke Janssen, Ellen Burstyn, Kehinde Wiley, and more.

Conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin led the NYO-USA All-Stars, an ensemble of distinguished alumni from Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America, who are now outstanding young professionals in the music field.

The program opened with the overture to Leonard Bernstein’s “Candide,” premiered at the Hall in 1957 by the New York Philharmonic under the composer’s baton. It continued with the third movement of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6—honoring the composer who led Carnegie Hall’s inaugural concert in 1891—and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Laudate Dominum, featuring soprano Renée Fleming, also the evening’s host, with the orchestra and the Oratorio Society of New York, the same chorus for which Carnegie Hall was originally designed and built.

Highlights of this special program also included mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato joining pianist Emanuel Ax for two of Gustav Mahler’s Rückert-Lieder; the third movement of Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 with pianist Lang Lang; mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard singing Non più mesta accanto al fuoco from Rossini’s La Cenerentola; and the third movement of Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F with pianist Daniil Trifonov.

Vocalist Audra McDonald partnered with longtime music director Andy Einhorn for songs by Ellington and Gershwin. Vocalist and pianist Michael Feinstein collaborated with the orchestra on songs by Michel Legrand and Arthur Schwartz. The program also featured Valerie Coleman’s “Seven O’Clock Shout” and Bernstein’s inspiring “Make Our Garden Grow” from “Candide.”

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Court Appointed Special Advocates of Orange County (CASA OC) welcomed more than 250 supporters, philanthropists, community leaders, and advocates to its annual CASA Celebration Gala on Saturday, May 16, at Pendry Newport Beach.

Inspired by The Beatles, and a call for “A Little Help From Our Friends,” the evening netted more than $1.325 million in support of CASA OC’s mission to provide trained volunteer advocates for children in Orange County who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment.

Chaired by Newport Beach resident Barry McManus and Courtney Thom, the gala combined luxury philanthropy with heartfelt storytelling, transforming the Pendry ballroom into an immersive throwback to the 1960s  produced by Elite OC Productions, with colorful florals by Paul Fenner Floral Design.

Guests began the evening with a cocktail reception and silent auction before participating in an exciting live auction led by returning auctioneer Zack Krone. Highlighted packages included a luxury Four Seasons Resort Cabo Del Sol villa experience in Cabo San Lucas, an exclusive Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix hospitality package presented by Fletcher Jones Automotive Group, and an unforgettable Big Sky, Montana getaway featuring a stay at Montage Big Sky.

Throughout the evening, CASA OC leaders and advocates shared powerful reminders of the life-changing impact a consistent adult provides for a child navigating the foster care system.

“CASA OC fills critical gaps in a system that was never designed to meet every emotional, developmental, and relational need for children in foster care,” said Regan Dean Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of CASA OC. “Because while systems provide services, people and relationships change lives. A volunteer who listens, follows through, and reminds a child that they matter, can completely change the trajectory of a young person’s future.”

Phillips also shared that CASA OC currently serves more than half of the approximately 3,000 youth in foster care in Orange County through the support of 742 trained CASA volunteers, while nearly 300 children are still waiting to be matched with an advocate.

The evening honored several extraordinary supporters whose leadership and philanthropy have significantly advanced CASA OC’s mission:

• Outstanding Foundation: The Andi Collins Foundation
• Outstanding Corporation: Manly, Stewart, Finaldi & Thom
• Children’s Champion Award: The Wittkop Family

A particularly moving moment of the evening came with the recognition of Ruth Cochran as CASA OC’s 2026 Advocate of the Year. During her remarks, Cochran reflected on the profound responsibility and privilege of serving children in foster care through CASA.

“The biggest difference between me and the youth I’ve been matched with through CASA isn’t potential or worth. It’s simply circumstance,” said Cochran. “Every child deserves someone who won’t give up on them. One consistent adult really can change the trajectory of a child’s life.”

Cochran shared stories from her advocacy work, describing how being a trusted and dependable presence for youth in foster care can help children find stability, healing, and hope during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

The evening’s success was made possible through the generosity of sponsors, underwriters, donors, and supporters throughout Orange County’s philanthropic community.

Through events like CASA Celebration, CASA OC continues its mission of recruiting, training, and supporting volunteer advocates who provide critical support and consistent adult relationships for children navigating the foster care and juvenile justice systems.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Orange County

Please visit www.casaoc.org to learn more.

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The Childhelp Orange County Chapter raised over $625,000 at the 44th annual Childhelp Rich Saul Memorial Golf Classic held at the Newport Beach Country Club on Monday, May 18.

This year marked the 14^th anniversary to bear the name of LA Rams All Pro Center, Rich Saul. Tournament coordinator Eileen Saul, Assistant Coordinators Tracy Abel and Julie Thornton-Adams along with Co-Chairs, Debra Violette and Cathie Caporaso, did a fabulous job with another sold out event.

This event has raised more than eight million dollars in the past 19 years since the inception of the Corporate Sponsor Committee, which consists of prominent leaders in our community.

The day opened with a presentation by the American Legion Post #291 Color Guard during a stirring performance of “God Bless America” by actor and singer John O’Hurley to honor America’s 250th anniversary.

Highlights were the presence of former teammates of Rich Saul: former Los Angeles Rams players Vince Ferragamo and Jackie Slater. The Rams Cheerleaders were on hand for photo ops.

Rich Saul Heart and Soul recipients were Pam and Bud Pharris for their long-time support and service to Childhelp and their deep commitment to protecting and healing children.

Following the tournament, golfers and additional guests gathered for an evening reception on the terrace overlooking the golf course, where they enjoyed cocktails, a silent auction, and a raffle. The evening continued with a seated dinner, followed by a lively live auction and paddle raise to benefit the children Childhelp serves.

Platinum Title Sponsors were Jacquie and Michael Casey. Taking home first place trophies were nth foursome of Garrett Abel, Mike Abel, Joe Jones, and David Stark.

Childhelp is proud to report that for each dollar expended, 72 cents are invested into serving the children in need of program services, which include three Group Homes in Costa Mesa

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New Directions for Women held its 18th annual Circle of Life Brunch on May 7 at the Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, raising approximately $225,000 for the Costa Mesa-based nonprofit.

The organization’s signature event, the Circle of Life Brunch was attended by over 260 guests to support the transformation of lives of women and families affected by addiction.

“Women’s facilities are at risk of disappearing because of the rising cost of care. We as a community have a necessary fight on our hands to ensure that women seeking recovery from addiction have a place to come home to themselves.” said New Directions Executive Director, Heather Black-Coyne.

The elegant morning began with a reception featuring networking and silent auction opportunities featuring selections from Ballard& Ballard Jewelry, Micky’s Jewelry Studio and Julie Ulstrap Family Fine Art Photography.

Guests then gathered in the ballroom, where Heather Schwartz, New Directions Board Member, opened the program with a brief guided meditation. Executive Director Black-Coyne welcomed attendees before guests enjoyed an elevated brunch.

New Directions for Women board member Barbara Wiggs-Nelson presented the Legacy Award to the late Fred Turner, recognized posthumously. A former New Directions for Women board member, Fred had achieved over 50 years of sobriety and remained a beacon of light for those around him with remarkable strength and grace. Daughters Elizabeth and Savanah accepted the award on behalf of the family.

Emcee and auctioneer Zack Krone then took the stage to start the live auction featuring a 14-karat morganite and diamond pendant donated by Ballard & Ballard Fine Jewelers, a Newport Beach experience with gift certificates to the Balboa Bay Resort and Fashion Island, and the grand finale: a Trip to Italy.

After a powerful presentation by a former New Directions client, a moving video was shown, followed by a fund-a-need and paddle drop.

The paddle raise began with an inspiring show of generosity as three major contributors each donated $25,000, which sponsors one month of recovery services at New Directions for Women. Momentum continued to build as a matching donor pledged to match up to five $5,000 contributions, helping drive an additional $55,000 in support of New Directions’ mission.

The final Legacy Award was then presented to Dotty Dozal by longtime supporter Devon Martin. Dotty served at Hoag Hospital for close to 30 years as a CADC Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor and continued in a variety of volunteer roles following her retirement. Dotty is known for her kindness and impact on helping individuals and families in recovery. Dotty was acknowledged with a standing ovation.

Major support was provided by Devon Martin, Katherine and Howard Bland and Ronnie Cancellieri, Cari Peets, Russel Tyner, Sydney Holland, Teresa Young, Sonja Radach, Debbie McMullen, and David Collins.

Founded in 1977, New Directions for Women provides gender-specific addiction treatment services that are family-centered promoting healthy parenting, preventing domestic violence, and assisting in family reunification. NDFW’s addiction treatment program was created in response to a shortage of affordable and accessible rehabilitation treatment services for women suffering from alcoholism, substance use disorder and other related issues.

Since its inception, NDFW has served over 7,000 women and nearly 700 children while more than 200 babies have been born to mothers completing their comprehensive on-site program.

For more information, visit www.newdirectionsforwomen.org.

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With the unwavering support of women who came to play pickleball for a great cause and the generous sponsors devoted to keeping it thriving year after year, KidWorks’ Play for a Purpose Women’s Pickleball Event on April 23 netted over $100,000.

The annual event was held at The Tennis & Pickleball Club at Newport Beach Country Club. Over the last few years, the nonprofit’s pickleball event has raised half a million dollars in support of KidWorks’ college success programs

All funds raised from the event directly benefit KidWorks students.

The event featured round robin-style play, lunch and wine, an awards ceremony, and many opportunity prizes, along with a brief program that included inspirational messages from Monse, a student at KidWorks recently renovated Bishop Manor (KBM) spoke center, and the current Site Director Eva Ocha, who was once a student there.

KidWorks Board Chair Emily Mandrup, founder of ECM Management, talked about the redevelopment process for the spoke center including recruiting local companies that together donated more than $200,000 in services and materials.

The highly successful pickleball fundraising initiative is the brainchild of KidWorks Women (KWW). The women’s volunteer auxiliary supports the important and transformative work of KidWorks as it provides students from Orange County’s most overlooked neighborhoods with holistic programs and experiences to become leaders both in and out of the classroom.

KidWorks college and career programs place students on a direct path towards college success and include its College Apps Academyand Campus Crash, along with engagement with KidWorks college counselors and care packages for its college students.

“We are thankful for the generous support of donors who are helping  to ensure that our deserving students will continue to benefit from robust college and career programs,” said KidWorks CEO and Executive Director David Benavides.

“Every year, hundreds of students profit from robust personal development, leadership training, and college and career readiness programs,” added Benavides. “From Pre-K to B.A., KidWorks walks alongside first-generation students and their families as they continue on their journey toward college and career success.”

The 2026 event committee members from Newport Beach were co-chairs Debbie Trammell and Denny McSweeny, along with Holly Anderson, Wendy Hafer Cox, Beth Hallett,  Lori Junkins, Susie Luer, Leonie Lumpkin, Mollie Rosing, Sharon Roy, Kyle Team (Advisory Council chair), and Kathy Ursini.

Other event committee members are Janet DiChiro, Nancy Braden, Susan Machado, and Corinne Morgenstern, all of Corona del Mar, along with Kim Carpenter of Dana Point, and Leslie Ammerman of Laguna Beach.

KidWorks goes the extra mile for the community, creating an environment for youth to unleash their potential with mentorship and leadership development resources for the entire family. Its diverse programs, coupled with intentional guidance, fuel internal growth and set KidWorks students up for a meaningful and fulfilling future and career. For over 10 years, 100 percent of KidWorks seniors have graduated high school on time and continued to higher education.

Women interested in learning more about KWW are invited to contact KidWorks Director of Philanthropy Lisa Gels at: lisa.gels@kidworksoc.org or (714) 834-9400 x126.

To learn more about KidWorks, please visit www.kidworksoc.org.

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For the past several years, the onsite restaurant at Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar was 608 Dahlia, the creation of Chef Jessica Roy, one of the most creative chefs in Orange County. Open mainly for lunch and special events, 608 Dahlia was always packed with delighted diners who savored Chef Roy’s garden-to-table dishes.

Count me among those happy diners. In addition to enjoying lunches at 608 Dahlia, Chef Roy created a special birthday party menu for me and nine guests that we still talk about.

As they say, all good things must come to an end. Chef Roy’s lease ended last October, which coincided with planned renovations at Sherman Library & Gardens. However, Chef Roy announced that she is moving north to Sunset Beach, where her new restaurant, 608 Sunset, is scheduled to open this spring.

So what’s coming to replace 608 Dahlia?

Sherman Library & Gardens Executive Director Scott LeFleur has announced that the new restaurant at Sherman Gardens set to open next year will be called Hazeltine’s and will be managed by Damian Orozco, the owner of the beloved and historic Tea House on Los Rios in San Juan Capistrano.

According to LeFleur, Hazeltine’s will occupy a prime Pacific Coast Highway-facing space and promises to be a fusion of extraordinary farm-to-table offerings with an expanded operating schedule.

The restaurant’s Hazeltine’s moniker comes from Sherman Library & Gardens’ namesake, Moses Hazeltine Sherman, and specifically for his daughter whose name was Hazeltine.

“Damian Orozco was selected as the operator of Hazeltine’s, Sherman’s new restaurant, because of his commitment to sustainability, community involvement and forging meaningful connections between his restaurant and its patrons, which is exactly what we were looking for,” said Kirstie Acevedo, President of M.H. Sherman Company.  “Damian’s iconic Tea House on Los Rios is a big draw from all over Southern California because of his hospitality and amazing food. Hazeltine’s and Sherman will together create an unforgettable guest experience!”

According to information from Sherman Library & Gardens, the inspiration for the look, tone and feel of the restaurant came from the trove of photos and correspondence between Moses Hazeltine Sherman and his daughter Hazeltine.

The restaurant’s construction and décor embody the concept of “Sherman Funk,” which is an eclectic blend of Spanish, Mediterranean and non-traditional architectural elements to create unique spaces.

Moving the restaurant from its former restricted location to Pacific Coast Highway in a reconstructed building takes Sherman back to its roots.

According to Sherman Library, in the early days of Sherman Gardens, the Junior League of Newport Beach would serve light lunches to members in the Tea Garden through a window that was in the former visitor center and garden shop. Now that space will be entirely reconstructed into a gorgeous two-story structure that will house the restaurant with an entrance from Pacific Coast Highway and will overlook the fully refurbished Tea Garden.

“Moving the restaurant was the key to unlocking a vital education space for expanded classes, lectures, and field trips so Sherman can better fulfill its mission,” said LaFleur. “The restaurant will be open for late breakfast, lunch and dinner, and will include a full-service bar. Damian’s crew will be able to provide catering services for the many special events Sherman holds and our guests eagerly look forward to.”

In anticipation of the restaurant’s opening, Sherman will be hosting Hazeltine’s Afternoon Tea Experience for patrons to enjoy and have a sample of the future restaurant in an afternoon high tea setting.

The HAT experience will be held on:

June 14, July 12 and August 16: A tea experience while enjoying the fabulous larger-than-life Dog Days of Sherman mosaic sculpture art installation.

September 13: Grandparent’s Day and secondary mosaic art installation.

October 18: Harvest Tea theme to enjoy sumptuous seasonal décor.

Reservations are available on the Sherman Library & Gardens website at www.TheSherman.org.

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CureDuchenne, a global nonprofit based in Newport Beach committed to finding and funding a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, has appointed Lidia Gardner, PhD, EMBA, as its new Vice President of Clinical and Medical Affairs.

Dr. Gardner brings more than 15 years of experience spanning clinical strategy, patient advocacy, evidence generation, medical education, and global scientific leadership in neuromuscular and neuroimmunology diseases.

Dr. Gardner most recently served as Senior Medical Director, Global Medical Affairs – Neurology & Immunology at EMD Serono, a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. In that role, she led global medical strategy for neuroimmunology programs and collaborated across clinical development, regulatory, real-world evidence, and commercial teams.

Prior to joining EMD Serono, she worked in Medical Affairs and clinical development at Novartis, overseeing spinal muscular atrophy and other clinical trials. Earlier in her career, Dr. Gardner served as an Associate Professor of Neurology at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, where she built and led a translational research program focused on neuroinflammatory and neuromuscular diseases.

As Vice President of Clinical and Medical Affairs, Dr. Gardner will provide strategic medical leadership across CureDuchenne’s research, education, and patient care initiatives. She will work closely alongside CureDuchenne’s Chief Medical Advisor, Brenda Wong, MD, an internationally recognized Duchenne expert, to help advance standards of care, strengthen educational resources, and accelerate therapeutic development for individuals and families affected by Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy. Dr.

Gardner will also serve as a key spokesperson for CureDuchenne within the medical and scientific communities and help drive strategic partnerships that support the organization’s mission and long-term impact.

“Lidia brings an exceptional combination of scientific expertise and deep commitment to patient-centered care,” said Debra Miller, founder and CEO of CureDuchenne. “Her experience building strong relationships across industry, advocacy, and clinical communities will be instrumental as we continue accelerating research, advancing standards of care, and ensuring families have access to trusted education and support. Lidia understands the urgency facing our community and shares our commitment to driving meaningful progress for everyone affected by Duchenne.”

“I am honored to join CureDuchenne and contribute to an organization that has played such a transformative role in advancing research and care for the Duchenne community,” said Dr. Gardner. “I look forward to partnering with families, clinicians, researchers, and industry leaders to help accelerate therapies, strengthen education and support programs, and continue building momentum toward a future where every individual with Duchenne has access to better care and more treatment options.”

CureDuchenne was created with one goal: to find and fund a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, one of the most common and severe forms of muscular dystrophy. Today, CureDuchenne is recognized as a global leader in research, patient care, and innovation for improving and extending the lives of those with Duchenne. CureDuchenne’s innovative venture philanthropy model has advanced transformative treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, investing more than $27 million in early-stage research that helped move 19 programs into human clinical trials.

For more information, visit www.cureduchenne.org.

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Every month Salt & Straw, the popular ice cream purveyors with a store in Newport Beach, release a limited time edition of crazy concoctions that are often surprising in their ability to combine unique flavors into satisfying frozen treats.

Their current monthly flavor series is something a little different.
According to Salt & Straw, they are teaming up with some of the country’s most celebrated chefs to churn their signature flavors into five decadent scoops.

Dubbed “The Chef Series,” the new flavors are available through June 25. They feature ice creams from Tyler Malek (co-founder and head ice cream maker of Salt & Straw), in collaboration with noted chefs that highlight flavors and techniques that made them famous.

Flavors in The Chef Series include:

• Cheesecake with Salted Yuzu Curd: made in collaboration with Seattle based, James Beard Award winning chef Brady Ishiwata Williams (Tomo, Canlis), this flavor features salted vanilla ice cream studded with fluffy hunks of vanilla bean Japanese soufflé cheesecake, tangy yuzu curd and shards of yuzu white chocolate stracciatella.
• Hong Kong Milk Tea with Toasted White Chocolate: made in collaboration with Los Angeles based chef Mei Lin (owner of Daybird and 88 Club and competitor and judge of Tournament of Champions), this flavor features rich, aromatic vanilla and black tea ice cream swirled with custardy condensed milk and finished with toasted white chocolate feuilletine cookie crumbles.
• Chocolate Caramel Smoked Budino: made in collaboration with Miami based chefs Alex Meyer and Luciana Giangrandi behind the Michelin starred Boie De and Walrus Rodeo , this flavor features velvety chocolate olive oil custard flecked with smoky-sweet caramel candied hazelnuts and is swirled with an indulgent sea salt caramel drizzle.
• Starling Sweet Potato Buckwheat Crumble: From Dan Barber, iconic chef of Blue Hill at Stone Barns in Upstate New York and co-founder of Row 7, this flavor features starling sweet potato ice cream, sweet potato miso swirl, and sprouted buckwheat Florentine crumble.
• Caramelized Plantain with Spicy Pecan Toffee (v): From James Beard Award Winning Chef Gregory Gourdet (Kann in Portland, Maison Pasarelle in New York), this flavor features creamy brown sugar spiced plantain ice cream layered with pockets of caramelized plantains, habanero pecan brittle and pieces of tender almond-plantain cake.

The Newport Beach location is at 2001 Westcliff Dr. next to Olea Restaurant. It is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Visit www.SaltandStraw.com for more information.

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The Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary with events and activities open to the public at the Balboa Yacht Club on Saturday, June 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hosted by the Club and supported by the City of Newport Beach, Visit Newport Beach, and additional community sponsors, the event highlights the craftsmanship, design, and maritime heritage of classic wooden boats.

The Wooden Boat Festival offers a rare opportunity for the public to experience a private waterfront venue while viewing a curated collection of 40 wooden-hull vessels. The Concours d’Elegance-style display will feature a range of classic powerboats, sailboats, and custom wooden craft, many of which have been carefully restored or preserved by their owners.

In addition to simply viewing and enjoying the beauty of these boats, visitors will be able to walk the docks, speak with boat owners and builders, and, if one really wants to dig in, learn more about traditional construction methods, materials, and ongoing restoration efforts that help keep these vessels beautiful and on the water.

The featured vessel for the 2026 festival is the Tall Ship Spirit of Dana Point, operated by the Ocean Institute of Dana Point. This replica of a 1770s privateer schooner measuring approximately 118 feet overall represents the design and function of historic coastal trading and patrol vessels used during the Revolutionary War.

The ship was originally constructed in Newport Beach when the Tall Ship was known as the Pilgrim of Newport. Its appearance at the festival welcomes the ship back to her original home in Newport Harbor for all to enjoy and reminisce and reflects the region’s long-standing relationship with maritime education and shipbuilding. She will be open to the public during the festival for boarding and docent-led tours.

In addition to the dockside exhibits, the festival will offer 20-minute harbor cruises in gondolas, live music, maritime education displays, community and vendor booths, and opportunities to learn about local boating and coastal programs. A variety of food and beverage options will be available for purchase.

Family participation is a central part of the event. Children’s programming will include hands-on activities such as toy boat building and interactive learning stations designed to introduce younger visitors to basic boating and marine concepts. The event is designed to appeal to both boating enthusiasts and community members looking for a waterfront family outing.

Admission is $10 per person. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free. Gondola rides will be ticketed the day of the event at $20 per person. Parking will be available off-site with a complimentary shuttle service to the Club. Additional event details, including schedules, transportation information, and participating exhibitors, can be found at www.newportbeachwoodenboatfestival.com.

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How has Newport Center evolved into the Mixed-Use Center it is today? Has it fulfilled the vision of the planners?

Come hear Michael Stockstill, the author of “Transforming the Irvine Ranch” and the recently released “Irvine Ranch Fulfilling the Vision 1977-2025” discuss the planning, development and future of Newport Center, from the Boy Scout Jamboree in 1953 to the recently approved Edwards Cinema site redevelopment.

This Speak Up Newport meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 10, at the Civic Center Community Room, 100 Civic Center Dr. Reception hosted by The Bungalow Restaurant is at 5:15 p.m. Program is 6 to 7 p.m. On-site production provided by Visit Newport Beach. No charge to attend the meeting.

The Community Room is on the right (directly across from City Council Chambers) when you enter the complex on Civic Center Drive. Parking is available in the Parking Structure and in the parking lot adjacent to the structure.

The meeting will be simulcast on Zoom. Visit www.speakupnewport.com for meeting details and to register for the Zoom webinar.

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