The Newport Beach Film Festival is continually seeking ways to create innovative programming. The Newport Beach TV Festival, which presented its second annual festival last June, is one prime example of expanding into another visual medium.

Now, in association with PBS SoCal, the Newport Beach Film Festival has launched “The Process Unlocked,” a new television conversation series hosted by three-time Emmy winner Jenelle Riley.

The inaugural event took place on September 19 at the new Witte Hall in Newport Beach. The first guest of “The Process Unlocked” was four-time Academy Award nominee Willem Dafoe.

According to information from the Newport Beach Film Festival, “The Process Unlocked” offers something increasingly rare: an opportunity to slow down and take an in-depth look at the artistic process. While the series provides an engaging overview of an artist’s career, each conversation goes deeper, examining the specific moments, choices, and creative instincts behind the work. An actor may reveal how they prepared for a particular scene, a director may discuss how they envisioned an ideal shot, or a writer may break down the creative thinking that goes into crafting a story.

“I often hear about how people miss the days of long-form, in-depth conversations with artists that focus on the craft. I’m thrilled to be bringing that back to television screens and cannot imagine better partners than the Newport Beach Film Festival and PBS SoCal — two institutions that have been responsible for some of my greatest career highlights,” says Jenelle Riley, who has moderated more than 200 career conversations with Oscar winners, Broadway stars, and best-selling authors.

Having made more than 150 films in his legendary career, Willem Dafoe is internationally respected for bringing versatility and boldness to some of the most iconic films of our time. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with many of the most influential directors in modern cinema. He has received four Academy Award nominations—for “Platoon,” “Shadow of the Vampire,” “The Florida Project,” and “At Eternity’s Gate”—along with numerous other major critical and international honors.

Newport Beach Film Festival President and CEO Gregg Schwenk welcomed the sold-out audience to Witte Hall, noting that this is one of the first major events for Witte Hall.

Please tell your friends about tonight. Please tell your friends about the Newport Beach Film Festival. It is put on by the community for the community,” Schwenk told the audience. “Over 27 years of running the festival, so many people think it must be only for the industry. We get a lot of industry. But in everything we do, we try to make everyone feel like a VIP and a celebrity. So if you like tonight, if you like the idea of listening to people behind the scenes, probably about 90 to 95 percent of our films, shorts and features in the Newport Beach Film Festival running October 15 through 22 have someone either in front of or behind the camera to share their insights with you after the screening. We take the passive experience of going to the movies and make it active at the Newport Beach Film Festival.”

Schwenk thanked the evening’s underwriter, Big Newport Studios, and after a short film highlighting the Newport Beach Film Festival, host Jenelle Riley was introduced.

“This show is designed to offer a deep dive into the craft of artists, and when it comes to acting, there is literally no one more prolific, daring, and watchable than Willem Dafoe,” said Riley. “He’s the true definition of an actor’s actor. He’s been delivering fantastic performances on stage and screen. He cannot be pinned down by any medium or genre. If you want to talk about rage, this is someone who has played everything from the original Vampire to Jesus Christ. He can literally play anything. I am so honored, humbled, and honestly, a little intimidated, to welcome Willem Dafoe.”

During their conversation, Dafoe talked about growing up and discovering acting, his film roles, directors he has worked with during his career and what he learned from them, and his process in approaching each role.

Dafoe proved to be charming, earnest, animated, and captivating as he addressed the audience and explored the many facets of being an actor. The Film Festival could not have chosen a more perfect guest for the inaugural “The Process Unlocked,” as Dafoe did indeed unlock his process.

“PBS SoCal is deeply committed to showcasing stories that provide more context to our viewers and depth of understanding. “The Process Unlocked” will offer audiences a chance to take part in in-depth conversations with some of the greatest performers of our time. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the Newport Beach Film Festival and with Jenelle Riley,” said Tamara Gould, Chief Content Officer of PBS SoCal, in a statement.

For more information on the Newport Beach Film Festival, which starts October 15, visit www.newportbeachfilmfest.com.

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Breathe in. Breathe out. Now experience “Wild Child,” created by The Breathe Project.

As noted in the Laguna Playhouse program for “Wild Child,” which runs through October 4, The Breathe Project is an independent creative studio developing original stories and intellectual properties across theatre, music, visual narrative and other forms of storytelling.

Founded by Denise Vohra, who also serves as creator and lead producer of “Wild Child,” Breathe brings together artists and collaborators across disciplines to explore how a single story can live beyond one medium—creating interconnected worlds that invite audiences to discover characters, ideas and experiences from different perspectives.

“Wild Child” certainly does just that. The Laguna Playhouse describes the show as a contemporary, pop-driven musical about connection, belonging, and the transformative power of the natural world. Set against the backdrop of a wilderness therapy program in Northern Utah, “Wild Child” tells the story of an unlikely friendship that develops between two troubled teens, Rina and Darin, who are forced out of their digital-age comfort zones and into the great outdoors. They are joined by several more teens who each have a story to tell.

That Laguna Playhouse and The Breathe Project would undertake the challenges of creating a new musical is commendable, especially when the result is as fascinating as this production of “Wild Child.”

The first thing audiences see when they take their seats is the dazzling set. Wood beams are everywhere on the large stage, and they appropriately evoke a woodsy setting, where most of the play’s actions take place.

The story starts with Rina and Darin, teens with issues who are sent by their parents to a camp known as “Wild Child.” There they meet four other teens who were also sent to “Wild Child” to sort out their lives. Everyone at first complains about being there, but as they are led on daily 10-mile treks by a pair of counselors who also have stories to tell, the teens realize through their experiences, including journaling, group therapy, and letters from home, that maybe they have some growing up to do.

While at the camp, Rina and Darin discover they had unknowingly met online while playing a video game. They each have an avatar: Roses for Rina and Kiton for Darin. Those avatars – dressed in their video game garb – pop in and out of the story whenever the characters need them.

The songs are mainly up-tempo pop tunes that help drive the narrative and establish character traits. The earnest cast delivers the songs with aplomb, often while moving about the stage with choreography that fits the moment.

There are several subplots within “Wild Child” with multiple narratives and character conflicts, so audiences need to pay attention as the stories unfold.

As a new musical, most of the show works very well, though some plot resolutions are wrapped up a little too neatly. It is an ambitious play, with multiple lessons and multiple rewards.

For tickets, visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

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There are two astounding milestones associated with South Coast Repertory’s staging of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s musical “Into the Woods,” which opened September 18 and runs through October 18.

First, “Into the Woods” launches SCR’s 63^rd season—has it really been that long since SCR founders Martin Benson and David Emmes launched their troupe?

Second, has it been 40 years since “Into the Woods” premiered in December 1986 at The Old Globe in San Diego before opening on Broadway the following November?

I was lucky to have attended a special “Into the Woods” reunion at Segerstrom Center in 2014, with creators Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine on stage discussing “Into the Woods,” joined by original Broadway cast members (including Bernadette Peters) who both sang and talked about their experiences in the show.

That was a memorable evening. So is the production of “Into the Woods” at SCR.

First, a disclaimer. Sondheim does have distractors. Some traditional musical theater aficionados don’t get his distinctive style, which admittedly can be perceived as, well, nontraditional.

And then there are the rest of us, who relish Sondheim’s idiosyncratic style.

As SCR Artistic Director David Ivers has noted, “’Into the Woods’ is an astonishing musical—theatrical, magical, haunting and transportive. Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine weave together complex tales we think we know and dare to ask ‘what comes after happily ever after?’ Featuring a glorious multi-layered score, it’s a feast for the senses and a loving reminder of why Sondheim occupies a singular place at the top of our American composers.”

SCR’s production of “Into the Woods” does not feel like it is of a time, but rather for our time. The lessons and morals inherent to “Into the Woods” are as relevant as ever, and as clever and fun.

The plot: When the Baker and his wife venture into the forest to break a witch’s curse, they encounter Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood and Jack (of beanstalk fame)—and familiar tales take on clever new lives. But be careful what you wish for, because “happily ever after” is never the whole story.

Sondheim and Lapine drew on the plots of several Brothers Grimm fairy tales. The main characters are taken from “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Rapunzel,” and “Cinderella,” with several others added for good measure. Using those tales as a starting point, Sondheim and Lapine explore the consequences of the characters’ actions and desires.

There are multiple themes at play in “Into the Woods,” including morality, desire, and what can happen when you get your wish.

The SCR production has a simple yet lovely set, with an on-stage turntable that easily changes the setting when needed. The staging includes well-designed choreography that is both effortless and purposeful.

The cast is superb, with wonderful voices and actors who understand the nuances of Sondheim’s music and lyrics. Enunciation is key to many Sondheim songs (“Getting Married Today” from “Company” can be particularly challenging), and the SCR cast makes sure their every word is heard.

“Into the Woods” is at once humorous, poignant, thoughtful and even tragic. Unlike most fairy tales, there is not always a happy ending, but there is a satisfying one.

Guided by director Peter Rothstein, SCR’s memorable production of “Into the Woods” shows why the musical is still as remarkable and relevant as it was 40 years ago.

In her statement about the show, SCR’s Managing Director Suzanne Appel noted that “Our fairy tale heroes of ‘Into the Woods’ begin the story each on a quest for their own happiness. But as our incredible director Peter Rothstein pointed out at first rehearsal, the great Steven Sondheim once said, ‘A folktale without a moral is merely a whimsy.’”

Morals abound in “Into the Woods.” You will leave the theater humming one of Sondheim’s songs while ruminating on the lessons you learned while in the woods.

“Into the Woods” runs through October 18. For tickets, visit SCR.org.

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In his 39 years as a Newport Beach lifeguard, 59-year-old Brian O’Rourke has witnessed, marveled at, ridden, and battled just about every wave type known to oceanographers.

In his 39 years of scanning and patrolling sea and shore, he estimates that he’s saved more than 1,000 panicked persons of every mesomorphic description in every age group.

In those 39 years, he has marveled at the changes in beach culture, from fashion to behaviors.

And now, after the most “rewarding 39 years imaginable,” O’Rourke – the Assistant Chief Lifeguard Operations at City of Newport Beach Fire Department – is leaving the profession that has defined his life. Soon, he’ll salute the sea goodbye as he and his wife of 23 years, Monica, depart Newport to the greener environs in the mountains of Idaho.

At the age of 18, O’Rourke began lifeguarding at the placid lagoon of Newport Dunes, while attending Orange Coast College as a water polo athlete. The team’s assistant coach, himself a full-time Newport Beach lifeguard, suggested O’Rourke try out to become a lifeguard. Success came “the second time around,” as an injury interrupted his initial challenging training. While working full-time, O’Rourke earned his degree in Vocational Education with an emphasis on Life Safety and Emergency Management from Cal State University, Long Beach.

Throughout his university years, O’Rourke knew that his career path led to the beach and to becoming a full-time lifesaver.

O’Rourke lauded the recent heroic lifesaving efforts of 16-year-old Santa Cruz lifeguard Ryan Williams, whose heroism in saving a young child in wild surf was captured on video and circulated nationally, and which earned a presidential invitation to the White House.

But O’Rourke voiced, “Honestly, this is what all lifeguards do and with little fanfare.” Evidence of this is the number of average lives saved annually by Newport’s dedicated guards.

“On average, we save around 3,000 people a year. This year, we’ll probably surpass 4,000,” O’Rourke projected with obvious pride, but with understated humility.

“Newport Beach can be a very treacherous beach,” O’Rourke shared. “Obviously, we have the Wedge, plus we have several areas (along a six-mile beachfront) where we get very large waves and very strong rip tides.” Such a phenomenon makes for a “very dangerous job,”

“You’re put in situations with large, scary waves and very strong rips. Oftentimes, you’re held underwater while you’re really far off the beach and exhausted. You’re committed to saving a victim and yourself. There’s no quitting once you know you have to go after somebody,” O’Rourke emphasized.

He cites the heroic efforts of 33-year-old professional lifeguard Ben Carlson, who in 2014 died tragically and inexplicably while saving a male in 12-foot storm surf.

But overall, O’Rourke claims, Newport is a safe beach “if you remain aware.” Over the years, Newport averages one or two drownings annually; however, “We’ve had no drownings over the past several years.”

He advises repeatedly that all beachgoers swim near a lifeguard, plus seek information or advice about sea conditions or other safety concerns before wading or diving in.

Beach lifeguards are almost always seen with sausage-shaped floatation devices, which they drag behind them en route to a victim.

“Those floats are for the victims on which to rest,” O’Rourke said. “But the lifeguards use them too,” he admits. “If necessary, we’ll strap a victim to those floats if they are panicking so we don’t lose them underwater as we drag them back.”

The most difficult thing for an endangered swimmer is to “not panic,” O’Rourke claimed, recognizing how difficult panicking is to control. “I think that panic is the number one thing that gets people in trouble. And that can also get a lifeguard into trouble, as well.” To that end, O’Rourke shared, “Teaching our guards to help victims relax is a major part of our lifesaving efforts,” while also controlling their own adrenaline flow.

On a busy day, there may be more than 100,000 people frolicking at the beach, always requiring lifeguards to unceasingly scan. Fortunately, O’Rourke explained, lifeguard towers are spaced closely enough for zones of observation to overlap should assistance be needed. ”Our goal is to make sure everyone goes home safely at the end of the day,” O’Rourke asserted.

The basics of lifeguarding have remained unchanged since the profession began in the 1700s, when “lifesavers” would be sent out to rescue passengers and mariners in need, according to the “History of the Lifeguard,” on the website Panama Jack. These heroes evolved into the nonprofit United States Lifesaving Service, which in time became the United States Coast Guard.

Newport Beach has been home to a Coast Guard cutter since 1942, and currently homeports the 87-foot -long Narwhal, a Marine Protector Class coastal patrol boat.

By the 1800s, shipwrecks were rare, so the lifesaving services shifted their focus to the beach, especially as sandy seashores became prime recreation areas.

In the l920s, a variety of organizations began lifesaving training, including the YMCA and the American Red Cross. In the 1950s, lifesaving techniques expanded, especially with the invention of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation combined with chest compressions, known as CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Over the years, technology has enhanced tools for saving lives. Those include everything from basic rubber gloves to the Heart Start defibrillator; from RWCs (Rescue Water Craft, synonymous with Sea Doos) to administrative systems, and advanced emergency medical training, O’Rourke shared. Still, none supplants hard physical preparation and exertion. For example,”It takes a team of at least several people to manhandle and position an 800-pound RWC in position to power beyond the surf to rescue a drowning person.

As he heads toward retirement, O’Rourke has reflected on his many lifesaving experiences, “too many to specifically recall,” he said. But he does recount his inaugural day serving on West Newport Tower 61.

“I’ll never forget that day, it was huge! Every lifeguard from 44th Street westward had at least 15 rescues. I just remember going out to rescue some people, then landing up nearly three-quarters of a mile from my tower, almost to Huntington Beach.”

Few professionals face the daily challenges that lifeguards do; O’Rourke doesn’t talk much about that. But what he does talk educationally and willingly about was the greatest challenge he ever faced — not in the surf, but in an exhausting and debilitating 10-month battle against non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system.

It started with a small lump in the neck, followed by inexplicable and progressive fatigue. By the time it had been identified, cancerous tumors had spread throughout his body. Intensive chemo followed, along with exhausting stem cell therapy. Of course, O’Rourke credits his doctors for miraculous care. But he also gives amazing credit for his survival to the loving support from both his wife and his lifeguard family. Not to be discounted, a warrior’s will to live can never be underestimated. He has been cancer-free for 10 years, but checks in every three months just to ensure that stability.

Although weakened after treatment, O’Rourke worked out diligently for months to the point where he thought he could retake the demanding lifeguard qualification test. As willpower dictated, he passed the challenge of the test, earning the deep respect of his coworkers who knew how difficult that must’ve been.

The Chief’s simple, freely given advice after his near-death experience: “If something bothers you, have it checked.”

It may take years to review his four decades of service and bring forth all that he has cherished within the lifeguard department. But two things stand out for him immediately: the trusted friends he has made along the way, and all his teammates who together have made the Newport Beach Lifeguard Department the most respected such service in the United States, and the honor of overseeing the nation’s largest Junior Lifeguard summer program.

Until he cranks his car to depart for Idaho, O’Rourke pledges to surf as many days as possible—doubtlessly near a lifeguard tower.

The post From Tower 61 to Assistant Chief of Lifeguard Operations: Brian O’Rourke Reflects on 39 Years as a Newport Beach Lifeguard appeared first on Newport Beach News.

Hundreds of music fans turned out over the course of two days to enjoy The Righteous Brothers – Bill Medley and Bucky Heard performing at the iconic Lido Theater, while raising funds for two worthwhile local organizations.

The inaugural Lido Legacy Live concerts benefited the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Scholarship Program and Friends of OASIS Senior Center in Newport Beach.

On September 10 and 11, Medley and Heard performed the Righteous Brothers classic hits “(You’re My) Soul and Inspiration,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling, “Unchained Melody,” and many others, while the crowd sang and danced in the landmark theater.

In between the music, Medley told stories of the early days when he and Bobby Hatfield, his late music partner, first started and how they created their chart-topping hits.

The festive evenings included a reception along The Lido Walk, adjacent to the Lido Theater at Via Lido Plaza, with light bites provided by Lido House, The Cannery, and ZPizza.

Before the concert got underway, Brian Bissell, senior vice president at Whittier Trust – the presenting sponsor of the event – was introduced. He noted that the word “legacy” certainly fit the occasion.

“Legacy is a fitting theme for tonight because it means something different to each of us,” said Bissell. “Legacy is more than just financial assets. It’s the values we pass on, the character we build, and the impact we leave on our community. That’s why we’re so proud to support two organizations tonight that are such an important part of Newport Beach. And I know that personally because I grew up here, and I was a junior lifeguard, which around here is a rite of passage. It sure teaches you ocean safety, but what it really builds is character. Whether it’s completing the monster mile, body surfing on a red flag day, or taking that first jump off the pier, you learn to face your fears and discover that you’re capable of more than you thought. Character is built by facing challenges.”

Bissell noted that Whittier Trust has roots in Newport Beach that go back 90 years—they were founded in 1935 as a family office for the Whittier family, whose roots in Newport Beach date back to the earliest days of the Balboa Peninsula.

“We’re still proud to be a part of this community,” stated Bissell. “We’re celebrating two organizations tonight that make Newport Beach stronger. The Junior Lifeguard builds character in the next generation, and Oasis ensures that the wisdom, the values, and experiences of a lifetime continue to enrich this community, and that is a legacy we can all be proud of.”

Next up was Jordan Otterbein of the River Jetty Restaurant Group, the operators of the Lido Theater.

“I just want to say a few words about the theater and thank Fritz Duda (Lido Theater owner) for all he did and the millions of dollars he poured into this place to bring it back,” said Otterbein. “When he approached my partner McG and me about operating and managing the theater, we had a lot of meetings about what our vision was for the theater. It was going to be more than just showing movies. And if this is your first visit to the theater, I just want to tell you a few things about what we do here.”

He explained that every day they show a family-friendly movie starting at 8 a.m. that runs all day, and best of all, it’s free. Parents come and they bring their kids and they have coffee and a slice of coffee cake and watch a movie.

“People have really enjoyed it and embraced it, and that was part of what we wanted to bring to the theater, along with events like this,” said Otterbein. “We’re just hitting our stride on what we envision for the theater.”

Gary Conwell and Jeff Boyles of the Newport Beach Fire Department, which runs the Junior Lifeguard Program, were introduced.

Conwell explained that this summer, they had 1,550 Junior Lifeguards participate in the program, and they have a new Junior Lifeguard headquarters.

“That has changed our program immensely,” said Conwell. “It’s given us a foundation to educate our junior guards. Educate our instructors. Have city rentals. It’s an amazing building. So I know some of you out there had a hand in that. So thank you for that. I’m proud to be a part of this. Thank you for attending this evening. Our scholarship program is very strong. We gave 25 scholarships this year, and thanks to tonight and last night, we are going to be able to extend that program for at least another 10 years.”

A live auction was emceed by Newport Beach resident Bob Miller. Guests bid on prizes, including taking the stage to sing with Medley and Heard during the concert, a ride on Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard rescue boat, and a one-year membership to the OASIS Sailing Club.

Presented by Whittier Trust, the Lido Legacy Live benefit concert aims to be an annual fundraiser sponsored by Fritz Duda Company. Other sponsors of this year’s event were Eagle Four Partners, Fritz Duda Company, MSP Sports Capital, River Jetty Restaurant Group, Shea Homes, The Cannery, and Walkie and Janet Ray.

The post First Annual Lido Legacy Live Benefit Concerts Raise Funds for Newport Beach Junior Lifeguards and Friends of OASIS Senior Center appeared first on Newport Beach News.

Newport Beach-based CureDuchenne, a leading global nonprofit focused on finding and funding a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, raised more than $700,000 at the 15th Annual CureDuchenne Golf Shootout, hosted by Anaheim Ducks right wing Troy Terry and his wife, Dani. The two-day fundraising event was held at Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point.

The CureDuchenne Golf Shootout, founded by NHL All-Star Ryan Getzlaf and his wife, Paige, and now hosted by Troy and Dani Terry, brought together professional athletes, celebrities and community leaders for two days of camaraderie, entertainment and philanthropy.

The weekend kicked off with an MVP Dinner reception at Cannery Seafood of the Pacific in Newport Beach, followed by a full day of golf and fundraising at Monarch Beach Golf Links, featuring appearances by the Anaheim Ducks Power Players, on-course games, gourmet food, and hole-in-one opportunities to win luxury prizes.

“Fifteen years of the Golf Shootout is a powerful testament to what’s possible when a community rallies around a shared mission,” said Debra Miller, founder and CEO of CureDuchenne. “We’re incredibly grateful to Troy and Dani for hosting this incredible event and to every participant, sponsor and supporter who made this year’s event possible. The funds raised will help us continue investing in promising research, advancing better treatments, and driving toward the ultimate goal of a cure for Duchenne.”

To date, the CureDuchenne Golf Shootout has raised more than $7.5 million to help fuel groundbreaking research and accelerate treatments for individuals living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, one of the most common and severe forms of muscular dystrophy. The progressive disease, which affects approximately 1 in 5,000 male births, causes muscle degeneration and weakness and typically results in loss of mobility during adolescence and life-threatening complications in early adulthood.

Founded in 2003 by Debra and Paul Miller, CureDuchenne has invested more than $28 million in research, helping advance 20 projects into human clinical trials and bringing the organization closer to its ultimate goal of finding a cure.

Troy Terry is a two-time NHL All-Star and one of the Anaheim Ducks’ all-time leading scorers. A 2018 Olympian, World Junior Champion with Team USA and NCAA champion with the University of Denver, Terry has spent his entire NHL career with the Ducks. Troy and his wife, Dani, are dedicated supporters of the Southern California community and passionate advocates for CureDuchenne. As parents of two young boys, Troy and Dani are especially connected with the families CureDuchenne serves. Their commitment to the Duchenne community is reflected in their continued support as hosts of the annual CureDuchenne Golf Shootout.

“Seeing so many people come together for this cause made the weekend incredibly meaningful for Dani and me,” said Troy Terry. “We’re grateful to everyone who showed up, gave generously and helped make this year’s Golf Shootout such a success. As parents, we’re especially inspired by the strength of families facing Duchenne, and we’re proud to play a part in supporting the research and progress that can give them more hope for the future.”

The 2027 CureDuchenne Golf Shootout will be held September 10-11, 2027. For more information, visit Cureduchennegolfshootout.org.

More than 20 years ago, 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 by investing more than $27 million in early-stage research, helping move 19 programs into human clinical trials.

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Miracle Makers International Film Festival (MMIFF) concluded its third season following five days of screenings, Q&As, industry panels, a VIP Pitch Fest, Newport Harbor yacht interviews, veterans programming, and an Awards Show Gala celebrating excellence, purpose, and meaningful storytelling.

Held September 2 through 6 at Regal Edwards Big Newport and the American Legion Post 291, Season 3 presented short films, documentaries, and features across the festival’s Faith & Family and Open divisions, bringing together “Makers,” actors, producers, entertainment executives, veterans, and audiences from across the country.

“Our Season 3 slogan, ‘Faith Gives You Wings,’ could not have been more fitting,” said Erin Miracle, Founder and Festival Director of MMIFF, in a statement. “This festival was carried for months by faith, prayer and more miracles than we could possibly measure. What began as a vision took flight and reached heights we never could have imagined. Our mission is ‘Entertainment with Eternal Impact,’ and we celebrate the Makers creating exactly that. Season 3 isn’t an ending. It’s only the beginning. We believe God has positioned Miracle Makers for even greater work ahead, and with the continued support of our community, we can create more opportunities and serve more Makers.”

Season 3 offered an extensive program of short films, documentaries and features alongside Q&As, panels and conversations with the artists and industry professionals behind the work.

The festival opened with an inspirational industry conversation led by Brad Silverman, Chief Content Officer of Kappa Studios, setting the tone for five days designed not only to exhibit films, but to encourage, equip and connect the people creating them.

Opening day programming included “Miracle on the Precipice” from filmmaker Nathan Todd Sims, with members of its cast and crew in attendance, including Venice Wong, who later received the festival’s Best Young Actress award.

The evening also featured “The One,” starring Martin Sheen, with Noah Red Clay, Olivia Sanabia, writer and producer Erin Elizabeth Cook, and other members of the cast and creative team in attendance.

The festival welcomed Fellowship of Christian Athletes Orange County leader Tony Gomez in connection with a documentary by Biola graduate Joshua Craig, as well as Kids in the Spotlight, whose work empowering youth in foster care through filmmaking was later recognized with an Eternal Impact Award.

Actor Neal McDonough, one of the stars of the upcoming Burns & Co. Entertainment feature “Jimmy,” about the life of actor and WWII veteran Jimmy Stewart, shared a film trailer with audiences.

These programs represented only a portion of an extensive five-day schedule.

The event culminated on September 6 with an “It’s a Wonderful Life” themed Awards Show Gala at American Legion Post 291 on the Balboa Peninsula, attended by more than 200 Makers, entertainment professionals, veterans, special guests, and supporters.

The evening recognized achievement across filmmaking, acting, directing, producing, writing and technical disciplines, while specialty awards honored individuals and organizations whose work reflects the festival’s mission.

Karen Covell, Founder of Hollywood Prayer Network, received the Miracle Maker Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her decades of service to the entertainment community.

Steve Rosansky, President and CEO of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, received the Believer Award in recognition of his support for MMIFF.

Rob Hollman, Executive Director and Board Chair of the Grateful Film Fund and the festival’s fiscal sponsor, received the Eternally Grateful Award.

Kids in the Spotlight received an Eternal Impact Award recognizing its work empowering youth in foster care through filmmaking.

Newport Beach City Councilmember Michelle Barto attended the event.

“I met Erin and was really impressed by what she was doing, and I wanted to see how we could help,” Barto told the NB Indy. “I feel like we need more of that family-friendly kind of content in our city. I have a marketing agency, and my agency helped with the marketing pro bono because we were just so excited. We really believe in it, and I think it’s just grown beyond my wildest dreams. It’s really everything’s fallen into place in such a wonderful way.”

The closing celebration drew inspiration from Frank Capra’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” and welcomed Karolyn Grimes, beloved by generations for her portrayal of Zuzu Bailey in the classic 1946 film.

Grimes addressed the more than 200 guests gathered for the Gala, sharing memories of working with Jimmy Stewart on “It’s a Wonderful Life” and Cary Grant on “The Bishop’s Wife.” She also reflected on her own remarkable relationship with the film.

Grimes shared that she did not see “It’s a Wonderful Life” until she was 40 years old and that one of her greatest regrets was not having watched it every year with her children before then. It has since become an annual tradition.

“The movie gives people hope,” Grimes told the NB Indy. “I have people write to me and say, ‘I was on that bridge, and I saw the movie, and it saved me. I realized my life could be made better. I could find myself, and then every time I get down again, I watch it again, and it saved my life.’ So many people have told me that.”

Beyond screenings, panels and awards, MMIFF emphasized community and relationship building. Makers attended one another’s screenings, emerging creatives connected with established professionals, veterans shared their stories with new generations, and new creative and professional relationships formed throughout the week.

Special guests and participating talent throughout Season 3 included Neal McDonough, Karolyn Grimes, Nate Boyer, Cyrus Nowrasteh, Betsy Giffen Nowrasteh, Jeff Celentano, LazRael Lison, Karen Covell, Brad Silverman, Rick Altizer, LyNea “LB” Bell, Alicia Godmasch Elliott, Anne Yancey, DJ Hale, Jesse Edwards, Erin Elizabeth Cook, Olivia Sanabia, Noah Red Clay and numerous additional Makers and entertainment professionals.

With Season 3 concluded, MMIFF has already opened submissions for Season 4.

Festival organizers are evaluating dates, locations and formats for the next season, including a possible return to Newport Beach or a move closer to Los Angeles while maintaining a Southern California coastal setting. MMIFF is also exploring opportunities for smaller pop-up festivals in other states.

Miracle Makers International Film Festival (MMIFF) is a global platform dedicated to empowering storytellers whose work inspires, uplifts and creates lasting change.

Founded by filmmaker, producer, and actress Erin Miracle, the festival celebrates film, television, writing, music, dance, content creation, and the many crafts that bring stories to life.

Through its Faith & Family and Open divisions, Miracle Makers welcomes Makers from a broad range of creative backgrounds while remaining committed to its mission of Entertainment with Eternal Impact.

Beyond screenings and awards, MMIFF connects Makers with industry professionals, nonprofits, businesses, and community leaders through panels, pitch opportunities, networking, press, special events, and year-round initiatives designed to extend the impact of meaningful stories beyond the festival itself.

For more information, visit https://miraclemakersiff.com/.

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Newport Beach’s five-star, five-diamond The Resort at Pelican Hill invites golfers to hit the newly restored South Course at the award-winning Pelican Hill Golf Club for the second annual Play Yellow Charity Golf Tournament on Monday, Oct. 5 at 11 a.m. Hosted in partnership with Jack and Barbara Nicklaus and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, the tournament will bring together Pelican Hill’s golf community and partners for a meaningful day on the course, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting Rady Children’s Health and Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC).

This year, the Resort has set an ambitious $125,000 fundraising goal to support local children and families.

Players will compete in an 18-hole, four-person scramble across Pelican Hill’s newly restored South Course, now featuring reimagined bunkers and reopened ocean sightlines that enhance the coastal golf experience.

The day will begin with a welcome breakfast bar, along with food and beverage stations throughout the course, premium tee gifts for every player, and an optional Play Yellow Ball Challenge. Following the round, guests will gather for a post-round dinner reception featuring an awards ceremony and silent auction.

The tournament comes at an exciting moment for Pelican Hill Golf Club, coinciding with the final phase of its comprehensive course restoration ahead of the North Course debut this November.

Foursomes are available for $6,000 and include four players, premium tee gifts, breakfast, on-course food and beverage, and the post-round reception. Additional sponsorship packages are also available. Registration and sponsorship information can be found at www.pelicanhill.com/golf/play-yellow-with-pelican-hill.

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By Sandra M. Borges | Special to the NB Independent

Newport Beach entrepreneur Luann McElroy, whose business ventures include her own magazine, Damsel, and Voyagers Rentals, a Newport Beach Duffy boat experience, had talked about launching a Christian-based company, but she was unsure what that company might be.

One day, her young daughter, Jude, asked for a Labubu—a plush toy that looked like an elf with exaggerated facial features.

“We walk into her school, and all of the kids have these creepy little dolls attached to their backpacks. I didn’t know what it was, and she didn’t know what they were, and she’s like, ‘Mom, I want one’,” said McElroy.

With this, her company, Holy Holy Holies, was born. It’s McElroy’s own form of ministry, aimed at providing each child with their own prayer angel.

“We have to create something more meaningful if we’re going to carry it around with us,” said McElroy. “It’s a reminder that God and His love are always with you.”

The prayer angel who initiated it is named Jude, inspired by McElroy’s daughter, and has striking baby-blue eyes and shiny blonde hair with bangs.

Launching a few days before Resurrection Sunday, McElroy didn’t sit in a room and plot every second of the brand’s strategy, but instead allowed the Holy Spirit who lives in her to guide every step of the process.

“The name came, the design… it all came together. I haven’t come up with any of this,” said McElroy. It was all derived directly from Scripture: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” Isaiah 6:3 accompanies the tag of every prayer angel.

It was evident that bringing Holy Holy Holies to fruition was what she was missing all along, and it came as a blessing through her daughter.

The Bible states in Matthew 19:14, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”

McElroy envisions expanding her prayer angels. A sub-branch of the faith-based company is fundraising to share the good news of Jesus Christ.

“We just finished [a fundraiser] in Texas,” said McElroy. “It was a St. Mary Catholic school. Any order that came in with the code St. Mary on it, that whole order is getting 20 percent back to the school. That’s how they’re fundraising.”

Looking ahead, Holy Holy Holies aims to launch the next prayer angel by this Christmas. This angel will be the second in what she hopes to be a line of six or seven prayer angels. This next one will have brown hair and brown eyes, with a tan complexion, in a light blue dress.

To acquire a Jude prayer angel, visit www.holyholyholies.com.

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By Sandra M. Borges | Special to the NB Indy

In Orange County, approximately 95,000 adults ages 65 and older live alone, and it’s not by choice. Newport Beach resident Marc Iannini identified this problem after the loss of several of his uncles, leaving their widows in a lonely state of isolation.

“Losing a loved one is sort of like losing a part of yourself,” said Iannini.

In an effort to tackle nighttime loneliness among elders after losing a spouse, he launched Better2Gether365, a concierge-led companionship-after-loss service.

Pivoting away from the common matchmaking in dating apps, Better2Gether365 is not focused on romance. Instead, it matches older adults who are looking for someone to share a home life with.

“We’re definitely trying to match compatible, independent older adults together,” said Iannini.

Matches are based on factors such as interests, lifestyle, background, and whether a person hopes to remain in their current home or move somewhere new.

This niche process is gradual and carefully curated. After the concierge has introduced the potential housemates, they are encouraged to complete about five hour-long phone calls over one to two weeks. The concierge then touches base with both individuals to suggest that they share their experiences before moving forward in the process.

That personalized assistance continues even after a matched connection is made. Better2Gether365 helps members prepare emotionally, review moving checklists, and locate moving services. Once the members begin living together, the company provides approximately 60 days of follow-up support.

“We check in and let them know that we’re still there if they need us,” said Iannini.

Currently, Better2Gether365 is in a pilot program in which it offers its first 100 participants the complete matching service at no cost until they are matched and have lived together for one month.

“To keep us accountable, we have to live up to our end of the deal by providing them 10 quality matches, and hopefully they do their phone calls, and they have their meetings,” said Iannini.

To schedule an initial consultation, visit www.better2gether365.com.

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