For three weeks this summer, Chapman University’s Sandi Simon Center for Dance becomes home for students from around the country, all there to participate in local dance troupe’s Backhausdance’s Summer Intensive.

The program concludes July 24 at 6 p.m. in the Sandi Simon performance studio with a showcase that will feature a restaged and reimagined version of Artistic Director Jennifer Backhaus’ 2017 work, “Hive.”

The five-movement piece, danced to a score by the Kronos Quartet, loosely references the hierarchy and community found within a beehive, themes Backhaus said take on new meaning with a group of young dancers who have spent weeks learning from company members to work as one.

Now in its 22nd year (nearly as long as the 24-year-old company has existed), the Backhausdance Summer Intensive has become central to the organization’s identity. This year’s program runs July 7 through July 24 and brings together dancers ages 12 and up for daily training, mentorship and a collaborative creative process that builds toward next week’s performance.

“Our mission is to create excellent dance, but it is also to engage the community and to share our love of dance and the power of dance with as many people as possible,” said Backhaus, a resident of Newport Beach.

Education and outreach have played a defining role in Backhausdance’s mission since the company’s founding, and the intensive has grown into one of its clearest expressions of that commitment. Each summer, choreographers, current company members and Chapman University alumni return to teach.

This year, Backhausdance expanded its reach further with the launch of the Backhausdance Educators Institute, a new four-day program held alongside the intensive. The institute is aimed at dance educators rather than dancers themselves, offering teaching resources and a chance for instructors to connect with one another and build a broader community around dance education.

For Backhaus, what students take away from the intensive matters just as much as the training itself.

“They have a better understanding of themselves,” Backhaus said. “I hope they try something new, they learn something about themselves that they can take with them. That they are inspired, feel refreshed, they can take a fresh attitude back to where they dance.”

As this year’s intensive wraps up, Backhausdance is already looking toward a full slate of upcoming performances, including a show at the Barclay in the spring. The company is also approaching a significant milestone of its own: its 25th anniversary in 2027.

Tickets for “Deconstructed Hive” from 6 to 8 p.m. are $35 to $45. Sandi Simon Center for Dance is at 350 N. Cypress St. in Orange. Visit https://www.backhausdance.org/events

The post Newport’s Jennifer Backhaus Fosters a Hive of Aspiring Dancers appeared first on Newport Beach News.

By Sandra M. Borges | Special to the NB Indy

More than a decade after “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” concluded the beloved book series, the wizarding world continues to cast its magic on audiences—this time from the stage.

The six-time Tony Award-winning “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” arrives at Segerstrom Center for the Arts through July 25, marking the Costa Mesa stop of the production’s first-ever national tour.

Based on an original story by J.K. Rowling, playwright Jack Thorne, and director John Tiffany, the play follows Harry Potter as an adult, exploring the challenges of fatherhood and family through the eyes of a new generation.

Unlike the original novels and preceding films, “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” shifts its focus from Harry’s coming-of-age journey to the intricate relationship between Harry and his youngest son, Albus. According to producer Colin Callender, that family dynamic was the spark that convinced Rowling to return to the wizarding world in an entirely new format.

“People had been approaching J.K. Rowling about doing a musical about Harry Potter, but she didn’t like musicals,” said Callender. “We were interested in the idea of how Harry Potter grew up and learned to be a dad when he didn’t have any role models, and what it would be like to be Harry’s son.”

The play tells a story that shows how Harry’s past shaped the person—and parent—he eventually became. Producer Sonia Friedman said Rowling initially had no interest in writing another novel or producing another film but believed there was still “unfinished business” with Harry. That realization ultimately led to the creation of a theatrical story centered on legacy.

While audiences can expect plenty of spells and spectacles, the creators say the emotional relationships remain the heart of the production. “It’s the personal drama that makes it so compelling,” said Callender.

Bringing the wizarding world to life on stage also presented an opportunity that filmmakers simply cannot replicate. “I’ve always had the sense that Hogwarts was a world that belonged on stage,” said Tiffany. “In some ways, a play is more exciting than a book or movie because it’s happening in front of you.”

That philosophy guided the production’s approach to its signature illusions. Instead of relying on digital effects, the creative team embraced practical stagecraft to create flying spells and seemingly impossible transformations before a live audience.

Although rooted in one of the world’s most recognizable franchises, the production was designed to welcome audiences who may know little about Harry Potter, with the play also becoming a gateway into live theater itself. According to Callender, more than half of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” audiences are first-time theatergoers, a milestone the creative team considers one of the show’s greatest accomplishments.

“There are certain themes at the center of Harry Potter that are universal,” said Callender. “Our play is the story of Albus Potter and his friend Scorpius Malfoy, but it’s also the story of Harry Potter’s journey as an adult, coming to terms with who he is.”

These universal themes continue to resonate with audiences more than 25 years after readers first stepped into Hogwarts. As “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” makes its Costa Mesa debut, the production offers longtime fans a chance to revisit the wizarding world while inviting newcomers to experience its magic for the very first time.

Tickets to “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” are available through the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in-person box office, online at www.SCFTA.org, or via phone at (714) 556-2787.

The post ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Brings Wizarding Magic to Segerstrom Center Through July 25 appeared first on Newport Beach News.

It began as Pacifica Choreographic Project and then continued with National Choreographers Project. Now, after 35 years, NCI Founder and Artistic Director Molly Lynch – the former founder and artistic director of Ballet Pacifica – has decided to make this year’s project the last dance.

NCI is an intensive, three-week program where Lynch invites four choreographers, as well as 16 professional dancers from ballet companies across the country, to participate and create new works. The project culminates in a performance showcasing the excitement of new creation—this year at the Irvine Barclay on Saturday, July 25.

To celebrate the work of NCI over the years and highlight the work of the choreographers, Lynch has invited back four choreographers from past years, including Sarah Tallman, Julia Feldman, Emily Adams, and DaYoung Jung.

Over the years, Lynch has worked with 136 choreographers and, through NCI, 185 dancers representing 60 dance companies. These artists have launched and developed their careers at NCI.

According to Lynch, who lives in Corona del Mar and teaches dance at UCI, she launched NCI not sure if it would work.

“When I started NCI, I thought I’ll give this a try and we’ll see if this works out,” recalled Lynch during a recent interview with the NB Indy. “I kind of had in my mind three to five years, and then after a while you turn around, and it’s been 20 years. People seemed to really enjoy coming to the show, and were supportive of it, but costs keep going up, donations are tough to get in this environment, and so now I think it’s time for me to step aside so that the next generation can take the reins and do their projects.”

Lynch said that NCI has evolved over the years, and there has been a marked difference from when she first created the project with Ballet Pacifica.

“With Pacifica Choreographic Project, I was really trying to develop relationships in choreography for the company and for the company dancers,” explained Lynch. “With NCI, I think that it became much more nationally recognized and broader reach because I was trying to give opportunities to emerging and mid-career kind of choreographers, but also reaching out to dancers in different companies across the country and giving them an opportunity to work with other dancers that they don’t work with, and work with other choreographers that they don’t normally work with, so the networking with NCI has been just incredible in a way. It wasn’t something that I necessarily intended. One of the main benefits of it is that choreographers meet other choreographers, dancers meet other dancers, and choreographers to dancers and dancers to choreographers, and they take those experiences back to their home companies or to other things, and so I think it’s really become more broader and reaches more of a national dance community.”

One common thread is that every year it has been four choreographers and 16 dancers, who are split between the choreographers.

“That seems like it’s worked out pretty well. We house them on campus (at UCI), which is kind of a nice thing, because then they’re all together and they’re within walking distance of the studios. Of course, every year is different, because there are different choreographers and some returning dancers and some new dancers, so it’s always a different mix.”

For the final bow of NCI, Lynch wanted to bring back four choreographers that were still actively pursuing their choreographic careers and that would represent the past 10 years of NCI. Lynch also decided that I was going to have all women choreographers this year.

“There are fewer women choreographers in ballet than men, so it’s always been one of the things that I’ve kind of wanted to do, and that I have done, is to support women choreographers. And for the last dance, let’s make it all women choreographers, and celebrate not just their work but celebrate all of the choreographers that have participated.”

Lynch said that about half of the dancers are returning to NCI and half of them are new, which is the formula Lynch has used over the years.

“We have the returning dancers who can celebrate the work that they have done at NCI before, and then we bring in some new dancers to give them the experience as we go off into the sunset.

Lynch also told the choreographers that while the idea is to create something new, she’s not looking for a celebration piece.

“I want them to come in with the idea of creating something that they want to be doing and using that opportunity to expand their choreographic voice and all of that, so it’s not coming in with any other expectations than to just work and do something of their choosing. I try to encourage them to stay open and take it as it comes. I don’t ask them for any kind of proposal, I don’t ask them ahead of time what music they might be using, I don’t ask them any theme or anything. I’m hiring them based on their previous work and the direction that I see they’re going, but when they come in, they really are given the free reign to work on whatever it is that they choose to do.”

The July 25 concert at The Barclay will be the premieres of the four dance projects that resulted from this year’s NCI. After the concert is a reception on the Barclay patio so the audience can meet and talk with the choreographers and dancers.

Tickets to the July 25 concert are $28 to $105 and include a post-performance reception. Tickets can be purchased at www.thebarclay.org.

The post Curtain Comes Down on National Choreographers Initiative Led by Corona del Mar Resident Molly Lynch appeared first on Newport Beach News.

After more than 10 years of planning, fundraising and construction, the Library Foundation of Newport Beach, the Newport Beach Public Library and the City of Newport Beach celebrated the Grand Opening of Witte Hall July 9 through 12.

On Thursday, July 9, Mayor Lauren Kleiman and the Newport Beach City Council cut the ribbon to Witte Hall. The next day, the Library Foundation hosted an invitation-only celebration for major donors to the Beyond Books Campaign for Witte Hall, and City and community leaders, in the Stahr Courtyard and in Witte Hall.

On Saturday, July 11, the Newport Beach Public Library held two events free to the public: an Open House and a Meet the Author presentation with surf legend and former world champion Shaun Tomson.

Then on Sunday, July 12, there was a Grand Opening Musicale Concert featuring a Cello Quartet. This was the first musical performance in the acoustically engineered hall.

According to press material, Witte Hall is the manifestation of a 12-year vision to transform the quality and character of programs and events presented by the Newport Beach Public Library, the Library Foundation and other City and community organizations. Prior to Witte Hall opening, most of the library’s programming was done in the library’s multi-purpose Friends room, which had a capacity of 180 with poor sight lines and acoustics.

Witte Hall will provide programming with literary, cultural, artistic, and educational value. In addition to Library and Foundation programs, Witte Hall will be available to community organizations for musical programs, conferences, films, lectures, and other programming. The City’s Recreation and Senior Services Department will manage Witte Hall.

Witte Hall is on the Library grounds adjacent to Avocado Avenue. Award-winning architect Robert R. Coffee Architect + Associates designed Witte Hall. The curved roof takes its inspiration from the seashells commonly found on the beaches of Newport Beach.

Witte Hall is nearly 10,000 square feet, technologically advanced with tiered seating for 299 guests and fully ADA compliant, including assistive listening devices.

Welcome to Witte Hall

At the Friday evening VIP event, Marilyn Krahe, Chair of the Library Foundation, welcomed a capacity audience to Witte Hall.

“I can’t believe it—I have the honor to be the first to welcome you to Witte Hall,” Krahe told the audience. “So look left, look right, and thank everybody who’s here, because this is the room that made it happen. These are the folks from our community that made this building the crown jewel of the Civic Center, a gathering place for the exchange of ideas.”

Krahe noted that a short film detailing the history of the library and the building of Witte Hall would be screened, but “it’s the first film we’ve made, so bear with us. It’s also the first day that we have tested the audio equipment, so we could have a lot of different things happen. But I know all of you will enjoy the program regardless.”

Krahe acknowledged many of the supporters who made Witte Hall possible, and then singled out Library Foundation board member Jill Johnson-Tucker, whom she called the “one person whose persistence has been that river that carried this project from vision to stone.” After Johnson-Tucker received a standing ovation, Krahe remarked that “she has an unwavering commitment that’s had a lasting mark not only on this beautiful building but on all of us as a community.”

Johnson-Tucker told the audience that the initial idea came more than 12 years ago while on a hike with friends, chatting about how the library needed a proper venue for it’s ever-expanding programming.

Eventually a committee was formed to study ways to build a new lecture hall.

“A fluctuating group from the library and the city took road trips up and down the state, visiting auditoriums and lecture halls, figuring out what would best serve us in Newport Beach,” said Johnson-Tucker. “We studied every corner of this lot, and we knew that we wanted to land right here where we are, next to Avocado and close to the Friends Room, so that the courtyard could become the gathering hub that it is tonight and serve as the physical connection between the library and the hall.”

“When we finally approached the city council for approval of a conceptual design in 2019, we were incredibly fortunate to have Diane Dixon on the council, and serving as mayor no less,” continued Johnson-Tucker.

Dixon appointed a committee that reviewed design proposals. They settled on architect Robert Coffee of Newport Beach.

“He was laser focused on everything we wanted, then quietly went beyond our expectations,” said Johnson-Tucker. “We loved working with him. Tonight, you can just see and feel how right that choice was, and how his design fit our aspirations and our beach community esthetic.”

The project then went to bid and the council approved it. The campaign was christened “Beyond Books,” which Johnson-Tucker said was “intended to capture our aspirations of foster discovery and connection beyond the walls of our existing library.”

The goal was to raise $12 million to match the City’s commitment of $12 million, which they did through the generosity of many donors, in particular lead donors Bill Witte and Keiko Sakamoto.

“The Witte family has been woven into the life of Newport Beach for decades,” noted Johnson-Tucker. “That family has given us so much generosity, their time, their passion, their resources, and we’re all the richer for it. Bill and Keiko, you have supported this library and countless other organizations for years, and in this case went above and beyond with your extraordinary gift.”

Newport Beach Councilmember Robyn Grant was introduced, who stated “tonight is epic. That’s the word that I will use. Over a decade in the making, hundreds of members of the public, dozens of elected officials, library lovers, community activists, city staff, all working in lockstep to get us to this moment.”

“One of my favorite quotes is of uncertain origin,” she continued. “It is often attributed to German writer Goethe, although historians do debate its source. Regardless of who first said it, the message, as where we are today, is timeless: ‘Be bold, and mighty forces will come to your aid.’ Those words perfectly describe the journey that has brought us to this moment. Building Witte Hall required a bold vision, a belief that Newport Beach deserved this wonderful gathering place. That vision began with an ambitious idea that inspired a entire community. Indeed, mighty forces have come to our aid. Today, we celebrate not only this beautiful new hall, but also the hundreds of people whose leadership and generosity have made it possible.”

Grant ended by stating that “this is not simply a hall. It’s a place where bold ideas will be shared, meaningful conversations will begin, and mighty forces will continue to come to our community. I’ll finish with another quote. This one definitely is from Goethe. His final recorded words on his deathbed were ‘more light, more light.’ Whether he intended those words as an inspiration or simply as a practical for somebody to open the window. That doesn’t really matter because they’re fitting today. Whitty Hall is, in every sense, a place that will bring more light through knowledge and curiosity and community.”

Grant then introduced Bill Witte, who talked about his family moving to Newport Beach in the 1970s and launching the Witte lecture series 30 years ago.

“My hat is off to all of you who worked hard, either as donors or volunteers or whatever, to make this happen,” said Witte. “You heard the words community and beyond books and learning, that’s what this is really all about.”

A short film detailing the history of the library and construction of Witte Hall was screened, followed by dinner on the Stahr Courtyard.

For more information on Witte Hall, visit the Library Foundation of Newport Beach at https://libraryfoundationnb.org.

The post Beyond Books: Newport Beach Celebrates Grand Opening of Witte Hall appeared first on Newport Beach News.

If you smell savory barbecue mixed with fried twinkies and grilled turkey legs, that can mean only one thing: it’s time for the 2026 OC Fair and all of the fair’s outrageous, sensational, and often over-the-top culinary offerings.

Yes the OC Fair has daily musical acts, exhibits, wine tastings and carnival rides and games, but it’s the food that draws people, and for good reason: this is the one time of year you can ignore your diet and enjoy exotic, flavorful and Instagram-worthy treats both sweet and savory.

According to information from the OC Fair, this year’s food lineup features dozens of new items, OC Fair exclusives and expanded value offerings – including the $5 Taste of Fair now daily until 5 p.m.

The OC Fair opens July 17 and runs through Aug. 16 featuring more than 100 food vendors. New and exclusive flavors:

• The Croffle from Mom’s Bakeshoppe makes its OC Fair debut after gaining popularity in South Korea. The Chocolate Chip Croffle combines a buttery croissant pressed in a waffle iron and topped with vanilla ice cream.
• French Onion Ten Pound Bun, an OC Fair exclusive from Ten Pound Buns, layers whipped butter, garlic, mozzarella, cheddar and caramelized onions into an irresistible oversized bread creation. The stand also offers Campfire Breakfast and vegan Avocado Toast.
• Gooey Maple Butter Popcorn Cone from Planet Popcorn is another OC Fair exclusive, featuring warm maple butter popcorn served in a cone with optional chopped nuts. Guests can also choose from several gluten-free popcorn flavors.
• Shawarma Fry Cone brings middle eastern flavors to the Fair in a portable cone (or wrap) via Chicken Charlie’s stands. While there, look for the OC Fair exclusive Deep-Fried Tiramisu.

And speaking of Chicken Charlie’s, that ever-popular purveyor of all things fried is celebrating 30 years in business with new food items, including Fried The stand is also offering a special $30 anniversary meal deal that includes an entrée, fries, fried Oreos and a drink.

Want more outrageous culinary creations? Additional highlights and food stands include:

• Peanut Butter & Jelly Bacon Cheeseburger (Philly Cheese Steak)
• Dutch Fries with black truffle mayo (Biggy’s)
• Dubai Deep-Fried Oreo (Fried Affair)
• Porkapalooza Pizza (Enzo’s Pizza)
• Korean Corn Dogs and Cheese Sticks rolled in Takis or buldak ramen (Mustard’s)
• Chupacabra Tasti Chips (Tasti Chips)
• Candied drinks dirty beverages (Sugar Puff Candy)
• Gluten-free Cheese Curds (Tasti Burger)
• Loaded Tater Kegs (Tasti Burger)
• New freeze-dried candy beverages and Candy Blast gummies (Sugar Puff Candy)

Guests can also enjoy $5 Taste offerings daily until 5 p.m. at every food stand. Selections vary by food stand, but the OC Fair website has a downloadable list of all the $5 tastes, so you can pick and choose your favorites.

The OC Fair website also includes a food finder section, making it easy to find whatever food will satisfy your cravings.

For more information about the 2026 OC Fair, including admission, entertainment and food offerings, visit www.ocfair.com.

The post OC Fair Serves Lineup of Fan Food Favorites and New Culinary Concoctions appeared first on Newport Beach News.

Salt & Straw

Salt & Straw is renowned for its delicious and creative flavors, especially the monthly concoctions that usually provide unusual takes on frozen concoctions.

Through July 27, Salt & Straw is bringing back the popular Berries Series featuring fan-favorite flavors that highlight the season’s ripest fruit alongside two new creations and the return of the Strawberry Shortcake Waffle Cone.

Flavors in The Berries Series include:

• Birthday Cakes and Blackberries: Mouthfuls of rainbow-flecked confetti cake are strewn throughout salted vanilla ice cream and wrapped with a ribbon of Oregon Growers jam made from plump, juicy blackberries.
• Strawberry Pretzel Salad: Cream cheese ice cream gets swirled with a crunchy pretzel crumble and finished with ribbons of housemade strawberry jam.
• Goat Cheese Marionberry Habanero: Goat cheese from renowned California cheesemaker Cypress Grove meets a fruity swirl of marionberry-habanero jam in every spoonful.
• Huckleberry Oat Crisp with Foraged Porcini: In this new creation, Porcini mushrooms are cooked down with maple syrup and a splash of port wine before churned into a silky ice cream base. Huckleberry jam adds bright acidity while hand-broken pieces of oaty rosemary lace cookies bring a savory-sweet crunch.
• Raspberry Marzipan Princess Cake (v): Another new flavor, inspired by Sweden’s beloved green princess cake. Pistachio-cashew frozen dessert is brightened with vanilla bean and a touch of salt. Ribbons of tangy seedless raspberry jam streak throughout, alongside cubes of raspberry marzipan and delicate chunks of vanilla bean cake.

Salt & Straw is located at 2001 Westcliff Dr. in Newport Beach. Visit https://saltandstraw.com.

SusieCakes Turns 20 with Summer of Celebrations

How do you create a successful cake business? Start with a handful of handwritten recipe cards and a lot of hard work.

In 2006, Susie Sarich opened the first SusieCakes in Brentwood with her grandmothers’ recipe cards and a conviction that the best baked goods are the classic, nostalgic ones. Over time, SusieCakes has grown to more than 30 locations in four states.

This month, SusieCakes is celebrating two decades of delicious and decadent desserts with a variety of special offers.

“SusieCakes is about more than great cake — it is about the relationships we build and the moments we are honored to be part of,” said Sarich. “We have watched families grow up with us: the engagement cake that led to the wedding cake, which led to the baby shower, which led to the birthday. For 20 years, our guests have invited us to their most important milestones, and that trust is something we have never taken for granted. Everything we are doing this summer is a way of saying thank you to the people who made it possible.”

In addition to limited time fan favorites, SusieCakes marks its anniversary on July 18 with a buy one get one free cupcake.

New menu items available through September 7 include a lemon poppyseed cake made with fresh lemon juice and fragrant lemon zest, layered with lemon buttercream, then finished with smooth vanilla buttercream frosting; and summer strawberry whip cake—a Madagascar vanilla cake layered with fresh strawberries and soft whipped cream.

There is also a new key lime pie with a graham cracker crust as its foundation and topped with fresh Chantilly whipped cream.

SusieCakes is at 2043 Westcliff Dr., #104, Newport Beach. To learn more and to view the complete SusieCakes menu, visit www.susiecakes.com.

The post Salt & Straw and SusieCakes Celebrate Summer with Sweet Treats appeared first on Newport Beach News.

While learning Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in the third session of the high school version of the TEEN CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program offered by the Newport Beach Fire Department, Agzour recalls thinking, “When will I ever have to use this?”

That answer came just one year later, along with a calling — to become a fireman/ paramedic. In fact, Agzour (now 20) earned his Emergency Medical Technician license while attending Newport Harbor High School. He’s currently enrolled at Orange Coast College, taking the required courses okn hid way to studying Engineering, hopefully, he says, at California State University, Pomona.

Upon earning his BS degree, Agzour plans to immediately apply for the fire service, with the ultimate goal of assignment to Emergency Medical Services.

“I know that a lot of guys want to fight fires, and I’ll probably get flack for wanting to be in EMS, but that’s my dream,” Agzour emphasized. Virtually all firefighters are trained EMTs; becoming a certified EMS requires hundreds of hours more of intensive and specialized training. In fact, today, more than 90 percent of all fire calls require life-saving services.

“What I really like about the TEEN CERT program is that I could really help a lot of people with this knowledge. I learned things like triage, how to splint, how to properly use a fire extinguisher, how to use a defibrillator, and how to do search and rescue,” Agzour shared.

As a young person, Agzour sat with interest (but little spark) during the after-school CERT program. But on one of the class days, a fire engine pulled up, then unexpectedly turned on its lights and sirens. That’s when “I truly turned on to the program and its potential as a career,” he said.

Agzour is quick to acknowledge that the TEEN CERT program is more than just lifesaving and preparation. “It’s a lot of fun, and you meet people you’d normally never meet.”

Another CERT student and recent Corona del Mar High School graduate Damian Agzour, 18, will be attending Texas Christian University on scholarship after summer vacation, which one might argue, isn’t actually a vacation, for he spends his days as a fully qualified Newport Beach Fire Department ocean lifeguard. It’s the perfect fit for the nationally and highly ranked competitive swimmer and water polo athlete.

Despite entering university as a Business Finance major with a minor in Energy Business, Agzour sees this period of life as an exploration to see “what I want to do going to college. I have options: Do I want to go into business or do I want to be a firefighter/lifeguard?” said Stephenson.

For his senior high school project, Stephenson authored a detailed, 10-page paper on firefighting, and had reached out to Fire Department Public Information Officer David Gibson (himself a former firefighter/paramedic) as his mentor. It was through Gibson that Stephenson found out about CERT and the city’s lifeguard service. “I could really see myself doing that,” Stephenson thought.

The CERT program for both adults and students is run by Gibson, who Stephenson compliments as having “done a great job the way he set up every unit; they’re easy to learn and understand, and you grasp a lot of knowledge overall.”

Beyond the learning part, Stephenson said CERT allowed him to become “more involved with the community and get access to various parts of the service community; it’s such a close community,” he enthused.

Fire PIO Gibson explained that TEEN CERT is a “student-focused emergency preparedness and public safety program designed to introduce young people to basic disaster response, disaster psychology, first aid, fire safety, leadership, teamwork and community service.”

TEEN CERT also provides exposure to future pathways into the fire service, lifeguarding, search and rescue, emergency management, public safety, building construction and other related careers.

To date, more than 200 students have graduated from the program, with several voicing interest in the fire service. Overall, it’s preparation for what has at one time or another impacted Newport Beach: earthquakes, fires, tsunamis, severe storms, power outages, and even acts of terrorism.

In 1908, British Army Lt.-General Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden Powell, founder of the Boy Scouts, coined the Scout motto: Be Prepared. Newport Beach TEEN CERT certainly takes that to heart.

For information on the TEEN CERT program, contact David Gibson at (949) 644-3112, or email NBCERT@nbfd.net.

The post Newport Beach TEEN CERT Program Inspires Future First Responders appeared first on Newport Beach News.

While the grants reach into every corner of the County and cover a wide range of requests (some wildly creative, some seemingly mundane) they share a common purpose: investing in the behind-the-scenes people, systems and spaces that allow nonprofits to do well by doing more and from a position of organizational strength.

This year’s grants showcase ideas that bring assistance directly into neighborhoods; transportation that helps seniors, children and adults with disabilities stay connected to care, school and community; technology and robotics education that expands learning opportunities; leadership development and organizational improvements that prevent pervasive talent burnout and brain drain; and housing and community facilities that provide safety, stability and opportunity for Orange County’s most vulnerable residents.

Since announcing the Breakaway and Build OC inaugural grants in Fall 2025, the Samueli Foundation has awarded $32 million to 235 nonprofit organizations in just nine months, a record-setting pace for the main philanthropic vehicle founded by Newport Beach residents Henry and Susan Samueli.

The Foundation completed this work in addition to its other core grantmaking which exceeded $130 million in 2025 and is on pace to reach over $180 million in 2026.

“A beautiful home will crumble without proper investments in its plumbing and infrastructure; the same is true in the nonprofit sector,” said Lindsey Spindle, president of the Samueli Family Philanthropies. “Our nonprofits show up for Orange County’s most vulnerable, even when their own operations suffer from underinvestment. And so, our community funds are designed to show up for the nonprofits in hopes of addressing critical needs that many funders can’t, won’t, or haven’t yet funded. Behind every successful nonprofit program are the people, technology, vehicles, facilities, and operational support that make the work possible. Our open call funds exist to cover these necessities.”

Investing in What Makes Impact Possible

Many philanthropic grants are restricted to program delivery. The Samueli Foundation established the Breakaway and Build OC Funds in May 2025 following insights gleaned from research they commissioned earlier that year. The research showed significant gaps in investments that often receive the least attention but that make everything else possible – including less sexy capital projects such as renovations and repairs, or upgrades to technology that enables smoother response to community need.

Breakaway Fund grants (one-time unrestricted payments between $50,000-$100,000) strengthen nonprofit capacity by paying for “systems and stuff,” “leadership development,” and “outside expertise.” Larger dollar Build OC Fund grants invest in the physical places where communities receive care and support. Laced together, the two funds recognize that stronger nonprofits require more than program funding—they also need the operational and capital investments that allow their missions to grow and endure.

Locally, one Newport Beach nonprofit and two Laguna Beach nonprofits received grants.

American Academy of Pediatrics District IX Chapter IV off Newport Beach, Glennwood Housing Foundation, Inc. of Laguna Beach and Sally’s Fund Inc. of Laguna Beach were each recipients of Samueli Foundation grants.

The Samueli Foundation’s mission is to make Orange County a vibrant mosaic of community well-being. The Foundation works closely with the constellation of Samueli Family-backed for-profit and nonprofit organizations to ensure that giving back to the community is central to everything they do. These include the Anaheim Ducks Foundation, the San Diego Gulls Foundation, the Irvine Ice Foundation, The Rinks Foundation, and OC Sports & Entertainment, which oversees the family’s sports and entertainment assets, including the Anaheim Ducks, the San Diego Gulls and the Honda Center.

Over the last 25 years, the Samueli Family, through its various entities, has contributed more than $1 billion in charitable grants.

Visit www.samueli.org for more information.

The post Samueli Foundation of Corona del Mar Announces $15 Million Grants to 89 OC Nonprofits appeared first on Newport Beach News.

On June 18, Hoag Hospital Foundation’s 38th Annual Hoag Summer Fest achieved unprecedented success, welcoming more than 1,400 guests for an unforgettable evening celebrating philanthropy, community, and world-class culinary experiences.

Held at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, the event was made possible through the generous support of 25 sponsors and underwriters, led by presenting sponsor Woodside Credit, along with more than 50 restaurant and beverage partners who showcased the very best of Orange County’s vibrant dining scene.

Guests enjoyed exceptional food and beverage tastings, live entertainment from the beloved Tijuana Dogs, and the opportunity to support Hoag’s mission of advancing exceptional health care across the region.

Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Hoag’s donors, friends, and community supporters, the event raised a record-breaking $552,850—the highest fundraising total in Hoag Summer Fest’s 38-year history.

Proceeds from the evening will benefit the Boldly Hoag campaign, which is driving the transformative expansion of the Hoag Hospital Irvine Sun Family Campus. The new facilities, opening this Fall, will significantly enhance access to leading-edge cancer care, women’s health services, digestive health programs, and advanced surgical capabilities, ensuring more Orange County residents receive world-class care close to home.

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America’s fastest-growing sport meets wine country at Sip N’ Dink, Southern California’s first Wine & Pickleball Tournament.

On Saturday, August 1, 2026, players, winemakers and wine enthusiasts will gather at The Tennis & Pickleball Club at Newport Beach for a first-of-its-kind event combining competitive pickleball, premium wine, food, and philanthropy in support of Miracles for Kids.

The event starts at 1 p.m. and goes until 6 p.m.

Unlike a traditional wine festival or pickleball tournament, Sip N’ Dink pairs players with winery teams before the first serve. Participants compete in a round-robin tournament representing premier wineries from California, Washington and New Zealand, then gather for a Grand Tasting featuring wines from every participating winery.

“Wine lovers and pickleball players are often the same person – active, social, and competitive, and spanning a much wider range of ages than people think. Winemakers are fiercely competitive in their craft, so putting them on the court felt natural. There’s nothing like Sip N’ Dink anywhere in the world right now,” said Naushad Huda, founder of Grape Night, an immersive wine experience company that is producing Sip N’ Dink.

The tournament welcomes players of every skill level. Rather than competing as individuals, participants are drafted onto one of 10 winery teams, creating an atmosphere that blends friendly competition with camaraderie. Each winery will have its own team colors, winemaker representation, and wines featured during the Grand Tasting. Participating wineries include:

• Lone Madrone, Paso Robles
• Whitehall Lane, Napa Valley
• The Landing, Bay of Islands, New Zealand
• Salvestrin, Napa Valley
• AJA Vineyards, Malibu Coast
• Chappellet, Napa Valley
• Foundry Vineyards, Walla Walla
• Brasswood, Napa Valley
• Bianchi, Paso Robles
• John Anthony Vineyards, Napa Valley

Guests will experience wineries in a new way – watching winemakers compete on the court before connecting over wine during the Grand Tasting. Sip N’ Dink transforms traditional wine tasting into an interactive experience built around conversation, competition, and community.

More than a sporting event or wine festival, Sip N’ Dink was designed with a charitable mission at its core. A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit Miracles for Kids, the Orange County nonprofit that has spent over two decades helping families with critically ill children overcome financial hardship, housing instability, food insecurity, and other challenges that accompany a child’s medical crisis.

Presenting sponsor, The Raad Life, will host a live, on-site podcast studio featuring interviews with participating winemakers, tastemakers, and other VIP guests.

The Raad Life is a cultural platform and lifestyle brand focused on helping people redefine midlife through storytelling, design, wellness, and personal reinvention. Supporting sponsors include Fletcher Jones Motorcars, CRBN Pickleball and The Elwood Club, whose participation helps expand the event while increasing support for Miracles for Kids.

Tickets and Player Registration are $200 per person and include Tournament entry, Grand Tasting admission, food and refreshments, athlete lounge access, and awards ceremony.

Spectator and Grand Tasting Pass tickets are $125 per person and include Tournament viewing, Grand Tasting admission, food and refreshments, and awards ceremony.

For additional information and for tickets, visit https://grapenight.com.

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