Category: Orange County News

Sherman Library and Gardens in Corona del Mar Unveils Community Mural Installation

Sherman Library & Gardens is known for its artistic and rich variety of flowers and plants. Now, thanks to the generosity of Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley, City of Newport Beach and Mayor Pro Tem Lauren Kleiman, art has bloomed beyond Sherman’s garden walls. It was a rain or shine Read More

Remembering Jim Self and Ted Smith: Pacific Symphony Loses Two of Its Brightest Lights

Pacific Symphony has lost two of its brightest lights: tubist Jim Self and ardent supporter Ted Smith. According to Pacific Symphony President and CEO John Forsyte, longtime principal tubist and composer Jim Self has died. “Jim’s artistry and big heart defined Pacific Symphony for close to four decades,” said Forsyte. Read More

Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Coast to Transform into St. Regis Estate in 2027

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has unveiled St. Regis Estates, an ultra-exclusive brand expression reserved for legacy-rich, leisure-led estates—rarified hotels defined by significant history, expansive grounds, and extraordinary amenities. Born from a rising desire for privacy, authenticity, and a deeper emotional connection to place, St. Regis Estates brings the House Read More

Blueberry Hugs Laguna Beach Boutique Showcases Handmade Ceramics and Artisan Goods

What began as a personal project to share the joy Angel Zhang felt when using artisanal tableware at home has grown into a boutique that feels akin to a gallery. “The store’s name comes from my daughter’s nickname, Blueberry, and symbolizes warmth, love, and family,” Zhang says. “My hope is Read More

Roger’s Gardens Turns Into a Holiday Wonderland

“Heirloom-quality European glass ornaments are always among the most sought-after pieces, particularly those that feel personal—whether it’s a favorite animal, travel memory, or whimsical holiday motif.” “This year’s boutique features an enchanting mix of European handblown ornaments, handmade silk botanical decor pieces from our in-house original designs team, and themed Read More

Stone Groove Stillhouse: A Distillery Where Music Shapes Whiskey

It took a few beats to wrap my head around just how music could influence the flavor of a spirit. That’s the whole idea behind those produced at Jeff and Christa Duggan’s new concept, Stone Groove Stillhouse. It’s a distillery, bar, and 50-seat restaurant that, in addition to musically infused Read More

Newport Beach City Council Unanimously Approves Amending Municipal Code to Enhance Enforcement of Bicycle and E-Bike Regulations

Pedego e-bikesBicycle safety has long been an issue in Newport Beach, but it’s become even more important given the increased use of electric-powered bicycles, or E-Bikes, by many community members, especially youth. Now, the Newport Beach City Council is weighing in on the issue. According to a November 4 City Read More

Behind the Velvet Rope: Inside the Newport Beach Film Festival Through an Intern’s Lens

By Zoe Luczaj | Special to the NB Indy Let me set the scene. The ocean hums softly behind the red carpet. The sun dips behind the sand as bulbs flash in its place. Another year of the Newport Beach Film Festival begins, and I was there to bear witness—not Read More

Newport Beach Film Festival Bows Out with Guillermo del Toro’s Towering ‘Frankenstein’

By Zoe Luczaj | Special to the NB Indy The Newport Beach Film Festival concluded its 2025 slate on Thursday, Oct. 23 with Guillermo del Toro’s long-awaited “Frankenstein,” a nearly three-hour gothic epic that filled both the historic Lido Theater and the Regal Edwards Big Newport screens. The screening marked Read More