🎨 From microchips to masterpieces: let Sangeetha's art warm your hearts

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Let’s be honest: Newport Beach isn’t exactly short on charm. But this week, we found a few places that crank it up to eleven: pink sauce pasta with a side of birthday singing, magical mermaid makeovers, and an art fest that turns the Civic Center into a living gallery.

Also: big moves near John Wayne Airport, adoptable pet tips, and... a job post. Yup, we’re on the hunt for someone who loves this city and knows how to make great content about it.

Could be you. Could be your creative friend. Scroll to the bottom, give this issue some love, and comment how we could connect!

🍝 Pasta, Pink Sauce & Pure Joy

Step into Mama D’s and you’ll swear half of Newport Beach is here: laughing over lasagna, twirling gnocchi, and clinking glasses under the glow of funky décor.

The house-favorite pink sauce steals the show, but it’s the staff (learning your name, slipping you ravioli, singing at birthdays!) that makes it unforgettable. Loud, lively, and loaded with charm, this is Italian comfort at its most celebratory. Learn more here.

🧜‍♀️ Where Mermaids Throw the Best Parties

Balboa Island has plenty of charm, but Once Upon An Island adds a splash of straight-up wonder. One minute your kid is in sneakers, the next they’re in a swimmable tail or sipping tea with a tiara.

Parties here run like clockwork thanks to hosts who never break character, and their Christmas North Pole setup could melt the grinchiest heart. It’s the kind of spot locals quietly brag about to visiting friends. Learn more here.

🎨 From Engineering to Art: Sangeetha Gopalakrishnan

The Gist: After nearly two decades designing computer chips, Irvine artist Sangeetha Gopalakrishnan traded circuits for canvas. Inspired by her hikes across California’s mountains, deserts, and redwoods, she now paints vivid oil landscapes with eco-friendly, non-toxic materials. A California Green Business Certified artist, she’s proud to create sustainably.

Why it matters: Neighbors can see her work up close at Newport Beach’s 20th Annual Art in the Park on Saturday, Sept. 20 at the Civic Center: a celebration of creativity rooted in both community and nature. Read more here.

🚏 Newport Beach eyes new transit hub near JWA

The Gist: Newport Beach has purchased land on Campus Drive, near John Wayne Airport, to explore creating a new transit center in partnership with OCTA. The move comes as the current hub near Fashion Island may eventually be repurposed for a new fire station.

Why it matters: A relocated hub could better serve future housing and residents near the airport, while keeping public transit strong in the city. A joint feasibility study with OCTA will determine if the site is a good fit. Read more here.

Say hello to Willow, a lively German Shepherd mix who’s bright and charming!

At just over a year old, this medium-sized pup has a playful streak, a sharp mind, and a heart ready for her forever family. She’s quick to learn, loves treats and toys, and is happiest when she has a buddy to romp with.

Her unique ear gives her extra character and makes her unforgettable. Adoption fee is $85 at Newport Beach Animal Shelter.

To learn more about this sweet girl, click HERE.

🎶 B.I.G. Live | Campus Jax | Newport Beach | 09/19 | More
A night of smooth jazz, old-school funk, and soulful originals.

🖌️ 20th Annual Art in the Park | Civic Center | Newport Beach | 09/20 | More
Celebrate the arts with jewelry, textiles, photography, and more!

🌍 Coastal Cleanup Day | Multiple Bay Sites | Newport Beach | 09/20 | More
Families, scouts, and community groups unite to keep the Bay clean and healthy.

🎶 Simply Crafted Market | Westcliff Plaza | Newport Beach | 09/20 | More
Enjoy fall vibes with artisan treasures, kids crafts, and free gifts for guests in sailor hats!

🍹 Domingos Criollos Sunday | El Mercado | Newport Beach | 09/21 | More
An evening of Peruvian flavors, cocktails, and vibrant Criolla sounds.

🌴 Chandon Pop-Up Brunch Party | RED O Taste of Mexico | Newport Beach | 09/21 | More
A stylish Sunday brunch featuring Chandon Spritzes, live beats, and sunny outdoor vibes.

If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.