Blog
GLOW Coalition Hosts First Fundraiser for Save Newport Nature
09.25.25
Join the GLOW Coalition for an evening of music, connection, and purpose on Tuesday, Sept. 30, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the newly renovated Duffy Rentals space, 2001 W. Coast Hwy. in Newport Beach.
This first community fundraiser supports Save Newport Nature, a grassroots effort to preserve the 1.5-acre open space next to the Environmental Nature Center (ENC) and its preschool.
Here’s what’s planned:
• Live music by Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Eric Marienthal and special guests
• Pizza and tray-passed bites from The Hardware House Kitchen
• Wine from Hi-Time Wine Cellars
• Beer and seltzer from Brewery X
• A first look inside the beautifully remodeled Duffy space, now Newport’s newest gathering spot
Tickets are available at SaveNewportNature.org
GLOW (Grassroots, Land, Organizing & Wellness) Coalition is a Newport Beach nonprofit working to protect local natural spaces through community organizing, education, and advocacy. Its Protect the ENC campaign is focused on stopping a proposed 30-unit development next to the ENC and preschool that would bring noise, safety issues, and the loss of a rare community resource.
Learn more, get involved, or purchase tickets at SaveNewportNature.org
Blog
Ilissa Michele Jewelry: Purpose-Driven, Handmade, and One-of-a-Kind
09.24.25
Looking for a unique gift? Ilissa Michele Jewelry creates handmade chains with matching clasps using one-of-a-kind gemstone beads. Each piece is designed to layer, mix, and personalize. The collection includes necklaces with pendants, layering necklaces, chokers, bracelets, and pendants. Mom-owned and purpose-driven, Ilissa Michele Jewelry makes every gift both beautiful and meaningful.
For 18 years, founder Ilissa Michele dedicated herself to raising her children, calling it the most important job in the world. As her children grew, she began to explore self-care and a new chapter of creativity. Drawn to working with her hands, she experimented with pottery, knitting, and painting before realizing her true passion.
That passion sparked the moment she walked into a bead store in New York City. Surrounded by stones and beads, she began designing and crafting jewelry. Self-taught, she learned to work with tools and materials, experimenting until she created her first sellable necklace.
The journey from hobby to business began on an airplane. While wearing one of her designs, a fellow passenger admired her necklace and asked where she could buy one. When Ilissa explained that it was her own creation, the woman purchased it right off her neck. That chance encounter inspired her to launch Ilissa Michele Jewelry, sharing her designs with the world.
Each piece reflects Ilissa’s personal style, blending boho chic with individuality and statement-making detail. Every necklace and bracelet tells a story, crafted with intention and care.
Explore the collection at ilissamichele.com
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from the blog
- 03.21.26 – Cape Crusaders, Cosplay and Comic-Con Energy Take Over Anaheim
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