Blog
Christine Brennan to Speak at 27th Witte Lectures
02.19.25
The Newport Beach Public Library Foundation presents the 27th Witte Lectures, featuring award-winning sports journalist Christine Brennan.
Brennan’s talk, “Today Is the Greatest Day for Women in Sports – Until Tomorrow: The Story of Title IX and the Empowerment of Women in Sports,” will explore the impact of Title IX and the evolution of women’s sports.
The lecture will take place at the Friends Room at the Central Library, located at 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach on the following dates:
- Friday, Feb. 21, 7–9 p.m. (includes a light supper and wine)
- Saturday, Feb. 22, 2–4 p.m. (includes refreshments)
Brennan is a national sports columnist for USA TODAY, a commentator for ABC News, CNN, and PBS NewsHour, and a nationally known speaker. She is the bestselling author of Inside Edge, which was named one of the top 100 sports books of all time by Sports Illustrated. A veteran of 21 Olympic Games, she has been recognized multiple times as one of the country’s top 10 sports columnists by the Associated Press Sports Editors.
Her upcoming book on Caitlin Clark is highly anticipated and expected to be a compelling read for sports fans and those interested in resilience and achievement.
Event details:
Lecture, book sale, and signing
Friends Room, Central Library
Friday, Feb. 21, 7 p.m. | Saturday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m.
Seating is limited. Individual tickets are on sale now here.
Blog
Napa in Newport: An Evening of Fine Wine, Dining, and Giving
02.18.25
Renowned for its exceptional showcase of Napa Valley’s finest wines, Napa in Newport returns for its 11th annual gala on March 1, 2025, at the luxurious Pendry Newport Beach. This highly anticipated event promises an unforgettable evening, seamlessly blending world-class wine, gourmet cuisine, and a steadfast commitment to philanthropy.
Guests will experience an exclusive Grand Tasting featuring limited-production wines from Napa’s most sought-after vintners, with Morlet Family Vineyards serving as the Honorary Vintner Chair. The evening will include a meticulously curated dinner by Chef Philip Tessier of PRESS restaurant in St. Helena, followed by an exhilarating live auction featuring rare wines, luxury getaways, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
The celebration continues with an exclusive afterparty at the members-only Elwood Club, where elevated cocktails, soulful performances by The Dave Stephens Band, and a sophisticated ambiance will provide the perfect finale to an extraordinary night. With limited attendance and exclusive weekend packages that include premium accommodations, this gala is set to redefine luxury and intimacy.
This year’s event shines a spotlight on Morlet Family Vineyards, led by Luc and Jodie Morlet, who craft vins de terroir and unique cuvées that marry classic French winemaking traditions with California’s distinct terroirs. Known for their intensity, richness, and refinement, each small-production wine is designed to showcase complexity and aging potential.
Adding to the evening’s prestige, Chef Philip Tessier, a Michelin-starred chef, author, and mentor, will present a gourmet dining experience. As Chef/Partner at PRESS, a World’s 50 Best Discovery restaurant, he is celebrated for his modern, refined approach to American cuisine. His expertise will bring an unparalleled culinary dimension to the gala, perfectly complementing Napa Valley’s finest wines.
"Napa in Newport has become more than just a gala—it’s a symbol of hope, progress, and community,” shared Debra Miller, Founder and CEO of CureDuchenne. “For over a decade, this extraordinary event has united wine enthusiasts and philanthropists in our shared mission to transform the future for those living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Each glass raised and every dollar donated brings us closer to life-changing treatments and, ultimately, a cure. This year’s gala promises to be our most inspiring yet, and I am deeply grateful to our vintners, sponsors, and supporters for their unwavering dedication to our cause."
Benefiting CureDuchenne, a global leader in research, patient care, and innovation, the event supports efforts to improve and extend the lives of individuals affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy—a devastating disease impacting approximately 1 in 5,000 male births. To date, Napa in Newport has raised over $11 million to advance critical research and treatment.
Event sponsors include South Coast Plaza and The Caviar Company.
Sponsorships, tables and tickets are available. For more information on tickets, sponsorships, participating vintners, and silent auction, please visit napainnewport.org.
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