B.W. COOK -- The Crowd

The attack on America forces us to reevaluate our priorities in life.

One of the goals of the terrorists was to undermine American society. The

only thing that each citizen can constructively and purposefully do is

resume life on a full-speed-ahead basis.

As we reevaluate, searching for answers, we also rebuild day to day

and moment to moment by pursuing those activities in our lives that give

us meaning.

I was numb on Tuesday, unable to write a society column. It seemed

frivolous and unimportant in the face of world events. Strangely, 24

hours later, I am eager to resume work. It is the best that I can do, in

a very small and insignificant way, to reestablish a community connection

with many local individuals who care very much about making a difference

in society.

I am honored to share with you the fact that a multitude of

Newport-Mesa residents have respectfully canceled events this week. At

enormous cost and with great effort, Opera Pacific, working with hostess

Susan Samueli of Corona del Mar, called more than 250 guests on Tuesday

to postpone their fall luncheon and fashion show.

Traditional Jewelers delayed a Tuesday evening reception for

Breitling. It was to be an evening with Brian Jones, pilot of the hot-air

balloon Breitling Orbiter 3, and was to be held at the clubhouse at

Pelican Hill.

Other major events around town were respectfully rescheduled in memory

of those whose lives were lost in the attack on America. Many more groups

are scrambling to determine a proper course of action in the coming days

and weeks ahead. It may be wise to check with any given charity if you

are planning to attend an event this weekend.

In the spirit of goodwill, and with belief that life is ever lasting,

we move forward and communicate some of the positive accomplishments that

have recently transpired in our community.

South Coast Repertory held an opening night premiere reception

launching its current season with a production of “The Circle.� The

award-winning SCR hosted loyal season ticket holders, cast members and

donors at an after-show reception produced by Frette at South Coast

Plaza.

The upscale fine linen and clothing store with Italian roots welcomed

more than 400 guests to the reception that also lauded the honorary

producer of “The Circle,� American Airlines.

Airline executives Bob Howe and Ed Stradling joined Frette manager

Lynn Walker and South Coast Repertory founders Martin Benson and David

Emmes in the lively and upbeat crowd.

The Divas of the Balboa Theater Arts Foundation held a picnic in the

park on Sunday to celebrate their progress relating to the renovation of

the old Balboa Theater. Peninsula Park filled with hundreds of supporters

brought together by chairwomen Debbie Newmeyer and Debbie Schweickert.

Also involved were Divas President Eve Kornyei and Vice President

Joanne Pavia. They called the party “The Balboa Beach Blanket Barbecue�

and the aroma of ribs prepared by Clayton Shurley’s Real BBQ attracted

beachgoers from all around the Newport Peninsula.

Music was provided by The Nomads, a popular surf band, and the

highlight of the afternoon was the Surfin’ Ducky Wave Race. Organizers

sold rubber ducks for $5, then collected all of the “quackers,� put them

in a boat and took them offshore, releasing the rubber ducks in the

ocean. The first 10 ducks to hit the sand were awarded prizes.

In the crowd were Carol Julian, Philomena Mark, Denice Mock, Lana

Chandler, Fran Mulvania and Sue Cannon.

* THE CROWD appears Thursdays and Saturdays.