TOP 3 MARCH FAVES
KYM WHITNEY - ZAY'Z ARTISANAL DELI
Zay'Z Artisanal Deli is quickly becoming a Balboa Island staple known for fresh, house-made focaccia sandwiches crafted daily with high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re planning a casual gathering, hosting an event, or packing up for a Duffy boat outing, their artisanal sandwiches are a perfect grab-and-go option. The menu also includes breakfast sandwiches, salads, charcuterie platters, and sweet treats—making it easy to please any crowd. A few personal favorites: The Zay, Queen Bee, and The Big Egg & Cheese.
www.zayzdeli.com
MANDY HUNTSMAN - COACH JESSE BRIGGS, TURNING NON-SWIMMERS INTO JR. LIFEGUARDS
If you live in Newport, you know the annual Junior Lifeguard swim test is more than a milestone—it’s a rite of passage. For over two decades, one local legend has helped kids approach that moment not with fear, but with confidence. For 22 years, Jesse has been a trusted name in the Newport Beach coaching community. While his experience spans multiple aquatic programs, his true passion is Junior Guard training. What sets him apart isn’t just technical expertise, but his ability to shift a child’s mindset—helping hesitant swimmers become strong, water-safe athletes.
“When a child between 9 and 13 reaches a goal they never thought possible, that confidence stays with them,” Jesse shares. “It carries into other challenges they once thought were out of reach.”
For Jesse, the real win isn’t the stopwatch—it’s the moment a child realizes their own potential. Whether your child is working to improve their time or building confidence from the ground up, Jesse’s patient, expert approach is why he remains a top pick season after season. Contact Jesse to learn more about his Junior Guard training sessions.
Coach.Jesse.Briggs@gmail.com
JULIE MEANS - CORONA DEL MAR HOME TOUR
Spectacular design and stunning homes come together for one very special day in our amazing seaside community during the 52nd Annual Corona del Mar Home Tour on Friday, March 13. This is the one and only fundraiser benefiting students, teachers and staff at Corona del Mar Middle and High Schools. It’s also one of my favorite days during the year, as friends gather to gaze at the elevated and exquisite homes on display. There’s so much to see and do, as the day begins with breakfast, a boutique and check-in at the Newport Beach CIvic Center. The CdM drumline provides energy for the guests who go on a self-guided tour of the six to eight homes on display from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is a wonderful respite at the civic center as well, highlighted by student performances. The day concludes with a fabulous after party.
Seeing so many imaginative, creative and well-planned spaces is incredible, but what makes the tour so much fun is connecting with friends old and new while oohing and ahhing over the latest looks for our indoor/outdoor coastal lifestyle. Finding that special treasure at the boutique, sharing lunch, being inspired by students and celebrating the successful event organized by the CdM PTA with friends is a wonderful way to connect with our community. I hope to see you on the tour!
cdmhometour.org
