SPOTLIGHT

BALBOA BEACH BLANKET BARBECUE

They don’t quack. They don’t peck. But they sure can float. On Sept.

9, the first Surfin’ Ducky Wave Race will have the rubber critters

bobbing in the water in a mad dash -- actually a slow crawl -- to the

shore after being dropped from a boat.

The ducky race is part of the Balboa Beach Blanket Barbecue, an

old-fashioned afternoon event with proceeds to benefit the renovation of

the Balboa Theatre. The picnic is being organized by the Divas of the

Balboa Theater Foundation.

There will be a kite flying contest, a hula hoop competition, a

three-legged race, a water balloon toss -- all of the things you’d want

from a community picnic, even music. The Nomads, a surf band, is

scheduled to play.

There will even be a cutest bathing beauty contest for children ages 2

and younger. All together now -- “Awwwwwww.”

Best of all, the admission is free. It’s the proceeds from the sale of

barbecue and ducky race entries that will make money for the theater.

Sounds like a good way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

FYI

What: Balboa Beach Blanket Barbecue

Where: Balboa Peninsula Park, adjacent to the Balboa Pier

When: Noon to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free. Ducks for the ducky race can be purchased for $5 each. The

first 10 to hit the sand win prizes.

Contact: (949) 646-5161

Let the good times roll at Saturday benefit

MARDI GRAS AND CASINO NIGHT

Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Orange County will hold a Mardi Gras

and Casino Night at the Village Crean Mansion in Newport Beach at 6 p.m

Saturday. A live jazz band and a Cajun-style dinner will spice up the

party. There will also be a silent auction and casino tables.

FYI

What: Mardi Gras and Casino Night

Where: Village Crean Mansion in Newport Beach

When: 6 p.m. Saturday

Cost: $50 to benefit Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Orange County

Contact: (714) 544-7773

PLANNING AHEAD

SANDCASTLE CONTEST

Work on your building skills and your tan at the Commodores Club’s

40th annual Sandcastle contest. The often-quirky temporary sculptures are

fun to look at.

Sunday, Sept. 9

TASTE OF NEWPORT

Nibble and nosh at this three day event that features foods from some

of the best restaurants in the area, not to mention fabulous music.

Friday through Sunday, Sept. 14-16

NUMERICALLY SPEAKING

2: No. of days, including today, until school starts. Get your rest

and relaxation in while you can.