January crowd jazzes it up

A crowd of jazz lovers came together to support the Ocean Institute

at the scenic rim of Dana Point Harbor.

It was a Saturday evening “Jazz in January” concert with

Grammy-winning saxophonist Eric Marienthal, the talented nephew of

Newport’s late celebrated restaurateur Hans Prager. Marienthal was

exceptionally cool, impressing the approximately 200 guests who

raised more than $80,000 for the work of the Ocean Institute.

“The premiere interactive ocean education and research facility in

Orange County, the Institute educates students and teachers in ocean

awareness, marine life and maritime history,” said Sally Combe,

representing the facility.

Chaired by Newport business leader Tim McMahon of Grubb & Ellis,

the party was more of a family gathering with a wonderful meal

prepared by local star chefs than a charity affair. The spirit of the

party, attended by many guests from the Newport-Mesa community, was

decidedly mellow, very warm and friendly. The crowd was united in the

purpose of protecting the ocean environment.

The sounds of Marienthal just made it all so much sweeter.

Enjoying conversation, cuisine -- provided by Roy’s of Newport

Beach, the Montage, the St. Regis, the Ritz-Carlton and other

generous contributors -- and wines by Mondavi were a number of local

Ocean Institute patrons. The list included Mel and Linda Chambers,

Rick and Bonnie Choate, Gene and Shelly Curcio, Haim and Sara

Feigenbaum, Bob Frear, Dennis and Raelyn Luckow Gabrick, Dan and

Rosalie Gee, and Marshall and Jacinta Kaplan.

Also in the crowd were Dan Labelle, David and Andrea Lee, Mike and

Shelia Lefkowitz, Tim and Carol McMahon, and Northern Trust Bank’s

distinguished Betty Mower and Ken Potalivo.

* THE CROWD appears Thursdays and Saturdays.