The Barclay Theatre is hosting a free virtual event: National Geographic Live Backstage. Through the Lens: Solastalgia is produced by the Nat Geo Museum. National Geographic Explorer and Photographer, Pete Muller, will hold an online conversation about solastalgia, the emotional and existential distress caused by climate change.  He will use current events, the pandemic and the Camp Fire, to examine these issues. Muller will be sharing his photography and clips from Rebuilding Paradise. National Geographic Live has been one of Barclay’s most popular virtual events. The show will take place on Tuesday, November 10^th, beginning at 4pm. It is free to participate, but you must pre-register. For more information or to reserve you spot; see their website at: 

https://www.thebarclay.org/buy-tickets/national-geographic-live-backstage/solastalgia.html.

Newport Beach is one of the oldest Orange County city’s being incorporated in 1906. The population of Newport Beach is approximately 85,000 residents. Located at 51 Balboa Coves, this 3,000 square foot home is part of the Balboa Coves development. This five bedroom, three bathroom home was built in 1962. There are lovely views of the Newport Bay from the home. This home sits on a 4,900 square foot piece of waterfront property. The home has a dock.  Outdoors, the home features a gated courtyard and mature landscaping.  Balboa Coves is a 24-hour guard gated community at the end of a private cul-de-sac. There are just 68 homes in this neighborhood. 

Irvine is was begun by The Irvine Company in the 1960’s and was incorporated in 1971.  This 66 square mile city is made-up of 34 unique Villages. Located at 52 Peacevine, this 3,900 square foot home is part of the Lambert Ranch development in the Portola Springs Village. This five bedroom, six bathroom home was built in 2013. There is a main level master suite. The gourmet kitchen features top of the line appliances, a large island and a butler’s pantry. The home has nearly panoramic views of Newport Beach, Fashion Island, Irvine Valley and the city night lights.  This home sits on a 5,700 square foot piece of property, with a cul-de-sac setting. There are not any Mello Roos taxes in Lambert Ranch. The homeowner’s association offers many amenities including a swimming pool, clubhouse and spa.  There are 25 home tracts in Portola Springs offering a mix of condos, townhomes, villas and single-family residences. 

Just Sold by Michael Franco in Pelican Crest

Michael Franco of MWA Luxury Real Estate just sold 5 Skycrest in Pelican Crest. Pelican Crest is part of the Pelican Hilldevelopment in Newport Coast. 5 Skycrest is a 9,500 square foot home has five bedrooms and seven bathrooms. This home sold for nearly eleven million dollars, which is approximately $1150 a square foot. The nearly panoramic views include the Pacific Ocean, surrounding mountains, city night lights and sunsets. The 30,000 square foot piece of property has swimming pool, spa, gazebo, built-in barbeque area and rose garden. This residence is the number one architecture design award winner in Newport Coast.  Newport Coast is home to Pelican Hill and its five developments, Crystal Cove and many other residential developments. Crystal Cove State Park and Beach and Pelican Hill Resort, Spa and Golf Courses are also part of the Newport Coast. Although this home is off the market, Michael has many more properties to inspire you, in Crystal Cove, Pelican Hill and Newport Coast. Michael is always available at 949-200-2383 or at michael@mwaluxury.com.

4 Baffin Bay in Crystal Cove was just sold by Michael Franco

Michael Franco of MWA Luxury Real Estate recently sold the home located at 4 Baffin Bay in the Crystal Cove in Newport Coast. Newport Coast has many wonderful areas such as Crystal Cove and Pelican Hill. Whether you are buying, selling, or both, Michael Franco will walk you smoothly through the process. This 3,500 square foot home sits on a 6,900 square foot piece of property.  This is a four bedroom, three and half bathroom home which was built in 2001. With views of the Pacific Ocean, white water, city night lights and gorgeous evening sunsets. Crystal Cove offers many amenities, including the Canyon Club Recreational Center, which acts as the social hub of the area. The home sold for 3.3 million dollars, approximately $985 per square foot. This property has been sold, however, Michael has many other properties ready to view in Crystal Cove, Pelican Hill and Newport Coast. To reach Michael, at any time, he is available at 949-200-2383 or at michael@mwaluxury.com.

The Orange County Great Park Farmers Market is open and ready for visitors. Right now, they are operating as a drive thru market. The Farmers Market is open from 10am to 2pm, every Sunday. Every week, you will find fresh, locally grown produce, handcrafted artisan products, live entertainment and food trucks. Some of the vegetables and fruit has been grown at the Great Park Farm. Visitors will have an opportunity to explore the Farm + Food Lab and speak with the UCCE Master Gardeners for home tips. Farmers Market at OC Great Park is located at 6950 Marine Way in Irvine. The admission and parking are free. For more information, see their website at: https://www.cityofirvine.org/orange-county-great-park/farmers-market.

Shady Canyon is a luxury community with three residential developments, Shady Canyon Country Club and Golf Course and plenty of green space. This 800-acre development has approximately 1,000 residents. Located at 31 Prairie Grass, this 4,800 square foot home is part of the Villas of Shady Canyon. This is the plan 3 model, which is single level. This four-bedroom, five-bathroom home was built in 2003. Designed for entertaining, the home has a formal dining room, full-size wet bar and outdoor entertainment area. The home and property have far reaching views of the golf course, lake, surrounding hills and city night lights.  This home sits on a large 13,000 square foot piece of property, with a cul-de-sac setting.  Outdoors, there is a private casita with a kitchenette. Among the many amenities in Shady Canyon are security, swimming pool, spa, tennis courts and golf.  

Irvine is large master planned city designed by the Irvine Company in the 1960’s. The city was incorporated in 1971, is made up of 34 unique villages, each with shopping areas, residential developments, schools and parks. Located at 79 Honeyflower, this 2,600 square foot home is part of the Mulberry development in Cypress Village. This four-bedroom, four bathroom home was built in 2014. The gourmet kitchen features Kitchen Aid stainless steel appliances, maple Shaker cabinets and walk-in pantry. Attention to detail can be seen in the high-volume ceilings, crown moldings, and hardwood floors. This home sits on a 3,600 square foot piece of property, within walking distance to the clubhouse. Cypress Village is in East Irvine at Sand Canyon Road and the I-5 Freeway. This is newer Village in Irvine which was begun in 2013 and is still growing. Neighborhood amenities include a playground, volleyball courts, swimming pool and spa. There are four parks within a short distance Arbor Park, Cypress Grove Park, Cypress Community Park and Floral Park. 

12 Dunes Bluff in Newport Coast, was just sold by Michael Franco

Just recently, Michael Franco, of MWA Luxury Real Estate, sold the home at 12 Dunes Bluff in Newport Coast.  Whether you are buying or selling, Michael Franco offers professional and efficient service in Orange County. He recently handled the listing and sale of the property at 12 Dunes Bluff, which sold for 4.8 million dollars.  This home is 3,800 square feet with four bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. Attention to detail can be seen in the use of stone flooring, wood flooring and elegant moldings. Built in 2005, the home has 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, coastline, whitewater, city night lights and vibrant sunsets.  This home is part of the Crystal Cove development which is located in Newport Coast. Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy an open-air courtyard, outdoor fireplace and guest casita. Crystal Cove is just north of Laguna Beach. Crystal Cove is home to the Crystal Cove State Park, with 3.2 miles of coastline, 400 acres of bluffs, 2,400 acres of canyons and 18 miles of trails. Although, this property has been sold, Michael has many others he can show throughout Crystal Cove and the greater Orange County area. Michael is always available at 949-200-2383 or at michael@mwaluxury.com.

Michael Franco sells 30 Pelican Point Drive in Newport Coast

Michael Franco of MWA Luxury Real Estate sold the estate at 30 Pelican Point Drive in May of 2020.  Michael Franco offers unparalleled real estate services, whether you are buying or selling property in Orange County. 30 Pelican Point sold for $9,000,000. This 7,100 square foot home is part of the Pelican Point development in Pelican Hill. Built in 2005, Villa Del Mare has the finest finishes, inside and out. This is a four-bedroom, seven-bathroom home with a seven-space subterranean garage. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, white water, the Newport Coastline, and the Pelican Hill Golf Course, the property is ideal for entertaining. The custom-built estate has a 400-bottle wine cellar, theater lounge and a Savant Smart Home System. Pelican Point is a 24-hour guard community with just 48 custom built estates. Although, this property has been sold, Michael has many others ready to show you in Pelican Hill, Crystal Cove and Newport Coast. Michael is always available at 949-200-2383 or at michael@mwaluxury.com.

The Great Park Balloon is the one of the biggest attractions at the Orange County Great Park. The Balloon soars 400 feet above the ground, giving guests a 360-degree view that spans 40 miles on clear days. This is one of the largest tethered helium balloons in the world and the first of its kind in the U.S. The Great Park Balloon is open to the public Thursday through Sunday. Thursday and Friday the Balloon is open from 10am to 3pm and again from 7pm to 10pm.  On Saturdays and Sundays, it is open from 9am to 3pm and again from 7pm to 10pm.   The Balloon is closed Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. For more information about the Great Park Balloon, see their website at: https://www.cityofirvine.org/orange-county-great-park/great-park-balloon-carousel. 

Crystal Cove is set in the high bluffs of the Newport Coast section of the Newport Beach.  Crystal Cove is home to several residential developments and the Crystal Cove State Park and Beach. Located at 18 Rockshore Bluff, this 3,800 square foot home is part of the Oceana development.  This four bedroom, five bathroom home was built in 2005. Attention to detail can be seen in the use of marble, custom paint and custom designed master closet. This single level residence has fabulous views of the Pacific Ocean, white water, Catalina Island, city night lights and gorgeous evening sunsets.  This home sits on an 8,900 square foot piece of property with a cul-de-sac setting. Outdoors, there is a covered loggia, outdoor fireplace, saltwater swimming pool, spa and built-in barbeque area.  Students living in Oceana attend schools in the Laguna Beach Unified School District, specifically El Morro Elementary School, Thurston Middle School and Laguna Beach High School. Oceana residents, like all Crystal Cove residents are invited to join in all the resort style recreational activities at the Canyon Club Recreation Center, which acts as the social hub of the area. 

Irvine is a large master planned city in Orange County. This 66 square mile city is surrounded by Tustin, Santa Ana, Lake Forest, Laguna Hills, Costa Mesa and Newport Beach. Located at 29 Orchard, this 875 square foot home is part of the Patio Homes development in the Orange Tree Village. This two bedroom, two bathroom patio home was built in 1977. This single level, detached home was recently remodeled.  The updated kitchen has stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar, granite countertops and recessed lighting. There is an oversized two car garage and private driveway. This home sits on a 2,900 square foot piece of property with a corner lot setting. There are not any Mello Roos fees in this development. Patio Homes offers many amenities including a gym, clubhouse, two pools and tennis courts. Orange Tree is bordered by Irvine Center Drive, Valley Oak Drive and Barranca Parkway. There are 1,360 residents in Orange Tree and 272 detached single family homes in the Patio Homes development.

The Summer Drive-In Series is happening now. The Summer Drive-In Series was created to modify existing community events into a way we can safely enjoy them with proper social distancing guidelines. The first August installment will feature a live concert by Southland Mega Groove.  This band plays a variety of music from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. The intermission will feature a performance by Irvine High School students Haley Tran and Nathan Nguyen. Bring a picnic dinner or enjoy something from one the of food trucks. The drive-in is set-up in Parking Lot 2 in the OC Great Park. Gates open at 4:30pm and the concert begins at 5:30pm. Advanced registration is required but admission is free.  For more information about this event, see their website at: https://www.cityofirvine.org/news-media/calendar-of-events/event/summer-drive-series-southland-mega-groove.

Crystal Cove is a collection of luxury communities situated just north of Laguna Beach.  In addition, Crystal Cove is home to the Crystal Cove State Park, with 2,400 acres of canyons, 18 miles of trails and 3.2 miles of coastline. Located at 18 Rockshore Bluff, this 3,800 square foot home is part of the Oceana community. This four bedroom, five bathroom home was built in 2005. This is a rare single level home available for sale in Oceana. The home has recently remodeled with new wool carpeting, Toto toilets and custom cabinetry.  There are remarkable views of the Pacific Ocean, whitewater, Catalina Island, city night lights and colorful evening sunsets. This home sits on an 8,900 square foot piece of property with a cul-de-sac setting.  Outdoors, homeowners will enjoy saltwater swimming pool, spa, outdoor fireplace and built-in fireplace. Oceana students attend Laguna Beach Unified School District, specifically El Morro Elementary School, Thurston Middle School and Laguna Beach High School. 

Irvine is a large mastered plan community in Orange County. This 66 square mile city was incorporated in 1971. There are 34 individual Villages within the city of City of Irvine. Located at 1 Atascadero, this 4,300 square foot home is part of the Cambria development in Northpark Square Village. This five bedroom, five bathroom home was built in 2000. The gourmet kitchen features a breakfast nook and a Silestone island. Attention to detail can be seen the custom walnut floors, built-ins and floor to ceiling bookcase.  This home sits on a 7,400 square foot piece of property, with a corner lot setting. Homeowners are within walking distance to the clubhouse. Homeowners will enjoy a custom swimming pool, spa and a built-in barbeque area.   Cambria is a gated community. Northpark Square is a partially gated and has many amenities including a Junior Olympic size swimming pool, spa, outdoor amphitheater, basketball court and parks. 

Storybook Time in the Farm will be happening on Sunday, July 5^th.  Storytime starts at 10am and ends at 11am.  Storytime is held in the Farm and Food Lab. The Farm and Food Lab will come alive through stories and activities. There is a Little Free Library at the Farm and Food Lab, to give a book and/or take a book.  Parent participation is required and registration is not required. This is story time is for three to six year old’s. Orange County Great Park is located at 8000 Great Park Boulevard in Irvine. For more information about this event, or the many others offered at Orange County Great Park, see their website at: https://www.cityofirvine.org/orange-county-great-park.

Corona del Mar is part of the Newport Beach. Known locally as the CDM, Corona del Mar encompasses all the land from the sea side of the San Joaquin Hills and south Avocado Avenue to the city limits. Located at 1101 Ebbtide Road, this 4,900 square foot home is part of the Harbor View Hills community. This three bedroom, four bathroom home was built in 1960. This is a single level home that has recently been remodeled. Attention to detail can be seen in the high-volume ceilings, double sided fireplace smart home technology. There are impressive views of the Pacific Ocean, Peninsula, Catalina island and Palos Verdes.  This home sits on a 10,400 square foot piece of property with a bluff setting.  The interior courtyard has a bubbling waterfall, koi stream and sitting area with a stone fireplace. Outdoors, in the backyard there is a sitting area, fireplace and barbeque area.  Students living in Harbor View Hills attend Newport Elementary School and Corona del Mar Intermediate and High School. 

Irvine is an Orange County city, Tustin, Santa Ana, Lake Forest Laguna Hills, Costa Mesa and Newport Beach.  This 66 square mile city made up of mostly flat valley land situated between the Loma Ridge and San Joaquin Hills. Located at 29 Orchard, this 900 square foot is part of the Patio Homes development in Orangetree community. This two bedroom, two bathroom patio home was built in 1977. This single story home is detached with an open floor plan and is filled with natural light.  The recently remodeled kitchen features white cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances.  The home sits on a 2,900 square foot piece of property with a corner lot setting. Orangetree Village is a smaller development with 1,360 residences in five home tracts. Neighborhood amenities include two swimming pools, spas and tennis courts. 

Just Sold: Villa del Mare in Pelican Point

Just Sold!  Villa del Mare in Pelican Point, located at 30 Pelican Drive was just sold by Michael Franco of MWA Luxury real estate. Pelican Point is a development in the Pelican Hill section of Newport Coast in Newport Beach. Villa del Mare sold for 9 million dollars.  This 7,100 square foot home has four bedrooms and seven bathrooms. The home was built in 2005. The master suite features his and her closets, a sitting area, and a private terrace with a fireplace. The open floor plan kitchen has pocket doors which allows for seamless indoor to outdoor entertaining. The home has a 400-bottle wine cellar, media lounge, an elevator to all levels and a Savant Smart home System. There is a seven-car subterranean garage.  Among the wonderful views from this custom-built estate and property include the Pacific Ocean, whitewater, city night lights, gorgeous evening sunsets and the 11^th green of the Pelican Hill Golf Course. Outdoors homeowners will enjoy a custom glass mosaic swimming pool, spa, built-in barbeque area and multiple outdoor fireplaces. Students in this area attend harbor View Elementary School and Corona del Mar Intermediate and High School. Pelican Point is a 24-hour guard gated community of just 48 custom built homes.