Newport Beach Debuts New Civic Center

Hundreds of people gathered Saturday in Newport Beach to celebrate the official unveiling of the city's new Civic Center.

The dedication ceremony included music by the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band, the 1/1 Marines Color Guard and remarks from Mayor Keith Curry and Councilman Ed Selich. Guests spent the day strolling through the new building and exploring the 14-acre park.

Residents like Carol Jung said they were pleased with the finished product.

"This makes me really proud, it's good to see all of the neighbors come together," Jung said. "It confirms this is the best place to live."

"It's not just Newport Beach that's going to appreciate this," Costa Mesa resident Susie West added. "All of Orange County will, it's a very special place."

During the festivities guests were treated to sample food tastings from 22 local restaurants including Zinc Cafe, the Island Hotel, Whole Foods and Bristol Farms. 

Kids enjoyed face painting, crafts and a magic show.

But the grand opening also had some naysayers on hand.

A handful of Stop the Dock Tax protesters gathered to voice their opposition to the project.

"It's like stealing from the public, children, grandchildren; No right in my mind to spend $130 million dollars," Bob McCaffrey, the group's chairman, said. "As for the dog park, City Hall is in the business of people, not business of dogs." 

A plane flying above also carried a protest banner overhead during the dedication ceremony.