Thanks, Its Vintage.

Hello and Happy Monday Tuesday, Back Baylians. We are back after a long Presidents Day weekend laden with vintage goods from REDO market, and actually slightly sunburned from the welcome warm weather. If you were looking for your last chance to get a tan for Ski Week that was it. We promise this will be the last time we mention Ski Week until next Ski Week. Unrelated, are you a Dilletto babe or a Gurkenstock girlie? We told you we had reached peak pickle.

In today’s Buzz:

• REDO Hits the Fairgrounds

• 7’ Swells Hit Newport (Except They Didn’t)

• Need a Rolex? Too bad, Winstons is closing

Let’s dive in!

Jon Dougher, Back Bay Buzz

NOTABLE HEADLINES

REDO Vintage Market Hits the Fairgrounds

This past weekend, the REDO Vintage & Makers Market took over the OC Fairgrounds, showcasing dozens of local artisans, vintage retailers, and creatives from across Southern California. Shoppers browsed a curated mix of rare finds, from Vintage and handmade goods to one-of-a-kind antiques.

The lively atmosphere featured four open bars, live music, and a coffee bar serving up strong brews. The food was atrocious: The $15 breakfast burrito was likely the worst I’ve ever had. The hosts even mentioned on their instagram that the OC fairgrounds forced them to use the Fair’s approved food vendors, preventing them from using more artisanal food vendors. The drinks however, flowed generously thanks to the bartenders, who made up for their lack of cocktail finesse with heavy pours.

While entry and parking weren’t cheap, and vendor prices were on the high end, many treasures were truly unique—well worth the hunt for collectors and vintage enthusiasts.

The event drew a massive crowd, packing the OC Promenade building. The indoor layout felt cramped, especially for those navigating strollers with a mimosa in hand (us). With the nearby train exhibit also drawing visitors, parking was tight, and a more spacious setup—perhaps extending outdoors—could have eased the congestion.

Despite the crowds, it was a fun and memorable outing. Visitors returned home with unique finds, from home décor and artwork to stylish vintage threads—proof that the REDO Vintage & Makers Market remains a must-visit for local treasure hunters.

The Swell That Never Was

Initial reports of 7 foot swells were predicted to hit Newport Beach as a result of the winter storm that reminded Orange Countyans that perhaps they should own at least one umbrella (we don’t). Surf brahs were cautiously optimistic about the higher than average surf on Saturday and Sunday but were disappointed as the waves failed to reach even 4ft. Not exactly bombing. Better luck next storm. We will be cheering you on from our Pacifico-laden paddle board in the Back Bay.

Winston’s Crown Jewelers is Closing

After more than five decades in Costa Mesa, Winston’s Crown Jewelers is closing its Newport Boulevard storefront and consolidating operations at its flagship location on West Coast Highway in Newport Beach. The family-owned business, known as Orange County’s watch and timepiece headquarters since 1969, officially closed its Costa Mesa doors on Monday.

Shoppers took advantage of deep discounts on diamonds, luxury timepieces, custom jewelry, and even store fixtures during the final sale leading up to the closure.

The relocation marks a new chapter for Winston’s, which has been operated by Glenn and Michelle Verdult, with their son Brandon Verdult—a third-generation proprietor and passionate watch collector—continuing the family’s legacy. The Newport Beach location will now house the full range of Winston’s services, including jewelry repairs and watch services.

Rumors that the spot formerly occupied by Winston’s will be converted into a high-end branzino fish taco restaurant called “BrÅnz” are purely speculative at this point. What’s next, a high end avocado toast shop?

🗑️ No President’s Day Trash Delay

As a reminder, there will be no delay in trash collection in Costa Mesa or Newport Beach as a result of the President’s Day holiday. Place your cans out on the curb on the normal day for pickup. There will be no Street Sweeping on Monday but will resume today (Tuesday, 2/18) on its normal schedule.

Help Us Track Coyotes in OC! 🐾📍

Hey Neighbors! Have you spotted a coyote in the area? Let’s work together to keep our pets safe and better understand these wild neighbors we share space with.

I’ve created a Coyote Map to track sightings in Central OC, and I need your help! By reporting when and where you see a coyote, we can identify hot spots, track seasonal patterns, and stay informed.

🚨 Spotted one recently? Click the link below to submit your sighting—it only takes a few seconds! The more reports we collect, the more useful this will be for all of us.

👉 Click here for coyote sighting form

Let’s keep our community informed and prepared! Thanks for being a great neighbor. 💚

EVENTS THIS WEEK

Tustin Farmers Market - OC Fairgrounds - Wednesday Feb 19th - 9am-1pm - More Info

Lido Theatre Showing: Braveheart - Wed Feb 19th -

PLAN AHEAD:

• 🎸 Sam Outlaw - The Wayfarer - Tuesday Feb 19th - 8pm-11pm - Tickets

• 🩳 Fourth Friday’s Vintage Market - The Lido Deck - Fri Feb 28th

• Balboa All Island Garage Sale - Balboa Island (in the alleys) Sat Apr 12th 730am-1pm - More Info

• 🛥️ Newport Beach International Boat Show - Want to hobnob with some bajillionaires? Check out the Newport Beach International Boat Show (NBIBS, s’cyute) and be sure to invite us out for a sunset cruise once you lock down a sugar zaddy - May 2nd-4th - Tickets

WEATHER

Monday

55 🌡️ 59 I ⛅️ I 0% Rain I 6mph 🌬️ 

Tuesday

50 🌡️ 63 I 🌤️ I 0% Rain I 7mph 🌬️ 

Wednesday

52🌡️ 65 I 🌤️ I 0% Rain I 5mph 🌬️ 

Thursday

50🌡️ 65I 🌤️ I 0% Rain I 4mph 🌬️ 

Water temp = 57º

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Free Seaside Music Class (Infants, Toddlers)  - Lido Deck (Lido Village) - Thurs Feb 20th 1030am - More Info

Baby Wearing Barre Class - Newport Peach - Fridays 10am - More Info

Wild Tales Storytime, Hike, and Craft in Newport Beach - Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center - Friday Feb 21 10am - More Info

LIVE MUSIC 

Tuesday

Singer Songwriter Night - The Harp Inn - 7pm

Wednesday

Sam Outlaw with Hannah Aldridge - The Wayfarer - Wednesday February 19th 8:00 PM - Tickets

Thursday

Kareeta with Dead Space Revival - The Wayfarer - Thursday February 20th 8:00 PM

Thanks!

Please ignore any typos, our editor injured his C5 rubber-necking at the Vintage Market.