News Summary
The 26th annual Eric Marienthal and Friends Benefit Concert at Hyatt Regency Newport Beach raised $200,000 for the High Hopes Head Injury Program. Over 700 guests attended the event, which featured performances from Grammy-winning saxophonist Boney James. The concert included a VIP dinner, auctions, and heartfelt testimonies from students recovering from traumatic brain injuries, emphasizing community support for rehabilitation services. High Hopes is dedicated to helping individuals regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
Newport Beach – The 26th annual Eric Marienthal and Friends Benefit Concert, held on July 13 at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, successfully raised $200,000 for the High Hopes Head Injury Program. The event, attended by more than 700 guests, featured Grammy-winning saxophonist Boney James as a special guest performer and was hosted by local resident Eric Marienthal, a longstanding supporter of the program.
The concert commenced with a VIP dinner and reception that included a hosted bar and entertainment provided by the Ron Kobayashi Trio. Guests enjoyed a delectable meal from Tulsa Rib Company and were treated to performances by Mary and Luke Desmond, children of the program’s founder. The evening also included two music sets, a silent auction, and a live auction that showcased various luxury items and unique experiences.
Proceeds from the concert directly support students recovering from traumatic brain injuries, with the High Hopes program serving over 60 students monthly. Many of these students benefit from scholarships aimed at easing the financial burden of rehabilitation services, which focus on helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life.
Event Highlights
During the concert, Marienthal opened with a vibrant selection of popular songs, including “Lolo Shuffle,” “One for James,” “Lee Ann,” and “Babycakes.” A particularly touching moment unfolded when Marienthal’s daughter, Katie, took the stage to perform “Feeling Good” for the first time.
Throughout the event, students shared personal testimonies about their journeys of recovery. One notable story was that of a student named Brandon, who had recently begun walking again after a stroke. These heartfelt accounts emphasized the essential work High Hopes does to support individuals facing life-altering challenges.
Award and Auctions
Board President Robert Vermes introduced members of the High Hopes board and awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award to longtime supporter James Reed. The live auction featured attractive items and experiences, including a private dinner with Marienthal and Rick Braun, tickets to Broadway shows, and a jazz cruise, all motivating attendees to contribute generously.
Musical Performances
Boney James dazzled the audience with a selection from his upcoming 2024 album “Slow Burn,” including a captivating collaboration with Marienthal on the song “Slide.” He concluded the concert with a spirited rendition of “Grazin’ in the Grass,” marking a high-energy finish to the evening.
Community Support
Mark Desmond, founder and CEO of High Hopes, expressed gratitude for the record turnout, underscoring the strong community support for the program’s mission. The concert was also live streamed by Alert the Globe, with plans for a replay in August, allowing more individuals to participate in the efforts to benefit the head injury program.
About High Hopes
Founded in 1975, the High Hopes Head Injury Program is recognized as the only nonprofit of its type. The organization offers comprehensive rehabilitation services tailored to individuals with brain injuries, focusing on helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life. The program relies on community contributions and events like the Eric Marienthal and Friends Benefit Concert to sustain its invaluable work.
For more information about the High Hopes Head Injury Program and its initiatives, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the official website.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Advancements in Outpatient Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery
Andrew Do Ordered to Repay $900K in Bribes
Dana Point Launches Free Summer Trolley Service
James Canfield Appointed New CEO of OC Fair & Event Center
Huntington Beach Seeks Assistant City Manager Amid Changes
Huntington Beach Artist Advocates for Homelessness Awareness
Tustin Residents Discuss Future of Historic WWII Blimp Hangar
Pacific Symphony Presents ‘Cathedrals of Sound’ Concert
OCC Chamber Singers to Perform Mozart’s Requiem
Additional Resources
- Newport Beach Indy: Eric Marienthal Headlines Benefit Concert
- Newport Beach Indy: Eric Marienthal’s Benefit Concert Supports High Hopes
- LA Times: The Crowd Concert Raises Funds for High Hopes
- Newport Beach Indy: 25th Annual Eric Marienthal Concert Raises $200k
- Wikipedia: Brain Injury
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
