Reflecting on Success: Highlights from the 50th Anniversary CDM Home Tour 2024
By: Kym Whitney
Mayor Will O’Neill, CDM Home Tour Chair Gina Jaha, and CDM High School Principle Jake Haley
The 50th Anniversary CDM Home Tour achieved remarkable success, setting new records across various aspects. This accomplishment was made possible through the generous support of CDM families, the local community, and numerous businesses who collaborated to make it a standout event on the Newport Beach social calendar.
In spite of challenging windy conditions, volunteers, guests, sponsors, and boutique vendors demonstrated exceptional dedication and enthusiasm throughout the day. The event commenced with volunteers warmly welcoming and checking in all 1600 guests, presenting them with specially curated anniversary Swag Bags filled with products from local businesses. Additionally, fifty fortunate Golden Ticket winners had the pleasure of receiving a special gift courtesy of Bliss Home & Design. Mayor Will O’Neill inaugurated the event with a proclamation, followed by student performances, while Rose Bakery Cafe in CdM provided delectable donuts, pastries, and coffee. A scrumptious lunch featuring grilled chicken salad and brownies was catered by Chef Pascal Olhats, coinciding with his birthday celebration, alongside Chef Annie Morgan, proprietor of Backstage A’fare.
The festivities began with a spirited performance by the CDM Drumline, signaling the commencement of the tour of eight homes. Guests embarked on their exploration via cars, limousines, and party buses, marveling at the distinct designs, breathtaking decorations, and exquisite layouts. Guiding and welcoming 1600 guests through the houses with efficiency and warmth required a dedicated team of volunteers. The homeowners’ generosity in opening their private spaces to inspire guests contributed to the difficulty in choosing a favorite among the unique styles and designs showcased.
Amidst the excitement and smiles, it is crucial to emphasize that the primary objective of the event was to raise funds for CDM Middle & High School, achieving an unprecedented record-breaking amount this year. The success of the event was made possible by the contributions of the guests, sponsors, boutique vendors, underwriters, and numerous local businesses, whether through advertising, donations for the Opportunity Drawing, Auction, and Swag Bags, sponsorship of the After-Party, or provision of products and services to ensure a seamless event.
Special appreciation is extended to the dedicated teams at Presenting Sponsors, Barclay Butera Interiors, and VALIA Properties, whose exceptional efforts and commitment played a pivotal role in making the event a resounding success. Their unwavering support towards the school’s fundraiser is invaluable and deeply appreciated by the school, students, and the entire community.
Despite fifty years having passed since the inaugural CDM Home Tour in 1974, where tickets were offered for a donation of just $3.50, the core mission remains unchanged: to raise funds to support programs not funded by the school district. The proceeds will continue to bolster PTA programs at Corona del Mar Middle & High School, with plans already underway for further campus enhancements, academic, athletic, and artistic support, parent programs, and student well-being initiatives. Initiatives such as the creation of a Marching Band and Color Guard are already in progress, promising exciting performances at future events alongside other student performers.
Gina Jaha, Chair of the CDM Home Tour, remarked, “This year marked the 50th Home Tour with additional celebrations and swag bags. The CDM Home Tour team will reconvene in the Fall to plan another extraordinary Home Tour, so please stay tuned for details about next year's date and ticket sales. You won't want to miss it!”
