Key endorses tourism, not ‘The OC’ lifestyle

Tod Ridgeway

As mayor for the city of Newport Beach, I agree with the comments of

residents published in the Daily Pilot regarding the hit television

show “The OC” (“Not in my OC,” Nov. 2.) The show depicts a lifestyle

and a code of conduct that are highly exaggerated and morally

unacceptable.

However, the show’s notoriety and fame exist totally outside the

framework of Newport Beach. “The OC” is watched throughout the

country and even abroad. It is like many new shows popular today:

“The Swan,” the “Survivor” series, “For Love or Money,” “Fear

Factor,” etc. It is not fair to compare the show to Dennis Rodman or

Greg Haidl, who are real people making real choices about their

behavior and their values.

Our 14-year-old son was interviewed that night by a reporter. When

asked how he liked the show, his response was, “A lot of kids watch

it. It’s entertaining, but it’s certainly not the way we really

live.”

One of the letters asks if we shouldn’t honor Boy Scouts or high

school graduates. Absolutely! And we do. In the past three months

alone we’ve bestowed honors to approximately 25 individuals and

groups by letters and proclamations ranging from military, scholars,

sister cities, charitable organizations, athletes, Eagle Scouts,

cadets and police officers.

It is estimated that more than $20 million of city revenue comes

from tourism. When the Newport Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau

arranged “The OC” event, many concerns were voiced about sending the

wrong message. In the end, it was agreed that name identity for

Newport Beach benefits tourism. There was national attention for this

televised event.

In fact, had my comments been audible above the voices of the

audience, you’d know where I stand. I am happy to say that the moral

fabric of my family and my children is stronger than this television

show. I don’t believe that most of our residents perceive “giving the

key” as “endorsing the moral values of the show.” More accurately,

the ceremonial key is a symbol of the large role that tourism plays

in Newport Beach.

* TOD RIDGEWAY is the mayor of Newport Beach.