This is a story about a legend and a young lady.
Arguably the late John Wayne — or the "Duke," as locals still like to call him — lives on in memory with tremendous adoration in the hearts of locals who recall his formidable presence in the Newport-Mesa community. The movie star from the so-called golden age of Hollywood films died of cancer 32 years ago.
Following his passing, the extended Wayne family created the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, or JWCF, in an effort to help eradicate cancer through research and medical advancement. Since then, much has been accomplished, in part due to the millions of dollars raised and donated by the foundation in pursuit of a cure.
The Newport-Mesa auxiliary of the Wayne Foundation is known as Team Duke. Last week on the greens of tony Pelican Hill, a young lady named Alexandra Richardson organized a golf tournament in the icon's name.