Biz News: Newport Beach martial arts instructor receives honorific title

Gentil Pennewaert, chief instructor at Newport Beach Aikido, has received the honorific title of Shihan — which translates to master instructor — from Hombu Dojo, the international headquarters of Aikikai Aikido in Japan.

He is a sixth dan — a high rank in the sport — with more than 35 years of experience. He began his martial arts training, in judo, as a child in Belgium.

“It is an honor to be recognized by your seniors at the highest level, which encourages me to keep improving and continuing to offer the best Aikido to my students and to the Aikido students across the world,” Pennewaert said in a news release. “I will make sure to honor this distinction.”

The studio is located at 2018 Quail St.

Newport real estate firm launches app

Newport Beach-based Villa Real Estate has launched a new mobile app. The software allows people to search properties and agents based on their areas of expertise, according to a news release. It’s available for Apple and Android phones.

San Diego firm merges with Crisp Imaging

Crisp Imaging, a digital printing and document management company based in Costa Mesa, has merged with Freeform, a San Diego-based visual marketing communications business, according to a news release.

They will operate as Freeform, a Crisp Imaging Co.

Freeform was founded in 2003.

New credit union opens in Costa Mesa

The Credit Union of Southern California recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new location in Costa Mesa.

The branch at 1835 Newport Blvd. is within the Costa Mesa Courtyards center, across from The Triangle.

Opioid overdose class coming to Newport

Anthony Brown, a registered nurse and drug and alcohol recovery specialist, is hosting a seminar on emergency measures for opioid overdoses from noon to 4 p.m. Feb. 24.

The cost is $50 and will take place at Nancy Clark and Associates, 471 Old Newport Blvd., Suite 102, Newport Beach.

For more information, visit caredd.org or email careconsultingdd@gmail.com.

Nail spa opens in The Triangle

Triangle Nail Bar and Spa recently opened at The Triangle in Costa Mesa.

The salon offers offers manicures, pedicures, eyelash extensions, microblading, permanent make-up and waxing, according to a news release.