In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🏢💹💲 Irvine Dominates OC's Fastest-Growing Companies List with Impressive 65% Revenue Surge

⌚🍎 Apple's Watch Technology Challenged by Small Medtech Firm Masimo's Patent Victory

⚖ Orange County Superior Court Judge Accused of Fatal Shooting of Wife, Faces Life in Prison

☁🧪 OC San's Chemical and Biological Air Scrubbers: A Revolutionary Step in Wastewater Treatment

📝📚 Irvine Schools Launch Free Parent Education Workshops in December

❤🩸 UCI Health's Dr. Pakbaz Leads the Charge in Groundbreaking Sickle Cell Treatment

😟⚕ Comprehensive Anxiety Treatment Available at Local Urgent Care Centers in Irvine, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa

🚶‍♂️🌳 Discover Scenic Views at Baker Canyon Hike on December 7th

🌄 Unlock the Great Outdoors: Bommer Canyon's Upcoming Activities and Hikes

🧁Discover the Art of Cupcake Making: Irvine Fine Arts Center Hosts Teen Baking Workshop

🏀⭐ UCI Basketball Freshman Derin Saran Dominates Big Dawgs Classic, Clinches Anteater of the Week

⚽🌎 UC Irvine's Finest Hit the Field Internationally in Women's Soccer

🤽‍♂️ ⚽🏐 UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀 Irvine Valley Women's Basketball Suffers First Season Loss Against Long Beach

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏀 San Clemente Secures Narrow Victory Over Woodbridge in High-Stakes Basketball Clash

🏈🎾 High School Varsity Athletics: Football Face-offs and Sports Calendar

👮‍♂️🚨 Irvine PD on the Lookout for Suspect in $2,000 Fraud Case

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

What do you call a slow skier?

Answer: A slopepoke!

We hope this joke brings some laughter to your day! 😁

Irvine Dominates OC's Fastest-Growing Companies List with Impressive 65% Revenue Surge

Orange County's fastest-growing publicly traded companies, particularly those in Irvine, have seen a 65% revenue growth in two years. Half of the top 34 companies are based in Irvine, with diverse sectors represented. Rivian leads as the top large public company, followed by Masimo, Alteryx, and Boot Barn, showcasing the economic strength and diversity in Irvine.

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Apple's Watch Technology Challenged by Small Medtech Firm Masimo's Patent Victory

Joe Kiani and Masimo Corp. won a significant legal victory against Apple Inc. in a U.S. International Trade Commission ruling on Oct. 26, which could potentially halt the importation of Apple's latest watches. Despite this, Apple's and Masimo's stock prices remained stable, and the long-term impact of the ruling is uncertain. Masimo, known for its medical technology, accused Apple of using its pulse oximetry technology in Apple Watches. The ruling supports Masimo's claims, but Apple has options to appeal. Masimo's history includes winning major legal battles and significant settlements. The company, which Kiani started in his garage, has grown substantially, especially during the pandemic. The current dispute with Apple dates back to 2013, involving allegations of Apple poaching Masimo's employees and technology. While Masimo seeks substantial damages in ongoing legal battles, the outcome and future implications of the ITC ruling remain to be seen.

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Orange County Superior Court Judge Accused of Fatal Shooting of Wife, Faces Life in Prison

Jeffrey Ferguson, a 72-year-old Orange County Superior Court judge, has been charged with the murder of his 65-year-old wife in Anaheim Hills. Arrested on August 3, 2023, after his son reported the shooting, Ferguson faces up to 40 years to life in prison if convicted. He posted a $1 million bail and was released. Ferguson, who has been a judge since 2015 and a former prosecutor, is now subject to a bail motion seeking additional conditions for public safety. This includes surrendering his passport, no firearms or alcohol possession, wearing a GPS ankle bracelet, and restricted contact with his son, among others. Concerns arise as a .22 rifle registered to Ferguson is still missing, despite police recovering 47 other weapons and over 26,000 rounds of ammunition from his home.

Full press release

Source

OC San's Chemical and Biological Air Scrubbers: A Revolutionary Step in Wastewater Treatment

OC San uses air scrubbers to limit odors at their plant. There are two types: chemical and biological. Chemical scrubbers use chemicals to remove hydrogen sulfide and other gases, while biological scrubbers use microorganisms on foam cubes to consume these gases. Both methods release clean air and minimize community odor.

See video

Irvine Schools Launch Free Parent Education Workshops in December

December's Irvine Parent Education Program (IPEP) workshops are now available for free to the IUSD community. These include seminars and educational workshops aimed at empowering parents in their child’s education. For more info, visit iusd.org/ParentWorkshops or contact Kim Bates at [email protected].

Source

UCI Health's Dr. Pakbaz Leads the Charge in Groundbreaking Sickle Cell Treatment

A new genetic therapy, exa-cel, potentially curing sickle cell disease, is close to FDA approval. Dr. Zahra Pakbaz from UCI Health, an expert in hematology, emphasizes the urgent need for such treatments. Exa-cel prevents red blood cells from forming a sickle shape, which causes severe health issues. Pakbaz, with extensive experience and numerous publications in sickle cell anemia and related fields, highlights the significant impact of the disease on life quality and expectancy. Her work has notably advanced sickle cell and thalassemia patient care.

Read more

Comprehensive Anxiety Treatment Available at Local Urgent Care Centers in Irvine, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa

Anxiety disorders, characterized by intense worry or fear, can disrupt daily life but are treatable. Urgent care centers in Orange Country offer expert care for anxiety, including diagnosis and treatment, available every day of the week. Their facilities feature one-to-one care, in-house labs, and accept most insurance plans. Anxiety can manifest in various symptoms and may be linked to other medical issues. The healthcare team conducts thorough evaluations, including vital checks and tests like EKGs, to diagnose anxiety or related conditions, and provides appropriate treatment, including specialist referrals if needed.

Book online to avoid wait times. Irvine Woodbridge, Fountain Valley, Costa Mesa

Source

Discover Scenic Views at Baker Canyon Hike on December 7th

Join the Thursday Morning Trek at Baker Canyon in Irvine Ranch Open Space on December 7, 2023, from 8:00 am to 11:30 am. This challenging level-4 hike covers 7 miles with an 1100 feet elevation gain, offering panoramic views including Catalina Island on clear days. Essential gear includes hiking shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. Participants must:

• Register in advance

• Be capable of hiking at 3 mph

• Sign a liability waiver

Facilities are available but not individually sanitized. Do not attend if feeling unwell or after recent exposure to illness. Limited to 20 participants, with 14 spots remaining.

Source

Unlock the Great Outdoors: Bommer Canyon's Upcoming Activities and Hikes

Bommer Canyon offers a variety of outdoor activities organized by numerous groups and volunteers, with most programs being free of charge. Pre-registration is required for events led by IRC-Certified Volunteers, closing at 4 p.m. the day before the event. Minors must be accompanied by an adult, and for any assistance, reach out via email to [email protected].

Upcoming events:

• November 30th: 7-mile hike in Bommer Canyon

The activities are family-friendly, with some available after 5 pm on weekdays or during weekends. For more details, trail tips, and FAQs, visit the Bommer Canyon website.

Discover the Art of Cupcake Making: Irvine Fine Arts Center Hosts Teen Baking Workshop

Join the "Teen Culinary Workshop: Cupcakes from Scratch" on Monday, December 4, from 4–6 p.m. at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. Learn to bake and decorate cupcakes from scratch, explore baking techniques and flavors, and unleash your creativity. Register here

#TeenBakingClass #CupcakeCreation #IrvineFineArtsCenter

Source

UCI Basketball Freshman Derin Saran Dominates Big Dawgs Classic, Clinches Anteater of the Week

Freshman Derin Saran was named Sgt. Pepperoni's Anteater of the Week for his standout performance in the Big Dawgs Classic, averaging 15.7 points per game with a 56% shooting success. He scored a career-high 16 points against Pepperdine, 15 points versus Toledo, and another 16 against Rice, contributing significantly to his team's victories.

Source

UC Irvine's Finest Hit the Field Internationally in Women's Soccer

Several Anteaters from Irvine, California, are participating in international women's soccer. Laila El Behery and Mihaela Perez are set for their international debuts with Egypt and Guam, respectively. Egypt faces Senegal in the African Cup of Nations qualifiers, while Guam competes in the EAFF E-1 Football Championship in China. Alums Kiana Palacios and Scarlett Camberos are playing for Mexico in the CONCACAF W Gold Cup qualifiers. Aveka Singh and Jessica Miclat have also been called up for the Indian and Philippine National Teams, respectively, with Miclat recently competing in Olympic Games qualification.

Source

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men's Basketball

1.  December 16th, 2023 vs South Dakota - 7:00 PM

2.  December 28th, 2023 vs UC Riverside - 7:00 PM

Women's Basketball

1. - December 2nd, 2023 vs Denver - 2:00 PM

2. - December 30th, 2023 vs Cal State Bakersfield - 2:00 PM

Source

Irvine Valley Women's Basketball Suffers First Season Loss Against Long Beach

Irvine Valley women's basketball team, ranked No. 8, lost their first game of the season 60-52 to No. 19 Long Beach City, ending their six-game winning streak. The game was initially tied, but Long Beach City gained the lead in the second quarter. Irvine Valley's top scorers were Moka Saiki and Christen Ziska with 15 points each. Long Beach City's Brillana Boyd scored 20 points. Irvine Valley's next game is on Dec 8 against Glendale.

Source

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Men’s Basketball:

1. Fri Dec 15 - vs LA Valley. 6:00 PM

2. Tue Dec 19 - vs Orange Coast. 6:00 PM

3. Fri Dec 29: vs Alumni. 5:00 PM

Women’s Basketball:

1. Fri Dec 22 - vs Alumni, Time TBA

San Clemente Secures Narrow Victory Over Woodbridge in High-Stakes Basketball Clash

San Clemente's boys basketball team narrowly defeated Woodbridge 61-58 at the Portola-Woodbridge Classic. Leading by three at halftime and extending to an 11-point lead, San Clemente faced a strong comeback from Woodbridge. The game concluded with a missed three-point attempt by Woodbridge, securing San Clemente's win. Key players for San Clemente included Porter Hansen with 15 points, and Christian Fernandez and Will Whidden, each scoring 14 points. Hudson Tolliver also contributed significantly with 11 points. Woodbridge's comeback effort was led by JC Schindler with 16 points and Jason Briggs with 14. San Clemente's rebounding was a crucial factor in their victory. Both teams have upcoming games in the tournament, with San Clemente facing Laguna Beach and Woodbridge playing Capo Valley Christian.

Source

High School Athletics Calendar -

** Updated With December Schedule

Northwood High School Monthly Athletics Calendar (All Level)

University High School Monthly Athletics Calendar (All Level)

Woodbridge High School Monthly Athletics Calendar (All Level)

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

December 2023

- Wednesday, 6 December

- 05:00 PM: Boys Soccer, Varsity vs. Laguna Beach (Irvine High School Stadium)

- 07:00 PM: Boys Basketball, Varsity vs. Wilson/Long Beach (Irvine High School Game Gym)

- Friday, 8 December

- 05:00 PM: Boys Soccer, Varsity vs. St. Margarets Episcopal (Irvine High School Stadium)

- 07:00 PM: Boys Basketball, Varsity vs. Brea Olinda (Irvine High School Game Gym)

- Tuesday, 12 December

- 06:30 PM: Girls Basketball, Varsity vs. Trabuco Hills (Irvine High School Game Gym)

- Wednesday, 13 December

- 05:00 PM: Boys Soccer, Varsity vs. Aliso Niguel (Irvine High School Stadium)

- Friday, 15 December

- 07:00 PM: Boys Basketball, Varsity vs. Whitney (Irvine High School Game Gym)

- Tuesday, 19 December

- 05:00 PM: Girls Soccer, Varsity vs. Valencia/Placentia (Irvine High School Stadium)

- Wednesday, 20 December

- 05:00 PM: Boys Soccer, Varsity vs. Tustin (Irvine High School Stadium)

- 06:00 PM: Girls Basketball, Varsity vs. Edison (Irvine High School Game Gym)

- Thursday, 21 December

- 03:00 PM: Girls Water Polo, Varsity vs. Trabuco Hills (Woolett Pool)

Irvine PD on the Lookout for Suspect in $2,000 Fraud Case

A fraudster used fake ID with someone's personal info to steal $2,000 from their account. Irvine PD seeks help to identify the suspect. Email [email protected] with info.

Source

November 24 - December 30 Hikari Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms 4:30 PM - 10 PM

Click here for discount coupon code

November 30 Diane Schuur at 70: An Evening of Songs and Stories 8 PM

December 1 Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood: Scared Scriptless 8 PM

See video

December 2 Palm Court Light Display Dusk - 9:30 PM

December 2 Nutcracker for Kids by Pacific Symphony 10:00 and 11:30 AM

December 2 The Queen's Cartoonists Holiday Hurrah: Yule Love It! 6 PM

See video

December 2 - 3 Holiday Market 3 PM - 7PM

December 3 Handel's Glorious Messiah 3 PM

December 3 Jake Shimabukuro: Christmas in Hawaiʻi 7 PM

December 6 - 7 Westpark Annual Talent Show 7 PM

December 7 - Empowering the Youth 5 PM - 7 PM

December 7 Crean Lutheran High School The Joy of Christmas: Christmas Around the World 7 PM

December 8 Silent Night Silent Disco 7 PM

December 8-17 American Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker

Click here to see the intro video

December 9 Concordia Christmas 

December 9 - 10 123 Andrés 

December 9 - 24 Festival Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker

December 10 Holidays Around the World 11 AM

December 15 - 16 Celtic Woman: Christmas Symphony Tour 8 PM

December 14 - 16 A Merry Little Christmas with Megan Hilty

See video here

December 17 - 18 Tis the Season! 5 PM, 7:30 PM

December 19 Holiday Organ Spectacular 7:30 PM

Decmber 22 The Pan American Nutcracker Suite Reimagined 8 PM

December 23 Fiesta Navidad 8 PM

Decmber 30 KC and the Sunshine Band 7:30 PM

December 30 Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert 3 PM