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City of Irvine Sees Minimal Revenue from Great Park EV Chargers After Controversial Contract Decision

Issue # 0237

Author

Joshua Tjia
29 Aug

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

📉🔋 City of Irvine Sees Minimal Revenue from Great Park EV Chargers After Controversial Contract Decision

🛒🍎 UC Irvine's Joyce Lee Teams Up with Albertsons to Combat Prediabetes Through Supermarket Coaching

🚜🏗️ Southbound I-5 Freeway Closure: September 7-8 for Jeffrey Open Space Trail Project

🍏👧🏻 Join Pretend City and Second Harvest Food Bank in the Fight Against Hunger This September

🚌💧 Enjoy Labor Day Safely: IUSD Holiday Closure & Must-Know Water Safety Tips

🥗 Quick and Healthy Meals for Busy Families: Delicious Recipes Under an Hour

🥾 Help Preserve Our Trails—Clean Your Boots to Stop Invasive Species

👶📚 Hands-On Fun for the Whole Family: Builders Club Event on September 3rd

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐱 Ease Your Pet’s Transition: Back-to-School Tips for a Smooth Adjustment

⚽️ UCI Soccer's Agaton Pourshahidi Named Sgt. Pepperoni's Anteater of the Week

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈 Woodbridge, Estancia, and San Clemente Flag Football Secure Wins in Pacific Coast League Openers

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚔🚦 Murder Suspect with Loaded Gun Arrested in Irvine During Routine Traffic Stop

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

🌟🏪🎉Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

How do you get straight A's?

By using a ruler!

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

City of Irvine Sees Minimal Revenue from Great Park EV Chargers After Controversial Contract Decision

A recent budget review highlighted a significant misstep by the Irvine City Council involving the installation of 288 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at the Great Park. Promised $2 million in annual revenue from these stations, the City has instead seen "near zero" revenue and minimal usage. The contract, controversially awarded to Casco Construction in December 2021 despite staff recommending other firms, has resulted in 166 chargers being installed, which are rarely used and among the slowest available. This decision, pushed by Councilmembers Tammy Kim, Mike Carroll, and Anthony Kuo, has drawn criticism for bypassing the official bidding process and relying on misleading information, with no accountability for the resulting poor outcomes.

UC Irvine's Joyce Lee Teams Up with Albertsons to Combat Prediabetes Through Supermarket Coaching

UC Irvine's Joyce Lee launched a pilot project in collaboration with Albertsons supermarkets to help prevent prediabetes by integrating healthcare into daily routines. Pharmacists at select Albertsons locations provide personalized, on-site coaching for prediabetic patients, focusing on sustainable lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating. The program, supported by a UC End Disparities grant, has shown promising results, with some participants reverting to normal health within three months. If successful, this initiative could lead to broader healthcare reforms and increased support for prediabetic individuals, potentially reducing the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes.

Southbound I-5 Freeway Closure: September 7-8 for Jeffrey Open Space Trail Project

The southbound I-5 Freeway between Culver Drive and Jeffrey Road will be closed on September 7-8 from 1 to 5 a.m. due to the Jeffrey Open Space Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge Project. On-ramps at Culver Drive and Jeffrey Road will also be closed, with detours directing traffic to Irvine Center Drive and Sand Canyon Avenue. Expect construction noise and possible additional lighting. The project is set to be completed by March 2026. For more details, visit here.

#TrafficAdvisory #Irvine #Caltrans

Join Pretend City and Second Harvest Food Bank in the Fight Against Hunger This September

September is Hunger Action Month, and on September 6, Pretend City is partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank to pack apples for families in need across Orange County. With 1 in 11 children in the community at risk of hunger, this event offers children under seven the opportunity to experience the joy of volunteering and making a difference. Pretend City is committed to fostering the next generation of helpers.

Enjoy Labor Day Safely: IUSD Holiday Closure & Must-Know Water Safety Tips

In observance of Labor Day, IUSD schools and facilities will be closed on Monday, September 2. Enjoy the holiday weekend, and if you plan on water activities, remember the Orange County Fire Authority’s ABCs of water safety:

  • Active Adult Supervision

  • Barriers to prevent falls

  • Classes to teach swimming

Safety tips include never swimming alone, following the ABCs, entering water feet first, playing safely, and avoiding drains. If someone is missing, check the water first. For more details, visit ocfa.org's drowning prevention section.

Quick and Healthy Meals for Busy Families: Delicious Recipes Under an Hour

As summer ends and busy schedules resume, quick and healthy meals are a must. Registered dietitian Katie Rankell from UCI Health highlights nutrient-rich recipes that are easy to prepare in under an hour, perfect for the entire family. These dishes, like pesto chicken stuffed peppers and lemony orzo with zucchini and Parmesan, are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. They can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week, making meal planning easier. For dessert, try mini blueberry tarts, which are both nutritious and satisfying. Find all the recipes here.

Help Preserve Our Trails—Clean Your Boots to Stop Invasive Species

Help prevent the spread of invasive plants by cleaning your boots before and after hitting the trails. Invasive species can harm local ecosystems by outcompeting native plants and disrupting wildlife. A quick scrub of your boots can make a big impact in keeping trails healthy and beautiful. Join the effort to protect natural spaces—clean your boots and help keep trails pristine!

Hands-On Fun for the Whole Family: Builders Club Event on September 3rd

Join the Builders Club In-Person at Irvine Heritage Park Library on Tuesday, September 3, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Families are invited to get creative and build with Legos, Lincoln logs, and more in the program room. Don't miss out on this fun and hands-on activity!

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  1. Tue, October 8, 7:00-8:00 PM: Vocal Music Fall Concert at NHS Theater.

  2. Wed, October 9, 7:00-8:30 PM: Instrumental Music Fall Concert at NHS Theater.

  3. Thu, October 10, 7:00-8:30 PM: Instrumental Music Fall Concert at NHS Theater.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://timbmusic.org/events/

Upcoming University High School's Choirs Calendar

  1. Thu & Fri, October 17 & 18, 7:00 PM: Songs & Stories at Big Theater.

  2. Thu, December 5, 7:00 PM: A Winter Celebration at Big Theater.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.uhschoirs.org/2024-25-season.html

Upcoming Woodbridge High School's Music Calendar

  1. Wed, November 6, 7:00 PM: IUSD Band Spectacular.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.whs-music.org/

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. Thu, October 17, 7:00 PM: Fall Concert at WHS Performing Arts Center.

  2. Wed, October 30, 7:00 PM: IUSD High School Vocal Festival at Portola HS.

  3. Tue, November 5, 1:00 PM: Concordia Treble Chorus Festival, TBD.

  4. Fri, December 6, 7:00 PM: Winter Celebration Concert at WHS Performing Arts Center.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://woodbridgechoirs.weebly.com/calendar.html

Upcoming Irvine High School's Music Calendar

  1. Tue, October 29, 7:00-9:30 PM: Autumn Serenade

  2. Wed, December 18, 6:00-10:00 PM: IM Winter Concert

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.vimb.info/calendar

Ease Your Pet’s Transition: Back-to-School Tips for a Smooth Adjustment

As the school season starts, your pets might struggle with the sudden change of being alone more often.

  • To help them adjust, gradually increase the time you leave them alone before school starts to ease their anxiety.

  • Keep backpacks out of reach to prevent them from ingesting harmful items like food leftovers, medications, or school supplies that can cause serious health issues.

  • Practice leaving the house by using commands like "down-stay" and providing positive reinforcements such as treats or toys to keep your pets distracted during your absence.

#vcapets

UCI Soccer's Agaton Pourshahidi Named Sgt. Pepperoni's Anteater of the Week

Junior Agaton Pourshahidi has been named Sgt. Pepperoni's Anteater of the Week for his performance in UC Irvine's season opener against fourth-ranked Oregon State. Despite the team's 2-1 loss, Pourshahidi scored the Anteaters' first goal of the year in the 85th minute, marking the fifth goal of his career. He played 67 minutes and had two shots on goal. UC Irvine will next face Vermont in their home debut.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Women's Soccer

  • Thu, Aug 29: vs San Francisco, 4:00 PM

Men's Soccer

  • Thu, Aug 29: vs Vermont, 7:00 PM

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Women’s Soccer

  1. Fri, Aug 30: vs Los Angeles

Woodbridge, Estancia, and San Clemente Flag Football Secure Wins in Pacific Coast League Openers

Woodbridge opened their Pacific Coast League play with a 12-6 win over Rosary, highlighted by strong defensive play and a late game-winning drive led by QB Laney Brucker. Estancia shut out Costa Mesa 14-0, with Jaydin McClure throwing two TDs and the defense grabbing five interceptions. San Clemente won 34-12 over Pacifica, improving to 4-1. Other final scores include Sunny Hills 12-0 over Norwalk and Sonora 28-0 over Garden Grove.

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With August Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

August 2024

  • Thursday, August 29

    • 05:15 PM: Volleyball, Girls VR vs. El Modena at Irvine High School Game Gym

  • Friday, August 30

    • 07:00 PM: Football (11 person), Boys VR vs. Portola at Irvine High School Stadium

    • 07:00 PM: Traditional Competitive Cheer, VR vs. Portola at Irvine High School Stadium

September 2024

  • Tuesday, September 3

    • 04:00 PM: Golf, Girls VR vs. Alumni at Oak Creek Golf Course

  • Wednesday, September 4

    • 03:30 PM: Flag Football, Girls VR vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Stadium

  • Thursday, September 5

    • 05:15 PM: Volleyball, Girls VR vs. Portola at Irvine High School Game Gym

  • Friday, September 6

    • 07:00 PM: Football (11 person), Boys VR vs. Woodbridge at Irvine High School Stadium

    • 07:00 PM: Traditional Competitive Cheer, VR vs. Woodbridge at Irvine High School Stadium

  • Monday, September 9

    • 03:30 PM: Flag Football, Girls VR vs. Sage Hill at Irvine High School Stadium

    • 04:00 PM: Golf, Girls VR vs. Woodbridge - Alumni Game at Oak Creek Golf Course

Murder Suspect with Loaded Gun Arrested in Irvine During Routine Traffic Stop

Irvine police stopped a car near Jamboree and Main St. for a vehicle code violation and discovered the driver, Carlos Salazar Jr., 44, of Compton, had an active murder warrant. He was arrested, and a loaded 9mm handgun was found in his vehicle. Salazar was booked at Orange County Jail for the warrant and carrying a concealed gun.

#dontcommitcrimeinirvine #irvine #irvinepolice #arrest

Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?

We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you’re a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! “Irvine Insider” is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our city. Let’s collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special.

Click the link below and fill out the Local Business Spotlight Application Form to be featured and let’s celebrate the spirit of Irvine together!

Irvine Insider is sent to a local audience of Irvine residence Monday through Friday with 55% - 60% open rate. Our newsletter is a great way to reach Irvine residents.

  • Kaiser Permanente Irvine Farmers Market

  • Saturday Farmers Market at Mariners Church Irvine

    • When: Saturday, 8 AM - 12 PM

    • Where: 5428 Bonita Canyon Dr, Irvine, CA 92603

  • Great Park Certified Farmers Market

  • Manassero Farmers

    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 4:30 PM

    • Where: 33 Irvine Valley, Irvine, CA 92604

  • Tanaka Farms

    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM

    • Where: 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612

    • More Info:Tanaka Farms

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