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Coming Soon: 22 Acres of Scenic Lakes Transforming the Great Park

Issue # 0349

Author

Joshua Tjia
21 Feb

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

📘📖 Irvine Hosts Community Meetings on New Public Library System Transition

💧🏞️ Coming Soon: 22 Acres of Scenic Lakes Transforming the Great Park

💐⚾️ Former UCI Baseball Pitcher and Philanthropist Steve Borowski Passes Away

🌼🧸🌼 MINISO Grand Opening: Deals, Giveaways & Fun Activities You Can’t Miss

🚌✏️ Earn College Credits in High School! New IUSD & IVC Early College Program for 2025-26

🤕 Fast & Effective Pink Eye Treatment in Orange County

🌳🚶🏻‍♀️ Explore Round Canyon: Family-Friendly Hike on March 1

🎭🎶 Calling Young Artists! Experience a Creative Summer at Arts-X-Press

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🦷🐈 Pet Dental Care 101: Simple Ways to Prevent Disease

🎾 UCI Women’s Tennis Bounces Back with 5-2 Win Over UCR

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

⚾️ Irvine Valley Baseball Rallies Late to Beat Grossmont 13-8

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

⚾️ Woodbridge Baseball Starts Season Strong with Back-to-Back Wins

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

What did one flower say to the other?

“What’s up, bud?”

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

Irvine Hosts Community Meetings on New Public Library System Transition

The City of Irvine is transitioning from the County of Orange to an independent Irvine Public Library system, aiming for a more personalized, community-focused approach. A series of informational meetings will provide residents with an opportunity to give input on the future of library services.

Upcoming meetings will be held at:

  • Portola Springs Community Center (Feb. 24, 6-6:45 p.m.)

  • Las Lomas Community Center (Mar. 4, 6-6:45 p.m.)

  • Deerfield Community Center (Mar. 17, 6-6:45 p.m.)

  • University Community Center (Apr. 10, 6:30-7:15 p.m.)

The Feb. 24 and Mar. 4 meetings will cover the same information as the Jan. 30 session at Quail Hill Community Center. The meetings will discuss the transition plan and benefits of City-operated libraries. More details at irvinepubliclibrary.org.

Coming Soon: 22 Acres of Scenic Lakes Transforming the Great Park

The future North and South Lakes at the Great Park will be a scenic and functional addition to Irvine.

  • Spanning 22 acres, the lakes will feature pump stations powered by solar energy during the day, ensuring efficient operation.

  • A specialized liner and concrete veneer will help maintain water levels using recycled water.

  • Integrated water gardens will enhance the landscape while supporting local wildlife.

  • Additionally, the lakes will play a role in stormwater management, helping to reduce flood risks.

Former UCI Baseball Pitcher and Philanthropist Steve Borowski Passes Away

Steve Borowski, a former UC Irvine baseball pitcher and longtime supporter of the university, has passed away. His deep connection to UCI spanned nearly 50 years, culminating in a historic $5 million donation last month to support the baseball program. A successful investment executive, Borowski also contributed to various campus initiatives and local youth organizations, leaving a lasting legacy of generosity and leadership.

MINISO Grand Opening: Deals, Giveaways & Fun Activities You Can’t Miss

Join the MINISO Grand Opening at The Market Place on Friday, March 14, at 11:00 AM! The first 50 customers get a free $50 goodie bag (while supplies last). Enjoy 10% off your entire purchase (March 14-16), mascot shows, photo ops, a dice discount game, and more.

Earn College Credits in High School! New IUSD & IVC Early College Program for 2025-26

IUSD, in partnership with Irvine Valley College, is launching a four-year Early College Program for academically qualified incoming 9th graders, allowing them to earn nearly two years of transferable college credits while completing high school. This opportunity helps students save time and tuition while advancing their college and career goals.

Fast & Effective Pink Eye Treatment in Orange County

Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is an eye infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or irritants, with allergic conjunctivitis being non-contagious.

  • Symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, light sensitivity, and discharge.

  • Family Care Centers' urgent care clinics in Irvine, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa provide daily treatment (Costa Mesa: Mon-Fri) with onsite lab services, online check-in, and virtual visits.

  • Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, affect vision, or are accompanied by fever.

  • Treatment includes eye exams and prescriptions for antibiotics or antiviral medication.

Explore Round Canyon: Family-Friendly Hike on March 1

Join a Family Hike in Round Canyon on Saturday, March 1, from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM for a leisurely 2.5-mile nature walk through Irvine Ranch Open Space. Keep an eye out for red-tailed hawks and mule deer on this easy-paced hike, ideal for families and those preferring a flatter trail (Difficulty: 2, Elevation: 370 ft).

Calling Young Artists! Experience a Creative Summer at Arts-X-Press

Immerse yourself in music, theater, dance, and visual arts at arts-X-press, a five-day summer arts camp at Concordia University Irvine!

  • Hosted by Pacific Symphony, this inspiring program runs July 6-11 (Session 1) and July 13-18 (Session 2), offering young artists a chance to explore creativity, make new friends, and take bold artistic risks.

  • Celebrating 25 years, this year’s camp is extra special!

  • Applications are now open—don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  1. February 28: CSUF Wind Ensemble Festival, CSU Fullerton

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

Upcoming University High School's Choirs Calendar

  1. February 27 - March 1,6,7,8 7:00 PM: Guys and Dolls Musical, 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. February 27 - March 1, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM: Shrek the Musical, Performing Arts Center

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. February 27 - March 1: Shrek the Musical, 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. March 5-8, 7:00 PM: Mary Poppins Musical, Irvine Performing Arts Center.

  2. March 13, 6:30 PM: Festival Concert, Irvine Performing Arts Center.

  3. March 15, All Day: Irvine Jazz Festival, Irvine High School Campus.

  4. March 18, 7:00 PM: District Jazz Festival, Woodbridge HS Performing Arts Center.

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

Pet Dental Care 101: Simple Ways to Prevent Disease

Dental disease is a common health issue in dogs and cats, but regular oral care can help prevent serious problems. Here are some easy ways to keep your pet’s teeth clean:

  • Toothbrush: Cleans the inside, outside, and top surfaces of teeth.

  • Dry Food Dental Diet: Helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

  • Dental Chew Toys: Great for dogs that eat edible treats too quickly.

  • Dental Treats: Look for VOHC-certified options to help fight plaque.

  • Finger Toothbrush: Fits over your fingertip for easy brushing.

  • Dental Wipes: A simple alternative to brushing.

  • Mesh-Covered Fabric Toys: Help clean teeth and massage gums.

UCI Women’s Tennis Bounces Back with 5-2 Win Over UCR

UC Irvine secured a solid 5-2 victory over UC Riverside, bouncing back from a conference loss. The Anteaters dominated doubles play, with Yen Nhi Huynh and Carolyna Fowler winning 6-2, followed by Kayla Meraz and Amanda Perez clinching the doubles point with a 6-3 win. In singles, Huynh extended her winning streak with a 6-1, 6-0 sweep, while Meraz and Haily Huynh secured key victories to seal the team win. Maily Huynh added a three-set win to end the match 5-2. Head Coach Elizabeth Ferris Smith praised the team's energy and execution, emphasizing the importance of starting strong. Players highlighted resilience and focus as key factors in the win. UCI now prepares to face Occidental on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 11 a.m.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Women's Water Polo

  • Fri, Feb 21: UC Irvine vs. Loyola Marymount University at 4:40 PM

  • Sat, Feb 22: UC Irvine vs. TBA, time TBA

  • Sun, Feb 23: UC Irvine vs. TBA, time TBA

Women's Basketball

  • Sat, Feb 22: UC Irvine vs. Cal State Bakersfield at 2:00 PM

Baseball

  • Wed, Feb 26: UC Irvine vs. Utah Tech at 6:00 PM

Irvine Valley Baseball Rallies Late to Beat Grossmont 13-8

Irvine Valley baseball rallied late to defeat Grossmont 13-8 at home, scoring four runs in the seventh and three in the eighth. The Lasers trailed 7-6 before taking control with key hits, Grossmont errors, and a balk. Jake Amundson led off the seventh with a walk and later scored, while Jackson Snitko and Sam Tucci contributed crucial plays. Amundson finished 2-for-4 with three runs, while Snitko walked four times and scored four runs. Tyler Eastham started on the mound, Andres Gomez earned the win, and Zack Marker secured the save.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Women's Basketball

  1. Fri, Feb 21 – vs Orange Coast, 6:00 PM

Baseball

  1. Sat, Feb 22 – vs San Diego Mesa, 12:00 PM

Men’s Tennis

  1. Tue, Feb 25 – vs Fullerton, 2:00 PM

  2. Thu, Feb 27 – vs Bakersfield, 1:00 PM

Women's Beach Volleyball

  1. Sat, Feb 22 – vs San Diego Mesa, 12:00 PM

  2. Thu, Feb 27 – vs LA Valley, 1:00 PM

Woodbridge Baseball Starts Season Strong with Back-to-Back Wins

Woodbridge, coached by Ryan Brucker, secured its second straight win with a dominant 15-3 non-league victory over Estancia on Wednesday. The Warriors racked up 13 hits, with standout performances from Nevan Namgoong (3-for-3, 2 runs, 2 stolen bases), Caden Camacho (3 runs, RBI), Henry Uhrik (2-for-4, double, 3 runs), and Vaughn Tase (2-for-2, 2 RBI). Alex Johnson pitched four scoreless innings, striking out five. Estancia’s Jake Humphries had a double, triple, and RBI in their season opener. Woodbridge also defeated Tustin 3-0 on Tuesday, with Vincent DeMarco and Dylan Mutuc combining for a no-hitter, striking out 14.

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With February Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

February 2025

Monday, February 24

  • 3:00 PM - Tennis (Boys, VR) vs Edison at Irvine High School Heritage Park

  • 6:00 PM - Lacrosse (Boys, VR) vs Mission Viejo at Irvine High School Stadium

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 50% - 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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