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Discover Irvine's Hidden Gem: ZillyMonkey - Irvine's Treasure Trove of Unique Gifts & Enjoy Special Insider Offers

Issue # 0136

Author

Joshua Tjia
05 Apr

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🚲🚨 Irvine Police Issue Warning Against Illegal E-Bike Riding on Public Roads

🌖☀️ April 8 Eclipse: Irvine Set for a Stunning 59% Sun Obscuration

🌼🐐 Spring Harvest Festival Activities and Free Wagon Rides at Tanaka Farms

⛲️🛝 Irvine's Great Park Transformation: Your Ideas Needed at Upcoming Open House

🐒🧸✨ Discover Irvine's Hidden Gem: ZillyMonkey - Irvine's Treasure Trove of Unique Gifts & Enjoy Special Insider Offers

💛🖍️💛 Join an All-Ages Coloring Time Event at Irvine Heritage Park Library

🩺😷 Get Fast Relief for Skin Rashes with FCCMG's Expert Care – Open Daily

🌳🥾 Don’t Miss the Fitness Hike at Irvine Ranch Open Space’s Hicks Haul Road

🛍️🎨 Modern Makers Festival Hits Irvine This April - A Must-Attend for Creatives and Families

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐶🐾🧼 Keep Your Furry Friends Safe This Spring: Essential Tips for Pet Owners

⚾️ UCI Baseball’s Caden Kendle Shines on Golden Spikes Award Midseason Watch List

🤽‍♀️ Libby Alexander Named Anteater of the Week After Stellar Water Polo Performances

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🎾 IVC Athlete of the Week: Patrick Riggs Leads Irvine Valley to Tennis Conference Win

🏐 Irvine Valley Men's Volleyball Secures 10th Season Win with Sweep Over Santiago Canyon

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚔🚨 Irvine PD Hunts for Suspect in U.S. Bank Robbery

👮🚴🏻‍♂️ Irvine Police Nab Bicycle-Riding Burglar in Westpark Neighborhood

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

What do you call bear with no teeth?

A gummy bear!

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

Irvine Police Issue Warning Against Illegal E-Bike Riding on Public Roads


The Irvine Police Department warns against the use of e-motos like Talaria and Sur-Ron on public roads and spaces, emphasizing recent actions taken, including impounding a Talaria and citing its rider. The IPD stresses the importance of e-bike safety, advising parents and riders to be informed and cautious. Offenders will face citations and impoundment.

April 8 Eclipse: Irvine Set for a Stunning 59% Sun Obscuration

On April 8, the U.S. will see a total solar eclipse, with Irvine experiencing a partial eclipse—59% of the sun covered by the moon. The event runs from 10:05 a.m. to 12:22 p.m., peaking at 11:12 a.m. It's a great chance to engage kids in science, demonstrating celestial movements. For safe viewing tips and more info, check iusd.org/Eclipse2024.

IUSD #STEM #SolarEclipse2024

Spring Harvest Festival Activities and Free Wagon Rides at Tanaka Farms

This weekend at Tanaka Farms and Hana Field:

  • The Spring Harvest Festival runs on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, offering Easter-themed foods, games, and free wagon rides with $5 admission.

  • Special activities include Baby Goat Yoga and a Chicks & Sprouts Workshop on Saturday, and Bunny Yoga plus a Sheep Shearing & Fiber Arts Festival at Hana Field on Sunday.

Irvine's Great Park Transformation: Your Ideas Needed at Upcoming Open House

Attend the Great Park development open house on Tuesday, May 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hangar 244. Meet experts in landscape architecture, planning, environment, sustainability, and representatives from museums and performing arts to discuss the park's future. Share your ideas and be part of the journey.

#WeAreIrvine #YourGreatPark

Local Business Spotlight Feature

Discover Irvine's Hidden Gem: ZillyMonkey - Irvine's Treasure Trove of Unique Gifts & Enjoy Special Insider Offers

Welcome to this week’s special edition of Irvine Insider, where we shine a spotlight on the heart and soul of our community: local businesses that add a unique flair to our vibrant city. Today, we’re excited to feature a local gem that has been making waves with its extraordinary collection of gifts and contemporary merchandise, ZillyMonkey.

Founded in 2010 by Vivian Cheng, a former engineer with a lifelong dream of opening a gift shop, ZillyMonkey stands as a testament to the power of dreams fueled by passion and determination. Situated at 18011 Sky Park Circle, Ste P, Irvine, CA 92614, ZillyMonkey is more than just a store; it's a destination for those seeking the extraordinary.

Contemporary, Modern, Affordable

ZillyMonkey operates under a simple, yet powerful slogan: “Contemporary, Modern, Affordable.” This philosophy drives its selection of creatively designed, high-quality merchandise that won’t break the bank. From unique home decor to whimsical gifts, every item in the store is handpicked for its innovative design and uniqueness, sourced directly from globally recognized designers and popular international brands.

A Unique Shopping Experience

What sets ZillyMonkey apart is not just its vast array of products, but the shopping experience it offers. The store carries niche and hard-to-find items that shoppers won't easily find elsewhere, including on major platforms like Amazon. This commitment to providing exclusive, quality products makes shopping at ZillyMonkey not just a purchase, but an adventure.

Community and Recognition

ZillyMonkey's impact on the Irvine community goes beyond commerce. In March 2023, the store was honored with the Local Business Spotlight by Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, a testament to its significance and contribution to the local economy. This recognition reflects ZillyMonkey’s commitment to enriching the Irvine community, not just through its products, but through its spirit and dedication.

Looking Forward

The future looks bright for ZillyMonkey. After 14 years of operation, the store recently moved to a larger location to accommodate its growing inventory and customer base. With a soft opening already under its belt since September 2023, ZillyMonkey is eagerly planning a grand opening sometime in 2024, promising even more unique finds and delightful surprises for its customers.

Connect with ZillyMonkey

To explore ZillyMonkey's wide range of products and stay updated on their latest collections and events, visit their website at zillymonkey.com. You can also follow their journey and connect with them on social media through Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Facebook, and Yelp.

Receive a complimentary gift with your purchase, no minimum required, exclusively for walk-in customers who mention "Irvine Insider." This special offer is valid through April 30, 2024.

In the heart of Irvine, ZillyMonkey stands as a beacon for those seeking gifts that tell a story, items that add a touch of whimsy to their homes, or simply a place to find joy in the beautifully designed. Vivian Cheng’s dream of bringing contemporary, modern, and affordable gifts to the community has indeed come true, making ZillyMonkey a cherished part of our local landscape.

As we continue to support and celebrate the businesses that make Irvine unique, we invite you to visit ZillyMonkey. Discover the joy of finding the perfect gift and experience the wonder of a store where every item has a story waiting to be told.

Join an All-Ages Coloring Time Event at Irvine Heritage Park Library

The Irvine Heritage Park Library is hosting a therapeutic coloring session for all ages, providing all necessary supplies. The event is scheduled for Sunday, April 7 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM.

Get Fast Relief for Skin Rashes with FCCMG's Expert Care – Open Daily

Family Care Centers Medical Group offers specialized urgent care for skin rashes, including conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis, across their clinics in Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Fountain Valley. Open daily, they provide personalized care with in-house labs for quick diagnosis, accept most insurance, and offer online check-in. They treat a wide range of rashes, from atopic dermatitis to ringworm, and offer specialized care for babies and children. Treatment plans are customized, with options including antibiotics and antifungal medications.

Don’t Miss the Fitness Hike at Irvine Ranch Open Space’s Hicks Haul Road

An exhilarating fitness hike is being offered on Hicks Haul Road within the Irvine Ranch Open Space, presenting options for 3, 6, or 8 mile routes at speeds of 3.0 to 3.5 mph on a paved road. The longer routes feature steep ascents and descents, while all routes have views of Orange County and possible wildlife sightings. This event is suitable for individuals aged 16 and above, and it is recommended to wear walking or running shoes.

Modern Makers Festival Hits Irvine This April - A Must-Attend for Creatives and Families

Attend the Modern Makers event at Woodbury Town Center, Irvine, on April 13-14 from 10am-4pm. Enjoy live music, family fun, handmade vendors, and a craft area for kids. Pets are welcome. Vendor registration available here.

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  1. May 11, 2024: Instrumental Music Awards

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

Upcoming University High School's Choirs Calendar

  1. May 2 & 3: Broadway Rocks! at 7:00 PM.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.uhschoirs.org/2023-24-season.html

Upcoming Woodbridge High School's Music Calendar

No events scheduled for April.

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. April 16th, 7 PM: IUSD Honors Concert

  2. May 31st, 7 PM: Broadway Rocks Concert

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

Upcoming Irvine High School's Music Calendar

No events scheduled for April.

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

Upcoming Irvine High School's Choral Calendar

  1. April 1st - 5th, 2024: TBD.

  2. Tues, April 16, 7:00 PM: IUSD Honors Concert (Selected Members) at OCPAC.

  3. Wed, April 17, 6:30 PM: 8th Grade Parent Night at IHS Gym.

  4. TBD: Aliso Women’s Festival (Canta Bella) - Location TBD.

  5. Wed, April 17, All day: Forum Festival (Concert Chorale, Chorale & Viva Cantar) at Knott’s Berry Farm.

  6. Wed, April 26, 6:00 PM: SPUR Awards (Chordinated Chaos) at IHS Theater.

  7. Tues & Wed, May 28 & 29, 3:30-6:30 PM: Dress rehearsal “Voices” (All Choirs) at IHS Theater.

  8. Thurs.- Sat, May 30-June 1, 7:00 PM: Voices 2024 (All Choirs) at IHS Theater.

  9. Wed, June 5, 7:00 PM: Heritage Awards (Chorale) at IHS Gym.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.ihschoralmusic.org/calendar.html

Keep Your Furry Friends Safe This Spring: Essential Tips for Pet Owners

Ensure your pet's safety during spring cleaning. Key tips include:

  • Window Safety: Ensure window screens are secure to keep pets safe and pests out.

  • Product Safety: Avoid cleaners with ammonia, bleach, or alkaline substances to prevent pet health issues.

  • Clean Safely: Keep pets in another room while cleaning and maintain ventilation.

  • Wash Bedding: Clean dog bedding regularly to remove bacteria, allergens, and fleas. Use non-toxic detergent and ensure thorough rinsing.

  • Toss the Toys: Wash or discard dog toys to prevent bacterial and fungal growth.

Enjoy a safe spring cleaning with your dog and take advantage of VCA's resources for pet safety. For more tips, visit VCA's website.

UCI Baseball’s Caden Kendle Shines on Golden Spikes Award Midseason Watch List

USA Baseball has updated the Golden Spikes Award Midseason Watch List, adding Anteater senior outfielder Caden Kendle among others. The list now includes 45 top athletes from college and high school baseball, with Kendle being notable for his .452 batting average and leading the NCAA with 1.9 hits per game. He's also recognized for his 63-game on-base streak, two home runs, and 27 RBIs. Kendle is the latest from his university to be acknowledged, following previous Anteaters and is the sole representative from the Big West conference this year. The selection process will continue with fan voting starting May 20, after the semifinalists are announced, and the finalists will be revealed on June 5. Fans can vote on GoldenSpikesAward.com, with the final vote closing on June 21.

Libby Alexander Named Anteater of the Week After Stellar Water Polo Performances

Libby Alexander, a junior, was named Sgt. Pepperoni’s Anteater of the Week for leading UC Irvine women’s water polo to two victories. She scored twice and assisted twice in a 10-7 win against UC Santa Barbara and contributed a goal and an assist in a 14-5 victory over Brown. Alexander tops her team with 33 goals and 44 points this season, setting personal bests in both metrics.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Baseball

  1. Fri, Apr 5: vs UC Santa Barbara, 6:00 PM

  2. Sat, Apr 6: vs UC Santa Barbara, 5:30 PM

  3. Sun, Apr 7: vs UC Santa Barbara, 1:00 PM

  4. Wed, Apr 17: vs USC, 6:00 PM

  5. Fri, Apr 19: vs San Diego State, 6:00 PM

  6. Sun, Apr 21: vs San Diego State, 1:00 PM

  7. Fri, Apr 26: vs Steve Scott Invitational, All Day

  8. Sat, Apr 27: vs Steve Scott Invitational, All Day

Men's Volleyball

  1. Fri, Apr 5: vs Hawai'i, 6:00 PM

  2. Sat, Apr 6: vs Hawai'i, 6:00 PM

  3. Fri, Apr 12: vs Long Beach State, 6:00 PM

Women's Water Polo

  1. Fri, Apr 5: vs Hawai'i, 7:00 PM

  2. Sun, Apr 7: vs UC Davis, 12:00 PM

  3. Sat, Apr 13: vs Cal State Fullerton, 12:00 PM

Men's Tennis

  1. Sat, Apr 6: vs Cal Poly, 12:00 PM

  2. Mon, Apr 8: vs UC Riverside, 1:00 PM

  3. Sat, Apr 20: vs Hawai'i, 12:00 PM

Women's Tennis

  1. Sat, Apr 13: vs Cal Poly, 11:00 AM

  2. Sun, Apr 14: vs UC Santa Barbara, 11:00 AM

Men's & Women's Track & Field

  1. Fri, Apr 26: vs Steve Scott Invitational, All Day

  2. Sat, Apr 27: vs Steve Scott Invitational, All Day

IVC Athlete of the Week: Patrick Riggs Leads Irvine Valley to Tennis Conference Win

Patrick Riggs, a freshman from Irvine Valley College (IVC), was named athlete of the week for his pivotal role in securing the Orange Empire Conference title for IVC's men's tennis team. Riggs, an alumnus of Woodbridge High, clinched a doubles victory and a hard-fought singles win against Riverside, contributing to a 7-2 match win. His efforts helped IVC maintain an undefeated conference record and a top ranking in Southern California. The team is set to participate in the OEC Individual Tournament.

Irvine Valley Men's Volleyball Secures 10th Season Win with Sweep Over Santiago Canyon

The Irvine Valley men's volleyball team recently faced two defeats against top Orange Empire Conference teams but recovered with a win against Santiago Canyon, sweeping them in three sets. This victory marked their 10th season win, improving their record to 10-6 and tying them for second place in the conference with Golden West. Key players included Zach McEntire with 13 kills and Matt Reid with 10 kills. The team's next game is at home against Fullerton.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Baseball

  1. Sat, Apr 6: vs Riverside, 12:00 PM

  2. Tue, Apr 9: vs Fullerton, 2:00 PM

  3. Fri, Apr 12: vs Fullerton, 1:00 PM

  4. Tue, Apr 16: vs Golden West, 2:00 PM

  5. Sat, Apr 20: vs Golden West, 12:00 PM

  6. Thu, Apr 25: vs Saddleback, 2:00 PM

Men’s Volleyball

  1. Fri, Apr 5: vs Fullerton, 6:00 PM

  2. Fri, Apr 12: vs Orange Coast, 6:00 PM

Women’s Beach Volleyball

  1. Fri, Apr 19: vs Riverside, 12:00 PM

  2. Wed, Apr 24: vs OEC Pairs Tournament, 12:00 PM

  3. Fri, Apr 26: vs OEC Pairs Tournament, 10:00 AM

High School Athletics Calendar -

** Updated With April Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

April 2024

Saturday, April 6

  • 07:00 AM: Track & Field, Boys VR - Invitational at Irvine High School Stadium

  • 07:00 AM: Track & Field, Girls VR - Invitational at Irvine High School Stadium

Monday, April 8

  • 03:30 PM: Softball VR vs. Portola at Irvine High School Softball Field

Tuesday, April 9

  • 03:30 PM: Golf, Boys VR vs. University

  • 03:30 PM: Baseball VR vs. Woodbridge at Irvine High School Baseball Field

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

Wednesday, April 10

  • 03:30 PM: Softball VR vs. Northwood High School at Irvine High School Softball Field

  • 05:00 PM: Lacrosse, Girls VR vs. Woodbridge at Irvine High School Stadium

Thursday, April 11

  • 03:30 PM: Golf, Boys VR vs. Woodbridge

Friday, April 12

  • 03:00 PM: Beach Volleyball, Girls VR vs. Bishop Conaty-Loretto at Deerfield Park Beach Courts

  • 03:30 PM: Baseball VR vs. Woodbridge at Irvine High School Baseball Field

  • 03:30 PM: Softball VR vs. University at Irvine High School Softball Field

  • 05:15 PM: Volleyball, Boys VR vs. Sage Hill at Irvine High School Game Gym

Monday, April 15

  • 07:00 PM: Lacrosse, Boys VR vs. Beckman, Arnold at Irvine High School Stadium

Tuesday, April 16

  • 03:15 PM: Tennis, Boys VR vs. Portola at Irvine High School Heritage Park

Wednesday, April 17

  • 03:30 PM: Baseball VR vs. Portola at Irvine High School Baseball Field

  • 03:30 PM: Swimming & Diving, Boys VR vs. University at Woolett Pool

  • 03:30 PM: Swimming & Diving, Girls VR vs. University at Woolett Pool

  • 05:15 PM: Volleyball, Boys VR vs. Laguna Hills at Irvine High School Game Gym

  • 07:00 PM: Lacrosse, Boys VR vs. Laguna Hills at Irvine High School Stadium

Thursday, April 18

  • 07:00 PM: Lacrosse, Boys VR vs. Canyon/Anaheim at Irvine High School Stadium

Monday, April 22

  • 05:00 PM: Lacrosse, Girls VR vs. Portola at Irvine High School Stadium

Tuesday, April 23

  • 03:15 PM: Tennis, Boys VR vs. Northwood High School at Irvine High School Heritage Park

  • 03:30 PM: Golf, Boys VR vs. Portola

  • 03:30 PM: Baseball VR vs. Beckman, Arnold at Irvine High School Baseball Field

Wednesday, April 24

  • 03:30 PM: Softball VR vs. Beckman, Arnold at Irvine High School Softball Field

  • 05:00 PM: Lacrosse, Girls VR vs. Northwood High School at Irvine High School Stadium

Thursday, April 25

  • 03:30 PM: Golf, Boys VR vs. Northwood High School

  • 03:30 PM: Baseball VR vs. Beckman, Arnold at Irvine High School Baseball Field

  • 05:00 PM: Lacrosse, Girls VR vs. Sage Hill at Irvine High School Stadium

Irvine PD Hunts for Suspect in U.S. Bank Daytime Robbery

On April 2, a man robbed the U.S. Bank in Irvine, demanding $18,000 but only getting $446. He fled in a white Toyota Sienna. Described as possibly Asian, around 5'5", 210 lbs, in his 40s, wearing a white hat, navy t-shirt, and blue gloves. Contact Irvine PD with info.

Irvine Police Nab Bicycle-Riding Burglar in Westpark Neighborhood

On Sunday afternoon, a resident of Westpark returned home to discover a burglar in their open garage. Upon confrontation, the suspect abandoned the stolen items and escaped on a bicycle. Irvine Police were notified and broadcasted a description of the suspect to other units. The suspect was later apprehended by officers while riding a bike near Barranca and Flight Way, found with a wallet and credit cards stolen from a previous relationship. The 38-year-old Long Beach man was arrested for burglary and possession of stolen property and is now in Orange County Jail. The incident serves as a reminder to always secure your garage and to provide detailed descriptions of any suspects to assist police efforts.

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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