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Experience the Magic of Nowruz: A Spectacular Concert with Pacific Symphony

Issue # 0368

Author

Joshua Tjia
20 Mar

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🏙️🙌 Irvine Ranked 3rd Happiest City in America

🎻🎼🎉 Experience the Magic of Nowruz: A Spectacular Concert with Pacific Symphony

📚📖 Your Voice Matters: Attend the Next Irvine Library Transition Meetings

🧋🍵 Bopomofo Cafe Now Open in Irvine—Bringing Premium Boba to Alton Square

🥨📚 Snack & Study: Quiet Study Space with Free Snacks

😷 Essential Tips for a Successful Colonoscopy Preparation

🦅💦🐟 The Osprey: A Raptor That Rules the Water

🧁🍪 Whisk, Mix, Bake! Create Sweet Treats in Irvine Fine Arts Center's Baking Basics Class

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐈‍⬛🐩 Spring Adoptions Await: Meet Your New Best Friend at Irvine Animal Care Center

🤽‍♀️ Madi O’Hara Named Anteater of the Week for Standout Women’s Water Polo Performance

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

⚾️ IVC Baseball Splits Series Against LA Harbor, Prepares for Saddleback Matchup

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚔🎯 Suspects Steal Items from Target on Barranca – Help Identify Them

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

Why did the carrot go to the hairdressers?

Its roots were showing.

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

Irvine Ranked 3rd Happiest City in America

Irvine ranks No. 3 in WalletHub’s Happiest Cities in America study, based on 29 key happiness indicators, including mental health, job satisfaction, and financial well-being.

  • The study found that 88% of Irvine adults report good or better health (third-highest nationwide), nearly 84% stay active, and the city has the seventh-highest life expectancy.

  • Irvine also has one of the lowest divorce and depression rates.

  • Among California cities, Fremont ranked No. 1, followed by San Jose at No. 2 (just 0.02 points ahead of Irvine).

  • Other CA cities in the Top 10 include San Francisco (No. 9) and Huntington Beach (No. 10).

Experience the Magic of Nowruz: A Spectacular Concert with Pacific Symphony

Celebrate Nowruz with NOWRUZ, THE CONCERT: The Return of the Masters on March 29 at 8:00 PM, at the Renée & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.

  • Presented by Farhang Foundation, this evening features the Pacific Symphony Orchestra led by Maestro Carl St. Clair, alongside the renowned Pournazeri Trio (Kaykhosro, Tahmoures, and Sohrab Pournazeri) and the Shams Ensemble.

  • Experience a mesmerizing fusion of Iranian music with breathtaking performances by Sahar Boroujerdi, Donya Kamali, and Tina Jamegarmi.

  • Tickets and information here

Your Voice Matters: Attend the Next Irvine Library Transition Meetings

The City of Irvine thanks everyone who attended Monday’s community meeting on the future of local libraries. Community input is essential in shaping a library system that meets residents' needs. For those who missed it, two additional sessions are scheduled:

  • Saturday, March 22 (10–10:45 AM) at 5301 California Ave., Suite 300

  • Wednesday, March 26 (7–7:45 PM) at Stonegate Elementary School, Multipurpose Room, 100 Honors.

These meetings provide an opportunity to learn about the transition and share feedback. More details at irvinepubliclibrary.org.

Bopomofo Cafe Now Open in Irvine—Bringing Premium Boba to Alton Square

Bopomofo Cafe, a modern Chinese/Taiwanese-American boba cafe, has opened in Irvine at Alton Square, bringing high-quality drinks with real lactose-free milk, no powders, and no artificial syrups. Originally from the San Gabriel Valley, the cafe is known for its commitment to authenticity and customer care. They’re excited to serve the Irvine community—check them out for unique, high-quality boba flavors!

📍 5365G Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA.

Snack & Study: Quiet Study Space with Free Snacks

Need a quiet place to study? Join the Snack and Study session at Irvine Heritage Park Library on Monday, March 24, from 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Enjoy snacks while you study in the program room. Open to pre-teens, tweens, teens, and young adults (ages 9-17).

Essential Tips for a Successful Colonoscopy Preparation

A colonoscopy is the best way to detect and prevent colorectal cancer, yet many people avoid it due to the challenging preparation process. Proper cleansing of the colon is crucial for an accurate exam. Dr. William Karnes of UCI Health highlights key tips for successful preparation:

  • Follow all preparation instructions carefully – A clean colon is essential for detecting precancerous polyps.

  • Time your prep correctly – Take the last dose of the liquid prep 4–5 hours before the procedure.

  • Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of clear fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

  • Avoid restricted foods and drinks – Stay away from alcohol, milk, high-fiber foods, seeds, and anything red or purple.

  • Check medications – Some prescriptions and supplements may cause constipation; inform your doctor beforehand.

  • Contact your doctor if unsure – If you have concerns, reach out for guidance on adjustments or rescheduling if necessary.

Following these steps can help ensure a smooth and successful colonoscopy.

The Osprey: A Raptor That Rules the Water

Meet the The Osprey! Known as the “sea hawk” or “fish eagle,” this raptor is a fishing specialist, expertly diving feet-first from heights of 30-100 feet to snatch its prey. With razor-sharp talons and an incredible grip, it thrives near lakes, rivers, and coasts worldwide. If you’ve ever seen a bird hovering over water before plunging in, chances are it was an Osprey in action!

Fun Facts:

  • 99% of its diet consists of fish

  • Can dive from 30-100 feet to catch prey

  • Has reversible outer toes for a strong fish grip

  • Found near lakes, rivers, and coasts around the world

Whisk, Mix, Bake! Create Sweet Treats in Irvine Fine Arts Center's Baking Basics Class

Level up your baking skills at the "Baking Basics" class at the Irvine Fine Arts Center!

  • Learn to make classic apple pie, moist olive oil cake, perfect chocolate chip cookies, and delicious tarts while mastering essential baking techniques.

  • Perfect for beginners or those looking to refine their skills. Register at cityofirvine.org/yourirvine.

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  1. March 20, 7:00-8:30 PM: IUSD Orchestra Festival, Woodbridge HS

  2. March 26, 7:00-8:30 PM: IUSD Wind Ensemble Festival

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

Upcoming University High School's Choirs Calendar

  1. May 1-2, 7:00 PM: Broadway Rocks!, 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. March 20, 7:00-9:00 PM: IUSD Orchestra Festival, Woodbridge HS

  2. April 17, 7:00 PM: IUSD Honors Concert, Segerstrom 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. March 21, 7:00 PM: Spring Concert, 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 20, 7:00-9:00 PM: IUSD Orchestra Festival, Woodbridge HS

  2. March 26, 7:00-9:00 PM: IUSD Wind Ensemble Festival

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

Spring Adoptions Await: Meet Your New Best Friend at Irvine Animal Care Center

Spring into adoption! The Irvine Animal Care Center has adorable pets ready for their forever homes—cats, dogs, and even guinea pigs!

  • Meet Dallas, Catniss, Alex, Maisie, Arco, and Bubbles, who are waiting to blossom with a loving family.

  • Find your perfect match and check adoption hours at cityofirvine.org/animals.

Madi O’Hara Named Anteater of the Week for Standout Women’s Water Polo Performance

Redshirt junior Madi O’Hara earned Sgt. Pepperoni’s Anteater of the Week after scoring five goals in UC Irvine’s wins over CSUN and Concordia. She led with four goals on five shots in a 19-6 Big West victory against CSUN, matching her career-high from 2024. O’Hara also added one goal and one steal in a record-breaking 28-15 win over Concordia, as UCI set a new school record for goals in a game. The Anteaters return to action March 25 vs. Brown at 6 p.m. at the Anteater Aquatics Complex.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men's Tennis

  • Sat, Mar 22 – vs Dartmouth, 12:00 PM

  • Sun, Mar 23 – vs Harvard, 1:00 PM

Women's Tennis

  • Thu, Mar 27 – vs UC San Diego, 11:00 AM

  • Thu, Mar 27 – vs Stanton, 3:00 PM

Women's Water Polo

  • Tue, Mar 25 – vs Brown, 6:00 PM

  • Fri, Mar 28 – vs UC Santa Barbara, 12:00 PM

Baseball

  • Fri, Mar 28 – vs UC Riverside, 6:00 PM

Men's Track & Field

  • Fri, Mar 28 – vs Vince O'Boyle Track & Field Classic, TBA

Women's Track & Field

  • Fri, Mar 28 – vs Vince O'Boyle Track & Field Classic, TBA

IVC Baseball Splits Series Against LA Harbor, Prepares for Saddleback Matchup

IVC baseball split its series against LA Harbor, losing 6-5 on Tuesday after a ninth-inning rally by the Seahawks, but bouncing back with a 4-2 home win on Wednesday. The Lasers now stand at 13-12 overall and return to conference play next Tuesday against Saddleback at 2 p.m. In Tuesday’s loss, sophomore pitcher Tyler Eastham threw six solid innings, while freshman Cole Lefebvre shined at the plate, going 3-for-5 with a home run. IVC had a 5-4 lead entering the ninth before an error led to LA Harbor’s walk-off win. Wednesday’s victory saw dominant pitching from AJ Roettger (7 innings, 1 hit, 2 runs) and Jackson Chastain (2 scoreless innings, 3 Ks) securing his second save. IVC's 13-hit offense was fueled by a four-run fourth inning with key contributions from Sam Tucci, Jackson Snitko, and Shaun McCaghren.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Men's Volleyball

  1. Fri, Mar 21 – vs Palomar, 6:00 PM

Women's Beach Volleyball

  1. Sat, Mar 22 – vs El Camino, 10:00 AM

  2. Sat, Mar 22 – vs Concordia University, Irvine, 1:00 PM

Men's Tennis

  1. Wed, Mar 26 – vs Linfield College, 10:00 AMv

Baseball

  1. Tue, Mar 25 – vs Saddleback, 2:00 PM

  2. Sat, Mar 29 – vs Saddleback, 12:00 PM

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With March Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

March 2025

Thursday, March 20

  • 3:15 PM - Tennis (Boys, VR) vs St. Margaret’s Episcopal at Irvine High School Heritage Park

  • 3:30 PM - Baseball (VR) vs Northwood at Irvine High School Baseball Field

Friday, March 21

  • 5:15 PM - Volleyball (Boys, VR) vs St. Margaret’s Episcopal at Irvine High School Game Gym

Suspects Steal Items from Target on Barranca – Help Identify Them

Two suspects stole multiple items from the Target on Barranca. When confronted, the male suspect (left) pushed the security guard aside. If you recognize them, contact [email protected].

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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