• Irvine Insider
  • Posts
  • Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum Secures $8 Million Donation for Great Park Opening in 2026

Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum Secures $8 Million Donation for Great Park Opening in 2026

Issue # 0263

Author

Joshua Tjia
07 Oct

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

✈️🏙️ Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum Secures $8 Million Donation for Great Park Opening in 2026

🚔🚸 Traffic Bureau Issues 28 Citations in High-Visibility Enforcement Near University High School

🎥💵 Irvine High Student Wins $6,000 Grand Prize for Documentary on Frances Kelsey

📄✍🏻 IVC/IUSD Spring 2025 Dual Enrollment Registration Opens October 17

🌎⚠️ Magnitude 4 Earthquake Strikes Near Ontario Airport, Shaking Felt Across Southern California

🍔📚 Read, Eat, Repeat: Sign Up for the In-N-Out Reading Challenge

🤎🌾 How Sesame Oil Can Boost Your Health with Antioxidants and Healthy Fats

🌳🚜 Trail Improvements Underway: Temporary Closures at Bosque Great Park

🎶🎻 Pacific Symphony Secures New 3-Year Contract with 13.5% Pay Increase

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐕🥣 How to Feed Your Dog for a Long and Healthy Life

🎾 UC Irvine Men's Tennis Dominates at San Diego Classic with Four Wins Against Cal

🎾 UC Irvine Women’s Tennis Secures Six Wins at Beach Fall Invitational

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏐 Irvine Valley Women's Volleyball Sweeps Santa Ana for First Season Sweep

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈 Irvine High Football Dominates Santa Ana with Career Performances from Bui and Moss

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚔💥 Suspected DUI Accident Injures Five on 73 Toll Road in Irvine

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

Why did the pumpkin lose the boxing match?

He let his gourd down.

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

Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum Secures $8 Million Donation for Great Park Opening in 2026

The Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum, set to open at the Great Park in 2026, received an $8 million donation from the Ronald M. Simon Family Foundation. This gift will support exhibit expansion, artifact preservation, and educational initiatives, contributing to the museum’s mission to honor Marine Corps history. With this donation, the museum's capital campaign has raised $34 million of its $56 million goal. The museum, located in the Cultural Terrace area of the Great Park, will feature over 40 aircraft, artifacts, and a STEM education facility. Initially opened at El Toro Marine Corps Air Station in 1989, the museum was moved to Miramar after the base's closure and is now returning to Irvine following a 2022 City Council vote.

Traffic Bureau Issues 28 Citations in High-Visibility Enforcement Near University High School

The Traffic Bureau carried out High-Visibility Traffic Enforcement (HVE) near University High School, focusing on stop sign violations, bike helmet use, and following Crossing Guard directions. Officers issued 28 citations during the operation. These efforts aim to improve road safety and will continue throughout the city.

Reminder: always obey Crossing Guard instructions and slow down to the posted 25 MPH speed limit in school zones when children are present.

Irvine High Student Wins $6,000 Grand Prize for Documentary on Frances Kelsey

Irvine High junior Harmony Yan-Li won the $6,000 grand prize in the 2024 Discovery Award competition from the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes for her documentary on Frances Kelsey, a pioneering pharmacologist and physician. Harmony, the first California student to win the Grand Prize, received her award during a ceremony at her school, with classmates, family, and her teacher, Jennifer Harrington, in attendance. The Discovery Award encourages students to create projects showcasing individuals who have made a significant impact on positive change.

IVC/IUSD Spring 2025 Dual Enrollment Registration Opens October 17

Registration for IVC/IUSD’s Spring 2025 Dual Enrollment (CCAP) opens on October 17, offering IUSD students in grades 9-12 the opportunity to earn transferable college credits for Cal State and UC schools. Courses cover subjects like business, marketing, STEM, and more, taught by Irvine Valley College instructors on the students' own campus to provide real-world skills. More details and course listings can be found at iusd.org/DualEnrollment2025.

Magnitude 4 Earthquake Strikes Near Ontario Airport, Shaking Felt Across Southern California

A magnitude 4 earthquake struck near Ontario International Airport in Southern California early Sunday morning, marking the strongest in a recent series of quakes in the area. The 3:51 a.m. tremor was the fifth of magnitude 3 or higher since early September, with moderate shaking felt closest to the epicenter and weaker tremors reaching San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego counties. The quake’s epicenter was near the 60 Freeway and Archibald Avenue.

Read, Eat, Repeat: Sign Up for the In-N-Out Reading Challenge

From October 5 to November 16, children aged 4 to 12 can join the In-N-Out Cover to Cover Club by reading five books or 300 minutes to earn a free In-N-Out burger.

  • Parents can read to younger kids, and participants will track their reading in a log, which must be signed by a guardian.

  • Each child can earn up to three certificates for burgers during the program, with one certificate redeemable per visit.

  • Certificates must be claimed at the library where they registered.

  • For more details, contact your local library.

How Sesame Oil Can Boost Your Health with Antioxidants and Healthy Fats

Sesame oil is more than just a flavorful ingredient; it’s packed with antioxidants and healthy fats that offer numerous health benefits, according to Jessica VanRoo, executive chef for the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute at UCI Health.

  • Over 80% of sesame oil consists of unsaturated fats, which are key in lowering cholesterol and reducing heart disease risks.

  • The lignans in sesame oil, like sesamin and sesamol, have strong antioxidant properties that help combat cell damage, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system.

VanRoo, a certified culinary medicine professional, promotes these benefits through her work at UCI’s teaching kitchen and the UCI Health Live Well blog. Learn more here.

Trail Improvements Underway: Temporary Closures at Bosque Great Park

Work will be done on the Bosque Great Park Trails between Magnet and Irvine Boulevard from October 7 to November 1, to enhance the trail network. Sections of the trail will be intermittently closed during regular work hours but will reopen each day around 4 p.m.

Pacific Symphony Secures New 3-Year Contract with 13.5% Pay Increase

Pacific Symphony and its musicians have reached a new three-year contract agreement, featuring a 13.5% compounded salary increase, with annual raises of 6%, 3%, and 4%. This deal was achieved after six months of negotiations with AFM Local 7. Leaders from both sides praised the spirit of cooperation, looking forward to continued growth and excellence. As Pacific Symphony prepares for its future and the upcoming appointment of a new music director, this agreement reinforces its commitment to enriching the community through music, supported by loyal patrons and donors. Now in its 46th season, Pacific Symphony remains a cultural cornerstone in Orange County, known for its innovative programming, community engagement, and educational initiatives. AFM Local 7 continues its advocacy for musicians in the region, striving for fair pay and working conditions.

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

How to Feed Your Dog for a Long and Healthy Life

Feeding a dog well is essential to their health and longevity, with nutrition being a key factor that pet owners can control.

  • Dogs require different nutritional needs depending on their life stage, breed, size, and medical conditions, making a tailored diet crucial.

  • Rather than using a "one size fits all" approach, owners should work with their veterinarian to create a diet plan specific to their dog's needs.

  • Regular nutritional assessments help ensure that these needs are consistently met, as they may change with age or due to health conditions.

  • It's important to choose dog foods that meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and to adjust portion sizes based on the veterinarian’s guidance to maintain the dog's optimal health and weight.

UC Irvine Men's Tennis Dominates at San Diego Classic with Four Wins Against Cal

UC Irvine men's tennis team wrapped up the San Diego Veterans Tennis Classic with a successful performance, securing four wins against Cal. The Anteaters won three out of four singles matches, with standout performances by Rithvik Krishna, who finished undefeated, Sohrob Amiryavari with his second consecutive win, and Ruining Huang, who celebrated his first collegiate singles victory. In doubles, Amiryavari and Huang teamed up for a win. Next, the team heads to the ITA Southwest Regional Championships in Tempe, Arizona, from Oct. 17-22.

UC Irvine Women’s Tennis Secures Six Wins at Beach Fall Invitational

UC Irvine's women's tennis team concluded the Beach Fall Tennis Invitational with six wins out of nine matches. In doubles, Asha Gidwani and Nour Khayat secured their second victory, defeating Cal Poly 6-3, while Yen Nhi Nguyen and Kayla Meraz won a tight 7-5 match against a mixed pair from Cal Poly and UC Davis. In singles, Carolyna Fowler, Nour Khayat, and Haily Huynh each earned straight-set victories. Gidwani also triumphed in a close three-set match against Dana Kunza from Cal State Fullerton. The team now gears up for the ITA Southwest Regional in San Diego, scheduled for October 17-19.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men's Soccer

  • Sat, Oct 12: vs UC Santa Barbara, 6:00 PM

  • Wed, Oct 16: vs Cal State Bakersfield, 6:00 PM

  • Sat, Oct 26: vs Sacramento State, 6:00 PM

Women's Soccer

  • Thu, Oct 10: vs Cal State Bakersfield, 6:00 PM

  • Sun, Oct 13: vs Hawai'i, 6:00 PM

  • Thu, Oct 17: vs Cal State Fullerton, 6:00 PM

  • Sun, Oct 27: vs Long Beach State, 6:00 PM

Men's Water Polo

  • Fri, Oct 11: vs UC San Diego, 6:00 PM

  • Sat, Oct 12: Ted Newland Alumni Game, 12:00 PM

  • Sat, Oct 19: vs Westcliff, 12:00 PM

  • Sat, Oct 26: vs UC Santa Barbara, 12:00 PM

  • Sun, Oct 27: vs Pepperdine, 1:00 PM

Men's Basketball

  • Wed, Oct 30: (Exhibition) vs Vanguard, 7:00 PM

Irvine Valley Women's Volleyball Sweeps Santa Ana for First Season Sweep

The Irvine Valley women's volleyball team secured their first sweep of the season with a 25-22, 25-16, 27-25 win over Santa Ana, improving to 2-11 overall and 2-3 in conference play. Despite trailing in both the first and third sets, the Lasers rallied with key plays from Katell Mehaignerie, Hailey Oldham, and Audrey Fowler to clinch the victory. Oldham led with 13 kills, Fowler contributed eight kills and 15 digs, and setter Alondra Castro added 35 assists. Irvine Valley will face Saddleback Wednesday at home at 6 p.m.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Men's Basketball

  1. Fri, Oct 11: vs Long Beach (Scrimmage), 11:00 AM

  2. Thu, Oct 24: vs Chaffey/San Diego City (Scrimmage), 4:30 PM

Men's Soccer

  1. Tue, Oct 8: vs Cypress, 3:00 PM

  2. Fri, Oct 18: vs Orange Coast, 3:00 PM

  3. Tue, Oct 22: vs Golden West, 3:00 PM

  4. Tue, Oct 29: vs Santa Ana, 3:00 PM

Women's Soccer

  1. Fri, Oct 11: vs Fullerton, 3:00 PM

  2. Tue, Oct 15: vs Santiago Canyon, 3:00 PM

  3. Fri, Oct 25: vs Saddleback, 3:00 PM

Women's Volleyball

  1. Wed, Oct 9: vs Saddleback, 6:00 PM

  2. Wed, Oct 16: vs Fullerton, 6:00 PM

  3. Fri, Oct 18: vs Santiago Canyon, 6:00 PM

  4. Fri, Oct 25: vs Orange Coast, 6:00 PM

Irvine High Football Dominates Santa Ana with Career Performances from Bui and Moss

Irvine High School's quarterback Khoa Bui and wide receiver Deacon Moss led the Vaqueros to a 22-7 victory over Santa Ana in the Iota League opener at Santa Ana Stadium. Bui threw a career-high three touchdown passes, all to Moss, who also set a career high with three touchdown receptions. Brandon Figueroa added 115 rushing yards for Irvine, who now stands at 4-2. The Irvine defense, led by Sina Saferzadeh and others, delivered a strong performance. Santa Ana’s Carlos Guerrero scored the team’s only touchdown, and Coach Tom Ricci emphasized the need to improve red zone efficiency despite the win.

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With October Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

October 2024

Monday, October 7 

  • 07:15 PM: Flag Football, Girls VR vs. University at Irvine High School Stadium

Tuesday, October 8 

  • 04:15 PM: Water Polo, Boys VR vs. University at Woolett Pool

Wednesday, October 9 

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

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

Thursday, October 10 

  • 03:00 PM: Tennis, Girls VR vs. Woodbridge at Irvine High School Heritage Park

  • 04:15 PM: Water Polo, Boys VR vs. Woodbridge at Woolett Pool

  • 07:00 PM: Traditional Competitive Cheer VR vs. Canyon/Anaheim at Irvine High School Stadium

  • 07:00 PM: Football (11 person) VR vs. Canyon/Anaheim at Irvine High School Stadium

Suspected DUI Accident Injures Five on 73 Toll Road in Irvine

Five people, including two children, were injured in a suspected DUI crash involving a wrong-way driver on the 73 Toll Road near Campus Drive in Irvine. The accident occurred around midnight when a Toyota Camry collided with a southbound Lincoln MKZ. Emergency responders transported the two children, their mother, and both occupants of the Lincoln to the hospital. The wrong-way driver was arrested for suspected DUI, and an investigation is ongoing.

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

September 14 - October 31 Pumpkin Patch at Tanka Farms

October 12 SFJAZZ Collective 8 PM

October 17 - 19 Classical Spooktacular 8 PM

October 20 Fantastic Symphony 3 PM

October 24 Esmé Quartet 7 PM

October 26 Monster Splash 2024 1 PM - 5 PM

October 26 Songs of the Soul 5 PM

We could use your help

We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!

One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.

Know somebody who lives in the Irvine and surrounding areas and would benefit from being kept in the know?

Please share Irvine Insider with them! It’s simple!