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Meet Hannah Tjia: Irvine's Emerging Talent in Magical Realism

Issue # 0155

Author

Joshua Tjia
02 May

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

👩🏻‍🏫📖 Make a Difference in Education: IUSD Hiring Teachers for Upcoming School Year

🚧🚙 Navigating Irvine: Key Road and Freeway Closures to Plan Your Week Ahead

🎏🍓 Strawberry Picking and Cultural Fusion Festival This Weekend at Tanaka Farms

💃 Grab Your Tickets Now: IVC’s Boundless Dance Concert Hits the Stage This Spring

🔊📣🎤 Conquering Stage Fright with Irvine's Own Speak Doctor, Till K. Kahrs

🌎⚠️ Light 4.1 Earthquake Hits Southern California: No Major Damage Reported

🧒🏻📖 Join Toddler Story Time at Irvine University Park Library

🏥🩺✨ Excellence in Healthcare: UCI Medical Center Continues to Lead with 19th 'A' Grade in Leapfrog Hospital Safety Rankings

🌳🌿 Restoring Nature, One Acre at a Time: Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s Achievements in 2023

👩🏻‍🎨💮✍🏻 Meet Hannah Tjia: Irvine's Emerging Talent in Magical Realism

🎨 Sign Up Now: Teen Drawing Classes Begin at Irvine Fine Arts Center

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐈‍⬛🐾 Irvine's Big Adoption Week: 8 Dogs, 11 Cats, and More Find New Homes

⚾️ 8 Runs, 1 Career Best: UC Irvine Baseball Triumphs Over San Diego Toreros with 8-4 Victory

🎾 UC Irvine's Rei Harashima Places Third at Big West Men's Golf Championship

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

⚾️ Four Lasers Shine: Irvine Valley Baseball Players Earn Spots on All-Conference Teams

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🎾 Irvine's Own SangHyuk Im Takes His Talents to MIT for Tennis and Academics

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚔 💊 Four Arrested in Irvine for Narcotic Sales; Stolen Motorcycle Recovered

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

Why did the killer whale go to jail for stealing all the diamonds?

Because he was the one that orca-strated the heist!

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

Make a Difference in Education: IUSD Hiring Teachers for Upcoming School Year

IUSD is recruiting teachers! Join a top-rated school district committed to Continuous Improvement, with award-winning programs, professional learning opportunities, and competitive salaries. Explore available positions at edjoin.org/iusd.

Navigating Irvine: Key Road and Freeway Closures to Plan Your Week Ahead

Road Construction & Improvement Projects, May 2-9

- Main Street Paving: Ongoing repaving from Culver Drive to San Diego Creek Channel through mid-June. Work hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., with one lane open each direction. Expect delays; alternate routes recommended.

- CicloIrvine Event: First-ever open streets event on May 4, closing Barranca Parkway. Detours start at 6 a.m., full closures by 10 a.m., event 11 a.m.-4 p.m., streets reopen by 7 p.m. Major crossings and commercial parking remain accessible. More info at cityofirvine.org/cicloirvine.

- SR-261 Lane and Ramp Closures: Lane and ramp closures on SR-261 for pavement rehabilitation and striping refreshment. Closures include nighttime lane closures on north and southbound lanes from May 1-3, and various on- and off-ramp closures at specific times.

- SR-133 Closures: Full closures of southbound 133 connector to northbound I-5 and northbound 133 from I-5 to Great Park Blvd on select nights through May 3 for miscellaneous work, with posted detour routes.

Strawberry Picking and Cultural Fusion Festival This Weekend at Tanaka Farms

This weekend at Tanaka Farms, Irvine:

  • Strawberry Picking Tours: May 4 & 5, 9:30am - 2:30pm. Reservation required.

  • Baby Goat Yoga: May 4 & 5, sessions at 9:30am & 11am. Reservation needed.

  • Chicks & Sprouts: May 4 at 10:30am. Book your spot.

  • Fusion Fest (Cinco de Mayo & Children’s Day in Japan): May 4 & 5, 10am-4pm. $5 General Entry. Includes access to the festival with Mexican-Japanese fusion foods, educational exhibits, gardens, free games, and more. Additional costs for food, the Bee Train, and arts & crafts.

  • Entertainment: Kibou Taiko performance (May 4, 2:30pm), CSA Cooking Demo with Chef Jeannie Lin featuring seasonal dishes and a dessert (May 4, 12pm), and special Japanese Storytime by Nova Vita Foundation, plus origami making (May 5, 10am-1:30pm).

General entry to Fusion Fest is included with any farm tour or activity ticket. Visit Tanaka Farms’ website for more details and to book tickets.

Grab Your Tickets Now: IVC’s Boundless Dance Concert Hits the Stage This Spring

This Spring 2024, Irvine Valley College invites you to the Boundless Dance Concert on the Rezanoor Stage. The show includes choreography by faculty, students, and guest artists Kristin Kusanovich, Tim Stevenson, and Sara VonGillern. Experience a mix of live and filmed dance performances. Proceeds will support the IVC Department of Dance. Tickets are available here.

Local Business Spotlight Feature

Conquering Stage Fright with Irvine's Own Speak Doctor, Till K. Kahrs

Welcome to this edition of Irvine Insider’s Business Spotlight, where we dive into the fascinating world of local talents and entrepreneurs who make Irvine a vibrant community. Today, we’re featuring an exceptional local gem, Till K. Kahrs, also known as The Speak Dr., a renowned public speaking coach and a captivating entertainer with a passion for performance.

Overcoming the #1 Fear: Public Speaking

Till K. Kahrs has dedicated over 30 years to mastering the art of public speaking, earning him the title of the #1 Expert for the #1 Fear. Whether it's a business meeting, a cocktail party, or a wedding toast, Till's expertise can transform nervous ramblers into confident speakers. His approach is practical, offering immediate, easy-to-implement strategies that anyone can use to enhance their speaking skills. Check out his insights and tips at http://thespeakdr.com/.

A Man of Many Talents

Not only does Till excel in public speaking, but he is also a signed recording artist, songwriter, and performer. His musical journey has seen him release a live album featuring tracks from performances at local venues like "The Original Crazy Horse" in Santa Ana and the Irvine Harvest Festival. His music is available on digital platforms such as Spotify, Amazon, and YouTube.

Community Contributions

An Irvine local for over 40 years and a proud alumnus of UC Irvine, Till has consistently given back to the community. From volunteering at The Paul Merage School of Business to offering free keynote speeches to students, his commitment to fostering talent and confidence in others is unwavering.

This letter of appreciation from UCI’s The Paul Merage School of Business testifies to the quality of Till’s training and presentation.

Stay Connected

For those who wish to learn more about Till Kahrs or even take a glimpse into his artistic world, visit his websites at TheTrainer4u.com or TillKahrs.com. Don’t forget to follow him on his social media platforms, available via his YouTube channel, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X

In Conclusion

Till K. Kahrs is not just a trainer; he’s a mentor, an artist, and a vibrant contributor to the Irvine community. Whether you are looking to conquer your fears of public speaking or simply enjoy some quality music, Till’s diverse talents are sure to enrich your life. We at Irvine Insider are proud to feature such an inspiring individual.

Thanks for tuning in to this feature spotlight. Stay tuned for more stories that showcase the incredible people of our city.

Contact Information:

For a limited time mention “Irvine Insider” to get 50% off the regular price of any of Till’s seminars and workshops.

Light 4.1 Earthquake Hits Southern California: No Major Damage Reported

A 4.1-magnitude earthquake struck Southern California at 1:49 p.m. on May 1, with its epicenter located in the mountains on the border of Orange and Riverside counties, about six miles southwest of Corona. The tremor was felt across various areas including Orange County, Temecula, Perris, Corona, Riverside, Los Angeles, and Santa Clarita. Generally, earthquakes of this magnitude cause minimal damage.

Join Toddler Story Time at Irvine University Park Library

Join Toddler story time at Irvine University Park Library, where toddlers aged 1-3 and their caregivers can enjoy stories, songs, and activities. This event is set for Monday, May 6, from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Admission is free, and no prior registration is required.

Excellence in Healthcare: UCI Medical Center Continues to Lead with 19th 'A' Grade in Leapfrog Hospital Safety Rankings

UCI Medical Center, an integral part of UCI Health in Orange, California, has sustained its reputation for excellence in patient safety by receiving an 'A' grade in the Spring 2024 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. This recognition marks the 19th 'A' grade since 2014, placing UCI Medical Center in the top 30% of hospitals nationwide. The grade is based on the hospital’s success in preventing medical errors and harm to patients, with the grading system being transparent and peer-reviewed. UCI Medical Center’s commitment to top-tier care is further recognized by various national accolades, reflecting its role as a leader in healthcare quality across the country.

Restoring Nature, One Acre at a Time: Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s Achievements in 2023

In 2023, the Irvine Ranch Conservancy (IRC) achieved significant milestones in habitat restoration, notably receiving completion approval for two major projects in Agua Chinon and Silverado Creek, funded by OC Transportation Authority’s Renewed Measure M Freeway Environmental Mitigation Program. These projects, which restored rare riparian habitats and took nearly a decade to complete, are part of IRC’s long-term commitment to enhancing ecosystems. Over the year, IRC maintained 1,402 acres, approved 334 acres of restoration, planted over 3,600 native trees, and initiated a new 22-acre project at Chino Hills State Park. More details on IRC's annual efforts and future plans are available in the full 2023 Annual Report here

Local Artist Spotlight Feature

Meet Hannah Tjia: Irvine's Emerging Talent in Magical Realism

In Irvine's dynamic arts scene, emerging artist Hannah Tjia captivates with her enchanting blend of magical realism and poignant storytelling. A gifted painter who began her artistic journey at the Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD), Hannah has quickly won the hearts of both the local art community and wider audiences.

As part of LCAD’s Professional Mentoring program, in her junior year, Hannah was blessed with the opportunity to be mentored by the prominent Dawson Cole Fine Art Gallery in Laguna Beach. Hannah had the honor of displaying her artworks at the main rotunda, which according to the gallery director, Mr. Richard Macdonald, “It was the very first time that they displayed a student’s art works in the main rotunda”

At her graduation, Hannah received the Honorable Mention Award from the Laguna College of Art and Design Board of Trustees.

Hannah's connection to art traces back to her childhood, filled with vivid memories of drawing, painting, and crafting stories. Despite a brief divergence during her school years, her passion was rekindled in college, leading her to a profound and unexpected revival of her artistic endeavors. "Each class drew me in, and I found myself longing to improve with every project," Hannah shares, reflecting on her transformative experience at art school.

Her daily art practice is a blend of discipline and spontaneity, balancing multiple projects to keep her perspective fresh and responsive. Hannah starts her day with calming routines—laying out her palette, cleaning brushes, and organizing her workspace—before diving into the creative process. Whether sketching initial ideas, making color studies, or painting, each step is a careful, thoughtful progression.

Hannah's award-winning piece, “Wolf Song,” exemplifies her unique approach to art. Inspired by a video game and reminiscent of Japanese woodblock prints, the painting and its accompanying poem tell a melancholic tale of companionship and longing set against a stormy, indigo backdrop. This piece won 3rd Prize in the Beautiful Bizarre Magazine Founders’ Emerging Artist Award, a testament to her skill and vision.

Wolf Song is currently on display at Brea Gallery as part of their MADE In California art exhibition from April 27 - June 23, 2024.

Asked about the influences on her work, Hannah cites a love for fantasy literature and folklore. "I find joy in exploring the ethereal through my art, making every day at the easel feel like Christmas morning," she explains. Her favorite tales include a mix of Western and Eastern folklore, showcasing her broad inspirations and narrative depth.

Looking ahead, Hannah dreams of exploring new mediums and collaborating on larger projects. "I am also intrigued by the idea of writing stories that could accompany my paintings or stand alone," she adds, hinting at the potential expansion of her creative expression.

Hannah's participation in the Beautiful Bizarre Magazine Art Prize not only connected her with a global network of artists but also encouraged her to share her work more broadly. "It's a wonderful way to admire and be inspired by the talent of others," she notes, recommending other artists take the leap into competitions to gain exposure and motivation.

For those enchanted by the interplay of reality and fantasy, Hannah's work offers a gateway into worlds both familiar and utterly transformative. As she continues to evolve and explore, the art community eagerly anticipates her next magical journey.

For more details on Hannah's artwork, explore her official website and follow her art journey on Instagram:

Mention "Irvine Insider" when making a purchase or commission inquiries to receive an exclusive discount.

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Stay tuned to Irvine Insider for more updates on Hannah and other talented artists shaping our community's art landscape.

Sign Up Now: Teen Drawing Classes Begin at Irvine Fine Arts Center

Join the Chuck Jones Teen Drawing: Observational Drawing class at the Irvine Fine Arts Center starting May 7, Tuesdays, 4–5:30 p.m. Designed for beginners and inspired by animator Chuck Jones, this class focuses on essential drawing skills like line, form, shading, and capturing proportions and perspective. Develop your confidence and artistic skills in a supportive environment. Sign up now at yourirvine.org!

#IrvineFineArtsCenter #ChuckJones #TeenDrawing #ObservationalDrawing #Animation #ArtHappensHere #WeAreIrvine

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 May.

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. 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 May.

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

Upcoming Irvine High School's Choral Calendar

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

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

  3. 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

Irvine's Big Adoption Week: 8 Dogs, 11 Cats, and More Find New Homes

From April 22 to 28, Irvine Animal Shelter successfully found new homes for 23 animals, including 8 dogs, 11 cats, 1 rabbit, 1 bird, and 1 guinea pig. Additionally, 4 dogs and 1 cat were returned to their owners. For adoption details and operating hours, visit irvineanimals.org/adopt.

8 Runs, 1 Career Best: UC Irvine Baseball Triumphs Over San Diego Toreros with 8-4 Victory

UC Irvine's baseball team ended April with an impressive 8-4 win over the San Diego Toreros at Fowler Park. The standout performer was pitcher Tim Grack, who delivered the best outing of his young career by allowing just one run over five solid innings, picking up his first career win in his fifth start. The Anteaters quickly took control of the game, scoring eight runs in the first four innings, including a key solo home run by Dub Gleed and critical two-out hits from Myles Smith and Caden Kendle. Despite the Toreros managing to score in four of the final five innings, the UCI bullpen effectively contained any threats, leaving multiple runners stranded. The game concluded with Ricky Tibbett navigating a bases-loaded situation in the ninth to seal the 8-4 victory. This win extends UCI's winning streak to eight games, with an overall record of 33-8. Key contributions came from all players, with every hitter getting a base hit and most contributing to runs or RBIs. The team looks to carry this momentum into a crucial Big West series at home against Cal Poly.

UC Irvine's Rei Harashima Places Third at Big West Men's Golf Championship

At the 2024 Big West Men's Golf Championship in La Quinta, California, UC Irvine's sophomore Rei Harashima finished third with a score of 9-under 207. Harashima was just one stroke behind the runner-up and five strokes from the top spot. Senior Darien Zhao tied for 15th, improving five places with a score of 219, and sophomore Yaoting Zou tied for 24th with 222. UC Irvine, seeded seventh, placed fourth overall with a team score of 1-over 865. Long Beach State claimed the championship title with a 14-under score.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Baseball

  1. Fri, May 3: vs Cal Poly, 6:00 PM

  2. Sat, May 4: vs Cal Poly, 1:00 PM

  3. Sun, May 5: vs Cal Poly, 1:00 PM

  4. Tue, May 7: vs UCLA, 6:00 PM

  5. Tue, May 14: vs Loyola Marymount, 6:00 PM

  6. Thu, May 23: vs CSUN, 6:00 PM

  7. Fri, May 24: vs CSUN, 6:00 PM

  8. Sat, May 25: vs CSUN, 1:00 PM

Four Lasers Shine: Irvine Valley Baseball Players Earn Spots on All-Conference Teams

Irvine Valley's baseball team saw four players honored in the all-Orange Empire Conference selections. Sophomore Caden Byers made the first team, while sophomores Shane Stafford and freshmen Aaron Serrato and Kade Murray were named to the second team. Byers, a pitcher, had a 6-3 record with a 3.51 ERA and 59 strikeouts. Stafford hit .289 with nine home runs and 34 RBI. Serrato, a catcher, had a .256 average with three home runs, while Murray led the team with a .318 batting average. Irvine Valley's overall season record was 14-26, with a 5-16 record in conference play.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

No upcoming IVC home games

Irvine's Own SangHyuk Im Takes His Talents to MIT for Tennis and Academics

Uni's SangHyuk Im has signed a national letter of intent to play tennis at MIT, praised by Trojans Coach John Kessler for being a standout student-athlete. He excels academically, especially in mathematics, and has shown leadership as the captain of the Uni boys tennis team, leading them to two CIF Open team championships. Additionally, SangHyuk has won two consecutive CIF doubles championships with different partners, exemplifying competitive spirit and sportsmanship.

High School Athletics Calendar -

** Updated With May Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

No upcoming home games.

Four Arrested in Irvine for Narcotic Sales; Stolen Motorcycle Recovered

Last week, Irvine SIU Detectives arrested four suspects for narcotic sales after a coordinated operation involving vehicle interceptions and searches of hotel rooms. The detectives seized fentanyl, methamphetamine, $10,840 cash, and a motorcycle stolen from Irvine. The suspects face multiple narcotics charges and one charge related to the stolen motorcycle.

#irvine #irvinepolice #irvinepd #arrest #detective #dontcommitcrimeinirvine

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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