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Meet the Irvine Business Revolutionizing Parties: Nerf Party OC’s Story of Fun and Philanthropy

Issue # 0141

Author

Joshua Tjia
12 Apr

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🌳🛝 Learn About Great Park’s Transformation into a Tranquil Retreat at the Upcoming Open House

🛍️🍽️ From Shopping to Dining: The Evolution of The Market Place as OC's Landmark

🚙⚡️ Mazda's Electric Future: Aims for All-Electric or Hybrid Lineup by 2030

🍊🎈 Great Park Balloon Temporarily Closed for Maintenance

🔫🎉🥳 Meet the Irvine Business Revolutionizing Parties: Nerf Party OC’s Story of Fun and Philanthropy

🤖🎊 National Robotics Week: Explore IUSD's STEM Opportunities and Engineering Pathway

🌷🎗️🌷 Find Support and Care on World Parkinson’s Day with Irvine Adult Day Health Services

🌳🥞🌳 Pancakes and Paths: Gear Up for a Fun-Filled Saturday at Quail Hill Trailhead

🌃🧑‍🎨🖌️ Experience California’s Historical Landscapes Like Never Before at UCI’s Nighttime Art Exhibit

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐱🐶 Celebrating National Pet Day: Show Extra Love to Your Furry Friends

🏃🏾‍♀️💨 UCI Athletes Set New Personal Bests in Major Track and Field Events

🏃 UCI Decathletes Set Personal Bests at Bryan Clay Invitational; Multiple Records Broken

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🎾 Irvine Valley Tennis Secures First-Round Victory with 5-0 Win Over Bakersfield in Regional Playoffs

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

⚾️ Crean Lutheran High Competes for Third in Empire League with Strong Showing Against Valencia

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

👮💰 Suspect in Irvine Bank Robbery Arrested, Following Police Investigation

🚔🚨 Irvine Police Seek Public Help to Locate Caretaker Accused of Sexual Assault

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

Why was the bear lost in the forest?

Because he lost his bearings!

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

Learn About Great Park’s Transformation into a Tranquil Retreat at the Upcoming Open House

The Great Park is being converted into a peaceful sanctuary by the landscape design firm SWA. The plan includes a botanical garden, a Veterans Memorial Park, a forest reserve, a wildlife corridor, riparian arroyos, and a variety of California native trees. Join the SWA team and other contributors at the Great Park Open House on Tuesday, May 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. to learn more about the project. For more information, visit cityofirvine.org/greatparkframework.

#WeAreIrvine #YourGreatPark #GreatParkFramework #GreatParkDevelopment #GreatPark #Irvine

From Shopping to Dining: The Evolution of The Market Place as OC's Landmark

Since opening in 1988, The Market Place in Orange County has become a renowned live-work-play destination. It combines 137 shops, 47 restaurants, 1.3 million sq ft of office space, and six apartment communities. This mix-use hub enhances the city's economy by integrating lifestyle brands with one-of-a-kind dining, resort-style living, and ample workspace. Future developments include a community lawn and two new apartment communities by next summer, further catering to the needs of young professionals.

Mazda's Electric Future: Aims for All-Electric or Hybrid Lineup by 2030

Mazda, headquartered in Irvine for North American operations, is advancing its design goal to become fully electric or hybrid by 2030. The Irvine base is crucial for research, design, and planning Mazda's future, particularly targeting the U.S. market. Mazda has reported a significant 23% increase in U.S. auto sales, the largest in 30 years, indicating strong momentum. The transition to electric vehicles will occur in three phases: starting with mild and traditional hybrids, followed by advanced hybrid technologies, and finally, a range of battery-operated vehicles (BEVs). Tom Donnelly, president and CEO of Mazda North America, emphasized the company's readiness to meet consumer demands by 2030. Additionally, Mazda prioritizes safety, leading in rankings for small SUVs and cars. The company also focuses on enhancing customer experience, with over half of its 500 dealerships upgraded in the past decade. The U.S. remains Mazda's largest market.

Great Park Balloon Temporarily Closed for Maintenance

The Great Park Balloon is currently closed for maintenance. Stay tuned for reopening updates. Meanwhile, explore other activities at Great Park at yourgreatpark.org.

Local Business Spotlight Feature

Meet the Irvine Business Revolutionizing Parties: Nerf Party OC’s Story of Fun and Philanthropy

Welcome to this edition of Irvine Insider, where we shine a spotlight on a unique business that make our community vibrant and exciting.

In the heart of Irvine, a unique business thrives, offering a blend of excitement, entertainment, and community service that stands out distinctly. Nerf Party OC, established in 2016, has quickly become a go-to source for unforgettable party experiences. Catering to birthdays, summer camps, youth groups, and special events, Nerf Party OC provides mobile Nerf parties, laser tag, gel blasters, and dodgeball events that promise fun without the mess and bruises typically associated with paintball.

A Journey from Idea to Success

The story of Nerf Party OC is as heartwarming as it is inspiring. The idea was born out of a young boy’s desire to earn money for science camp in 6th grade, blossoming into a business that was nominated for "Orange Coast Magazine’s" Top 10 New Businesses of the Year in 2018. With over 300 events held annually across Orange County, Nerf Party OC has become synonymous with quality, fun, and community spirit.

What Sets Nerf Party OC Apart?

At its core, Nerf Party OC values honesty and customer satisfaction above all, establishing itself as a reputable local business that consistently puts its customers first. This dedication to service and quality has endeared Nerf Party OC to the hearts of its clients and the wider Irvine community.

Community First: A Commitment to Giving Back

True to its community-focused ethos, Nerf Party OC donates 10% of its proceeds to local charities and community organizations, underscoring a deep commitment to giving back and fostering a sense of unity and support within Irvine.

Looking Ahead: Expanding the Fun

With seven and a half years of successful operations behind it, Nerf Party OC is not resting on its laurels. The business is exploring opportunities for a permanent location, aiming to expand its offerings and continue bringing joy and excitement to its clientele.

Connect with Nerf Party OC

To learn more about Nerf Party OC or to book your next event, visit their website at www.NerfPartyOC.com. You can also follow them on Facebook at NerfPartyOC to stay updated on their latest offerings and events.

For a limited time use Promo Code “Business Insider 10% off” to receive 10% off your next Nerf, Laser Tag, or Gel Blaster Event.

In Irvine, where community and innovation go hand in hand, Nerf Party OC stands out as a beacon of fun, service, and dedication. Whether you’re planning a birthday bash or looking for a unique way to celebrate with friends and family, Nerf Party OC is ready to make your event unforgettable. Join the hundreds of satisfied customers and experience the excitement that only Nerf Party OC can provide.

National Robotics Week: Explore IUSD's STEM Opportunities and Engineering Pathway

Happy National Robotics Week! Dive into the world of robotics and STEM with this special week dedicated to fostering interest and skills in these exciting fields. Irvine Unified School District (IUSD) actively supports students in exploring robotics through school clubs and the Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway in Engineering. For more detailed information on how to get involved and further details on the engineering pathway, visit iusd.org/STEM and iusd.org/CTE.

Find Support and Care on World Parkinson’s Day with Irvine Adult Day Health Services

World Parkinson’s Day unites those affected by Parkinson’s, including patients, researchers, and supporters, to raise awareness of the condition. Parkinson’s is a worsening neurological disorder with over 40 varied symptoms, making it the fastest-growing neurological condition globally. About 1 in 37 people will be diagnosed with it during their lifetime, with men being 1.5 times more likely than women. In the US, around 90,000 new cases are reported annually. Irvine Adult Day Health Services provides care for those with Parkinson’s, offering support at 949-262-1123.

Pancakes and Paths: Gear Up for a Fun-Filled Saturday at Quail Hill Trailhead

This Saturday, April 13th, come celebrate Open Space at Quail Hill Trailhead in Irvine! It's organized by the city of Irvine and work at Irvine company. The event starts at 9 a.m. with a pancake breakfast, followed by speeches at 10:30 a.m. and a guided hike. Don’t miss it at 34 Shady Canyon Drive!

Experience California’s Historical Landscapes Like Never Before at UCI’s Nighttime Art Exhibit

Associate Dean Jesse Colin Jackson's exhibition, "Plein-Air en Plein Air," presents a unique outdoor display of historical California landscapes at UCI. The exhibit, organized by the Langson Institute and Museum of California Art, features projections of 19th and 20th-century paintings on the university's Social Sciences buildings. Jackson uses these projections to enhance the original artworks' colors and brushstrokes, creating a dynamic interaction with the campus architecture and light. The event runs from 7 p.m. on April 12 to midnight on April 14, emphasizing the interplay of light with both the art and the environment, symbolizing the ever-changing nature of California's landscapes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  8. 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

Celebrating National Pet Day: Show Extra Love to Your Furry Friends

Happy National Pet Day! Celebrate your pets today by:

  • spending quality time with them

  • spoiling them with treats or a new toy

  • taking them for a long walk or adventure

Pets add immense joy and companionship to our lives with their unique expressions of affection. Check out available animals and adoption details (https://bit.ly/4cMKSQ0).

#NationalPetDay #LoveYourPet #IrvineAnimals #WeAreIrvine #IrvineAnimalCareCenter

UCI Athletes Set New Personal Bests in Major Track and Field Events

At the Bryan Clay Invitational and the Pacific Coast Intercollegiate events, several athletes from UCI achieved personal records. Sameen Andar posted a near record-setting time in the 10,000 meters. Jolie Robinson and Jazzmine Davis both excelled in the heptathlon, with Robinson hitting personal bests in all events on the first day. At the Pacific Coast Intercollegiate in Long Beach, Hallena Sutherland's sprint in the 100m dash marked the second fastest time in UCI history, among other notable performances in track and field events.

UCI Decathletes Set Personal Bests at Bryan Clay Invitational; Multiple Records Broken

At the Bryan Clay Invitational in Azusa, Josh Farmer and Max Daniels excelled, leading their decathlon groups with personal records. Farmer topped Group A with 4,181 points and Daniels led Group B with 4,010 points after five events. Meanwhile, at the Pacific Coast Invitational in Long Beach, several athletes set personal and season bests. Drew Pickett and Jarel Sayles competed in the 110m hurdles, Brandon Burns ran in the 100m dash, and field events saw strong performances in shot put and discus, with notable results from Justin Willingham, Kenechukwu Okonkwo, Jacob Hawkins, and Chimobi Onye.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Baseball

  1. Wed, Apr 17: vs USC, 6:00 PM

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

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

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

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

Men's Volleyball

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

Women's Water Polo

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

Men's Tennis

  1. 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

Irvine Valley Tennis Secures First-Round Victory with 5-0 Win Over Bakersfield in Regional Playoffs

Irvine Valley College was the top seed in the Southern California 3C2A Regional Playoffs, demonstrating their ranking by defeating No. 6 Bakersfield 5-0 in the first round. The match started with Irvine Valley already ahead by two points due to Bakersfield's default in No. 3 doubles and No. 6 singles. The Lasers secured the win after dominating in doubles and with Lucas Torres' decisive 6-0, 6-1 victory in No. 5 singles. Postseason rules end matches when a team reaches five wins. Irvine Valley will face third-seeded Glendale, who they narrowly defeated earlier in the season, in the next round at home.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Baseball

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

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

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

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

Men’s Volleyball

  1. 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

Crean Lutheran High Competes for Third in Empire League with Strong Showing Against Valencia

Crean Lutheran High School's baseball team is vying for a playoff spot in the Empire League, currently tied for third with Tustin and Kennedy. The team showcased strong early performance in their recent 9-1 victory against Valencia, building momentum with solid pitching and effective batting. With a mostly new roster compared to last year's CIF Division 4 finalist team, the Saints are working through some growing pains but remain optimistic about their playoff chances. They aim to leverage their youthful energy and team dynamics to advance further this season.

High School Athletics Calendar -

** Updated With April Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

April 2024

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

Suspect in Irvine Bank Robbery Arrested, Following Police Investigation

Irvine Police Department arrested 57-year-old Mark Meng from Irvine for a bank robbery. After investigating, they confirmed Meng as the suspect and found further evidence at his residence. Meng has been booked into Orange County Jail. The robbery took place on April 2, 2024, at U.S. Bank in Irvine, where a male suspect demanded $18,000, obtaining $446.

Irvine Police Seek Public Help to Locate Caretaker Accused of Sexual Assault

Irvine Police Department is searching for 58-year-old Robert Delacruz of Tustin, accused of sexually assaulting a disabled adult in his care. The assaults reportedly occurred from June 2022 to March 2024. Evidence supporting the allegations was found in his home. Delacruz drives a 2014 blue Toyota FJ Cruiser, license plate BASTOS2. Contact Detective Craig Voors at 949-724-7131 or [email protected] with any information.

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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