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Portola High Revolutionizes Engineering Education with Hands-On Learning Approach

Issue # 0118

Author

Joshua Tjia
12 Mar

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🏫🥽🪓 Portola High Revolutionizes Engineering Education with Hands-On Learning Approach

🚒🧯 OCFA Hosts Exciting Open House: Discover the Tools That Keep the Community Safe

🌳💧⛔ Efforts Underway to Reopen Southern Open Space Preserve Trails After Erosive Storms

🔧💦 Educational Workshop: Master Your Irrigation System with IRWD

📚☀ Dive Into Summer Education: Enroll in Crean Lutheran High School Programs Today

📰✒ What's New in IUSD: Literacy Boosts, Summer Prep, and Wellness Initiative

👩‍⚕️🩺 Discover How to Combat Lynch Syndrome, the Silent Genetic Threat, with UCI Health's Guidance

🌕🚶‍♂️ Under the Full Moon: Join Bommer Canyon's Nighttime Hike

🖼 Irvine Fine Arts Center Presents 'Reencuentros: Seeing You Again' – A Must-See Photography Exhibition

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐕‍🦺🐈 Irvine Animal Shelter: 22 Adoptions and Heartfelt Reunions Highlight the Week

🏐 UCI's Hilir Henno Earns Big West Offensive Player of the Week After Stellar OUTRIGGER Invitational Showdown

⚾ NJo Oyama Shatters Records, Leads UC Irvine to Historic Victory with First Cycle Since 1981

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

⚾ High School Baseball Roundup: Villa Park, Sunny Hills, Foothill Secure Impressive Wins; Woodbridge Makes a Comeback to Remember

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

Why do dragons often sleep during the day?

So they can fight knights.

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

Portola High Revolutionizes Engineering Education with Hands-On Learning Approach

At Portola High, engineering students engage in hands-on learning, building and using technology like 3D printers under the guidance of Anthony Pham, a dedicated teacher appreciated for his skill and passion. Hired by Principal John Pehrson to lead the engineering program initiated two years after the school's 2016 opening, Pham has developed a department that offers courses in various engineering disciplines since 2019. Recognized for his efforts in making engineering accessible to all students, including those not traditionally drawn to the field, Pham's department now boasts 150 students, with efforts underway to increase female participation. Pham, a first-generation college graduate with a background in mechanical engineering, emphasizes the importance of fostering a broad interest in engineering.

OCFA Hosts Exciting Open House: Discover the Tools That Keep the Community Safe

Join the Orang Country Fire Authority's open House this Saturday, March 16th, 10am-3pm! Explore their safety tools and equipment.

Note: No onsite parking, but 5 offsite locations available with free shuttles from 9:45am-4pm.

Efforts Underway to Reopen Southern Open Space Preserve Trails After Erosive Storms

Trails in the Southern Open Space Preserve remain closed due to over 9 inches of rain causing unsafe, wet, and eroded conditions. Efforts are underway with Irvine Ranch Conservancy to repair and reopen them. Thanks for your patience as we prioritize safety and conservation.

Educational Workshop: Master Your Irrigation System with IRWD

Attend a free IRWD workshop on Saturday, April 6 from 9-11 a.m. at IRWD Headquarters, 15600 Sand Canyon Ave., Irvine. Learn to repair common irrigation system issues like:

  • spray heads

  • plant obstruction

  • runoff/overspray

  • drip irrigation

  • sprinkler scheduling

Participants get free handouts and sprinkler keys.

Dive Into Summer Education: Enroll in Crean Lutheran High School Programs Today

Crean Lutheran summer school courses, available both on-campus and online, are open to all high-school students. The program welcomes students from any school, with exceptions noted in course descriptions.

"Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name." - Psalm 86:11

Register here

What's New in IUSD: Literacy Boosts, Summer Prep, and Wellness Initiatives

The latest IUSD Insights update includes:

  • a message from the Superintendent advocating for mindfulness during the busy end-of-year period

  • initiatives to support literacy at home

  • information on summer programs for students

  • a new partnership to provide free mental health services

  • tips for adjusting to Daylight Saving Time

  • an invitation to an Abilities Awareness Event

  • a call for applications for assistant principal positions

  • advice on recognizing signs of stress in children

  • updates on district achievements

The publication emphasizes the district's commitment to education, wellness, and community involvement.

Discover How to Combat Lynch Syndrome, the Silent Genetic Threat, with UCI Health's Guidance


Dr. William E. Karnes from UCI Health highlights Lynch syndrome as a common yet often undiagnosed genetic disorder that significantly raises the risk of colorectal, uterine, ovarian, and other cancers. He emphasizes the importance of awareness and learning protective measures against this syndrome. For more information, visit here

Under the Full Moon: Join Bommer Canyon's Nighttime Hike

Join the Bommer Canyon Preserve Full Moon Hike on March 25th for a 3-mile trek with sunset views and uphill challenges. This moderate-paced hike in Irvine Open Space Preserve features coastal sage scrub and city views, with 700 feet of climbing elevation, including a steep 300-foot incline.

Irvine Fine Arts Center Presents 'Reencuentros: Seeing You Again' – A Must-See Photography Exhibition

Attend the "Reencuentros: Seeing You Again" opening reception on Saturday, March 16, from 2-4 p.m. at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. Experience the unique perspectives of eight contemporary photographers on family and home. Engage with the artists, explore the power of photography, and celebrate diverse expressions of domestic life. More info at irvinefinearts.org/exhibitions.

#ReencuentrosExhibition

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  1. March 16, 2024: Irvine Jazz Festival (8:00 am - 5:00 pm)

  2. 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. March 14,15, 16: EVITA - Spring Musical at 7:00 PM.

  2. 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 March.

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. March 22nd, 7 PM: Spring Concert

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

  3. 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 March.

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

Upcoming Irvine High School's Choral Calendar

  1. March 12 or 13, Morning: IHS Arts Assembly (Canta Bella & Irvine Singers) at IHS Game Gym.

  2. Mon, Mar. 18, 7:00 PM: Spring Concert (All Choirs) at Concordia Univ.

  3. Fri, March 22, Morning: CSU Fullerton Festival (Irvine Singers) at CSUF Meng Hall.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  12. 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 Animal Shelter: 22 Adoptions and Heartfelt Reunions Highlight the Week

Between March 4 and March 10, a total of 15 dogs and 7 cats were adopted. Additionally, 3 dogs and 1 cat were reunited with their owners. For more details on adoption and viewing hours, visit irvineanimals.org/adopt.

UCI's Hilir Henno Earns Big West Offensive Player of the Week After Stellar OUTRIGGER Invitational Showdown

Hilir Henno excelled at the OUTRIGGER Invitational, earning his third Big West Offensive Player of the Week title this season. He averaged 5.93 kills and 6.33 points per set across three matches, making the all-tournament team. Henno matched his career-best with 29 kills against No. 1 GCU, followed by 24 kills versus Lewis, and set a new personal and national season record with 36 kills against No. 3 Hawaii. His 36 kills are close to the UCI rally-scoring record and the most in the country this season. Henno leads nationally in kills (4.75) and points (5.50) per set, with a .407 hitting percentage. This award marks his seventh career honor, with six for offense. UCI, ranked No. 5, will play No. 18 UC Santa Barbara next.

NJo Oyama Shatters Records, Leads UC Irvine to Historic Victory with First Cycle Since 1981

NJo Oyama led UC Irvine to a record-breaking weekend in Fresno, earning his first Big West Field Player of the Week award. Over five games, Oyama had 10 hits, 10 RBIs, nine runs, and seven extra-base hits. His standout performance included hitting for the first cycle for UC Irvine since 1981 during a 32-2 win, contributing to UCI's best season start (12-0) and an 18-game win streak since the end of 2023. Oyama's efforts also helped UC Irvine players win three of the first four weekly awards of the season.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Baseball

  1. Wed, Mar 13: vs UConn, 6:00 PM

  2. Fri, Mar 15: vs UC Davis, 6:00 PM

  3. Sat, Mar 16: vs UC Davis, 1:00 PM

  4. Sun, Mar 17: vs UC Davis, 1:00 PM

  5. Fri, Mar 22: vs Cal State Bakersfield, 6:00 PM

  6. Sat, Mar 23: vs Cal State Bakersfield, 1:00 PM

  7. Sun, Mar 24: vs Cal State Bakersfield, 1:00 PM

Men's Tennis

  1. Fri, Mar 15: vs Columbia, 10:00 AM

  2. Sat, Mar 23: vs Gonzaga, 11:00 AM

Men's Volleyball

  1. Wed, Mar 13: vs UC Santa Barbara, 6:00 PM

  2. Sat, Mar 30: vs CSUN, 6:00 PM

Women's Tennis

  1. Fri, Mar 15: vs Dartmouth, 2:00 PM

  2. Sun, Mar 24: vs CSUN, 12:00 PM

Women's Water Polo

  1. Wed, Mar 13: vs Concordia Irvine, 6:00 PM

  2. Tue, Mar 26: vs Brown, 4:00 PM

Men's Track & Field

  1. Fri, Mar 29: vs Vince O'Boyle Track & Field Classic, All Day

  2. Sat, Mar 30: vs Vince O'Boyle Track & Field Classic, All Day

Women's Track & Field

  1. Fri, Mar 29: vs Vince O'Boyle Track & Field Classic, All Day

  2. Sat, Mar 30: vs Vince O'Boyle Track & Field Classic, All Day

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Baseball

  1. Thu, Mar 14: vs Santa Ana, 2:00 PM

  2. Thu, Mar 21: vs Cypress, 2:00 PM

  3. Tue, Mar 26: vs LA Harbor, 2:00 PM

Men’s Tennis

  1. Thu, Mar 14: vs Orange Coast, 2:00 PM

  2. Sat, Mar 16: vs Bakersfield, 10:00 AM

  3. Tue, Mar 19: vs Fullerton, 2:00 PM

  4. Tue, Mar 26: vs Riverside, Tentatively rescheduled for 3/26 or 3/27, 2:00 PM

  5. Thu, Mar 28: vs Gustavus Adolphus, 2:00 PM

Men’s Volleyball

  1. Fri, Mar 15: vs Santiago Canyon *, 6:00 PM

  2. Fri, Mar 29: vs Golden West *, 6:00 PM

High School Baseball Roundup: Villa Park, Sunny Hills, Foothill Secure Impressive Wins; Woodbridge Makes a Comeback to Remember

- Villa Park defeated Los Alamitos 4-2: Jake Nobles pitched five scoreless innings with eight strikeouts for the win. Key players included Justin Tims (1 for 2, HR, 2 runs, RBI) and Aidan Young (1 for 2, double, 2 RBI).

- Sunny Hills overcame Yorba Linda 9-2: Brayden Chen and Zayyir Miramontes combined for seven innings, allowing four hits and striking out seven. Andre Katayama and Tyler Simkins contributed significantly to the offense.

- Foothill shut out Brea Olinda 6-0: Tyler Hawkins pitched five innings with one hit allowed and six strikeouts. Garrett Davidson led the offense (3 for 4, double, HR, 4 RBI).

- Woodbridge edged Northwood 3-2: In a Pacific Coast League series make-up game, Alex Johnson earned his first career victory. Nolan Stottlemyer and Jake Haruki were key offensive players, with Haruki driving in the crucial runs. Northwood had won the first two games of the series.

High School Athletics Calendar -

** Updated With February Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

March 2024

Wednesday, 13

  • 03:00 PM - Baseball, VR vs. Sage Hill at Irvine High School Baseball Field

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

Thursday, 14

  • 03:00 PM - Track & Field, Boys VR/JV/FS vs. Woodbridge at Irvine High School Stadium

  • 03:00 PM - Track & Field, Girls VR/JV/FS vs. Woodbridge at Irvine High School Stadium

  • 03:00 PM - Beach Volleyball, Girls VR vs. El Dorado at Deerfield Park Beach Courts

  • 03:30 PM - Golf, Boys VR vs. Beckman, Arnold

Friday, 15

  • 05:30 PM - Volleyball, Boys VR vs. University at Irvine High School Game Gym

Monday, 18

  • 03:00 PM - Beach Volleyball, Girls VR vs. Tarbut V Torah at Deerfield Park Beach Courts

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

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

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  • Kaiser Permanente Irvine Farmers Market

  • Saturday Farmers Market at Mariners Church Irvine

    • When: Saturday, 8 AM - 12 PM

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    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 4:30 PM

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    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM

    • Where: 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612

    • More Info: Tanaka Farms

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