• Irvine Insider
  • Posts
  • Shape Your Park: Irvine Residents Invited to Collaborate on Great Park’s Next Phase

Shape Your Park: Irvine Residents Invited to Collaborate on Great Park’s Next Phase

Issue # 0143

Author

Joshua Tjia
16 Apr

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🌳🪷🌳 Shape Your Park: Irvine Residents Invited to Collaborate on Great Park’s Next Phase

🌱🍓🐐 Discover What's Sprouting This Weekend at Tanaka Farms

🧤💦 Upgrade Your Garden: Get Expert Sprinkler Repairs and Save Money with IRWD’s Half-Off Program

👗👚 Irvine Welcomes New Goodwill Donation Center; Open Fridays and Saturdays

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

🌎📖 Earth Day Special: Local Libraries Share Storytime and Recycling Crafts

🌿🥗 Discover Heart-Healthy Eating with UCI Health’s Plant-Based Cooking Workshop

🚵‍♂️ Gear Up for Adventure: Enroll in a Mountain Biking Skills Clinic

🧑‍🎨🎨 Final Call for Entries for Irvine Fine Arts Center's 40th Annual 'All Media' Exhibition

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐇🐈 Adoption Success: 11 Pets Adopted, More Reunited with Owners

🏌🏻‍♀️⛳️ UC Irvine Sees Major Improvement in Second Round of Golf Big West Championships

🤽‍♀️ UC Irvine Triumphs Over Cal State Fullerton in Water Polo Showdown

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏐 Irvine Valley Men's Volleyball Seeded Sixth in 3C2A State Championships; To Face San Diego Mesa in First Round

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

👮🍼 Three Arrested in Irvine for Fraudulent Purchases of Baby Formula with EBT Cards

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

When should you buy a bird?

When it goes cheep!

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

Shape Your Park: Irvine Residents Invited to Collaborate on Great Park’s Next Phase

The Great Park in Irvine is evolving into a peaceful hub with lakes, gardens, and more, aimed at enhancing visitor connection with nature. An open house is scheduled for Tuesday, May 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hangar 244, where you can meet the team from various fields including urban planning and environmental sustainability, involved in the park's development. This event is a chance to share your ideas—no RSVP needed, and parking is available in Lot 2. More details can be found at cityofirvine.org/greatparkframework.

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

Discover What's Sprouting This Weekend at Tanaka Farms

Enjoy a sunny week at Tanaka Farms with several activities:

  • - Strawberry Street Fair and Picking Tours

  • - Baby Goat Yoga

  • - Shearing Day

  • - Farm-to-Table Cookout and High Tea

  • - Chicks and Sprouts Event

For more details and to make reservations, visit here

Upgrade Your Garden: Get Expert Sprinkler Repairs and Save Money with IRWD’s Half-Off Program

IRWD's Sprinkler Repair Program offers expert help for your aging sprinkler system, covering half the cost of eligible repairs and parts. This includes high-efficiency nozzles, drip irrigation, and smart irrigation timers. Save time, water, and money by visiting IRWD.com/sprinklerrepair for more details and to apply.

Originally from The Dirt, IRWD's gardening newsletter. Full issue available at IRWD.com/thedirt.

Irvine Welcomes New Goodwill Donation Center; Open Fridays and Saturdays

A new Goodwill Donation Center has opened in South Orange County, situated in the parking lot of Irvine United Congregational Church at 4915 Alton Pkwy. This opening is part of Goodwill's plan to expand significantly in the area over the next decade. Nicole Suydam, President and CEO of Goodwill of Orange County, emphasized the importance of donations in supporting the nonprofit's mission to help people find meaningful employment. The center will be open for donations of gently used goods on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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.

Earth Day Special: Local Libraries Share Storytime and Recycling Crafts

Celebrate Earth Day with a delightful story! Join Rita and Orange Count Public Libraries and make eco-friendly window decorations from recycled materials. Get kindergarten ready while crafting and learning about recycling.

#earthday #recycle #ocpubliclibraries #ocpl #kindergartenready #kindergartenreadiness #schoolreadiness #earlylearning #childrensbooks #kidlit

Discover Heart-Healthy Eating with UCI Health’s Plant-Based Cooking Workshop

Join UCI Health for a Plant-Based Cooking Workshop featuring Matthew Landry, assistant professor of population health & disease prevention, to explore the benefits of a plant-based diet in preventing heart disease. The next session features lentil chili on Wednesday, May 1, from 12-1:30 p.m. RSVP at https://bit.ly/3xwo1Im.

Gear Up for Adventure: Enroll in a Mountain Biking Skills Clinic

Join Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks’s mountain biking clinic perfect for beginners and those looking to start or enhance their skills with terrain-specific techniques. The class will be held on Sunday, April 28, 8 AM-12 PM. starts with basics like platform positioning, weight transfer, and bike maintenance, followed by hands-on practice over various man-made features (e.g., log piles, rock step-ups) at the Mountain Bike Skills Development area. The level-3 difficulty indicates a moderate challenge, suitable for participants 16 years and older. Key requirements include a suitable mountain bike with at least a 26" wheel, front suspension, and functional brakes, alongside personal safety gear like helmets and gloves.

Final Call for Entries for Irvine Fine Arts Center's 40th Annual 'All Media' Exhibition

Just 15 days left to enter your artwork in the 40th annual "All Media" exhibition, hosted by Irvine Fine Arts Center. This event features guest jurors Katie Hector, Paul Loya, and Patrick Geske. Open to various art forms like painting, photography, and sculpting. Great chance to engage with the local art scene. Submit soon! Details and application here

#CallForEntries #SouthernCaliforniaArtists #ArtOpportunity

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

Adoption Success: 11 Pets Adopted, More Reunited with Owners

From April 8–14, two dogs (Blu and Diego), eight cats (Frida, Milkshake, Monica, Pishu, Ridge, Sandy, Seven, Wanda), and one rabbit (Ashland) were adopted. Additionally, Diego the dog and Felicity the cat were sent to rescue. Seven dogs and one cat were reunited with their owners. For more adoption details and operating hours, visit here.

UC Irvine Sees Major Improvement in Second Round of Golf Big West Championships

UC Irvine improved by 13 strokes in the second round of the Big West Championships at Spanish Trail Country Club, Las Vegas, but remained in eighth place with a team score of 625. Sophomore Jasmine Chen led the team with a round of 75, moving up seven spots to tie for 26th. Freshman Alyson Sor led the team overall, tied for 23rd with a score of 155.

UC Irvine Triumphs Over Cal State Fullerton in Water Polo Showdown

UC Irvine, ranked No. 9/8, dominated Cal State Fullerton with a 15-4 win in water polo. The match was at the Anteater Aquatics Complex, boosting their record to 16-10 overall and 4-2 in the Big West. Airian Grisham led with a first-quarter hat-trick, and multiple players contributed significantly on both offense and defense. UC Irvine's next match is against No. 7/9 Long Beach State on April 18 at 7 p.m., marking the end of their regular season.

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 Tennis

  1. Sat, Apr 20: vs Hawai'i, 12:00 PM

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 Men's Volleyball Seeded Sixth in 3C2A State Championships; To Face San Diego Mesa in First Round

Irvine Valley men's volleyball, seeded sixth, will face third-seeded San Diego Mesa in the first round of the 3C2A State Championship on April 19. Irvine Valley finished the regular season with an 11-7 record, recently losing to top-seeded Orange Coast. Key players in the match included Drake Goering with seven kills and Zach McEntire with five kills and three blocks. Irvine previously lost to Mesa earlier in the season. The full first-round playoff schedule includes matches between Santa Barbara City and Orange Coast, Santa Monica and Long Beach City, and Moorpark against Golden West.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Baseball

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

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

  3. Thu, Apr 25: vs Saddleback, 2:00 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

High School Athletics Calendar -

** Updated With April Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

April 2024

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

Three Arrested in Irvine for Fraudulent Purchases of Baby Formula with EBT Cards

Three individuals were arrested by the Irvine Police last week for using fraudulent Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards to buy 64 containers of baby formula, often resold for cash. Further investigation revealed more fraudulent cards and panhandling signs in their vehicle. The suspects, from Anaheim, face multiple charges including burglary, grand theft, and identity theft, and are currently held at Orange County Jail.

#irvine #lawenforcement #orangecounty

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

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!