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Spotlight on Irvine: 2024 State of the City to Showcase Local Talent and Visionary Leadership

Issue # 0119

Author

Joshua Tjia
13 Mar

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

✨🏙️ Spotlight on Irvine: 2024 State of the City to Showcase Local Talent and Visionary Leadership

🐕‍🦺🐾❤️Paws, Play, Love: Discover How Fetch! Pet Care Brings Joy to Your Pet Friends

🚙⚡️ Rivian to Power AT&T's Fleet with Custom Electric Vehicles in Eco-Friendly Initiative

🛌🎖️ Pillow Drive for Heroes: Show Your Support for the 2/11 Marines Today

🎶🌙 Pacific Symphony to Celebrate Nowruz with Classical Persian and Sufi Music Concert on March 23

🌷🌼🌷 Exciting Weekend at Tanaka Farms: Spring Harvest Festival with Free Rides & More

🏥👧🏻 Interactive Health and Well-being Adventures Await at MemorialCare's Newly Opened Child-Sized Center

🎗️😷 Act Now for Your Kidneys: Learn How to Keep Them Healthy This National Kidney Month

🌸🌻🌸 Celebrate the Beauty and Impact: National Plant a Flower Day

🍞🧁 French Baking Class at Irvine Fine Arts Center: Master the Art of Brittany Flan & Caramel Crème

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐈🐕 Irvine Animal Care Center Launches Volunteer Drive for Foster and Transport Roles

🎾 UC Irvine Men's Tennis Secures Second Consecutive Sweep Against Case Western Reserve

🏀 Déja Lee and UC Irvine Standouts Sweep Big West Women’s Basketball Honors

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🔐🚴 Lock It or Lose It: Irvine's Latest E-Bike Theft Ends in Felony Arrest

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

If there is a king and queen-size mattress, where does the prince sleep?

On the heir mattress!

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

Spotlight on Irvine: 2024 State of the City to Showcase Local Talent and Visionary Leadership

The 2024 State of the City event is happening in a week at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. It's a community gathering with support from sponsors like University of California, Irvine, and UCI Health. The event on March 19 starts with a free public reception at 5 p.m., followed by Mayor Farrah N. Khan's address at 6 p.m., featuring performances from local groups. For more details and parking info, visit cityofirvine.org/stateofthecity2024.

#WeAreIrvine #StateOfTheCity

Local Business Spotlight Feature

Paws, Play, Love: Discover How Fetch! Pet Care Brings Joy to Your Pet Friends

In this week's edition of the Irvine Insider, we shine the spotlight on Fetch! Pet Care, a standout local business dedicated to providing compassionate and reliable pet care services in Irvine and the surrounding areas. Fetch! Pet Care has quickly become a cherished part of our community, offering a beacon of trust and love for pets and their owners.

The Story Behind Fetch! Pet Care

After a long career in Corporate America and a desire for change, the founder of Fetch! Pet Care embarked on a journey of entrepreneurship, fueled by a passion for animals and a vision to deliver the best pet care services around. This journey led to the creation of the OC Central location of Fetch! Pet Care, where the mission is to love and care for pets as if they were their own.

Why Choose Fetch! Pet Care

Fetch! Pet Care sets itself apart with a wide array of services designed to meet every pet's unique needs, including dog walking, pet sitting, "almost" overnight care, and much more. Here's what makes Fetch! Pet Care the go-to choice for pet owners:

  1. Experienced and Trustworthy Staff: Each sitter is thoroughly vetted, bonded, and insured, ensuring your pet is in safe and loving hands.

  2. Personalized Care: Offering a free in-home consultation to ensure a perfect fit between your pet and their sitter.

  3. Consistent Care: The option to request the same trusted sitter every time, providing familiarity and consistency for your pet.

  4. Stay Connected: Through the Pet Journal, you'll receive updates, texts, and pictures of your pet, keeping you connected while you're away.

  5. Convenient Scheduling: Easily schedule services through phone, email, website, or app, tailored to your needs.

Top Questions to Consider When Hiring a Pet Sitter

When it comes to hiring a pet sitter, it's crucial to make informed decisions. Fetch! Pet Care addresses your top concerns with transparency and dedication:

  • Q1: Are your pet sitters insured? Yes, our sitters are not only bonded and insured but are also passionate about providing the best care.

  • Q2: What services do you offer? From dog walking to "almost" overnight care, we offer a wide range of services. Visit our website for a complete listing.

  • Q3: How can I schedule a pet service? Schedule effortlessly through our app, phone, email, or website, tailored to your convenience.

  • Q4: Will you meet me and my pet before the scheduled service? Absolutely, we offer a free in-home consultation to ensure a great fit and peace of mind.

  • Q5: How do you operate? We provide personalized care in the comfort of your home or hotel, keeping you updated through our Pet Journal.

Community Involvement and Future Plans

Fetch! Pet Care is not just about services; it's about building a community. Through volunteering and participation in local events, they're dedicated to growing brand awareness and continuing to provide quality care to pets in Irvine and beyond.

Special Promotion

Mention “Irvine Insider” for a new customer promotion to save $20 on your first 3 pet visits, valid until 03/31/2024. It's an excellent opportunity for your pets to experience the love and care Fetch! Pet Care offers.

Stay Connected

Learn more about Fetch! Pet Care and how they can serve you and your furry family members by visiting https://occentral.fetchpetcare.com/. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates and engaging pet content.

Fetch! Pet Care embodies everything a pet care service should be – compassionate, reliable, and deeply rooted in the community. Whether you need a trusted companion for your pet while you're away or are looking for a community-minded business to support, Fetch! Pet Care is ready to serve you and your furry family members.

Rivian to Power AT&T's Fleet with Custom Electric Vehicles in Eco-Friendly Initiative

Rivian Automotive, based in Irvine, will supply AT&T with custom electric vans, trucks, and SUVs to reduce carbon emissions and enhance safety. The delivery of these vehicles to AT&T's fleet will start early this year. This move strengthens the partnership between Rivian and AT&T, with AT&T serving as the exclusive digital connectivity provider for Rivian vehicles in the U.S. and Canada. Rivian also collaborates with Amazon, which aims to use 100,000 Rivian electric vans for deliveries by 2030, with over 10,000 already in use in the U.S. and Europe.

Pillow Drive for Heroes: Show Your Support for the 2/11 Marines Today

Support returning 2/11 Marines by joining Irvine’s the mission to collect 100 new bed pillows and pillowcases with the Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee. Be part of the "pillow operation" to show Marines community warmth. The campaign runs until April 13. Visit https://www.vicemayorlarryagran.org/ for more info.

#WelcomeHomeMarines #CommunityPride #211MarinesBattalion

Pacific Symphony to Celebrate Nowruz with Classical Persian and Sufi Music Concert on March 23

Celebrate Nowruz with Pacific Symphony on March 23 at 8:00 pm at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Enjoy an evening of Classical Persian and Sufi music. Tickets available here

Exciting Weekend at Tanaka Farms: Spring Harvest Festival with Free Rides & More

This weekend at Tanaka Farms (3/16-3/17), enjoy the Spring Harvest Festival with:

  • FREE tractor rides (with $5 admission)

  • St. Patrick's Day Farm-to-Table Cookout Tour (Sat & Sun at 11am)

  • Baby Goat Yoga (Sat at 9:30 & 11am)

  • Chicks & Sprouts workshop for kids (Sat at 10:30am)

#SupportLocal #FarmLife #StPatricksDay #FamilyFun

Interactive Health and Well-being Adventures Await at MemorialCare's Newly Opened Child-Sized Center

MemorialCare's new child-sized health center at Pretend City Children’s Museum is open, offering interactive and educational role-playing activities for kids to learn about health and well-being. The space, sponsored by Igniting Potential donors like the Duchene Family, Dr. Steve Ngo, and MemorialCare, invites young visitors to explore and play.

#pretendcity #memorialcare #healthcenter #learningspace #healthyliving

Act Now for Your Kidneys: Learn How to Keep Them Healthy This National Kidney Month

National Kidney Month emphasizes the importance of kidney health and how urine color can indicate health and hydration levels. For more on kidney care, visit UCI Health Center for Urological Care.

#NationalKidneyMonth #kidneydisease

Celebrate the Beauty and Impact: National Plant a Flower Day

Celebrate National Plant a Flower Day! Planting flowers supports biodiversity and helps the environment. Join in the beauty and positive impact.

French Baking Class at Irvine Fine Arts Center: Master the Art of Brittany Flan & Caramel Crème

Learn to make classic French pastries at the French Baking class, featuring Brittany Flan & Caramel Crème, on March 26, 6–8:30 p.m., at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. Master the Flan Parisian and Caramel Crème in a fun, social setting. Limited spots available. Register at yourirvine.org.

#FrenchBakingClass #LearnToCook #IrvineFineArtsCenter

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 Care Center Launches Volunteer Drive for Foster and Transport Roles

The Irvine Animal Care Center is seeking volunteers aged 18+ for Foster Care and Transport roles to help with underage kittens and puppies, animals recovering from surgery, and transporting injured wildlife. Interested individuals can learn more and apply at irvineanimals.org/volunteer.

#IrvineAnimalCareCenter #IrvineAnimals

UC Irvine Men's Tennis Secures Second Consecutive Sweep Against Case Western Reserve

UC Irvine's men's tennis team secured a 7-0 win against Case Western Reserve, marking their second consecutive sweep and improving their record to 8-4, with a perfect 7-0 at home. The victory came despite facing the defending NCAA Division III National Champions, Case Western Reserve, who are ranked fourth nationally and dropped to 10-3. UCI dominated in doubles and singles, with notable performances leading to individual win streaks. They are set to face No. 6 Columbia at home on March 15 at 10:00 AM.

Déja Lee and UC Irvine Standouts Sweep Big West Women’s Basketball Honors

UC Irvine Women's Basketball Awards

- Déja Lee named 2023-24 Big West Player of the Year, also a first-team All-Big West selection. Ranked second in scoring and steals in the Big West, with notable performances including a career-high 29 points against Long Beach State.

- Moulayna Johnson Sidi Baba, a graduate transfer, awarded Newcomer of the Year and a second-team all-conference pick. Averaged 11.0 points and 6.9 rebounds in Big West games, with a career-high 21 points against Texas Tech.

- Diaba Konate, a fifth-year senior, recognized as the Best Defensive Player and received an All-Big West honorable mention. Led the team to one of the nation's top scoring defenses, averaging 2.1 steals per game in conference play.

- Shirel Nahum made the Big West All-Freshman Team, ranking among the top-10 freshmen in several categories including scoring and rebounding.

- UC Irvine finished the season 21-8 overall, 16-4 in the Big West, securing a top-two finish for the fifth consecutive year. They will play in the semifinal of the 2024 Hercules Tires Big West Championships on March 15.

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 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

Lock It or Lose It: Irvine's Latest E-Bike Theft Ends in Felony Arrest

A juvenile left his E-bike unlocked outside a store in Woodbridge, and it was stolen by an 18-year-old. An officer took the theft report, reviewed surveillance, and later found and arrested the suspect riding the stolen bike. The theft, being a felony due to the bike's value, led to the suspect's jailing. The bike was returned to the owner. Reminders include the importance of locking bikes, the dedication of Irvine officers, and the low success rate of crimes in Irvine.

#irvinepolice #crimeprevention #communitysafety

See video

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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