- Irvine Insider
- Posts
- Summer Nights at Tanaka Farms: Farm-to-Table Cookout This Saturday
Summer Nights at Tanaka Farms: Farm-to-Table Cookout This Saturday
Issue # 0203

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .
π Laugh Of The Day
π€οΈ Irvine Weather
β οΈππ¦ Operation Safe Driver Week: Addressing Speeding and Seatbelt Use to Save Lives
πβοΈ Virgin Galactic Expands to Irvine with New Delta Class Spacecraft Facility
ποΈβ²οΈπ Irvine's Park System Excels with Top National and State Rankings, High Investment and Accessibility
πΏπ¬ Summer in the City: Enjoy "Trolls Band Together" Under the Stars at Great Park
π₯ποΈ UCI Health and U.S. Navy Expand Critical Trauma Training Partnership
πΎπ Summer Nights at Tanaka Farms: Farm-to-Table Cookout This Saturday
π©Ίπ©΅πΆ Join City of Hope OC's 'Concert of Hope' at SummerFest 2024 on July 27th
πΌπΌ Upcoming High School Music Calendar
ππ₯ Essential Tips to Keep Your Cat Cool and Safe This Summer
π UC Irvine Women's Volleyball Announces 2024 Schedule, Highlights Home Matches and Big West Championship
πππΎβΎ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games
π Irvine Valley Welcomes Alissa Blevins as New Women's Volleyball Head Coach
ππ Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS
πββοΈπ€½ββοΈ Jeffrey Runyan Named Director of Aquatics at Crean Lutheran High School
ππΎ High School Athletics Calendar
ππ Teen's Purse Stolen at Spectrum; Suspects Arrested in Laguna Beach
ππ₯π Local Farmers Markets
ππͺπ Irvineβs Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?
π π Lots of Local Events
ππ‘ Useful Contact Information

Where do math teachers like to go on vacation?
Times Square.
We hope this joke brings some laughter to your day! π



Operation Safe Driver Week: Addressing Speeding and Seatbelt Use to Save Lives

Operation Safe Driver Week aims to improve driving behavior through education and enforcement, focusing on risky driving. Law enforcement will monitor and cite unsafe drivers.
Speeding is a major crash factor, contributing to 26% of traffic fatalities in 2018, killing 9,378 people.
In 2019, 47% of the 22,215 passenger vehicle occupants killed were not wearing seat belts.
Seat belts saved an estimated 14,955 lives in 2017 and could have saved 2,549 more.
Drive safely; someone is counting on your arrival.
Virgin Galactic Expands to Irvine with New Delta Class Spacecraft Facility

Virgin Galactic's space tourism made headlines in June by launching four paying customers on a brief journey to experience Earth's view and near-weightlessness. As part of its expansion, Virgin Galactic is developing next-gen Delta Class spacecraft at a new facility in Irvine, further establishing the city as a major aerospace hub. Other aerospace giants like SpaceX and Terran Orbital also have a strong presence in Irvine. Virgin Galactic plans to resume space flights in 2026 with a price hike to $600,000 per ticket, leveraging Irvine's skilled labor and favorable environment for growth and recruitment.
Irvine's Park System Excels with Top National and State Rankings, High Investment and Accessibility

For the ninth consecutive year, Irvine's park system has ranked among the top 10 in the nation by the Trust for Public Land, securing fourth place nationally and first in California in the ParkScore Index. This ranking, based on park access, acreage, investment, and amenities, highlights Irvineβs commitment to its parks. Mayor Farrah Khan attributes this success to the city's significant investment and dedication to equity and access. Impressively, 93% of residents live within a ten-minute walk to a park, and Irvine spends $643 per capita annually on parks, among the highest in the nation. Additionally, Irvine boasts 480 basketball hoops and 166 public restrooms, both earning perfect scores in the Index.

Summer in the City: Enjoy "Trolls Band Together" Under the Stars at Great Park

Mark your calendars for a free movie night under the stars with "Trolls Band Together" (PG) at Great Park on Thursday, July 18. Bring low-back chairs and blankets for seating, and enjoy a picnic or gourmet treats from food trucks and a snack bar. Create fun memories with family and friends at this Summer in the City event. Learn more at cityofirvine.org/summer.
#YourGreatPark #MoviesOnTheLawn #SummerInTheCity #WeAreIrvine

UCI Health and U.S. Navy Expand Critical Trauma Training Partnership

On July 5, UCI Health and the U.S. Navy formally approved the expansion of their trauma training collaboration. Since 2022, over 50 Navy clinical personnel have gained hands-on trauma and critical care experience at UCI Medical Center, Orange County's only Level 1 trauma center. This program enhances the skills of Navy medical teams before deployment. The expansion, marked by a memorandum of understanding, involves training rotations through trauma, burn, and critical care units. This partnership, which began in 2018 and was paused during the pandemic, benefits both military and civilian medical personnel, ensuring improved care for critically injured patients.

Summer Nights at Tanaka Farms: Farm-to-Table Cookout This Saturday

Join Tanaka Farms for "Summer Nights at the Farm" this Saturday, July 13th, from 6pm to 9pm. Beat the heat with an evening U-Pick Tour and Farm-to-Table Cookout, featuring a wagon tour, produce picking, visits with barnyard animals, live music, and dining under twinkling lights. Enjoy a delicious meal with options like Smokehouse Maple Grilled Chicken, Smoked Tri Tip, Baby Back Ribs, and more. This family-friendly event will have entertainment by musician Sky Lee Vague and his students. Reservations are required. Visit www.TanakaFarms.com to book your spot.
#local #farmtotable #supportlocal #summernights

Join City of Hope OC's 'Concert of Hope' at SummerFest 2024 on July 27th

Pacific Symhponyβs 2024 SummerFest series is excited to partner with City of Hope Orange County. On July 27th, "Rhapsody in Blue at 100: Concert of Hope" will be held, sponsored by City of Hope Orange County. This heartwarming event celebrates the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of cancer survivors, patients, and their loved ones.
#CityOfHopeOC #ConcertOfHope2024 #SummerFest2024
We will resume with the high school music calendar events when the schedule is available for the fall semester.

Essential Tips to Keep Your Cat Cool and Safe This Summer

Beat the heat and keep your cat cool this summer to prevent heatstroke.
- Cats are vulnerable to overheating due to their fur and limited sweating ability.
- Never leave your cat in the car: Not even on cooler days or with windows cracked.
- Ensure constant access to fresh water: Both indoors and outdoors.
- Plan outdoor activities for cooler times: Early morning or evening.
- Keep your home cool: Close blinds and use fans to maintain airflow.
- Protect their paws: Avoid hot surfaces like asphalt and provide cool resting areas.
- Groom for summer: Regular grooming to shed excess hair.
- These steps help keep your cat comfortable and safe in the summer heat.

UC Irvine Women's Volleyball Announces 2024 Schedule, Highlights Home Matches and Big West Championship

The UC Irvine women's volleyball team announced its 2024 schedule, featuring the UCI/adidas Invitational, nine conference home matches, and hosting the Big West Championship. The season kicks off at the Lobo Invitational on August 30-31. The home debut is set for September 6 against Idaho State. The team will compete in various tournaments, including the Buff Invitational and the Big West/WAC Challenge, before starting the Big West schedule on September 24. The Big West Championship will be held at Bren Events Center from November 27-30. Fans can enjoy matches at Crawford Court and Bren Events Center, with various ticket options and group experiences available.
UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

We will resume with UCIβs athletic calendar events when the schedule is available for the fall quarter.
Irvine Valley Welcomes Alissa Blevins as New Women's Volleyball Head Coach

Irvine Valley Athletics has announced Alissa Blevins as the new women's indoor volleyball coach. Blevins, a former standout at IVC and Providence University, succeeds Anna Unke, now the director of volleyball at Crean Lutheran High. Blevins brings extensive experience from coaching in Montana and with the Prime Volleyball Club in Ladera Ranch. During her time as a player at Irvine Valley, she was instrumental in the team's success, notably leading in assists and aces. Blevins is eager to start working with the team, focusing on building a strong, resilient squad for the upcoming season.
πβ½π Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS
We will resume with IVCβs athletic calendar events when the schedule is available for the fall semester.
Jeffrey Runyan Named Director of Aquatics at Crean Lutheran High School

Jeffrey Runyan, a former water polo standout from Concordia University Irvine, has been appointed Director of Aquatics and head coach for boys and girls water polo at Crean Lutheran High School. Athletic Director Eric Olson expressed confidence in Runyan's extensive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to both athletic and academic excellence. Runyan, who has a rich background as a player and coach, emphasized his dedication to fostering Christ-centered values and excellence in the program. His coaching career includes roles at Cal Poly SLO, Merced, and Costa Mesa Aquatics Club, where he led teams to significant successes. Runyan also had an impressive college playing career, earning numerous accolades and setting records.
High School Athletics Calendar
We will resume with the high school athletic calendar events when the schedule is available for the fall semester.

Teen's Purse Stolen at Spectrum; Suspects Arrested in Laguna Beach
![]() | ![]() |
On July 4, a 15-year-old had her purse stolen at the Spectrum. Thanks to dedicated Spectrum Officers, security assistance, video footage, and Airpods, the suspects were tracked to Laguna Beach. Amanda Steere, 40, and Gabriel Perez, 44, were arrested for conspiracy and purse snatching. Steere also had outstanding warrants. Their Fourth of July ended at Orange County Jail. Always stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure in public.
#dontcommitcriminirvine #irvinepolice

Irvineβs 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 youβre a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! βIrvine Insiderβ is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our city. Letβs 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 letβs 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
When: Wednesday, 9 AM - 1:00 PM
Where: 6670 Alton Pkwy, in front of the Medical Office Building
More Info: 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
When: Sunday, 10 AM - 2 PM
Where: 8000 Great Park Blvd., Irvine, CA 92618
More Info: 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

July 1-14 Fourth of July Field of Valor

July 16, 23, 30 Tuesday Night Dance, Ballet with Studio D 6:30 PM

July 12 Anime Night: Piano Candlelit Concert 8 PM - 9 PM
July 12 Always Adele at Great Park 5 PM -10 -PM
July 11 Rumours: Fleetwood Mac Tribute 5 PM - 10 PM
July 13 Silent Disco: All Abilities 7 PM
July 16 Teen Art Workshop 2 PM - 3 PM
July 27 Rhapsody in Blue at 100: Concert of Hope 8 PM

Emergency: Dial 911
For immediate police, fire department, or ambulance assistance.
Be ready to provide the emergency location and street address.
Irvine Ranch Water District
Customer Service: 949-453-5300 or email [email protected]
Water Emergency: 949-453-5500
Online Services: IRWD Customer Service
Southern California Edison
Customer Service: 1-800-655-4555
For Hearing Impaired: TTY 1-800-352-8580
Report an Outage: 1-800-611-1911 or Online Outage Reporting
Report Street Light Outage: Street Light Outage Form
Other Inquiries: Contact SCE | Request Support
Southern California Gas
General Customer Service: 1-877-238-0092
Gas Emergencies/Safety Issues: 911 or 1-877-238-0092 (24/7)
Hearing Impaired (TDD/TTY): 1-800-252-0259
Call Before You Dig: 811 DigAlert
Waste Management
Customer Service: 949-345-1546
How did we do on this issue? |
We could use your help
Weβve 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! Itβs simple!