February 21, 2025 Edition
UC Irvine Chancellor Howard Gillman and Councilmember Mike Carroll (L-R)
UC IRVINE 60TH ANNIVERSARY
Founded in 1965, the University of California, Irvine celebrated its 60th anniversary as a distinguished institution in our community. The university grew from a small campus to a world-renowned research university. The celebration included the opening of the Anteater Experience exhibit, which traces six decades of development and showcases UC Irvine's history and accomplishments. Faculty, alumni, and community members gathered to reminisce about the university's evolution into a leading academic and research powerhouse. The event also highlighted the collaborative efforts between UC Irvine and the City of Irvine in fostering innovation and community engagement. To learn more about the Anteater Experience exhibit at the Langson Library, click here.
SPRING 2025 INSIDE IRVINE
The Spring Edition of Inside Irvine is here, our official magazine and activity guide for Irvine residents. This comprehensive guide is filled with updates on City news, activities, and events. Browse a variety of programs, camps, and events for all ages in this season’s activity guide. From sports to arts, there's an activity for everyone of all ages. The digital edition of Inside Irvine is available online, and you will see it in your mailbox soon. Registration is open for Spring activities and summer camps. You can also sign up for these upcoming classes at yourirvine.org. To read the digital edition of Inside Irvine, click here.
PRESIDENTS’ DAY AT PRETEND CITY
Pretend City in Irvine celebrated more than just an ordinary Monday on February 17 – it was Presidents' Day! Those who stopped by the museum were treated to a unique and patriotic experience. There was a special storytime reading of Duck for President by Doreen Cronin. This is a story about a young farm animal who campaigns for President and along the way learns about the responsibilities and challenges of leadership. Thank you to Pretend City for inspiring the next generation about civic engagement. To learn more about Pretend City and their upcoming events, click here.
LUNAR NEW YEAR AT THE SPECTRUM CENTER
It was an incredible celebration of the Lunar New Year at the Spectrum Center in Irvine! The audience enjoyed vibrant performances and traditional displays by the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center (SCCC). The festivities featured a mesmerizing lion dance, traditional music, and engaging activities for all ages. We are fortunate to have a community that shares and enjoys each other's rich culture and traditions. Special thanks to the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center for their dedication and contribution to making this event a success. To learn more about the SCCC, click here.
PEPPER LUNCH GRAND OPENING
Congratulations to Pepper Lunch on their Grand Opening of their second Irvine location at the Spectrum Center! Their kickoff event drew a big line of people who waited since 6:30 a.m., in the rain! The first 100 people received a free Pepper Rice Plate. Pepper Lunch serves unique Japanese style hot plates and can be found right across from Javier’s at 509 Spectrum Center Drive. This location is open every day from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. To learn more about Pepper Lunch and their menu, click here.
Thank you for reading this edition of my Community Update. I hope you enjoyed it.
Mike Carroll