May 30, 2025 Edition
Lieutenant Colonel Clark-Christopher Unger and Councilmember Mike Carroll
COUNCILMEMBER CARROLL THANKS SERVICEMEMBERS AT THE MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Memorial Day Ceremony at Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park. It was a powerful morning of remembrance as the community gathered to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. We heard from U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Clark-Christopher Unger who reminded us of the cost of freedom and the value of unity. We are deeply grateful to all who have served in our military, those who currently serve, and those who gave their lives. For information about military and veteran resources, see more.
#2 PARK SYSTEM IN AMERICA
Irvine has been ranked the second-best park system in the nation and first in California! This is the 10th consecutive year Irvine is in the top 10, according to the Trust for Public Land’s ParkScore Index. The index looked at park access and equity and found that 94 percent of Irvine residents live within a half-mile walk of a park and 94 percent of people of color and 91 percent of people from low-income households live within a 10-minute walk of a park. Irvine also earned perfect scores for amenities including 459 basketball hoops, 220 playgrounds, 25 recreation centers, and 184 public restrooms. In addition to expanding the Great Park, additional improvements include two bocce ball courts and eight pickleball courts being added at Mike Ward Community Park to open in spring 2026! To read about the Irvine park score index, see more.
HONORING THE LEGACY OF JERRI ROSEN 1945-2025
Jerri Rosen, founder of Working Wardrobes, transformed lives by helping thousands of people rediscover their value and reenter the workforce with hope. Thanks to Working Wardrobes, someone you pass on the street today or in your workplace may be employed and standing with confidence because of her vision. This organization that Jerri built has become a lifeline for new beginnings. When I first met Jerri at Working Wardrobes in 2019, her compassion and commitment made a lasting impression. Her impact is felt across our community. Jerri's legacy will live on for generations. To share about your experiences and photos with Jerri Rosen, see more.
INSIDE IRVINE MAGAZINE - SUMMER EDITION
Make this summer one for the books! From live music to poolside movies, and a patriotic parade, Irvine’s summer lineup is packed with fun for all ages. Stroll through newly added chapters on the Walkable Historical Timeline. Dive deeper into local and global history with updated signage and refreshed graphics. We hope to see you at Movies on the Lawn, Summer Concerts, and the all-new Fourth of July celebration at the Great Park. To read the summer edition of Inside Irvine, our official magazine and activity guide, see more.
IRVINE LIBRARY SYSTEM
The Irvine Public Library System is getting a major refresh, with enhanced services, state-of-the-art collections, and fun programs for all ages. The City will host a series of community meetings in June to gather input on the next phase of the Irvine Public Library system. These meetings will offer an opportunity for residents to provide feedback on priorities such as potential locations, facility design, and the types of spaces that best serve the community’s needs. All residents are encouraged to take part in the process. Each meeting will feature a short presentation followed by an interactive discussion, offering residents a chance to share ideas that will help shape these spaces for discovery and engagement for years to come. For information about the Irvine Public Library system, see more.
Thank you for reading this edition of my Community Update. I hope you enjoyed it.
Mike Carroll