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Gary Howard to Be Honored at Casa Youth Shelter’s 2025 Bootstrap Ball

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By Greer Wylder
April 01, 2025

Casa Youth Shelter will recognize longtime board president and philanthropist Gary Howard as the 2025 Legacy Honoree at its annual Bootstrap Ball on Saturday, May 10 at Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach. Inspired by the resilience of the youth they serve, the gala celebrates the people who make a lasting impact—and few have done more than Gary.For more than 20 years, Gary has championed Casa Youth Shelter’s mission with unmatched generosity and leadership. Whether stocking the pantry with steaks instead of just staples, offering his financial expertise, or leading the board with heart and integrity, Gary has always…

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Free Outdoor Movies and More This Spring at Irvine Spectrum Center

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By Greer Wylder
March 31, 2025

As the weather warms up, Irvine Spectrum Center is the place to be for weekend fun—offering endless ways to enjoy spring days and make lasting memories. Orange County’s open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment destination comes alive this season with free outdoor events perfect for family outings, date nights, and catching up with friends.From movie nights under the stars to live music in the open air, Irvine Spectrum Center has something for everyone this spring.Here’s a look at what’s coming up:Movies Under the Stars – FreeLocation: Giant Wheel LawnDate: Every Saturday through May 17Time: 7 p.m.Bring a blanket, lawn chair, and…

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Puesto Welcomes Spring With Seasonal Dishes From Creative Chef Raul Casillas

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By Greer Wylder
March 31, 2025

Puesto is welcoming spring with new seasonal menu additions from Creative Chef Raul Casillas, available now at all three Orange County locations in Anaheim and Irvine. A beloved family-owned brand with eight restaurants and three stadium locations across California, Puesto’s latest chapter includes a refreshed culinary direction led by Chef Casillas, who brings decades of experience and a deep love for regional Mexican cuisine and culture.Casillas, who joined Puesto in January 2025, has cooked in Michelin-starred kitchens including L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Las Vegas and Valle in Oceanside, led by James Beard nominee Roberto Alcocer. His spring creations spotlight…

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Saijo, a New Japanese Dining Experience, Opens in Culver City

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By Greer Wylder
March 30, 2025

From the team behind JINYA Ramen Bar and Robata, JINYA Holdings is introducing its latest concept — Saijo, a 24-seat counter-style restaurant specializing in hand rolls (temaki) and grilled skewers (kushiyaki) — opening April 2 in Culver City. Founder and CEO Tomo Takahashi was inspired by his time in Saijo City, Japan — home to a historic JINYA (a small castle) and Saijo High School, where he studied. The new concept brings together two signature elements of Japanese cuisine: freshly prepared temaki and flavorful kushiyaki.Saijo’s hand rolls feature high-quality sushi ingredients, while its kushiyaki menu highlights expertly grilled meats and seafood.…

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South County Outreach’s Empty Bowls Gala 2025: Setting the Table for Change

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By Greer Wylder
March 27, 2025

South County Outreach invites the community to the 2025 Empty Bowls Gala on Thursday, April 10, at 5 p.m. at its Irvine headquarters. This year’s theme, Setting the Table for Change, reflects the heart of SCO’s mission to end hunger and homelessness in Orange County.The annual event takes on new meaning this year as SCO opens its doors and welcomes guests in like family. Held onsite at South County Outreach, the immersive experience brings attendees face-to-face with the impact of food and housing insecurity—and the solutions that lead to lasting change.Guests will experience interactive exhibits and compelling storytelling that highlight…

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