March for Babies Returns to Irvine May 2

The March of Dimes will host its signature event, March for Babies, on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Wild Rivers Waterpark, bringing together nearly 500 participants in support of maternal and infant health.

As the nation’s oldest charitable walk, March for Babies brings together families, health care leaders, corporate partners and local communities through more than 70 events nationwide. The Orange County walk remains one of the region’s largest community-driven fundraisers, supporting research, education, advocacy and programs that help moms and babies get the best possible start.

The morning will feature leading health care and corporate partners, including MemorialCare, Rady Children's Hospital, Kaiser Permanente, UCI Health and Wild Rivers Waterpark. Attendees can expect a high-energy, family-friendly event with hospital teams, ambassador families and community activations throughout the venue.

Despite advances in medicine, the United States continues to face serious challenges in maternal and infant health, with significant disparities in outcomes for families of color. Funds raised through March for Babies support critical efforts to improve outcomes for moms and babies nationwide.

Event leadership includes Dr. Minal Meht, OB-GYN, serving as event chair. This year’s ambassador family, the Phakousonh family, will share their story. Their son, Remy, was born with Pierre Robin Sequence, a rare condition that affects a baby’s airway, jaw and ability to feed safely. After multiple surgeries and three months in the hospital, Remy is now reaching milestones once thought out of reach. His family credits the care of their NICU team and the support of March of Dimes in helping him thrive.

The event opens at 7:30 a.m., with the walk beginning at 9 a.m. at Wild Rivers Waterpark, 10000 Great Park Blvd., Irvine.

Classic Packards Take Center Stage in Newport Beach

A free, open-to-the-public All-Packard Car Show takes place Saturday, May 2, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach.

On view will be 30 to 40 concours-quality automobiles dating from the 1920s through the early 1950s. Among them is the original Irvine Ranch Packard, purchased in 1924 by James Harvey Irvine and driven until 1953 by his daughter Joan Irvine Smith. 

The car remains unrestored and closely reflects its condition when it was found in a storage unit in the 1980s. It started upon discovery and is set to participate in a local driving tour on Friday, May 1, marking the 100th anniversary of U.S. Route 66 centennial.

The show is presented by Packards International Motor Car Club in celebration of its 63rd anniversary.

Built in Detroit from 1899 to 1956 by the Packard Motor Car Company, Packard was among the most prestigious American automobiles of its time. Favored by presidents, royalty, and industry leaders, it earned a reputation for elegance, durability, and a smooth ride. Its well-known tagline said it best: Ask the man who owns one.

Today, Packards continue to draw collectors, museums, and enthusiasts from around the world. The Santa Ana-based club is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the marque, offering members access to events, resources, publications, and regional gatherings that keep the legacy of Packard alive.

Hyatt Regency Newport Beach is at 1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach

J Ruby: A Colorful Creative Find in South Laguna

J Ruby opened in February, marking the first retail space for designer Jessica Ruby, who has been creating and refining her work for years. The Laguna Beach studio, set in the historic St. Clair building, serves as both a boutique and the home of the South Laguna Art Project, where workshops and classes are offered regularly.

Inside, the space is filled with upcycled fashion, custom embroidery, and original artwork by Jessica. The racks feature 100 percent yarn-dyed cotton shirting made in California, including her signature Boyfriend Shirt with classic or sport cuffs. A Patch Bar invites customers to personalize pieces with nautical letters, anchors, sharks, and more, all sewn on in-house.

Jessica works alongside her daughter Paige, who hand-embroiders many of the designs and helps run the studio. Together, they have created a welcoming, community-driven space that blends fashion, art, and hands-on creativity. Even Poppi, the studio pup, makes the occasional appearance.

The shop also carries scarf hats, bandana shirts, accessories, and small-batch items made from repurposed materials.

J Ruby is open Friday through Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with parking available behind the building.

J Ruby is located at 31711 Coast Highway in Laguna Beach.