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Good morning, Orange County. You’re reading Thrive OC, the newsletter that keeps you in the loop so you never have to ask, “Is that dolphin okay?” or “Where’s the best pasta in Newport Beach?” Here’s what you need to know this week:

• Toxic algae hits OC beaches

• Rustic Italian eats in Crystal Cove

• Western Movie Night returns to SJC

• Irvine green-lights airport housing

• The best upcoming events in OC

Let’s dive in.

— Dave Berry

🍽️ Restaurant of the Week: Modo Mio Rustic Italian Kitchen

Perched at Crystal Cove Promenade, Modo Mio offers authentic Northern Italian comfort with panoramic ocean views. You’ll feel like part of the famiglia from the moment you step inside.

Must-try dishes: Cioppino (a hearty seafood stew) or the Tagliatelle Bolognese (house-made pasta with a rich, signature meat sauce).

📍 7946 East Coast Hwy, Newport Coast, CA

🏄 Local News You Should Know

🚨 Toxic Algae Threatens Marine Life at OC Beaches

A dangerous algae bloom producing Domoic Acid is impacting beaches from Malibu down to San Clemente, particularly hitting Laguna Beach hard. The toxin is severely affecting marine mammals, causing neurological issues and unusual behavior.

If you spot a sick or injured marine animal:

• Do not approach—stay at least 50 yards away.

• Immediately call Laguna Beach Marine Safety at (949) 497-0310.

🏡 Irvine Moves Ahead with Major Housing Plan Despite Airport Concerns

Irvine's City Council has approved plans to add around 15,000 housing units near John Wayne Airport, overriding concerns from the OC Airport Land Use Commission about noise and safety. Irvine faced state penalties if housing mandates weren’t met.

Councilman Larry Agran was the lone voice of opposition, citing environmental and infrastructure concerns, while proponents argue the city needs more affordable housing urgently. Expect to see major developments near the Irvine Business Complex soon.

🔥 Check Your Wildfire Risk

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) recently released updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps for Orange County. Know your zone, understand the risk, and stay prepared.

🐎💃🌞 The 2025 Swallows Day Parade Brought the Vibes

San Juan Capistrano was alive with energy last weekend for the annual Swallows Day Parade and Fiesta de las Golondrinas! From horses and live music to rich culture and pure OC charm, the fiesta had it all.

Did you make it out there? If not, don’t worry—this is one to mark on your calendar for next year. You won’t want to miss it again!

📅 Upcoming Events 🎉

🐾 Brea Pet Expo (April 5)

Shop pet products, learn pet care tips, and maybe even find a furry friend at Brea's annual Pet Expo. Family-friendly, affordable fun. Admission: $3, kids 12 & under free.

When: Saturday, April 5, 9 AM-3 PM
Where: Brea Community Center (695 Madison Way, Brea, CA 92821)
Info: Call (714) 990-7771

🎨 Sawdust Festival’s Spring Fling – Laguna Beach (April 4-6)

Kick off spring at Laguna’s iconic Sawdust Festival, featuring immersive art experiences, over 130 artists, live music, free classes, and local food favorites. A true Laguna tradition!

When: April 4-6 | 11 AM-5 PM daily
Where: 935 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach

🎌 OC Japan Fair (April 4-6)

Experience Japan without leaving OC at the biggest Japanese festival in SoCal, featuring food, performances, music, and unique Japanese products. Early bird tickets are available now.

Hours:

• 4/4 (Fri): 4:00pm-10:00pm

• 4/5 (Sat): 12:00pm-10:00pm

• 4/6 (Sun): 11:00am-7:00pm

📍OC Fair & Event Center: 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

🤠 Western Movie Night – San Juan Capistrano (April 11)

Pull out your best cowboy boots and hats for Western Movie Night at The Swanner House. Think vintage movies, live western music from Lionheart, BBQ by Heritage Barbecue, craft drinks, tattoos, and an epic western-themed photo booth.

When: Friday, April 11 | Doors open 6 PM
Where: 29943 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano
Tickets: westernmovienight.com

🍺 Boots & Brews Music Festival – Irvine (April 11)

Country music fans, grab your dancing boots! The Boots & Brews Music Fest is back with great music, cold beer, and plenty of line-dancing opportunities.

When: April 11, 5 PM-10 PM
Location: Great Park Live (8000 Great Park Blvd, Irvine, CA 92618)

🌟 OC Trivia: Did You Know?

Did you know? Crystal Cove once served as the setting for several classic Hollywood films, including the iconic 1988 movie Beaches, starring Bette Midler. Today, it remains a favorite spot for locals seeking stunning views and cinematic nostalgia.

Think you know OC? Reply with your best trivia, and we might feature it next!

🎉 VIP Shoutouts!

A big welcome to our newest Thrive OC VIPs—Jason P. and Kathy W.! Thanks for being part of the community—we’ve got some exclusive perks coming your way! 🚀✨

🎶 Live Music This Weekend

Looking for live tunes? Here’s what’s happening:

Friday, April 4:

• Alza Italian Kitchen (Rancho Santa Margarita) – Mary Desmond, 6:00 PM

• Brio Tuscany Grille (Dana Point) – 3 Sister Band live, 7:00 PM

• Drift Distillery & Smokehouse (San Clemente) – High Ball Steppers, 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM

• The Cliff Restaurant (Laguna Beach) – Tightrope, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

• The Coach House (San Juan Capistrano) – The Smithereens with John Cowsill, 9:00 PM

• The Rib Joint (Dana Point) – Sky Island Ramblers, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

• Campus JAX (Newport Beach) – B.I.G. (Brothers Igniting a Groove), 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM

• Constellation Room (Santa Ana) – Gimme Gimme Disco (18+), 7:00 PM

• La Santa (Santa Ana) – Best of the 1990's, 9:00 PM

• Keno's Restaurant (Anaheim Hills) – Douglas Roegiers, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

• Spaghettini (Seal Beach) – The Garth Guy: A Tribute to Garth Brooks, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

• Time Nightclub (Costa Mesa) – Pickle, 9:30 PM

🌦️ 7-Day Weather Forecast

🌅 Sunrise & Sunset in OC

🙌 Rep OC & Support Local

Thrive OC is more than just your source for local happenings—we're also curating the best in beauty, wellness, and unique OC-inspired essentials. From premium beauty products to locally inspired merch, we’ve got everything you need to look great, feel amazing, and celebrate OC in style. Plus, every purchase supports this newsletter, so you can shop and support local at the same time. FREE shipping on all orders—always! 🎉

💛 Want to support but don’t see anything you like? You can still help keep Thrive OC going! Donate here.

Or, take your OC experience to the next level—join Thrive OC VIP for exclusive discounts, VIP event access, and insider perks while supporting local businesses!

Your support means the world—thank you for being part of the Thrive OC community! 🙌

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