November is Native American Heritage Month. The month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of native tribes in Orange County and indigenous people worldwide. Native American Heritage Month is also a good time to learn about tribes and raise awareness about the unique challenges Native Americans have faced, both historically and in the present, as well as the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.

Santa is going digital this holiday season, and would love to hear from his friends! Use our magic online mailbox to send your letter, and get a reply as fast as reindeers fly.

Gus, the City's official elf, will make sure all letters get to Santa and receive email responses. Allow one week for responses; classrooms, allow two weeks. In-person drop-off and pick-up of hand-written letters will not be available.

Visit cityofirvine.org/letterstosanta to send your letter today.

Irvine Animal Care Center is notifying the public of confirmed cases of distemper within its shelter. Veterinary staff diagnosed multiple puppies, which are being quarantined at the center or cared for at their adoptive homes.

The Irvine City Council has chosen Oliver Chi as its new City Manager, approving him at its November 9 meeting. His contract begins Friday, December 24.