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  • Celebrate Lunar New Year in OC: Events from Jan. 31 to Feb. 9

Celebrate Lunar New Year in OC: Events from Jan. 31 to Feb. 9

Issue # 0331

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🚓💥 Fatal Solo Vehicle Crash: Aliso Viejo Woman Fatally Injured in Early Morning Irvine Crash

📚✈️ Explore History and Culture: Day Trip to the Ronald Reagan Library on Jan. 30

🐍🏮 Celebrate Lunar New Year in OC: Events from Jan. 31 to Feb. 9

🚧🚜 Curb Ramp Upgrades to Temporarily Impact Streets and Trails in Irvine

🆘🧳 Emergency Go-Bag Checklist: Be Ready Anytime

📖🧒🏻 Free Storytime for Preschoolers at Irvine University Park Library

🩸 January is National Blood Donor Month: Critical Need for Blood Donations at UCI Health

🪻🌿 Purple Owl Clover: A Vibrant Wildflower Supporting California’s Ecosystem

🖼️ Build Beautiful Keepsake Shadow Boxes at Heritage Park Library's Adult Craft Event

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐹 Adopt a Dwarf Hamster: Small Pets with Big Personalities Waiting for a Home

🎾 UC Irvine Men's Tennis Triumphs Over San Diego State, 4-3

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀 Irvine Valley Men’s Basketball Secures 67-47 Win Over No. 19 Cypress

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏀 Irvine Boys Basketball Secures 66-37 Victory Over Sage Hill, Clinches League’s Top Seed

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚓🎯 Six Suspects Steal $1,550 in Merchandise from Irvine Target – Police Seek Help

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

🌟🏪🎉Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

How much does a rainbow weigh?

Not much, they’re actually pretty light.

We hope this joke brings some laughter to your day! 😁

Fatal Solo Vehicle Crash: Aliso Viejo Woman Fatally Injured in Early Morning Irvine Crash

On January 25, a solo vehicle crash occurred at 12:40 a.m. near Alton Parkway and Valley Oak in Irvine. A Grey BZ4X Toyota SUV, driven by 29-year-old Lucero Delarosa of Aliso Viejo, lost control and struck a curb and cement pillar. She sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. IPD’s Major Accident Investigation Team is investigating the incident. Witnesses can contact Detective David Juarez at 949-724-7047.

Explore History and Culture: Day Trip to the Ronald Reagan Library on Jan. 30

Join an Exploring SoCal day trip to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum on Thursday, January 30, from 9 a.m.–6:30 p.m.

Highlights include:

  • walking through Air Force One

  • exploring 18 galleries

  • enjoying stunning Conejo Valley views

  • and the special Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibition

Admission, roundtrip transportation, and gratuities are included, with time for lunch at the café. Spaces are limited—register at cityofirvine.org/yourirvine. For more activities for adults 50+ visit here.

Celebrate Lunar New Year in OC: Events from Jan. 31 to Feb. 9

Celebrate Lunar New Year in OC!
From cultural performances to family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone. Here's a quick roundup of events to enjoy:

Curb Ramp Upgrades to Temporarily Impact Streets and Trails in Irvine

Curb ramp improvements to enhance accessibility will impact streets and bike trails.

  • January 27–31:

    • Trail access closed at Amargosa and Venta Spur Trail.

    • Detours in place at Bryan and El Camino Real.

  • February 3–7:

    • Trail access closed at Creek Road and San Diego Creek Trail.

Emergency Go-Bag Checklist: Be Ready Anytime

Having an emergency go-bag is essential for unexpected situations. Include these critical supplies, update regularly, and ensure functionality to stay prepared and respond effectively.

Go-Bag Essentials:

  • Water (one gallon per person per day)

  • Non-perishable food

  • Flashlight and extra batteries

  • First aid kit

  • Medications and prescriptions

  • Multi-tool or knife

  • Important documents (IDs, insurance, cash)

  • Clothing and sturdy shoes

  • Blanket or sleeping bag

  • Hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, etc.)

  • Phone charger and backup power bank

For more information, visit fire.ca.gov/prepare.

Free Storytime for Preschoolers at Irvine University Park Library

Preschool Storytime offers stories, songs, and fun to help children ages 2–4 develop early literacy skills. It’s free, no registration required, and takes place on Tuesday, January 28, from 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM at Irvine University Park Library. Perfect for young kids and their caregivers.

January is National Blood Donor Month: Critical Need for Blood Donations at UCI Health

January is National Blood Donor Month, highlighting the critical need for blood and platelet donations. Experts at UCI Health emphasize the lifesaving impact of donating. Learn more and register to donate at ucihealth.org/blooddrive/find-a-drive.

Purple Owl Clover: A Vibrant Wildflower Supporting California’s Ecosystem

Purple owl clover (Castilleja exserta) is a vibrant annual herb native to California and parts of the Southwestern U.S., recognized for its striking purple flowers that bloom from March to May on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. This partial root parasite, capable of photosynthesis but primarily reliant on nutrients from host plants like native grasses, thrives in habitats such as coastal sage scrub and valley grasslands. Its feathery flower clusters attract bees and butterflies, supporting 12 butterfly and moth species, including the threatened Bay Checkerspot butterfly. This essential wildflower embodies both beauty and ecological importance.

Build Beautiful Keepsake Shadow Boxes at Heritage Park Library's Adult Craft Event

Join the Crafty Adult - Shadow Boxes event on Saturday, February 1, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Irvine Heritage Park Library. Create shadow boxes for memories and keepsakes while connecting with others. All supplies provided.

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  1. February 12 - 15: Musical, NHS Theater

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://timbmusic.org/events/

Upcoming University High School's Choirs Calendar

  1. February 27 - March 1,6,7,8 7:00 PM: Guys and Dolls Musical, Big Theater

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.uhschoirs.org/2024-25-season.html

Upcoming Woodbridge High School's Music Calendar

  1. February 27 - March 1, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM: Shrek the Musical, Performing Arts Center

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.whs-music.org/

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. February 8: SCVA Vocal Jazz Festival, Saugus HS (Santa Clarita).

  2. February 27 - March 1: Shrek the Musical, WHS Performing Arts Center.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://woodbridgechoirs.weebly.com/calendar.html

Upcoming Irvine High School's Music Calendar

  1. March 5-8, 7:00 PM: Mary Poppins Musical, Irvine Performing Arts Center.

  2. March 13, 6:30 PM: Festival Concert, Irvine Performing Arts Center.

  3. March 15, All Day: Irvine Jazz Festival, Irvine High School Campus.

  4. March 18, 7:00 PM: District Jazz Festival, Woodbridge HS Performing Arts Center.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.vimb.info/calendar

Adopt a Dwarf Hamster: Small Pets with Big Personalities Waiting for a Home

Dwarf Hamsters Awaiting Adoption: These tiny, charming pets are full of curiosity and playful energy, ready to bring joy to your home. Visit the Irvine Animal Care Center from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., to meet them and find your perfect companion. Learn more about adoption and view other animals at cityofirvine.org/animals.

UC Irvine Men's Tennis Triumphs Over San Diego State, 4-3

The UC Irvine men's tennis team secured a 4-3 road victory against San Diego State at the Aztec Tennis Center, improving to 2-2 this season. Key wins came from Rithvik Krishna, Noah Zamora, Andy Nguyen, and Max Fardanesh, who clinched the match in a decisive third set. The Anteaters will next host Pacific on Friday, Feb. 7, at 1 PM at Anteater Tennis Stadium.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Women's Basketball

  1. Thu, Jan 30: vs Long Beach State, 6:00 PM

Women's Tennis

  1. Fri, Jan 31: vs Caltech, 2:00 PM

Irvine Valley Men’s Basketball Secures 67-47 Win Over No. 19 Cypress

The Irvine Valley men’s basketball team snapped a two-game losing streak with a dominant 67-47 win over No. 19 Cypress at home, improving to 12-10 overall and 4-5 in conference play. Freshman Allen Moser led with 16 points (14 in the first half), while Matt Mowers added a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Sophomore Josiah Reed contributed 10 points and strong defensive play. The Lasers shot 50% from the field and held Cypress to 24.6% shooting, including a pivotal 14-0 second-half run that sealed the victory. IVC faces Santa Ana at home Wednesday at 6 p.m.

🏐🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Men’s Basketball

  1. Wed, Jan 29: vs Santa Ana, 6:00 PM

Men’s Volleyball

  1. Wed, Jan 29: vs LA Pierce, 6:00 PM

Women’s Basketball

  1. Fri, Jan 31: vs Santa Ana, 6:00 PM

Irvine Boys Basketball Secures 66-37 Victory Over Sage Hill, Clinches League’s Top Seed

Irvine High School's boys basketball team secured a dominant 66-37 victory over Sage Hill, clinching first place in the Pacific Coast League and extending their winning streak to 15 games. Led by standout performances from Cooper Stearns (26 points, 15 rebounds), his brother Holden Stearns (15 points), and Jalem Yim (12 points), Irvine built an early 30-10 lead, sinking five first-half 3-pointers. The Vaqueros maintained their momentum with a disciplined, aggressive game plan praised by Coach Harry Meussner. The team now prepares for their final regular season game against St. Margaret’s and enters the league tournament as the top seed.

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With January Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

January 2025

Monday, January 27

  • 5:00 PM - Soccer (Boys, VR) vs. St. Margaret's Episcopal at Irvine High School Stadium

Tuesday, January 28

  • 7:00 PM - Basketball (Boys, VR) vs. St. Margaret's Episcopal at Irvine High School Game Gym

Wednesday, January 29

  • 5:30 PM - Soccer (Girls, VR) vs. Sage Hill at Irvine High School Stadium

Friday, January 31

  • 5:00 PM - Soccer (Boys, VR) vs. Portola at Irvine High School Stadium

Six Suspects Steal $1,550 in Merchandise from Irvine Target – Police Seek Help

Six suspects stole approximately $1,550 in merchandise from the Target on Barranca. If you recognize them or have any information, please contact [email protected].

Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?

We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you’re a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! “Irvine Insider” is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our city. Let’s collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special.

Click the link below and fill out the Local Business Spotlight Application Form to be featured and let’s celebrate the spirit of Irvine together!

Irvine Insider is sent to a local audience of Irvine residence Monday through Friday with 50% - 60% open rate. Our newsletter is a great way to reach Irvine residents.

  • Kaiser Permanente Irvine Farmers Market

  • Saturday Farmers Market at Mariners Church Irvine

    • When: Saturday, 8 AM - 12 PM

    • Where: 5428 Bonita Canyon Dr, Irvine, CA 92603

  • Great Park Certified Farmers Market

  • Manassero Farmers

    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 4:30 PM

    • Where: 33 Irvine Valley, Irvine, CA 92604

  • Tanaka Farms

    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM

    • Where: 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612

    • More Info:Tanaka Farms

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