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Final Fire Update: Containment Progress & Weather Outlook
Issue # 0334

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .
😁 Laugh Of The Day
🌤️ Irvine Weather
🏫💵 UC Irvine Surpasses $2 Billion Fundraising Goal Ahead of Schedule
🎺🎶 Three Irvine Musicians Head to National Trumpet Competition in Texas
🍜🈺🥢 Marugame Udon Now Open in Irvine – Visit Their New Location at Diamond Jamboree
🧋 Get a Free Boba Plushie with CHA for Tea’s Catering Special
🔥 Final Fire Update: Containment Progress & Weather Outlook
🎠 The Great Park Carousel Returns with Free Rides
😷 Fast, Effective Ear Infection Treatment at FCCMG – Walk In Today
🦅🦆 Sea & Sage Audubon’s Bird & Nature Camps 2025 – Register Starting Feb 1
🛍️🎨 Showcase Your Art at Irvine’s Most Vibrant Festival – Apply Today
🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar
🐕🐾 3 Easy Ways to Help Your Dog Cope with Alone Time
🏐 Nolan Flexen Named Sgt. Pepperoni’s Anteater of the Week for Standout Men’s Volleyball Performance
🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games
🏐 Irvine Valley Men’s Volleyball Sweeps LA Pierce in Season Opener
🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS
🏀 Crean Lutheran Basketball Wins Fifth Straight, Clinches CIF Playoff Spot with 49-48 Victory Over Foothill
🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar
🚓🛒 Police Seek Public’s Help Identifying Suspects in Irvine Target Theft
🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets
🌟🏪🎉Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?
📅📅 Lots of Local Events
📞💡 Useful Contact Information

What do books wear on a wet and rainy day?
Rain quotes.
We hope this joke brings some laughter to your day! 😁



UC Irvine Surpasses $2 Billion Fundraising Goal Ahead of Schedule

UC Irvine’s Brilliant Future campaign has surpassed its $2 billion goal ahead of schedule, marking a historic milestone in Orange County philanthropy.
With over 75,000 alumni engaged and 113,000+ donors, the campaign has significantly boosted student support ($180M+), research ($1.4B+), and campus development (five new buildings).
A major contribution from Alec Glasser established the Center for the Power of Music and Social Change, while a $200M gift from Susan & Henry Samueli launched the nation’s first integrative health sciences college.
Despite surpassing expectations, UC Irvine remains committed to expanding scholarships, completing the UCI Health – Irvine medical campus, and driving global innovation.
With Giving Day on April 22, supporters are encouraged to continue shaping the university’s legacy before the campaign concludes on October 4, 2025.
Three Irvine Musicians Head to National Trumpet Competition in Texas

Three young Irvine musicians—Juhan (Tony) Lee, Yuhwan Shin, and Changbyung (Alex) Lee—will compete in the 2025 National Trumpet Competition in Texas under the guidance of world-renowned trumpeter Professor Matthew Kim. Among just 15 students nationwide in the Junior Solo Division, these talented performers have impressive resumes.
Tony, a 7th grader at OCSA, is the youngest-ever National Trumpet Competition winner and has played at Carnegie Hall and with top orchestras.
Yuhwan, an 8th grader at Sierra Vista, debuted at Carnegie Hall and is principal chair with SCSBOA’s Symphonic Band.
Alex, an 8th grader at Cadence Park, won first place at the Manhattan International Music Concours and has performed at Carnegie Hall.
Best of luck to these outstanding musicians at the National Finals in March!
Marugame Udon Now Open in Irvine – Visit Their New Location at Diamond Jamboree

Marugame Udon has officially opened at Diamond Jamboree! Known for their fresh, hand-crafted udon and delicious tempura, they’re ready to serve up comforting bowls of goodness.
Stop by their new location at 2700 Alton Pkwy Ste 145, Irvine, CA, and experience authentic Japanese flavors.
Explore thier website here.
Get a Free Boba Plushie with CHA for Tea’s Catering Special

Get a FREE Boba Plushie with any catering order of $50+ from CHA For Tea at University Center or Woodbridge Village Center (Jan 25 – Feb 2).

Final Fire Update: Containment Progress & Weather Outlook

Incident Updates (1/28/25 PM) – Final update unless conditions change.
#Border2Fire (Otay Mountain, San Diego Co.): 6,625 acres, 88% contained
#HughesFire (Castaic, LA Co.): 10,425 acres, 98% contained
#PalisadesFire (Pacific Palisades, LA Co.): 23,448 acres, 96% contained
#EatonFire (North Pasadena/Altadena, LA Co.): 14,021 acres, 99% contained
Weather: Warming trend through Friday; rain expected across Northern CA starting Friday into next week.
Latest emergency updates: www.fire.ca.gov

The Great Park Carousel Returns with Free Rides

Great news—the Carousel is back in action at the Great Park!
It reopens today, January 30 at 12:30 p.m.
with free rides available during operating hours: Thursday–Friday (10 AM–10 PM) and Saturday–Sunday (9 AM–10 PM) (closed Monday–Wednesday).
For more info, call 949-724-6247.

Fast, Effective Ear Infection Treatment at FCCMG – Walk In Today

Earaches and infections can disrupt your day, but Family Care Centers Medical Group provides expert care for fast relief at its urgent care clinics in Irvine, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa.
Common in children but affecting adults too, ear pain can result from infections, injuries, wax buildup, or referred pain from dental or throat issues.
Symptoms in children include fever, ear pulling, and irritability.
Seek immediate care for persistent fever, swelling, severe pain, or discharge.
Diagnosis involves an exam with an otoscope, and treatment options include antibiotics, watchful waiting, or pain management.
Untreated infections can lead to hearing loss, mastoiditis, meningitis, or even facial paralysis.
Walk-ins are welcome, with online reservations available to reduce wait time. Learn more or book an appointment here.

Sea & Sage Audubon’s Bird & Nature Camps 2025 – Register Starting Feb 1

Nature Camps 2025 – Hosted by Sea & Sage Audubon, reservations open Feb 1! Discover wildlife and birding through hands-on experiences at Fledgling Camp, Marsh Camp, Coastal Camp, and Advanced Bird Camp.
Secure your spot via Eventbrite:

Showcase Your Art at Irvine’s Most Vibrant Festival – Apply Today

The Studio Arts Festival at Heritage Community Park returns on Saturday, June 7, and vendor applications are now open.
If you create ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, fiber, glass, or other handcrafted art, this is your chance to showcase your work at Irvine’s premier art event.
Apply by March 1 to be part of this vibrant celebration.
Apply online here
Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

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

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

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

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

March 5-8, 7:00 PM: Mary Poppins Musical, Irvine Performing Arts Center.
March 13, 6:30 PM: Festival Concert, Irvine Performing Arts Center.
March 15, All Day: Irvine Jazz Festival, Irvine High School Campus.
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

3 Easy Ways to Help Your Dog Cope with Alone Time

Dogs are social animals, and being left alone can lead to barking, chewing, or house soiling—sometimes even full-blown separation anxiety.
Help them adjust by:
starting with short absences
using dog walkers or daycare
keeping them engaged with toys and play
If signs of anxiety persist, consult a vet.
More pet care tips at cityofirvine.org/irvine-animal-care-center/resources.

Nolan Flexen Named Sgt. Pepperoni’s Anteater of the Week for Standout Men’s Volleyball Performance

UC Irvine senior Nolan Flexen has been named Sgt. Pepperoni’s Anteater of the Week after an outstanding performance in men’s volleyball, leading the team to two wins over No. 5 BYU. He recorded a career-high 26 kills in a 3-2 victory, hitting .444 with nine digs, five block assists, and an ace. In the second match, he tallied 14 kills in a 3-0 win, hitting .394 before a crowd of 2,823. Flexen averaged 5.00 kills/set and was also named Big West Offensive Player of the Week. The Anteaters face Stanford on Jan. 31 at 6 p.m.
UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Women's Basketball
Thu, Jan 30: vs Long Beach State, 6:00 PM
Women's Tennis
Fri, Jan 31: vs Caltech, 2:00 PM
Irvine Valley Men’s Volleyball Sweeps LA Pierce in Season Opener

Irvine Valley men's volleyball opened its 2025 season with a dominant sweep over LA Pierce, winning 25-17, 25-18, 25-13 at home. After a slow start, the Lasers took control, with freshman Travis Kaufman leading the attack (11 kills, .316 hitting, three block assists). Caleb Manea and Joshua Damianopoulos contributed key kills, while setter Bryce Nohava ran the offense with 28 assists. Damianopoulos posted an impressive .625 hitting percentage, and libero Cage Gonzalez added four digs and four assists. Expected to be a top team in the state, IVC faces Antelope Valley next on Friday at 6 p.m.
🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS
Women’s Basketball
Fri, Jan 31: vs Santa Ana, 6:00 PM
Crean Lutheran Basketball Wins Fifth Straight, Clinches CIF Playoff Spot with 49-48 Victory Over Foothill

Crean Lutheran’s boys basketball team secured its fifth consecutive Crestview League victory, edging out Foothill 49-48 at home. Led by Jacob Majok’s dominant performance (20 points, 15 rebounds, 6 blocks), the Saints (13-11, 5-1) are now league leaders and have clinched a CIF playoff berth with two games remaining—Friday at Cypress and Tuesday at Canyon. Hunter Caplan added 10 points, while Caden Jones contributed 9 points and 4 assists. Foothill (14-12, 1-5) was paced by Braeden Davidson (15 points, 9 rebounds) and Danny Kennard (14 points, 10 rebounds). Canyon (4-2) and Cypress (3-3) trail in the standings as the Saints push for the league title.
High School Athletics Calendar
** Updated With January Schedule
Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:
January 2025
Friday, January 31
5:00 PM - Soccer (Boys, VR) vs. Portola at Irvine High School Stadium

Police Seek Public’s Help Identifying Suspects in Irvine Target Theft

Irvine Police seek help identifying two suspects who stole an electric scooter and a hamper of clothing from Target at Irvine Marketplace on Nov. 3, 2024. They exited through a rear door and loaded the stolen items into a U-Haul truck. If you recognize them, 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
When: Wednesday, 9 AM - 1:00 PM
Where: 6670 Alton Pkwy, in front of the Medical Office Building
More Info: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
When: Sunday, 10 AM - 2 PM
Where: Stonegate Elementary: 100 Honors, Irvine, CA 92620
More Info: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

February 1 The Wood Snake Festival at the Market Place 12 - 3 PM
February 1 Pacific Symphony: Lunar New Year 8 PM
February 2 Woodbury Night Market: Lunar New Year Edition 4 - 7 PM

February 6-8 Pines of Rome 8 PM
February 8 Lunar New Year Celebration at Fashion Island: Garden of Good Fortune 11 AM - 1 PM

February 9 Lunar New Year Celebration at the Irvine Spectrum 12 - 3 PM

February 13 Joshua Bell & Larisa Martínez: Voice and the Violin 8 PM
February 14 Valentine’s Day Farm-To-Table Dinner at Tanaka Farms 6 - 9 PM
February 15 - 16 Twyla Tharp 60th Anniversary


Emergency: Dial 911
For immediate police, fire department, or ambulance assistance.
Be ready to provide the emergency location and street address.
Irvine Ranch Water District
Customer Service: 949-453-5300 or email [email protected]
Water Emergency: 949-453-5500
Online Services: IRWD Customer Service
Southern California Edison
Customer Service: 1-800-655-4555
For Hearing Impaired: TTY 1-800-352-8580
Report an Outage: 1-800-611-1911 or Online Outage Reporting
Report Street Light Outage: Street Light Outage Form
Other Inquiries: Contact SCE | Request Support
Southern California Gas
General Customer Service: 1-877-238-0092
Gas Emergencies/Safety Issues: 911 or 1-877-238-0092 (24/7)
Hearing Impaired (TDD/TTY): 1-800-252-0259
Call Before You Dig: 811 DigAlert
Waste Management
Customer Service: 949-345-1546
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