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How to Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke and Reduce Health Risks
Issue # 0330

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .
😁 Laugh Of The Day
🌤️ Irvine Weather
🥁🎶 Nine Beats Drummer Academy Opens at Orchard Hills Shopping Center
⚾️💵 UC Irvine Athletics Receives Historic $5 Million Gift to Boost Baseball Program
🍨🍧 Celebrate National Frozen Yogurt Day with a Sweet BOGO Deal at Yogurtland
🍱🍡 Enjoy 40% Off Lunch & 20% Off Dinner at 7 Japanese BBQ – Limited Offer
🔥 Massive Aerial Response: 60+ Aircraft Battle Wind-Driven Hughes Fire in Los Angeles County
🥼🔬IUSD Students Shine at 44th Annual Science Fair with 165 Projects Advancing to County Level
😷💨 How to Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke and Reduce Health Risks
🌳🌿 Explore Bommer Canyon: Self-Guided Access to Irvine’s Hidden Trails on February 7
🩰 Ballet Classes for All Abilities—Join Studio D Now
🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar
🐕 Pet Licensing: A Simple Way to Keep Your Furry Friend Safe
🏀 UC Irvine Women's Basketball Edges UC Riverside 56-53, Extends Win Streak to Five
🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games
🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS
🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar
🚓🚨 Two Suspects Arrested for $2,000 Home Depot Theft in Irvine
🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets
🌟🏪🎉Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?
📅📅 Lots of Local Events
📞💡 Useful Contact Information

What did the Moon say to Saturn?
“Give me a ring sometime!”
We hope this joke brings some laughter to your day! 😁



Nine Beats Drummer Academy Opens at Orchard Hills Shopping Center

Nine Beats Drummer Academy has opened at Orchard Hills Shopping Center, offering group and private lessons in drums, guitar (electric/acoustic), bass, and music production for students ages 5+. The academy features group classrooms, a professional recording studio, digital course materials, and an app for practice and progress tracking. Founded in 2003 by renowned educator Li Hongyu, Nine Beats has trained over 5 million students globally and provides opportunities for performances, camps, and competitions.
UC Irvine Athletics Receives Historic $5 Million Gift to Boost Baseball Program

UC Irvine Athletics received a transformative $5 million gift from Steve and Linda Borowski to establish the Borowski Family Player Development Center for its baseball program, marking the largest donation in its history. The center will feature advanced training facilities, including a strength and conditioning area, sports medicine hub, batting cages, pitching lab, and more, boosting the program's NCAA Division I success. Steve Borowski, a former player and long-time supporter, emphasized the program's community impact. This gift also advances UC Irvine’s Brilliant Future campaign, bringing the athletics fundraising goal within $1.3 million of completion.
Celebrate National Frozen Yogurt Day with a Sweet BOGO Deal at Yogurtland

Celebrate National Frozen Yogurt Day at Yogurtland on 2/6/ with a Buy One, Get One Free offer on froyo or ice cream Real Rewards members can also earn double points all day.
Enjoy 40% Off Lunch & 20% Off Dinner at 7 Japanese BBQ – Limited Offer

7 Japanese BBQ, Sushi & Yakitori Bar is offering an AYCE special with 40% off lunch (11:30 AM–2:30 PM) and 20% off dinner (5 PM–10 PM) when you reserve on Yelp. Limited to the first 150 reservations; promotion ends 02/02/25.
Reserve now here

Massive Aerial Response: 60+ Aircraft Battle Wind-Driven Hughes Fire in Los Angeles County

Since January 7, over 60 aircraft have delivered 3.1M+ gallons of water and 600K gallons of retardant to combat six major wildfires in Los Angeles County, including the wind-driven Hughes Fire. CAL FIRE, with local, tribal, and federal partners, is using all resources, including night-qualified helicopters for 24/7 fire suppression, to protect lives, property, and natural resources.

IUSD Students Shine at 44th Annual Science Fair with 165 Projects Advancing to County Level

IUSD students excelled at the 44th Annual Science Fair with over 379 projects submitted by grades 6-12 and 165 advancing to the Orange County Science and Engineering Fair—the most of any county district!
The Elementary and Middle School Awards Ceremony on Jan 15 at Woodbridge High celebrated 175 students, while the High School Awards Ceremony on Jan 22 at University Lab Partners honored nearly 50 students with industry insights.

How to Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke and Reduce Health Risks

Wildfires in California are increasing in intensity and frequency, driven by powerful Santa Ana winds. These fires pose serious threats to life and property, while the resulting smoke significantly impacts respiratory and cardiovascular health, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with preexisting conditions. Taking proactive steps can help protect you and your loved ones from these dangers.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke:
Enhance Indoor Air Quality:
Use high-quality air purifiers with HEPA filters.
Seal windows, doors, and vents tightly; add weather stripping if needed.
Avoid vacuuming or burning candles to prevent stirring up particles.
Personal Protective Measures:
Wear N95 or P100 respirators to filter harmful particulate matter.
Limit outdoor activities during heavy smoke exposure.
Emergency Preparedness:
Develop a clear evacuation plan and know the routes.
Keep a go-bag ready with essentials, including documents and medical supplies.
Know When to Seek Medical Attention:
Persistent cough, chest pain, or breathing difficulty—especially for high-risk individuals—warrants immediate medical care.
Awareness, preparation, and proactive steps can help reduce the risks associated with wildfire smoke and safeguard your health.

Explore Bommer Canyon: Self-Guided Access to Irvine’s Hidden Trails on February 7

Enjoy self-guided access to Irvine’s southern Open Space Preserve, including rarely opened trails in Shady Canyon and Bommer Canyon, on Friday, February 7, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Registration is required, and parking is available at the Bommer Canyon Cattle Camp. For more details or to register, contact [email protected].

Ballet Classes for All Abilities—Join Studio D Now

Studio D, part of Segerstrom Center for the Arts, offers ballet classes for ages 10+ that teach fundamentals and iconic choreography from classical story ballets.
Sessions feature a live pianist, traditional barre and center exercises, and welcome all skill levels.
Classes are held at Segerstrom Hall in Costa Mesa, with a relaxed dress code—no formal dancewear required.
Scholarships are available based on financial need, and payment plans can be arranged.
Spots are limited, so enroll here today!
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

January 23 - 24, 7:00 PM: Legends Concert, 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

Pet Licensing: A Simple Way to Keep Your Furry Friend Safe

Pet licensing is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and well-being of animals. It helps lost pets reunite with their owners quickly and supports vital animal care services.
In California, dogs aged 4 months and older are legally required to wear a license tag, while cat licensing is optional but encouraged.
Licensing is affordable, straightforward, and demonstrates responsible pet ownership.
More information is available at cityofirvine.org/irvine-animal-care-center/licensing.

UC Irvine Women's Basketball Edges UC Riverside 56-53, Extends Win Streak to Five

UC Irvine women's basketball defeated UC Riverside 56-53 at the Bren Events Center, extending their win streak to five games and maintaining a tie for first in the Big West standings. The Anteaters (13-5, 7-1 Big West) led by as many as 14 but held off a late rally from the Highlanders (8-10, 4-4 Big West). Olivia Williams scored a team-high 12 points, while Déja Lee added 10 points, five rebounds, and five assists. UCI dominated rebounds (37-29) and points in the paint (24-16). UCR’s Seneca Hackley led all scorers with 18 points. UCI faces Hawai’i next on Jan. 25 at 9 PM PT.
UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men's Volleyball
Fri, Jan 24: vs BYU, 6:00 PM
Men's Basketball
Sat, Jan 25: vs Hawaii, 7:00 PM
Baseball
Sat, Jan 25: vs Alumni Game, 12:00 PM
Women's Basketball
Thu, Jan 30: vs Long Beach State, 6:00 PM
Women's Tennis
Sat, Jan 25: vs Idaho, 11:00 AM
Fri, Jan 31: vs Caltech, 2:00 PM
🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS
Men’s Basketball
Fri, Jan 24: vs Cypress, 7:00 PM
Wed, Jan 29: vs Santa Ana, 6:00 PM
Men’s Baseball
Fri, Jan 24: vs Long Beach, 1:00 PM
Men’s Volleyball
Wed, Jan 29: vs LA Pierce, 6:00 PM
Women’s Basketball
Fri, Jan 24: vs Fullerton, 5:00 PM
Fri, Jan 31: vs Santa Ana, 6:00 PM
High School Athletics Calendar
** Updated With January Schedule
Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:
January 2025
Friday, January 24
Girls' Water Polo (VR) - Var Socal Tournament at Woolett Pool
7:00 PM - Boys' Basketball (VR) vs. Sage Hill at Irvine High School Game Gym
Saturday, January 25
Girls' Water Polo (VR) - Var Socal Tournament at Woolett Pool

Two Suspects Arrested for $2,000 Home Depot Theft in Irvine

An Irvine patrol officer stopped a suspicious vehicle missing license plates and discovered $2,000 worth of stolen tools from Home Depot stores in two nearby cities. Karen Hurtado Lopez, 23, and Cristian Moreno, 22, both from Los Angeles, were arrested for theft, conspiracy, and possession of stolen property, with Moreno also wanted on a $25K warrant. Both suspects were booked at Orange County Jail.

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

January 26 Opening Reception: More Than You Can Chew 1 - 3 PM
January 26 Fresh Premieres & Timeless Dvořák 3 PM
January 29 Woodbridge Village Association: Red Cross Blood Drive 1 -7 PM
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 9 Lunar New Year Celebration at the Irvine Spectrum 12 - 3 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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