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Irvine Prepares for Rain – Resources and Safety Tips

Issue # 0343

Author

Joshua Tjia
12 Feb

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🌧️☔️ Irvine Prepares for Rain – Resources and Safety Tips

💵📄 Need Help With Taxes? Get Free Filing Assistance in Irvine

🥩🥢 Sizzling Short Ribs & Shaken Kimchi: Irvine’s New Must-Try KBBQ Spot

🛠️💧 IRWD’s Fix a Leak Workshop Returns March 15 – Learn to Save Water

💦🌂 5 Essential Storm Safety Tips – OCFA Gears Up for the Rain

🤒 Walk-In Urgent Care for Abdominal Pain in Orange County

🐯⚾️ KIA Tigers Bring Championship Training to Irvine’s Great Park

🌟🏫 Woodbridge High Defends Academic Decathlon Title, Advances to State

🖌️ Experience the Beauty of Minna Chow’s Chinese Brush Painting – Free Exhibition at Irvine City Hall Through March 21

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐾 Lend a Paw: Volunteer at Irvine Animal Care Center

🏌🏼‍♂️ UC Irvine Men's Golf Finishes 3rd at Vanharte OC Collegiate Classic

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚓💵 Irvine Police Arrest Man with Fake ID, Stolen Mail, and Counterfeit Einstein Bills

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

What did the paper clip say to the magnet?

"I find you very attractive."

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

Irvine Prepares for Rain – Resources and Safety Tips

Rain is expected starting today, with a flood watch from Thursday at 1 p.m. to Friday at 4 a.m. 

  • Sandbags are available at the City’s Operations Support Facility (6427 Oak Canyon Road) from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., limited to 10 per household (first-come, first-served).

  • Additional sandbags are available through the Orange County Fire Authority at various locations.

  • Report downed trees, flooding, or rain-related issues at 949-724-7000, via the Access Irvine app, or at cityofirvine.org/howcanwehelp.

  • All open space trails are currently open but will likely close today, Wednesday, when the rain begins.

  • Stay safe and dry! More info 

Need Help With Taxes? Get Free Filing Assistance in Irvine

The City of Irvine, in partnership with Orange County United Way, is offering free tax preparation for taxpayers who earned less than $67,000 in 2024.

  • IRS-certified volunteers will assist with filing and applying for credits like CalEITC and the Young Child Tax Credit for eligible families.

  • Services are available Tuesdays from noon to 6 p.m., January 28–April 8 at Harvard Community Center (14701 Harvard Ave, Irvine).

  • Appointments are required—call 211 to schedule.

  • Taxpayers can also file online for free if eligible.

  • Bring necessary documents like ID, Social Security cards, W-2s, and prior tax returns.

  • More info: cityofirvine.org/freetaxfiling.

Early Morning Fatal Collision on Jamboree Rd. – Investigation Underway

Kalbi Social Club is bringing a bold new take on Korean barbecue to Irvine Spectrum, focusing on expertly marinated short ribs (galbi) with a high-end yet approachable dining experience. Opened in November 2024 by the team behind Robata Wasa, the restaurant offers tableside grilling, fresh shaken kimchi, and a sleek, modern atmosphere that sets it apart from traditional KBBQ spots. The menu features curated galbi sets, banchan, and modern Korean dishes like buldak ramyun and kalbi mandu. With a stylish cocktail bar and immersive visuals, Kalbi Social Club is already expanding, with a second location planned for Brea later this year.

Find it at 529 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine, CA, open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

IRWD’s Fix a Leak Workshop Returns March 15 – Learn to Save Water

IRWD’s Fix a Leak Workshop is on March 15, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Household leaks waste nearly 900 billion gallons of water annually in the U.S.—equal to the yearly use of 11 million homes. As part of Fix a Leak Week, this workshop helps residents identify and fix leaks before they become costly issues.

Register at IRWD.com/events. 

5 Essential Storm Safety Tips – OCFA Gears Up for the Rain

OCFA is increasing resources ahead of the expected rainstorm to enhance emergency response.

  • Stay safe by avoiding roads during heavy rain, as hydroplaning and accidents are more likely.

  • Never walk or drive through flooded areas—just a foot of water can sweep away most vehicles.

  • Prepare by clearing gutters, securing sandbags if needed, and keeping an emergency kit stocked.

  • Stay updated with local weather reports and sign up for Alert OC for real-time emergency notifications.

Woodbridge High Defends Academic Decathlon Title, Advances to State

Woodbridge High clinched its eighth Orange County Academic Decathlon victory in nine years, scoring 43,504.4 points and securing a spot at the California Academic Decathlon (March 20-23, Santa Clara). University High also qualified, placing third overall—their seventh top-five finish. Woodbridge dominated individual scores, with Henry Robbins (1st), Shandi Chen (2nd), and Eli Wilson (3rd). Congratulations to both teams! More info: iusd.org/OCDecathlon2025

Walk-In Urgent Care for Abdominal Pain in Orange County

If you're experiencing abdominal pain, Family Care Centers' walk-in clinics in Orange County, CA, offer prompt, compassionate care seven days a week. Their certified healthcare providers conduct thorough evaluations with in-house labs for quick diagnosis.

  • Common causes of abdominal pain include gastritis, ulcers, IBD, kidney stones, and UTIs, with pain categorized as acute or chronic.

  • While mild discomfort can be managed with hydration, heat therapy, and OTC medications, severe or persistent pain requires professional attention.

  • FCCMG clinics provide personalized treatment plans and specialist referrals if needed.

  • Convenient online check-in, free parking, and holiday availability ensure accessible care for Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana, and nearby areas.

KIA Tigers Bring Championship Training to Irvine’s Great Park

The reigning Korean Baseball Organization champions, the KIA Tigers, are holding their 2025 Spring Training at the Great Park Baseball & Softball Complex through February 17. With 60 participants, including 22 coaches and 38 players—featuring rookie pitcher Kim Tae-hyung—the team brings top-tier talent and championship energy to Irvine. Follow their journey as they train in our city!

Experience the Beauty of Minna Chow’s Chinese Brush Painting – Free Exhibition at Irvine City Hall Through March 21

Irvine-based artist Minna Chow has spent 40 years mastering Chinese brush painting, blending ancient traditions with her love for nature. Her latest works are on display in “Minna Chow: Traditional Chinese Brush Painting,” a free exhibition at Irvine City Hall through March 21. Don't miss this chance to experience the beauty of this delicate art form. For City Hall hours and details, visit cityofirvine.org/artatcityhall.  

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 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

Lend a Paw: Volunteer at Irvine Animal Care Center

Become a Hero for Pets in Need! The Irvine Animal Care Center is looking for passionate volunteers (18+) to help with Animal Care, Foster Care, Greeting, and Transportation. Make a difference in the lives of animals by joining their team. Learn more and apply at irvineanimals.org/volunteer.

UC Irvine Men's Golf Finishes 3rd at Vanharte OC Collegiate Classic

UC Irvine men's golf placed third at the Vanharte Orange County Collegiate Classic at Coto de Caza South Course, finishing with a total score of 873. Despite cutting an eight-stroke deficit to three, UCI trailed runner-up UC Riverside (872) and champion Cal State Fullerton (870). Freshman Tommy Lin led the team, securing fourth place (-2, 214), while junior Yaoting Zou (competing individually) finished fifth (-1, 215). Sophomore Jason Tang tied for ninth (218), junior Rei Harashima tied for 10th (219), and freshman Jack Yu climbed to 20th (223). The team returns to action Feb. 24-26 at the Wyoming Desert Intercollegiate at Classic Club.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men’s Basketball

  • Thu, Feb 13: Men’s Basketball vs UC Santa Barbara, 7:00 PM

Women’s Basketball

  • Sat, Feb 15: Women’s Basketball vs Hawai’i, 2:00 PM

Women’s Tennis

  • Fri, Feb 14: Women’s Tennis vs Monmouth University, 1:00 PM

  • Sun, Feb 16: Women’s Tennis vs UC Davis

Men’s Volleyball

  • Wed, Feb 12: Men’s Volleyball vs Southern California, 6:00 PM

Women’s Water Polo

  • Sat, Feb 15: Women’s Water Polo vs UCLA, 12:00 PM

  • Sun, Feb 16: Women’s Water Polo vs Alumni, 11:00 AM

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Baseball

  1. Sat, Feb 15 – vs West LA, 12:00 PM

Men’s Tennis

  1. Thu, Feb 13 – vs San Diego City, 2:00 PM

Men’s Tennis

  1. Wed, Feb 12 – vs Fullerton, 6:00 PM

Women's Basketball

  1. Thu, Feb 13 – vs Saddleback, 6:00 PM

Women's Beach Volleyball

  1. Sat, Feb 15 – vs Mt. San Jacinto, 9:00 AM

  2. Sat, Feb 15 – vs Santa Barbara, 11:00 AM

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With February Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

February 2025

Wednesday, February 12

  • 7:00 PM - Basketball (Boys, VR) - PLAYOFF - CIF-SS Preliminaries Round 1 at Irvine High School Game Gym

Monday, February 17

  • 3:15 PM - Baseball (VR) vs Segerstrom at Irvine High School Baseball Field

Tuesday, February 18

  • 3:15 PM - Baseball (VR) vs Laguna Hills at Irvine High School Baseball Field

Wednesday, February 19

  • 3:30 PM - Beach Volleyball (Girls, VR) vs Montebello at Deerfield Park Beach Courts

Thursday, February 20

  • 3:00 PM - Tennis (Boys, VR) vs El Toro at Irvine High School Heritage Park

Monday, February 24

  • 3:00 PM - Tennis (Boys, VR) vs Edison at Irvine High School Heritage Park

  • 6:00 PM - Lacrosse (Boys, VR) vs Mission Viejo at Irvine High School Stadium

Irvine Police Arrest Man with Fake ID, Stolen Mail, and Counterfeit Einstein Bills

Irvine police arrested 23-year-old Dayner Chacon Lara of Santa Ana last Friday after he presented a fake driver's license during a traffic stop. Officers found counterfeit $100 bills featuring Albert Einstein, a stolen license plate, and mail belonging to others in his car. Lara is being held at Orange County jail on multiple charges, including possessing stolen property, providing false information to an officer, and possessing a deceptive government ID.

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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