In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🚯♻ Irvine Residents, Your Opinion Matters: City Council Debates Sweeping Ban on Single-Use Plastics

🦺🚲 Essential Holiday Safety Tips for E-Vehicle Gifts: Irvine Police Department's Guidelines

🤍⛄❤ Christmas Pajama Party: Free Chapel's Cozy, Fun-Filled Evening for Ladies

🐈🐇💛 Heartwarming Week at Local Shelter: 24 Pets Find Forever Homes

🎄👶 Navigating Holiday Stress: Tips for Parents on Respecting Children's Limits

💵🤑 Get Smart About College Finances: Join IUSD’s Financial Aid Workshop on Jan 10

❄🌬 Breathe Easy This Winter: Essential Tips for Managing Asthma This Winter

🚶‍♂️🌳 Mid-Week Hike: Conquer the Steep Trails of Bommer and Shady Canyons

🎭 Discover the Art of Playwriting: Winter Sessions for Teens Starting Soon

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

💧🧼 Essential Drain Care: Stop Fats, Oils, and Grease from Ruining Your Holidays

🏀 UC Irvine Women's Basketball Falls to Colorado State 69-63 in Tightly Contested Match

⚽ Desiree Mendoza Signs Up for a Stellar Fifth Year at UCI Soccer, Aiming for New Heights in 2024

🤽‍♂️⚽🏐 UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀 Irvine Valley Women's Basketball: A Breakdown of Their Performance at the Tommy Arellano Challenge

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈🎾 High School Varsity Athletics: Football Face-offs and Sports Calendar

👮‍♂️🚨 Great Park Copper Theft Ring Busted by Irvine PD; Multiple Arrests Mader

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

What do you call a reindeer with no eyes?

Answer: No eye-deer!

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

Irvine Residents, Your Opinion Matters: City Council Debates Sweeping Ban on Single-Use Plastics

Irvine City Council is deliberating a citywide ban on single-use plastic products, including items like Styrofoam foodware, plastic bags, and small water bottles. The proposal, initially discussed in July, faced mixed reactions and lobbying efforts. The Council decided to delay the ban for further discussion and outreach, focusing on education and voluntary compliance in the first year. Meanwhile, the City will start using alternative products in its operations. The ban, if implemented, will be phased in over three years. Mayor Khan emphasized the need for more business outreach and collaboration with Waste Management, while Councilmember Agran suggested immediate steps for the City and further ordinance development. The Council plans to revisit a more refined ordinance in the coming months.

Source

Essential Holiday Safety Tips for E-Vehicle Gifts: Irvine Police Department's Guidelines

Holiday E-Vehicle Safety Tips

• - If gifting e-vehicles (e-bikes, e-skateboards, e-scooters) to students, review safety guidelines from the Irvine Police Department, including their e-bike safety video.

• - Students using e-vehicles for school must register them; contact your school administration for details.

Key Safety Points:

• - Teach students to use e-vehicles responsibly.

• - E-bikes are classified into Type 1 and 2 (up to 20 mph) and Type 3 (up to 28 mph, for 16+ only).

• - Helmets are a must for under 18s and all Type 3 e-bike riders.

• - E-bike riders must follow road rules: obey traffic signals, ride with traffic flow, and be cautious at intersections.

• - Learn to control e-bikes at lower speeds first.

• - Drivers should watch out for cyclists; cyclists and e-vehicle riders should be mindful of pedestrians and pets.

• - Use reflective vests at night and hand signals for turns.

• - Watch for cars from driveways.

Legal Requirements:

• - Ride with traffic, wear helmets, obey stop signs and traffic signals, have a seat for passengers, use lights at night.

Bicycle Safety Basics:

• - Stop and look before entering roads, make eye contact with drivers, ensure feet reach the ground when seated, check brakes, keep tires inflated, avoid headphones to hear traffic.

E-Bike Regulations:

• - Governed at the state level.

• - Type 3 e-bikes not for sidewalks.

• - Bikes need front white light and rear red reflector.

Read more

Christmas Pajama Party: Free Chapel's Cozy, Fun-Filled Evening for Ladies

Free Chapel OC is hosting its annual Christmas Divine Night for ladies on Dec 19th at 7 PM, featuring karaoke, gift-wrapping, cookie decorating, special giveaways, and more. Attendees are invited to wear PJs and bring finger food to share.

Source

Heartwarming Week at Local Shelter: 24 Pets Find Forever Homes

From December 11 to 17, a total of 24 pets were adopted: 8 dogs, 15 cats, and 1 rabbit. Additionally, 1 bird named Luck was sent to rescue, and 6 dogs and 2 cats were reunited with their owners. For more on adoption click here

See more photos

Navigating Holiday Stress: Tips for Parents on Respecting Children's Limits

During the holidays, it's important to respect your child's boundaries by not forcing them to sit on a stranger's lap for photos, hug or kiss seldom-seen relatives, or behave perfectly at every event. They might act out if overstimulated and need downtime.

Source

Get Smart About College Finances: Join IUSD’s Financial Aid Workshop on Jan 10

Register for the Irvine Unified Financial Aid Workshop on January 10 to learn about paying for college

Source

Breathe Easy This Winter: Essential Tips for Managing Asthma This Winter

Winter poses unique challenges for asthma sufferers due to cold air and indoor heating, which can trigger asthma episodes. Cold-induced asthma, a type of asthma exacerbated by cold conditions, shares the same symptoms as regular asthma, including wheezing, breathlessness, and coughing. Triggers for cold-induced asthma include dry air, outdoor exercise, increased mucus production, and indoor allergens.

To manage it, wash hands regularly, wear masks, avoid wood smoke, exercise indoors, breathe through the nose, be prepared with medications, replace heating system filters, stay updated with vaccinations, and have an asthma action plan. For medical assistance, visit urgent cares in Irvine Woodbridge, Fountain Valley, or Costa Mesa.

Read more

Mid-Week Hike: Conquer the Steep Trails of Bommer and Shady Canyons

Join a refreshing mid-week hike through Bommer and Shady Canyons on December 20, 2023, from 7:00 am to 12:00 pm. This 10-12 mile hike in Irvine’s Open Space Preserve includes over 2200 ft. of elevation, steep trails, and is rated difficulty level 4. Hike at a moderate 3 mph pace. Essential requirements:

• pre-registration

• 100 oz. of water

• sturdy shoes

• adherence to safety protocols including a liability waiver.

Source

Discover the Art of Playwriting: Winter Sessions for Teens Starting Soon

Enroll your writing-enthusiast teen in a playwriting class this winter, starting January 13. SCR's acting classes for kids and teens offer a safe environment to enhance self-confidence, communication, and creativity, preparing them for future academic and career success. Tuition is $395 for a 10-week session, with a sibling discount available. Classes run from January 9 to March 16, 2024, and March 19 to June 1, 2024, for returning students.

Learn more

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

1. January 11, 2024: IUSD Winds Area Concert (7:00 pm - 8:30 pm)

2. January 12, 2024: Symphony Irvine Collaboration Concert (7:00 pm - 8:30 pm)

3. March 6, 2024: Spring Festival Concert – Band (7:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

4. March 7, 2024: Spring Festival Concert – Orchestra (7:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

5. March 16, 2024: Irvine Jazz Festival (8:00 am - 5:00 pm)

6. May 11, 2024: Instrumental Music Awards

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

Upcoming University High School's Choirs Calendar

1. February 1 & 2: LEGENDS CONCERT at 7:00 PM.

2. March 7, 8, 9, 14,15, 16: EVITA - Spring Musical at 7:00 PM.

3. May 2 & 3: Broadway Rocks! at 7:00 PM.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.uhschoirs.org/2023-24-season.html

Upcoming Woodbridge High School's Music Calendar

No further events scheduled for December.

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

1. January 17th-22nd: WHS Music Department Disney World Trip

2. February 29th-March 2nd, 7 PM shows: The Wizard of Oz

3. March 22nd, 7 PM: Spring Concert

4. April 16th, 7 PM: IUSD Honors Concert

5. May 31st, 7 PM: Broadway Rocks Concert

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

Upcoming Irvine High School's Music Calendar

1. Tue Dec 19, 2023, 7pm - 9pm: Jazz the Halls

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

Upcoming Irvine High School's Choral Calendar

1. Tues, Dec. 19, 7:00 PM: Jazz the Halls (Chordinated Chaos) at IHS Theater.

2. Fri & Sat, Jan. 26 & 27: Weekend Singers & Canta Bella at Pilgrim Pines.

3. Th-Sat, Feb. 1-3, All day: CA All-State Choir Weekend (Any Student) in Sacramento, CA.

4. Th.-Sat, Feb. 29-Mar 2, 7:00 PM: IHS Musical (Any student) at IHS Theater.

5. March 12 or 13, Morning: IHS Arts Assembly (Canta Bella & Irvine Singers) at IHS Game Gym.

6. Mon, Mar. 18, 7:00 PM: Spring Concert (All Choirs) at Concordia Univ.

7. Fri, March 22, Morning: CSU Fullerton Festival (Irvine Singers) at CSUF Meng Hall.

8. April 1st - 5th, 2024: TBD.

9. Tues, April 16, 7:00 PM: IUSD Honors Concert (Selected Members) at OCPAC.

10. Wed, April 17, 6:30 PM: 8th Grade Parent Night at IHS Gym.

11. TBD: Aliso Women’s Festival (Canta Bella) - Location TBD.

12. Wed, April 17, All day: Forum Festival (Concert Chorale, Chorale & Viva Cantar) at Knott’s Berry Farm.

13. Wed, April 26, 6:00 PM: SPUR Awards (Chordinated Chaos) at IHS Theater.

14. Tues & Wed, May 28 & 29, 3:30-6:30 PM: Dress rehearsal “Voices” (All Choirs) at IHS Theater.

15. Thurs.- Sat, May 30-June 1, 7:00 PM: Voices 2024 (All Choirs) at IHS Theater.

16. Wed, June 5, 7:00 PM: Heritage Awards (Chorale) at IHS Gym.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.ihschoralmusic.org/calendar.html

Essential Drain Care: Stop Fats, Oils, and Grease from Ruining Your Holidays

Don't pour fats, oils, and grease (FOG), including meat fats, cooking oil, butter, margarine, sauces, soups, dairy, and baked goods, down the drain to avoid sewer issues. For more tips, visit IRWD.com/fog.

Source

UC Irvine Women's Basketball Falls to Colorado State 69-63 in Tightly Contested Match

UC Irvine's women's basketball team lost 69-63 to Colorado State in a closely contested non-conference game with seven ties and 15 lead changes. Despite a comeback in the fourth quarter, UCI was outscored at the free throw line in the final minutes. Moulayna Johnson Sidi Baba starred for UCI with a double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds. The team struggled with 3-point and free throw shooting but excelled in rebounds and points off turnovers. Colorado State's balanced attack was led by Caiylyn Crocker and Kendyll Kinzer, each scoring 13 points. UCI's next game is against UC Riverside in the Big West opener. The team continues its streak of holding opponents under 70 points.

Source

Desiree Mendoza Signs Up for a Stellar Fifth Year at UCI Soccer, Aiming for New Heights in 2024

Desiree Mendoza, a high-energy scorer, completes her fifth year at Irvine in 2024. Starting her career with a canceled 2020 season, she quickly became a key player, earning three Big West Freshman of the Week honors. Coach Scott Juniper praises her as a crucial team member. Mendoza, with 10 career goals and six game-winners, has consistently performed well, including a notable performance at Cal State Bakersfield. An education major, she excels academically and athletically, contributing to three Big West titles and deep NCAA Championship runs, and is set to lead the team in 2024.

Source

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men's Basketball

1.  December 28th, 2023 vs UC Riverside - 7:00 PM

Women's Basketball

1.  December 30th, 2023 vs Cal State Bakersfield - 2:00 PM

Source

Irvine Valley Women's Basketball: A Breakdown of Their Performance at the Tommy Arellano Challenge

The Irvine Valley women's basketball team ended with a 1-2 record at the challenging Tommy Arellano North-South Challenge, featuring top-ranked teams from Southern and Northern California. They suffered a heavy loss to Mt. SAC (73-32) but improved against No. 3 San Joaquin Delta, narrowly losing 56-53. The team secured a victory against Chabot, winning 19-15 in the fourth quarter. Key players included sophomore guard Emily Freeman, post player Daphne Rudis, wing Christen Ziska, and post player Makena Tomlinson. Irvine Valley will next compete in the Ventura Tournament on December 29-30.

Source

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Men’s Basketball:

1. Tue Dec 19 - vs Orange Coast. 6:00 PM

2. Fri Dec 29: vs Alumni. 5:00 PM

Women’s Basketball:

1. Fri Dec 22 - vs Alumni, Time TBA

High School Athletics Calendar -

** Updated With December Schedule

Northwood High School Monthly Athletics Calendar (All Level)

University High School Monthly Athletics Calendar (All Level)

Woodbridge High School Monthly Athletics Calendar (All Level)

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

December 2023

- Tuesday, 19 December

- 05:00 PM: Girls Soccer, Varsity vs. Valencia/Placentia (Irvine High School Stadium)

- Wednesday, 20 December

- 05:00 PM: Boys Soccer, Varsity vs. Tustin (Irvine High School Stadium)

- 06:00 PM: Girls Basketball, Varsity vs. Edison (Irvine High School Game Gym)

- Thursday, 21 December

- 03:00 PM: Girls Water Polo, Varsity vs. Trabuco Hills (Woolett Pool)

Great Park Copper Theft Ring Busted by Irvine PD; Multiple Arrests Made

In Great Park, an officer stopped a suspicious truck with three occupants. The driver had a felony warrant and several misdemeanors, the female passenger had a felony warrant and multiple misdemeanors, and the third passenger possessed tools for copper theft. Copper wire and lithium batteries were found in the truck. All three were arrested and booked at Orange County Jail for various charges.

#IrvinePoliceActivity

Source

November 24 - December 30 Hikari Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms 4:30 PM - 10 PM

Click here for discount coupon code

December 9 - 24 Festival Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker

December 19 Holiday Organ Spectacular 7:30 PM

December 19 Christmas Divine Night at Free Chapel 7 PM

December 19 - 24 Dr Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmass! The Musical

December 20 Anime Night: Piano Candlelit Concert 7:30 PM

December 20 - 21 Kevin Hart - Brand New Material 7 PM

Decmber 22 The Pan American Nutcracker Suite Reimagined 8 PM

December 23 Fiesta Navidad 8 PM

Decmber 30 KC and the Sunshine Band 7:30 PM

December 30 Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert 3 PM