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Northwood Community Park Playground Renovations Begin November 2, Reopening Summer 2027

Issue # 0721

Author

Joshua Tjia
26 Oct

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh of the Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🗳️ Irvine Opens Three Vote Centers Ahead of Nov. 3 Election, With 12 More Opening Oct. 31

💧🎣 Irvine Lake Draining Begins October 26 for Major Dam Improvements

🛒🎉 Join Super Irvine’s 1st Anniversary Celebration for Free Samples, Music, and Fun

🚧🛝 Northwood Community Park Playground Renovations Begin November 2, Reopening Summer 2027

🤒 Stay Healthy This Cold and Flu Season with These Simple Family Wellness Tips

🌳🚶 Join an After-Work Fitness Hike Along Hicks Haul Road on October 28

🪈🎶 South Coast Chinese Cultural Center Launches New Youth Music Ensemble

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐕💛 Give a Little Love: Support Animals at Irvine Animal Care Center

⚽️ UCI Men's Soccer Defeats UC Santa Barbara 1-0, Secures Big West Semifinal Home Game

🏀🏐🎾⚽️ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

⚽️ IVC Soccer’s Andrew Roldan Named OEC Athlete of the Week

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈 Crean Lutheran Celebrates Second Straight Bravo League Football Championship

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚙🚓 Irvine Police Arrest 19-Year-Old Suspect After Foot Chase Involving Stolen Vehicle

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

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

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

Why did the apple join the circus?

It loved the apple-ause.

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

Irvine Opens Three Vote Centers Ahead of Nov. 3 Election, With 12 More Opening Oct. 31

Irvine residents can now cast their ballots for the November 3 General Municipal Election. Three Vote Centers are currently open, with 12 more opening October 31.

  • Irvine Civic Center: 1 Civic Center Plaza (drive-thru ballot drop-off available)

  • Los Olivos Community Center: 101 Alfonso

  • Portola Springs Community Center: 900 Tomato Springs

  • Additional Locations: 12 more Vote Centers open Saturday, October 31.

  • Voting Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. through November 2; 7 a.m.–8 p.m. on Election Day, November 3.

Irvine Lake Draining Begins October 26 for Major Dam Improvements

Work to drain Irvine Lake is scheduled to begin Monday, October 26, as part of a long-planned project to repair and upgrade Santiago Creek Dam, built in 1933. The Irvine Ranch Water District says the improvements are needed to meet modern earthquake and safety standards, repair the water-intake system, and increase water storage capacity. While the project has raised concerns among local anglers, officials say the work has been planned for years. Once completed, the upgrades are expected to add 3,700 acre-feet of water storage, improve rainwater capture, and reduce reliance on imported water. The project is expected to be completed by 2030.

Join Super Irvine’s 1st Anniversary Celebration for Free Samples, Music, and Fun

Super Irvine is celebrating its 1st anniversary on Friday, November 6, from 1–4 PM at Parkview Center. Stop by for an afternoon of free food samples, vendor demonstrations, giveaways, and DJ music. Enjoy tastings from Super Irvine’s restaurant, bakery, juice bar, tea station, and participating vendors, including Mary’s Chicken, Boar’s Head, and more.

Northwood Community Park Playground Renovations Begin November 2, Reopening Summer 2027

Northwood Community Park is getting a makeover starting Monday, November 2, with new playground equipment, rubberized surfacing, shade structures, picnic tables, and ADA-accessible ramps, while keeping its popular castle centerpiece.

  • The playground will be closed during construction, but the community center and nearby fields will remain open.

  • Fitness stations along the track will be replaced in early 2027, with temporary closures.

  • Parking will remain available, although some spaces may be restricted during weekday construction hours (7 a.m.–5 p.m.).

  • The upgraded playground is expected to reopen in summer 2027.

  • For questions or updates, call 949-724-6676 or email [email protected].

Stay Healthy This Cold and Flu Season with These Simple Family Wellness Tips

UC Irvine public health is sharing some tips to help families stay healthy during cold and flu season, especially infants, older adults, and those more vulnerable to illness.

Health Tips

  • Eat nutritious foods: Include seasonal fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and vitamin D-rich foods to support immune health.

  • Support gut health: Enjoy fiber-rich foods and fermented options like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi.

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially older adults who may be more prone to dehydration.

  • Get enough rest: Prioritize quality sleep and manage stress to support physical and emotional well-being.

  • Practice healthy habits: Wash hands regularly and avoid close contact with vulnerable loved ones when sick.

  • Stay socially connected: Spend quality time with family and check in on older relatives.

Join an After-Work Fitness Hike Along Hicks Haul Road on October 28

Enjoy an after-work workout with a scenic sunset hike at Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve on Wednesday, October 28, from 6–7:30 p.m. This 3.5-mile fitness hike along paved Hicks Haul Road to the top of Loma Ridge features panoramic views of Orange County, and participants can walk, jog, or run at their own pace.

Register here

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South Coast Chinese Cultural Center Launches New Youth Music Ensemble

The South Coast Chinese Cultural Center recently launched its new Youth Ensemble, offering students an opportunity to make music together, build confidence, and develop teamwork skills. Participants will learn to keep rhythm, follow a conductor, and perform as a group. Children learning to play Chinese instruments are invited to join and enjoy the experience of making music with fellow young musicians.

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

  • November 4 - Irvine Band Spectacular, 7:00 PM

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  • October 29 - IUSD High School Vocal Festival, 7:00 PM

  • November 3 - Concordia Treble Chorus Festival, 6:30 PM

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

Upcoming Irvine High Choral’s Music Calendar

  • November 4 - Band Spectacular, 7:00 PM

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

Upcoming Portola High School Music’s Calendar

  • October 28 - Fall PHS Orchestra Concert, 7:00 PM

  • October 30 - Fall PHS Band Concert, 7:00 PM

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.phsmusicbooster.org/buy-ticket

Give a Little Love: Support Animals at Irvine Animal Care Center

Looking for a way to help animals in need? The Irvine Animal Care Center welcomes community support to help care for pets while they wait for their forever homes. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:

  • Make a Donation: Help cover medical care, special diets, and essential supplies.

  • Shop Their Wish Lists: Donate pet food, toys, and kennel supplies through Amazon or Chewy.

  • Sponsor a Kennel or Animal: Help provide ongoing care for animals at the center.

  • Donate Gently Used Items: Give towels and other accepted supplies. Check the donation guide before dropping off items.

Find more information here

UCI Men's Soccer Defeats UC Santa Barbara 1-0, Secures Big West Semifinal Home Game

UC Irvine men’s soccer defeated UC Santa Barbara 1-0 on Senior Night, with Shane Kaemerle scoring his first career goal and goalkeeper Scott Williams making five saves to secure the shutout. The win guarantees the Anteaters a top-two finish in the Big West and a home semifinal match on November 7.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men’s Basketball

  • Tue, Oct 27 - vs Cal State, 7:00 PM

Women’s Soccer

  • Wed, Oct 28 - vs Cal State Fullerton, 6:00 PM

Women’s Tennis

  • Thur, Oct 29 - vs UCI Fall Invitational, TBA

  • Fri, Oct 30 - vs UCI Fall Invitational, TBA

  • Sat, Oct 31 - vs UCI Fall Invitational, TBA

IVC Soccer’s Andrew Roldan Named OEC Athlete of the Week

Irvine Valley College soccer player Andrew Roldan was named the Orange Empire Conference Male Athlete of the Week after scoring two goals in a 6-1 win over Saddleback on October 13. Roldan leads IVC with seven goals and 18 points this season, helping the team reach second place in the conference standings.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Women’s Soccer

  • Tue, Oct 27 - vs Santiago Canyon, 3:00 PM

Women’s Volleyball

  • Wed, Oct 28 - vs Canyons, 6:00 PM

  • Fri, Oct 30 - vs Riverside, 1:00 PM

Women’s Basketball

  • Sat, Oct 31 - vs Palomar, 2:00 PM

Men’s Basketball

  • Fri, Oct 30 - vs Grossmont, 5:00 PM

Men’s Soccer

  • Fri, Oct 30 - vs Fullerton, 3:00 PM

Crean Lutheran Celebrates Second Straight Bravo League Football Championship

Crean Lutheran's football team defeated Corona del Mar 31-17 on October 23, to win its second straight Bravo League championship. Senior quarterback Caden Jones led the Saints with three touchdown passes and a 73-yard touchdown run, helping the team improve to 7-2 overall and 4-0 in league play.

High School Athletics Calendar

**

Updated with October Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

No further upcoming varsity home games for this month.

Irvine Police Arrest 19-Year-Old Suspect After Foot Chase Involving Stolen Vehicle

Irvine Police arrested a 19-year-old Irvine man after officers located a stolen vehicle at Heritage Point Apartments. The suspect, Noah Isana Kanazawawood, attempted to flee on foot but was caught. He was booked into Orange County Jail on suspicion of possessing a stolen vehicle and resisting arrest. A passenger was released after police found no evidence connecting him to the vehicle theft.

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

September 12 - November 1 Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch

October 26 El Niño Preparedness Town Hall 5:30 - 7 PM

November 6 - 7 Idina Menzel 8 PM

November 7 Love Irvine: Citywide Serve Day 8 AM - 12 PM

November 7 Holiday Faire 10 AM - 4 PM

November 8 Barber, Beach & More 3 PM

November 12 Free Grocery Food Box 9 AM - 12 PM

We could use your help

We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!

One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.

Know somebody who lives in the Irvine and surrounding areas and would benefit from being kept in the know?

Please share Irvine Insider with them! It’s simple!

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