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- Planetary Parade 2025: Six Planets to Illuminate the Night Sky Starting January 21
Planetary Parade 2025: Six Planets to Illuminate the Night Sky Starting January 21
Issue # 0322

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .
😁 Laugh Of The Day
🌤️ Irvine Weather
🏙️🏡 Irvine Council to Revisit Rules for Warehouse Development Near Homes
🗳️✉️ Special Election Set for Irvine City Council District 5 Seat on April 15
🚦 Traffic Alert: Signal Maintenance at Bryan and Marketplace Today
🍫🍓 Preorder Farm-Fresh Chocolate-Covered Strawberries for Valentine’s Day
🪐 Planetary Parade 2025: Six Planets to Illuminate the Night Sky Starting January 21
📖🐇 Explore Japanese Stories and Songs at Heritage Park Library – January 15
🏥💵 Diana and David Sun Double Their Hoag Gift to $100 Million for Irvine Campus Expansion
🦅🪶Spot Birds This Winter at Peters Canyon Regional Park
📝🎨 Applications Open January 15 for the 31st Annual Studio Arts Festival
🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar
🐕🐹 Over 20 Pets Find Homes in Irvine: Adoptions, Rescues, and Reunions
🏀 UC Irvine Men's Basketball Beats UCSD 60-52, Remains Undefeated in Big West
🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games
🏀 Irvine Valley Men’s Basketball Stuns Riverside with Dominant 92-55 Victory
🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS
🏈 Connor McBride Named Head Varsity Football Coach at Woodbridge High
🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar
🚓🪟 Irvine Contractor Arrested for $50K Window Scam
🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets
🌟🏪🎉Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?
📅📅 Lots of Local Events
📞💡 Useful Contact Information

Why don’t ducks grow up?
Because they only grow down.
We hope this joke brings some laughter to your day! 😁



Irvine Council to Revisit Rules for Warehouse Development Near Homes

The Irvine City Council is set to reconsider regulations on the development of large warehouses and logistics centers in response to concerns about their proximity to residential areas and potential impacts on neighborhoods. Proposed by Mayor Larry Agran and Councilwoman Kathleen Treseder, the new regulations would require such projects to obtain a conditional use permit, ensuring review by the city’s planning commission for neighborhood compatibility, infrastructure effects, and environmental considerations. This proposal, initially brought forward in April 2023, was previously rejected by the former council majority. With three new members now on the council, the issue is scheduled for renewed discussion at the upcoming meeting.
Special Election Set for Irvine City Council District 5 Seat on April 15

A special election for Irvine’s Council District 5 is set for April 15 to fill the remaining two years of Larry Agran’s council term after his elevation to Mayor. District 5 includes Woodbridge, Westpark, University Park, and Rancho San Joaquin, with ballots sent only to its 28,584 registered voters. Candidates vying for the seat include former Councilmembers Anthony Kuo and Tammy Kim, public relations executive Betty Martinez Franco, perennial candidate Katherine Daigle, and newcomer Gail Pennington. Candidates have until January 17 to file. This election follows Measure D, which expanded the City Council and initiated district elections.
Traffic Alert: Signal Maintenance at Bryan and Marketplace Today

Traffic signal maintenance is underway today at the intersection of Bryan Avenue and Marketplace, with signals turned off or in red flash mode from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Efforts are being made to minimize disruptions, but delays are expected.
Preorder Farm-Fresh Chocolate-Covered Strawberries for Valentine’s Day

Sweeten your Valentine’s Day with chocolate-dipped strawberries from Tanaka Farms! 🍓🍫 These farm-fresh treats are the perfect way to say "I love you." Preorders will open soon, so stay tuned for details and secure yours before they sell out!

Planetary Parade 2025: Six Planets to Illuminate the Night Sky Starting January 21

2025 kicks off with a stunning planetary parade featuring six visible planets: Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus.
This event, lasting from Jan. 21 to late February, offers prime viewing just after sunset, with Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn visible to the naked eye, while Neptune and Uranus require a telescope.
The best viewing week is around Jan. 29 during the new moon for reduced light pollution.
In late February, Mercury briefly joins the lineup, creating a seven-planet parade, though visibility will be challenging.
Observatories across North America confirm excellent viewing opportunities, but stargazers should avoid city light pollution and use apps like Stellarium or Star Walk 2 for guidance.

Explore Japanese Stories and Songs at Heritage Park Library – January 15

Join a fun and engaging Japanese Storytime featuring stories, songs, fingerplays, and rhymes for children and families of all ages. This bilingual event takes place on Wednesday, January 15, from 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM at the Irvine Heritage Park Library. It's perfect for kids aged 0-11 and anyone interested in Japanese culture.

Diana and David Sun Double Their Hoag Gift to $100 Million for Irvine Campus Expansion

Diana and David Sun have doubled their commitment to Hoag with a second $50 million gift, bringing their total contribution to the Sun Family Campus in Irvine to $100 million—the largest family donation in the Boldly Hoag campaign. Scheduled for completion in 2026, the expansion includes six new buildings, 155 inpatient beds, and 120,000 square feet of ambulatory facilities, with a focus on cancer, digestive care, women’s health, and advanced surgeries. The Suns’ generosity has inspired widespread community support and will help transform healthcare through state-of-the-art facilities and innovative clinical research.

Spot Birds This Winter at Peters Canyon Regional Park

Join the Winter Bird Walk at Peters Canyon Regional Park on Wednesday, January 15, from 7:30–9:30 AM. Explore with an OC Parks Volunteer to spot birds in trees and scrubs.
Bring binoculars, sun protection, and comfortable shoes.
This is a free program with a $3 parking fee.
Walk-ins welcome; registration recommended.
For questions, contact Shelly Marshall at (714) 973-6625 or [email protected].

Applications Open January 15 for the 31st Annual Studio Arts Festival

Vendor applications for the 31st Annual Studio Arts Festival open Wednesday, January 15! This one-day event on Saturday, June 7, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Heritage Community Park near the Irvine Fine Arts Center showcases Southern California artists in ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, fiber, and glass. Juried exhibitors display exceptional expertise, with outdoor spaces available for up to two pre-approved artists per booth. This beloved community tradition invites you to participate. Apply starting January 15 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

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

Over 20 Pets Find Homes in Irvine: Adoptions, Rescues, and Reunions
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Between January 6–12, Irvine Animals celebrated the adoption of 6 dogs (Calbee, Fry, Jade, Panda, Thompson, and Titus), 11 cats (Atticus, Bernard, Callie, Catticus, Christmas, Custard, Link, Missy, Sophia, Sparkle, and Zelda), 2 birds (Jingle and Jolly), and 1 hamster (Maud Dib). Additionally, 1 dog (Mirabel) was sent to rescue, and 7 dogs and 2 cats were reunited with their owners. For adoption details and operating hours, visit irvineanimals.org/adopt. Congratulations to all the pets and their new families!

UC Irvine Men's Basketball Beats UCSD 60-52, Remains Undefeated in Big West

UC Irvine remains undefeated in the Big West after defeating UC San Diego 60-52 in a sold-out LionTree Arena, ending UCSD’s 12-game win streak. Center Bent Leuchten led UCI with 23 points and 13 rebounds, while Myles Che added 15 points and four assists. The Anteaters' defense held the Tritons to their lowest scoring game of the season. UCI improves to 15-2 overall (5-0 Big West) and leads the nation with eight road wins. Up next, UCI faces Cal State Fullerton on January 16 at 7 PM in the Bren Events Center.
UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Men's Basketball
Thu, Jan 16: vs Cal State Fullerton, 7:00 PM
Sat, Jan 18: vs Cal Poly, 7:00 PM
Irvine Valley Men’s Basketball Stuns Riverside with Dominant 92-55 Victory

The Irvine Valley College men’s basketball team delivered a dominant performance, defeating Riverside 92-55 in an Orange Empire Conference road game. Shooting a season-best 61.3% and out-rebounding Riverside 45-26, the Lasers showcased exceptional teamwork, scoring 50 points in the paint. Freshman Matt Mowers led with 27 points and 8 rebounds, supported by Josiah Reed with 18 points and solid contributions from Yanis Aldeguer (11 points) and Allen Moser (10 points). The win marked IVC’s first at Riverside since 2015, improving their record to 10-8 overall and 2-3 in conference. They face Orange Coast next on Wednesday at 6 p.m.
🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS
Men’s Basketball
Fri, Jan 17: vs Saddleback, 6:00 PM
Men’s Baseball
Fri, Jan 17: vs Mt. San Antonio (Scrimmage), 11:00 AM
Women’s Basketball
Wed, Jan 15: vs Riverside, 6:00 PM
Connor McBride Named Head Varsity Football Coach at Woodbridge High

Connor McBride, a 26-year-old former standout running back for Woodbridge High School, has been named the school's head varsity football coach, succeeding Aaron Craver. An Irvine native and second-generation Woodbridge alum, McBride set career school records in rushing yards (4,966) and touchdowns (43) and led the team to four consecutive CIF playoff appearances before graduating in 2017. After a collegiate football career at Saddleback College and San Diego State University, he gained coaching experience as an assistant at University High School and as JV offensive coordinator. McBride, also a history and physical education teacher at Solis Park Middle School, expressed excitement about returning to his alma mater, calling the role a "dream come true." He plans to create a positive culture and build excitement for the program, working alongside his sister, Kylie, the school's cheerleading coach. McBride will meet with players and parents to outline his vision and begin assembling his coaching staff.
High School Athletics Calendar
** Updated With January Schedule
Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:
January 2025
Tuesday, January 14
5:30 PM - Girls' Basketball (VR) vs. Laguna Beach at Irvine High School Game Gym
Wednesday, January 15
5:00 PM - Boys' Wrestling (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym
5:00 PM - Girls' Wrestling (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym
Friday, January 17
5:00 PM - Girls' Soccer (VR) vs. St. Margarets Episcopal at Irvine High School Stadium
5:30 PM - Girls' Basketball (VR) vs. University at Irvine High School Game Gym
7:00 PM - Boys' Basketball (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym

Irvine Contractor Arrested for $50K Window Scam
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A contractor in Irvine was arrested for grand theft after taking $50,000 from a victim to install new windows but never completing the work. The victim discovered the scam when they learned the window order had been canceled and reported the incident to the Irvine Police Department. Detectives built a strong case, leading to the arrest of 51-year-old Michael Steven Hopsiter at his Menifee residence. He was booked into 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 17 Pacific Jazz Orchestra Ivan Lins' 80th Birthday Celebration 8 PM
January 18 GRAHAM100: the 100th Anniversary of the Martha Graham Dance Company 7:30 PM
January 18 The Peking Acrobats 8 PM
January 19 Trio Barclay: Ravel's Piano Trio 5 PM
January 21 "In the Fiddler's House" with Itzhak Perlman 8 PM

January 23 An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee 8 PM
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 Pacific Symphony: Lunar New Year 8 PM
February 2 Woodbury Night Market: Lunar New Year Edition 4 - 7 PM


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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