In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🍴🍊🧡 Goodwill of Orange County Launches The Good Market, a New Lifeline for Veterans

🚧🏦 Irvine's Great Park Completes Phase 1, Sets Stage for Next Demolition Phase

☔💧 Postpone Water-Heavy Chores: OC San Faces Wastewater Challenges Amidst Heavy Rains

☂🎄🚷 Tanaka Farms Announces Temporary Closure Due to Rain, Promises Quick Reopening!

🎶🎹 Celebrating Musical Excellence: Pacific Stars Piano Contest Concludes with Stunning Performances

💵🎄 Navigating Holiday Cheer Amidst California's Tax Maze: What the Taxpayer Protection Act Means for You

🍪🐇⛄ Interactive Fun at OCPL: Vote in Weekly Poll and Join Winter Activities

😷🦴 Discover Quick and Reliable X-Ray Diagnostics at Orange County Urgent Care Clinics

🌹🦋🌹 Discover the Behr's Metalmark Butterfly - Nature's Petite Powerhouse

🏮🍊 O.C. Lantern Festival Calls for Artists, Musicians, and Volunteers

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🎄🔥 Holiday Alert: Prevent Christmas Tree Fires - Keep It Hydrated and Away from Heat

🏀 Dean Keeler Dominates Basketball Court, Clinches Anteater of the Week Title

⚽🥅 UCI's Luke Pruter Makes History as First Goalie Drafted in MLS SuperDraft Main Rounds

🤽‍♂️⚽🏐 UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀 IVC’s Luke Farrington Named Athlete of the Week with Top Rankings in Field Goal and Three-Point Shooting

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏈💐 Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Terry Henigan, Irvine's Renowned Football Coach

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

👮‍♂️🚴‍♀️ Irvine Police Successfully Apprehend Walmart Bike Thief; Charges Include Narcotics Possession

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

Why did the snowball break up with the ice cube?

Answer: It found someone cooler.

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

Goodwill of Orange County Launches The Good Market, a New Lifeline for Veterans

Goodwill of Orange County opened The Good Market, a permanent pantry at the Tierney Center for Veteran Services, supporting their mission to aid personal and career development through consistent access to nutritious food. Open Monday-Friday 9am-2pm, this initiative strengthens their partnership and aims to positively impact the Veteran community.

#WeFeedOC

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Irvine's Great Park Completes Phase 1, Sets Stage for Next Demolition Phase

Phase 1 of the Great Park Framework Plan in Irvine is complete, with 69 structures removed, hazardous materials cleared from 34 buildings, and successful hauling operations. Thanks to the City of Irvine's Great Park Division for timely updates. Next, Phase 2 demolition at ARDA and Cultural Terrace will start in spring/summer 2024, with additional work south of ARDA in mid-2024. Further updates will be shared as projects commence.

#GreatParkConstructionUpdate #Phase2Demo #GreatPark #Irvine

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Postpone Water-Heavy Chores: OC San Faces Wastewater Challenges Amidst Heavy Rains

OC San is dealing with high water levels due to the storm, causing increased wastewater flow to treatment plants and potential sewer issues. Residents are requested to delay water-intensive tasks like laundry or dishwashing until after the rain has passed, preferably post-6:00 p.m., and to conserve water by turning off taps when not in use and taking shorter showers.

Source

Tanaka Farms Announces Temporary Closure Due to Rain, Promises Quick Reopening!

Tanaka Farms will be closed 12/21 due to rain. U-Pick Tours and Hikari Festival of Lights reservations are refunded. Reopening possibly on 12/22. CSA box pickups at old stand. Stay updated for more info.

#TanakaFarmsClosure #WeatherUpdate #Refunds #CSAPickup #ReopeningSoon

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Celebrating Musical Excellence: Pacific Stars Piano Contest Concludes with Stunning Performances

Congratulations to the winners of the Pacific Stars International Piano Competition. Great performances at Concordia University and grateful to Sarah Zhang for inspiring the youth.

#pianorecital #talent

Source

Navigating Holiday Cheer Amidst California's Tax Maze: What the Taxpayer Protection Act Means for You

During Christmas, Californians face numerous taxes, from property taxes on decorated stores to sales and gas taxes, contributing to the state's high cost of living. The "Twelve Taxes on Christmas" highlight this tax burden. The Taxpayer Protection Act (TPA), up for a vote in November 2024, aims to give Californians more control over state and local taxes, potentially easing the financial strain during festive seasons.

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Interactive Fun at OCPL: Vote in Weekly Poll and Join Winter Activities

Last week's poll was "Cookie or Candy?" Visit your nearest OCPL branch for this week's poll, winter-themed activities, and scavenger hunts. Register at ocpl.beanstack.org for reading tracking, and check ocpl.org/winter-reading-challenge-2023 for event details.

#OCPL #WinterReading #OrangeCounty #library #readingchallenge

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Discover Quick and Reliable X-Ray Diagnostics at Orange County Urgent Care Clinics

Urgent care clinics in Orange County provide immediate, comprehensive care for non-life-threatening conditions, featuring on-site X-ray and ultrasound services for quick diagnosis and treatment. These clinics are equipped with advanced digital X-ray technology and staffed by California licensed radiologists, ensuring accurate diagnoses for a variety of health issues such as fractures, lung infections, and joint problems. Conveniently located in Irvine, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa, the clinics serve a wide range of nearby areas. Patients can expect a fast, straightforward X-ray process with minimal preparation required, followed by an immediate discussion of results for prompt and effective treatment. It's important to note that ultrasound services are exclusively available at the Fountain Valley location.

Source

Discover the Behr's Metalmark Butterfly - Nature's Petite Powerhouse

The Behr's Metalmark Butterfly (Apodemia Virgulti) is a small but significant North American native species, known for its bright orange wings and crucial role in pollination. Each life stage of this butterfly displays unique patterns and colors. Conservation of their specific habitats is vital for their survival.

#WildlifeWednesday

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O.C. Lantern Festival Calls for Artists, Musicians, and Volunteers

The O.C. Lantern Festival, a community-driven event, offers various participation opportunities:

1. Art Contest: Open to all Southern Californians, this year's theme is "Dragon." Top three artworks win $200 and concert tickets. Submissions due by January 29.

2. Orchestra: String players can join the Lantern Festival Orchestra.

3. Performances & Demonstrations: Groups from any cultural background can apply to perform or demonstrate at the festival, celebrating Lunar New Year.

4. Community Booths: Local nonprofits can set up informational or interactive booths at the festival. Contact Eileen Regullano for details.

5. Volunteering: Volunteers are essential for the festival's success. Interested individuals can contact Abby Edmunds at [email protected] to participate.

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

No further events scheduled for December.

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

Upcoming Irvine High School's Choral Calendar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. 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

Holiday Alert: Prevent Christmas Tree Fires - Keep It Hydrated and Away from Heat

Over 160 annual home fires are caused by Christmas trees. Ensure Christmas tree safety by keeping it away from heat sources and watering it daily.

#OCFAholidaytips

Source

Dean Keeler Dominates Basketball Court, Clinches Anteater of the Week Title

Senior Dean Keeler from Men's Basketball was named Sgt. Pepperoni’s Anteater of the Week for his exceptional game against South Dakota, scoring a career-high 22 points with an 82% shooting accuracy, along with eight rebounds and two blocks, all achieved in just 14 minutes. His season averages are 8.2 points and 5.2 rebounds.

Source

UCI's Luke Pruter Makes History as First Goalie Drafted in MLS SuperDraft Main Rounds

Goalkeeper Luke Pruter from the Anteaters was selected as the last pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft by Columbus Crew SC. Pruter, notable for his achievements including 16 wins, 12 shutouts, and 143 saves in 45 matches, led his team to a Big West Championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2023. He ranked 11th nationally in shutouts and had a goals-against average of 1.03. Pruter is the first Anteater goalie picked in the main rounds of the MLS SuperDraft, joining 15 other Anteaters who have been drafted or signed in the MLS.

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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

IVC’s Luke Farrington Named Athlete of the Week with Top Rankings in Field Goal and Three-Point Shooting

Luke Farrington, a sophomore guard for Irvine Valley's men's basketball team, was named athlete of the week. He scored 14 points in a recent 69-49 win against LA Valley, contributing to IVC's 8-3 record. Farrington averages 10.3 points per game, ranks fourth in field goal percentage (52.7%) and first in three-point shooting (51.5%) in the Orange Empire Conference. He scored a season-high 16 points in a victory over Cerritos and was named an all-tournament player at the IVC Classic. Last season, he averaged 8.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists.

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🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Men’s Basketball:

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

Women’s Basketball:

1. Fri Dec 22 - vs Alumni, Time TBA

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Terry Henigan, Irvine's Renowned Football Coach

Terry Henigan, the renowned former football coach of Irvine High School, passed away on December 20, 2023, at age 79, after battling Alzheimer's since 2019. Henigan, known for his emphasis on success both on and off the field, left a lasting legacy with a 192-126-6 record, four CIF titles, and six league titles during his 29-year tenure at Irvine. He was honored with the CIF Champion For Character award in 2006 and inducted into the CIF Coaching Hall of Fame in 2014. Henigan, who also coached other sports and served as an athletic director, significantly influenced many coaches and players. He is remembered for his positive impact, leadership, and the "Irvine Football Family" culture he established. Survived by his wife Francine, two sons, and extended family, plans for a celebration of life are set for 2024.

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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

- Thursday, 21 December

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

Irvine Police Successfully Apprehend Walmart Bike Thief; Charges Include Narcotics Possession

A man stole a blue Beach Cruiser from Walmart in Santa Ana. Police caught him near Dyer and the 55 Freeway after a brief chase. Francisco Javier Hernandez, 47, was arrested for burglary, resisting arrest, and narcotics possession.

#IrvinePD highlights the incident to discourage crime in Irvine.

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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 - 24 Dr Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical

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