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Save Money on Tax Prep: Free Services for Individuals Earning Under $64K

Issue # 0102

Author

Joshua Tjia
19 Feb

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

💜🤝 Crime Survivors: Bridging the Gap Between Victims and Vital Support Services

🎊🐈🎥 2024 Persian Film Festival: A Cinematic Journey Through Persian Art and Stories

⛲🐶🐱 Irvine's Oak Creek Community Park Announces Construction of New Temporary Dog Park

☀♻ Irvine Embraces Solar Future: City Council Greenlights Solar Energy Project

💰💲 Save Money on Tax Prep: Free Services for Individuals Earning Under $64K

🍊🧡 Family Volunteering Opportunity: Help Package Fruits with Pretend City for Local Families in Need

🍴😋 Dine Out for Education: The Kebab Shop Hosts Fundraiser for Westpark Elementary PTA

👩‍⚕️❤ Navigating Women's Heart Disease: Join Dr. Jin Kyung Kim for a Talk on Women's Cardiology

🚶‍♀️🌳 Adventure Awaits: Explore Black Star Canyon's Trails on Wilderness Access Day

💃🌹🌼 Experience the Magic of Spring with "The Story of Nowruz": A Theatrical Journey Through Persian Culture

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🏀 UCI Men's Basketball Hits Season-Best 30 Free Throws to Clinch Win Against Cal State Bakersfield

🤽‍♀️💦🥇 UC Irvine's Tara Prentice Stars in Team USA's Gold Medal Victory at 2024 World Aquatics Championships

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

⚾ Woodbridge High Baseball Secures Narrow Victory Over Tustin in Season Opener

👮‍♂️🚔 Road Rage Incident at Irvine Spectrum Leads to Arrest for Brandishing Fake Firearm

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

Why do lemons use sunscreen?

Because if they don’t they will peel!

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

Crime Survivors: Bridging the Gap Between Victims and Vital Support Services

Crime Survivors assists crime victims in their recovery process across mental, physical, emotional, and financial aspects, emphasizing the importance of support from law enforcement, the judicial system, and the community. For more details on available resources, reach out to Crime Survivors via email at [email protected] or phone at (844) 853-4673. Follow them on social media @crimesurvivors.

2024 Persian Film Festival: A Cinematic Journey Through Persian Art and Stories

The Persian Film Festival is set to take place from March 2nd to 3rd, offering a rich tapestry of cultural exploration and cinematic excellence.

  • The event kicks off at Chapman University's Folino Theater inside the Marion Knott Studios on March 2nd, from 6 to 10 pm, before moving to the Frida Cinema in Santa Ana on March 3rd, from 12 to 4 pm. The festival will open with the critically acclaimed film "The Persian Version," written and directed by Maryam Keshevarz, which garnered three awards at Sundance in 2023.

  • Layla Mohammadi and Niousha Noor, stars of "The Persian Version," will attend the screening for a Q&A session on March 2 at 8 pm

  • Attendees can look forward to engaging panels discussing themes such as magical realism, Persian art, the unique challenges faced by first- and second-generation Persian-Americans, women's rights, and the tragedy of war.

  • The festival also offers a VIP cocktail reception, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to meet the directors.

  • Furthermore, audience participation is highly encouraged, with opportunities to ask questions and vote on favorite films.

For tickets and additional information please visit: www.persianfilmfest.com.

Irvine's Oak Creek Community Park Announces Construction of New Temporary Dog Park

Temporary Dog Park Construction at Oak Creek Community Park 🚧

  • Start Date: Tuesday, February 20, weather permitting.

  • Construction Hours: Weekdays, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  • Impact: Minimal parking impact, no traffic disruption.

  • Completion: Expected by May.

  • Availability: Central Bark Dog Park remains open during construction. It will close later for improvements related to the City's Operations Support Facility and Irvine Animal Care Center.

  • Future: A permanent dog park is planned for 2025 at Oak Creek Community Park.

  • More Info: Visit bit.ly/49dGIPh.

#WeAreIrvine

Irvine Embraces Solar Future: City Council Greenlights Solar Energy Project

Irvine City Council has approved a solar carport system and energy storage agreement to reduce energy payments, saving $154,755 in the first year and an estimated $3,068,827 over 20 years, with no upfront cost.

Save Money on Tax Prep: Free Services for Individuals Earning Under $64K

If your income was under $64,000 in 2023, you can get free tax filing assistance from OC Free Tax Prep, thanks to their IRS-Certified #VITA volunteers. For more info, visit: https://ocfreetaxprep.com/locations

Family Volunteering Opportunity: Help Package Fruits with Pretend City for Local Families in Need

Pretend City invites the community to come together on March 1st, from 11:30 am to 12 pm, to support Second Harvest Food Bank by packaging fruits for families in need throughout Orange County. This event is a chance for families with young children to contribute to nourishing their community. #givingback #volunteeropportunities #orangecounty #irvine #foodbank

Dine Out for Education: The Kebab Shop Hosts Fundraiser for Westpark Elementary PTA

Attend a fundraiser at The Kebab Shop (@tks_thekebabshop) on Feb 28th, where 50% of proceeds support Westpark PTA. Join them to support or schools and community!

#SupportOurSchools #CommunityMatters #GivingBack

Navigating Women's Heart Disease: Join Dr. Jin Kyung Kim for a Talk on Women's Cardiology

UCI Health and Newport Beach Public Library Foundation are hosting a free event on Feb. 26, 7-8 p.m., featuring Dr. Jin Kyung Kim, a cardiologist specializing in women's heart health. She will discuss the unique aspects of women's heart disease, diagnosis, treatment, and the importance of personalized care. Register at https://bit.ly/48cwdKG.

Adventure Awaits: Explore Black Star Canyon's Trails on Wilderness Access Day

Join the Wilderness Access Day at Black Star Canyon on March 2 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm for a day of exploration suitable for all ages and experience levels. This event, set in the scenic Irvine Ranch Open Space, offers a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian use. Pre-registration is optional but recommended for directions and parking information, with carpooling encouraged due to limited space. Participants should come prepared with necessary safety gear and adhere to trail guidelines to protect both themselves and the natural habitat.

Experience the Magic of Spring with "The Story of Nowruz": A Theatrical Journey Through Persian Culture

"The Story of Nowruz" is a unique stage production that brings to life the 3,000-year-old celebration of the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring. It features themes of inspiration, rebirth, renewal, and hope through dance, music, and professional acting. This first-of-its-kind performance invites audiences to experience a cultural tapestry celebrating community and the spirit of spring.

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

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

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

  2. 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 events scheduled for January.

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

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

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

  2. March 22nd, 7 PM: Spring Concert

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

  4. 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 events scheduled for January.

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

Upcoming Irvine High School's Choral Calendar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  13. 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

UCI Men's Basketball Hits Season-Best 30 Free Throws to Clinch Win Against Cal State Bakersfield

UC Irvine defeated Cal State Bakersfield 77-71, excelling at free throws (30-35) with standout performances from Bent Leuchten and Ofure Ujadughele (both 6-6). The win improves UCI's record to 19-7 and leads the Big West at 12-2. Key players included Leuchten with 14 points and career-best steals (4), Andre Henry with 13 points, and Devin Tillis nearly achieving a double-double. UCI dominated in the paint (38-28) and second-chance points (20-10), with Cal State's Kaleb Higgins leading his team with 15 points. The game featured a strong start from UCI, maintaining the lead at halftime (39-33) and securing the victory despite a tied game in the second half. The win confirms UCI's spot in the 2024 Big West Championship and maintains their unbeaten home record (10-0). Next, UCI hosts UC Santa Barbara on Feb. 22.

UC Irvine's Tara Prentice Stars in Team USA's Gold Medal Victory at 2024 World Aquatics Championships

Tara Prentice, a UC Irvine alum, played a key role in Team USA's gold medal win at the 2024 World Aquatics Championship in Doha, Qatar. The team had a strong performance, outscoring opponents 67-16 in the group stage, with Prentice scoring multiple goals, including two hat-tricks. She also contributed defensively with steals and blocks. This victory marks her second World Championship title and continues her history-making achievements for UC Irvine. Team USA is now preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Women's Basketball

  1. Sat, Feb 24th - vs UC San Diego, 2:00 PM

  2. Thu, Feb 29th - vs CSUN, 6:00 PM

Men's Basketball

  1. Thu, Feb 22nd - vs UC Santa Barbara, 8:00 PM

Men's Volleyball

  1. Fri, Feb 23rd - vs Concordia, 6:00 PM

Women's Tennis

  1. Fri, Feb 23rd - vs New Mexico, 2 PM

  2. Wed, Feb 28th - vs Hope International (Calif.), 2 PM

Baseball

  1. Tue, Feb 20th - vs San Diego, 6:00 PM

Women's Water Polo

  1. Fri, Feb 23rd - vs TBA

  2. Sat, Feb 24th - vs TBA

  3. Sun, Feb 25th - vs TBAMen's Volleyball.

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

Men's Basketball

  1. Fri, Feb 23: vs Cypress at 6:00 PM.

Men's Tennis

  1. Tue, Feb 20: Vs. Riverside at 2:00 PM

Woodbridge High Baseball Secures Narrow Victory Over Tustin in Season Opener

Woodbridge High School's baseball team secured a narrow 5-4 win over Tustin in their season opener, despite a late rally from Tustin. Vincent DeMarco, Woodbridge's pitcher, sealed the victory by getting the final out. Despite some defensive and baserunning errors, Woodbridge Coach Ryan Brucker praised the team's offensive approach and execution of small plays. Augustine Nagoya, Alex Johnson, and DeMarco pitched for Woodbridge, with DeMarco earning the win. The team, which won the Pacific Coast League title last season, rallied from a 2-1 deficit in the fourth inning, capitalizing on Tustin's errors and executing strategic plays to score. Tustin out-hit Woodbridge but couldn't overcome their mistakes. Tustin's Jack Crain and Roman Lavander stood out with their performances. The game also marked the return of Bob Flint, a veteran coach, to the Woodbridge coaching staff.

High School Athletics Calendar -

** Updated With February Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

February 2024

Tue, Feb 20:

  1. Tennis, Boys VR vs. Aliso Niguel, 03:15 PM, Heritage Park

  2. Lacrosse, Girls VR vs. Dana Hills, 05:00 PM, Stadium

Wed, Feb 21:

  1. Volleyball, Boys VR vs. Santa Margarita, 05:45 PM, Game Gym

Fri, Feb 23:

  1. Swimming & Diving, Boys VR, Irvine City Relays, 03:30 PM, Woolett Pool

  2. Swimming & Diving, Girls VR, Irvine City Relays, 03:30 PM, Woolett Pool

Mon, Feb 26:

  1. Softball VR vs. Laguna Hills, 03:30 PM, Softball Field

Tue, Feb 27:

  1. Beach Volleyball, Girls VR vs. Esperanza, 03:00 PM, Deerfield Park Beach Courts

  2. Lacrosse, Girls VR vs. Lutheran/Orange, 05:00 PM, Stadium

Road Rage Incident at Irvine Spectrum Leads to Arrest for Brandishing Fake Firearm

A road rage incident occurred at Irvine Spectrum Center, where one driver showed a fake handgun. Irvine Police, with Spectrum security's help, quickly arrested the man in a store. The weapon was an airsoft pistol, leading to his arrest for brandishing a replica firearm. The collaboration with Spectrum Center was crucial in resolving the situation. Reminder: road rage is dangerous and not worth engaging in.

#irvine #police #roadrage

  • 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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