Cindy Tran-Chang
Policy Advisor / Community Events Manager
The Federal program SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is known as CalFresh in California.Extra benefits, or emergency allotments, for households enrolled in CalFresh are ending, and starting April 2023, households enrolled in CalFresh will see a decrease of at least $95 a month. For some households the decrease in their benefits may be even greater.
Recipients can ensure they are receiving the full regular amount they are eligible for by reporting any changes in their expenses or income through www.mybenefitscalwin.org or the County of Orange Social Services Agency at 800-281-9799 or one of their locations: https://www.ssa.ocgov.com/about-us/office-locations/office-location-list. Clients can also ask the Social Services Agency about other programs, including Medi-Cal, General Relief and CalWORKs.
Households in need of food assistance or other resources can give 2-1-1 a call, or visit their website at https://www.211oc.org. For questions about the emergency allotments, please call the California Department of Social Services at (877) 847-3663.
This week, I processed the sponsorships for the Hispanic Bar Association Gala and Ocean Institute ‘Sea’cret Soiree as well as 200 Girl Scout cookies for our Womens History Month Brunch.
We want to work with local businesses. Submit your contact here if your business provides services or supplies in District 5 so we can contract with you.
Our team is also getting ready for the Dana Point Festival of Whales! The event commences Friday with a free Welcoming of the Whales ceremony on the beach, followed by a reception at the Ocean Institute. On Saturday, you’ll find Supervisor Katrina Foley and our team along the parade route. We also have a booth Saturday and Sunday, where you can spin the wheel for some cool giveaways! Other events include a Carboard Classic & Dinghy Dash, Clam Chowder Cook-off, Classic Car displays, and a concert on the Cliff with Sheena Easton and Taylor Dane! Hope you can join us for some fun family activities, entertainment and food! Check it out here https://festivalofwhales.com/dana-point-festival-of-whales-event-listing/.
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Annie Mitchell
Policy Analyst / District Representative
Hello, District 5 friends! It has been another exciting week here in the office of Supervisor Katrina Foley! I am gearing up for our Women Making a Difference Brunch, graciously hosted by the Supervisor, where we will get to showcase Women Storytellers in Orange County! We received more than 80 nominations for this inspiring event! If you, or a woman you know, are interested in attending click here to RSVP.
This week, I attended the opening of Eco Now, Laguna Beach in Downtown Laguna! Eco Now gives guests the opportunity to shop for zero-waste household goods. Their example shows how we can protect our environment and work towards a more sustainable future, and the Supervisor is proud to support our local businesses here in Orange County. Learn more: https://www.econowca.com/
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Adam Tallabas
Policy Analyst / District Representative
Hello, District 5! I began the week by accompanying the Supervisor & Alyssa to the OCTA Board Meeting! On Tuesday, I toured William R. Mason Regional Park in anticipation of our annual Flag Day event coming up in June. The park is absolutely gorgeous and I encourage everyone that’s able to spend some time there this weekend!
In honor of the United States Army's 248th Birthday & Flag Day, 248 American flags will be flown at William R. Mason Park in Irvine. Flags flown in honor of all military personnel, firefighters, police officers, medical personnel, and other first responders. We are seeking volunteers to assist in the installation on June 10, 2023 & removal of all 248 flags on June 14th. If interested, please fill out this form or email me at adam.tallabas@ocgov.com!
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Michele Mullen
District Representative
Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce “Wake Up Newport” hosted a Breakfast with Mayor Noah Blom this week at the Newport Beach Public Library. Mayor Blom discussed the State of the City and the Goals and Priorities for 2023. Many issues in the City of Newport Beach involve the County.
Supervisor Foley is already addressing issues involving JWA, homelessness, beach erosion and sand replenishment. Our office is looking forward to working with Mayor Blom and the newly elected city council to address the multi-faceted initiatives.
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 With Mayor Noah Blom
 Wake-up Newport breakfast with Supervisor Foley’s Veteran Advisory Board member, Chase Wickersham and Balboa Island Resident, Dennis Bress.
Board Meeting Updates
Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley commented on the meeting of the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, February 28, 2023. Read the whole press release here.
Agenda Item S41E: Supervisor Katrina Foley and Chairman Donald P. Wagner moved to adopt the resolution to “Support Armenian Human Rights and End the Blockade of the Lachin Corridor” and received unanimous support.
For context, the blockade is tantamount to preventing all the residents of Costa Mesa from leaving the city or receiving supplies into the city.
Agenda Item 25: The Board of Supervisors approved the renewal of a contract with the Laguna Playhouse to support mental health efforts for Orange County youth through theater productions that highlight mental health topics and the Life Stories program to connect with transitional age youth and young adults.
Agenda Item 32: The Board of Supervisors issued and approved changes in policy and process for the 2023 Supportive Housing Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) which will allow the Orange County Housing Authority (OCHA) to improve efficiency in administrating federal dollars for production of affordable and supportive housing. These changes bolster the County’s efforts to expedite production of supportive housing. The 2023 NOFA includes up to $67.1 million in available funding and up to 210 Housing Choice, Mainstream and/or Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Project-Based Vouchers.
Supervisor Foley called on the Director of OC Housing and Community Development to reevaluate Board policy at a future meeting to ensure the County prioritizes higher utilization of Project Based Vouchers, which are an emerging tool for affordability and financing for supportive housing development.
The 2023 NOFA is the latest action of significant increasing investment since 2018 by the Board of Supervisors to fund more supportive housing. Since the adoption of the 2018 Housing Funding Strategy, the County has invested approximately $155 million, resulting in 36 projects representing more than 1,200 units of supportive housing and 1,000 units of affordable housing at various stages of completion, construction and financing throughout the County.
Agenda Item 40: The Board of Supervisors voted to approve the Orange County Health Care Agency’s (HCA) grant application for the Naloxone Distribution Project and obtain more units of Naloxone to address the fentanyl crisis.
Supervisor Foley's vote reflects her continued support for Senator Umberg’s SB 44: Alexandra’s Law, which requires individuals convicted of fentanyl-related offenses to receive a written advisory or admonishment notifying them if an individual dies as a result of their distribution of narcotics that they can be charged with voluntary manslaughter or murder.
Commission Updates
Orange County Parks Commission Update by Michael Wellborn
The Orange County Parks Commission met on the evening of March 2, 2023, at OC Parks headquarters in Irvine. Attending were Chairman Dave Shawver (Inland Cities), Vice Chairman Bert Ashland (First District), Michael Wellborn (Second District), Dave Hansen (Third District), Hallie Jones (newly appointed for the Fifth District) and Erik Weigand (newly appointed for the Coastal Cities).
After reviewing and approving the minutes from the meeting of November 3, 2022, the Commission reviewed the proposed ten year replacement lease for the Orange County Bird of Prey Center. The new lease will allow facility improvements and also allow for alcoholic beverage service for fundraising purposes. The Commission voted to recommend approval of the new lease to the Board of Supervisors.
In other business, the Commission approved the appointments of two new members to the OC Parks Trails Subcommittee, as well as naming Chair Shawver as Chair of the Subcommittee and Michael Wellborn (me!) as the Alternate Chair.
Staff then gave an update on the Utah State University report on the issues of trails management and approaches to addressing the increasing numbers of users on OC Parks trails. Staff presented information from the December 8th Trails Subcommittee meeting about the trails study and pilot project. Commissioner Hansen recused himself from the discussion of the trails study due to a potential conflict of interest, although he did inquire if the study included references to the use of e- bikes on the Wilderness Park trails. Staff responded that no, the study did not address e-bikes as they are prohibited by ordinance from County Wilderness Park trails.
Staff then noted upcoming events in the County’s parks. The next meeting of the OC Parks Commission will be on April 6, 2023.
 Photo: A newly installed mini-park by the City of Anaheim along the Santa Ana River (2019).
Apply to Join a Commission!
The County of Orange is looking for passionate individuals to serve on the variety of County Boards, Commissions, and Committees. I encourage anyone interested and meets the qualifications to apply for a position.
Specific qualifications listed below, but all applicants must be registered to vote in Orange County and reside in District 5, which includes the cities of Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Dana Point, a large portion of Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Newport Beach, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, as well as the unincorporated areas of Coto de Caza, Emerald Bay, Ladera Ranch, Las Flores, Rancho Mission Viejo, Stonecliffe and Wagon Wheel.
Here are a list of Boards, Commissions, and Committees with openings in District 5:
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Assessment Appeals Board
- Must be an Attorney, CPA or Public Accountant, Real Estate Broker, or Appraiser who is licensed/certified within the State of California for a period of at least 5 years. Must maintain qualifications through term of office.
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Coto de Caza Planning Advisory Committee
- Must be a resident in the Coto de Caza specific plan area.
- Development Processing Review Committee
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Emergency Medical Care Committee
- The membership shall consist of one member within each of the following categories: O.C. City Managers Association, O.C. Medical Association, O.C. Fire Chiefs Association, O.C. Chapter of the American Red Cross, Hospital Association of Southern California, O.C. Police Chiefs' and Sheriff Association, City Selection, O.C. Business Council, Ambulance Association of Orange County, O.C. Senior Citizens Advisory Council, Society of O.C. Emergency Physicians, Orange Coast Emergency Nurses Association, District Appointments.
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John Wayne Airport Arts Commission
- Must have a strong interest in art.
- Orange County Historical Commission
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Orange County Human Relations Commission
- Must have a sensitivity to human relations and believe in purpose and goals as set forth in bylaws.
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Orange County In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Advisory Committee
- Must be a recipient who is a current or past user of personal assistance services.
- Seniors Citizens Advisory Council
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Orange County Waste Management Commission
- Shall not be a representative of the waste industry.
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Public Financing Advisory Committee
- Shall not be serving or running for elective office.
Click here to apply for any of these Boards, Commissions, or Committees. For more information, click here to learn more.
I hope you consider filling out an application.
If you or someone you know is interested in joining one of the county's commissions, please consider applying through the link here.
Health News
COVID-19 Data
As of February 27, 2023, 2,368,412 Orange County residents are fully vaccinated. The 7-day average positivity rate (03/02/23) in our County is 8.1%. This equals out to 6 daily positive COVID cases per 100k residents.
Ending the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency in Orange County
From the Orange County Health Care Agency:
The COVID-19 State of Emergency ended in Orange County on Tuesday, February 28. To continue protecting themselves and their loved ones against COVID-19, the OC Health Care Agency (HCA) encourages residents to stay informed on local COVID-19 community spread, stay vigilant about preventive measures and learn where to access vaccines, testing and treatment options as the California State of Emergency (SOE) and Federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) end.
COVID Trends in Orange County
Orange County remains in the Low COVID-19 Community level according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). Locally, COVID-19 case positivity worsened over the last 2 weeks with the case rate per 100,000 per day increasing from 4.9% to 6.2%, overall testing positivity increasing from 6.1% to 7.7%, hospitalizations increasing from 171 to 182, and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) hospitalizations increasing slightly from 17 to 19 between February 8th and February 22, 2023.
The highly transmissible Omicron variant XBB 1.5 remains the predominant strain locally and nationally. However, epidemiolocal studies revealed no difference in disease severity when compared with the most common previous subvariant of Omicron BQ.1.
COVID-19 Bivalent Vaccine Booster
With COVID-19 cases rising in the community, residents are strongly encouraged to continue practicing preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing severe illness. Studies continue to show that bivalent booster vaccines protect against severe COVID-19 disease and reduce the risk of developing complications such as Long COVID.
As of 2/27/2023, 73.5% of OC residents have completed a primary series, and 45.3% have received at least one booster. However, only 17.1% of all OC residents have received a bivalent booster vaccine and only 40.9% of those age 65+, those at highest risk for severe COVID-19 disease, received a bivalent booster.
Local data indicates that for persons 65 and older, hospitalizations has been 8.66 times more likely for those who did not receive the bivalent vaccine (includes those who received no vaccine and those who received some vaccine but no bivalent booster) compared to those who received the bivalent booster. For the same group, death was 5.67 times more likely for those who did not receive the bivalent vaccine.
According to a recently published article, vaccinated individuals who received the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine were 14 times less likely to die from COVID-19 compared to those who received no vaccine and 3 times less likely to die compared with those who received only the original COVID-19 vaccine.1
The HCA continues to utilize the California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) vaccination platform, MyTurn. Vaccination appointments can be scheduled through myturn.ca.gov, www.vaccine.gov andwww.ochealthinfo.com or by calling (800) 914-4887.
COVID-19 Testing
Testing continues to be an effective means to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Locations for free testing can be searched on No-Cost COVID-19 Testing locator and individuals can order at www.covidtests.gov or call (800) 232-0233 for support in multiple languages. Individuals with insurance can also order no-cost at home test kits from their service providers.
COVID-19 Treatment
Individuals who do contract COVID-19 are encouraged to seek treatment such as Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir, ritonavir), which can reduce the risk of severe illness if started early. Paxlovid remains effective against the current circulating COVID-19 variant and is readily available through community health care providers.
Impacts of the End of the California State of Emergency (SOE) and Federal Public Health Emergency (PHE)
- Following the end of California COVID-19 SOE (February 28, 2023), coverage for COVID-19 vaccines, tests and several COVID-19 therapeutics will continue while the Federal PHE remains in place. Once the Federal PHE ends on May 11, 2023, California residents who are insured will continue to have coverage for COVID-19 vaccines, tests and COVID therapeutics for an additional 6 months after the end of the Federal PHE because of California Senate Bills 510 and1473.
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Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) has created an FAQ for those who have health plans covered under DMHC. https://www.dmhc.ca.gov/Portals/0/Docs/DO/COVID-FactSheet2022.pdf
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On December 15, 2022, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (Cal/OSHA) adopted non-emergency COVID-19 preventions. These regulations took effect on February 3, 2023, and will remain in effect for two years after the effective date. Employers can read details HERE.
Update from Providence Mission Hospital
As of May 10, 2023, we will relocate inpatient and outpatient GI (gastrointestinal) services from Providence Mission Hospital Laguna Beach to our Mission Viejo campus. Our Mission Viejo GI lab is located at 27799 Medical Center Road in the Mission Health Center/Leonard Cancer Institute. This transition will allow us to enhance our GI program by centralizing our specialists and technology in a single location.
All impacted caregivers who work at the Laguna Beach location will be relocated to the Mission Viejo campus and will continue to provide GI services. Patients who receive care at the Laguna Beach location will also be transferred to our Mission Viejo campus.
We are confident that the relocation of our GI services will be a smooth transition that allows us to continue proudly serving as South Orange County’s safety-net hospital.
OC Animal Care
In our ongoing efforts to keep the shelters clear, starting this year, OCAC will waive fees for adult dogs over 25 pounds adopted by residents across Orange County! The normal adoption fee for adult dogs ranges from $100 - $200. Help our furry friends at the shelter find loving homes.
Pet of the Week
Meet Jacob, our Pet of the Week! Jacob is an adorable German Shepard mix who arrived at OC Animal Care as a stray in December 2022. Upon arrival, Jacob was very nervous but staff and volunteers made sure to go slow, giving him the space and time he needed to adjust. Over time, we’ve seen him continue to grow and slowly get comfortable with the people he meets!
Jacob still values taking the proper time to trust someone before calling them his best friend, so we think he'll do best in a home with adults only. When out on walks or in the play yard, he'll stay close by, appreciating the companionship more than the activity itself. Jacob will make the most loyal and loving pup to whoever is lucky enough to adopt him!
Jacob's past may be a mystery, but we know he's dreaming of a future with a family who will spoil him rotten! To adopt Jacob, call (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID# A1795668.
Update from the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA)
In February 2023, the ECC received 17,428 calls for 13,296 incidents in our service region for an average of 475 incidents per day, which is a 5.24 percent increase year-over-year. The ECC dispatched the appropriate response in an average time of 61 seconds, which is greater than the national standard.
While the vast majority of these incidents remain under the radar, we proactively work with our media partners to ensure the two million people we serve are kept safe, informed, and engaged in the lifesaving efforts of our firefighters and professional staff.
Cox Charities to Award $100,000 in Grants to Orange County Nonprofits
Applications for Cox Charities Community Grants are now open. Local nonprofits with programs focused on K-12 STEM education, conservation and sustainability, and military and veterans are encouraged to apply for a Cox Charities Community Grant from Feb. 27-March 17. A total of $100,000 is available for nonprofits in Orange County and Palos Verdes.
The grants are part of Cox Charities’ statewide Community Grants program, which is awarding $320,000 total to nonprofits in Cox’s California markets (San Diego, Orange County, Palos Verdes, Santa Barbara).
To apply for a Cox Charities Community Grant, organizations must meet the following criteria:
- Be a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization;
- Be located in or provide services in a Cox Communications service area in California;
- Align with one or more of Cox Charities’ focus areas
To apply, visit www.coxcharitiesca.org/communitygrants. Recipients will be announced in May.
A charitable foundation funded by employee donations that are matched by the company, Cox Charities enables employees to support its communities by awarding grants to nonprofits focused on youth and education, conservation and sustainability, and military and veterans. Cox Charities has awarded more than $500,000 across California in the past three years. Previous local grantees include Orange County Rescue Mission, Ocean Institute, and Speech and Language Development Center. A volunteer advisory board of Cox employees oversees Cox Charities and its giving programs.
Corona Del Mar Chamber of Commerce State of the County with Supervisor Foley - March 9
I'm speaking at the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce on the State of the County on March 9 from 8-9:30 AM at the Beautiful Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club in Newport Beach.
Click here for more information and to RSVP!
Registration for Camp Newport - March 9
 Welcome to Newport Beach where your child can enjoy the best Southern California has to offer. With hundreds of camps to choose from you’re invited to explore our shores in a sailing, surf, and bodyboarding camp, enjoy the breeze in a range of outdoor sports and active camps. Or embrace the shade in one of the many science, music, technology, and art camps awaiting you.
For more information, visit campnewport.com. The website is set to go live on March 8 with registration opening on Thursday, March 9 at 8am. Remember, sign up by May 4 and receive a 10% or more discount on most camps!
 
Ocean Institute's Jazz Fest - A "Sea"Cret Soirée on March 25
 The Ocean Institute is thrilled to celebrate their 20th Anniversary of the Ocean Institute's Jazz Fest with a nod to the roaring 20s! Join their speakeasy themed SEAcret Soiree!
- DUELING PIANOS!
- Gumbo Brothers- New Orleans Jazz Band
- Top-Notch Ethically and Sustainably Sourced Small Plates and Apps
- Silent Auction
- Bubbly Bar
- Dancing, Games, and more
This will be a fun, feel-good, fundraiser that will leave you and your friends smiling as you help support Adopt-A-Class!
OC Fair - "Happy Together"
The 2023 OC Fair is set to for July 14-August 13! The OC Fair invites everyone back for "Happy Together," and encourages people to purchase tickets in advance. Advance ticket purchase is required as we are limiting the number of admission tickets available for each day. Choose your days and plan your summer!
Substance Abuse Resource
 Detox.com’s mission is to provide the best free resources for people to find self-help with substance abuse through detox and other mental health strategies. Check out their website for more information!
OC Alert
Sign up for AlertOC to get notified in case of emergency in Orange County. The mass notification system is designed to keep Orange County residents and businesses informed in the event of a time-sensitive emergency. YOU MUST OPT IN TO RECEIVE ALERTS. Register today at AlertOC.org.
Appointments for Veterans Services
OC Workforce Solutions
Ready Set OC offers no-cost employment training for Orange County youth ages 14-24, including those with disabilities or IEP plans, former or current foster children, pregnant or parenting, offender/ex-offender, and those experiencing homelessness, including couch-surfing or at risk of homelessness.
To find out more information, call the OC Business and Economic Recovery Call Center at (714) 480-6500 or text (657) 210-1295. Email info@readysetoc.com
Equity in OC
Are you in charge of a grassroots organization? the Equity in OC initiative is releasing a POWER BUILDING FUND to provide smaller, grassroots organizations with the opportunity to build their infrastructure and/or capacity
Learn More: Here
Committee Appointments
If you have questions or comments that you'd like to share, in relation to the committees below, please email me at Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com
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