Adam Tallabas
District Representative / Policy Analyst
This week, I attended the Grand Opening for Sweet Greens at the Irvine Spectrum! I got to meet all the new employees who looked thrilled to be opening the store. It’s always great to celebrate the creation of new jobs, business & opportunities to eat healthy food here in District 5.
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On Thursday, I attended the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce’s 100 Year Anniversary Gala with the Supervisor and our team! It was a wonderful night to celebrate San Juan & the fantastic businesses and community leaders in it.
Today, I participated in the Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting for Angry Chickz in Aliso Viejo! They are a growing restaurant that is extremely popular on social media! We are so happy they chose District 5 for their newest location – their first in Orange County. The grand opening event was fantastic and the food was delicious!
Jonathan Davis
Policy Advisor
This week, I led a holistic review of the applications our office has received from constituents hoping to serve on a county board, commission, or committee. Orange County has approximately 85 commissions filled with residents volunteering their time for the betterment of our community. Appointments are made during official meetings of the Orange County Board of Supervisors.
If you are interested in serving on a county board, commission, or committee, visit our appointment homepage by clicking here. We look forward to updating everyone who has sent in their application soon. Have a great weekend!
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Lauren Taylor
Summer Law Clerk
This last week, my primary focus was on the Grand Jury reports. I am in the process of diligently reading and researching all the reports. Since the Supervisor prioritizes the public safety of constituents as well as local animals, our focus is on the Grand Jury reports about the fentanyl crisis and the review of Orange County Animal Care.
Additionally, I had the pleasure of attending the 2023 State of Orange County. Having the Supervisor speak on the critical issues in Orange County was very inspirational. I look forward to more opportunities like this one!
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Luca Shakoori
Policy Intern
On Tuesday, my fellow intern Claire and I attended a concert at Fairview Park in Costa Mesa. The band playing was “Savor: A Santana Tribute Band”. We had a great time at our community booth meeting members of the community. Come say hello if you see us at a concert this Summer! I also worked alongside Jonathan Davis, our Senior Policy Advisor, on preparing briefings for the Board of Supervisors Meeting this past Tuesday.
Health News
Washington University Scientists Develop An Air Monitor That Can Detect Covid-19 Virus
A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis has developed an air monitor that can alert users to the presence of SARS-CoV-2 — the virus responsible for COVID-19 — in just five minutes. Learn more here.
From the OC Health Care Agency
OC Health Care Agency Reports Three Mpox Cases in Orange County
The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) has received reports of three probable cases of mpox in Orange County (OC) in the past week. The three cases are the first reported in OC since April 8, 2023; five total cases have been reported here in 2023. While case counts are lower this year, mpox cases continue to be reported in Southern California and around the country. The best way to protect oneself from getting mpox is by completing the two-dose mpox vaccination regimen.
The mpox vaccine has been shown to be safe and highly effective when people complete the vaccine series (two doses, at least 28 days apart). During last month’s OC Pride Event, the HCA’s Public Health Services administered more than 80 mpox vaccinations to attendees. Since last year, more than 7,500 people in OC have received their first dose of mpox vaccine. However, 30% of those who received the first dose, have not received a second dose to complete their vaccination series.
To find a vaccine near you and schedule an appointment to be vaccinated, visit MYTURN.CA.GOV.
If you think you might have mpox or been exposed to someone with mpox, talk to your health care provider. The mpox vaccine can decrease your risk of getting sick if given within 14 days of being exposed. Testing for mpox is widely available and treatment for mpox can be discussed with your provider. If you do not have a regular provider, call 2-1-1 or the HCA's Health Referral Line at (800) 564-8448 for assistance.
For more on mpox in Orange County visit www.ochealthinfo.com/mpox.
E-Bike Safety
E-scooters are the future of active, green public transportation! Riding behavior and safety are top priority, especially when it comes to helmets, sidewalks and speed.
If you’re under 18, please wear a fastened helmet. It’s also important to ride only in bike lanes, bike paths and bikeways. The only exceptions are when passing, when completing a turn and when avoiding hazards.
The e-scooter speed limit is 15 mph, regardless of a roadway’s higher speed limit. Don’t ride with a passenger, on the sidewalk or without your valid driver’s license. If you’re turning, dismount and walk your scooter. Treat crosswalks like sidewalks, hop off when crossing. Like driving any motor vehicle, operate by traffic rules. Remember to equip your scooter with lights and reflectors for nighttime safety.
OC Animal Care
Through Kennel Connection, visitors can view ready-to-adopt pets right in their kennels every Wednesday and Saturday. No appointment needed to walk through. One-on-one visits available on a first come, first serve basis.
All Summer Long at OC Animal Care
OC Animal Care launched its comprehensive summer initiative, All Summer Long at OC Animal Care. This program aims to connect the community with shelter animals through numerous engaging events and pilot projects.
All Summer Long at OC Animal Care offers three distinct sections, ensuring there is something for everyone, including prospective pet owners, current pet owners and those looking to get involved with the shelter.
To learn more, visit the All Summer Long at OC Animal Care page.
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Yogi!
Yogi, an adorable senior boy, has captured the hearts of everyone at the shelter with his lively spirit and affectionate nature. Despite his age, Yogi remains active and full of life, embracing every moment with joy. He may require a little extra TLC for his medical needs, but his resilient spirit and endless love make it all worthwhile.
Curiosity is Yogi's middle name, and he loves nothing more than following you around, eager to explore and be by your side. He's a true gentleman with impeccable manners, keeping his kennel clean and tidy at all times.
Yogi is awaiting his loving forever home where he can settle down and share his heart with a devoted family. If you're looking for a companion who radiates love and happiness, contact us at (714) 935-6848 and mention ID# A1816762.
Join Team Foley
The office of Supervisor Katrina Foley seeks qualified candidates for the three job postings below.
The positions are based at the County Administration building in Santa Ana, with travel requirements throughout District 5.
OC Workforce One-Stop: OPEN NOW!
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
Aliso Viejo Chamber of Commerce Legislative Meet & Greet - Monday, July 31, 2023
The Aliso Viejo Chamber of Commerce presents their first Legislative Meet and Greet!!!
This will be a wonderful evening mixing and mingling with our Legislators, City Council, and other business owners. Enjoy delicious appetizers and a no-host bar. This will be a great opportunity to hear updates from Congress, Assembly, and our County Supervisor. Free admission.
July 31, 2023 at 5:00pm-7:00pm Wedgewood Aliso Viejo Center 31 Santa Barbara, Aliso Viejo Pre-Register on our website: Alisoviejochamber.com 5:00pm-5:45pm Meet and Greet, Reception with Appetizers and No-Host Bar 5:45pm-7:00pm -Program and Presentations
Sponsorship Opportunities Available, deadline July 21, 2023
For more information, email Info@Alisoviejochamber.com
Tax Filing Deadline Extended to October 16, 2023
The IRS announced an extension to change the filing and payment deadlines to October 16, 2023 for victims of severe winter storms, flooding, and mudslides in California. This extension applies to individuals and businesses in Orange County! Learn more here.
From the OC Treasurer
Secured Property Tax Collections Year-End Update:
As of June 30, 2023, 99.23% of secured property taxes has been received, a collection rate just slightly less than the collection rate of 99.27% received as of June 30, 2022 and just short of our record collection rate of 99.3%. For the first and second installments, 98.70% of secured property tax bills have been paid, just slightly lower than the 98.83% paid as of June 30, 2022. In addition, out of the 879,000 secured property tax bills mailed this year totaling $8.3 billion, 868,016 secured property tax bills have been paid versus 865,000 paid as of the same time last year. In addition, total payments received for both installments are up $482.8 million from the same time last year.
Financial Tip of the Week:
You may have heard about food delivery services like DoorDash or Uber Eats: you order through a restaurant’s website or a delivery service’s mobile app and drivers deliver your food. We’re hearing about a new scam targeting food delivery drivers and restaurants.
"Scammers posing as “support” from food delivery services are contacting delivery drivers and restaurants and trying to steal their personal and financial information.Scammers posing as “support” from food delivery services are contacting delivery drivers and restaurants and trying to steal their personal and financial information.
In one scenario, the scammer tells delivery drivers and restaurants they’re sending a free tablet or printer to handle food delivery orders. To do that, they say, they need to “verify” your phone number, email and login, Social Security number and bank account to send the equipment.
In another scenario, the scammer says they need the driver’s email or bank account because there’s a problem with an order, or they want to refund them money from a canceled order. After getting the driver or restaurant owner’s email, the scammer may ask for an email verification code...which you never want to share.
If you get requests like this, no matter where you work: Stop. Here’s how to avoid the scams.
- Don’t give your personal or financial information to someone who unexpectedly calls, texts, or emails you. They may be trying to steal from you.
- If you think the request is legitimate, contact the business directly. But use a phone number you know is real or a website or app you found yourself.
- Never share an email verification code with someone if you didn’t contact them first. Scammers are after your information and money. Sharing verification codes makes it easier for them to pretend to be you. Once they’re “you,” they have access to your accounts and can take your money.
Find out what to do if you paid a scammer or gave a scammer your personal information.
And if you spot these scams, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. When you report a scam, you help the FTC and other law enforcement agencies stop scams.
OC Waste and Recycling
Are you an Orange County resident trying to dispose of bulky items like old refrigerators and appliances but not sure how? Start by checking with your local waste hauler. Many haulers offer free bulky item pickups. For information on local haulers and recycling coordinators visit OCLandfills.com/quick-links.
⏰Time for yardwork? OC Waste and Recycling offers free compost and mulch by appointment to OC residents! Schedule a pick up appointment in Irvine or San Juan Capistrano (free compost coming to Brea soon).
🌱Capistrano Greenery in San Juan Capistrano is expanding its hours - compost is now available six days a week, Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment.
🌱Free compost is also available at the Bee Canyon Greenery in Irvine, Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. by appointment.
For more information on Capistrano Greenery in San Juan Capistrano, Bee Canyon Greenery in Irvine and Valencia Greenery in Brea, along with details on small and large quantities of compost, visit OCLandfills.com/compost.
From the Anti-Defamation League
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Annual Audit of Antisemitism 2022 Each year, ADL tracks incidents of antisemitic harassment, vandalism, and assault in the US. 2023 data shows alarming increases across the board.
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Hate in the Golden State Over the past two years, California has dealt with a significant increase in extremist activity driven by a variety of factors. This report will explore the range of extremist groups and movements operating in California and highlight the key extremist and antisemitic trends and incidents in the state throughout 2021 and 2022. It also includes especially noteworthy events and incidents from 2023.
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ADL and GLAAD Report: Anti-LGBTQ+ Hate and Extremism Incidents, 2022-2023 Between June 2022 and April 2023, ADL and GLAAD documented at least 356 anti-LGBTQ+ extremist and non-extremist incidents motivated by hate across the United States. Incidents about anti-LGBTQ+ hate and extremism are an important part of a larger story about the heightened threats facing the LGBTQ+ community in the US today.
OC Parks is Hiring!
OC Parks Ranger
Park Rangers play an important role in protecting Orange County’s 60,000 acres of parks, open space and beaches. They work hard to keep parks safe, clean and enjoyable for 15 million visitors each year. Learn more here.
OC Parks Rangers are sworn peace officers and perform a wide variety of duties at different types of facilities, including regional and wilderness parks, camping parks and beaches. Candidates will be required to participate in a written test, oral interviews and a comprehensive background investigation that includes medical and physiological examinations. Successful candidates will join a high performing team that serves our communities seven days a week.
OC Parks Maintenance Workers
The Park Maintenance Worker I position performs routine unskilled and semiskilled grounds maintenance, landscape, and facility maintenance, along with repair work.
United Ukrainian Ballet Co Brings “Giselle” to Segerstrom Center for the Arts
I recently attended the United Ukrainian Ballet Company’s performance of “Giselle” at our very own Segerstrom Center for the Arts. As a former ballerina, I truly enjoyed the passionate performances of the company comprised of refugee dancers from all over Ukraine. If you missed the performance while it was here in Costa Mesa or would like to learn more about the artists behind it, I encourage you to listen to Claudia Shambaugh’s KUCI podcast interview with Alexis Tutunnique and Elizaveta Gogidze, both principal dancers with the United Ukrainian Ballet Company. Listen here!
Mesmerica - OC Planetarium Show
A local production company based out of Orange County, Mesmerica, is currently hosting a show at the OCC Planetarium! Stop by for a chance to view the extremely relaxing 3D art and family show. Check out the following link to get 15% off tickets to the show!
The Sounds of Summer
Keep your eyes peeled for our booth at concerts in the park across the district this summer!
Our first Symphony on the Go! summer concert drew a fabulous crowd to Rancho Mission Viejo! Beautiful music is one of life’s great joys, now freely accessible to Orange County residents all summer. For more info: https://www.pacificsymphony.org/SOTG
BenefitsCal
Last month, Orange County officially switched over to a new benefits enrollment portal called BenefitsCal. This new website replaces the former portal, MyBenefitsCalWIN, as a new simple way for our residents to apply for, view and renew benefits for health coverage, food and cash assistance. Households interested in applying for benefits assistance can now create an account at www.BenefitsCal.com and submit their application or link their old MyBenefitsCalWIN case to their account. For more information about BenefitsCal, including new features and capabilities, click here.
Explore the Ocean from the Water!
Join the Ocean Institute for a 2-hour interactive kayak tour around the Dana Point harbor. Learn about the history of the harbor and its unique ecosystem from expert Naturalists. All experience levels are welcome!
Must be at least 3 years old to participate. Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Learn more here.
Orange County Resources
UPDATED LINK: Alert OC
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 this link!
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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