Alyssa Napuri
Deputy Chief of Staff
Another productive week in District 5. Monday night I represented the Supervisor at American Legion Auxiliary South OC Unit 281’s celebration for the unit’s Girls State Delegates. We celebrated young women from Aliso Niguel, Capistrano Valley, Dana Hills, JSerra Catholic, San Clemente, San Juan Hills, St. Margaret’s Episcopal, and Tesoro High Schools. These delegates represented their schools at the annual Girls State conference, and provided updates on how their conference experience shaped their perspective on public service.
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And no week is more fun than a week spent in San Juan Capistrano. The San Juan Chamber hosted the SJC State of the City on Thursday. Rotarian and Mayor Howard Hart provided an update on the work San Juan has done this past year to honor the city’s equestrian heritage, protect open space, and invest in permanent supportive housing for veterans and infrastructure improvements.
Adam Tallabas
District Representative / Policy Analyst
Howdy, District 5! This past weekend, I represented our office at the Dana Point Maritime Festival and spoke to many of our wonderful South County constituents. I continued work on our Veterans of the Year event, which takes place on November 9, 2023. The theme for this year’s event is “The Call to Serve: Recognizing the Roles Musicians & Buglers Play in the Military”. The event aims to honor those veterans, reservists and active duty service-members who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in selflessly contributing to our community through music. Submissions open soon so think about who you want to nominate – stay tuned for the link next week!
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Jonathan Davis
Policy Advisor
Hello Fifth District! This week, I spent most of my time preparing Supervisor Foley for our Board Meetings. In our office, I serve as the primary staffer responsible for briefing the supervisor on upcoming board meetings, ensuring that materials are in order, coordinating assignments for staff in our office, and analyzing a range of items that fall within my issue portfolio. On Tuesday September 12, 2023, the board approved several consequential items, including responses to Grand Jury Reports on fentanyl and human sex trafficking, millions in grant funding awards, and the latest iteration of Orange County’s Housing Element. I was involved in some fashion for each item on our agenda, whether it be directly analyzing and providing recommendations to the supervisor or working with policy staff in our office to ensure that goals and priorities are understood across the team, as well as the Supervisor’s questions researched and answered.
Our next Board of Supervisors Meeting will take place on Tuesday September 26, 2023. The agenda for that meeting was released on Wednesday this week, one day after the conclusion of our first meeting for September. I continue to work towards getting our office and Supervisor Foley prepared to represent the interests of the Fifth District at the meeting. Tune in to watch by clicking here!
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Kimberlee Belli
Office Manager / District Representative
Greetings! This week we had a very successful Coffee and Conversation with Supervisor Katrina Foley, hosted by the beautiful Balboa Island Museum. We met many new and familiar constituents from the area. As a reminder, Supervisor Foley hosts these coffees once a month in a different City. She gives an update on District 5, County of Orange and then takes questions and concerns from the attendees.
We began preparations for our 15th Annual Coats for Kids Coat Drive beginning Monday, November 20, 2023 – Friday, December 15, 2023. We will distribute collection boxes at local libraries, parks, City Halls, Senior Centers and our building lobby. This year we expand our partnership to include the Dana Point Women’s Club Adopt a Family program as well as continue our long time partnerships with Boys & Girls Club and Save Our Youth (SOY). Stay tuned, as the event gets closer we will share locations in our newsletter. Email me at Kimberlee@ocgov.com if you want to help. SAVE THE DATE for the County Board of Supervisors Holiday Open House on December 12 from 1-4pm. Enjoy the weekend!
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Rachel Carr
Policy Intern
Greetings, District 5! On Thursday morning, I spoke at Good Morning Corona Del Mar, featuring City Council Representative and Vice Chair of the Newport Beach Aviation Committee, Lauren Kleiman. Updates on Newport Beach Aviation Committee Goals and initiatives were shared, in addition to local legislative updates from our office and Congresswoman Katie Porter’s office. The FAA continues to accept input for their upcoming Noise Policy Review; our office urges affected residents to make their voices heard on the FAA website here before public input closes in roughly two weeks on September 29, 2023. Later, I attended the Orange County Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council, where nonprofit organizations presented their annual reviews to inform the board of current programs offered to our most venerable youth populations. The goals of these community-based organizations are to prevent future offenses from occurring.
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Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Happy Friday, District 5! This week, our team welcomed two Fall interns: Sanah and Nathan! These two UCI Political Science students brighten our office, and I look forward to engaging with you by their sides at upcoming events in your community. If you or someone you know shows interest in Policy, Communications or government work, please consider applying for an internship with our office. To apply, please submit a one-page resume and writing sample to Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com & cc Adam.Tallabas@ocgov.com. Tomorrow, check out the Love and Listen Youth Mental Health Fair happening from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church in Newport Beach. Stop by and say hi at our booth!
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Nathan Bui
Communications Intern
Hi, District 5! I’m Nathan Bui, a Political Science major attending UC Irvine in the Fall. I have the honor of supporting community affairs in the City of Irvine! I finished the first week of many as the new Communications intern. I look forward to learning more about public service and communications strategy from my fellow interns and colleagues.
On Wednesday, I attended the Coffee and Conversations with Katrina at the Balboa Island Museum. There, I learned about the rich history of the Island and spoke with community members with freshly baked donuts and freshly brewed coffee in hand! To learn more about how you can support the Balboa Island Museum, consider subscribing to their newsletter at About The Museum – Balboa Island Museum or attend their biggest annual fundraiser, Denim & Diamonds on Friday, November 17!
I’m wishing you all a restful September weekend!
Health News
From the OC Health Care Agency
Following the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulatory action this week on updated 2023-2024 mRNA COVID-19 vaccinations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) endorsed recommendations for the use of updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. The new season’s COVID-19 vaccine is more closely matched to the strains of virus circulating now and for those expected though winter. The new recommendations also further simplify the vaccination schedule for most individuals.
According to the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), recommendations for the updated 2023-2024 vaccines are supported by available safety and efficacy data. The revised recommendations include the following:
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Individuals 5 years of age and older regardless of previous vaccination are eligible to receive a single dose of an updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months since the last dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.
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Individuals 6 months through 4 years of age who have previously been vaccinated against COVID-19 are eligible to receive one or two doses of an updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccine (timing and number of doses to administer depends on the previous COVID-19 vaccine received).
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Unvaccinated individuals 6 months through 4 years of age are eligible to receive three doses of the updated authorized Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine or two doses of the updated authorized Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine.
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Providers should review CDC Interim Clinical Considerations for the Use of COVID-19 Vaccines Currently Authorized in the United States when they are updated for the specific scenarios, including vaccinating immunocompromised individuals.
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The bivalent Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines are no longer authorized for use in the United States. Bivalent Novavax vaccine remains authorized for use for those 12 years and older and may still be administered if it is determined that the individual should not wait for a 2023-2024 Novavax COVID-19 vaccine or receive a 2023-2024 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.
Since the expiration of the COVID-19 emergency the purchase and distribution of vaccine has transitioned to the commercial marketplace. Federal rules require insurers to cover the updated 2023-2024 COVID vaccine as soon as it is available and at no cost to the patient. The following is guidance depending on your circumstance on finding out where vaccine is available:
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Health care providers including pharmacies can order vaccine directly from the manufacturers.
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Patients with insurance should reach out to their usual provider or pharmacy to find out if or when they will have the updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines available.
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The federal Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program which provides vaccines to children who are served by Medicaid or are under or uninsured will be supplying updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines to these children. Parents should reach out to their child’s provider to find out the timing of availability.
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For uninsured and underinsured adults, the CDC has created the Bridge Access Program (BAP) so that uninsured people will continue to have access to no-cost vaccine. BAP vaccine will be available through the HCA, federally supported health centers (FQHC’s), as well as commercial pharmacies that have contracted to participate. Currently, this includes all CVS and Walgreens pharmacies, but additional pharmacies are expected to join.
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The www.Vaccines.gov website is expected to be updated with COVID-19 vaccine availability as the vaccine is distributed to pharmacies and clinics.
COVID-19 continues to be a risk for many people. Currently, the county is experiencing an increase in reports of cases, with an increase in the proportion of people testing positive for COVID-19. Hospitalizations for COVID-19 have increased since July, although remain at low levels compared to past waves of COVID-19 disease. The HCA strongly encourages individuals to get the updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine as available data continues to demonstrate that vaccines prevent the most serious outcomes of COVID-19 such as severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
The HCA will continue to update guidance in cooperation with state and federal partners. In order to ensure Orange County residents have the information needed, the HCA responds to community inquiries through the Agency’s Health Referral Line at 1-800-564-8448, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on COVID-19 including resources, case counts, vaccination, and testing in Orange County, visit ochealthinfo.com/covid.
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.
Orange County Housing Authority Opens Their Waiting List for the Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Orange County Board of Supervisors is excited to announce that Orange County Housing Authority (OCHA) will be opening the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) waiting list and accepting applications beginning September 18, 2023, 8:00 a.m. PDT and ending September 29, 2023, 11:59 p.m. PDT.
For thousands of people and families who have been waiting to apply for rental assistance, this comes as a welcome relief. With a housing voucher, individuals and families can choose their own housing that meet their needs, including single-family homes, townhomes and apartments.
After the application period closes, OCHA will give preference to applicants who live or work within OCHA’s jurisdiction and in the order listed to applicants who are U.S. Veterans; Elderly, Disabled or Working Families; and Non-Working Families. OCHA will group the applications by preference, apply the random placement within the preference group, and select the first 12,000 applicants by preference to be placed on the waiting list. The waiting list will be limited to 12,000 applicants.
Applications for the waiting list will be accepted online at https://www.waitlistcheck.com/CA1288, emailed to OCHA.WaitingList2023@occr.ocgov.com, or mailed to P.O. Box 11387, Santa Ana, CA 92711.
Paper applications and in-person assistance are also available at designated locations across Orange County, including all Orange County Public Libraries, the County Services Center (CAS), participating City Halls and select community nonprofit partners/community organizations. Submitted applications are not considered on a first come, first served basis, and timing of the application submittal has no bearing on waiting list position or how soon an applicant may receive assistance.
For more information on how to apply, please visit www.ochousing.org or call OCHA at 714-480-2798.
OCTA Free Hikes & Equestrian Rides
Orange County is home to some of the most beautiful protected wilderness areas in the country. Experience and enjoy the natural landscape with OCTA's free docent-led hikes and equestrian rides!
Lace up your hiking shoes or saddle up your horse, and sign up for a free hike or equestrian ride today. Come see Orange County as it was yesterday, and as it will be tomorrow.
OC Animal Care
Enjoy free admission live music at Newport Dunes, tonight through Sunday from 5 - 8 p.m. Bring your float or beach chairs to listen to DJ Turntables, Kelly Boyz Band, and Cubensis!
For more information, visit this link.
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, Quade!
Meet Quade, the four-year-old Siberian Husky who's patiently waiting for a forever home! Quade is a shy and incredibly loyal dog who's been dreaming of finding stability and structure in his life.
This handsome Husky is looking for an experienced owner who can keep up with his active lifestyle. He loves long walks, adventures, and the great outdoors. With the right person by his side, Quade's confidence will shine brighter every day.
He's ready to settle down with someone who understands him and can offer the love and support he needs. If you're up for the challenge and ready to provide Quade with a loving home, then you're his perfect match! Please call (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID A1822119.
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
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.
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.
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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