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Volume 3 | Issue 41 |
October 13, 2023 |
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Dear neighbor:
I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve as your County Supervisor for the Fabulous Fifth District.
Last weekend, I spoke at the opening ceremony of the OC Fire Authority’s Girls Empowerment Camp. The program guides 50 girls and young women through a two-day camp designed to create pathways into the fire service. I look forward to watching these young women pursue noble careers in public safety.
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After OCFA, I joined Mayor John Stephens at the 14th annual Project Independence Walk in TeWinkle Park! In the last 45 years, Project Independence helped more than 750 people throughout Orange County build lives of true independence, even when challenged with developmental disabilities.
As I was walking in, a big tree branch fell, but luckily our Costa Mesa Firefighters secured the perimeter.
Mayor Stephens and I then stopped by the Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue Annual Open house. I loved seeing our local students pursuing firefighter careers and visiting with community volunteers and residents who I have helped in the past. I shared about my work around the spike on fire insurance and my continuous support to our first responders. Lieutenant Bradbury and I wore pink to highlight Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Saturday evening, I attended the Crystal Cove Conservancy Soiree. While surrounded by the beautiful landscape of Pelican Point, I joined friends and colleagues in support of a great cause - expanding their educational STEM programs. I am currently working with the conservancy to launch a new STEM education program with our office.
Thank you Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris for securing more than $30 million to restore the Crystal Cove Cottages. To learn more about Crystal Cove Conservancy's mission and events, visit crystalcove.org.
On Monday, I attended the OC Transportation Authority (OCTA) Board Meeting, where the Board received updates and financial forecasts. The future looks bright. Read the full recap here.
On Tuesday I joined the Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) State of the Schools. Congratulations to NMUSD on a 97% graduation rate. As a former NMUSD Board Member, I loved learning about the CTE robotics, hearing music from the amazing jazz band and choir, and supporting our ASB students.
(Top Left) - NMUSD Truste Michelle Murphy, Ali Monge, NMUSD Trustee Carol Crane, and JWA Airport Arts Commissioner MC Sungaila.
From there, I joined the Board of Supervisors and the OC Health Care Agency (HCA) to launch the Fentanyl is Forever campaign. Fentanyl outpaces other causes of death amongst our Orange County youth, with too many families in our community losing loved ones too soon. Watch our announcement here.
For years I’ve joined law enforcement in the fight against fentanyl poisoning. As a mom and an elected official, I’m committed to end illicit fentanyl trafficking, which continues to kill our children. For more information, please visit www.fentanylisforeveroc.org.
Join me along with Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, NMUSD School Trustee Carol Crane, OC Health Care Agency, the City of Costa Mesa, Newport Mesa School District, Costa Mesa PD, Costa Mesa Fire and the Coast Colleges for a forum on the increase of opioid misuse and the rise of fentanyl overdose deaths, on October 24, 2023 at the Coast Community College District Board Room, at 6:30 p.m.
In the evening, I joined more than a thousand attendees in support of the, “Gathering for Israel,” vigil hosted by Merage Jewish Community Center. Israel has a right to defend itself and the deliberate murder, rape & kidnapping of civilians, including children, is inexcusable. We stand against anti-Jewish hate & violence. Terrorist organizations such as Hamas must never be allowed to flourish. In responding to terror, I hope that all parties involved will adhere to the tenants of international humanitarian law.
Orange County’s 2022 Annual Hate Crime report, which was just released on September 21, 2023, shows a 94% increase in hate activity compared to five years ago. I firmly believe that we must not dehumanize the loss of life to justify further violence and hate against innocent people.
Check out these helpful resources for American citizens in Israel and information from Representative Mike Levin about monitoring the unfolding situation in Israel here. For our OC residents with family and friends in Israel who want to contribute, consider a donation in any amount to NA’AMAT USA. For more information, please visit www.naamat.org.
We also received the following update from the OC Sheriff’s Department about community concerns related to the war in Israel.
On Wednesday morning I hosted my monthly meeting with the mayors of District 5. In light of the Board’s efforts to increase public awareness on the dangers of Fentanyl, we hosted a Nalaxone training and provided them with the lifesaving spray during this meeting.
Then I attended the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce Economic Forecast, where I presented a $100,000 grant to support workforce development programs. During the forecast, we learned that we now have 5 million more jobs in the economy, which exceeds pre-COVID levels. We also learned that in coastal California, people need an average of 11 times the median income to afford the median priced home. I remain dedicated to fostering economic growth and creating pathways to homeownership for our middle class.
On Thursday morning, I attended the TCA Joint Meeting of the Board of Directors where we reviewed a traffic analysis for the SR-73. We discussed plans to address traffic issues on the corridor, and I successfully advocated for studying a rapid transit connector. I look forward to working with residents, TCA, and all local transportation agencies on reducing congestion in the Fifth District.
Later during my meeting with CalOptima Health, I met with CalOptima Health’s Executive Director of Medi-Cal and CalAIM, Kelly Bruno-Nelson. We discussed CalOptima’s street medicine program, its success, challenges and viability for this program in D5. As I continue my work around homelessness and affordable housing, we need programs like “Street Medicine” to move us forward. If you want to learn more about the program, please read more.
In my meeting with Girl Scouts of OC CEO Vikki Shepp and Boardmember Todd Priest, and learned about all of the great work Girls Scouts does to support skill building and confidence for young women. During their cookie down time - Girl Scouts learn about E-Commerce by selling tasty treats like Peanutbutter Penguins and Chocolate Covered Almonds!
On Thursday night I joined the Costa Mesa City Council including SOY alum Manuel Chavez at Save Our Youth’s (SOY) open house and community celebration. Their mission is to provide a safe and welcoming space for teens to grow, develop, and achieve their dreams. My $5,000 after school grant supports music, arts, science, and college prep. Learn more about SOY here: save-our-youth.org
That’s it for this week! I invite you to join me for these upcoming events across the Fabulous Fifth hosted by my office:
Registration is still open for our annual Senior Summit, on October 27, 2023 co-hosted by CalOptima! From 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., join us at Soka University for a resource fair, technology workshops, Giveaways, Memory Care Resources, Caregiver Support and CalOptima enrollment. Sign up here: tinyurl.com/KFSeniorSummit or by calling my office at (714) 834-3550.
Next week, I hope to see you at the next Wellness Wednesdays Walk with OC Parks on October 18, at the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve at 9 AM.
Finally, the deadline for my Veterans of the Year nominations is approaching! This year’s theme, “The Call to Serve: Recognizing the Roles Musicians & Buglers Play in the Military” honors veterans, reservists and active-duty service-members who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in selflessly contributing to our community as patriots. Submit your nominations by October 27, 2023 at 5 p.m.
Be well,
Katrina Foley Supervisor County of Orange
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In This Edition
Read more about local events, community and health news, District and County initiatives, and other important updates!
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Adam Tallabas
District Representative / Policy Analyst
Malo lava (hello) District 5! I started this week by attending the Newport Mesa Unified School District State of the Schools with our team. Meeting so many bright students gives me hope for the next generation of doctors, engineers, mayors, mechanics, and more. Wednesday, I attended the Aliso Viejo State of the City. There, we received updates on new construction, programming, and what to look forward to in the future of Aliso Viejo. On Thursday, I attended the ribbon cutting for the new Laguna Beach business, i2iOptometry! Their comprehensive treatments will meet the optical needs of our residents. This weekend, catch our District Team on Saturday at the Irvine Global Village Festival at the Great Park from 10 AM – 6 PM, the San Clemente Veteran Expo from 2PM – 6 PM, and the Ladera Ranch Farmers Market on Sunday from 10 AM to 1 PM.
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Jonathan Davis
Policy Advisor
As a public servant, I spend each day considering the needs and views of my neighbors in Orange County, working to transform those ideas into public policy at our county government. At our Board of Supervisors meeting next Tuesday October 17, the board will approve a new federal lobbyist that will represent Orange County before members of congress and federal agencies. While this may sound like insider baseball, whoever is picked will become a major partner for our county and make sure our voices are heard in the halls of congress. That representation will, in part, make a difference in whether Orange County receives its fair share of federal funding, and whether federal policy reflects the unique needs and perspectives of our community. I spent the week pouring over the proposals for each of our candidates, briefing the Supervisor, and remarking on my own experiences working with lobbyists as a former staffer in California’s State Senate. Whichever firm the Board selects, I look forward to working with them on delivering for the Fifth District.
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Rachel Carr
Policy Intern
At the most recent Orange County Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council (OCJJCC), the CEO’s office confirmed a $3.5 million surplus available to the OCJJCC board--- fantastic news that will help further fund community-based organizations and address service gaps for local, system-involved youth. I look forward to collaborating with the Supervisor to establish sustainable, life-changing plans to effectively utilize this funding and reduce youth-recidivism in Orange County.
This week I analyzed the Transportation Corridor Agencies Fiscal Year 2024 Capital Improvement Plan. The report reviews strategic plans to effectively mitigate predicted traffic increases throughout Orange County. I always enjoy learning about the future of our transportation system in Orange County, and what can be done to make getting around a pleasant and enjoyable experience. My week wrapped up at the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, with a ribbon cutting welcoming Owen Smart Video to Orange County. It was a great to meet our local business leaders, chamber members, and elected officials. Welcome to the district, Owen Smart Video!
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Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
At the Orange County Sustainability Decathalon (OCSD), my new friends from Virginia Tech who taught me all about their #HOUSE project featuring LiveRoof, a green roof that naturally reduces noise, increases indoor air quality, and purifies stormwater runoff. Check it out this weekend!
On Tuesday evening, I provided the Laguna Beach City Council with updates on the Supervisor’s priorities in their city. As my relationship with this beautiful city and its residents grows, I look forward to growing my district representative skills, too.
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Dana Point Harbor Advisory Committee Report from Secretary Dennis Parks
The third installment of the DPHOAC committee was held on Wednesday, October 4th. The meeting primarily consisted of entities, currently involved in the Dana Point Harbor, presenting background information to the committee that will be useful in future discussions regarding the re-development of the harbor. Read more.
Health News
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know that nearly 300,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year? This month, educate yourself and your loved ones about the importance of regular health screenings.
HIV/AIDS Awareness Month
Through the Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative, the Department of Health and Human Services set an ambitious goal of reducing all new HIV infections in the U.S. by 90% by 2030! To support this goal, HHS provided multiple funding opportunities to jurisdictions, including continued investments in STD specialty clinics.
From the OC Health Care Agency
With COVID-19 continuing to affect the community, preventive measures and mitigation strategies are strongly recommended. Vaccines and testing also continue to play an important role. Read more here.
Nominate a Veteran for the Fifth District Veterans of the Year Awards
I’m happy to announce that this year, I will hold my third annual Veterans of the Year Awards! I look forward to honoring the Veterans of District Five on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 6:00pm. at the Dana Point Women's Center!
This year’s theme “The Call to Serve: Recognizing the Roles Musicians & Buglers Play in the Military” aims to honor veterans, reservists and active-duty service-members who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in selflessly contributing to our military through music.
I invite members of the public to submit nominations of veterans. Nominees should reside in or have significantly contributed to the Fifth District and are eligible if they have served in the U.S. military on active duty or reserves for any length of time, at any location. Submit nominations here: bit.ly/2023KFVOTY.
The deadline to submit nominations for Fifth District Veterans of the Year is Friday, October 27, 2023 at 5:00pm.
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.
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Jasper!
Meet Jasper! This happy two-year-old wants nothing more than his own forever home. Jasper was found wandering around a dog park alone. He's a wonderful companion who adores people of all ages, and gets along with other pets! Although he was adopted soon after coming to our shelter, he was returned when his previous owner discovered his ability to jump tall fences.
Behind that charming smile, Jasper is ready to embark on a new journey in his life. With his knack for jumping high, Jasper is seeking a home where he can either strut his stuff indoors or have a watchful eye during outdoor playtime. His enthusiasm for life is infectious, and he's ready to leap into the hearts of a loving family. If you're ready to make Jasper a part of your family, please contact OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID A1825216.
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!
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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Thank you for being an active member of our County.
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