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| Volume 4 | Issue 33 |
August 16, 2024 |
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Important Update on County of Orange Lawsuit:
The lawsuit filed by the County of Orange highlights rampant abuse of taxpayer funds to enrich well-connected insiders instead of feeding vulnerable seniors in the Vietnamese community or honoring our Vietnam War Veterans. While the County of Orange moves through civil proceedings to recover the funds, I continue to urge County, State, and Federal officials to investigate the improper use of funds from VAS and its principals and encourage law enforcement bring forward the appropriate criminal charges.
Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Dear Neighbor,
Happy Friday. We enjoyed another eventful and productive week in the Fabulous Fifth District!
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On Saturday, I joined Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie Norris, Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens, City Council, School Board members, and community leaders at the new Share Ourselves site next door to Rea Elementary school to celebrate the opening of their newly renovated clinic in my hometown of Costa Mesa. Share Ourselves provides comprehensive health services to children and families in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District and addresses a local need for accessible healthcare. When we invest in comprehensive health services for our neighbors, we invest in a happier Orange County for all.
On Monday, I attended the Orange County Transportation Authority Board Meeting, where we approved purchase of OCTA’s future headquarters location property, projected to save taxpayers approximately $50 million over 30 years. The Board also received an update on efforts to improve transportation routes in south Orange County as travel patterns grow and evolve. Projects include: a non-tolled extension of Los Patrones Parkway, widening a portion of Ortega Highway, and a southerly extension of the Interstate 5 high-occupancy vehicle lanes. My close communication with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and our County team ensures these projects remain on schedule. The Board also received an update on the Interstate 5 Improvement Project between State Route 73 and El Toro Road. Finally, I proposed the creation of an Air Taxi Task Force, to better understand how we can offset some of our other challenges in meeting the goals of the project with a rise in air taxiing.
I also welcomed our new Policy Fellow, Ali Menninger, and District Fellow, Noa Tuliau, to the office! Read more about these two new team members in my Staff Updates below.
 At Tuesday’s Board of Supervisor’s meeting, the Board began by recognizing this month as Eligibility Professionals Month. These public servants play a vital role in helping seniors navigate Medi-Cal, keeping families housed, connecting Veterans to service benefits, and caring for our County’s youth. I remain grateful for our County’s Eligibility Professionals from OC Social Services Agency, OC Health Care Agency, Orange County Community Resources, and Veterans Services.
 The Board of Supervisors also proclaimed this August as Chicano Heritage Month. District 5 is proudly home to several Chicano communities – including Shalimar in Costa Mesa, Capistrano Villas in San Juan Capistrano, Via Lomas in Laguna Hills and Villa Iglesia in Aliso Viejo – among others. The Fifth District is also home to several elected leaders who continue leading the way in providing important representation for Chicanos in Orange County, including Costa Mesa City Council Members Manuel Chavez, Arlis Reynolds and Loren Gameros and San Juan Capistrano Mayor Sergio Farias. My office remains committed to honoring and uplifting the contributions and presence of Chicano communities in Orange County. Special thanks to Hon. Judge Frederick Aguirre and the Mendez family for joining us in recognizing Orange County’s Chicano legacy.
During the Board meeting, we voted to approve support for additional investments in 186 critical affordable housing units in San Clemente for another 55 years, allowing our residents access to better-quality affordable housing.
Later, the Board approved the 2024 inductees into Orange County Hall of Fame. The Orange County Hall of Fame aims to recognize and honor outstanding individuals who significantly contributed to Orange County’s rich cultural, societal, and professional landscape with ten honorees inducted into the Hall of Fame every year. I nominated Vietnam Combat Veteran Nick Berardino and Wing Lam and the Lee Family.
Wing Lam and the Lee Family co-founded Wahoo’s Fish Tacos in 1988, after immigrating from China to Brazil, and finally to the U.S. Their first location opened in my hometown of Costa Mesa and became known for its unique tacos that reflect their heritage of China, Brazil, and Baja Mexico. Most importantly, this family gives back generously to the community.
Nick Berardino is a hero in his own right. A Vietnam Combat Veteran who served in the Marines, the retired longtime General Manager of Orange County Employees Association (OCEA), creator of Heroes Hall Veterans Museum, founder of and the leader of Veterans Alliance of Orange County (VALOR) who established an Veterans Cemetery in Orange County.
I look forward to the Hall of Fame reflecting the diversity of our many unique communities throughout Orange County.
These inductees set an important example for engaged and involved leadership in our community.
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The 2024 Orange County Hall of Fame Class:
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Leo Fender (Music, Arts, & Entertainment)
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Wing Lam and the Lee Family (Business)
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Michelle Pfeiffer (Music, Arts, & Entertainment)
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William Steiner (Philanthropy)
Finally, the Board voted unanimously in favor of adopting a resolution requesting the Insurance Commissioner, State Legislature and Governor declare a state of emergency and take immediate regulatory and legislative action on the disproportionate fire insurance rates faced by members of our community. This resolution will strengthen and stabilize California’s marketplace for homeowner’s insurance and commercial property insurance. I remain committed to advocating on behalf of Orange County families and businesses to the California Insurance Commissioner about these issues and I fully support the resolution.
 Wednesday began and ended with meetings. I first met with Dr. Richard Van Etten, Christopher Leo, Jennifer Sarrail, and Angelique Andrulaitis from the UCI Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, the singular National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center in Orange County. In 2017 the UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge launched to raise awareness for critical cancer research. This year’s challenge is set for October 5, 2024. Learn more information at www.anti-cancerchallenge.org/
 Orange In June, the Orange County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a Master Services Agreement (MSA) with Mind OC to allow Be Well OC to expand its provision of a wide range of critical and comprehensive mental health and substance-use disorder services to Orange County residents in collaboration with private, non-profit and public organizations including OC Health Care Agency’s (HCA) Behavioral Health System and CalOptima Health.
Next, I held a meeting with Nisreen Malhis and Dave Rice from the UN Association. We discussed the sustainability dashboard and their state-of-the-art emergency alert system based at UC San Diego, Alert California. This program aims at providing improved situational awareness for first responders, and preventing disasters before they start.
 In my next meeting, Newport Beach Councilwoman Lauren Kleiman and I discussed the need for a regional public facing dashboard of shelter beds and permanent supportive housing and next steps toward implementation of SB43, amongst other topics.
 I then held my monthly meeting with John Wayne Airport Director Charlene Reynolds, joined by Bryan Bernhard from Archer Aviation, in which we discussed Archer Aviation’s new eVTOL “air taxi” aircraft. I recently announced the formation of an Air Taxi Task Force, which will bring together representatives from the community, John Wayne Airport, our General Aviation partners, and representatives from the eVTOL industry to ensure that any air taxi service that seeks to come to John Wayne Airport in safe and protects the integrity of our neighborhoods.
  Photo provided by Archer Aviation
Our Costa Mesa Skate Park renovation remains a personal passion of mine. I met with Costa Mesa Skate Park skaters Karena Gibbs, Jim Gray and Marty Jimenez to discuss their feedback on the Skate Park Expansion plans. My priority remains to expand the park with the locals in mind.
I wrapped up my Wednesday with a site visit to the Aliso Creek Estuary in Laguna Beach, where the Laguna Ocean Foundation presented an overview of their efforts to restore the estuary to a healthy, functional ecosystem. Learning about their restoration project was beneficial for understanding how our office can support the proposed plan.
I began Thursday meeting with design consultants and the City of Costa Mesa regarding further updates of the Costa Mesa Skate Park Expansion project. I’m excited about the plans.
Next, I met with the Spent Fuel Solutions Executive Board, where I serve as co-Chair, for updates on the relocation of spent nuclear fuel to a federally licensed facility away from our precious coastlines. Working with our Congressman Mike Levin, we will continue pushing the Federal government to take action.
Last night I attended the annual Raise a Glass charitable event for Orange County Bar Association (OCBA) where we recognized the Honorable Kirk H. Nakamura and the law firm Fragomen, Del Ray, Bersen, & Loewy LLP for their contributions to the legal community.
 Today, my office hosted the first meeting of my Young Supervisor’s Program! We selected a cohort of high school and college students from across the Fifth District to explore their interest in public policy and civic engagement. At our first meeting, students participated in several seminars covering topics such as the role of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, Orange County’s Climate Action Plan and my other sustainability initiatives, and a discussion on housing and homelessness.
Over the next 9 months, our Young Supervisors will learn about the role of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, meet local elected officials, businesses, and community leaders, and build professional relationships for their academic careers and beyond. I look forward to supporting this next generation of leaders in Orange County!
  Tonight, I am joining our Orange County Labor Federation Solidarity Awards. I congratulate:
Be well and wear your sunscreen out and about this weekend,
 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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Staff Updates
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
Happy Friday District 5! In my second week on the job, I supported Supervisor Foley at the Board of Supervisors Meeting, where she spoke about affordable housing, fire risks and the lack of homeowners insurance, and the 2024 Hall of Fame honorees, among other topics. I look forward to leading the preparation work with our team for the next Board meeting on August 27, 2024.
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Happy Friday!
Howdy, District 5! This week I onboarded our two new fellows, Noa and Ali. I look forward to working with them and seeing them serve the residents of the Fifth District.
On Wednesday, I joined Morgan at the 25th Anniversary celebration for Amber’s Cantina in Laguna Niguel. Amber’s remains a local staple and maintains the same team from their opening in 1998! I enjoy supporting small business, especially local cornerstone restaurants, as they form the backbone of Orange County’s local economy.
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As Supervisor Foley’s representative for the City of Costa Mesa, I joined meetings regarding the upcoming Skate Park Expansion Project – which will transform Costa Mesa Skate Park and bring new amenities to the community.
My duties include initiatives regarding OC Animal Care, like our shelters’ current partnership with Clear the Shelters! This nationwide pet adoption campaign waives adoption fees for dogs at least 25 lbs, and offers a 2-for-1 deal for cats and kittens’ adoption fees. Check out this ongoing program from now through September 10, 2024!
Tyler Mosher
District Representative & Policy Analyst
This week, I prepared our office for the first meeting of Supervisor Foley’s Young Supervisors Program! Along with the Supervisor and our Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa, I coordinate the Young Supervisors Program this year. I look forward to planning the next seven sessions of our program. On September 26, 2024, our cohort of Young Supervisors joins us on a tour of some of our County Departments.
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
Another fantastic week in District 5!
In my second week in the office, I enjoyed connecting with residents in my designated cities and engaging with our vibrant community. Joining the Supervisor’s Wellness Walk led by the Crystal Cove Conservancy stands out as an especially insightful opportunity for learning first-hand about our District and its residents. Participants appreciated the chance for conversing with Supervisor Foley in a relaxed atmosphere while strolling along the beach and discovering the history and restoration of the Crystal Cove Historic District.
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 I look forward to further interactions with the wonderful residents of District 5. Here’s to another week of dedicated service!
Rachel Carr
Policy Intern
Happy Friday, District Five:
Today, I bid farewell to Team Foley as I head north in pursuit of a B.A. in Economics and Political Science at UC Berkeley! While this moment feels bittersweet, I cherish the profound impact my two years in this office had in shaping both my personal and educational journeys.
As I begin this next chapter, I carry the lessons learned from Team Foley with me. I’m eager to see where this journey leads.
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Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Happy Friday, Fabulous Fifth!
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Christine Park
Policy Intern
This Wednesday I celebrated my last day in the office! I accepted admission to George Washington University in Washington, D.C. with plans on earning a degree in Political Science.
As a born-and-raised South County resident, I enjoyed connecting personally with residents and cities over the past eight months-- engaging with the most prominent issues in our county. As an intern, I learned about the process of how we incorporate our agenda items into existing programs and policies. I learned how our county agencies, such as OCTA, OCPW, and OCCR, provide the best services for residents. Most of all, I learned how the County fulfills our community needs.
A huge thank you to Supervisor Foley and the team for this opportunity for growth as I represented the amazing District 5!
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Gagan Bhopal
Intern
Last Sunday, I attended the Fiesta Music Festival down in San Clemente, where local bands played throughout the day, and I enjoyed meeting community members like you! I learned hosting booths in our community goes beyond handing out important County resources and information. My first time attending a community event as an intern provided me with great insight into the issues most important to our residents, such as the local economy and local beach resiliency. I look forward to further building my community engagement skills in this internship and applying your perspectives in my policy work.
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Mecca McFadden
Policy Fellow
Happy Friday District Five,
Today marks my first full month with Supervisor Foley’s office. As a self-proclaimed policy nerd, working in a space that cultivates and encourages my interest in legislation and government feels like a dream. This week I dedicated my time to in-depth research on Orange County’s approach to hate crimes and how District 5 connects with community-based organizations, so together, we ensure all Orange County residents feel safe and welcome here.
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Noa Tuliau
Policy Fellow
Hi everyone! My name is Noa Tuliau, and I serve as a new District Fellow assisting Supervisor Foley with her important work in the Fifth District.
I grew up in Los Alamitos, California, and recently graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, with a B.A. in Political Science, with a Pre-Law concentration and Spanish minor. During my time as an undergraduate, I gained experience as an intern in the public relations field at Englander Knabe & Allen and as a legal office professional for San Luis Obispo's primary Public Defender. Now, I return to beautiful Orange County and join Team Foley while awaiting the upcoming law school application process.
As a District Fellow, I support our District Representatives with daily tasks, analyzing policy, and staffing community booths. A few fun facts about me: I am a fraternal twin, I love playing volleyball, and I love seafood. I look forward to connecting with every one of you face-to-face around the Fifth District!
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Alexandra Menninger
Policy Fellow
Hey District Five! My name is Ali Menninger, and I was born and raised in Orange County. I graduated from Foothill High School and earned a degree in World Politics from Michigan State University. My career in public service began with AmeriCorps, where I served the County of Orange with the American Red Cross. After two years working in tech in San Francisco, I returned to AmeriCorps, this time with Susan G. Komen. Fueled by a passion for helping others, I completed my legal education at New York Law School in 2023, where I earned a certificate in Public Interest Law. I look forward to continuing my public service work here in District Five!
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Join Team Foley - Communications Director
My office seeks a Communications Director with the ability to move forward the Supervisor’s priorities and initiatives with a passion for public service and changing the status quo.
The Communications Director is responsible for managing the Supervisor’s daily press and digital operations, which includes media outreach as well as preparing press releases, talking points, briefing memos, social media content, and e-mail newsletters.
JWA Airport Director Charlene Reynolds receives the Inclusive Leadership Award
This award honors an Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) business or corporation member demonstrating diversity and inclusion within its procurement and employment corporate structure. Nominees lead in supplier diversity and best practices, and foster business capacity with their diverse partners. Congratulations, Charlene!
A reminder about the frequently asked questions from boaters and members of the public regarding the Dana Point Harbor Partners proposed slip rate increase. Access the completed document here.
To learn more: Visit Supervisor Foley’s Dana Point Harbor Revitalization website, including a document repository for members of the public to access. Also, go to the DPH website for events, community updates, and visitor info. If you have any feedback for our website, please contact Christian Gagne at DPHOversight@ocgov.com.
Health News
From the OC Health Care Agency
As of August 2024, an increase in COVID-19 activity and in hospitalizations impacts Orange County. People 65 years of age and older experience highest risk of severe disease. To those 6 months of age and older, stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations. If symptomatic, recommendations include preventative measures such as wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home. Reduce transmission and protect vulnerable populations such as seniors, those younger than one year old, and those with severe medical conditions.
Thank you,
Regina Chinsio-Kwong, DO
County Health Officer
Measles Information for General Public
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness. Measles presents with a fever and characteristic rash. Measles can be a serious disease:
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1 in 5 people who get measles are hospitalized
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1 out of 1,000 people with measles develop encephalitis (swelling of the brain)
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1 to 3 out of 1,000 people with measles die
Measles can be prevented with measles vaccine, usually as part of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Additional Information on measles can be found at the CDC’s Measles page.
Free Naloxone Deliveries in Orange County - FentanylSolution.org
In partnership with CalOptima, FentanylSolution.org is proud to offer free deliveries of Naloxone (8mg Kloxxado) at absolutely no-cost to all residents and businesses across Orange County.
Naloxone, often known as Narcan or Kloxxado, is an over-the-counter nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses in just 1-2 minutes. It quickly restores normal breathing in someone experiencing an overdose, making it essential for bystanders to have on hand in emergencies. Naloxone is safe, non-addictive, and can be given to anyone suspected of overdosing, regardless of their age or medical history.
Our staff can deliver these supplies at no cost to all OC residents, businesses, and organizations. Our goal is to reach community members who may find themselves in a position to act as bystanders during an overdose emergency. We also offer training upon request and can accommodate bulk orders.
Join FentanylSolution.org in our mission to reduce opioid-related harm and save lives in communities across Orange County.
From California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara:
Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable, yet more than 700 people die from extreme heat every year in the United States, including many in California. As California endures high heat and increased wildfire danger, the California Department of Insurance is sharing a fact sheet on Preparing for Extreme Heat and Wildfire Risk.
CalOptima Health Grant Opportunities:
Click here and complete the Community Event Sponsorship Form!
Transportation News
E-Bike Update
The Board of Supervisors approved the e-bike ordinance includes common-sense provisions such as grouping restrictions, sidewalk speed limits, helmets for minors, requirements for yielding to pedestrians and equestrians and for an audible alarm when overtaking, consequences for driving without a license when required, and more. Read the ordinance here.
While only 8% of the California population, Orange County residents account for 41% of all e-bike accidents in the state. Unsafe e-bike usage remains a growing concern. After our office held numerous community meetings on this issue, our Deputy Sheriffs requested clarity on their ability to enforce traffic violations in unincorporated Orange County. At my request, the Board of Supervisors delivered this clarity just in time to increase safety during the Fourth of July weekend.
Angels Express Is Back For The 2024 Season!
Ride in car-free comfort and celebrate on the train! Enjoy home runs, hot dogs, and friends without driving. Angels Express train service is rolling back into action for the 2024 season, so you won’t miss a pitch! Learn more.
Youth Ride Free Passes
The pass provides youth aged 6 to 18 with free travel on safe, clean and reliable buses.
Youth Ride Free passes are available from your child's participating Orange County school. Parent signature is required.
If your child’s school is not distributing the Youth Ride Free pass, you may request a pass here. REQUEST A PASS
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.
State and Federal Resources Updates
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Direct Pay’s Role in Uplifting Communities
The Inflation Reduction Act introduced a new era for clean energy development, particularly for tax-exempt and governmental entities. This toolkit is designed to help local government staff and elected officials understand and leverage Direct Pay provisions to enhance community well-being and sustainability.
Understanding Direct Pay: Direct Pay allows eligible entities to receive payments equivalent to tax credits for clean energy projects. This unprecedented move by the federal government is set to catalyze public sector involvement in the clean energy transition.
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Financial Empowerment: Provides immediate access to funds, increasing the scope and scale of potential projects.
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Uplifting Communities: Facilitates investments in clean energy that lead to job creation, economic growth, and improved public health.
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Environmental Justice: Ensures that the benefits of clean energy reach all communities, including those historically underserved.
Eligibility and Applicable Projects:
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Who’s Eligible: State and local governments, tribal entities, rural cooperatives, and more.
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Project Types: Solar and wind installations, EV charging stations, and clean vehicle fleets are among the qualifying projects.
Southern California Edison’s (SCE) Involvement: SCE is at the forefront of supporting clean energy initiatives that align with the IRA’s goals. Our programs offer rebates for home energy retrofits and support the electrification of transportation, which can be combined with Direct Pay benefits.
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Assess Community Needs: Identify potential clean energy projects that align with community goals. Let SCE know if you are planning any clean energy projects or are applying for funding.
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Review SCE Programs: SCE’s rebates and incentives can complement Direct Pay, providing additional financial support.
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Secure Funding: Apply for Direct Pay by meeting the requirements for both the payment and the underlying tax credit.
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Educate and Engage: Raise awareness among community members about the benefits of clean energy projects.
The IRA’s Direct Pay provision is a game-changer for local governments, enabling them to take decisive action towards a sustainable future. With SCE as a strategic partner, communities can harness the full potential of clean energy to create a healthier, more resilient society.
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Sabo!
 Hi, I'm Sabo, a 5-year-old Akita mix with lots of love to give! With my enthusiastic and bright personality, we'll have so much fun together, forever! If you want to adopt or foster me, here are some cool things you should know about me: I'm friendly, love squeaky toys, I am great to talk with, and I'm potty trained! But want to know my absolute favorite thing? I love pets! The feeling of being massaged from head to tail makes me melt into serene bliss.
Since I'm part Akita, there's a spiritual significance that Akitas signify health, happiness, and long life. Not to make it any clearer, but that means you should adopt me! I prefer to fly solo in terms of other furry friends, but I assure you that I'll be the only handsome sidekick you need! To adopt or foster me, please call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention my Animal ID A1843397. I can't wait to be part of your family!
 Consider opening your heart and home to a temporary four-legged companion by becoming a foster parent! OC Animal Care is overflowing with lovable dogs in need of temporary homes, and we are on a mission to find foster heroes like you! The ongoing rainstorms mean more dogs need us. Can you open your heart and home to a furry friend in need?
Please email ocacprograms@occr.ocogv.com today to be a foster hero!
OC Parks: Summer Concerts and Cinema Series 2024
  Save the Date for the OC Parks Summer Concert and Cinema Series in the Fabulous Fifth District District 5!
The Ocean Institute's 40th Maritime Festival!
Friday, Sept 13 – Sunday, Sept 15
The Maritime Festival is one of Ocean Institutes Annual fundraisers. All proceeds from the entire weekend support Ocean Institute Education Programs. This festival celebrates California’s rich maritime history and our connection to the ocean! This is a fun-filled weekend event with visiting Tall Ships, Cannon Battles, Pirate and Mermaid Ball, Beer Garden, Mermaids Swim Shows, Pirate School, Live music, Reenactors and Sailor Camp, Vendors, Food Trucks and more!
Ocean Institute Summer Camp Openings
Click here for more information about the Ocean Institute’s Summer Camps this year. Also, click here to learn more about the Ocean Institute’s 40th Annual Maritime Festival
Book Your Whale-Watching Tour & Watch Marine Life in the Wild!
See giant blue whales, finback whales, gray whales and many more in their natural habitat while whale watching in Newport Beach! Newport Whales offers some of the best whale watching California has to offer! Visit www.newportwhales.com & make your reservations.
Register for Summer Camp Scholarships at Westwind Sailing!
San Clemente Chamber of Commerce's Environmental Education Program:
 
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
OC Public Libraries: California State Parks Pass Program
 OC Public Libraries is partnering with California State Parks and the California State Library to offer free State Parks vehicle-day use passes, available for circulation at all branches of public libraries in California.
Last year, 9,957 people checked out park passes. Adventure beyond the book allows Californians to access beautiful parks, lakes, beaches, and monuments in the State Parks system for free. Place a hold today!
The goal of the passes is to support parks access equity, removing economic barriers to Californians’ park visits, and that they should be made available to those that need it or may not be using parks already.
To learn more about parks, visit the Parks website.
Click here to learn more about the program.
Bulky Item Disposal
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.
Free Compost and Mulch for OC Residents!
⏰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.
OC Public Libraries
The 12 County libraries in our district welcome people of all ages. We help them find trusted information and receive supports for lifelong learning!
Check out these upcoming fabulous Fifth District events, and learn more here:
BenefitsCal
 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.
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 - NEW!
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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