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During our April 8 meeting, the Board of Supervisors proudly recognized April as National Arab, Middle Eastern, and North African (AMENA) Heritage Month and honored the invaluable contributions of AMENA communities in fields such as arts, science, politics, and beyond.
It was a privilege to host members of the community at our Board presentation, where we not only honored their rich contributions but also addressed the ongoing challenges they face, including overcoming stereotypes and advocating for greater representation and understanding. This month serves as a crucial reminder to reflect on how we can uplift and amplify these communities, ensuring they are seen, valued, and heard in every aspect of society.
 Orange County is home to a vibrant AMENA community, highlighted by Little Arabia in Anaheim, stretching along the Brookhurst Corridor from Broadway to Ball Road. Opened on August 23, 2022, Little Arabia reflects the cultural richness of the AMENA community while contributing to the county’s growth and success.
Last month, I was invited by the Islamic Society of Orange County to attend a community forum focused on issues that matter deeply to the community. It was a meaningful evening of dialogue and connection, where I also had the pleasure of breaking the fast during Ramadan alongside Congressman Derek Tran and Executive Director Amir Mertaban. I was grateful for the warm welcome and thoughtful conversations with the Muslim community.
 In California, the AMENA community is significant, but their distinct identity is sometimes overlooked in census data and general demographic reporting. As a result, demographic statistics about AMENA communities are often embedded within larger racial or ethnic groups, making it challenging to fully understand their population size, needs, and contributions. Assembly Bill 91, introduced this year, seeks to remedy this situation.
I had a wonderful evening celebrating the outstanding awardees at the 31st Annual Estrella Awards, hosted by the Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. This annual celebration shines a spotlight on exceptional business, community, and philanthropic achievements across the county, recognizing the individuals and organizations that make a meaningful impact.
 I was honored to present the Community Partner Award to Pacific Symphony, with their legendary Music Director, Carl St.Clair, accepting on their behalf. It was an unforgettable evening filled with celebration, recognition, and meaningful connections within our vibrant business community. Congratulations to all the honorees for their outstanding contributions and leadership.
 The event highlights the mission of the Chamber to support the development of Hispanic-owned businesses by providing opportunities for networking, legislative advocacy, access to capital, education, and training programs. Thank you to the Hispanic Chamber for their support of small business owners, entrepreneurs, and businesses that celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Black April Memorial Month is a month of remembrance, commemorating the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, and honoring the victims and survivors of this pivotal event. In addition to marking the Fall of Saigon, April is a time to reflect on the resilience of the Vietnamese diaspora.
This was a moment in history that led to profound loss, sacrifice, and displacement for many South Vietnamese families. It serves as a reminder of the courage and hardships endured by those who lived through this time and the lasting impact it had on their lives.
I was honored to have community representatives join us for the presentation marking such an important milestone. For those who fled, particularly to the United States, Black April Memorial Month provides an opportunity to honor their struggles and acknowledge the ongoing healing journey. Many of these individuals found new homes here in Southern California, where they have become integral members of our community.
 The City of Santa Ana holds a historic connection to the Vietnamese community. In 1980, Santa Ana became a vital hub for Vietnamese refugees, with over 6,200 refugees settling there, paving the way for many other cities in Orange County to follow suit.
My wife and I enjoyed an unforgettable evening at this year’s Orange County School of the Arts Annual Gala. Students showcased their extraordinary talents in celebration of the school’s 25th year in Santa Ana.
Having witnessed my daughter graduate from OCSA last year, it was inspiring to see the next generation of students and see their passion and dedication through music, dance, and performance. It is always incredible to see firsthand the opportunities for self-expression and artistic development that the school provides here in the heart of Orange County.
 Thank you to all the students, faculty, and school supporters who made this night possible. Congratulations to OCSA on 25 years of excellence in the arts and education.
It was a pleasure to join in celebrating all the recipients of this year’s Affordable Housing Awards. The awards celebrate achievements in the affordable housing space and recognize the work being done to expand dignified, affordable housing in our county.
Congratulations to Laura Archuleta, President & CEO of Jamboree, on receiving the Ralph Kennedy Award and to Related CA for the selection of the Crossroads at Washington for the Project of the Year Award.
Developments like Crossroads at Washington, Miraflores, WisePlace on Broadway, and Estrella Springs show what’s possible when we partner together.
 I want to send a special thank you to the Kennedy Commission, OC Community Housing Corp., and to all the developers, city staff, and the county housing team working to make affordable housing a reality.
Our team was on hand to support and celebrate this year’s Kinder Caminata at Santa Ana College. It was incredible to see the teachers, staff, parents, and students who make this tradition a great event.
The team felt energized and uplifted by the enthusiasm of the parents and students who visited our booth, joining in the fun with hula hooping, an exciting way to stay active and healthy.
 I want to give a special thank you to the staff and students from Santa Ana College who worked all day to make it all a success.
Our team joined in Orange County’s Walk4ALZ, standing in solidarity with so many passionate advocates in the fight against Alzheimer’s.
The participants, volunteers, and supporters who walked, donated, and raised awareness serve as a source of inspiration, motivating us to continue the fight to deliver vital care, essential resources, and hope to the over 164,000 individuals in Orange County impacted by memory loss.
 Community members, friends, and families joined in this successful event. Those affected by the disease come from all walks of life and from every one of our communities. For more information and resources, please visit Alzheimer’s Orange County.
Our team had the pleasure of supporting Eisenhower Elementary School in Garden Grove and attending their incredible production of Aladdin Jr. The students and staff poured their hearts into the performance, showcasing their exceptional singing and acting talents.
 A special thank you to Principal Ash for inviting our office and giving us the opportunity to witness the students’ exceptional performance.
Next week, the Board of Supervisors will begin the process of reviewing and selecting candidates for the County Chief Executive Officer position.
This is a critical leadership role, responsible for overseeing county departments and managing the budget, all in alignment with the Board’s direction. As we prepare for this important decision, I want to hear your thoughts on what would make a great County CEO.
I’m looking for a candidate who not only understands the complexities of managing a large county but who also brings a fresh, forward-looking perspective. In times like these, we need someone who approaches challenges with creativity and practicality, and who has the courage to work closely with the Board to address the issues that matter most to our residents.
I would truly appreciate hearing your thoughts on the qualities, experience, and vision you'd like to see in our next CEO.
Please email our office at Vicente.Sarmiento@ocgov.com and thank you in advance for your input.
The County of Orange is creating a Local Road Safety Plan (LRSP) and wants to hear from you! Take the project survey and help shape the future of roadway safety within Unincorporated Orange County areas.
The LRSP will prioritize actions and improvements to make roads safer, with input from the community. This comprehensive plan builds on past safety efforts and will guide future funding applications for infrastructure projects.
We invite you to get involved by taking the survey and sharing your thoughts on how to improve roadway safety in Orange County. Your input is crucial in shaping the future of our roads. Learn more and take part in the survey/mapping tool at www.oclrsp.com.
We continue to address public safety concerns related to people congregating along the riverbed and in flood control channels. We face the dual challenge of expanding access to bike paths while controlling these areas to prevent criminal activity and ensuring we provide services to those in need.
I wanted to share some of the latest before and after images of that ongoing work.
Before After
 Before After
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