| Board of Supervisors |
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| Welcome to Nelson's E-News! |
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Thank you for reading this edition of my newsletter. I hope you find the information below very helpful. As always, I appreciate and look forward to your feedback.
The Board will be dark on Tuesday, September 23. The next Board of Supervisors meeting will be Tuesday, September 30 at 9:30am in the Hall of Administration – 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana 92701.
Sincerely,
Shawn Nelson |
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| In the Community |
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| Two-Mile Segment of OC Loop Opens |
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Supervisor Nelson speaks at the OC Loop ribbon cutting yesterday. |
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Yesterday, Orange County Transportation Authority officials cut a ceremonial ribbon to mark the completion of an important two-mile segment of the OC Loop, a path for bicyclists and pedestrians to travel throughout the county. As OCTA Chairman, Shawn Nelson joined CEO Darrell Johnson for the ceremony at Behringer Athletic Facility to celebrate the opening of the Coyote Creek trail that runs near Beach Boulevard between Buena Park and La Mirada.
Each portion of the OC Loop that opens represents a victory for cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts in the county. As an added benefit, enhancing Orange County’s reputation as a bike-friendly community plays an important role in attracting the next wave of homeowners, working professionals and community leaders. OCTA is working with transportation officials in all the cities along the OC Loop to create 66 miles of seamless bikeway and pedestrian connections across Orange County – from La Habra to Seal Beach, Huntington Beach to Yorba Linda.
About 650,000 residents live within one mile of the OC Loop, which provides a convenient path to some of the region’s most popular destinations such as beaches and parks. It also provides commuters with connections to several bus stops and three Metrolink stations, as well as major employment centers. The loop is now about 70% complete and being used by thousands of people. The OC Loop connects 17 cities, 200 parks and 180 schools in Orange County.
For more information, visit www.octa.net/OCLoop.
For more pictures click here. |
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| “A Toast for Hope” at Anaheim Brewery |
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Each year, the Orange County Family Justice Center Foundation sponsors a charity event called “A Toast for Hope.” This year, the OCFJC Foundation held the casual fundraiser at the Anaheim Brewery and invited Supervisor Nelson to join other “Celebrity Bartenders” pouring beer and helping raise funds through tips and attracting guests.
For over an hour, Supervisor Nelson was honored to take drink orders and run the taps with Anaheim Mayor Tom Tait and Fire Chief Randy Bruegman. After their service behind the bar, the bartenders joined guests to socialize and enjoy craft beer and a taco bar.
Thanks to Greg Gerovac, Anaheim Brewery owner and Member of the OCFJC Foundation Board of Trustees, for hosting the event this year and Michelle Huff, also a Member of the OCFJC Foundation, for organizing the event.
Established in 2006 and based in the Fourth District, the OCFJC Foundation is a nonprofit that is one of 15 partners of the Orange County Family Justice Center, which houses law enforcement and social services employees under one roof. The OCFJC facilitates access to services that victims need to protect themselves and their families from further violence.
The mission of the OCFJC Foundation is to provide direct victim assistance and empowerment and prevention resources to victims and families whose lives have been impacted by domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault and elder abuse. The OCFJC Foundation transforms victims into survivors and breaks the cycle of violence.
If you missed “A Toast for Hope,” the OCFJC Foundation has another opportunity for you to support its mission during its anniversary luncheon coming up next month. |
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Supervisor Nelson prepares to pour a drink for a thirsty guest. |
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Supervisor Nelson and Anaheim Mayor Tom Tait “toast” the OCFJC Foundation. |
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| Danilo Macias wins Eco Challenge Poster Contest |
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Danilo Macias, of Anaheim, took the challenge to heart when he created his award-winning Eco Challenge poster. Danilo’s vision for Orange County’s future includes a super high-tech cleaning ray circling the earth’s atmosphere, as well as more familiar features such as solar power and wildlife-friendly habitat. Danilo’s depiction of Orange County 125 years from now won him the honor of serving as Honorary Bat Kid representing the Fourth District at the Angels game last Friday night.
He and four other contest winners donned their Angel uniforms, starred in a pre-game recognition ceremony on the field and enjoyed viewing the game from a suite at Angel Stadium. Supervisor Nelson’s Chief of Staff, Denis Bilodeau, joined Danilo on the field before the game.
The County of Orange and Angels Baseball together presented the 2014 Eco Challenge poster contest. This year’s contestants used their imagination to create artwork demonstrating what the next 125 years would look like if we took the Eco Challenge and worked toward a sustainable future. The theme was inspired by the County’s 125th anniversary.
Congratulations, Danilo. Photos of the event at Angel Stadium can be viewed here. |
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| OCTA |
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| OCTA Committee Approves Environmental Cleanup |
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The Measure M2 Environmental Cleanup Program, part of the County’s half-cent sales tax, helps improve overall water quality in Orange County from transportation-generated pollution. Program funds will be allocated on a countywide competitive basis to assist jurisdictions in meeting the Clean Water Act for controlling transportation-generated pollution. The funds are designed to supplement existing transportation-related water quality programs.
The Regional Planning and Highways Committee approved a total of $2.8 million, which will go before the full Board for a vote on Monday, for eighteen projects. Of these, the Fourth District cities and the County received a total of $1,208,944 in funding for seven projects.
The full list may be found here. |
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| OC Bridges Update |
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As part of the O.C. Bridges Project, OCTA is building seven bridges to separate trains from vehicles along the BNSF corridor in Fullerton, Placentia and Anaheim. Completed bridges at Placentia Avenue and Kraemer Boulevard are now open to traffic. Construction continues on five other projects.
Orangethorpe Avenue Overcrossing
Orangethorpe Avenue is closed to through traffic until spring 2016, when the bridge is scheduled for completion. Temporary sound blankets have been installed. Pile driving began and will continue until estimated completion in late November. Tree and groundcover removal is ongoing at Chapman Avenue and Orangethorpe Avenue. Chapman Avenue will remain open until early 2015. |
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Tustin Avenue/Rose Drive Overcrossing
The bypass road is being paved and striped and equipped with traffic signals, and is awaiting BNSF signal activation. In addition, property tie-ins within Del Cerro Mobile Estates have been completed.
Lakeview Avenue Overcrossing
Construction continues at Lakeview Avenue with ongoing sewer, water line and AT&T utility relocations.
At the State College Boulevard and Raymond Avenue undercrossings, utility relocations are ongoing.
Follow the construction progress of each bridge here. Visit the individual project pages, scroll to the bottom and watch the daily progress |
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| 3 Feet for Safety Act |
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Driving near a bicyclist? When passing in the same direction, give the cyclist at least three feet of clearance. Designed to reduce car-bicycle crashes, the 3 Feet for Safety Act went into effect on Sept. 16.
In 2012, collisions involving motor vehicles and bicycles in Orange County resulted in 13 deaths and more than 1,200 injuries. Drivers who follow the new 3-feet passing law can help lower the risk for potential accidents. Please help keep Orange County safe for all. Watch and share our new video, which reminds viewers to bike smart, bike safe and give cyclists room to ride.
What is the 3 Feet for Safety Act?
Beginning September 16, 2014, drivers must give people riding bikes at least 3 feet of clearance when passing in the same direction. The new law, AB-1371, is designed to reduce car-bicycle crashes by reminding drivers to give bicyclists more safe space when passing.
I Give 3 Feet. It’s the Law.
Hundreds of people are killed and many more are injured nationwide each year. Many of these injuries and deaths are preventable. If drivers follow the new 3-feet passing law, the risk for potential accidents drops dramatically.
Safety Tips for Drivers and Bike Riders
Drivers:
- Slow down near bicyclists
- Pay attention and avoid driving distractions
- Look for bicyclists before opening your car door
- Be aware of oncoming Bicyclists when making a left turn
- Check your blind spot for bicyclists before turning right
Bicyclists:
- Ride with the flow of traffic, not against it
- Ride with a white front light at night
- Be visible. Don’t hug the curb and ride in a straight line
- Be predictable and use hand signals
- Stop at red lights and stop signs
- Ride 3-5 feet to the left of parked cars to avoid opening doors
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| Brea Seniors Discover that Public Transportation is the Way to Go |
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At a recent meeting at the Brea Senior Center, nearly 50 seniors learned about the many public transportation options open to them during a “How to Ride the Bus” presentation from the OCTA senior outreach staff. The presentation also includes information about ACCESS and Metrolink train service.
This free program is available to groups and organizations serving seniors throughout Orange County. The presentation is engaging and informative, and all participants receive a free one-day bus pass so they can try the bus.
Those 60 and over are eligible for discounted fares thanks to Measure M, the half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements. OCTA offers 77 bus routes, 6,200 bus stops and plenty of buses to help riders reach their destination.
OCTA also offers personalized bus and trip planning assistance for seniors groups that are planning outings. For more information and to schedule a presentation, go here. |
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| ACCESS Service |
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ACCESS is OCTA’s shared-ride service for people who are unable to use the regular, fixed-route bus service because of functional limitations caused by a disability. These passengers must be certified by OCTA to use the ACCESS system by meeting the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) eligibility criteria.
For more information, visit OCTA ACCESS. Click here to download and print the application form. |
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| Metrolink Board Changes Meeting Schedule |
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Last week, the Metrolink Board changed their meeting schedule, effective in October. Beginning next month, there will be two Board of Directors meetings and all but one committee will be eliminated. Those committees being dissolved include the Legislative & Communications; Safety & Operations; and Planning & Finance.
The only committee to continue meeting is the Executive Management & Audit Committee. The EMAC will be composed of one regular and one alternate representative from each of the five JPA members. However, each member and alternate must be regular members of the Board of Directors. Although part of the rotation, the Board also memorialized that each County have representation on the committee. The EMAC’s functions include reviewing the Chief Executive Officer’s performance and all financial and audit reports.
The goal is to create a more engaged, participatory board with more frequent meetings of the entire membership. |
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| Greek Festival Contest |
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Back for a second year, the San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival is full of delicious food and fun. Shout “Opa!”, sample some Greek wine and take a free dance lesson. Metrolink riders can even get a free pastry with their valid ticket!
Enter our Greek Festival giveaway for a chance to win two Metrolink tickets. You can even share with friends to increase your odds! Or, meet us at our kickoff event in Tustin on September 27. The first 50 guests will receive a free Metrolink ticket. Click here for more information. |
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| Catch the Metrolink USC Football Express |
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On Saturday, Sept. 27, the special USC Football Express will take football fans to and from Orange County to watch the Trojans face off against the Oregon State Beavers at the LA Coliseum. The game begins at 7:30 p.m.
Orange County residents can board a convenient Metrolink train near home and take it to LA Union Station. After changing over to LA Metro Rail, it’s a quick and easy ride to the LA Memorial Coliseum with a few simple transfers. Transfers to LA Metro Rail are free. After the game, take the LA Metro Rail back to LA Union Station.
The USC Football Express will leave LA Union Station one hour and 15 minutes after the game ends. Count on this Metrolink train for a convenient ride south to Oceanside and all points in between.
Fans can leave traffic and crowded parking lots behind with a fun and stress-free ride on the special Metrolink USC Football Express. Schedules will be posted soon at OCTA.net. |
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| Take the Train to Work or School During Rideshare Week |
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You may have taken Metrolink to a baseball game or to a new city on a Saturday or Sunday, but have you ever tried riding to work? Every weekday, 45 Metrolink trains make their way through Orange County. The OC Line alone has an average of 8,100 riders each weekday. Depending on where you live and work, Metrolink just might work for you.
The best time to give it a try is during Rideshare Week, when residents pledge to use alternate modes of transportation for a chance to win prizes. By submitting an online pledge to rideshare one or more days between Oct. 6 and Oct. 10, individuals will be entered in a raffle to win gift certificates, an iPad mini and more. Their efforts also help decrease traffic congestion and reduce pollution. |
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This year, OCTA is encouraging greater participation by awarding prizes to those rideshare superheroes who share the news with family and friends. After they pledge, participants receive a special URL. Those who share it and refer three or more people have a chance to win a $50 gift card.
Learn more here. |
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| Metrolink Monthly Pass Holders Can Receive a Free BikeShare Pass |
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Metrolink monthly pass holders now have an opportunity to start or finish their commute with a convenient BikeShare membership at no extra cost. When purchasing a Metrolink monthly pass, all that’s needed is a special promotion code. The promotion is good through December 31, 2014 and valid for one year.
The OCTA BikeShare system is located in downtown Fullerton, with multiple stations located throughout the area, including California State University, Fullerton. Bike sharing is designed for quick, point-to-point trips as car alternative.
Annual members can use the BikeShare system for an unlimited number of 30-minute trips. It’s a great opportunity to try something new, such as integrating a bike ride with a daily commute. Check out a bike at one station and ride to another close to your destination, whether it's work, school or home. Learn more. |
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| Ride the Train to these Fun Events |
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| Here are some upcoming events that you can easily get to on Metrolink! Whether you prefer relaxing on the beach or making your way through a popular convention, we have you covered! |
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| Auto Show — Oct. 2-5 in Anaheim |
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| Ride to Anaheim for the Orange County International Auto Show (Oct. 2-5). Hundreds of cars will be on display, including new, exotic, classic and tricked-out rides. There will also be plenty of activities for kids. Even better, Metrolink riders can get in for free on Thursday or Friday, or receive $3 off admission on Saturday or Sunday. Learn more. |
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| Sea Fest — Oct. 5 in San Clemente |
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| The San Clemente Sea Fest is one of the city's most popular events. Ride to the pier on Sunday, Oct. 5 and enjoy contests, art exhibits, a chowder cook-off and a U.S. Coast Guard Search and Rescue demonstration. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, not to mention the beautiful beach! Learn more. |
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| CicLAvia — Oct. 5 in Los Angeles |
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CicLAvia is returning to Los Angeles on Sunday, Oct. 5. The free event, which is expected to draw 100,000 visitors, features miles of car-free streets in the downtown area that pedestrians and cyclists are invited to use.
Historically, Metrolink has experienced record bike ridership on CicLAvia weekend. All Metrolink coach cars can hold three bicycles each and a special bike car can accommodate 18 bikes. Once the train cars reach capacity, no additional bikes will be allowed. Please arrive at the station early, as space will be limited to a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more. |
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| SOMOS — Oct. 5 in Santa Ana |
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Santa Ana is having its first-ever open streets event on Sunday, Oct. 5. Ride to the Santa Ana station, with your bike in tow, and enjoy three miles of car-free streets along the city's vibrant downtown. There are many restaurants and shops to enjoy. As previously mentioned, bike space will be limited on certain trains because of the CicLAvia event. Once the train cars reach capacity, no additional bikes will be allowed. Please arrive at the station early, as space will be limited to a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more.
Traveling on Metrolink to these events is easy and affordable thanks to the Metrolink Weekend Day Pass. With this pass, riders can travel to and from the fair – and anywhere else on the Metrolink system – for only $10 either Saturday or Sunday. Learn more. |
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| Riders Valued Metrolink’s Summer Treasures Promotion |
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OCTA's “Metrolink Seven Summer Treasures" promotion and prize giveaway concluded this month with resounding success. Designed to encourage summer Metrolink ridership, the website showcased fun destinations within walking distance of Metrolink stations in Orange County and beyond. A sweepstakes drawing and photo-sharing contest with many quality prizes acted as incentives to increase website usage and participation.
While Seven Summer Treasures may be closed for the season, its outstanding results are here to stay.
Because the website adapted to any device, those on desktop computers, tablets, and mobile phones all had a great interactive experience. Individuals planned trips at home, took the details along – and changed plans on the go.
More than 30,000 visitors came to metrolinktreasures.com to discover ideas for great food, shopping, culture and bike rides at locations from Los Angeles to Oceanside. More than half (54 percent) of these visitors came from Facebook. As a result of the promotion, OCTA gained nearly 1,800 new Facebook fans – an increase of 24 percent.
With its upbeat momentum and quick snapshots of engaging destinations, the accompanying video received 15,800 views – the most-watched OCTA video to date.
OCTA delivered 60,000 emails in support of the promotion and gained 2,000 new email subscriptions, a 36 percent increase.
One number stands out as a clear indication of the enjoyment delivered by the website: 360. That’s how many photos visitors shared of their Seven Summer Treasures adventures. |
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| Announcements |
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| County of Orange Eco Challenge Day at Angel Stadium |
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Join the Eco Crew in saying goodbye to summer and hello to fall at our last Eco Challenge Day of the 2014 season! On Saturday, September 20, 2014, from 8:00am to 11:00am, bring your paper for free certified on-site document destruction and e-waste, gently used clothing, or household goods for donation to Goodwill of Orange County. The first 150 cars who bring items to Angel Stadium will receive either four free tickets to that night's Angel game on September 20th (50 sets) or four free general admission tickets to Discovery Cube (100 sets). *while supplies last*
Highlights Include:
- Current Angels third base coach and alumni Gary DiSarcina will be signing autographs from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m!
- Give away, prizes and more from OC Waste & Recycling, Republic Services, Discovery Cube, Goodwill of Orange County, AM 830, OC Sheriff's, and Angels Baseball
- Discovery Cube's Minute to Win It stage show will be performing for children to learn more about the Eco Challenge
- Republic Services MRFY the Robot will be on-hand to educate children about recycling
For more information, click here |
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| Crittenton Services |
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Crittenton was established and incorporated in 1966 and since then we have been committed to provide our expertise and assistance to the clients and community partners we work with. Crittenton provides a full array of residential, in-home, community based, foster care, and advocacy programs and services in the following service planning areas throughout Southern California.
Crittenton’s advocacy only works when our partners and friends come alongside us to be the voice for vulnerable children. The good news is there are plenty of ways to help out! For example:
Join the Junior Advocates Council (JAC)! JAC is comprised of young professionals, high school and college students who are passionate about making a difference. We have monthly conference calls (dark for summer), letter writing campaigns and have assisted students who outreach and educate their peers. Not only is it an incredible way to learn how to help those in need, but it’s not a bad resume builder either. Tell policy@crittentonsocal.org you’re ready to join us when we ramp back up in the fall. |
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| California State Association of Counties Recognizes O.C. for Excellence |
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The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) announced their annual Merit Awards earlier this week that highlight operations and programs from around the State that counties are engaged in. The County of Orange was selected for six Merit Awards this year for leading on solving problems and improving efficiency in innovative ways. The six departments and programs that have been selected are as follows:
- Sharing Services to Benefit Assessors and Taxpayers
- Haster Basin Recreation Park
- OC GRIP Parent Greeter Program
- Santiago Library System Courtesy Delivery Service
- Saturday Marriage Openings
- The Theo Lacy Jail Facility Sustainability Project
Supervisor Nelson would like to congratulate the various county departments who have been working hard on these projects and programs. As resources are often spread thin it is encouraging to see the County of Orange continuously looking for ways to efficiently and effectively deliver essential services and think outside the box to ensure quality results. Each department and program manager will receive Merit Awards directly from CSAC. Orange County tied only San Diego County with the most amount of Merit Awards. |
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| OC Photographer’s Unique Photos on Display at JWA |
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A gallery of photos taken with an antique wooden camera are on display in the Thomas F. Riley Terminal as part of John Wayne Airport’s Community Focus Space Program. Joel Brown’s photography can be seen on the Departure (upper) Level near the security screening areas in Terminals A, B and C and on the Arrival (lower) Level adjacent to Baggage Carousels 1 and 4 from September 19, 2014 through October 15, 2014.
Brown discovered his photographic muse for this exhibit in his recent return to surfing in 2009. Upon purchasing a 60-year-old wooden camera and standard 8 x 10 film, he chose to photograph his new friends and the occasional stranger at his routine surfing spot, San Onofre State Beach. While many surfers are photographed surfing, Brown preferred to capture formal portraits out of the water. As a thank you to participants, Brown presented them each with a print. |
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Brian's Kookbox (San Onofre State Beach)
More images can be seen here. |
| A longtime California resident, Joel Brown discovered photography in college and continued his passion for photos over the next 30 years. Brown enjoys photographing landscapes and more recently, portraits and the human form. To learn more about JWA's Art Programs, visit: www.ocair.com/Terminal/Artexhibits. |
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| West Nile Virus Warning |
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Click on the image above to view a larger version.
Click on the image above to view a larger version.
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| Clerk-Recorder Open Tomorrow |
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Click on the image above to view a larger version.
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| Tax Defaulted Properties |
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| Please contact the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office at ttcinfo@ttc.ocgov.com, and a staff person will follow up on further details and the next steps to bring the property taxes current. Below is a list of tax defaulted properties. |
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Click on the image above to view a larger version of the entire list.
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| Do you know any hometown heroes? |
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The Fourth District is accepting submissions to recognize unsung heroes in our community.
This may include public safety, first responders, or friends and neighbors who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in everyday life to enrich our community.
To share your story, please call or email Mark Lopez: Mark.Lopez@ocgov.com 714-834-3440 |
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| County Commissions and Committees |
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The 4th District has vacant appointments on the following commissions or committees:
- Oversight Board of the Successor to the City of Redevelopment Agency (Buena Park and Anaheim)
- Treasury Oversight Committee Member
- Bylaws
- Application
If you are interested in serving on one of these Committees, please call Audra Fishel at (714) 834.3440 |
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| OC Animal Care |
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| Events |
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Anaheim
What: Ribbon Cutting - Jerome’s Furniture
Where: 1021 N. Tustin Ave.
When: Thursday, September 25
Time: 12:30-1:30pm
What: Military Banner Event
Where: George Washington Park, 250 East Cypress Street
When: September 29
Time: 3:00pm
Brea
What: Brea Young Professionals: Wine Tasting & Fondue at The Melting Pot
Where: The Melting Pot, 375 W. Birch St #1 Brea, 92821
When: September 24
Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm
What: Tommy Lasorda’s 87th Birthday Charity Event
Where: Embassy Suites Brea – Ballroom, 900 E. Birch Street
When: September 25
Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm
Buena Park
What: Beautification-Environmental Commission meeting
Where: 6650 Beach Blvd.
When: Thursday, September 25
Time: 6:30pm
What: 58th Annual Silverado Days
Where: 7225 El Dorado Drive
When: October 17-19
Time: Friday 5:00pm-12:00am, Saturday 10:00am-12:00am, Sunday 8:00am-10:00pm
Fullerton
What: Gatsby’s Black and White Soiree
Where: The Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave.
When: September 25
Time: 6:30pm-10:00pm
What: Shared Visions Art Exhibit Grand Opening Reception
Where: Marshall B. Ketchum University’s Eye Center, 2575 Yorba Linda Blvd.
When: September 28
Time: 2:00pm
La Habra
What: La Habra Oktoberfest
Where: 1040 W. Imperial Highway
When: September 27-28
Time: Sat-3:00-11:00pm & Sunday 12:00-9:00pm
What: Connect Up at Corner Bakery
Where: La Habra Historical Museum 215 E. La Habra Blvd.
When: October 30
Time: 8:00am-9:00am
Placentia
What: End of Summer Bash
Where: American Legion Post 277, 230 S. Bradford Ave.
When: September 27
Time: 7:00-11:00pm
What: Candidates Forum
Where: City Council Chambers, 401 E. Chapman Ave.
When: September 30
Time: 6:30-9:00pm
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For questions or comments regarding Nelson’s E-News
please contact the Supervisor's office staff:
Mark Lopez – Phone: 714-834-3440 Email: Mark.Lopez@ocgov.com. |
