| 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 next board meeting will be Tuesday, December 12th 9:30am in the Hall of Administration – 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana 92701. The agenda may be accessed here.
Please see photos and descriptions below of some of the events our office attended in the community this week. If you were unable to attend, there are other events listed at the end of this newsletter.
Sincerely,
Shawn Nelson |
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| County Updates |
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| OCTA Marks Finish of O.C. Bridges Projects |
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Last month, transportation and city officials marked the completion of the final two underpasses in the O.C. Bridges program. During the last five years and at a cost of $663 million, this program built a total of seven bridges and underpasses to separate car and pedestrian traffic from the busy freight rail line running through the cities of Fullerton, Anaheim and Placentia.
Each overpass and underpass completed improves travel times, cuts air pollution by eliminating car idling at railroad gates and enhances safety in the community. At least 70 trains travel the busy BNSF rail line each day, with the number of trains projected to increase to 130 trains each day by 2030. Without the bridges and underpasses, one of these trains – occasionally up to a mile long – would block one of the intersections every 10 minutes.
Both Fullerton projects, as with each of the seven O.C. Bridges projects, is significantly funded by Measure M, the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements renewed by Orange County voters in 2006.
Measure M funding accounts for about $157 million of the O.C. Bridges program, which helped leverage state and federal transportation to fund the rest. State funding paid the largest portion of building the grade separations, at $262 million of the program.
The underpass at Raymond Avenue, which cost approximately $124.8 million, has already partially opened to traffic, with one lane open in each direction. All lanes will be open to traffic by mid-February.V
Finishing touches, including electrical work, landscaping and final striping, are being completed at the State College Boulevard underpass. It cost approximately $97 million and is scheduled to open to traffic November 1.
Through the O.C. Bridges program, previous underpasses have opened at Placentia Avenue and Kraemer Boulevard, as well as bridges over the rail line at Lakeview Avenue, Orangethorpe Avenue, and Tustin Avenue/Rose Drive. Each of those projects is near the border of Anaheim and Placentia. For a video of the crossing construction, click here, and for more information on O.C. Bridges, click here. |
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| Santa Claus is Coming to Town for 25th Annual Stuff-A-Bus
The yearly event brings people together to help collect toys for local kids in need during the holidays. |
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Those looking to make Santa’s nice list this year can do so by donating toys at the 25th annual Stuff-A-Bus event on Friday, Dec. 15 at the Honda Center in Anaheim.
The public is encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys or sporting equipment to the Honda Center west parking lot at 2695 E. Katella Ave. in Anaheim from 4:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Toys will be distributed to children in need throughout the community.
ABC7 will be on-site to broadcast the event and greet the public, while firefighters from across Southern California will help collect and load the toys.
Last year, 28 buses full of donated toys and bicycles were filled. This year, the event sponsors – including OCTA, ABC 7, Honda Center and the Anaheim Ducks – hope residents will come out to donate even more toys.
All donations benefit the Spark of Love Toy Drive, a program that has collected more than 10 million toys for kids in Southern California over the past 25 years. |
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| In the Community |
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| Tamale Festival |
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Congratulations to Rosalina Davis of Tlaquepaque Restaurant and chairman of the Santa Fe Merchants Associations for putting together another epic night of fun at their annual Tamale Festival/ Las Posadas event in Old Town Placentia.
Community groups, civic teams, bands and vendors filled the streets before the 4 pm kickoff when thousands work their way to the dozen Mexican restaurant teams that set up canopies and serve the best fresh tamales in OC!
Supervisor Nelson joined Policy Advisor Steve Spernak at his outreach booth to meet hundreds of residents in person who walk up to talk, explain their issues or opinions directly to the Supervisor or just take a few minutes to say hello and happy holidays.
Approximately ten thousand attend the annual event and enjoy the kickoff of the Christmas season buys fresh hand-made tamales and enjoying the Mariachi Divas deliver a fun concert of singing and orchestra fun with violins and horns.
Special thanks to Mayor Craig Green, the City of Placentia staff, Santa Fe Merchants, Chief Daryl Lenyi’s Police and Explorers and the Public Works team lead by Steve Pischel for the planning, parking, public safety and that lead to a fantastic night of food and fun in Placentia !! |
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Supervisor Nelson shared the fun with Mayor Craig Green and Councilman Chad Wanke.
Supervisor Nelson joined Policy Advisor Steve Spernak at his County community resources-services booth.
Karen Pena and Alicia De La Luz hug teddy bears that Supervisor will donate to kids at the 13th MEU. |
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| Francisco Burciaga Honored by Supervisor |
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In one of the more emotional moments that Supervisor Nelson has to deal with are the presentations of his commendations that honor the service and passing of military, Veterans of Public Safety members who are lost in the line of duty.
But this story was an exception and one that the Supervisor was proud to partner with the OC Veterans Service Office and The Dream Foundation in honoring Navy Veteran Frank Burciaga of Placentia.
Frank, as he is called, was a 78 year old Veteran who was diagnosed with terminal cancer and through family members made contact with the OCVSO in Renee Ramirez and Eddie Falcon with their situation.
From there, the story got to The Dream Foundation who provides free travel and hotel to Veterans who are at the end of their life’s journey and down to a last travel escape, much like the “Make a Wish” program.
Last week, Policy Advisor Steve Spernak joined Falcon and Ramirez for a visit to Frank’s home in Placentia and delivered the incredible news that he and his wife, Carrie, were leaving December 1 for a 4-night stay in Waikiki and a boat trip to explore Pearly Harbor and visit the WW11 memorial at the USS Arizona.
Supervisor Nelson delivered a signed Lifetime Achievement to Frank not only for his work as Navy radioman on two destroyers, the USS Fessenden and the USS Turner Joy, but for the thousands of hours he donated to Pop Warner football, coaching little league, and running a pre-school and at-risk youth community center along with a wellness clinic.
Special thanks to the Dream Foundation, The OC Veterans Services Office and Burciaga Family who made this magical moment so special for one of America’s Best and Bravest in Francisco Buriaga !! |
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Policy Advisor Steve Spernak delivered Veteran’s Day commendation to Frank Burciaga. |
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| We Give Thanks 2017 |
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Congratulations to the planning team, volunteers and cooks who delivered another fantastic gesture of thanks to thousands of attending the 31st annual “ We Give Thanks” event this year.
Hosted by Frank Garcia and his foundation, the Thanksgiving venue kicked off with prayers and blessings as Frank welcomed the crowds then cut the ceremonial turkey that prompted the gates to open to thousands who came for the free holiday meal his team prepared at the Honda Center.
The foundation is a give-back gesture to the community for supporting Casa Garcia restaurants that Frank has owned for over 30 years.
Staff members in Deputy Chief of Staff Mark Lopez and Policy Advisor Steve Spernak attend to represent Supervisor Nelson’s commitment to the charity and supporting teams and organizations who put the holiday event together the last 30 years.
Sincere thanks to the Wells Fargo team of volunteer food-servers and management staff that donated $50,000 to the Foundation to offer academic scholarships to top OC students.
Best wishes and blessings to Frank Garcia for this incredible program to feed the hungry and homeless in OC !! |
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Policy Advisor Steve Spernak joined Deputy Chief of Staff Mark Lopez at morning ceremonies.
Mark Lopez stopped to thank Mayor Tom Tait
Steve Spernak delivered Supervisor Nelson’s congratulations certificate to Frank Garcia. |
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| La Habra Mayor Rose Espinoza Honored |
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Supervisor Nelson was honored to recognize outgoing La Habra Mayor Rose Espinoza at the City Council change of command meeting this week in La Habra.
Mayor Espinoza was thrilled to accept her laurels and thanks from Senate, Congress, Assembly and County representatives and kind words of thanks from Mark Sturdivant of the La Habra Chamber of Commerce.
In a lighter moment, after formal ceremonies, Policy Advisor Steve Spernak presented the Mayor with a photo of her and Spernak laughing together during the photo-ops held during the opening ceremonies of the new City Hall and Community Center.
The picture was a framed moment- in -time to honor the woman who navigated the financing and construction of the restored building that became a jewel of the city for citizens who want to host events, civic events and community programs.
The new City Hall is only one element of her success, explained incoming Mayor Tim Shaw.
Ms. Espinoza was also instrumental in shaping the Citrus Festival, Corn Festival and the new Tamale Festival that kicked-off this year with a crowd over twenty five thousand enjoying a fun family night.
Toss in the renovation of the Police station and asphalt improvements on Lambert by the Home Depot to the list, along with terrific programs for children she helped pioneer and projects addressing homeless and business development, it was a night of success for a very special community leader.
Ending her term as Mayor, the city also saw that she was one of only 2 members in the history of the city to be Mayor twice in their careers since 1927 incorporation!
Best wishes and blessings Mayor Espinoza. |
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Policy Advisor Steve Spernak delivered commendation and congratulations from Supervisor Nelson. |
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| Western High School Student-athletes Celebrated |
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Congratulation commendations were delivered this week to Coach Dan Davidson for delivery at the Western High School Football Award night banquet.
The Pioneers varsity football program was a work in progress for Coach Davidson and his staff in a building year with young players led by some impressive upper-classmen and incredible performances in the very tough Empire League.
Most notably was the 2 point loss to Katella, 31-28. Western came within a fumble and last minute score to lose to Katella that went on to win the CIF Southern Section Div 11 after their scare with Davidson’s upstarts.
The year had its challenges with later loses to Irvine, Tustin, Valencia, Pacifica, and Cypress all of whom made CIF playoff berths to give you an idea how tough Western had it.
The good news: 17 players are coming back and they move to a new league.
Congratulations were delivered on behalf of Supervisor Nelson to some very special players for their outstanding performances on the field in 2017.
John Olejabi was selected MVP along with selection as First Team All-Empire League.
Anthony Munoz received Offensive Player of the Year and First Team All-Empire League as well as finishing 6th in OC passing.
Congrats to other honorees went to Cole Howard (Character Award), Caine Savage( Playmaker and All-League), Moises Flores(Lineman of the Year), James Mendoza (Back and First Team All-League), Joseph Rodriguez (Scholar), Joseph Medina(Coaches Award), Max Perez (Courage Award and 2nd Team All-League), Cassius Savage (Most Improved and 2nd Team All-League).
Jacob Domino won school honors as Defensive Player of the Year and 2nd Team All-Empire League for his aggressive defensive stands and defiant leadership as a team defensive role-model.
Isiah Robert received Practice Player of the Year for his work on replicating opposing teams so Western could learn keys and sets to stop some of the best teams in OC.
Congratulation certs will later be presented to Coach Davidson as one of the top new coaches in the 4th District along with honors to parents leading the Booster Club! |
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Policy Advisor Steve Spernak (lower left) and Deputy Chief of Staff Mark Lopez(upper left) supported Western HS at the WAND BBQ. |
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| County Commissions and Committees |
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The Fourth District has vacant appointments on the following commissions or committees:
- Assessment Appeals Board No.1
- Orange County Visitors Association
If you are interested in serving on one of these committees, please call Audra Fishel at (714) 834-3440. |
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| Pet of the Week |
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Click on the image above to view a larger version. |
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Click on the image above to view a larger version. |
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| Events |
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City of Anaheim Events
What: Anaheim Chamber Leads Lunch
When: December 13
Where: Camelot, 3200 E Carpenter Ave, Anaheim
Time: 11:30am-1:00pm
What: Holiday Open House
When: December 14
Where: Anaheim Chamber-Core Strategies offices, 2099 S State College #600, Anaheim
Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm
City of Brea Events
What: Lead$ Lunch
When: December 13
Where: Embassy Suites, 900 E Birch St, Brea
Time: 11:45am-1:15pm
What: 2017 Annual Installation & Awards Luncheon
When: December 14
Where: Embassy Suites, 900 E Birch St, Brea
Time: 11:00am-1:30pm
City of Buena Park Events
What: 5th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Toy Drive
When: December 8
Where: Buena Park City Hall, 6650 Beach Blvd, Buena Park
Time: 6:00pm-9:30pm
What: Holiday Heartbeat, a Holiday Music Series
When: December 9 & 10
Where: The Source, 6940 Beach Blvd, Buena Park
Time: 4:00pm
City of Fullerton Events
What: Fullerton Community Center Hosts-Home Along Merry Nite Drive-in
When: December 8
Where: Fullerton Community Center, 340 W Commonwealth Ave, Fullerton
Time: Doors open 5:30pm, Movie starts 6:15pm, Santa Claus Photo session 6:00pm-7:30pm
What: Muckenthaler’s Annual Holiday Festival
When: December 17
Where: Muckenthaler Mansion, 1201 W Malvern Ave, Fullerton
Time: 12:00pm-4:00pm
City of La Habra Events
What: Coffee with a Cop
When: December 9
Where: Casa Adelita Mexican Restaurant, 340 E La Habra Blvd, La Habra
Time: 8:00am-10:00am
What: Connectup at Corner Bakery, La Habra Chamber of Commerce
When: December 14
Where: Corner Bakery, 1040 W Imperial Hwy, La Habra
Time: 8:00am-9:00am
City of Placentia Events
What: Holiday Merriment at Placentia Library
When: December 9
Where: Placentia Library, Quiet Study Area
Time: 1:00pm-2:00pm
What: Certified Farmers Market
When: December 12
Where: SW Corner of Yorba Linda and Kraemer Blvds
Time: 4:00pm-8:00pm
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For questions or comments regarding Nelson’s E-News
please contact the Supervisor's office staff:
Audra Fishel – Phone: (714) 834-3440, Email: Audra.Fishel@ocgov.com. |
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Denis Bilodeau
Chief of Staff
Mark Lopez
Deputy Chief of Staff
George Cardenas
Policy Advisor
Audra Fishel
Policy Advisor /
Communications Director
Steve Spernak
Policy Advisor
Natalie Wieckert
Policy Advisor
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