April 25, 2014 |
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Welcome to this edition of the Fifth District Report, an electronic newsletter keeping you updated about the events taking place in Orange County and in the Fifth District. It is my hope that you find this distribution informative and I would encourage you to contact me regarding any thoughts, comments, or concerns you may have.
PatBates@ocgov.com
IN THIS ISSUE...
1. SOUTH COUNTY NEWS
2. BOARD BULLETIN BOARD
3. TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
4. SAFETY SENTRY
5. HEALTH HERALD
6. SENIOR SENTINEL
7. VETERAN VANGUARD
8. HARBOR HAPPENINGS
9. NOTES FROM THE FIELD
10. ENVIRONMENTAL MEMOS
11. RECORDER RECORD
12. AIRPORT ARRIVALS
13. FIFTH DISTRICT SPOTLIGHT
14. SOUTH COUNTY CALENDAR
15. FIFTH DISTRICT WRAP-UP
OUR STAFF...
Don Hughes:
Chief of Staff
Sergio Prince:
Policy Advisor
Erik Weigand:
Policy Advisor
Emily Osterberg:
Policy Advisor
Veronica Yniguez:
Policy Advisor
Ruth Strachan:
Office Manager
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| SOUTH COUNTY NEWS |
2014 South Orange County Job Fair
The 2014 South Orange County Job Fair will be held Thursday, May 15 at the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, located at 24932 Veterans Way, Mission Viejo.
This popular annual event is held in partnership with my office, the County of Orange, Orange County Workforce Investment Board, and the City of Mission Viejo.
The general public is invited to attend from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with special early access from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM for Veterans and One-Stop registered job seekers. All jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally and bring copies of their resume.
For more information, please call (949) 341-8000 or click here, here and here.
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| BOARD BULLETIN BOARD |
No Board Meeting This Week
There was not a regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Supervisors this week. To view the 2014 Board meeting schedule, please click here.
Our next Board meeting will be held Tuesday, April 29. Regular Board meetings begin at 9:30 AM in the Hall of Administration. For Agenda & Meeting Information, please click here.
Live Internet broadcasts of Board of Supervisors meetings can be viewed online and are archived as video-on-demand. To view live and/or past Board meetings, please click here.
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| TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION |
The Toll Roads Removing Cash Collections May 14
As reported in my newsletter last week, The Toll Roads will be removing cash toll collection effective Wednesday, May 14. To that end, the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) recently introduced three new Express Account payment options that will give toll road drivers more options for paying tolls.
With the transponder-free ExpressAccounts, images of a vehicle’s license plate taken on The Toll Roads are linked to an account and the appropriate toll is collected. When customers sign up for an ExpressAccount, they may choose from one of three payment options:
- Prepaid – Customers open an account with a prepaid balance and tolls are deducted from the amount whenever they use The Toll Roads.
- Charge – At the end of each day, customers’ tolls are charged to the credit card on file for each trip on The Toll Roads.
- Invoice – Customers are sent an invoice at the close of the month for tolls incurred that month; no need to use a credit card or link a bank account to your account. This account type includes an invoice fee.
In addition to the ExpressAccount option, toll road users can explore two more options:
- FasTrak® - Customers with FasTrak, which uses transponder technology fixed to a vehicle’s windshield, will continue to pay the lowest toll and may be used on all toll roads, lanes, and bridges throughout California. FasTrak customers won’t have to make any changes to their accounts when cash collection ceases on the Toll Roads.
- One-Time Toll – Great for visitors and infrequent users! Customers can pay their toll within 48-hours of a trip online without creating an account or purchasing a transponder. To pay, please click here or download The Toll Roads mobile app.
In anticipation of The Toll Roads removing cash toll collection, TCA is offering new FasTrak and ExpressAccount customers a FREE week of nonstop driving as soon as they establish an account (PROMO CODE: FREETOLL). The offer ends May 11.
For more information, please click here, here and here.
The Toll Roads: VIEWSLETTER
The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) has released its latest edition of The Toll Roads VIEWSLETTER. To view the TCA publication, please click here.
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| SAFETY SENTRY |
DUI Saturation Patrols in South County
Deputies from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department DUI Enforcement Team will be deploying this weekend to stop and arrest alcohol and drug-impaired drivers in the Department’s ongoing traffic safety campaign.
DUI Saturation Patrols will deploy Friday, April 25 at 7:00 PM through Saturday, April 26 at 3:00 AM in the cities of Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods and Aliso Viejo. These patrols will be targeting areas with high frequencies of DUI collisions and/or arrests.
For more information, please click here.
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| HEALTH HERALD |
National Prescription Medication Take Back Day
Saturday, April 26 is National Prescription Medication Take Back Day. From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, please bring unwanted, unused and expired prescription medications to designated locations throughout Orange County, including the cities of Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita and San Juan Capistrano.
The event, which will be held rain or shine, is FREE and anonymous, no questions asked. For more information, please call (714) 647-4133 or click here, here, here and here.
Orange County Health Improvement Plan
The Orange County Health Care Agency and its partners are accepting comment on a plan to help improve the health of those who live, work and play in Orange County. The Orange County Health Improvement Plan is available for public comment through April 30.
Orange County’s overall health fares well compared to other counties in California. However, issues such as obesity and diabetes and increasing rates of Alzheimer’s disease in our aging population are of great concern.
The Orange County Health Improvement Plan identifies goals, objectives, and strategies for the following health areas:
- Infant and Child Health
- Older Adult Health
- Obesity and Diabetes
- Mental Health and Substance Use and improvements for Orange County’s Public Health System.
These areas address the greatest needs based on trends and disparities and provide the greatest opportunities to improve health through collaborative and coordinated efforts.
Please provide any comments or feedback about the plan to OCHIP@ochca.com. For more information, please click here and here. To view the Orange County Health Improvement Plan, please click here.
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| SENIOR SENTINEL |
Older and Dependent Adult Abuse
Abuse of older and dependent adults occurs at all income levels and in every city in Orange County. As such, Orange County Adult Protective Services (APS) is directed at preventing or remedying neglect, abuse or exploitation of adults who are unable to protect their own interests because of age or disability.
Adult Protective Services are provided without regard to income or resources. A client must live in Orange County and be the victim of abuse that occurred in the community. Whether you are a victim or suspect the abuse of someone you know, you are not alone when seeking help!
For more information, please click here and here or call the Orange County Adult Protective Services 24-Hour Hotline at 800-451-5155.
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| VETERAN VANGUARD |
Orange County Veterans Survey
The public is invited to participate in a research study to further understand the local needs of veterans and military family members. The study includes a survey, which is part of a larger effort aimed to evaluate local needs and identify gaps in veteran services.
Information gathered from the survey will be used to better understand the Orange County veteran and military family population. The information will also help develop and share a “best practices” model regarding veteran services with other cities across the nation.
For more information, please click here.
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| HARBOR HAPPENINGS |
Dana Point Harbor: Island Way and Bridge Repairs
OC Public Works Construction has advised that a significant phase of the construction project in Dana Point Harbor will occur next week as follows:
- Asphalt grinding and pavement placement – Monday, April 28 and Tuesday, April 29
- Asphalt Cap – Wednesday, April 30
The bridge and road will be open with one lane closure during working hours and open for 2-way traffic in the evening and weekends. We ask for your patience as you transit through the construction area your vehicle and/or vessel. Please obey all posted notices and onsite construction staffs’ instructions. If you must traverse through the construction area, please do so with caution.
For more information, please click here.
Dana Point Harbor Revitalization
OC Dana Point Harbor has updated the Dana Point Harbor Revitalization link on its website. For more information, please click here.
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| NOTES FROM THE FIELD |
Heritage Hill Historical Park: Rancho Fiesta Days
Orange County’s Heritage Hill Historical Park, located in the City of Lake Forest, consists of 4.1 acres and includes four fully restored and furnished historic buildings that span the early history of Saddleback Valley and the El Toro area from the Mexican Rancho era (Serrano Adobe, circa 1863), to the founding of the town of El Toro (El Toro Grammar School, 1890; St. George's Episcopal Mission, 1891), through the citrus farming days of the early twentieth century (Harvey Bennett Ranch House, 1908).
The public is invited to enjoy Rancho Fiesta Days at Heritage Hill Historical Park and explore the rich history of Orange County's past – from Native American tribes to the Rancho period – through hands-on activities, crafts, music and dance Sunday, May 4 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
For more information, please click here and here.
Caspers Water Line Project May Affect Amenities
A critical water line replacement project at Caspers Wilderness Park, located in the City of San Juan Capistrano, is scheduled to begin in June and will last until November. During this time, amenities such as flushing toilets, showers, and drinking water may be unavailable. Portable toilets and wash stations will be available throughout the park.
For more information, please contact the park office at (949) 923-2210.
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| ENVIRONMENTAL MEMOS |
Cox Conserves Heroes
Cox Communications is proud to present Orange County's third annual Cox Conserves Heroes program. Created in partnership with The Trust for Public Land, the program recognizes local environmental volunteers and donates $15,000 to local nonprofits on their behalf.
Whether it's planting a community garden, organizing a beach cleanup, or educating the public on the importance of conservation, show your appreciation by submitting a Cox Conserves Heroes nomination.
2014 Timeline:
- Nominations: Now through May 21 (5:00 PM)
- Voting: Mid-July
- Winner Announcement: Mid-August
For more information, please click here, here and here.
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| RECORDER RECORD |
Clerk-Recorder’s Special Saturday Hours Continue
Over 1,248 guests were present April 12 at Orange County Clerk-Recorder offices to witness loved ones “tie the knot” during the Clerk-Recorder’s special Saturday hours. The department expects activity to continue to increase as the summer season approaches.
The Old County Courthouse will again be open Saturday, May 17 and June 21 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM for marriage licenses, civil marriage ceremonies and passport applications. The Orange County Archives will be open as well. Passport services are only available at the Old County Courthouse in Santa Ana.
The department’s branch offices in Fullerton and Laguna Hills will also be open for copies of property records, vital records, marriage licenses and civil marriage ceremonies. FREE parking will be available at all three locations. Appointments are recommended.
For more information, please click here.
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| AIRPORT ARRIVALS |
Boingo Selected JWA's Wireless Network Partner
Boingo Wireless has been selected John Wayne Airport's (JWA) new wireless network partner. Boingo will provide comprehensive connectivity services for the Airport per the terms of a long-term agreement and will expand JWA's existing free Wi-Fi service into areas not previously covered by Wi-Fi, boost cellular coverage, and improve overall wireless connectivity capacity.
Ad-supported free Wi-Fi service will continue to be available to all travelers, enabled by the Boingo Media platform. The new network will also be Passpoint-enabled, providing seamless access to a secure Wi-Fi network using the industry's latest technologies. Users who have Passpoint-capable devices and have installed a Passpoint profile will automatically be connected to the WPA2-encrypted network.
For more information, please click here.
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| FIFTH DISTRICT SPOTLIGHT |
Laguna Beach Artist on Exhibit at John Wayne Airport
A selection of ceramic tile artworks by Laguna Beach artist Mike Tauber are on exhibit through Thursday, May 8 in the Thomas F. Riley Terminal, as part of John Wayne Airport's Community Focus Space Program.
Mike's works 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.
For more information, please click here.
State Group Honors Cemeterian of the Year
Bill Nelson, Chairman of the Orange County Cemetery District, was recently named Cemeterian of the Year by the California Association of Public Cemeteries. Bill has been with the special district, headquartered at El Toro Memorial Park in the City of Lake Forest, for more than 10 years.
The award, presented at the association’s annual conference in March, is given to an individual who has “accepted responsibilities and performed services over and above the norm,” according to the Association. Bill, the association said, has continually maintained high professional standards, has been an outstanding contributor to the association and has exhibited excellent qualities in the cemetery profession.
For more information, please click here and here.
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| SOUTH COUNTY CALENDAR |
Laguna Beach: Healthy Girl Festival
Soroptimist International of Laguna Beach is hosting the 2014 Healthy Girl Festival on the Festival of Arts grounds Sunday, April 27 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The theme this year, Educate Girls and Change the World, was inspired by the courage of Afghani schoolgirl Malala Yousafzai, who was shot by the Taliban for simply going to school. For more information, please click here and here.
Lake Forest: USMC Battalion Adoption Ceremony
Guests will have a chance to meet over 150 Marines the community will “adopt” Saturday, May 3 at the USMC 1st Law Enforcement Battalion Adoption Ceremony. The event begins at 9:30 AM at El Toro High School and includes a parade, band, weapons displays, Humvees and tactical vehicles, and FREE food and refreshments. For more information, please click here.
Aliso Viejo: Aquatic Center Opening Day Celebration
The Aliso Viejo Aquatic Center is hosting an Opening Day celebration Saturday, May 3, featuring a fabulous day of swimming and fun from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For more information, please click here.
Rancho Santa Margarita: Is Your Teen at Risk?
Parents and their teens are encouraged to attend a forum titled “Is Your Teen at Risk?”, featuring a panel of expert speakers Thursday, May 8 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Bell Tower Regional Community Center in Rancho Santa Margarita. This class is FREE but pre-registration is required. For more information, please click here.
Laguna Niguel: Business Training Workshop
The City of Laguna Niguel will provide a FREE business training workshop on social media marketing to help local businesses be successful. The workshop will take place Wednesday, May 14 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Laguna Niguel City Hall Community Room. A light dinner will be provided. For more information, please click here.
South County: Laguna Hills Memorial Day Half Marathon
Memorial Day, May 26, marks the 16th annual City of Laguna Hills Memorial Day Half Marathon, 5k, and 10K, honoring the U.S. Marine Corps Dark Horse Battalion. This favorite Memorial Day running event takes place in the beautiful South County cities of Laguna Hills, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Woods and Laguna Niguel. For more information, please click here and here.
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| FIFTH DISTRICT WRAP-UP |
In addition to my many meetings, briefings, and other supervisorial activities, I also:
- Attended a WTS Orange County Chapter reception, where I was recognized as being among the 13 Most Influential People for my commitment to advance women in transportation and support of the WTS Orange County Chapter.
- Attended the National Republican Senatorial Committee Reception.
My office also:
- Attended the 7th Annual Essentials for Young Lives Donation Drive Luncheon hosted by HomeAid Orange County in partnership with the Children and Families Commission of Orange County.
My staff and I look forward to continually providing you updated information in our Fifth District Newsletter and website.
Please feel free to contact my office with your concerns, comments or questions at (714) 834-3550. It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your Supervisor for Orange County's Fabulous Fifth District.
For an ADA version of our newsletter, click here.
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