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| Board of Supervisors |
New Social Services Agency Director
The Board of Supervisors recently approved the appointment of
Dr. Michael Riley as the new Director of the Social Services Agency, effective July 30, 2010.
I have served with Dr. Riley for the last two years on the Children's Services Coordination Committee and I have seen his tremendous commitment to children and families. His knowledge and experience make him the right choice for this position and I look forward to continue to work with Dr. Riley.
I also want to extend my best wishes to Ingrid Harita who is retiring as Social Services Agency Director after 27 years of service to Orange County. I know there are many residents in this County, including thousands of children and families, who have greatly benefitted from Ingrid's compassion and expertise throughout the years. Again, I want to thank her for her many years of service and wish her a happy and fulfilling retirement.
Emergency Medical Services Quality Assurance Appointees
I want to congratulate two of the newest Health Care Agency appointees to the Emergency Medical Services Quality Assurance Committee. James McDuffie, a resident of Westminster, is currently a firefighter with the City of Anaheim and an instructor and department chair with the Coastline Regional Occupational Program. Tammi McConnell, a resident of Santa Ana, currently is a Charge Nurse at Western Medical Center in Santa Ana. Both of these individuals bring medical backgrounds and extensive experience to this committee and I look forward to working with them.
Midway City Street and Storm Drain Improvements
At the July 27, 2010 meeting, the Board of Supervisors voted to approve agreements with the City of Westminster and the Midway Sanitary District for construction of Midway City street and storm drain improvements for the City of Westminster, Huntington Beach, and Midway City.
The County of Orange has had this project on the drawing board for over 20 years. After being elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2007, I made a commitment to work with the Board and the staff to locate a funding source for this project. We were able to locate funding through Proposition 1B and Proposition 42.
With its streets mostly constructed in the 1920's, Midway City remains very flat and highly subject to flooding. This project calls for the construction of a storm drain system that will significantly reduce flooding for residences during our rainy years. Additionally, street improvements will allow for increased water flow.
Veterans' Employment Related Assistance Program
On December 15, 2009, the Board authorized staff to submit a Veterans' Employment-Related Assistance Program (VEAP) application to the State of California Employment Development Department (EDD). Under this proposal, the OCWIB will lead a partnership with institutions of higher learning, community and other veterans' service organizations to provide employment and training services in high demand and high growth occupations. The grant will serve 140 Veterans that have been discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces within the last four years, as well as other campaign Veterans and Veterans with disabilities.
On June 10, 2010, EDD approved federal grant funding for the Orange County VEAP in the amount of $989,893. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Orange and Los Angeles counties represent one of the largest Veteran populations in the nation. During the past four years, through opportunities such as this Veterans collaboration, the OCWIB has developed a great partnership with the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos. The Base provides space for the OCWIB's One-Stop employment and training services to be available at the Veterans Service Center. Veterans and their families can access many programs and services at the Center.
Edinger Storm Channel Improvement Project
The Edinger Storm Channel Improvement Project requires implementation of improvements from Interstate 405 (I-405) approximately 65 feet west of Newland Street to approximately 1,646 feet upstream of Edinger Avenue. The existing undercrossing at the I-405 and the concrete-lined trapezoidal channel, which were constructed in 1963, do not provide sufficient flood control capacity to convey the 100-year storm runoff.
The improvements to the Edinger Storm Channel and its intersection with the East Garden Grove-Wintersburg Channel under the I 405 Freeway will reduce the risk of flooding for residents and businesses in the City of Westminster, unincorporated Midway City and Huntington Beach. The successful low-bidder came in at more than $4 million below the engineer's estimate.
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| Boards and Commissions |
OCTA
Federal Process Improvement Initiative: Breaking the Barriers to Generate Jobs
At the July 26th Board meeting, OCTA staff gave an update regarding OCTA's Federal processes improvement initiative. This initiative seeks to cut down the government administrative barriers to get projects up and running, thus creating more local jobs.
Over the past year, OCTA developed this initiative to conduct comprehensive improvements in project programming, development and contracting that would save months and possibly years, between the announcement of transportation funding decisions and the actual job generation inhibited by overlapping regulatory steps in the process.
OCTA has developed support for this process with the White House, the Federal Highway Administration, Congressional leadership and several large state Departments of Transportation. The Board will continue to watch and I will continue to provide updates as this initiative continues to progress and gain outside support.
Measure M2 Early Action Plan Update
OCTA is implementing the Measure M2 Early Action Plan as approved by the Board on July 16, 2007. OCTA is now past the half-way mark on the early action plan time line and remains on schedule in delivering all elements of the plan as promised. New projects are recommended as additions to the plan and funding assumptions will be brought to the Board at a later date.
New recommendations include initiating design work for the I 5 project from Avenida Pico to Pacific Coast Highway; adding the SR 55 project from the I 405 to the I 5; adding the I 5 project from the SR 73 to the vicinity of the El Toro Y; adding the I 5 project from the SR 55 to the SR 57; adding the SR 91 westbound project from the SR 55 to Tustin Avenue; adding the Orangethorpe Corridor and Sand Canyon Avenue grade separation projects; and amending the FY 2010-2011 budget to include $35 million of Measure M2 funding for professional services to support the various projects being added to the Early Action Plan.
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| Health Bulletin |
Whooping Cough Cases Increase in Orange County
According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), "Pertussis has reached an epidemic level in California. For the first six months of this year, 1,337 cases of pertussis were reported, a five-fold increase from the same period last year.Five infants, all under the age of three months, have died of pertussis this year."
In Orange County there have been 122 pertussis (whooping cough) cases and no pertussis-related deaths reported thus far this year. Pertussis is cyclical and cases tend to peak every two to five years. In 2005, Orange County's last peak year, 37 cases of pertussis were reported.
Pertussis is a highly contagious disease and under-immunized infants are particularly vulnerable. Vaccination against whooping cough begins at age two months, but full protection isn't complete until the last of three shots at age 6 months, this is why it is important that those caring for infants get vaccinated against pertussis.
On July 19th the CDPH broadened recommendations for immunizing against pertussis. "In addition to the typical series of childhood pertussis immunizations, CDPH now recommends an adolescent-adult pertussis booster vaccine (Tdap) for:
- anyone 7 years and older who is not fully immunized, including those who are more than 64 years old,
- women of childbearing age, before, during, or immediately after pregnancy, and
- other people who have contact with pregnant women or infants."
The vaccine is widely available from medical providers, including community clinics throughout Orange County. Individuals that do not have medical insurance covering the vaccination or who are unable to obtain the vaccination from their healthcare provider may obtain the vaccine free of charge from the Health Care Agency's Immunization Clinic located at 1725 W. 17th Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706, Monday through Friday from 8-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. For more information, visit the Health Care Agency's website at http://ochealthinfo.com or call the Health Referral Line at 1-800-564-8448.
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| Youth Connection |
The Power of an Untapped Resource: A Guide for Youth
"WE CANNOT ALWAYS BUILD THE FUTURE FOR OUR YOUTH, BUT WE CAN BUILD OUR YOUTH FOR THE FUTURE." - FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT
EMPLOYMENT
Workforce Investment Act
This program emphasizes long-term development of 16-21 year olds who are deficient in basic skills or have barriers to employment. Through a network of regional providers, the WIA Youth Program focuses on academic skills improvement; alternative education services; summer employment opportunities; career exploration and preparation; comprehensive guidance counseling; paid/unpaid work experience; occupational skills training; leadership skills development and opportunities; supportive services such as assistance with transportation, child care, school supplies and follow up services.
Youth Employment Opportunities Program
The Employment Development Department provides a youth program for ages 15 through 21 at risk of not achieving their educational goals, such as potential dropouts or high school dropouts. The program is to assist youth in achieving their educational and vocational goals with an emphasis on education, assessment and peer advising. For additional information, please call (714) 241-4951.
CAREER-HELP WANTED
California CareerZone
Information about 900 California occupations; including day-in-the-life videos for 300 of the occupations.
Who Do U Want 2 B
Information on California high school and community college courses, career options, and financial assistance.
Roadtrip Nation
Video interviews created by college students traveling the country in green RVs, from bakers to technology gurus.
Career Clues
Activities designed to help students gather and interpret important information about themselves and what they want from their lives.
EDUCATION
California Colleges.edu
Information about more than 200 colleges (public and private) in California.
College Navigator
Information about nearly 7,000 postsecondary institutions in the United States.
INTERNSHIP
County of Orange
Internships with the County of Orange offer high school students, college students and recent graduates an opportunity to partner with one of the premier employers in the region as they explore career options and apply their academic skills and knowledge to the workplace. Please keep in mind that the internships are unpaid positions that do not automatically lead to employment. For additional information and inquires, please contact Jane Dawson at (714) 834-7440 or jane.dawson@ocgov.com.
VOLUNTEERING
Volunteer Center Orange County
Looking for volunteer opportunities? "I Can Volunteer" is a guide to youth volunteer opportunities throughout the county compiled by Volunteer Center Orange County. These agency projects are ideal for you to volunteer on your own, with your friends, or with family members. Click here to view or print the guide.
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| JANET AROUND THE FIRST DISTRICT |
Supervisor Janet Nguyen, Chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, celebrates the 7th Anniversary of the Image Center Pictured (L-R) co-owner Dr. Katherine Ahn, DDS; Chair Janet Nguyen; and co-owner Dr. Peter Newen.
Supervisor Janet Nguyen, Chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, joins her colleagues and staff in congratulating the newest graduates of the Orange County Leadership Academy at the July 20, 2010, Board of Supervisors meeting.
Supervisor Janet Nguyen, Chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, is joined by Supervisor John Moorlach in honoring retiring Orange County Social Services Agency Director Ingrid Harita for her 27 years of dedicated service to the County and its residents.
Supervisor Janet Nguyen, Chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, joins Reserve Lt. Doug Williams in honoring Taffy, the Orange County Sheriff Department's retiring bloodhound. Taffy has been on the job for more than 10 years and will be replaced by Reese, a four-month old bloodhound currently being trained.
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| LOCAL ISSUES |
* The following articles are for informational purposes only and are not necessarily intended to imply endorsement or support.
Orange County
Central County Senior & Caregiver Summit
County Community Services Center Receives National Award
The County Community Service Center (CCSC) received the National Association of Counties' (NACo) 2010 Achievement Award. NACo is the national organization that represents county government before the Administration and Congress, and provides essential services to the nation's counties. The annual NACo Achievement Awards recognizes innovative county government programs that help to modernize county government and increase its services to residents.
Congratulations to the staff at the CCSC and thank you for all your hard work. The CCSC is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Representatives from the Orange County Health Care Agency, Social Services Agency and Office on Aging are available to meet with county residents and provide information on designated days. The Center is located at 15460 Magnolia Street, Westminster, CA. For more information call (714) 889-4105, or visit the website at www.ochealthinfo.com/ccsc.
Extension of AlertOC Program
AlertOC, Orange County's Regional Emergency Notification System will soon be utilized by Orange County Water Agencies. Interested OC Water Agencies will join the County and 32 OC cities currently using the shared system to communicate urgent information to the public during times of emergency.
An example of a water emergency would be when unsafe water conditions require water consumers to take proactive action such as not drinking tap water or boiling water first. The Municipal Water District of Orange County anticipates that 12 water agencies will participate in the AlertOC program.
OCW&R Waste Free OC Campaign Receives Award Recognition
OC Waste & Recycling received an award for its Public Outreach and Education campaign, Waste Free OC, Save Room for Tomorrow by the North American Hazardous Materials Management Association (NAHMMA).
The award ceremonies were part of the 25th Annual NAHMMA National Conference held on July 26 - 30, 2010, in St. Petersburg, Florida. The organization has a membership of 400, consisting of government agencies, non-profit organizations and businesses committed to the reduction and management of hazardous wastes from households and small businesses.
The NAHMMA award is in recognition of the positive impact that the public outreach program has had on the community. The campaign's call to action to reduce waste by "10% in 2010," encourages residents and businesses to change just a few habits to reduce their waste by 10%. The campaign's interactive website, wastefreeoc.com, introduces individuals to reduction, reuse and recycling behaviors. Residents are provided community specific information, a calendar of events, education and training materials and more resources to help to keep almost 1.5 million pounds of waste out of the county landfill each day.
The Waste Free OC campaign was further recognized for its partnership with schools and the Discovery Science Center to develop assembly programs to expand the educational outreach, teaching children to participate in recycling and reuse activities.
OC Waste & Recycling was nominated by Clean Harbors, a County vendor that manages the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers. NAHMMA views OC Waste & Recycling's Waste Free OC campaign as a model for other waste and recycling programs that if adopted nationwide would change behaviors that will result in reduced waste and save room for tomorrow.
Summer Swim Lessons & Pool Safety
The American Red Cross Orange County Chapter urges everyone to pay close attention to the safety of our children. Summer is a season where many accidents occur to young children, and therefore knowing swimming pool safety is essential to mitigate this problem. Free safety brochures are available at your local fire station. CPR and First Aid Classes are available at the American Red Cross Orange County Chapter. For more information call Steve Pham (714)481-5391 or email him at spham@oc-redcross.org.
The following is a list of phone and email contacts for summer swim classes by city and organization:
Summer Family Film Series
OC Parks and Downtown Inc. have partnered to provide residents with a Summer Family Film Series at the Old Orange County Courthouse located at 211 W. Santa Ana Boulevard.
On Saturday, August 7th features "Hey There, It's Yogi Bear" and Saturday September 4th features "Brother Bear." Each film is free and will be shown at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Everyone is invited to enjoy free tours of the Old Courthouse as well as gourmet food vendors.
For more information, visit www.ocparks.com/oldcourthouse or www.downtown-santaana.com.
Orange County Mental Health Board Vacancies
The Orange County Mental Health Board now has four vacancies. The OC Mental Health Board reviews, evaluates and makes recommendations regarding the County's mental health planning process, and makes recommendations to the behavioral Health Director and the Board of Supervisors.
Qualified board members must work or reside within Orange County, may not work for Orange County or a contracted agency/provider, and must attend two meetings per month in Santa Ana. Members must also be direct consumers of mental health services, a professional in the mental health field, or have public interest in mental health. For more information please contact Danielle Daniels at Behavioral Health Services, at (714) 834-5481, or email at ddaniels@ochca.com.
Avoid Foreclosure Scams
The Orange County Home Ownership Preservation Collaborative (OCHOPC) will host a resource event on how to avoid foreclosure scams. The event will be at the Anaheim Downtown Community Center on Monday, August 9, 2010 from 8:30 a.m. to Noon. The Anaheim Downtown Center is located at 259 E. Center Street, Anaheim 92801.
Garden Grove
Farmers' Market Returns to Garden Grove
The Garden Grove farmers' market has finally returned. For more than a year, Main Street has been without the familiar Sunday farmers' market. Beginning August 1st, 16 farmers and 40 vendors will occupy the same location on Main Street between Garden Grove and Acacia. There will be more of a focus on bringing in local farmers and revitalizing the downtown area.
Home Improvement Grants Available
Beginning July 1st, the City of Garden Grove made funding available for the senior Rehabilitation Grant Program and the Mobile Home Rehabilitation Grant Program. The grant programs help qualified low to moderate-income residents receive up to $5,000 to make affordable home improvements. Some home repairs include but are not limited to window replacement, exterior painting, roof replacement, tree removal, and handicap accessibility modifications.
Funds are limited and will be distributed on a first come, first-served basis. Eligible residents must meet all income and application requirements. Information and applications are now available on the City's website, www.ci.garden-grove.ca.us, and at the Community Development Department on the third floor of City Hall, 11222 Acacia Parkway. For more information call (714) 741-5533, or (714) 741-5330.
Summer Concerts Series
Every Thursday night, between July 8th and August 19th, concertgoers can enjoy great music at Eastgate Park, brought to you by the Garden Grove Community Foundation. The music starts at 6:30 p.m. each
The 2010 Schedule is:
| August 5: |
No Duh - a No Doubt tribute |
| August 12: |
Springsteen - a Bruce Springsteen tribute |
| August 19: |
Don't Stop Believin' - a Journey tribute |
New Buena Clinton Youth and Family Center Open
On July 13, 2010 the new Buena Clinton Youth and Family Center was unveiled during its grand opening celebration. The Buena Clinton neighborhood consists of a one-quarter square-mile area with 3,500 residents. This new 6,600 square foot building will increase the number of people the center can support.
For more than 10 years, the City of Garden Grove has run youth community programs out of a trailer and an apartment at the site of the new building at 12661 Sunswept Avenue. This facility is the realization of a 5 year program, which cost about $2.45 million that was awarded by a 2004 Murray-Hayden Urban Parks and Youth service grant. It offers multi-purpose rooms, a teen center, counseling and case management area, and an outdoor multi-sports court.
Santa Ana
Summer Day Camp
The City of Santa Ana's Vacation Recreation Program (Summer Day Camp) offers a wide variety of activities for children ages 5 to 12, Monday through Friday this summer. The program is offered at the City's seven recreation centers and varies by site. Activities include health and fitness, wacky Olympics, cooking, science projects, nutrition curriculum, water games, arts and crafts, reading, skits, movies, and board games. The end of the summer is capped with a city-wide talent show. Contact your local recreation center for specific activities, and program times and fees.
Here is the contact info for the seven sites:
Jerome Center, 726 S. Center Street, (714) 647-6559
El Salvador Center, 1825 W. Civic Center Drive, (714) 647-6558
Memorial Center, 2102 S. Flower Street, (714) 571-4242
Salgado Center, 706 N. Newhope Street (714) 571-4267
Logan Center, 1009 N. Custer Street, (714) 571-4263
Sandpointe Center, 3700 S. Birch Street, (714) 647-5307
Santa Anita Center, 300 S. Figueroa Street, (714) 647-6552
Westminster
Summer Concerts in the Park
On Thursday nights in the summer, the Civic Center Sunken Gardens is the place to be. The community can enjoy a variety of free concerts held from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. and be entertained by swing, classical, rock-n-roll, country, and Westminster's own Nicholson Pipes & Drums. Concertgoers may bring a picnic dinner or enjoy the delicious food items available through non-profit organizations.
The 2010 Schedule is:
August 5 - Mama Hagglin (Rock and Roll)
August 12 - Gospel Night (Community Choir Group)
August 19 - Nicholson Pipes and Drums (Bagpipe Band and Celtic Sky Dancers)
August 26 - The Music Factor (Jazz/Funk)
The Civic Center Sunken Gardens is located at 8200 Westminster Blvd. For more information, please call (714) 895-2860.
Water Conservation Garden
Westminster's newly planted Water Conservation Garden is host to nearly 20 species of drought tolerant California friendly and native plants. Plants and signs were supplied by local nurseries, and the garden is now on display for the public to enjoy. Some of the species included are the Fox Tail Agave, Feather Reed Grass, Rock Rose, Lion's Tail, Coast Life Oak, and Mexican Sage. Visit the garden often to watch the plants mature and enjoy the plants flower with vibrant colors in the upcoming seasons.
Sigler Park Splash Pad
Feeling hot this summer? Head down to Sigler Park and cool off with the Splash Pad! The daily hours of operation are noon to 5 p.m. from June 28, 2010 through September 6, 2010. Also, the Splash Pad can be rented for private parties. For more information contact the Community Services and Recreation Department at (714) 895-2860. Sigler Park is located at 7200 Plaza Street, Westminster, CA.
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| REQUESTS FOR PROPOSALS |
County of Orange
There are currently many new bids to contract with the County of Orange.
For more information, please click here.
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| Community Events |
City of Garden Grove
August 3, 2010 - National Night Out
The National Night Out is in its 27th year, and is a community-based event focusing on crime and drug prevention through police-community partnerships. The National Night Out in Garden Grove is hosted by The National Children's Study at Westhaven Park from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Westhaven Park, 12252 West Street, Garden Grove, CA.
August 12, 2010 - Multi-Chamber of Commerce Mixer
The Garden Grove and Westminster Chambers of Commerce will combine for a mixer hosted by Bolsa Chica Self Storage and Los Alisos Estates on Thursday, August 12th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The public is invited and admission is 5 business cards.
For more information call (714) 638-7950.
Location: 13090 Old Bolsa Chica Road, Westminster, CA.
City of Santa Ana
August 3, 2010 - National Night Out
The National Night Out is in its 27th year, and is a community-based event focusing on crime and drug prevention by strengthening police-community partnerships. The National Night Out in Santa Ana is hosted by The Santa Ana Police Department and TargetŪ at Davis Elementary School from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. There will be Police, Ambulance and Fire vehicles on display, along with face painting, arts & crafts, story time and a watermelon contest.
For more information call the Santa Ana Police Department at (714) 245-8738.
Location: Davis Elementary School, 1405 French Street, Santa Ana.
August 14, 2010 - Madison Park Community Resource Faire
On Saturday, August 14th, head on out to Madison Park for the 8th Annual Madison Park Community Resource Faire, Walk-A-Thon & Concert. The day will begin with a neighborhood Walk-A-Thon from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., and follow with the festival and concert from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Over 40 participants will offer information on health awareness programs, health screenings, youth programs, transportation and many other issues. This event is sponsored by the Madison Park Neighborhood Association and co-sponsored by the City of Santa Ana, Casas Guanajuato-Santa Ana and UC Irvine-Chicanos/Latinos for Community Medicine.
For more information, please call (714) 497-8335 or email adolfosierra@sbcglobal.net.
Location: Madison Park, 1528 S. Standard Ave., Santa Ana, CA.
City of Westminster
August 12, 2010 - Multi-Chamber of Commerce Mixer
The Garden Grove and Westminster Chambers of Commerce will combine for a mixer hosted by Bolsa Chica Self Storage and Los Alisos Estates on Thursday, August 12th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The public is invited and admission is 5 business cards.
For more information call (714) 638-7950.
Location: 13090 Old Bolsa Chica Road, Westminster, CA.
Summer 2010 - Summer Aquatics Program
This summer swim classes will be offered at La Quinta High School for $45 per session. Each session runs 35 minutes per day, Monday through Thursday for two weeks.
- Session D: August 9 - August 19
Registration for Session D began on July 16th however, for up to date information please visit the Community Services Building at 8200 Westminster Blvd. or www.activenet.active.com/westminster.
Recreation swim is available at La Quinta High School for free Monday through Thursdays between June 28th and August 19th, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. For additional information please call (714) 895-2860. After June 28th, call the pool deck at (714) 715-0111. For descriptions of lessons visit www.westminster-ca.gov/depts/cs/aquatics.
Location: La Quinta High School Pool, 10372 McFadden Ave., Westminster, CA 92683.
Summer 2010 - Summer Parks & Playgrounds Program
This summer the city of Westminster's Community Services and Recreation Department will offer an array of programs and events for eight weeks. Some programs may require a pre-registration fee. The parks noted below will be open Monday through Friday beginning Monday, June 28 for eight weeks. This "drop-in" summer supervised recreation program is designed for elementary school aged youngsters and will offer a quality recreation experience. Children under the age of six must be accompanied by a parent/adult. Programs are FREE, supervised and offered on a drop-in basis. As a drop-in program, participants DO NOT sign-in or out and may come and go freely.
Participants will enjoy a summer full of games, arts and crafts, sports, excursions and organized recreational activities.
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Bolsa Chica Park, 13660 University, Phone (714) 897-5911
- Liberty Park, 13900 Monroe, Phone (714) 412-2617
- Park West Park, 8301 McFadden, Phone (714) 898-7896
- Sigler Park, 7200 Plaza, Phone (714) 715-0262
12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Bowling Green Park, 14700 Bowling Green
- Gillespie Park, 9801 McFadden
- Goldenwest Park, 13200 Siskiyou
For more information please call the Community Services Department at (714) 895-2860.
To contact Supervisor Janet Nguyen, please call 714-834-3110 or email Janet.Nguyen@ocgov.com. |
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