Santa Ana's top news & views blog

New Santa Ana

Call us if you have a question

Category Archives: Orange County

OC Public Libraries partners with LibroMobile to launch inaugural OC Poet Laureate Programs

Posted on by Posted in Arts and Culture, Orange County, Poetry, Santa Ana Leave a comment

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (April 15, 2021) — In conjunction with April’s National Poetry Month, OC Public Libraries is partnering with LibroMobile Arts Co-Op to launch the inaugural OC Poet Laureate (OC-PL) and OC Youth Poet Laureate (OCYPL) programs in Orange County. Aiming to reflect regional demographics including approximately 60% people of color, these programs are intended to inspire and promote cultural connections and community partnerships by celebrating local poets using their powerful voices to impact social change. 

The goals of the OC-PL program are to inspire residents through transformative community engagement and the positive impact of poetry; provide opportunities to engage in literary arts and write or perform poetry; bring poetry to a variety of settings in the community; and ultimately support a civic and literary leader for generations to come. 

In partnership with the National Youth Poet Laureate Program and Urban Word, the OCYPL program is a countywide literacy effort celebrating poetry and connecting young writers to far-reaching opportunities. Each year Orange County writers (ages 13-19) can apply to join a community of talented young poets. A Laureate is selected and earns an honorarium that can be applied as an educational scholarship or toward additional arts programming. All Finalists are invited to serve as ambassadors alongside the Laureate for literacy, arts, and youth expression with ongoing opportunities for performances, projects, and peer support. 

One OC Poet Laureate and one OC Youth Poet Laureate will be selected for the 2021-2022 program year. Inaugural applications for the OC-PL and OCYPL programs will open on April 15, 2021 and be accepted through July 15, 2021. Announcement of the 2021-2022 OC Poet Laureate Appointments will be made on August 15, 2021.  

For more information about the OC-PL and OCYPL literary programs including eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit libromobile.com/ocpoetlaureates. 

OC Public Libraries is a network of 32 community libraries across Orange County, California. With over 100 years of commitment to its residents, OC Public Libraries offers millions of resources to contribute to the quality of life. The library aims to empower and enrich the community with access to books, eBooks, databases, literacy services, programming, and more. Learn more at ocpl.org. 

LibroMobile is a literary project established in Santa Ana, California—it integrates literature, visual exhibits, year-round creative workshops, and live readings. LibroMobile Arts Co-Op is a collective of community organizers, cultural producers, and local artists working collaboratively to form a workers’ cooperative. Learn more at libromobile.com. 

The National Youth Poet Laureate Program was founded in 2008 and identifies and celebrates teen poets who exhibit a commitment to artistic excellence, civic engagement, youth leadership, and social justice. The National Youth Poet Laureate Program works with local youth literary arts organizations across the United States to identify and celebrate exceptional youth poets who use their voices to inspire change. Learn more at youthlaureate.org. 

Urban Word is an award-winning youth literary arts and youth development organization that collaborates with local youth literary arts organizations across the country to provide uncensored platforms for youth voice. It is championed by the leading national literary organizations, including the President’s Committee on the Arts & Humanities, the Academy of American Poets, Poetry Society of America, PEN Center USA, Cave Canem, and the Library of Congress. Learn more at urbanwordnyc.org. 

The OC Health Care Agency reacts to the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine pause

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Orange County, Public Safety, Santa Ana Leave a comment

(Santa Ana, CA) – Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is recommending a pause in the use of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine out of an abundance of caution. This recommendation comes after six reported U.S. cases of a rare and severe blood clot type in individuals after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. This pause will be in place until the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) completes a review of the reported cases.

In alignment with the CDC’s recommendation and with safety as our top priority, the County of Orange has removed the Johnson & Johnson vaccine from all its vaccination Point of Distribution (POD) sites until further notice from the CDC. The County’s vaccination PODs will continue to dispense the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines to individuals with appointments.

Link to CDC Media Release: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s0413-JJ-vaccine.html

How many Johnson & Johnson vaccines has the County dispensed at its sites?

The OC Health Care Agency dispensed approximately 27,000 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine between the week of March 8 and April 12, 2021.

How rare is this side effect?

As of April 12, more than 6.8 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine have been administered in the U.S. The CDC and FDA are reviewing data involving six reported U.S. cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot in individuals after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. There are reports that six women between the ages of 18 and 48 developed unusual types of blood clots 6 to 13 days after receiving the vaccine. 

I received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. What should I do? 

People who received the vaccine in the last three weeks should look for any symptoms of these unusual clots, including severe headaches, abdominal or leg pain, and shortness of breath, and contact their medical provider if symptoms develop. People who don’t have a medical provider can call 2-1-1 to connect with a healthcare provider. 

Supervisors Do and Wagner oppose government-issued vaccine passports

Posted on by Posted in Andrew Do, Disease, Don Wagner, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

Orange County Supervisors Andrew Do and Don Wagner issued a joint statement opposing government-issued vaccine passports.

Each Supervisor holds that vaccinations should never be required to access government services and government must never discriminate against its citizens.

Supervisor Do said “This is America. Under no circumstances would or should we ever need a passport to live and get services within our community.”

Supervisor Wagner said “The science has not justified the indiscriminate lockdowns from the state. I also see no justification for a vaccine passport. It is no business of the government telling free citizens where they may travel and government must never discriminate against its citizens because of their vaccine status.”

Both Supervisors Do and Wagner would support the County in certifying an individual’s vaccine status if those adults got the vaccine through the County and only if the individual requests verification to keep their medical records updated.

Supervisor Do proudly serves the First District, which includes Santa Ana. Supervisor Wagner serves in the Third District, which includes Irvine.

Former O.C. resident charged with fraud after a bogus $14M stock offering

Posted on by Posted in Crime, Federal Government, Fraud, Justice, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

SANTA ANA, California – A former Southern California resident was charged today with defrauding more than 100 investors out of $14 million by using boiler room tactics to fraudulently offer a “pre-IPO” investing opportunity in his online streaming and entertainment company, then using much of the funds to support his lavish lifestyle.

Ronald Shane Flynn, a.k.a. “Ronnie Shane,” 57, who formerly resided in Santa Monica and Orange County and is believed to be residing abroad, was charged in a federal grand jury indictment with 15 counts of wire fraud. According to the indictment, Flynn was the founder and operator of Vuuzle Media Corp., which purported to be a streaming media business with offices in New York, Las Vegas, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, and other locations throughout the world.

From September 2016 to the present, Flynn falsely represented to investors that Vuuzle was a pre-IPO (initial public offering) investment opportunity that would provide high returns when it went public. To raise investor money, Flynn, through Vuuzle, hired a salesforce to solicit investors to purchase Vuuzle stock, according to the indictment. Although Vuuzle’s paperwork with federal securities regulators indicated Vuuzle would pay no commissions, Flynn allegedly paid large commissions to his salesforce and independent stock promoters.

Flynn also falsely told investors that their money would be used to operate and build Vuuzle’s online streaming business, as well as to take the company public, and he promised investors they would receive dividend payments from their investments in Vuuzle, according to the indictment.

Based on Vuuzle’s U.S.-based bank account and filed tax returns, Vuuzle never made a profit, and Flynn did not intend to conduct an IPO for Vuuzle, the indictment alleges. Because Vuuzle did not have audited financials, it could never make a public offering on any public stock exchange, and, since its inception in 2016, Vuuzle has never paid dividends to any investor, according to the indictment.

Out of the $14 million raised in investor funds, Flynn allegedly took a large portion of investor money to support his lavish lifestyle, including purchases at resorts and jewelry merchants, using an American Express credit card paid for by Vuuzle.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

If convicted of all charges, Flynn would face a statutory maximum sentence of 300 years in federal prison.

In January, the Securities and Exchange Commission sued Flynn and Vuuzle in federal court in New Jersey, alleging violations of federal securities laws.

The FBI investigated this matter.

Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer L. Waier of the Santa Ana Branch Office is prosecuting this case.

The OC Human Trafficking Trask Force releases their 2021 Victim Report

Posted on by Posted in Anaheim, Crime, Human Trafficking, Orange County Leave a comment

ANAHEIM, Calif., April 6, 2021 — Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF) released the 2021 Human Trafficking Victim Report as it marked a 10-year milestone partnership of collaborative leadership by Anaheim Police Department and nonprofit Waymakers. The unique collaboration between law enforcement and victim services has made strides in community advocacy and education throughout the last decade, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In order to adequately handle the complex nature of human trafficking crimes and range of victims, the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF) is a collaborative model of law enforcement, victim services, prosecution, government entities, nonprofit organizations, community organizations, and volunteers. With the support of the community and faith-based action committee, the purpose is to address the areas of protection, prosecution, and prevention in partnership with key stakeholders. Since 2013, OCHTTF has produced the Human Trafficking Victim Report to raise awareness of this often-invisible crime, documenting victims of modern-day sex and labor slavery in Orange County, California for public knowledge.

The 2021 Human Trafficking Victim Report shows that the task force assisted 357 victims of sex and labor trafficking in 2019-2020, including 317 sex trafficking victims and 33 labor trafficking victims. Of these victims, 330 were female and 27 were male, and 101 victims were minors. 

“In these challenging times of the pandemic, and racial unrest, we know that trafficking doesn’t stop,” explained Michelle Heater, program director, Victim Assistance Programs with Waymakers. “That is just one of the reasons why the Human Trafficking Victim Report is pivotal in creating public awareness and putting statistics to these cases. Not only is the task force creating community collaboration, awareness, and educational partnerships but we are getting these victims the advocacy, care and healing each one of them needs. Our goal as a Task Force is to put the victims first when it comes to our services and based upon this year’s report, we know there is a significant need among victims for our support.”

“A decade of collaboration allows us to really see change that we have enacted,” said Anaheim Police Chief Jorge Cisneros. “Our partnership began the process of police personnel looking at the human trafficking problem from a completely new, holistic perspective. It required a complete change in mindset from law enforcement in addressing the problem. The Anaheim Police Department is proud of its decade long commitment to the mission and the new approach becoming a department philosophy. We will continue to be the lead law enforcement agency for the Task Force.”

COVID-19 Impacts Victim Assistance Approach but Not Trafficking Activity

While the 2021 Victim Report shows a slight decrease in victims assisted compared to the last report released in 2019 (from 415 to 357), this was likely due to law enforcement’s limited ability to be proactive with human trafficking investigations and victim identification during COVID-19. Call-out response consisted of 13 percent in comparison to 27 percent in 2019 and 35 percent in 2018. The pandemic, however, increased the volume of calls from the National Human Trafficking Hotline with 29 percent of calls coming from victims who resided outside the service area of Orange County needing assistance.

Even with the pandemic, human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation continued as traffickers and exploiters took advantage of the vulnerabilities of victims. The Orange County Child Abuse Registry experienced an increase in calls for Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) that identified more Orange County youth compared to previous years along with information from law enforcement.

Although the number of referrals for services made from prosecution was high in 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, much of the work helping victims navigate the criminal justice system process was significantly slowed as investigations and the court system were unable to move at the same levels as before the pandemic.

The report also notes there were approximately 294 total referrals made to victim assistance services in 2019 and 2020, with 39 percent coming from law enforcement, 19 percent coming from the National Human Trafficking Hotline, and the remainder from the community, other government entities, family/friends, and self-referrals.

In 2020, therapy services increased for victims, which could be a result of increased mental health support needs due to the isolation and stress of COVID-19 on victims. The biggest challenge noted during 2020 was navigating how to provide support during a pandemic. Waymakers and The Salvation Army, the primary organizations providing direct victim support for trafficking victims, were forced to significantly adapt their service delivery models to comply with health guidelines. For example, support groups that offer victims the opportunity to openly speak about their trauma had to meet online and the sense of community shifted for those who needed support.


Key Findings in a Decade of Work

In 2010, the OCHTTF was one of three task forces awarded the U.S. Department of Justice – Bureau of Justice Assistance and Office for Victims of Crime’s first Enhanced Collaborative Model (ECM) to Combat Human Trafficking project and continues to function as such to address all forms of human trafficking in Orange County. Waymakers and Anaheim Police Department lead this ECM and have transitioned to a victim-centered and trauma-enforced approach with the goal of combatting human trafficking in Orange County.

Over the past decade, the data shows that human trafficking crosses all racial, ethnic, gender, socio-economic and cultural lines. Local law enforcement has consistently been the top victim referral source for trafficking cases, while family and friend referrals continue to remain low. Since victims of labor trafficking consisted mostly of foreign nationals, these findings are consistent and not surprising, since national victims have often left family behind in hopes of finding a better life in the U.S. and domestic victims often come from abused and neglected homes. While the number of foreign victims assisted has not significantly changed from year to year, the steady increase among the U.S. victims shifted the victim demographic percentage significantly. This correlates to the types of service needs that may differ between foreign and U.S. victims in response.

Criminal justice advocacy started as one of the bottom needs for victims but has gradually increased in need over the last 10 years. In the years that housing assistance needs among victims was higher, transportation assistance was lower, and this potentially shows that when access to housing in Orange County was limited, the need for relocation assistance and transportation assistance increases. This correlation is important for the OCHTTF to consider as Orange County is a destination location for human trafficking victimization; approximately 80 percent of victims are not from Orange County. Depending on the locations where sex trafficking may be occurring—street, hotels, residential brothels, massage parlors—the victims are brought into Orange County anywhere from days to months before they are moved again.

A notable finding over the past decade was that from 2012 to 2020, 94 percent of cases reviewed by the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit were filed and of the cases that went to jury trial, 95 percent received a guilty verdict. “The Orange County District Attorney’s Office has been unwavering in its commitment to investigating and prosecuting human traffickers and protecting the most vulnerable victims, including our children,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “Justice is what is right for the individual, what is right for society, and what is right for the victims. For the last decade, this invaluable partnership between law enforcement, prosecutors, and victims’ assistance is helping to provide justice in human trafficking cases and help safeguard victims from predators who will do everything they can to exploit them.”

Looking Ahead to the Next Decade

While this report not only highlights the collaboration of a 10-year partnership, it looks forward to how the Task Force can continue its work for the next 10 years and beyond. The Task Force hopes to grow the current efforts from victim services, law enforcement, prosecution, social services, probation and all disciplines who are in a position to come across victims. This can happen with the identification and distribution of funds to expand training for the multi-disciplinary partners; hire and sustain experienced, bicultural staff; and development of specialized units and staff until institutional knowledge on human trafficking becomes more universal.

The Task Force also recommends a public health focus on prevention, exit strategy options and community reintegration to reduce recidivism and the revolving door of victimization for this serial crime. Prevention education for both male and female youth with strategies to divert youth from committing these acts of power, control, and violence is also critical. Opportunities to provide accessible and safe platforms for survivors to provide feedback and have a voice in building and changing programming is also recommended to inform additional victim-centered and trauma-informed training for service providers, law enforcement, and the community.

About Waymakers
Every day throughout Orange County, people find hope after trauma. They don’t simply survive; they find ways to heal – all with the help of Waymakers, formerly called Community Service Programs. Waymakers’ eight model programs guide over 120,000 abused children, crime victims, struggling families, acting-out adolescents and people needing mediation services annually. Waymakers has been sheltering children, supporting victims, counseling families, resolving conflicts and educating communities in Orange County since 1972. Learn more at WaymakersOC.org.

About the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force
The Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF) is a multidisciplinary antihuman trafficking effort of over 60 agencies including law enforcement, victim service providers, nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations, government agencies and the community. The OCHTTF is committed to combatting all forms of human trafficking, recovering victims, prosecuting offenders, advocating on behalf of victims, raising community awareness and strengthening collaborative partnerships. For more information on the OCHTTF and resources, visit ochumantrafficking.com.

This weeks Cochino List includes the Southwest Community Center

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Restaurants, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The O.C. Health Care Agency has released a list of the eateries (including restaurants, caterers and even school kitchens) that they inspected and shut down for the week of March 24 and April 1. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Southwest Community Center, 1601 W. 2nd St., Santa Ana, Closed: March 30, Reason: Cockroach infestation ,Reopened: March 31
  • Update: Main Teriyaki and Burgers, at 806 S. Main St., Santa Ana, which was ordered closed March 25 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen March 26.
  • Update: Sushi Damu at 13962 Newport Ave. Suite D, Tustin, which was ordered closed March 22 because of insufficient hot water, was allowed to reopen March 23.
  • Neat Coffee, 1922 Pomona Ave., Costa Mesa, Closed: March 30, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: March 30
  • Inchin’s Bamboo Garden, 3850 Barranca Parkway Suite O, Irvine, Closed: March 24, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: March 25
  • Update: Star Burger, at 1770 S Harbor Blvd. Suite 132, Anaheim, which was ordered closed March 24 because the plumbing was in disrepair, was allowed to reopen March 25.
  • Wet Dog Tavern, 221 Main St. Suite B, Huntington Beach, Closed: April 1, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: April 2
  • Euro Crepes, 1046-A Brea Mall, Brea, Closed: March 31, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: March 31
  • Fit Bar Superfood Cafe, 16305 Pacific Coast Highway, Seal Beach, Closed: March 31, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: April 2
  • Taqueria La Bamba, 446 S. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, Closed: March 31, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: April 1
  • Pho Cuong, 11080 Magnolia St., Garden Grove, Closed: March 31, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: April 1
  • Griffin’s Grill, 11272 Los Alamitos Blvd., Los Alamitos, Closed: March 30, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: March 30
  • Sushi Box, 1281 W. Central Ave., Brea, Closed: March 30, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: March 30
  • H & H Donuts, 7905 Knott Ave., Buena Park, Closed: March 29, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: March 30
  • Del Taco, 25542 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, Closed: March 25, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: March 26
  • G & H Liquor and Spirits (Grape Press Liquor), 24011 Marguerite Parkway Suite A, Mission Viejo, Closed: March 25, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: March 26
  • Update: Del Taco at 21401 Brookhurst St., Huntington Beach, which was ordered closed March 24 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen March 26.

Where to get the COVID-19 vaccine in Orange County

Posted on by Posted in Costa Mesa, Disease, Health and Medical, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Santa Ana Leave a comment

SANTA ANA – Supervisor Katrina Foley (District Two) was joined by Chairman Andrew Do (District One), Supervisor Doug Chaffee (District Four), and representatives from the Orange County Fair Board of Directors and Orange County Health Agency today, to announce the opening of the County’s third Super Pod vaccination site at the Costa Mesa Fairgrounds.

“As we open more business sectors in the Orange Tier, our new same-day appointment system at our OC Fair and Event Center location, will help our community get back to work safely and conveniently,” said Supervisor Foley. “The site’s dual-function as a joint vaccine and COVID testing location, helps ensure our goals of health equity and serving the ongoing needs of our communities.”

During the press conference, Foley also announced ongoing efforts to expand hours for the pod location, to better serve those who might not be able to get vaccinated during normal business hours. She concluded with the announcement that she would work with the OC Fair Board to support the vaccination of the fair’s 1500 employees, in advance of the July 16th opening.

“Finally, I want to remind our community members on the continued importance of wearing masks and practicing social distancing, even as our vaccination rollout continues.” reminded Supervisor Foley. “We are so close to the light at the end of the tunnel, including being able to return to the OC Fair. We just have to stay the course.”

For more information on Orange County’s ongoing vaccination process click here.

Vaccinations dispensed at County Super PODs are currently available to Orange County residents and those who work in Orange County.

How to Get Vaccinated:

Individuals who live or work in Orange County, CA can register to receive the COVID-19 vaccine online through www.Othena.com or by downloading the app on Iphone or Android. Othena is a vaccine scheduling system created by CuraPatient, in conjunction with leading health care experts and public health agencies.

BE AWARE: The OC Health Care Agency, County of Orange has partnered with Composite Apps, developer of the Othena application, for the sole purpose of facilitating safe and timely distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to Orange County residents. Be HYPERAWARE of fake apps and scammers who may create malicious health-related applications. The Othena app will NEVER ask you for your social security number, credit card information, bank information, or any payment of any sort in any way. Some phone calls may be made to coordinate appointments, but those callers will NEVER ask for payment. Be also aware of the spelling of OTHENA, both as an app and the website www.othena.com.

To learn more about how and where to get vaccinated, please visit the Orange County Health Care Agency website. For questions related to COVID-19, visit OCHA’s COVID-19 website, or follow the HCA on Facebook (@ochealthinfo) and Twitter (@ochealth).

The OC Sheriff arrested a suspect in a string of bank robbers in four counties

Posted on by Posted in Banking, Crime, OC Sheriff, Orange County Leave a comment

ALISO VIEJO, Ca. (April 2, 2021) – Sheriff’s Department investigators arrested a man suspected of a series of recent bank robberies across Southern California.

At approximately 2:40 p.m. on March 10, 2021 a male suspect committed a bank robbery in the 26000 block of Aliso Creek Road in the city of Aliso Viejo.

Upon investigation, it was determined the suspect was involved in a series of bank robberies in February 2021 and March 2021 in Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura and San Diego counties. The suspect targeted banks in grocery stores. He would pass his cell phone to the teller, which contained a note demanding money and indicating the suspect was armed.

Orange County Sheriff’s investigators wrote multiple search warrants and their work led to identification of the suspect. Kyle Marquise Adlam, 24, was arrested and booked into Orange County Jail on Wednesday, March 31, on suspicion of robbery.

Orange County to progress from the Red Tier to Orange on Wed., March 31

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Health and Medical, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Santa Ana Leave a comment

Santa Ana, Calif. (March 30, 2021) –Today the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that effective Wednesday, March 31, Orange County (OC) will move into the Orange Tier of the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy after having successfully achieved Orange Tier metrics for two weeks.

As a result, many local businesses and activities in OC will either be allowed to expand capacity or resume operations. Please visit the State’s website at https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy, enter Orange in the County field and business or activity of interest in the Activity field and click the Get Latest Risk Levels button to view its status under the Orange Tier.

As an additional resource, residents may visit https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/COVID-19/Dimmer-Framework-September_2020.pdf for the activities and businesses that are permitted under each Tier by the State.

Continued adherence to non-medical public health mitigation measures such as wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth, washing hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces, and practicing physical distancing from those outside your household will help limit the impact of variants circulating in Southern California, particularly as more indoor activities open and expand operations.

Residents who have not yet received a vaccination against COVID-19 are encouraged to register at www.Othena.com to be placed in the virtual waiting room and notified when it is their turn to schedule an appointment. For the latest eligibility guidelines, please visit https://coronavirus.egovoc.com/covid-19-vaccination-distribution. Those needing assistance with Othena may call the County of Orange’s COVID-19 Hotline 7 days a week from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at (714) 834-2000.

Additional information and resources:

For the latest COVID-19 information, visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus, or follow the HCA on Facebook (@ochealthinfo) and Twitter (@ochealth).

The secured O.C. property tax payment is due by Monday, April 12

Posted on by Posted in OC Treasurer, Orange County, Real Estate, Santa Ana, Taxes Leave a comment

SANTA ANA, Calif. – The second installment deadline to timely pay secured property taxes for fiscal year 2020/21 is Monday, April 12, due to April 10 being on a Saturday. 

“Stay safe and pay online by using our secure 24/7 online ‘no cost’ eCheck payment option if you are able to pay your property taxes timely,” said OC Treasurer Shari Freidenrich. “You will receive same day credit and a receipt that can be emailed or printed. As long as you pay online by midnight on April 12th, you will avoid any penalties for late payment. ”

Unable to deliver payment by April 12 due to a COVID-19 financial hardship? Check out the options for homeowners and small businesses for penalty cancellations at ttc.ocgov.com and click the COVID-19 Penalty Cancellation image.

The most efficient payment option is eCheck: it’s Fast, Safe and Secure. Just enter a parcel number or property address at ocgov.com/octaxbill to view/print tax bills dating back 10 years, the prior two years of payment history and an online statement of your account. While there is no charge for eCheck, taxpayers who pay with a credit or debit card will be assessed a 2.29 percent service charge.

While the IRS has extended State and Federal Tax Returns to May 17th, The OC Treasurer does not have the authority to extend the property tax payment deadline beyond April 12th. Payments not received by the deadline will incur a 10 percent penalty plus a $23 fee, unless postmarked on or before April 12th by the USPS. However, taxpayers who pay base taxes by May 6th, complete and file a COVID-19 penalty cancellation request form and meet the criteria as a homeowner or small business that has been financially impacted by COVID-19 will have their penalties cancelled.

Taxpayers may also scan the QR code on their secured property tax bill to be taken right to their property webpage. Other payment options include paying by check, cashier’s check or money order using our 24/7 depository payment drop box located off Ross Street on the side of the County Administration South building, mailing your payment using the envelope included in the property tax bill, or in person at the County Service Center at 601 N. Ross Street in Santa Ana. If mailing your payment, we recommend that you get a USPS hand-stamped postmark on or before April 12 to avoid penalties.

Also, check out our property tax and financial tools:

· Subscribe to text/email payment reminders at ocgov.com/octaxreminder

· View and download our Property Tax eGuides at ocgov.com/ocpropertytaxguides

· View all County parcels with links to the bills on a GIS map at mello.ocgov.com

· Subscribe to our Financial Tip of the Week at ocgov.com/ocfinancialinfo

If you have payment questions please email ttcinfo@ttc.ocgov.com, or call (714) 834- 3411 between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.

Limited visiting at the OC Jails resumes

Posted on by Posted in Crime, OC Sheriff, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

SANTA ANA, Ca.: The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has resumed limited visiting at the Orange County jails, as of Friday, March 26.

Due to successful COVID-19 mitigation efforts in the jails and the County of Orange being designated as a “red tier” county, the Sheriff’s Department has established visiting protocols keeping the safety of those in custody, Department personnel, and visitors a top priority.

“We understand the value of visitation and know those in our custody and their loved ones have been impacted over the last year as we navigated the challenges of COVID-19,” said Sheriff-Coroner Don Barnes. “We look forward to reinstating visiting in a way that is safe for all.”

The Sheriff’s Department temporarily suspended visiting in March 2020 based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and in consideration of the Sheriff’s Department’s COVID-19 prevention efforts.

Over the last year, the Department routinely assessed the feasibility of safely reintroducing visiting days. With COVID-19 considerations in place, inmates will now be able to schedule one visit a month.

The Sheriff’s Department will continue to reassess procedures to determine further expanding visiting practices.

VISITING PROCEDURES

Visiting at all facilities is by appointment only. No walk-ups will be accepted. Members of the public wishing to visit an inmate must call and make an appointment at the facility the inmate is housed at currently. The phone numbers to schedule a visit at each facility are listed below.

Newly booked inmates under mandatory 14-day quarantine and those housed in medical isolation or quarantine will not be eligible for visitation.

When calling to schedule, it is recommended to have the booking number of the inmate you wish to visit. Booking numbers can be searched through the online database link here: Inmate Information. Visitors should be prepared to provide a contact phone number in case of housing changes or other incidents occur that may affect the visit.

Two adults and two minors will be permitted to visit any one inmate.

All facilities will require face coverings and have screening procedures in place. Face coverings will not be provided. Non-compliance will result in denial of a visit.

SCHEDULING A VISIT

To schedule a visit, call the facility of the inmate you wish to visit from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Visiting hours are Friday-Monday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Para hacer una cita para visitar, llame de Lunes a Viernes de las 8am – 5pm.

Intake Release Center- 550 North Flower Street, Santa Ana CA 92703

· IRC Scheduling number: 714-647-6050

· Visitors with a scheduled appointment will line up outside the Intake Release Center lobby and maintain physical distance

· The IRC lobby will be limited capacity for those with ADA considerations

· More information: IRC Visiting

Central Jail Complex- 550 North Flower Street, Santa Ana CA 92703

· Central Jail Scheduling number: 714-647-4543

· Visitors with a scheduled appointment will line up outside the Intake Release Center lobby and maintain physical distance

· The IRC lobby will be limited capacity for those with ADA considerations

· More information: Central Jails Visiting

Theo Lacy Facility- 501 The City Dr. S, Orange, CA 92868

· Theo Lacy Facility Scheduling number: 714-935-6202

· Appointments must be made 24-72 hours in advance

· Visitors with a scheduled appointment will line up outside the lobby and maintain physical distance

· The Theo Lacy Facility lobby will be limited capacity for those with ADA considerations

· More information: Theo Lacy Visiting

The OCTA seeks volunteers for their Citizens Advisory Committee

Posted on by Posted in OCTA, Orange, Orange County, Transportation Leave a comment


ORANGE – The Orange County Transportation Authority is recruiting community leaders to fill openings on the Citizens Advisory Committee, which provides input on a range of transportation projects, studies and outreach activities.
The 34-member committee actively provides input on OCTA’s transportation studies, explores ways to improve traffic and communicates with the public. During the year, committee members are asked to participate in roundtable discussions and hear special presentations on various transportation projects, programs and services.
OCTA is seeking individuals with a demonstrated interest in community activities and transportation issues who are willing to dedicate at least 15 hours per year to meetings and activities. This is an unpaid volunteer position and committee members are asked to commit to a two-year term. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and live in Orange County.

Responsibilities of committee members include:

• Serving as a liaison between the public and OCTA,
• Identifying opportunities for community input,
• Recommending ways for obtaining public opinion on specific transportation issues,
• And commenting on significant transportation issues and suggesting possible solutions.

The Citizens Advisory Committee meets quarterly on the third Tuesday of the month at noon. Meetings are held virtually until further notice due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Applications must be received by May 2 and are available at octa.net/CAC. For more information, contact Jared Hill at (714) 560-5680 or JHill1@octa.net.

The OCTA Board of Directors is expected to select the members in June.

About OCTA: The Orange County Transportation Authority is the county transportation planning commission, responsible for funding and implementing transit and capital projects for a balanced and sustainable transportation system that reflects the diverse travel needs of the county’s 34 cities and 3.2 million residents. With the mission of keeping Orange County moving, this includes freeways and express lanes, bus and rail transit, rideshare, commuter rail, environmental programs and active transportation.

An O.C. inmate died after a suspected suicide

Posted on by Posted in OC Sheriff, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

SANTA ANA, Ca. (March 15, 2021) – A 41-year-old male inmate housed at the Intake Release Center in Santa Ana died yesterday evening at approximately 7:45 p.m. of a suspected suicide.

The man was booked into the Orange County Jail by the Cypress Police Department on Aug. 18, 2020, on multiple charges including attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon and mayhem.

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office will investigate the in-custody death. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department will conduct an in-custody death review.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department will continue to evaluate protocols and procedures to ensure the highest level of care is provided to those in custody.

No additional information will be released at this time.

This week’s Cochino List includes Pacific Ranch Market

Posted on by Posted in Business, Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Restaurants, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The O.C. Health Care Agency has released a list of the eateries (including restaurants, caterers and even school kitchens) that they inspected and shut down for the week of March 4 to March 12. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Stowaway, 2493 Park Ave., Suite 27, Tustin, Closed: March 9, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: March 11
  • Pacific Ranch Market, 7540 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, Closed: March 8, Reason: Rodent infestation
  • Banh Cuon Tay Ho So II, 9242 Bolsa Ave., Suite F, Westminster, Closed: March 8, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: March 10
  • Sessions Sandwiches, 414 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, Closed: March 10, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: March 11
  • Johns Incredible Pizza Co., 8601 On The Mall, Buena Park, Closed: March 9, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: March 10
  • 7-Eleven, 502 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, Closed: March 4, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: March 5
  • Primrose Cafe, 13956 Seal Beach Blvd., Seal Beach, Closed: March 4, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: March 5
  • Update: Wet Dog Tavern at 221 Main St., Suite B, Huntington Beach, which was ordered closed March 3 because of a rodent infestation, was allowed to reopen March 6.

Orange County returns to the Red Tier on Sunday, March 14

Posted on by Posted in California, Disease, Health and Medical, OC Health Care, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

Santa Ana, Calif. (March 12, 2021) –Today the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) today announced that 2 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to Californians in some of the state’s hardest-hit communities, increasing immunity where the state’s transmission rates and disease burden have been the highest during the pandemic. With this equity metric met, and because vaccines slow the spread of disease and serious illness, the previously announced update to the Blueprint for a Safer Economy to account for progress with vaccine administration goes into effect. Effective Sunday, March 14, Orange County will move into the Red Tier the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy after having met Red Tier metrics.

As a result, many local businesses and activities in Orange County will either be allowed to expand capacity or resume operations. Please visit the State’s website at https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/, enter Orange in the County field and business or activity of interest in the Activity field and click the Get Latest Risk Levels button to view its status under the Red Tier. As an additional resource, residents may visit https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/COVID-19/Dimmer-Framework-September_2020.pdf for the activities and businesses that are permitted under each Tier by the State.

In addition, CDPH announced that beginning on Saturday, March 13, breweries, wineries and distilleries that do not serve meals may open outdoors only with modifications in the Purple (widespread) and Red (substantial) tiers. The modifications include ensuring that patrons have reservations and patrons observe a 90-minute time limit. Service for on-site consumption must end by 8 p.m. The updated guidance does not apply to breweries, wineries and distilleries that provide meals. Those establishments should continue to follow the restaurant guidance. However, bars that do not serve meals must remain closed in the Purple and Red tiers.

Beginning June 1, overnight sleepaway camps will be allowed to resume with modifications in the Red, Orange and Yellow tiers.

For questions related to COVID-19, visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus, or follow the HCA on Facebook (@ochealthinfo) and Twitter (@ochealth).