December has arrived!
As we return from Thanksgiving and close out the year, and my second year in a row as Chairman, I am proud of my office and the County's accomplishments over the last 12 months.
I'm looking forward to this weekend's Trout Fishing Derby, which I encourage all residents to attend. It's a free, fun opportunity for our community to get together and enjoy our beautiful Irvine Lake.
I'm also excited to host this year's Orange County Hall of Fame, inducting nine new Orange County legends to be recognized for their talents. Last year's inaugural class was a great success, and I look forward to celebrating the class of 2024! |
December has arrived!
As we return from Thanksgiving and close out the year, and my second year in a row as Chairman, I am proud of my office and the County's accomplishments over the last 12 months.
I'm looking forward to this weekend's Trout Fishing Derby, which I encourage all residents to attend. It's a free, fun opportunity for our community to get together and enjoy our beautiful Irvine Lake.
I'm also excited to host this year's Orange County Hall of Fame, inducting nine new Orange County legends to be recognized for their talents. Last year's inaugural class was a great success, and I look forward to celebrating the class of 2024! |
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Board of Supervisors Approves Chairman Wagner’s $115,000 Grant to Families Forward for Refurbishment for its Food Pantry Orange County, CA – Today, the Orange County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved Chairman Don Wagner’s $115,000 grant of Third District Discretionary funds to support the refurbishment of the Families Forward food pantry in Irvine. “Families Forward has been instrumental in providing meals for families in need across Orange County since 1984,” said Chairman Wagner. “This grant will help this dedicated nonprofit to expand its facilities to address the growing need of Orange County’s families facing food insecurities.” Chairman Wagner’s grant will be allocated towards an upgrade to Families Forward’s existing warehouse into a palletized storage facility with a new walk-in refrigerator and cooling fans. It will also transform its backroom, currently a volunteer workspace, into a food pantry shopping area where families can select items. “We are so grateful to the support of Chairman Don Wagner and the Board of Supervisors to help bring our reimagined food pantry program to life, where families will have the dignity of choice to select items specific to their preferences,” said Madelynn Hirneise, Families Forward CEO. “Homelessness and hunger often go hand in hand and our food pantry is one of the first touch points for a housing insecure or unhoused family. This remodeled space will be a completely new experience and has the potential to connect families with additional supportive services.” The total cost of this project is $200,000, with Families Forward already securing $85,000 of the funding. This allocation of $115,000 will address the remaining funding gap for the project. This allocation of funds underscores Chairman Wagner’s ongoing commitment to supporting organizations that uplift vulnerable communities and ensure that no family in Orange County goes hungry. |
Board of Supervisors Approves Chairman Wagner’s $115,000 Grant to Families Forward for Refurbishment for its Food Pantry Orange County, CA – Today, the Orange County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved Chairman Don Wagner’s $115,000 grant of Third District Discretionary funds to support the refurbishment of the Families Forward food pantry in Irvine. “Families Forward has been instrumental in providing meals for families in need across Orange County since 1984,” said Chairman Wagner. “This grant will help this dedicated nonprofit to expand its facilities to address the growing need of Orange County’s families facing food insecurities.” Chairman Wagner’s grant will be allocated towards an upgrade to Families Forward’s existing warehouse into a palletized storage facility with a new walk-in refrigerator and cooling fans. It will also transform its backroom, currently a volunteer workspace, into a food pantry shopping area where families can select items. “We are so grateful to the support of Chairman Don Wagner and the Board of Supervisors to help bring our reimagined food pantry program to life, where families will have the dignity of choice to select items specific to their preferences,” said Madelynn Hirneise, Families Forward CEO. “Homelessness and hunger often go hand in hand and our food pantry is one of the first touch points for a housing insecure or unhoused family. This remodeled space will be a completely new experience and has the potential to connect families with additional supportive services.” The total cost of this project is $200,000, with Families Forward already securing $85,000 of the funding. This allocation of $115,000 will address the remaining funding gap for the project. This allocation of funds underscores Chairman Wagner’s ongoing commitment to supporting organizations that uplift vulnerable communities and ensure that no family in Orange County goes hungry. |
RECOGNIZING CHRIS PREVATT'S SERVICE ON THE OCERS BOARD |
RECOGNIZING CHRIS PREVATT'S SERVICE ON THE OCERS BOARD |
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At the December 3rd Board of Supervisors Meeting, the Board recognized the retirement of Chris Prevatt, the Second Member and General Board Member of the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS). After 27 years of service to the County of Orange, Chris will be retiring, and we honored not only his service as a county employee, but his 12 years of service on the OCERS Board. Chris has served with distinction, earning the trust of his fellow OCERS members, and bringing integrity, knowledge, and a tireless commitment to the role. He has been a champion of retirement security, not only for OCERS members but for working families across our county. His steadfast advocacy has ensured that the OCERS system remains strong, fair, and sustainable—an enduring legacy that benefits generations to come. Chris’s long-standing service embodies the very best qualities of public leadership: integrity, dedication, and advocacy. His work has left a lasting impact on this community, and we are profoundly grateful for his countless contributions. We wish Chris the very best as he embarks on this next chapter of life. May it be filled with new adventures, personal growth, and cherished moments with his loved ones. |
At the December 3rd Board of Supervisors Meeting, the Board recognized the retirement of Chris Prevatt, the Second Member and General Board Member of the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS). After 27 years of service to the County of Orange, Chris will be retiring, and we honored not only his service as a county employee, but his 12 years of service on the OCERS Board. Chris has served with distinction, earning the trust of his fellow OCERS members, and bringing integrity, knowledge, and a tireless commitment to the role. He has been a champion of retirement security, not only for OCERS members but for working families across our county. His steadfast advocacy has ensured that the OCERS system remains strong, fair, and sustainable—an enduring legacy that benefits generations to come. Chris’s long-standing service embodies the very best qualities of public leadership: integrity, dedication, and advocacy. His work has left a lasting impact on this community, and we are profoundly grateful for his countless contributions. We wish Chris the very best as he embarks on this next chapter of life. May it be filled with new adventures, personal growth, and cherished moments with his loved ones. |
2024 NATIONAL ALLIANCE OF MENTAL ILLNESS WALK |
2024 NATIONAL ALLIANCE OF MENTAL ILLNESS WALK |
Late last month, I joined the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk at Angel Stadium. This year’s walk was the 20th anniversary of this event. Over 2,000 people participated! I was also interviewed by Cox Cable network at the walk on its program, YURview, to discuss the important work NAMI OC is doing for mental health. NAMI Orange County does incredible work providing support, education, and resources for families and those affected by mental illness. We are incredibly grateful for all the NAMI staff and volunteers do in the mental health space. I want to thank NAMI OC CEO Amy Durham for inviting me to be a part of this walk for mental health every year! |
Late last month, I joined the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk at Angel Stadium. This year’s walk was the 20th anniversary of this event. Over 2,000 people participated! I was also interviewed by Cox Cable network at the walk on its program, YURview, to discuss the important work NAMI OC is doing for mental health. NAMI Orange County does incredible work providing support, education, and resources for families and those affected by mental illness. We are incredibly grateful for all the NAMI staff and volunteers do in the mental health space. I want to thank NAMI OC CEO Amy Durham for inviting me to be a part of this walk for mental health every year! |
OC IN FOCUS INTERVIEW ON SADDLEBACK RADIO |
OC IN FOCUS INTERVIEW ON SADDLEBACK RADIO |
On November 20th, I was invited to join Karyn Bower, the host of Saddleback College’s own OC in Focus radio program, where local news and issues are discussed. We discussed a wide range of topics from public safety, the Board of Supervisors vacancy in District 1, the fentanyl epidemic and more. The broadcast will be up soon. I’m looking forward to sharing with you all! |
On November 20th, I was invited to join Karyn Bower, the host of Saddleback College’s own OC in Focus radio program, where local news and issues are discussed. We discussed a wide range of topics from public safety, the Board of Supervisors vacancy in District 1, the fentanyl epidemic and more. The broadcast will be up soon. I’m looking forward to sharing with you all! |
ARETEEM INSTITUTE 20TH ANNIVERSARY |
ARETEEM INSTITUTE 20TH ANNIVERSARY |
My District Director, Scott Voigts, and Community Outreach Director, Saga Conroy, presented a certificate of recognition to the Areteem Institute for its 20th Anniversary. Areteem Institute is an accredited, prestigious, educational organization providing opportunities for enriching academic experiences through online courses, and inspire and train talented students in Math Olympiad and Physics Olympiad. Congratulations on providing 20 years of educational excellence to students in our community! |
My District Director, Scott Voigts, and Community Outreach Director, Saga Conroy, presented a certificate of recognition to the Areteem Institute for its 20th Anniversary. Areteem Institute is an accredited, prestigious, educational organization providing opportunities for enriching academic experiences through online courses, and inspire and train talented students in Math Olympiad and Physics Olympiad. Congratulations on providing 20 years of educational excellence to students in our community! |
REDSHIFT COFFEE GRAND OPENING |
REDSHIFT COFFEE GRAND OPENING |
My District Director, Scott Voigts, had the distinct pleasure of being at the grand opening of Redshift Coffee on Lake Forest Drive. Redshift coffee roasts and grinds their own coffee and pastries are made fresh daily. Congratulations on your grand opening and we wish you the best of luck in your business! |
My District Director, Scott Voigts, had the distinct pleasure of being at the grand opening of Redshift Coffee on Lake Forest Drive. Redshift coffee roasts and grinds their own coffee and pastries are made fresh daily. Congratulations on your grand opening and we wish you the best of luck in your business! |
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TUSTIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COFFEE MOB |
TUSTIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COFFEE MOB |
The Tustin Chamber of Commerce’s Coffee Mob gathered at Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii. My Field Representative, Al Tello, attended the get-together and helped spread the Aloha Spirit. The Tustin Chamber organizes these Coffee Mob events at local restaurants and coffee houses and it is a great way for members to network before their workday starts. Located at 17243 17th Street just off the 55 freeway, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii proudly serves Hawaiian blends, 100% Kona coffee, espresso drinks, handcrafted energy drinks, and more. Enjoy one of their breakfast and lunch sandwiches served on King's Hawaiian® sweet bread with your new favorite signature latte featuring their famous coffee ice cubes. Next time you are in the area, swing by and say "aloha!" |
The Tustin Chamber of Commerce’s Coffee Mob gathered at Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii. My Field Representative, Al Tello, attended the get-together and helped spread the Aloha Spirit. The Tustin Chamber organizes these Coffee Mob events at local restaurants and coffee houses and it is a great way for members to network before their workday starts. Located at 17243 17th Street just off the 55 freeway, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii proudly serves Hawaiian blends, 100% Kona coffee, espresso drinks, handcrafted energy drinks, and more. Enjoy one of their breakfast and lunch sandwiches served on King's Hawaiian® sweet bread with your new favorite signature latte featuring their famous coffee ice cubes. Next time you are in the area, swing by and say "aloha!" |
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7TH ANNUAL ORANGE COUNTY VETERANS DAY AWARDS DINNER |
7TH ANNUAL ORANGE COUNTY VETERANS DAY AWARDS DINNER |
My District Director, Scott Voigts, was honored to attend and participate in The 7th Annual Orange County Veterans Day Awards Dinner at Orange County Rescue Mission. The keynote speaker for the night was Ambassador Gaddi Vasquez. Scott presented a proclamation for Andre Escalante, the 2024 Orange County Rescue Mission Veteran of the Year, for his leadership, his devotion to the Lord, and his passion for the work he conducted on behalf of the Rescue Mission's men, women, children, and military veterans, and extends to him best wishes for continued success in all his future endeavors. |
My District Director, Scott Voigts, was honored to attend and participate in The 7th Annual Orange County Veterans Day Awards Dinner at Orange County Rescue Mission. The keynote speaker for the night was Ambassador Gaddi Vasquez. Scott presented a proclamation for Andre Escalante, the 2024 Orange County Rescue Mission Veteran of the Year, for his leadership, his devotion to the Lord, and his passion for the work he conducted on behalf of the Rescue Mission's men, women, children, and military veterans, and extends to him best wishes for continued success in all his future endeavors. |
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CANYONS ANNUAL COMMUNITY WILDFIRE AWARENESS MEETING |
CANYONS ANNUAL COMMUNITY WILDFIRE AWARENESS MEETING |
Canyon residents gathered at the annual Community Wildfire Awareness Meeting held at the Library of the Canyons last month. This annual meeting has been held for many years. It is affectionately called the “fire and ice meeting” because they talk about fire and serve ice cream. The threat of fire in the Canyons is something that cannot be overlooked. We need to remain vigilant and prepared in the event of such an emergency. This event was co-sponsored by the Fire Safe Council, Inter-Canyon League, and Orange County Fire Authority. Many thanks to Senior Reserve Officer Bruce Newell for his leadership in making certain that the Canyon communities are prepared for fire emergencies. |
Canyon residents gathered at the annual Community Wildfire Awareness Meeting held at the Library of the Canyons last month. This annual meeting has been held for many years. It is affectionately called the “fire and ice meeting” because they talk about fire and serve ice cream. The threat of fire in the Canyons is something that cannot be overlooked. We need to remain vigilant and prepared in the event of such an emergency. This event was co-sponsored by the Fire Safe Council, Inter-Canyon League, and Orange County Fire Authority. Many thanks to Senior Reserve Officer Bruce Newell for his leadership in making certain that the Canyon communities are prepared for fire emergencies. |
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Chairman Wagner is proud to serve approximately 630,000 residents at the Board of Supervisors in the communities of Anaheim Hills, Irvine, Lake Forest, Tustin, North Tustin, Orange, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Villa Park, Yorba Linda, the Unincorporated Canyon areas. |
Chairman Wagner is proud to serve approximately 630,000 residents at the Board of Supervisors in the communities of Anaheim Hills, Irvine, Lake Forest, Tustin, North Tustin, Orange, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Villa Park, Yorba Linda, the Unincorporated Canyon areas. |
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