As we continue into September, we face the harsh realities of fire season. The Airport Fire has consumed over 23,000 acres at the time of this writing.
Due to the rapid spread of this fire, I declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, requesting state and federal assistance in containing it. The board unanimously ratified the declaration. Evacuation orders have been issued for communities affected by the fire, and shelter has been provided for both people and animals.
We have a dedicated team of over 600 firefighter personnel on-site, working tirelessly to contain this fire as quickly as possible.
I will continue to monitor the situation as it develops. |
As we continue into September, we face the harsh realities of fire season. The Airport Fire has consumed over 23,000 acres at the time of this writing.
Due to the rapid spread of this fire, I declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, requesting state and federal assistance in containing it. The board unanimously ratified the declaration. Evacuation orders have been issued for communities affected by the fire, and shelter has been provided for both people and animals.
We have a dedicated team of over 600 firefighter personnel on-site, working tirelessly to contain this fire as quickly as possible.
I will continue to monitor the situation as it develops. |
Chairman Don Wagner Signs Local State of Emergency in Response to Airport Fire Santa Ana, CA – The Orange County Board of Supervisors declared a local state of emergency in response to the ongoing wildland fire known as the “Airport Fire.” Board Chairman Don Wagner immediately signed the proclamation upon Board approval. The fire, which began on September 9, 2024, has rapidly spread, burning over 9,000 acres in Trabuco Canyon and threatening nearby areas including the City of Rancho Santa Margarita. Due to the intense heat, dry conditions, and challenging terrain, this fire has forced the evacuation of residents and required the temporary relocation of both people and large animals to safer areas. “This emergency declaration is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents and getting the resources and help the community needs,” said Chairman Wagner. “The scale of this fire and its impact on our region call for a unified and immediate response.” The declaration allows for the necessary emergency measures to protect lives and property. This includes the need for disaster-related debris removal and requesting additional support from other jurisdictions and agencies. The County will also seek state and federal assistance to help manage the situation and provide support for affected residents. The County has already begun incurring costs related to firefighting and recovery efforts. As part of the declaration, Orange County will request aid from the Governor and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to access funds and resources needed for ongoing response and recovery operations. “This declaration will enable us to secure the resources and assistance needed to handle the immediate challenges posed by this fire,” added Wagner. “We are committed to working with all levels of government and our community partners to ensure a coordinated and effective response.” Chairman Wagner and the Board of Supervisors will continue to monitor the situation and make further requests for assistance as needed. For updates and information on how to stay safe during this emergency, residents are encouraged call the Public Information Hotline at (714) 628-7085, visit https://www.ocsheriff.gov/AirportFire, and/or follow @OCFireAuthority on Twitter. |
Chairman Don Wagner Signs Local State of Emergency in Response to Airport Fire Santa Ana, CA – The Orange County Board of Supervisors declared a local state of emergency in response to the ongoing wildland fire known as the “Airport Fire.” Board Chairman Don Wagner immediately signed the proclamation upon Board approval. The fire, which began on September 9, 2024, has rapidly spread, burning over 9,000 acres in Trabuco Canyon and threatening nearby areas including the City of Rancho Santa Margarita. Due to the intense heat, dry conditions, and challenging terrain, this fire has forced the evacuation of residents and required the temporary relocation of both people and large animals to safer areas. “This emergency declaration is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents and getting the resources and help the community needs,” said Chairman Wagner. “The scale of this fire and its impact on our region call for a unified and immediate response.” The declaration allows for the necessary emergency measures to protect lives and property. This includes the need for disaster-related debris removal and requesting additional support from other jurisdictions and agencies. The County will also seek state and federal assistance to help manage the situation and provide support for affected residents. The County has already begun incurring costs related to firefighting and recovery efforts. As part of the declaration, Orange County will request aid from the Governor and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to access funds and resources needed for ongoing response and recovery operations. “This declaration will enable us to secure the resources and assistance needed to handle the immediate challenges posed by this fire,” added Wagner. “We are committed to working with all levels of government and our community partners to ensure a coordinated and effective response.” Chairman Wagner and the Board of Supervisors will continue to monitor the situation and make further requests for assistance as needed. For updates and information on how to stay safe during this emergency, residents are encouraged call the Public Information Hotline at (714) 628-7085, visit https://www.ocsheriff.gov/AirportFire, and/or follow @OCFireAuthority on Twitter. |
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Twenty three years have passed, but we can never forget the 2,977 victims of terror that were taken from us on September 11, 2001. We must also remember the bravery of the first responders who saved countless lives through their heroism and dedication to the safety of their fellow citizens. That date changed our country forever, and we must always be vigilant and never let our guard down, lest we give America’s enemies an opportunity to strike again. May the souls of those we lost those many years ago rest in peace. |
Twenty three years have passed, but we can never forget the 2,977 victims of terror that were taken from us on September 11, 2001. We must also remember the bravery of the first responders who saved countless lives through their heroism and dedication to the safety of their fellow citizens. That date changed our country forever, and we must always be vigilant and never let our guard down, lest we give America’s enemies an opportunity to strike again. May the souls of those we lost those many years ago rest in peace. |
At this week's Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board recognized the week of September 17th-23rd as Constitution Week, commemorating its signing on September 17, 1787. Jo Ellen Chatham, Director of Concordia University Irvine’s Center for Civics Education, joined us to discuss the importance of this timeless document that is the oldest and longest standing written and codified national constitution in the world. Testament to the wisdom of the founding fathers, it still stands as the law of the land in our great nation. |
At this week's Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board recognized the week of September 17th-23rd as Constitution Week, commemorating its signing on September 17, 1787. Jo Ellen Chatham, Director of Concordia University Irvine’s Center for Civics Education, joined us to discuss the importance of this timeless document that is the oldest and longest standing written and codified national constitution in the world. Testament to the wisdom of the founding fathers, it still stands as the law of the land in our great nation. |
NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH |
NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH |
At this week's Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board recognized September as National Preparedness Month. Here in Orange County, the dedication of our firefighters, sheriff’s deputies, public works teams, and park staff exemplifies the commitment that keeps our community safe. This month is an essential opportunity to highlight the need for everyone to enhance their preparedness for emergencies, both at home and in our communities, and a time to honor our courageous first responders. |
At this week's Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board recognized September as National Preparedness Month. Here in Orange County, the dedication of our firefighters, sheriff’s deputies, public works teams, and park staff exemplifies the commitment that keeps our community safe. This month is an essential opportunity to highlight the need for everyone to enhance their preparedness for emergencies, both at home and in our communities, and a time to honor our courageous first responders. |
CHECK PRESENTATION FOR CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY'S PA PROGRAM |
CHECK PRESENTATION FOR CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY'S PA PROGRAM |
I joined Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento for a check presentation from CalOptima to Chapman University’s Physician’s Assistant program. This check will give academically qualified Orange County students from high-need backgrounds opportunities for clinical education essential to becoming a licensed PA.
Congratulations Chapman University and its PA program!
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I joined Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento for a check presentation from CalOptima to Chapman University’s Physician’s Assistant program. This check will give academically qualified Orange County students from high-need backgrounds opportunities for clinical education essential to becoming a licensed PA.
Congratulations Chapman University and its PA program!
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MEN OF BREAKFAST & ORANGE COUNTY UNITED WAY END-OF-SUMMER PARTY |
MEN OF BREAKFAST & ORANGE COUNTY UNITED WAY END-OF-SUMMER PARTY |
The Men of the Breakfast (M.O.B.) philanthropic group held a fabulous End-of-Summer party at Newport Harbor Yacht Club last week. I was pleased to say a few words of welcome.
Thank you to M.O.B. co-chairs Don Yahn (Cushman & Wakefield) and Derek Roselli (JP Morgan) for their warm hospitality and their continued leadership of this group, which is part of the Orange County United Way.
From one-of-a-kind car collection tours to exciting networking events, M.O.B. enables local business leaders to build strong relationships with like-minded individuals who support Orange County United Way’s work.
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The Men of the Breakfast (M.O.B.) philanthropic group held a fabulous End-of-Summer party at Newport Harbor Yacht Club last week. I was pleased to say a few words of welcome.
Thank you to M.O.B. co-chairs Don Yahn (Cushman & Wakefield) and Derek Roselli (JP Morgan) for their warm hospitality and their continued leadership of this group, which is part of the Orange County United Way.
From one-of-a-kind car collection tours to exciting networking events, M.O.B. enables local business leaders to build strong relationships with like-minded individuals who support Orange County United Way’s work.
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COUNTY SERVICE CENTER FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION |
COUNTY SERVICE CENTER FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION |
Earlier this week, I led the fifth anniversary celebration for the County Service Center at the County Administrative South building in Santa Ana. I was joined by Supervisor Katrina Foley, Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen, Treasurer-Tax Collector Shari Freidenrich, acting CEO Michelle Aguirre and other county department heads. The County Service Center has been very well received by the public. We have made it easier for everyone to do business with the county and access county services for items such as building permits and birth certificates. Congratulations on five years! I look forward to many more years of continued convenient services for our constituents at the County Service Center. |
Earlier this week, I led the fifth anniversary celebration for the County Service Center at the County Administrative South building in Santa Ana. I was joined by Supervisor Katrina Foley, Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen, Treasurer-Tax Collector Shari Freidenrich, acting CEO Michelle Aguirre and other county department heads. The County Service Center has been very well received by the public. We have made it easier for everyone to do business with the county and access county services for items such as building permits and birth certificates. Congratulations on five years! I look forward to many more years of continued convenient services for our constituents at the County Service Center. |
OPERATION WARM WISHES 17TH ANNIVERSARY |
OPERATION WARM WISHES 17TH ANNIVERSARY |
Congratulations to TyRon Jackson on Operation Warm Wishes’ 17th Anniversary of helping those in need and making a difference in Tustin and Orange County.
We wish you many more years of success!
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Congratulations to TyRon Jackson on Operation Warm Wishes’ 17th Anniversary of helping those in need and making a difference in Tustin and Orange County.
We wish you many more years of success!
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PRETEND CITY CHILDREN'S MUSEUM 15TH ANNIVERSARY |
PRETEND CITY CHILDREN'S MUSEUM 15TH ANNIVERSARY |
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My Field Representative, Al Tello, presented a resolution congratulating Pretend City Children's Museum on its 15th anniversary and recognizing its many years of exceptional service to the families of Orange County.
Pictured are Pretend City Board Member Daniel Campos, Executive Director Ellen Pais, and Co-founder and Board Member Sandy Stone.
Pretend City opened its doors in 2009 with the mission of providing young children with unique, hands-on educational experiences through imaginative play. My grandchildren love it! The museum, located in Irvine, offers 13,000 square feet with 19 learning spaces and is designed as a child-size city where children engage in inquiry-based learning in real-world environments designed for developmentally rich playful learning.
Since its opening, Pretend City has served over two million visitors, inspiring creativity, critical thinking and community engagement among children and their families.
For more info, visit www.pretendcity.org
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My Field Representative, Al Tello, presented a resolution congratulating Pretend City Children's Museum on its 15th anniversary and recognizing its many years of exceptional service to the families of Orange County.
Pictured are Pretend City Board Member Daniel Campos, Executive Director Ellen Pais, and Co-founder and Board Member Sandy Stone.
Pretend City opened its doors in 2009 with the mission of providing young children with unique, hands-on educational experiences through imaginative play. My grandchildren love it! The museum, located in Irvine, offers 13,000 square feet with 19 learning spaces and is designed as a child-size city where children engage in inquiry-based learning in real-world environments designed for developmentally rich playful learning.
Since its opening, Pretend City has served over two million visitors, inspiring creativity, critical thinking and community engagement among children and their families.
For more info, visit www.pretendcity.org
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MORENA'S MEXICAN CUISINE LAKE FOREST GRAND OPENING AND RIBBON CUTTING |
MORENA'S MEXICAN CUISINE LAKE FOREST GRAND OPENING AND RIBBON CUTTING |
My District Director, Scott Voigts, and Community Outreach Director, Saga Conroy, presented a certificate of recognition for the grand opening of Morena's Mexican Cuisine Lake Forest, in the location of the former Mimi’s Cafe in Lake Forest.
This will be the third location for Morena’s, which was founded in 2017 and currently operates restaurants in Rancho Mission Viejo and Huntington Beach.
Morena’s prides itself on never using pre-made sauces, mixes, or frozen ingredients, and instead slow-cooking all of its beans in-house while making its rice fresh every day and hand-making all of its salsas.
Congratulations on your grand opening!
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My District Director, Scott Voigts, and Community Outreach Director, Saga Conroy, presented a certificate of recognition for the grand opening of Morena's Mexican Cuisine Lake Forest, in the location of the former Mimi’s Cafe in Lake Forest.
This will be the third location for Morena’s, which was founded in 2017 and currently operates restaurants in Rancho Mission Viejo and Huntington Beach.
Morena’s prides itself on never using pre-made sauces, mixes, or frozen ingredients, and instead slow-cooking all of its beans in-house while making its rice fresh every day and hand-making all of its salsas.
Congratulations on your grand opening!
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RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE EXPANSION GRAND OPENING |
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE EXPANSION GRAND OPENING |
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My Field Representative, Pat Buttress, presented a certificate of recognition to Ronald McDonald House Orange County for the grand opening of the expansion of the "House that Love Built".
The House first opened in 1989 with 22 rooms now expanded to 44 rooms. Since 1989, the House has provided comfort, care, and support by keeping families together when their child needs medical care in Orange County hospitals. They strive to make families feel at home, even when they can't be. My representative, Pat Buttress, had the privilege of serving on the Ronald McDonald House Board of Trustees for 10 years when they first opened their doors and she assisted in obtaining the Orange City Council's approval of this new addition that is being celebrated today.
The ribbon cutting was attended by Ronald McDonald himself, Ronald McDonald House Board of Trustees President Steve Tomassi, and other board members as well as five founding board members. It was a large turnout of about 300 supporters, volunteers, donors, and staff.
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My Field Representative, Pat Buttress, presented a certificate of recognition to Ronald McDonald House Orange County for the grand opening of the expansion of the "House that Love Built".
The House first opened in 1989 with 22 rooms now expanded to 44 rooms. Since 1989, the House has provided comfort, care, and support by keeping families together when their child needs medical care in Orange County hospitals. They strive to make families feel at home, even when they can't be. My representative, Pat Buttress, had the privilege of serving on the Ronald McDonald House Board of Trustees for 10 years when they first opened their doors and she assisted in obtaining the Orange City Council's approval of this new addition that is being celebrated today.
The ribbon cutting was attended by Ronald McDonald himself, Ronald McDonald House Board of Trustees President Steve Tomassi, and other board members as well as five founding board members. It was a large turnout of about 300 supporters, volunteers, donors, and staff.
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LAKE FOREST SUMMER CONCERT SERIES |
LAKE FOREST SUMMER CONCERT SERIES |
I am pleased to have been one of the sponsors for the last concert in the Lake Forest Summer Concert Series. My District Director, Scott Voigts, had the privilege of staffing our booth at the final concert, headlined by the band “Who’s Zepplin”, the ultimate Led Zepplin/The Who experience.
The concert also included an outstanding car show with over 75 classic cars and custom hot rods. It was a great concert and car show to end the summer concert series.
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I am pleased to have been one of the sponsors for the last concert in the Lake Forest Summer Concert Series. My District Director, Scott Voigts, had the privilege of staffing our booth at the final concert, headlined by the band “Who’s Zepplin”, the ultimate Led Zepplin/The Who experience.
The concert also included an outstanding car show with over 75 classic cars and custom hot rods. It was a great concert and car show to end the summer concert series.
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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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