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Santa Ana's top news & views blog

Tag Archives: Orange County

This week’s Cochino List includes Xoi Hoang Huong

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

The OC 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 Aug. 1 to Aug. 9. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Xoi Hoang Huong, 7791 Westminster Blvd., Westminster, Closed: Aug. 7, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Update: Lau Dong Que at 9066 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, which was ordered closed Aug. 2 because of insufficient hot water, was allowed to reopen Aug. 2.
  • Mariscos Perlas Del Mar, 1753 W. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, Closed: Aug. 8, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Pho 94, 619 N. Euclid St., Anaheim, Closed: Aug. 7, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Hummingbird House Cafe, 26711 Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano, Closed: Aug. 8, Reason: Insufficient hot water
  • Hacienda On The Lake, 27792 Vista Del Lago, Suite D, Mission Viejo, Closed: Aug. 7, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 8
  • Marisqueria La Jaiba Loka at Anaheim Marketplace, 1440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Suites I 18-20, Anaheim, Closed: Aug. 7, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Aug. 7
  • Sweetbird at Anaheim Packing House, 440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Suite 107-A, Anaheim, Closed: Aug. 6, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 8
  • Kitchen at Fairview Commons, 2283 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, Closed: Aug. 6, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 7
  • Taqueria El Rancho, 8040 Orangewood Ave., Stanton, Closed: Aug. 6, Reason: Lack of power/ lack of utilities
  • La Perla Restaurant, 515 W. La Habra Blvd., La Habra, Closed: Aug. 5, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 8
  • Duffy’s, 531 W. Imperial Highway, La Habra, Closed: Aug. 2, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Aug. 2
  • China Xpress & Hawaiian Grill, 8840 Knott Ave., Buena Park, Closed: Aug. 1, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 8
  • Update: La Barca at 151 W. Whittier Blvd., La Habra, which was ordered closed July 31 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen Aug. 6.

Did you get food poisoning at a restaurant? Report it here!

Important update on the changes to the eastbound 22 Freeway at Bristol

Posted on by Posted in Garden Grove, OCTA, public works, Santa Ana, Traffic, Transportation 1 Comment

Construction for this project has just started and is expected to finish in Summer 2021. The purpose of this project is to improve safety for the Eastbound SR-22 freeway Interchange at SR-57, and the I-5 freeways.

The Bristol Street On-ramp will continue to provide access to SR-57 Northbound, I-5 Northbound, and I-5 Southbound. Only the access to the SR-22 Eastbound will be removed. Motorists will still be able to access Eastbound SR-22 from the City Drive or Main Street/Town and Country On-ramps.

There are no detours through Santa Ana neighborhoods! (See above detour map.)

Most work and detours will occur at night. Detour signs will be placed on affected arterials.

A meeting to provide further information about this project will be held on Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The meeting location is:
Izaak Walton League Cabin
1714 Santa Clara Avenue, Santa Ana, CA. 92706

After Project Completion

The removal of half a mile of the collector-distributor road concrete barrier as well as the extension of the concrete barrier to provide access to the horseshoe connector will have two significant impacts.

  • The access to Eastbound SR-22 immediately before the horseshoe connector will be closed.
  • The Bristol St. on ramp will only provide access to the horseshoe connector. It will no longer connect to Eastbound SR-22. (Motorists will still be to access Eastbound SR-22 from The City Dr on ramp.)

This week’s Cochino List includes Mariscos Hector and Tutti Frutti

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

The OC 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 July 25 to Aug. 2. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Mariscos Hector Nightclub, 1701 E. McFadden Ave., Suite K, Santa Ana, Closed: July 25, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 26
  • Tutti Frutti, 1702 N. Bristol St., Suite G, Santa Ana, Closed: July 31, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 31
  • Lau Dong Que, 9066 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, Closed: Aug. 2, Reason: Insufficient hot water
  • 7-Eleven, 8971 Katella Ave., Stanton, Closed: July 31, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 31
  • La Barca, 151 W. Whittier Blvd., La Habra, Closed: July 31, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Togo’s, 5642 E. La Palma Ave., Suite 104, Anaheim, Closed: July 30, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 31
  • Sawali, 3414 W. Ball Road, Suite G, Anaheim, Closed: July 30, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Bruxie, 180 Fifth St., Suite 120, Huntington Beach, Closed: July 29, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: July 31
  • Eurest cafe at Verizon, 15505 Sand Canyon Drive, Irvine, Closed: July 25, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 28
  • Update: Restaurant El Fortin, 10444 Dale Ave., Stanton, which was ordered closed July 25 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen July 29.

This week’s Cochino List includes Fonda’s Cake Bakery, Bristol Swap Mall and Rite Aid

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

The OC 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 July 16 to July 26. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Bristol Snack Bar at Bristol Swap Mall, 1204 S. Bristol St., Suite A3, Santa Ana, Closed: July 24, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: July 25
  • Fonda’s Cake Bakery, 12273 Westminster Ave., Santa Ana, Closed: July 16, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 24
  • Rite Aid, 1406 W. Edinger Ave., Santa Ana, Closed: July 18, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 19
  • Restaurant El Fortin, 10444 Dale Ave., Stanton, Closed: July 25, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • A&M Donut, 1510 E. Collins Ave., Orange, Closed: July 23, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 23
  • Revolucion, 205 N. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton, Closed: July 23, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 24
  • Lau Dong Que, 9066 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, Closed: July 22, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 23
  • Tortas “Nice”, 616 W. Chapman Ave., Placentia, Closed: July 22, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 26
  • A.K.’s Donuts, 736 W. Chapman Ave., Placentia, Closed: July 19, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 20
  • Update: 7-Eleven at 12505 Beach Blvd., Suite A1, Stanton, which had its permit downgraded to prepackaged foods only July 17 because of insufficient hot water, had its full permit reinstated July 19.
  • Update: Thai Time Cuisine at 330 N. Harbor Blvd., La Habra, which was ordered closed July 16 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen July 22

O.C. Settlement on homeless litigation finalized and is now in effect

Posted on by Posted in Courts, homeless, Orange County, Santa Ana 1 Comment

The landmark settlement agreement announced last week by Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do, the county’s lead negotiator for homeless litigation, was signed by all parties today and filed in Judge David O. Carter’s courtroom. The agreement is effective immediately.

The Orange County Catholic Worker and Ramirez settlement agreement includes the following components:

• Deputies may enforce anti-loitering and anti-camping laws immediately in restricted areas such as county parks, county flood control property, and county libraries, among others.
• The settlement agreement is applicable to the North and Central service planning areas of the County.
• The Orange County Sheriff’s Department will develop policies and procedures relating to the enforcement of the anti-camping and anti-loitering ordinances that meet the requirements of Martin v. City of Boise.
• The settlement includes the development of the Standards of Care for county-contracted homeless shelters. The Standard of Care will ensure that program eligibility, rights and responsibilities, staff training, grievance process, ADA compliance and services are implemented.
• Screenings and assessments will be made available to all homeless persons within the County of Orange who may be eligible for County-funded treatment programs and resources. When appropriate, the County will provide linkage to appropriate services and programs.

Supervisor Andrew Do Addressed the Court, Stating:

“The framework for the System of Care that the County has built, in part as a response to these lawsuits, will serve as a blueprint that, hopefully, other jurisdictions can adopt.”

“I am proud of the fact that these proposed settlements, for the North and Central Service Planning Areas in the County, strike a good balance between compassionate treatment of homeless residents and the County’s ability to address public health and safety concerns.”

“But, what I’m most proud of is the fact that the County’s System of Care was already in the process of being constructed, even before these lawsuits. Supervisor Bartlett and I began working on mental health started with the Mental Health Ad Hoc Committee over 4 years ago. This was followed up by my proposal for the position of Director of Care Coordination over three years ago, and continued with the opening of the Courtyard, Orange County’s first homeless shelter ever, four months later. The clearing out of the homeless encampments around the County became the County’s next focus to address the exploding public health and safety risks that came with those encampments, which led to us being before you the past 18 months.”

“I would like to thank the named and intervening cities, that have stepped up; they are working day and night to build innovative projects and contributing to the solution to homelessness,” said Supervisor Do. “The momentum that has been sustained by all of these cities, especially in the north SPA, has been instrumental in making Orange County a shining example of prudent, compassionate care for the homeless and made our settlements here today possible.”

Read Supervisor Do’s full statement to the court here.

This week’s Cochino List includes Olmos Market

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Food, Food & Health, Insects, OC Health Care, Restaurants, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The OC 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 July 12 to July 19. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Olmos Market, 1212 S. Bristol St., Suite 6, Santa Ana, Permit downgraded to prepackaged foods only: July 17, Reason: Insufficient hot water/plumbing in disrepair, Full permit reinstated: July 19.
  • Update: El Sahuayo Mexican Food, 1717 S. Main St., Santa Ana, closed July 8 because of a cockroach infestation, reopened July 12.
  • Hong Phai Deli, 10562 Westminster Ave., Suite C, Garden Grove, Closed: July 18, Reason: Cockroach infestation.
  • 7-Eleven, 12505 Beach Blvd., Suite A1, Stanton, Permit downgraded to prepackaged foods only: July 17, Reason: Insufficient hot water.
  • Thai Time Cuisine, 330 N. Harbor Blvd., La Habra, Closed: July 16, Reason: Cockroach infestation.
  • The Patio Marketplace, 17877 Von Karman Ave., Suite 110, Irvine, Closed: July 15, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: July 15.
  • Green China, 595 N. Tustin Ave., Orange, Closed: July 15, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 17.
  • Jimmy John’s, 912 E. Imperial Highway, Brea, Closed: July 12, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: July 12.
  • UOC!, 12172 Brookhurst St., Garden Grove, Closed: July 12, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 16.

This week’s Cochino List includes El Sahuayo Mexican Food, Los Amigos Market & Liquor and Seventeen Food Store

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

The OC 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 July 5 to July 12. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Seventeen Food Store, 2102 W. 17th St., Santa Ana, Closed: July 10, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 11
  • Los Amigos Market & Liquor, 2231 W. Fifth St., Santa Ana, Closed: July 8, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 11
  • El Sahuayo Mexican Food, 1717 S. Main St., Santa Ana, Closed: July 8, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Update: Casa del Rey at 230 W. Warner Ave., Suite 101, Santa Ana, closed July 3 because of insufficient hot water, reopened July 5.
  • La Vida Cantina at The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Suite A-209, Costa Mesa, Closed: July 9, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 11
  • The Home Depot, 601 S. Placentia Ave., Fullerton, Closed: July 10, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 12
  • Hong Kong Express, 930 W. Orangethorpe Ave., Fullerton, Closed: July 9, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 11
  • T.P. Banh Bao 2.5, 10032 McFadden Ave., Westminster, Closed: July 8, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: July 11
  • Beach Karaoke, 8560 Beach Blvd., Suite 101, Buena Park, Closed: July 8, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 9
  • El Pollo Loco, 1941 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, Closed: July 5, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 7
  • Update: Miguel’s at 26592 Towne Centre Drive, Lake Forest, closed July 3 because of a cockroach infestation, reopened July 5.

Work to begin on State Route 22 Safety Improvement Project

Posted on by Posted in Orange County, public works, Santa Ana, Traffic, Transportation Leave a comment

SANTA ANA – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will begin a $20 million safety improvement project on State Route 22 in Garden Grove, Santa Ana, and Orange from Brookhurst St to the horseshoe connector that services Northbound Interstate 5 and Northbound State Route 57. This project will widen the inside of the connector, remove a half a mile of the collector-distributor road concrete barrier, and extend the concrete barrier to provide access to the horseshoe connector.

Work will begin the week of July 22nd and end in the summer of 2021. The operation will mainly feature nighttime work and closures. Please expect delays during construction hours. Be advised, weather conditions may affect this operation.

Know before you go! To stay on top of roadwork for this project visit the project website (https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-12/district-12-current-projects/sr-22-safety-improvement-project) and sign up for commuter alerts. Follow Caltrans District 12 for the latest information on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.

To assist in planning your commute, view live traffic conditions using QuickMap (http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/) and planned lane closures (https://lcswebreports.dot.ca.gov/searchdistricts?district=12). For those with sensory disabilities requiring alternate formats (i.e. Braille, large print, sign language interpreter, etc.) and those needing information in a language other than English, please contact Justin Lesniewski at 657-328-6594 or TTY 711.

O.C. Registrar of Voters Vote Center Community Workshop set for July 18 in Santa Ana

Posted on by Posted in 2020 Elections, Civic Affairs, OC Voter Registrar, Politics, Santa Ana Leave a comment

Did you know that the Orange County Registrar of Voters is planning to make a big change to Voting Centers? California law requires extensive public outreach during the transition to Vote Centers – and a public workshop is in fact coming up here in Santa Ana on July 18, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Southwest Senior Center, located at 2201 W. McFadden Ave. Click here to see the Public Meeting Calendar.

A Vote Center is more than a traditional polling place-it’s a full-service voting experience. Cast your ballot at any location, stop by on the weekend, even register to vote.

There are many Voting Center benefits:

  • You’ll have the opportunity to vote at one of nearly 200 customer service centers located throughout Orange County – options include the opportunity to vote for 10 days prior to any election day, including Saturdays and Sundays.
  • You’ll be greeted and checked in electronically – with all of your voter data at our fingertips we’ll be able to solve any problems quickly.
  • Casting a ballot is also quick and easy, plus you can drop off your completed vote-by-mail ballot at any location.

Think of a Vote Center as your one-stop location for all things voting. Unlike traditional in-person options for voting, Vote Centers allow you to not only vote, but to solve voter registration issues, register to vote, get a replacement ballot, and get general assistance for 11 days, not just one. Plus, electronic check-in is more secure and speeds up the process – saving you valuable time.

Vote Centers mean many more options for voters. Elections are no longer a one-day event. Voting begins the month before any election day when every voter will receive a vote-by-mail ballot. Take advantage of the alternatives available to avoid congestion – from voting at home, drive-thru ballot drop-off, in-person options, returning your ballot via the United States Postal Service, or personally deliver your ballot to us – the choice is yours.

Site Selection Considerations:

  • Vote center and ballot dropoff location proximity to public transportation.
  • Vote center and ballot dropoff location proximity to communities with historically low vote by mail usage.
  • Vote center and ballot dropoff location proximity to population centers.
  • Vote center and ballot dropoff location proximity to language minority communities.
  • Vote center and ballot dropoff location proximity to voters with disabilities.
  • Vote center and ballot dropoff location proximity to communities with low rates of household vehicle ownership.
  • Vote center and ballot dropoff location proximity to low-income communities.
  • Vote center and ballot dropoff location proximity to communities of eligible voters who are not registered to vote and may need access to same day voter registration.
  • Vote center and ballot dropoff location proximity to geographically isolated populations, including Native American reservations.
  • Access to accessible and free parking at vote centers and ballot dropoff locations.
  • The distance and time a voter must travel by car or public transportation to a vote center and ballot dropoff location.
  • The need for alternate methods for voters with disabilities for whom vote by mail ballots are not accessible to cast a ballot.
  • Traffic patterns near vote centers and ballot dropoff locations.
  • The need for mobile vote centers in addition to the number of vote centers established pursuant to this section.
  • Room size and location
  • Free parking available
  • Facility availability for multiple days and extended hours, including weekends

California’s election laws govern how Vote Center elections are conducted. California Senate Bill 450 was passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor in 2016. The law authorizes counties to conduct any election as an all-mailed ballot election provided the jurisdiction provides ballot dropoff locations, vote centers and conducts outreach.

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This week’s Cochino List includes Great Khan’s Mongolian Grill and Casa del Rey

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Insects, OC Health Care, Restaurants, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The OC 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 June 27 to July 5. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

Great Khan’s Mongolian Grill at MainPlace Mall, 2800 N. Main St., Suite 920, Santa Ana, Closed: July 1, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 1

Casa del Rey, 230 W. Warner Ave., Suite 101, Santa Ana, Closed: July 3, Reason: Insufficient hot water

Ristorante Genovese, 214 N. Tustin St., Orange, Closed: July 2, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 2

Arthur’s Coffee Shop, 240 N. Tustin St., Orange, Closed: July 1, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 2

Miguel’s, 26592 Towne Centre Drive, Lake Forest, Closed: July 3, Reason: Cockroach infestation

Restaurant El Fortin, 10444 Dale Ave., Stanton, Closed: July 3, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 4

Rocket at 76 station, 5502 Orangethorpe Ave., La Palma, Closed: July 3, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 4

Ways and Means at Pacific City, 21022 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, Closed: July 2, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 2

Wienerschnitzel, 1951 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, Closed: July 2, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 3

Juice Station, 12096 Brookhurst St., Garden Grove, Closed: July 1, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: July 3

La Vida Cantina at The Triangle, 1870 Harbor Blvd., Suite A-209, Costa Mesa, Closed: July 1, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened July 2

Phans 55 at Pacific City, 21058 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite M-134, Huntington Beach, Closed: July 1, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: July 2

Poki Roll, 5721 Lincoln Ave., Suite C, Cypress, Closed: June 27, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 3

El Torito, 24301 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills, Closed: June 27, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 28

Update: The Bird at 912 Williamson Ave., Fullerton, which on June 26 had its health permit downgraded to serve prepackaged food only because of insufficient hot water and plumbing in disrepair, had its full permit reinstated June 28.

This week’s Cochino List includes the Santa Ana Country Club, MJ Cafe and Original Mike’s (again)

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Restaurants, Santa Ana 1 Comment

The OC 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 June 21 to June 28 . Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Carniceria Zaragoza’s, 1229 S. Main St., Santa Ana, Closed: June 27, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: June 27
  • Restaurant at Santa Ana Country Club, 20382 Newport Blvd., Santa Ana, Closed: June 27, Reason: Rodent/cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 27
  • Original Mike’s, 100 S. Main St., Santa Ana, Closed: June 24, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 25
  • MJ Cafe, 1640 E. First St., Suite H, Santa Ana, Closed: June 24, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 25
  • The Bird, 912 Williamson Ave., Fullerton, Permit downgraded to prepackaged foods only: June 26, Reason: Insufficient hot water/plumbing in disrepair
  • Yaho Grill, 9111 Valley View, Suite 105, Cypress, Closed: June 26, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Thai Famous, 11891 Euclid St., Garden Grove, Closed: June 26, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 27
  • Pita Hot, 1343 E. Chapman Ave., Fullerton, Closed: June 25, Reason: Ongoing foodborne illness investigation, Reopened: June 28
  • Roll Star Sushi, 1841 W. Lincoln Ave., Suite B, Anaheim, Closed: June 21, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 24
  • Denny’s, 1168 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, Closed: June 21, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 22

Orange County allocates $5 million toward affordable housing

Posted on by Posted in Affordable Housing, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

Orange County is investing millions of dollars to increase affordable housing for low-income families and the homeless.

Under the county’s Fiscal Year 2019-2020 budget, the Orange County Board of Supervisors approved Supervisor Andrew Do’s proposal to allocate $5 million toward the Orange County Housing Finance Trust. In March, Orange County Supervisors unanimously approved the agreement to launch the regional housing body to address the region’s affordable housing shortage.

“Orange County has a desperate need for more affordable housing,” said Supervisor Andrew Do, who worked with a broad-based coalition to launch the joint powers authority. “The Orange County Housing Finance Trust will work with our cities and community leaders to fast-track financing for new housing for low-income families and the homeless.”  

The Orange County Housing Finance Trust, which is comprised of the county and cities, is tasked with fulfilling the county’s desperate need for additional affordable housing units. Orange County has set an ambitious goal to build 2,700 new permanent supportive housing units, which provide medical, mental health and employment services for the homeless.

A family of four earning less than $85,600 per year will be eligible to participate in housing projects sponsored by the housing trust. 

 “Our goal is to bring everyone together – cities, business leaders, non-profit organizations, homeless advocates and homebuilders,” said Supervisor Do, who will represent the county on the OC Housing Finance Trust Board of Directors. “This $5 million allocation is a down payment towards obtaining additional state and federal funding for affordable housing.”

County officials see the OC Housing Trust as a strategic vehicle for obtaining state and federal grants for both supportive and affordable housing initiatives. In addition to $1 million in state funds, the OC Housing Trust will seek funding from No Place Like Home, Housing for a Healthy California, Low Income Housing Trust Fund, and Veteran Housing and Homeless Prevention Program as well as Community Development Block Grant funds.

Last year, Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill (AB) 448, which authorized the establishment of the countywide housing authority. Following the passage of AB 448, Supervisor Do, then Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, collaborated with representatives from the Association of California Cities–Orange County, city officials and community leaders to draft an initial framework and agency governing documents. The first meeting of the Orange County Housing Finance Trust is set for this Thursday, June 27. 

Vector Control urges residents to join #MissionTipNToss to protect the community from mosquitoes

Posted on by Posted in Insects, Orange County, Orange County Vector Control District, Santa Ana Leave a comment

While the recent rain may have helped bring the warm temperatures down, it also created small pools of standing water in backyards, turning them into mosquito breeding sources and possible public health threats to the community. In honor of the National Mosquito Control Awareness Week (June 23 – 29, 2019), the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD) is launching the “#MissionTipNToss” campaign, urging residents to join the mission of tipping out water and tossing out unneeded containers to protect the community from the dangers of mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses.

“The #MissionTipNToss campaign provides opportunities for vector control staff to interact and engage with the community while sharing the message of mosquito prevention,” said Mary-Joy Coburn, Public Information Officer for OCMVCD. “Mosquito and vector control is a shared responsibility. This is an opportunity for the residents to show us what they are doing to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

To kick off National Mosquito Control Awareness Week and the summer season:

The District is launching the #MissionTipNToss video challenge, urging residents to show how they tip out water and toss out unneeded containers from their home or workplace to help reduce mosquito production. The residents are also encouraged to nominate friends to do the same, all to raise awareness about mosquitoes and the diseases they carry.

The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District challenges the following agencies in the #MissionTipNToss Challenge: City of Anaheim, City of Garden Grove, City of Orange, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, and the Miami-Dade County Mosquito Control. Show us how you tip out standing water and toss out unneeded containers at home or in the workplace. You have one week to complete the challenge!

Individual challenges for the #MissionTipNToss Challenge are also underway. Here is a compilation of some videos already filmed. Residents are encouraged to inspect their backyards, eliminate any potential mosquito breeding sources, and nominate their friends to do the same. Be sure to use #MissionTipNToss so we can find your video.

  • The District is releasing a Public Service Announcement video about mosquito prevention in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese
  • The District’s social media pages will be highlighting mosquito prevention tips and tricks and awarding prizes to engaged participants
  • OCMVCD has partnered with local cities to post 50 bus shelters and billboards throughout the county this summer with the #MissionTipNToss message
  • 25 OCTA buses will be displaying the message on their routes throughout the county
  • 240 Interior bus cards in English and Spanish will be posted in OCTA buses

There are currently no confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in Orange County, however two dead birds collected from the City of Tustin indicated traces of West Nile virus. So far in the state, six counties show West Nile virus activity in dead birds and mosquito samples; no human cases have been reported.

Orange County is also home to invasive Aedes mosquitoes, which can transmit Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever. There have been no local outbreaks of these viruses in the county, however the presence of Aedesmosquitoes increases the risk. These mosquitoes are now established in 28 cities and unincorporated areas around the county.

Follow the tips below to prevent mosquito bites:

  • Apply mosquito repellents to exposed skin before going outdoors; reapply as recommended
  • Wear repellent containing DEET®, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
  • Close all unscreened doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home or space, and repair broken or damaged screens
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and opt for lighter colored clothing

Around the home, eliminating breeding sources for mosquitoes is critical:

  • Dump and drain containers filled with water at least once a week
  • Clean and scrub bird baths and pet water bowls weekly
  • Dump water from potted plant saucers

Orange County residents are urged to report unusual numbers of mosquitoes, or day-biting mosquitoes, to OCMVCD. For more information, please contact the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District at (714) 971-2421 or (949) 654-2421, or visit www.ocvector.org.

This week’s Cochino List includes Original Mike’s

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

The OC 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 June 13 to June 21. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

Here is the list:

  • Original Mike’s, 100 S. Main St., Santa Ana, Closed: June 21, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 21
  • Update: The Burger Stop at 2302 S. Broadway, Santa Ana, closed June 11 because of insufficient hot water, reopened June 12.
  • Center Club, 650 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, Closed: June 20, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 20
  • Pita Hot, 1343 E. Chapman Ave., Fullerton, Closed: June 19, Reason: Ongoing foodborne illness investigation, Reopened: June 20
  • Chick-fil-a, 1647 E. Imperial Highway, Brea, Closed: June 19, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: June 19
  • Poke Cafe, 3109 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, Closed: June 19, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 20
  • Tandoori Garden, 30 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, Closed: June 18, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 19
  • The Loft Hawaiian Restaurant, 7862 Warner Ave., Suite 105, Huntington Beach, Closed: June 18, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 19
  • M Bakery, 13038 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, Closed: June 18, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 19
  • 7-Eleven, 1097 Baker St., Costa Mesa, Closed: June 17, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 18
  • Cafe Sky, 9550 Bolsa Ave., Suite 129, Westminster, Closed: June 13, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 14
  • Mazara Trattoria, 18027 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, Closed: June 13, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 15
  • Update: Walt’s Wharf at 201 Main St., Seal Beach, closed June 7 because of a rodent infestation, reopened June 14.

This week’s Cochino List includes the Burger Stop and a 99c Only Store

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

The OC 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 June 6 to June 14. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved. Here is the list:

  • Pho Moc Restaurant, 3708 Westminster Ave., Santa Ana, Closed: June 11, Reason: Operating without a valid health permit, Reopened: June 11
  • The Burger Stop, 2302 S. Broadway, Santa Ana, Closed: June 11, Reason: Insufficient hot water
  • 99c Only Stores, 2311 S. Bristol St., Santa Ana, Closed: June 10, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 11
  • Birrieria Barba Loca, 2031 E. First St., Suite A5, Santa Ana, Closed: June 7, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: June 10
  • Peking Kitchen, 413 W. 17th St., Suite 101, Santa Ana, Closed: June 6, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 7
  • Charley’s Philly Steaks at The Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd., Suite F4, Orange, Closed: June 10, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 11
    La Langosta    , 13571 Harbor Blvd., Garden Grove, Closed: June 13, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 14
  • Inka Grill, 260 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, Closed: June 13, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 14
  • Fa-Sai Thai, 12910 Harbor Blvd., Garden Grove, Closed: June 12, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 13
  • Aioli, 2540 Main St., Suite L, Irvine, Closed: June 12, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 13
  • Ding Tea, 9828 Garden Grove Blvd., Suite 104, Garden Grove, Closed: June 12, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: June 12
  • Anaheim Moose Lodge, 317 W. Cerritos Ave., Anaheim, Closed: June 11, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 11
  • Donut Depot, 1660 Dove St., Newport Beach, Closed: June 11, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Terrace Grille at Mission Viejo Country Club, 26200 Country Club Drive, Mission Viejo, Closed: June 11, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 11
  • Cafe International, 3198 Airport Loop Drive., Suite H2A, Costa Mesa, Closed: June 10, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 13
  • Jersey Mike’s Subs, 23572 El Toro Road, Suite B, Lake Forest, Closed: June 10, Reason: Ongoing foodborne illness investigation, Reopened: June 11
  • Pom & Olive, 1400 Bristol St., Suite C, Costa Mesa, Closed: June 10, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 11
  • Kitchen at St. Justin Martyr, 2050 W. Ball Road, Anaheim, Closed: June 7, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Oggi’s, 2595 E. Chapman Ave., Fullerton, Closed: June 7, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • W Cafe, 16205 Sand Canyon Ave., Suite 110, Irvine, Closed: June 7, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 7
  • Walt’s Wharf, 201 Main St., Seal Beach, Closed: June 7, Reason: Rodent infestation
  • Chao Village, 430 S. Euclid St., Anaheim, Closed: June 6, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: June 7
  • Kitchen at Glowzone, 7227 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach, Closed: June 6, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: June 7