Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento - 2nd District Newsletter

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OC Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, 2nd District

September 23, 2024

Dear Friends and Neighbors:

During our last Board of Supervisors meeting, we had the opportunity to thank and recognize the work of emergency responders, including our own emergency operations team.

The presentation was especially significant given that fire and law enforcement personnel have been actively responding to the Airport Fire near Trabuco Canyon. My thoughts are with all those that are affected by the fire, and I am focused on making sure we support those residents with resources as they recover and rebuild.

But preparation is something that is not the sole responsibility of trained professionals. It is important that each of us prepare, in advance, to be ready for a potential emergency that can range from a natural disaster to something as common as a power outage or house fire.

When we think of emergencies, most of us think of earthquakes, floods and wildfires. Here in the Second District, we don’t face the same threat of wildfires or floods as do other areas of the County. Due to the urban characteristics of our cities, we are increasingly threatened by heatwaves, which pose significant health and safety risks to our residents.

The most recent heatwave brought triple digit daytime temperatures with little relief overnight. During such a heatwave, dense urban areas typically experience significantly warmer temperatures. We know people in urban areas are more vulnerable to dangerous heat impacts and can experience heat related illnesses, dehydration, increase risks from existing chronic conditions, and mental health issues.

To prepare yourself and your family, prepare emergency supplies, including plenty of water (at least one gallon per person for at least 3 days). Make sure to have your needed medicines, especially if you are susceptible to heat induced illnesses or have chronic conditions – and don’t forget that there are available cooling centers open during heatwaves.

These high heat conditions require us to change our routines to stay safe. Focus on hydration, reduce strenuous activity and don’t ignore the signs of heat illness. Most importantly, remember to check in on family, friends, and neighbors who may be more at-risk during these extreme events.

Vicente Sarmiento
Supervisor, Second District
Orange County Board of Supervisors

Yasie Goebel
Chief of Staff

Rosemary Contreras
Operations Manager

Robert Villegas
Communications Advisor

Richard Santana
Community Outreach Manager

Manuel J. Escamilla
Senior Policy Advisor

Vasila Ahmad
Policy Advisor

Carlos Valenzuela
Policy Advisor

Damiana Armendariz
Executive Assistant

Thank You to Our Part-Time Staff
Joese Hernandez, Jessie Lopez, Jonathan Rivas

Thank You To Our Interns
Leisa Komyo, Briana Olallo, Diego Sanchez, Justin Soto

Stay Updated!

	SupervisorSarmiento.com

	Vicente.Sarmiento@ocgov.com

	714.834.3220

In Community

Supervisor Sarmiento Celebrates Mexican Independence in Santa Ana and Anaheim

This year marked the 44th edition of the Fiestas Patrias Parade in Santa Ana! It was an honor to have Ballet Folklorico Donaji march with us, beautifully representing the vibrant state of Jalisco, Mexico. I enjoyed seeing so many friends and families along the parade route. There was an incredible turnout of community members in celebration of Mexican Independence, history and culture.

(Top Left Photo) SAUSD President, Carolyn Torres, and (Top Right Photo) Santa Ana Boxer, Alexis Rocha, and SAUSD Board Member, Katie Aceves Brazer, participated in the Fiestas Patrias Parade. (Bottom Photo) California Attorney General, Rob Bonta, showed his support and joined in the celebration.

I was honored to join the City of Anaheim for their first-ever official El Grito ceremony at Pearson Park. Dr. Audrey Rivera Gómez, Mexican Consul in Santa Ana, led the crowd in the Grito, the traditional call to arms that commemorates the beginning of the war for Mexican Independence. Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken, and local leaders celebrated this important event and marked the occasion with music and cultural performances. It was a great evening for all the families that joined in celebrating this important milestone in Mexican History. ¡Feliz Día de la Independencia de México! Happy Mexican Independence Day!

Mayor Aitken and Consul Rivera Gómez join the crowd in celebrating.

Supervisor Sarmiento Presents Cal Optima Health Grant to Chapman University

As Vice Chair of CalOptima Health, I had the honor to present Chapman University with a 5,000,000 dollar grant to provide full tuition for first and second-year physician assistant students from low-income backgrounds attending the Rinker Health Campus! I was so happy to meet the students onsite and see first-hand how this grant will make a difference in their personal lives and careers.

By supporting local students today, we enable them to train and work within our communities. This will enhance cultural competency in the profession, ultimately improving the quality of care that county residents receive. Many thanks to CalOptima Health’s dedicated staff and to Chapman University for their leadership and partnership for the benefit of the health and well-being of our residents.

Check presentation to Chapman students and faculty: Paws Up!

Supervisor Sarmiento Helps Support the Legacy of Anthony Garcia

My team organized and hosted a blood drive in memory of Anthony Garcia, in collaboration with his incredible family, Councilwoman Jessie Lopez and Jerry Almendarez, SAUSD Superintendent. Anthony’s legacy, Échele Ganas, continues to inspire us all. His life was a true example of kindness, strength, and the belief that nobody fights alone. Though Anthony lost his battle, his spirit lives on, and we are dedicated to carrying on his legacy. Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this event a success. Together, we will continue to honor Anthony’s life and make a lasting impact.

I’m very proud of my team who took part in the effort, contributing to the collection of 25 units—a step in continuing the fight against Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

Supervisor Sarmiento Celebrates the Culture and Heritage of the State of Morelos

It was an honor to meet with the Governor Elect of Morelos, Mexico, Lic. Margarita González Saravia and members of her team. The conversation focused on the cultural, educational, and familial ties between the people of Morelos and the Morelos community here in southern California. We had the pleasure of celebrating the vibrant music and culture of the region at a fantastic two-day carnival in Santa Ana organized by Morelenses from Orange County. It was a remarkable opportunity to participate and collaborate in this celebration that brings our two countries together.

The vibrant Danza de los Chinelos, with its colorful costumes and striking masks, is one of Morelos’ most traditional representations. Truly enjoyed meeting with the governor elect and her team.

Supervisor Sarmiento Hosts Seniors at Estate Planning Presentation

On National Grandparents Day, I had the honor of joining a group of seniors for a presentation and lively question and answer session regarding estate planning. Planning for our passing is so important and yet many of us are not prepared. This is often a difficult topic for individuals and their families to discuss. I applaud the seniors that joined us for their courage and commitment to protecting their families, by making their wishes clear.

Information was provided in English and Spanish from legal experts who volunteered their time to answer questions on wills and trusts. Thank you to our presenters from the Elder Law and Disability Rights Center, the Thurgood Marshall Foundation and the Hispanic Bar Association of Orange County. A special thanks to the Second Baptist Church of Santa Ana for making their campus available for the workshop.

Seniors engaged in a lively conversation regarding wills and trusts.

Team Sarmiento Joins Back to School Events at Eisenhower Elementary, Santiago High School, and Los Amigos High School

My team and I were delighted to support the kick-off of the Back to School and Resource Fair events at Eisenhower Elementary, Santiago High School, and Los Amigos High School. This was the first time our office gathered on the school campuses to share county resources with our students and families. We had a fantastic turnout and were thrilled to engage with so many community members! At the end of the last school year, Garden Grove Unified School District was awarded a state grant through the Community Schools Partnership Program. All three schools received this funding to implement the Community School plan. I am happy to support the growth and learning of our community by connecting our families to essential resources.

My Policy and Legislative Affairs intern, Briana Olallo, had the opportunity to distribute backpacks and prizes to students at Eisenhower Elementary. She also shared valuable information about the resources available to our families and engaged the students with an interactive educational game.

Supervisor Sarmiento Recognizes the Work of Rehabilitation Professionals

I was proud to highlight Rehabilitation Awareness Week at our last Board of Supervisor’s meeting. During the presentation we celebrated the great efforts of rehabilitation professionals who work, day in and day out, to support individuals on their journey to recovery.

Rehabilitation services offer a wide range of therapeutic interventions aimed at helping individuals recover from injury, illness, or surgery. We have all been profoundly impacted by the tireless dedication and commitment of these professionals. This field includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other specialized treatments aimed at improving mobility, functionality, and overall quality of life.

UCI Health representatives attended our presentation, highlighting the outstanding contributions of our rehabilitation professionals to the community.

Supervisor Sarmiento Joins in Supporting the Orange International Street Fair

This Labor Day weekend, I joined the celebration at the Orange International Street Fair in Old Town Orange, a beloved annual event and local staple. My team and I were proud to support this fantastic community gathering by providing essential county resources, enjoying delicious food and drinks, listening to local entertainment, and interacting with unique vendors.

Much of the proceeds benefited small local businesses and nonprofits in our community. It was wonderful to meet many of the residents and visitors that attended this terrific annual event.

The crowds enjoyed the music on one of the many stages. I joined with City of Orange Councilmember Ana Gutierrez to welcome residents to the event.

Team Sarmiento Celebrates Restoration of Santa Ana’s LaRaza Mural

Our team participated in the neighborhood celebration of this important piece of Santa Ana history. We celebrated the work of the Artesia Pilar Neighborhood Association for leading the charge in preserving this important piece of history. The restored La Raza mural at Civic Center and Hawley captures the history of the area beautifully and it was a special moment to recognize the original artists—Jorge Ruiz, Gilly Rodarte, Steve, Roger, and Jaime—for their invaluable contributions to Chicano art and to our community.

This mural is a powerful symbol of our community’s rich culture and resilience.

Supervisor Sarmiento Encourages Individuals on Their Recovery Journey

In celebration of National Recovery Month, we joined OC Health Care Agency at their 2nd Annual Recovery Happens Picnic & Family Fun Day. The event celebrated the strength of those on their recovery journeys and the vital support of family, friends, and peers. Recovery is a collective journey, and together, we’re stronger. Do you, or someone you know, need help? Visit OCNavigator.org or call 855-625-4657.

Happy to join with HCA Director, Dr. Veronica Kelley, and the staff to support the important work that they do.

Supervisor Sarmiento Meets with Sahuayo Mayor

It was great to welcome Mayor Dr. Manuel Gálvez Sánchez from Sahuayo, Michoacán, México to the County Board of Supervisors office. As Supervisor for the 2nd District. I’m proud to continue strengthening the relationship between Santa Ana and Michoacán. We’re deepening our collaboration in art, culture, and economic development.