VĂN HÓA ONLINE - VĂN HÓA 3 ĐỊA LÝ-XÃ HỘI NHÂN VĂN – THỨ BA 03 FEB 2026
Janet's Journal - February Newsletter
February 1, 2026
Looking ahead in 2026
As we move further into 2026, I want to take a moment to reflect on the progress we made last year during my first year back representing the First District. Serving all of you is an honor, and I remain focused on delivering results that reflect your priorities and the responsibilities of this office.
Last year, my work centered on accountability, public safety, fiscal responsibility, and policies that improve quality of life. We took decisive steps to restore trust in County government by addressing the Andrew Do corruption scandal, recovering $2.4 million in stolen property proceeds, and ensuring records were preserved to support ongoing investigations.
We also took action to protect homeowners and working families by preventing costly AQMD rule changes and securing a landmark agreement with the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to reduce emissions responsibly. Additional achievements included improving transparency and public access at OC Animal Care, passing a countywide ban on synthetic kratom to protect youth, and saving taxpayers $2.9 million by stopping an unnecessary mental health advertising contract.
Looking ahead, I remain committed to oversight, common-sense solutions, and responsive service. Thank you for the trust you place in me. It is a responsibility I take seriously every day.
Grants approved
In December, we approved funding to advance public health, housing, environmental protection, and public safety. The County received $4.76 million for STI prevention and $2.81 million to expand the Nurse Family Partnership home visiting program. Community health planning and environmental cleanup oversight were supported by $990,678 from CalOptima Health and $1.18 million from the State Water Resources Control Board. Additional funding supported transitional housing, nutrition outreach, homelessness services, and regional emergency preparedness.
In January, we approved funding focused on fraud prevention, watershed planning, and homelessness assistance. The County received $244,492 for unemployment fraud investigations and $580,000 for cooperative watershed planning in North/Central and South Orange County. An additional $7.79 million expanded the Bringing Families Home and Home Safe programs to strengthen housing stability for families and vulnerable adults.
Patriot Point ribbon cutting
I attended the ribbon cutting for Patriot Point in Huntington Beach. This was the vision of Vietnam War veteran and purple heart recipient Zachary Martinez — to create a peaceful place of reflection to remember and honor our veterans and service members. Although Zachary is no longer with us, his spirit still lives at Patriot Point.
OC Sheriff’s
Technology Center tour
I toured the OC Sheriff’s Technology Center with Sheriff Barnes. This impressive facility improves operational efficiency and effectiveness. It features state-of-the-art technology to help law enforcement during active incidents.
Giving gifts with the
Huntington Beach Elks
I joined the Huntington Beach Elks Lodge to prepare for a trip to Orangewood Children’s Home to deliver gifts during the holiday season.
Recognizing Hal Yoak
This 100-year-old toymaker is a WWII Navy veteran. Hal Yoak has been making wooden children’s toys out of his Garden Grove garage for decades. I awarded him a proclamation for his kindness.
Honoring Mayor Ted Bui
I presented a proclamation to honor Fountain Valley Mayor Ted Bui for his service to our community over the past year serving as Mayor. Congratulations!
Giving back to
our military families
I dropped off 300 toys for military families at the LosAl Training Base in partnership with OC SSA. My boys and I also joined HB’s Kiwanis Club and Elks Lodge in serving meals for the 11th Military Police Brigade.
47th Seal Beach Christmas Parade
I attended the 47th Seal Beach Christmas Parade with grand marshal Perla Mendoza of Project Eli. It was a wonderful evening of holiday magic and community spirit. Special thank you to the Lions Club of Seal Beach for organizing this great tradition.
Holiday Open House
My staff worked hard to create an awesome open house where we served hundreds of people and met many of you, including our local elected Mayor and Councilmembers. Hope to see everyone again next year!
Orange County Hall of Fame
Class of 2025
The County awarded 10 outstanding residents in our annual Hall of Fame ceremony. I nominated surf legend Robert August of “Endless Summer” fame and renowned philanthropist Ed Laird for this honor. Former Supervisor Gaddi Vasquez was also honored.
Honoring our Huntington Beach Fire Department
I brought forward a resolution honoring our Huntington Beach Fire Department, Marine Safety Division for their summer of no drownings. Thank you for giving us parents the tools we need to keep our kids safe.
4th Annual Artificial Intelligence Business Summit
Check out Garden Grove’s 4th Annual Artificial Intelligence Business Summit. Join workshops and a roundtable focused on the future of AI in organizations on Feb. 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For more information click here
Fountain Valley Lunar
New Year Festival
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at the Fountain Valley Recreation Center on Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy games, crafts, and fun activities highlighting the holiday’s rich history and culture.
For more information click here
Popups at the Pier
Spend a Saturday at Pop-Ups at the Pier in Seal Beach to shop and support local small businesses and local artisans. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., stroll the pier, enjoy live music, and shop local.
For more information click here
Westminster Library
Tet Celebration
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at the Westminster Library on Feb. 7 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enjoy a lively Lion Dance, cultural performances, crafts for all ages, a traditional beverage from the Charlie Cart, and lucky red envelopes with a chance to win a prize.
For more information click here
Valentine’s Hearts United Luncheon & Auction
Celebrate the Valentine’s season with the Rotary Club on Feb. 10 from 11:50 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This annual luncheon and auction brings the community together in support of local nonprofits and students. Proceeds help fund over $70,000 in annual contributions to organizations and youth across Los Alamitos, Cypress, and Seal Beach.
For more information click here
Westminster Valentine’s
Day Luncheon
Celebrate friendship and community on Feb. 11 at 11:30 a.m. at the Westminster Senior Center. Enjoy a delicious lunch, sweet treats, and great company for just $5. Tickets are available at the Senior Center front desk—reserve yours before they sell out!
For more information click here
Flower Street on Historic Main
Enjoy a free community celebration on Historic Main Street from Feb. 13 to 15, featuring beautiful flower displays, lion dances, folk games, live music, a magic show, and family-friendly activities for all ages.
For more information click here
HB Scam Prevention Series
On Feb. 18, the City of Huntington Beach continues its monthly Scam Prevention Series at 6 p.m. at the Huntington Beach Central Library (Talbert Room). Get expert advice from the Huntington Beach Police Department and the City Treasurer’s Office on identifying scams and protecting yourself from fraud.
For more information click here
2026 Westminster Tet Parade
Celebrate the Lunar New Year in the heart of Little Saigon on Feb. 21. Enjoy a vibrant parade featuring floats, marching bands, lion dances, cultural performances, and community groups as the City of Westminster honors the rich heritage and traditions of the Vietnamese-American community. Admission is free.
For more information click here
La Palma Compost, Shredding & E-Waste Collection Event
Join the City of La Palma and EDCO at Walker Junior High School on Feb. 28 from 8 to 11 a.m. for free document shredding, e-waste recycling, and compost distribution (while supplies last). Bring your own bags and tools for compost, and proof of La Palma residency is required.
For more information click here
Veterans Stand Down
Veterans in need are invited to Veterans Stand Down on Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Garden Grove Elks Lodge. The event offers meals, housing assistance, health care resources, grooming services, and additional support services.
For more information click here
HB Wetlands Conservancy 3rd Saturday Community Event
Every 3rd Saturday of the month from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the Huntington Beach Wetlands Conservancy hosts a volunteer community event to help care and maintain our marsh and dune habitats. Volunteers of all ages are welcome to help with activities like planting native species, removing invasive plants, and general clean up. Tools and supplies are provided.
For more information click here
Surf City Nights
This winter, visit Downtown Huntington Beach every Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m. for Surf City Nights. Stroll and shop from local pop-up vendors, eat delicious street food, enjoy live music, and support Downtown HB businesses in a family friendly and vibrant environment.
