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SENATOR NEWMAN’S JULY 2024 NEWSLETTER
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
July is a time for both celebration and reflection, providing plentiful opportunities for us to unite as a community. As we move into the heart of summer, there are numerous events that will shape the month in our area to bring us closer and remind us of the values we cherish. In light of recent events, this is more important than ever.
We began July by commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, signed on July 2, 1964. This landmark federal legislation prohibited discrimination in public spaces, integrated schools and other public facilities, and made discrimination in employment illegal. It represented the most sweeping civil rights legislation since Reconstruction and remains a cornerstone of our country’s ongoing commitment to equality and justice.
At the beginning of the month, we also celebrated Independence Day, honoring our county’s founding principles. It was wonderful to see so many of you at various parades, community events, and fireworks displays. Be sure to check out some of the great photos from the various local celebrations later in this newsletter.
July is also “National Ice Cream Month,” with “National Ice Cream Day” on July 21st. Whether you prefer the classic flavors or adventurous combinations, it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in a sweet treat to beat the summer heat.
Later in the month, on July 29th, we’ll commemorate the establishment of NASA and celebrate the pioneering spirit of space exploration that has continually expanded the boundaries of human achievement.
July 31st is “National Avocado Day” – they’re not only tasty but also a key part of our agricultural economy. About 90% of the avocados grown in the United States are grown right here in California.
This month, we also celebrate National Parks & Recreation Month, and our local parks offer a wonderful escape into nature, providing spaces for recreation, reflection, and relaxation. I hope you’ll take some time to explore and enjoy all the incredible outdoor spaces our state has to offer. At the end of every newsletter, I try to provide some district resources, and this month is all about how to get a free Park Pass to explore California’s State Parks.
On Friday, July 26th, the 2024 Paris Olympics will kick off with the opening ceremonies. Every four years, the summer games bring together athletes from around the world to compete and inspire us with their dedication and sportsmanship. This truly global event is a time to celebrate unity, perseverance, and the incredible achievements of the athletes. Let’s cheer on Team USA as they highlight the best of the best.
All the best,
Josh Newman
Senator, 29th District
District Updates
California-Japan Legislative Forum Launch Reception
L to R: Consul General Kenko Sone, Asm. Al Muratsuchi, Councillor Iwao Horii, Sen. Josh Newman, Sen. Dave Cortese, Consul General Yo Osumi
On June 24th, I had the privilege of serving as a co-host for the launch reception for the California-Japan Legislative Forum alongside my colleagues, Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi and Senator Dave Cortese. We were joined by Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles Kenko Sone, Consul General of Japan in San Francisco Yo Osumi, and Councillor Iwao Horii of the House of Councillors, the upper legislative house in the Japanese Diet.
The Forum represents an important shared effort at strengthening the ties between our two legislatures. It will enhance the cooperation between California and Japan to address our shared priorities like developing clean energy, fighting climate change, and building on the innovation of two of the largest economies in the world.
Senate District 29’s Nonprofit of the Year
I was immensely proud to be able to recognize the Boys & Girls Club of Buena Park as the 29thSenate District’s Nonprofit of the Year for 2024. For more than 70 years, the Boys & Girls Club of Buena Park has been meeting the social, educational, and recreational needs of disadvantaged, low-income youth in the community. As one of the many Boys & Girls Clubs in Orange County and the only after-school program operating in Buena Park, the Club has made a significant positive impact on our community by providing a safe space for kids to explore and grow.
The Club’s impact is evident – according to the national organization, 97% of Club teens expect to graduate from high school and 76% of low-income teens attending the Club regularly report receiving mostly As and Bs in school.
In offering year-round programming, including a robust summer program, the Club supports the personal and academic development of youth and teens as they continue to grow into confident young adults. The Club’s interactive programs, like the teen podcast program, S.T.E.A.M. club, and Keystone leadership development program, all offer new and exciting learning experiences for youth members to cultivate their talents and sharpen their skills. After-school programs like this not only provide a crucial resource to families but also build lifelong friendships and connections among their members.
Congratulations to the Boys & Girls Club of Buena Park on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your invaluable contributions in supporting the next generation of leaders and trailblazers.
Caltrans-Chrysalis Project Visit
Chrysalis is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing workforce development services to individuals navigating workforce entry barriers. Their mission focuses on helping those with a "professionalism deficit," a term describing individuals who have been out of the mainstream workforce for extended periods due to circumstances such as homelessness or incarceration.
A key partnership with Caltrans offers formerly unhoused or incarcerated individuals the chance to obtain employment in landscaping and beautification projects. This partnership provides well-paying jobs, financial stability, and essential skills such as consistency, responsibility, and professionalism. Many participants view these jobs as a critical step in their journey back into society.
Chrysalis operates six locations throughout California, each serving as a hub for its transformative programs. Their impact is significant, with numerous success stories of individuals who have transitioned from challenging circumstances to productive, stable lives through the support and opportunities provided by Chrysalis.
Independence Day Celebrations:
Chino Hills Fourth of July Celebration
Chino Hills Independence Day Concert at the Park
There was no better way to celebrate the Fourth of July festivities than attending the Chino Hills Independence Day Celebration. Growing up, I always looked forward to the city’s annual Independence Day concert at the park. It was an incredible honor to attend this beloved community event this year, both as a Chino Hills native and a representative of Senate District 29! -Christiane
Fullerton Fourth of July Celebration
I had the honor and privilege of attending my hometown of Fullerton’s Fourth of July celebrations. Between the activities, live music, and people, I had the most fun seeing folks participate in the bike parade and car show. Growing up in North Orange County, there’s one thing that everyone knows – Fullertonians have the community spirit! –Scott
La Palma Fourth of July Celebration
The La Palma Independence Day Run for Fun is an annual 10K run and 5K run/walk. After the race, participants enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast provided by the La Palma Kiwanis Club. Mayor Marshall Goodman was on hand to start the race! -Kimberly
La Palma Fitness Run for Fun
La Palma Fitness Run for Fun Pancake Breakfast
Tustin Fourth of July Celebration
I had a great time celebrating our independence at the Tustin Fourth of July Celebration. There was plenty of great food, electric energy in the air, and wonderful music courtesy of Maroon Vibes. It’s a time to celebrate the birth of our nation and values of freedom, democracy, and unity that define us. Let’s also remember the brave men and women who fought for our independence and those who continue to protect it today. -Josh
Tustin Fourth of July Celebration
West Covina Fourth of July Celebration
I celebrated America’s 248th birthday with the community of West Covina! The event was hosted at the West Covina Sportsplex and featured live music, delicious desserts, and lots of local businesses showcasing their products!
West Covina Fourth of July Celebration
Senate District 29’s Citizen of the Month:
I’m very pleased to be able to recognize prolific Southern California journalist Martin Plascencia as the 29th Senate District’s “Citizen of the Month” for June 2024.
For decades, Martin has appeared on local television screens in Spanish-speaking households as a reporter for Telemundo and the leader of its Orange County News Bureau. His longstanding presence in the media made him a widely recognized and trusted figure across the region.
In 2020, his on-air career abruptly ended as the impacts of the pandemic led to Telemundo shuttering its Orange County operation. The County of Orange then approached Martin to transition into public service, needing his assistance to reach out to the region’s Hispanic community with critical resources amid heightened distrust in government.
Starting as an aide to Orange County’s Chief Executive Officer, Martin played an integral role in the countywide effort to vaccinate vaccine-hesitant communities. His efforts safeguarded the health and safety of countless families across our area. During his three years with the CEO’s office, he interfaced with his former Spanish media colleagues and supported all county departments. Martin then began a new role with the Office of the Orange County Clerk-Recorder.
As the primary point of outreach for managing relations with the Spanish-speaking community for the Clerk-Recorder’s office, Martin has promoted awareness of crucial county resources to Spanish-speaking residents. He notably organized a successful Apostille certification pop-up shop, which authenticates official documents such as diplomas and birth and marriage certificates, providing essential services for the Spanish-speaking community who work, study, or own property outside of the United States. Martin’s public service has already aided thousands across the region, and he proudly states that his efforts have only begun.
Please join me in thanking Martin Plascencia for his lifetime of service to the public good and his many positive contributions to Senate District 29 and beyond.
Senate District 29’s Restaurant of the Month:
I’m proud to recognize Classics Flowers & Confections as Senate District 29’s Restaurant of the Month. Classics is a boutique flower shop in Central Cypress with a mini-café that offers coffee and pastries in a welcoming, friendly atmosphere.
Since its founding in 2012, Classics has earned a well-deserved reputation for unique flower arrangements, making it a standout destination in our area. Co-owners Ron Hoshi and Rosa Solis share a passion for creating exceptional floral arrangements for all occasions, including weddings, baby showers, and graduations. With every customer comes another special occasion that deserves a beautiful bouquet and a tasty jolt of caffeine.
Their high standards of quality, value, and service to the residents of Cypress are just some of the many reasons why Classics deserves this recognition.
I’m proud to honor Classics Flowers & Confections as Senate District 29’s Restaurant of the Month and send best wishes on their continued success in the City of Cypress.
Staff Highlights
From Scott Do, SD 29 District Director
In June, I had the pleasure of meeting with the Office of Community Partnerships & Strategic Communications, housed in the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. The offices coordinate the state’s most important public awareness and community engagement initiatives, like Heat Ready CA and Save Our Water – all crucial for the health and well-being of our state and its citizens.
You sometimes forget how big California is and how many moving pieces are vital to its existence. I’m grateful to be a tiny part of it all.
From Nathan Bass, serving the cities of Fullerton, Placentia, and Rowland Heights:
On July 19, 1865, news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached the last remaining enslaved people in Galveston, Texas. Nearly 140 years later, the California Legislature adopted Juneteenth National Freedom Day as an official state holiday on the third Saturday of each June.
As part of the annual Juneteenth celebration, the California State University system held a symposium in Sacramento to celebrate and encourage Black student success. I traveled to the Capitol for the symposium and attended as part of a delegation representing the Cal State Fullerton community.
At the two-day event, I attended workshops and heard from Black educational leaders about Black student achievement across the CSU. I learned that even against enduring systemic barriers and challenges such as the pandemic, Black student participation and success in public higher education in California has consistently trended upward. The CSU is actively seeking to encourage that trend, recently announcing a three-year, $10 million program to bolster Black student success, which has already awarded a $250,000 targeted grant to Cal State Fullerton.
From Christiane Salamat, serving the cities of Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, and Industry:
On June 11, I attended the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) Spring Legislative Briefing. The staff shared the COG’s legislative priorities and provided updates on the wonderful work they are doing to improve the lives of the nearly two million residents living in the SGV.
Among these initiatives are the creation of both temporary and permanent housing solutions for the region’s unhoused population, workforce development programs through community partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits, and various grade separation projects to replace at-grade railroad crossings, enhancing roadway safety and efficiency.
From Sheen Sidhu, serving the cities of Buena Park, Yorba Linda, and Brea:
Summer has officially begun, and it’s off to a great start! As the warmer temperatures draw crowds to our beautiful beaches and relaxing pools, it’s crucial to ensure that your family is up to date with water safety practices.
This month, the Boys & Girls Club of Fullerton completed its annual water safety camp in partnership with the ZAC Foundation. Over 100 kids participated in this intensive four-day camp, where they learned basic water safety skills to stay safe in and around water.
Sadly, drowning is a leading cause of unintentional death for kids aged 1-14, and it only takes a moment for a child to drown, often silently. According to the CDC, there are around 3,960 fatal unintentional drownings each year in the United States. That’s an average of 11 drowning deaths a day. Additionally, for every child that dies from drowning, another eight receive emergency care for nonfatal drowning injuries.
If you have a pool or plan on using one this summer, always designate a responsible adult to be a water watcher and rotate the duty every 15-20 minutes to ensure everyone stays alert. Everyone should wear a lifejacket when on or near the water. Don't have one? California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways has a Lifejacket Loaner Program, and you can pick them up here in Orange County.
By staying informed and vigilant, we can help prevent these tragic accidents and ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for everyone!
From Christopher Kent, serving the cities of West Covina, La Habra, and Cypress:
This past month, I was honored to attend the Buena Park chapter of Moms Demand Action “Wear Orange” Rally, held outside Buena Park City Hall. The program featured powerful speeches from families and victims of gun violence, highlighting the dramatic impacts this issue has on our communities.
The color orange was chosen in honor of Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old girl tragically killed by gun violence in Chicago on January 21, 2013, while at the playground with her friends. Just a week before her passing, Hadiya had marched in former President Obama’s second inauguration parade. In her memory, Hadiya’s friends and family commemorated her life by wearing orange, symbolizing safety and caution. Wear Orange is now observed every June to honor Hadiya, the 43,000 Americans killed by gun violence every year, and the families and friends who are deeply affected by the loss of loved ones affected by these tragic losses.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Office of Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva for organizing this important event and to the Moms Demand Action Buena Park Chapter for their unwavering support in ending gun violence in our communities. Their efforts create a welcoming space for victims and families to share their experiences and advocate for a safer future for all.
From Kimberly Rangel, serving the cities of Anaheim, Stanton, and La Palma:
L to R: Josselyn, Anthony Monroy from Asm. Quirk-Silva’s Office, myself, Nahla, and London
In June, I had the pleasure of attending the third annual Leadership Day at the Dr. Albert Schweitzer Leadership Academy, a California Gold Ribbon school.
Leadership Day is a student-led event designed to help students develop and practice their leadership skills. Students greeted visitors with a stellar musical performance and then took us on a tour of the school, showcasing the numerous resources and extracurricular activities available to them.
Among the highlights were the Vietnamese Club, which explores the Vietnamese culture and language; the Helping Hands Club, where the students volunteer and support the underserved communities in Anaheim; and the Harry Potter Club, an arts and crafts club inspired by the world of Harry Potter! It was delightful to see students engaging in activities outside of their academics, including the arts and community service.
Congratulations to the Dr. Albert Schweitzer Leadership Academy for another successful Leadership Day. A big thank you to the wonderful students who make it possible!
District Resources: California State Library Parks Pass
Did you know that anyone who has a California public library card can check out a Parks Pass for free vehicle day-use entry to over 200 participating California State Parks? If you don’t have a library card, you can visit your local library to get one!
The Parks Pass is valid for the entry of one passenger vehicle with a capacity of nine people or less or one highway-licensed motorcycle and is a great way to explore our multiple state parks.
That gets you access to Chino Hills State Park, one of the premiere open spaces in our area. There’s no other location in the LA Basin where you can drive a short distance and be swept away with scenic vistas, hike, bike, or ride a horse on over 90 miles of trails.
The passes were sent to all 1,184 public libraries in the state, so if one branch already has a waiting list, try one of the others nearby! Get more information at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30806, and then get ready for some outdoor fun!