Category: Orange County Community

Chapman University Receives $2 Million in Sustainability Research Funding

ORANGE, Calif.—Chapman University received $2.2 million in federal funding on April 14 for its Earth Systems Science Data Solutions Lab, which helps track goals for sustainability set forth by the United Nations. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals target concerns related to human health, clean energy, air pollution, and poverty, among other related initiatives. “[The…


Disneyland to Close Splash Mountain in May Amid Accusations of Racist Theme

Splash Mountain at Disneyland in Anaheim, California will close May 31st, park officials announced earlier this week. The move comes amid accusations in recent years that the ride contains racially insensitive undertones. Its current theme, “Song of The South,” originates from Disney’s 1946 film featuring “Br’er Rabbit” and his adventures in the South. The film,…


Egyptian Philanthropist Brings Global Perspective to Southern California

Following her emigration from Egypt nearly 20 years ago due to religious persecution, one Orange County, California woman has dedicated her career in the States to philanthropy—with a global twist. Mira Victor is known by many within California and Egypt’s sizeable Coptic Orthodox community for her news show “Ask Mira,” which is watched by thousands…


Orange County Lawyer, TikTok Star Wants to Take on Rep. Michelle Steel

Commentary In recent Orange County news, University of California–Irvine Law School alumna Cheyenne Hunt has thrown her hat in the ring to compete for the 45th Congressional District in 2024. Kim Bernice Nguyen, a Garden Grove City Councilwoman, has also announced her candidacy, along with Brea lawyer Aditya Pai. Currently, Rep. Michelle Steel represents the…


Iranian Dance Flash Mob Hits Laguna Beach

Orange County Iranian Americans surprised beachgoers at the main beach in Laguna Beach, California on April 8 with a flash mob, where a group of around 40 women danced along to the beat of popular pre-Islamic Republic music for the Persian New Year. The event is the latest way the community is showing support and…


Cherry Blossom Festival Coming to Huntington Beach This Month

Traditional Japanese treats, live entertainment, arts and crafts, vendors, and more await guests at this year’s Cherry Blossom Festival in Huntington Beach, California, from April 14th through the 16th. The event is set to draw thousands to its location this year on Talbert Avenue, according to the festival’s website. According to organizers, over 70,000 people…


BJ’s Restaurants Gives Old Basketball Court Colorful Refurbishment in Santa Ana

SANTA ANA, Calif.—What is usually a tidy park surrounded by a quiet neighborhood was instead met April 4 with a festive afternoon celebration of the city’s newest addition—a basketball court at Portola Park. “You guys ready to make some noise!?” Santa Ana Parks and Recreation Executive Director Hawk Scott yelled into a loudspeaker as he…


BJ’s Restaurants Give Old Basketball Court Colorful Refurbishment in Santa Ana

SANTA ANA, Calif.—What is usually a tidy park surrounded by a quiet neighborhood was instead met April 4 with a festive afternoon celebration of the city’s newest addition—a basketball court at Portola Park. “You guys ready to make some noise!?” Santa Ana Parks and Recreation Executive Director Hawk Scott yelled into a loudspeaker as he…


Fun Easter Activities in Orange County This Season

Buena Park Spring Extravaganza Bring the family for a scrumptious pancake breakfast followed by loads of activities for children, including a petting zoo, Easter egg hunt, bounce houses, train rides, games, and much more. Henry Boisseranc Park at 7520 Dale St., Buena Park. April 8, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. For more information, visit…


National Boysenberry Day Celebrated at Knott’s Berry Farm Annual Festival

BUENA PARK, Calif.—“Do you want me to get a picture of you kissing this giant Boysenberry?” a man jokingly asked a Knott’s Berry Farm park-goer over the sounds of people joyfully screaming from an overhead rollercoaster. “Do it, this thing is huge!” In celebration of National Boysenberry Day on April 3, the Knott’s Berry Farm…