Commentary
Mother Nature is up to her usual April tricks. I’ve seen some funny memes about the crazy weather we experienced this past weekend.
Even with that chilly reminder of winter, there’s a lot to look forward to this week, including the beginning of Passover and Easter Week. It’s a wonderful time for families to come together, over a special meal, an egg hunt, or simply enjoying some quality time. However you celebrate, I hope it’s filled with joy—and perhaps a little sunshine, too.
Now, let’s catch up on a few highlights from around the county.
We’re recognizing two very important weeks of service and dedication.
We wrapped up National Public Health Week, and I want to extend my sincere thanks to the entire Orange County Department of Health. Their commitment to the well-being of our residents is unwavering, and we’re lucky and grateful to have such a dedicated team working for our community every day.
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 13–19) honors the voices behind the scenes, our 911 dispatchers. They are the first of the first responders, providing calm, clear, and critical guidance during emergencies. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Orange County 911 team. You are true heroes, and we truly appreciate your compassionate service.
Despite the weather, I had the privilege of attending the return of the Hudson Valley Honor Flight Mission 35 this past Saturday. What an incredible event! The energy, emotion, and sense of gratitude were inspiring. I remember that when the program first launched in 2012, many World War II veterans took part. Now, we’re seeing more and more Vietnam War veterans participating. They truly deserve this recognition and honor.
It was a proud and moving experience for me last April, when I was able to participate in the Hudson Valley Honor Flight Mission 32 with my dad, as well as Sheriff Paul Arteta and his dad. If you know a veteran who hasn’t experienced an Honor Flight, please encourage them to consider it, and maybe even join them as a guardian. It’s a powerful, unforgettable experience.
