Frankly Speaking

FRANK KIM

a message from CEO Frank Kim

When the calendar flips to June, we all know it signals the beginning of the summer travel season. From graduations to weddings to family reunions, we all have many reasons to travel. But when we do travel, we must ensure that we keep our personal information and homes safe. Turn to Page 26 to learn some cybersecurity tips to keep you, your data and your home safe as you enjoy your vacation. And if your travels include flying, John Wayne Airport has some great travel tips in this month’s Around the County section on Page 14.

Speaking of John Wayne Airport, have you ever wondered how JWA came to be? OC Archivist Chris Jepsen has all the details on how three brothers started what would eventually turn into a world-renowned airport in OC History on Page 22.

If you’re hosting out-of-town guests, consider taking them to OC Parks’ Sunset Cinema or Summer Concert Series. Supervising Park Ranger Vlesydi Loveland gives us a glimpse of what it takes to put on these events while maintaining one of the County’s true gems, Salt Creek Beach, in the June Employee Profile on Page 4.

Earlier this month, OC Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Lisa Bartlett, Fifth District, and I announced that through Labor Day weekend, the County will pilot a new summer dress code where employees can dress more casually on days they have very limited or no contact with external customers. Please get approval from your department heads, especially in regards to external meetings.

I’d also like to take a moment to congratulate the departments that earned the County a total of 14 awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the Association of California Cities-Orange County. Find out more about the programs on Page 15.

And last, but certainly not least, I want to thank you all for contributing again to the HomeAid Essentials diaper drive. The diapers, wipes and other items you donate help Orange County families care for their babies. For a list of drop-off locations, turn to Page 18. Later this month, the Builders for Babies event at Angels Stadium will use diaper boxes to create homes attendees can walk through.

I wish you happy and safe travels this summer, whether you’re staying close to home or visiting a far off location.