06/12/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/12/2026 10:30
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Dear Santaneros,
Congratulations, Class of 2026. You made it! We celebrate not just a diploma, but the resilience, growth, and friendships that came with this journey. I am proud to stand alongside such an inspiring graduate class. You all pushed through challenges with determination and showed us your creativity, curiosity, and endless potential. We never expected less because we always knew what you were capable of achieving. As you walk across this stage today, know that we truly believe you have the power to make this city, this country, and this world a better place.
As summer begins to warm up, it's the perfect time to start planning adventures, exploring new opportunities, and making lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you're enjoying a staycation in Santa Ana, visiting local attractions, attending community events, or participating in educational workshops and summer programs, there are plenty of ways to stay engaged this season.
Summer is also an important time to keep our families active, cool, entertained, and connected to positive opportunities. In this edition, you'll find resources, events, and programs designed to help residents make the most of the season while supporting learning, recreation, and community involvement.
Wishing you a safe, enjoyable, and adventure-filled summer!
In Solidarity,
Councilmember Vazquez
Ward 2
Proud to recognize the Valley High School Boys Soccer Team, whose season was not just about winning games - it was about discipline, teamwork, and representing their school with pride.
From the first match, the team demonstrated resilience, focus, and a commitment to excellence. They faced tough opponents, overcame setbacks, and continued to improve with every game. Their dedication in practice translated into outstanding performances on the field.
What set them apart was not just their talent, but their character. They supported one another, held each other accountable, and played as a unified group. Their work ethic, sportsmanship, and respect for the game reflect the very best of Valley High School.
Their year was highlighted by an incredible CIF playoff run. With determination and composure, they rose to the challenge and achieved something truly remarkable - earning the CIF Championship title for the first time since 2006 and advancing to the State Regional Semifinals. This accomplishment is a testament to their preparation, teamwork, and belief in one another.
I also want to recognize the coaching staff for their leadership, guidance, and commitment to the development of these young athletes, as well as the teachers, families, and supporters who stood behind this team every day.
Your success will be remembered not just for the title you earned, but for how you earned it. You made your school and community proud.
Congratulations to the Valley High School Boys Soccer Team on an outstanding season and CIF Championship victory.
Pío Pico and Lowell Elementary came together to give students an unforgettable Día del Niño celebration. Over two days, students enjoyed carnival games, activities, and time spent celebrating with friends and classmates. Staff and volunteers from both schools worked hard to create a fun and memorable experience for everyone. At Lowell Elementary, students enjoyed engaging carnival games that brought laughter, teamwork, and school spirit to the celebration. At Pío Pico Elementary, farm-fresh berries and exciting sack races were among the highlights, creating joyful memories for students.
The love and joy shared throughout the event reminded us of the important role children play in our lives. They inspire us to live with curiosity, patience, and appreciation for life's simple moments. Thank you to all staff, volunteers, and families who made this celebration possible.
Salvador Quintana Park is officially open in Ward 2 for our community to enjoy! Honoring a legacy of courage - and continuing the fight for our community. Our children now have a safe space to come to after school, on the weekends, when they want to get out of the house. This is a safe space, a space to grow and belong. This is a permanent marker of what it looks like to push and advocate for a safe and healthy community. Thank you to Pico Lowell Neighborhood Association for championing this beautiful basketball court for everyone to enjoy. Come out to Salvador Quintana Park! Find a space to relax and enjoy just in time for summer!
Pío Pico has a new Wellness Center and Wellness Garden! Thank you to Going Native, Design With Purpose, Rady Children Hospital, CHOC, Don Isler and SAUSD for all of your collaboration and support to bring these two beautiful and intentional spaces for students to come find a safe space, be and release.
Pío Pico is the 78th Wellness Center to be added but the first of its kind to have a Wellness Garden! Students have the duality of healing in two spaces both intentionally put together with the importance of students' health first. Students can come to the Wellness Center relax, slow down and connect in a cozy space filled with sensory items and activities. While just outside, students can embrace the fresh air and sun while learning about the importance of gardening. Teaching our students that when we take care of the land, the land will take care of us. Nurturing and tending to the garden that produces clean and healthy food for our bodies to grow and stay strong and healthy.
This is what a healthy community looks like and supports our youth to grow.
Thank you to SAUSD and the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) Resource Team for welcoming us back to this year's CAC Resource Fair. We are grateful for the opportunity to connect with families, share valuable City resources, and support the important work being done throughout our community.
The SAUSD Community Advisory Committee (CAC) Resource Fair focuses on supporting students with disabilities and their families by connecting them with educational programs, community services, advocacy resources, and support networks. The event provides families with valuable information and opportunities to engage with organizations dedicated to helping students succeed both in and out of the classroom.
We appreciate the dedication of the CAC Resource Team and all participating organizations for making this event a success.
Community Advisory Committee (CAC)
Congratulations, Class of 2026. You made it! Today, we celebrate not just a diploma, but the resilience, growth, and friendships that came with this journey. I am proud to stand alongside such an inspiring graduate class. You all pushed through challenges with determination and showed us your creativity, curiosity, and endless potential. We never expected less because we always knew what you were capable of achieving. As you walk across this stage today, know that we truly believe you have the power to make this city, this country, and this world a better place.
Movies in the park are back! Come out and enjoy summer nights at the park under the stars watching a series of movies in June and July!
Register for this year's all-ages Summer Reading Program to earn prizes and a chance to win a grand prize. Register online now through Beanstack at https://santaana.beanstack.com/reader365. Registration at Newhope Library Branch starts July 13, 2026. The last day to register is Saturday, Aug. 8. Contact Santa Ana Public LIbrary at 714-647-5358 for more information.
We are always encouraged to see students taking an active role in helping their peers succeed. After featuring FAFSA resources in past newsletters, we received a recommendation from a local student of an additional beneficial guide designed to simplify the financial aid process. Resources like these can help students and families better understand the steps to accessing college funding and planning for their educational future. Thank you Ms. Lee and Robin for sharing this incredible resource!
FAFSA Made Simple: Your Comprehensive Financial Aid Guide
Pre-college programs provide students with valuable opportunities to explore academic interests, develop new skills, and gain hands-on experience in a college environment. These programs can help students learn about potential career paths, connect with mentors, and prepare for future educational goals. We encourage students and families to explore the resources below and take advantage of these enriching opportunities.
Summer workshops offer students the opportunity to explore new interests, build valuable skills, and engage in hands-on learning outside the classroom. From academic enrichment to career exploration and creative activities, these programs help students stay engaged, gain confidence, and prepare for future success.
Chapman University:
Summer learning workbooks and educational training programs help students maintain academic skills, reinforce key concepts, and stay engaged throughout the summer months. These resources provide opportunities for continued learning, helping students build confidence and prepare for a successful transition into the next school year.
Santa Ana Public Library Programs
The Santa Ana Public Library offers a variety of free educational and enrichment programs for children, teens, and families. From leadership development and STEAM activities to technology assistance, tutoring, and early literacy programs, these resources provide opportunities for learning, creativity, and community engagement throughout the year.
Teen Leadership
Develop leadership skills, participate in community projects, and connect with fellow teens.
STEAM Teens
Explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through hands-on activities and creative projects.
Jerome Tech Desk
Receive one-on-one assistance with computers, mobile devices, ebooks, and technology questions.
Roosevelt Walker Center Tech Desk
Get personalized technology support and digital literacy assistance.
Tiny Tots Storytime
Stories, songs, and early literacy activities designed for young children and their caregivers.
Dungeons & Dragons
Join fellow adventurers for collaborative storytelling, problem-solving, and imaginative gameplay.
Online Tutoring
Free virtual tutoring support for students in grades K-12 to help strengthen academic skills and confidence.
For program dates, times, and registration information, visit the Santa Ana Public Library events calendar.
https://www.santa-ana.org/library-events/?tlpage=9
Make a splash this summer at Summer Splash Day Camp! Open to children ages 6 to 12, this exciting 10-week program is offered on a weekly basis (spots are limited per location) at El Salvador Community Center, Jerome Recreation Center, and Salgado Recreation Center.
Campers will enjoy fun-filled days of outdoor group activities, recreational swimming, swim lessons, games, lunch, and weekly off-site excursions. Summer Splash is all about personal growth, building confidence, and most importantly - making new friends and unforgettable memories. Don't miss out on a summer of fun in the sun!
Summer Splash Day Camp - Youth Camp
Be adventurous and explore this Summer at Summer Teen Camp! Filled with group activities, swim lessons, recreational swim, and weekly off-site excursions. Each week, a new unique theme is featured. Camp includes Wednesday excursions and Thursday swim days along with a variety of recreational, team-building, leadership-building activities.
Weekly themes and excursions June 8 - August 7
Location:
501 N. Lacy St., Santa Ana, CA 92701
Discover the best of Santa Ana with the Travel Santa Ana Events Calendar. From live music and performing arts to cultural festivals, art walks, family activities, and community celebrations, there's always something happening in the heart of Orange County. Explore upcoming events and experience the vibrant culture, creativity, and local pride that make Santa Ana unique.
Santa Ana Events | Fairs, Concerts, Festivals, And Shows
The sun is getting warmer and spring is upon us! Now is the perfect time to take yourself, your friends, or your family out for some fresh air and outdoor fun at California's beautiful state parks. Did you know the Santa Ana Public Library offers cardholders the opportunity to check out a California State Park Pass for free? This pass allows you to explore participating state parks without paying the day-use parking fee. It's a great way to enjoy nature, go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply spend time outdoors while discovering the incredible parks our state has to offer. Stop by your local Santa Ana Public Library to learn more about checking out a pass and start planning your next outdoor adventure!
Adventure Pass
The California State Park Adventure Pass gives all California 4th-grade students and their families free access to 54 participating state parks for an entire year. It's a great opportunity to explore nature, learn about California's history, and enjoy outdoor adventures together.
Golden Bear Pass
The Golden Bear Pass provides eligible low-income California residents with free day-use access to participating California State Parks. This pass helps make outdoor recreation, natural landscapes, and historic sites more accessible for individuals and families across the state.
Distinguished Veteran Pass
The Distinguished Veteran Pass provides honorably discharged California veterans who meet eligibility requirements with free lifetime day-use access to participating California State Parks. This benefit recognizes veterans' service while offering opportunities to enjoy California's natural, cultural, and historic resources.
California State Library Parks Pass - Find more passes here!
California State Parks Pass Access Programs-Flyer (English)
California State Parks Pass Access Programs-Flyer (Spanish)
Tap in with your Neighborhood Association
The Neighborhood Association (NA) is a neighborhood-driven effort that is in partnership with the City of Santa Ana Neighborhood Initiatives and Environmental Services (NIES) program. Each Neighborhood Association has a president (elected) that coordinates agenda-related items for meetings, neighborhood cleanups, essential drives and more. The purpose of the NA is for residents to meet, discuss local issues relevant to their neighborhood, stay informed about updates within the Santa Ana community, and build a stronger partnership amongst your neighbors! NA meetings can consist of discussion of local issues relevant to your neighborhood and Santa Ana, City staff presentations on projects, and residents' concerns.
See if your neighborhood is active and connect with your Neighborhood Association:
Enjoy these free local events and bring your friends and family to the fun! (Bring ID-proof of residency)
June 14, 21, 28: Bowers Museum Free Day for Residents
June 21: Santa Ana Zoo Free Day for Residents
View meeting agenda and minutes.
View meetings live on our Santa Ana YouTube Channel.
Orange County Museum of Art - MAKE Workshop: June 12-21
Exercise your creativity and learn through making with daily art workshops at the museum June 12-21! Inspired by Jon Serl's portraits, participants will use a variety of collage and drawing materials to transform themselves into whimsical imagined characters. Join us to create theatrical masks representing surreal versions of yourself and people you know. We invite participants to return each day, Wednesday through Sunday, to create a new mask! This free, drop-in program is open to all ages and hosted on Level 2. Families must sit together for the duration of the program as the projects may involve components that require adult supervision.
MAKE: One Mask, Many Faces will be closed on Wednesday, June 17, for a private event.
MAKE: One Mask, Many Faces - Orange County Museum of Art | UC Irvine Langson
Art Happy Hour & Pop-Up Talk - June 12
Join us for a pop-up talk about artwork from our current exhibitions. Before the talk, visit the Fueling Station on Level 1 and enjoy a cocktail inspired by the talk's featured work. Admission is free and drinks are available for purchase.
This month's Art Happy Hour & Pop-Up Talk is held the second Friday of the month. Grab your drink at 4:30 PM. Talk begins at 5 PM.
Art Happy Hour & Pop-Up Talk - Orange County Museum of Art | UC Irvine Langson
Summer Movies in the Park: June 12
Join the City of Santa Ana for the first movie night of the Summer Movies in the Park series featuring "Frozen." Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled evening under the stars and enjoy a free family-friendly movie in the park.
What to Bring:
Location:
El Salvador Park
1825 W. Civic Center Drive, Santa Ana, CA 92702
Time:
Activities begin at 6:30 PM
Movie begins at dusk.
Summer Movies in the Park week 2: 'Frozen'
The City of Santa Ana will be participating in Orange County Community Housing Corporation's 2026 Housing Resource Fair! The City will be promoting the My First Home program. Join us to learn more about My First Home and other great homeownership resources. Lenders, real estate agents, homeowner's insurance and other great information will be available for current and future homeowners.
Learn more about the City's My First Home Program by visiting: https://www.santa-ana.org/my-first-home/
Learn more about the FREE Housing Fair and event registration by visiting: https://www.eventbrite.com/OCCHC-housing-fair-2026
This orientation will provide information about Santa Ana WORK Center's programs, educational opportunities, tools, and resources to help your job search. You will also learn about the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and services available at the Center through community resources and partners.
WORK Center Orientations: Scheduled every other Monday from 10 to 11 a.m.
Location:
Santa Ana WORK Center
801 W. Civic Center Drive, Suite 200 Santa Ana, CA 92701
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Rental Housing Board- June 17
The Rental Housing Board is appointed by and advises the Santa Ana City Council. The Board meets on the third Wednesday of every month.
Past and upcoming agendas and minutes are available on the City Clerk's webpage.
Members of the public are invited to attend the Board meetings. The meeting airs live on the City's YouTube channel
Juneteenth Festival- June 20
Join the Orange County Heritage Council for the Juneteenth Festival at Centennial Park. This community celebration honors the history, culture, and enduring legacy of Juneteenth through music, education, family-friendly activities, and cultural experiences. Gather with friends, family, and neighbors as we commemorate unity, and heritage.
Time: 12-6 p.m.
Location: Centennial Park
3000 W. Edinger Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92704
Summer Movies in the Park - June 26
Join the City of Santa Ana for the first movie night of the Summer Movies in the Park series featuring "How to Train Your Dragon." Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled evening under the stars and enjoy a free family-friendly movie in the park.
What to Bring:
Location: Portola Park
1700 E. Santa Clara Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92705
Time:
Activities begin at 6:30 PM
Movie begins at dusk.
Summer Movies in the Park week 3: "How to Train Your Dragon" (2025)
Free Local Events
Free Resident Days at Santa Ana Zoo • Third Sunday of each Month
Bowers Museum free Sundays • Santa Ana residents get in free each Sunday
Discovery Cube Waste Free Days • Santa Ana residents get free admission to the Discovery Cube on the first Tuesday of the month
Important phone numbers:
City Hall main line: (714) 647-5400
Code Enforcement: (714) 667-2780
Graffiti Hotline: (877) 786-7824
Emergency Water Services: (714) 953-8026
Public Works dispatch (street sweeping, trees): (714) 647-3380
Find more phone numbers for all City services
Southern California Edison:Call 1-800-447-6620
Southern California Gas:Call 1-800-207-8567
Trash pick-up: Call (877) 328-2074
Starting a small business?
How to start a business in Santa Ana
The mySantaAna mobile app puts the power of the Santa Ana city government in the palm of your hand! Residents with an iPhone or Android smartphone can download the mySantaAna application for free allowing them to quickly and easily report issues with photos to the City for clean-up. You can report potholes, downed tree branches, graffiti, trash and much more! The app is now available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.
Schedule a bulky item pickup: Call Republic Services at (657) 467-6220
Police Non-Emergency Line: (714) 245-8665
Emergency Water Services: (714) 953-8026