🌱 Coastal Report Against Poseidon Plant + Goodwill Selects Idea Hall

Welcome back, OC! Let's start today off on an informed note. Here's everything you need to know around Orange County today.

First, today's weather:

Low clouds and fog early today, then sun. High: 74 Low: 55.

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Here are the top stories today in Orange County:

1. The California Coastal Commission staff released a report Monday saying the controversial Poseidon Water project "should not be built." The report cited high water costs, environmental damages from the proposed plant, and the company’s track record for slow-walking environmental projects. Studies have shown the Huntington Beach project would "kill microorganisms" and "significantly damage" more than 400 acres of the ocean environment. The staff recommended that the 12 commissioners, many appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom who favors the idea, vote against approving the project May 12 when they hold a public hearing in Costa Mesa. (OC Register)
2. Californians who paid for coronavirus tests through Sameday Health, that had locations in Orange County, could be eligible for refunds after the company was accused of giving fake results to customers. Prosecutors said the Los Angeles-based company and its CEO, Felix Huettenback, falsely advertised that test results would be provided to customers within 24 hours. The company has to pay more than $20 million in a settlement announced by Los Angeles City this week. The city also alleged that the company "falsified and forged COVID-19 test results" of at least 500 customers. You can read the full story here: (Orange County Patch)
3. A shout out to CEO Rebecca Hall of Costa Mesa communications agency Idea Hall. Goodwill of O.C. selected Idea Hall Communications to handle its public relations and marketing, including the nonprofit's upcoming 100-year anniversary campaign. Goodwill O.C. president and CEO, Nicole Suydam, said that what piqued their interest in Idea Hall was "their emphasis on meaningful, purpose-driven strategy. (Orange County Patch)

Today in Orange County:

• Mealtime Problems — The Priority Center. (All Day)
• Southern California Facilities Expo — Anaheim Convention Center. (All Day)
• Bibliotherapy Bag Pickup Starts! — Huntington Beach Public Library. (All Day)
• Irvine Business Outreach — Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce. (8 a.m.)

From my notebook:

• Orange County: Five latest properties for sale. (Orange County Patch)

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That's it for today. I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow morning with a new update!

— Paula Constance

About me: I am a freelance writer, author, and media producer. I am committed to media projects that empower, engage, and help make the world a better place.