🌱 Thousands Paid To Rip Up Lawns + 'Massive' Sex Trafficking Bust

Hello everyone. It's me, Paula Constance, your host of the Orange County Daily — here to impart all the most important things happening locally. Let's go!

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• FBI and local authorities arrest 85 in massive child sex trafficking ring
• Looking for something relaxing to do outside? Check out a historic home and gardens
• Why are California home owners being paid thousands to rip out their lawns?

First, today's weather:

A mostly sunny day. High: 85 Low: 68.

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Here are the top stories today in Orange County:

1. A shout out to the FBI and local authorities in SoCal and Orange County for a coordinated raid on a "massive" nationwide child sex trafficking ring. At least 85 suspects were arrested for human trafficking or the sexual exploitation of children, according to the FBI. More than 225 victims around the nation that included 84 minors were rescued by authorities. Thirty-seven of the child victims who were rescued were active missing children cases. FBI Director Christopher Wray said, "Unfortunately, such crimes — against both adults and children — are far more common than most people realize. " (Orange County Patch)
2. Summer is the perfect time to go outside and find a new place to explore. In a recent post, Orange County Parks said, "if you're looking for something fun and relaxing to do, visit the Helena Modjeska Historic House and Gardens" You can tour the century-old home of actress Helena Modjeska, stroll the gardens and relax under the shade of the oak trees. "The property is open for self-guided tours Wednesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with docent tours available by advance reservation." (OC Parks via Instagram)
3. Why are California property owners being paid to rip out their lawns? California officials are asking more than four million people in So Cal, including Beverly Hills and and Culver City, to suspend all outdoor watering for 15 days, from Sept. 6 to Sept. 20, or repairs on a leaky pipe from the Colorado River, according to CNN, "but officials are going a step further." They are offering to will pay residents to rip up their lawns and replace them with drought-resistant landscaping. The rebate could be thousands of dollars. According to the Irvine Standard, the Irvine Ranch Water District is paying eligible residents up to $5 per square foot for removing lawns using potable water." Juan Garcia, a water-efficiency specialist at the district., said, “It’s like getting paid to transform your landscape and upgrade your outdated irrigation system.” (CNN)

Today in Orange County:

• Think Goodness Fundraiser to Support Placentia Businesses. (All Day)
• Special Exhibit— Cold War: Soviet, Spies and Secrets. (10 a.m.)
• Storytime - Tustin Library - Orange County Mobile Library. (10:30 a.m.)
• Storytime & Craft Corner: Rancho Santa Margarita Librar.y (10:30 a.m.)
• Messy Monday - Seal Beach Library - Mary Wilson Branc/Seal Beach Library. (10:30 a.m.)

From my notebook:

• German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County: "Come out and meet Maestro and his friends today at Centinela Feed in Costa Mesa! We will have beautiful dogs for adoption and a huge bake sale to raise funds to care for our dogs!" (German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County via Facebook)
• Orange County Register: "A woman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after she drove her car into the water off a Newport Beach dock Friday night, authorities said." (Orange County Register via Facebook)
• Goodwill of Orange County: "NEXT WEEK! We're partnering with Caltrans Orange County District 12 to help clear your clutter and keep your confidential information safe by having your documents shredded at no cost! Join us for the Paper Shredding Event on Aug. 27." (Goodwill of Orange County via Facebook)
• Orange County Register: "The new Wellness Room, opening in September, will feature napping pods, massage chairs and a relaxation lounge." (Orange County Register via Facebook)
• Orange County Register: "In the wake of a City Hall scandal that could still splash mud on more local leaders, Anaheim’s next mayor will have a big job, but also a delicate one." (Orange County Register via Facebook)

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That's it for today. I'll see you around!

— Paula Constance

About me: Paula is a contributing writer, author, and award-winning media producer. She is committed to media projects that empower, engage, and help make the world a better place. When she's not writing, you can find her hiking or watching the fireflies in the sultry moments before sunset. You can follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Orange County Daily? Contact me at orangecounty@patch.com