🌱 Local Water Concerns, Plans + Street-Racing Crackdown

Hello, Orange County! I'm in your inbox this morning with everything that's happening in OC today, including these stories and more:

• Three water district officials share concerns and plans for local water supplies.
• Orange police street-racer crackdown breaks up 100-vehicle gathering.
• Mickey's Toontown grand opening delayed.
• Special Valentine's Day menus.

But first, today's weather:

An afternoon shower; cooler. High: 63 Low: 44.

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Here are the top stories today in Orange County:

1. If you were waiting for Mickey's Toontown grand opening, you'll have to wait just a little longer. After a major redesign, Disneyland set a new opening date for Mickey's Toontown. Imagineers planned the grand opening on "Mickey and Minnie Mouse's birthday on March 8," but after strong winter rainstorms and other delays, the opening date was pushed to March 19. (Orange County Patch)
2. Three O.C. Water District representatives shared "strategies and concerns" over the water supply. Santa Margarita imports most of its water, and the city joined San Juan Capistrano to create a local treatment plant, said district general manager Daniel Ferons. Joone Kim-Lopez of the Moulton Niguel Water District said one of the most exciting things it's doing is looking at using recycled water for drinking. Paul Cook of the Irvine Ranch Water District said half of its water is local groundwater, with most sewage recycled for non-potable gardening water. (Orange Coast Magazine)
3. In a crackdown on deadly street racing and takeovers, Orange police "issued 42 citations" Thursday night. The Orange Police Department’s Motor Unit arrived at the intersection of Santiago Canyon and Jamboree to find 100 vehicles gathered to race. Tuesday night, an illegal street racer "sped away from officers." The racer "lost control of his BMW and crashed into downtown plaza in Orange." (New Santa Ana)
4. If you're looking for a romantic dinner or “Galentine’s Day” brunch, you'll find them in Orange County. You can experience Italian charm at Luciana’s Ristorante as the Dana Point eatery celebrates its 40th anniversary. Or reserve a spot with your best pals on Feb. 12 at Cafe Sevilla for a Galentine's Brunch and "a free peach bellini with the purchase of any brunch entree from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m." Discover other O.C. eateries to celebrate Valentine's Day here: (Los Angeles Times)

Today in Orange County:

• Craft Day All Day - Library of the Canyons (9:00 AM)
• Family Storytime - Villa Park Library (10:00 AM)
• VIRTUAL: The Home Gardening Series: Tending Your Soil (10:00 AM)
• Park Cleanup - City of Laguna Niguel Parks and Recreation (10:00 AM)
• Color Happy! Kids Coloring Club: Dana Point Library (10:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• Apparatus Engineer Michael Le Beauf : "As we continue our celebration of Black History Month, we are proud to recognize Fire Apparatus Engineer Michael Le Beauf and share what being a firefighter with the OCFA means to him." (Orange County Fire Authority via Facebook)
• Do you like lichens? "🌳 Do you lichen spending time outdoors? Us too! 💚 And if you like seeing lichens, you're in luck! 🔎 Lichens, such as the ones pictured here at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, are a blue-green organism." (OC Parks via Instagram)
• Join the Philharmonic Society of Orange County: "📣JOB OPPORTUNITY: The Philharmonic Society of Orange County is looking for highly motivated individuals to join our team. If you are dedicated to bringing world-class music experiences to the community, apply today!" (Philharmonic Society of Orange County via Facebook)
• Register early for Camp Elk: "There is still 1 week left to take advantage of our early bird registration discount for Camp E.L.K. and Camp Oakes! Give your child the opportunity to be more independent through engaging in physical, social and educational activities -..." (YMCA OF ORANGE COUNTY via Facebook)
• Hot Liquids Burn Like Fire! "During #BurnAwarenessWeek the American Burn Association and OCFA reminds you Hot Liquids Burn Like Fire! 🔥 Prevent burns by establishing a kid-free zone about 3 feet around heat sources." (Orange County Fire Authority via Facebook)

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Featured events:

• Santa Ana’s Latino Health Access (February 11)
• This Saturday! 1:00 PM - VALENTINE'S SHOP SMALL LOCAL BUSINESSES (February 11)
• Watch the Super Bowl at The District in Tustin on Sunday, February 12th! (February 12)
• Enjoy Valentines Day at The District in Tustin on Tuesday, February 14th! (February 14)
• Field Trip Fest (March 11)
• Add your event

You're caught up for today. I'll see you around!

— Paula Constance

About me: Paula is a contributing writer, author, and media producer. When she's not writing, you can find her hiking or watching 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 Patch newsletter? Contact me at orangecounty@patch.com