Lanterman has been a staple of the Ladera Ranch neighborhood, showing up every day to keep kids safe as they cross the street. But it is not just the job, which he does without compensation, that makes Lanterman so lovable; it is his commitment to spreading joy and encouragement to the students day after day, families say.

“Mr. Larry loves my kids and has such genuine friendliness to everyone he interacts with at his corner of the school,” said Melanie Currie, the parent of a student at Oso Grande. “He is more than just a crossing guard. He encourages, supports and simply brightens everybody’s days when they pass him.”

Now, after decades of service as a volunteer crossing guard, Lanterman had to make the tough decision to uproot himself at the age of 87 from Ladera Ranch to live with family in Palm Springs after the death of his wife, Kathy Lanterman, in September.

An Army veteran, Lanterman is facing his own medical challenges with very limited financial means, said Currie. He had a valve replacement surgery two years ago and is in and out of the hospital to deal with issues from that procedure and explore the option of a pacemaker, she said.

Lanterman’s only means to support himself are his current savings as well as delivering food through Uber Eats when he has the time, said Currie.

So the Oso Grande community is rallying around their crossing guard to make the transition to Palm Springs a bit easier.

On Tuesday, Oct. 17, in the midst of performing his crossing guard duties, Lanterman was greeted by children and parents holding signs with various encouraging messages — “We love Mr. Larry,” “Honk for Larry,” and “Mr. Larry is awesome!” — as well as the news a GoFundMe page had been set up by the Currie family.

“He has been a beacon of light in our community, so we wanted to give him a proper sendoff,” said Currie.

“Ultimately, a fundraiser to cover the costs of his unexpected move and hopefully a little something extra for him to enjoy as he starts a new chapter in his life seemed like a way we could all come together to show our appreciation for him,” she said.

As of Wednesday afternoon, more than $3,300 had been raised.

“I was completely in shock,” said Lanterman with a chuckle. “It was just so unexpected.”

The corner of Sienna Parkway and Covenant Hills Drive was packed Tuesday afternoon with families and students as school was getting out, all cheering on Lanterman as he helped kids cross the street.

“All of these families and students are my favorite people,” said Lanterman. “Being a crossing guard is a fun job and something everyone should try and do. It was great seeing everyone, and it is great seeing them every day I am out here.”

By the end of the month, Lanterman will be joining his son and daughter, two grandchildren and in-laws out in the desert, stepping into a new phase of his life away from the Oso Grande students.

“I hope that by helping him monetarily, we can ease him into retirement with his family in a more stable and relaxing way. He has done so much for our community, this feels like the least we can do,” said Currie.

MacDougall joined the five-member council after the Sept. 20 election. Public safety and business development top MacDougall’s list of priorities for the Civic Council, he said.

“It is time for me to give back to the community and be an advocate for the residents of Ladera Ranch,” said MacDougall.

MacDougall works at Fidelity Investments, specializing in financial services with an emphasis in workplace benefits and compensation programs. He is also a certified financial planner who oversees clients’ retirement plans, investments and taxes, to name a few.

“With my personal and professional background, I believe I can bring a unique perspective to the Ladera Ranch Civic Council,” said MacDougall.

MacDougall has been a resident of the Ladera Ranch community for more than 23 years, first in the Oak Knoll neighborhood and then moving to the Flintridge neighborhood in 2003. He and his wife, Lindsay MacDougall, have raised their four children — sons Nolan, Jack, Ryan and daughter Quinn — in the community.

MacDougall served as a youth flag football coach for 11 years for the Ladera Flag Football League, and he was a member of the Ladera Ranch Little League board for three years, including serving as its treasurer.

Six candidates, including MacDougall, bid for the position, and 636 total votes were recorded during the election, according to Vice Chairman John Gresko.

MacDougall assumes the treasurer role from previous member Kevin Martin, who served in the position for two years.

Additionally, Brandon Willnecker was reelected alongside MacDougall as a councilmember. Willnecker was first elected in 2022 to the council.

The Ladera Ranch community is an unincorporated area of Orange County that does not elect any government officials, said Gresko. The Civic Council serves as the community’s governing body in place of a city council and provides input and resolutions to its local governing official, County Supervisor Katerina Foley.

Each member of the council serves for a two-year term and can then run for re-election.

And when Helstien slept in the store with the doors open in case Kenai found his way back, residents stopped by at night to leave her food and share words of support.

Now Helstien is thanking the community for its support during the 11 days Kenai was missing, which she says were some the hardest in her life. Helstien, her family and members of the local community celebrated Kenai’s return home with a party Tuesday, April 18, at Hala’s Paws.

They celebrated Kenai being found alive and well on a trail by some hikers, nearly two weeks after he slipped out the door of the pet shop.

Lily Bennett, a local resident and regular customer at Hala’s Paws, said it was heartwarming to see the community band together to find the beloved pug. Bennett was among the neighbors who stopped by the store to show Helstien support.

“Everyone was looking for him. Ladera Ranch really came together,” Bennett said. “So many people were just rooting for her. I drove around, all my friends drove around. Everybody was looking for them, praying for them.”

Helstien rescued Kenai and his brother, Colter, when they were just 8 weeks old. Since then, the three have been inseparable. The two pugs would always join her in the pet store and had never run out before.

“This one day, I guess (Kenai) got spooked and took off running,” Helstien said. “And all these people, the whole town really just came to me and were helping spread the word and passing out flyers. I was just so grateful for everybody.”

Helstien even tried leaving her clothes in various trees for Kenai to smell and follow the trail to find his way back to his family.

Bennett said Helstien and her two pugs have become a big part of Ladera Ranch thanks to the family owned pet store.

“And when news broke that he was found alive, people were just crying and sending messages to Hala telling her congratulations,” Bennett said.

Helstien has run Hala’s Paws for nearly 12 years, after working in the pet industry for more than 22 years.

“There’s no other pet store in Ladera Ranch. It’s a pretty small community (and) there’s tons of families and tons of pets,” Helstien said. “It’s been so fun. I host events and I do photography on the side, so for every holiday I set up a little photography studio in my tiny store and I would take portraits of all the dogs.”

Helstien and her family decided to host the “welcome home” celebration to thank the town for its support during the tough time.

“Just the way everyone came together, I just wanted to thank them,” Helstien said. “People are just so happy and everyone was looking for him and it was just it was so sweet and amazing to hear all that outpour of people supporting me. I was very overwhelmed.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office said in a court motion last week that it dismissed the case against Brian Javaade Meshkin, 46, “in the interests of justice.” The Ladera Ranch man, founder of Proove Biosciences Inc., was indicted in 2021 on charges of conspiracy and receiving and making illegal payments.

Charges also were dropped against Ossama Antoine Jawar, a former sales representative for Proove, and four physicians with the National Spine & Pain Center in Virginia. Three other defendants were granted immunity from prosecution and had their cases dismissed.

Kelly Thornton, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in San Diego, which handled the case, declined to comment on the dismissals.

Proove offered several pharmacogenetic tests that purportedly determined a patient’s risk of abusing certain prescription opioids and how patients metabolized certain drugs. The tests were marketed primarily to physicians who specialized in pain management.

Federal agents executed a search warrant in June 2017 at Proove’s headquarters and seized records.

The indictment alleged Meshkin carried out a scheme from early 2013 until June 2017 to pay physicians kickbacks ranging from $100 to $150 for each Proove test ordered for Medicare and Medicaid recipients. Additionally, the indictment claimed some of the Proove defendants leveraged outstanding kickback payments owed to physicians to demand that they order more tests.

The dismissal follows a Dec. 11 motion seeking an evidentiary hearing filed by Meshkin’s attorney, Jason de Bretteville.

The motion alleges a government “taint team” provided at least 85 potentially privileged documents belonging to Proove to prosecutors on the trial team.

A taint team typically is made up of Department of Justice attorneys and FBI agents who are independent of the trial team and screen evidence collected through search warrants, such as emails and other electronic documents, to determine if they are exempt from disclosure.

The purpose of the taint team is to insulate the prosecution from exposure to privileged attorney-client information.

Prosecutors said during a hearing that the allegations about the taint team are “wildly inaccurate,” but did not elaborate on their decision to drop the charges, said de Bretteville, who believes his motion prompted them to quickly back away from the case.

“The court was made aware of what happened and they dismissed the case,” he said in a phone interview. “The prosecution’s investigation started in 2013 and, as a result, nine people were indicted. Then the prosecution walked quietly into the night 30 days before trial.”

Meshkin said he feels vindicated by the government’s dismissal.

“Those words used by the government to dismiss this case — ‘in the interests of justice’ — ring especially true today for the millions affected by this misguided effort to destroy Proove,” he said in a statement. “There has been so much injustice over the past six years that it is wonderful to see truth prevail.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to set the record straight and to move forward from here with my head held high.”

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this article contained an error in the year of the indictment against Brian Javaade Meshkin.

Currently, 11 senators and 24 Assembly members — all Democrats — make up the caucus’ roster. The group bills itself as a “forum for members of the State Senate and Assembly to identify key issues affecting Latinos and develop avenues to empower the Latino community throughout California.”

Sanchez, who describes herself as a Hispanic working mother, said she is disappointed that she and her Republican colleagues are not allowed to join the caucus, but still plans to work across the aisle on issues she says are important to Latino communities.

“The issues that we care about and where we want to see Hispanics grow into, I feel, are the exact same,” Sanchez told the Register. “Making sure we have safe communities, opportunities for jobs, affordable cost of living and that our children are able to receive a quality education.”

“Democrats versus Republicans doesn’t solve California’s issues and make it more affordable for all,” she added.

The 71st District includes Mission Viejo and Ladera Ranch in Orange County and stretches east to include Murrieta and Temecula in Riverside County.

New Assemblymembers Juan Alanis, Josh Hoover and Sanchez join Sen. Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh in Sacramento as the only Latino GOP legislators. Both chambers of the California Legislature have long had Democratic supermajorities.

When reached for comment, Assemblywoman Sabrina Cervantes, chair of the caucus, pointed to a statement provided to the Sacramento Bee: “For 50 years, the California Latino Legislative Caucus has advocated for the nearly 16 million Latinos in California. The CLLC will continue as our founding memberships’ precedent set forth.”

There are two caucuses dedicated to Asian American & Pacific Islander lawmakers in Sacramento: One is limited to Democrats while the other is bipartisan, according to Assemblymember Evan Low, who leads both groups.

That means Tri Ta, another Assembly freshman who is Vietnamese, will be able to join an AAPI caucus.

“I am proud to be the voice of a district that is 40% Asian American and has the largest Vietnamese population outside of Vietnam,” Ta, who represents the 70th District in Orange County, said. “I look forward to having conversations with other legislators who represent the AAPI community to ensure that we are creating policies that make California safer and more affordable.”

In a Thursday letter sent to district staffers, administrators and teachers, school board president Krista Castellanos announced the decision to “release” the superintendent from her contract, saying, “It is important to mention that the action taken was not for cause. We are grateful for her leadership and wish her the best in her future endeavors.”

Castellanos said Vital Brulte will be replaced by Deputy Superintendent Clark Hampton as of Jan. 1. Hampton will assume the role of interim superintendent while the district begins a new search.

Vital Brulte’s contract – where according to Transparent California, she earned $366,398 in 2021 – was originally through June 30, 2026, and includes a severance provision.

Counsel for the district and for the superintendent are working on an agreement to implement that provision, Capistrano Unified spokesman Ryan Burris said. Vital Brulte’s severance should come out to about $550,000, per the contract’s language.

Capistrano Unified is the largest school district in Orange County, home to about 47,000 students and nearly 4,000 employees across 50 schools.

Vital Brulte was hired by Capistrano Unified in 2014 and her tenure has overseen its share of controversy in the south Orange County district, including more recently anti-mask protests and debates over the content in sexual health lessons and library books.

Capistrano Unified Trustee Judy Bullockus, who with trustees Lisa Davis and Gila Jones, supported Vital Brulte and opposed her removal, said she was surprised when the special meeting on Wednesday was called, and even more so when the decision came down.

Bullockus described the board majority’s decision as “a vote of no confidence in the skill set they think she has for going forward with the vision for the district.”

“I felt it was a horrible time to do this, but the majority thought it was best to ‘rip the Band-Aid off’ and move one,” she said.

Castellanos, Michael Parham,  Amy Hanacek and Gary Pritchard supported the move to release Vital Brulte.

Bullockus credited Vital Brulte for her skill in navigating the pandemic and keeping the district afloat during the last few years.

“To get the seventh largest school district in the state back into the classroom was a huge lift,” she said. “The parents, they were thrilled with CUSD again. This is quite a shock to many of them. We’re kind of in a shock wave today.”

Bullockus said she and the other two opposed board members were not completely surprised because “it’s known we have different views on education and development for children.”

Bullockus credited Vital Brulte for being skilled at working with the board and its different viewpoints.

“She would come up with different views to present,” Bullockus said. “I thought she was a fabulous strategic critical thinker and I think she did quite well in managing the board.”

Board members who supported releasing Vital Brulte declined to comment beyond the announcement sent out by Castellanos or could not be reached Thursday.

“As you know, personnel matters are highly delicate, so I will not be providing any additional information about the rationale behind this decision. I look forward to beginning the process to identify a permanent replacement, a process which will include public input and a thorough search to attract the best candidates from around the state,” Parham said in an email.

Some of the district’s future concerns include passing bond initiatives to fund campus improvements – Aliso Viejo voters defeated a $114 million ask on the November ballot – and more organic issues such as an aging-out population and diminishing enrollment. A capacity analysis is being done for the district’s 50 school sites, Bullockus said.

Capistrano Unified has had a stormy history at the helm, reaching back to Superintendent James Fleming’s “enemies list” of discontented parents, which got him indicted in 2007, then exonerated on appeal in 2010.

The district had several superintendents in close succession until Vital Brulte came on in 2014. Her tenure was longer than a lot of superintendents last in a lot of districts, Jones said, adding that Vital Brulte did a lot to help the children of Capistrano Unified.

“She accomplished some amazing things that brought us into the 21st century,” Jones said.

Vital Brulte built up programs to better serve the district’s English learners and higher-need students, she dove into the science of reading and oversaw the expansion of a career education program that truly improves outcomes for all children, Jones said.

Since news broke of the ouster, both Bullockus and Jones said they’ve received dozens of emails and texts from concerned parents.

Now, given the decision that’s been made to find a new superintendent, the board needs to move on to choosing a replacement, Jones said. “I have to believe there are others out there that have the same talents. You get another one, and they’re good in different ways.”

“We are a diverse board – some are very conservative, some are very liberal, some are in between,” she said. “I hope we find a superintendent who will recognize that diversity and the diversity it reflects in our community and be able to work with that.”

ALISO VIEJO

All is Bright Holiday Celebration: Usher in the holiday season with this annual event Dec. 1 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Aliso Viejo Town Center Fountain & Amphitheater.  There will be train rides, ornament making, entertainment and snow will fall. Santa will also help light the 22-foot Christmas tree. Information: cityofalisoviejo.com

Hey Santa: The city will be helping kids reach Santa. Write the big guy a letter and mail or drop it off by Dec. 9 and the city will ensure children receive a response

ANAHEIM

Express fun: Muzeo Express, a holiday model train exhibit, will be open Dec. 3 through Jan. 22 at the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center. The model trains travel through carefully detailed miniature scenes. Get schedules and tickets: muzeo.org

Holiday party: The lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree will cap a day of free holiday fun Dec. 3 at Center Street Promenade in downtown Anaheim during the annual tree lighting and holiday village community event. Starting at noon, there will be pictures with Santa, shopping, a dog contest, entertainment and other activities for families. The tree lighting starts at 6 p.m. DowntownAnaheim.com

Family festival: The Anaheim Hills Festival shopping center is planning a free “holiday spectacular” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 17 with fun events for families such as photos with Santa Claus, train rides and face painting. Information: anaheimhillsfestival.com/events-and-promotions

On stage: The Chance Theater will stage the “Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas” musical Dec. 9-23, with photos and autographs before each performance. For showtimes and box office: ChanceTheater.com

Community brunch: The annual holiday brunch started by K&A Cafe and Catering returns to West Center Street Promenade in downtown Anaheim on Dec. 24. There will be a brunch to feed families and anyone who might need some extra help during the holidays. In addition to food, there will be activities for families, entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus with gifts. The brunch will last from 9 a.m. to noon. There are a variety of ways to help out. Information: Facebook.com/KAdowntowncafe

BREA

Holiday scholars: The Brea Glenbrook Women’s Club will raise money for its high school scholarship fund with its 51st annual craft bazaar Dec. 3. Crafts and gifts will be sold by numerous vendors from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; a $1 donation is requested at the gate, 1821 E. Greenbriar Lane, for the fundraiser.

Tree lighting: The annual tree lighting at the Civic & Cultural Center will occur at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 1. Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus will stop by to greet folks and take photos. Local schoolchildren will entertain. Admission is free, though photos with Santa will cost $5.  Information: ci.brea.ca.us

Christmas nightmare: The city will host a Movie Under the Stars night featuring a free screening of “The Nightmare Before Christmas” at 6 p.m. on Dec. 10 in the plaza of the Civic Center. Chairs and blankets are encouraged.

Live theater: The Curtis Theatre and STAGESthratre are presenting “It’s a Wonderful Life” as a live radio play from Dec. 15 to 18. Tickets are $23-$30. Information and tickets: CurtisTheatre.com

Attention, Santa: Children can drop a letter to Santa – with the expectation of getting a reply – at a special mailbox in the Community Center through Dec. 16. Include a self-addressed, stamped return envelope.

BUENA PARK

Candy Caneland and Craft Faire: This free, family-friendly winter celebration marks its 51st  year. The fair will run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3. Activities include a snow slide, a visit from Santa, entertainment, a petting zoo and more than 100 artisan craft booths at Ehlers Community Center, 8150 Knott Ave. Information: buenapark.com

Sugar Plum: The annual Sugar Plum Festival runs Dec. 1-4 at Buena Park Downtown Mall. The festival offers an array of holiday-themed merchandise and edible delicacies for sale. For hours and more information, visit sugarplumfestivals.com.

Christmas tree: Santa will be on hand for the city’s annual Christmas tree-lighting celebration at 6 p.m. Dec. 2 at City Hall, 6650 Beach Blvd. There will be entertainment, activities for kids and a photo area. Information: buenapark.com

Write to Santa: A special mailbox for letters to Santa is up at the Buena Park Community Center through Dec. 12. Kids can drop their letter there and expect a response. Include your mailing information so he can write back. Or email him at Santa@BuenaPark.com

CORONA DEL MAR

Christmas Walk: The annual Christmas Walk in the Corona Del Mar Business District will feature entertainment by local bands, food, children’s activities, a beer and wine garden, unique vendor gifts and more from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Dec. 4. Information: cdmchamber.com

Lots of lights: The Sherman Library & Gardens hosts its annual Nights of 1,000 Lights festival from 6 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 9-11, 15-22. There are three entry times each night. The gardens will feature a variety of themes and photo opportunities to stroll through along with other holiday activities. Tickets are $35 general admission but must be purchased online and are expected to sell out. Information and tickets: thesherman.org

COSTA MESA

Doghouse: The city’s beloved Snoopy House display will be open from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. nightly Dec. 16-23 next to City Hall. Santa will make a special visit and take photographs with families starting at 6 p.m. each night. There will also be train rides and a lights display. On weekends there will be performances and sledding. Information: costamesaca.gov

Winter Fest OC: Activities include outdoor ice skating, ice tubing down Snowflake Summit, a snow play area, SoCal Dicken’s Village and winter wonderland with various entertainment and activities. The Festival of Lights has a stroll-through display. Tickets start at $19.95 and there are various passes available. Winter Fest is open through Jan. 1 at the OC Fair & Event Center. Information: winterfestoc.com.

‘A Christmas Carol’: South Coast Repertory will present the Charles Dickens’ classic holiday story for the 42nd year.SCR founding member Richard Doyle returns as Ebenezer Scrooge.   Various showtimes through Dec. 24. Tickets range from $35 to $101. Information: scr.org

CYPRESS

Holiday sing: The city will host a festive Holiday Sing and Tree Lighting event for the community at 6 p.m. on Dec. 6 at the Civic Center Green Corner, which is at Orange Avenue and Grindlay Street. There will be school performances, crafts and games, treats, train rides and a visit by Santa Claus. Chair and blankets are encouraged.

DANA POINT

Santa on the go: The city’s trolley will take Santa on a tour of the community on Dec. 3 to distribute pre-packaged treats to children 12 and younger. Children can also bring a letter for Santa that will be collected and if they include a mailing address, Santa will get back to them. Stops are half an hour at: 1:30 p.m., Sunset Park; 2:30 p.m., Dana Woods Park; 3:30 p.m., Sea Canyon Park; 4:30 p.m., La Plaza Park (for the city’s tree lighting event at 5:15 p.m.).

On Dec. 5, the Jolly Trolley will be arriving with Santa to hand out treats at 4:30 p.m. at Pines Park, which will be followed by a tree lighting there at 5:15 p.m.

Tree lighting: The city’s tree lighting will be 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 3. There will be carolers and treats, plus bring an unwrapped toy for the Spark of Love drive.  Santa arrives at 4:30 at La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza (Pacific Coast Highway, north of Golden Lantern).

Santa Paws: The Pet Project Foundation will be hosting its 10th annual Santa Paws event 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Dec. 17 and 18. People are invited to bring their pets to the Clock Courtyard to have their photo taken with Santa for a donation to support the Pet Project Foundation, which supports the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter.

Boat Parade of Lights: The 47th annual Boat Parade of Lights will take place Dec. 9-11 through the harbor. This year’s theme is “Surfin’ USA.” The Boat Parade of Lights starts at 7 p.m. on Dec. 9 and 10 and 6 p.m. on Dec. 11. Information: danapointharbor.com

The harbor area is also decorated with its holiday light display consisting of more than 700,000 lights, including the popular “Merry Kiss Me” arch and giant whale.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Tree lighting: The city will celebrate the holidays with the lighting of its tree at the Fountain Valley Recreation Center on Dec. 3. The event is 4:30 to 8 p.m. and will feature family activities, pictures with Santa, live entertainment and the Hyundai Snow Zone. Information: fountainvalley.org

FULLERTON

Winter Market: The annual festival in Fullerton’s Downtown Plaza, which will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 3, with activities for kids and adults, with an array of artisan and unique vendors and food booths, entertainment and a beer and wine garden. Information: fullertonmuseum.com

“The Nutcracker”: The annual holiday production of “The Nutcracker” by the Nouveau Chamber Ballet, based in Fullerton, will be performed at 2 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Fullerton College Campus Theatre. The performance is especially made for children.  Reserved seating is $15-$25. Information and tickets: nouveauchamberballet.com

Holiday fun: The Muckenthaler Cultural Center’s annual Holiday Festival, which will take place from noon to 4 p.m. on Dec. 18, features family friendly activities, an arts and crafts fair and live performances. Santa will be in attendance. Admission is free. Information:  themuck.org

GARDEN GROVE

Tree lighting: Winter in the Grove on Dec. 3 will feature Snowtopia with nine slides, a holiday boutique, a visit by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus and the lighting of the city’s holiday tree. It runs from 3 to 7 p.m. at Village Green Park. Free admission, snow slide is $5. Information: ggcity.org

Community celebration: The West Grove Jingle Jam will be held 5 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 9 at Eastgate Park. Enjoy performances, activities and a variety of foot trucks. Santa is expected to make an appearance. Information: Facebook.com/wggjinglejam

HUNTINGTON BEACH

Light a Light of Love: A family friendly event lighting up the pier with a children’s parade and lighting the giant snowflakes on the pier. The 3:30-6 p.m. event on Dec. 4 is free at the Huntington Beach Pier Plaza; sponsor a snowflake to benefit the Waymakers Huntington Beach Youth Shelter. Information: waymakersoc.org

“Nutcracker” ballet: Ballet Etudes’ cast of dancers will present the holiday classic at the Huntington Beach High School Theater. Performances are 2 p.m. Dec. 3, 4, 11 and 7 p.m. Dec. 4 and 11. Tickets start at $30. Information: balletetudes.com

Boat parade: The Huntington Harbour Boat Parade will shine bright for its 60th year on Dec. 10 and 11. Boats line up at 4:30 p.m. and the parade starts at 5:15 p.m. Public viewing from beaches only. The grand marshal is Michael Gates. Track the route and get more information at HHBoatParade.org.

Cruise of Lights: The Huntington Harbour Philharmonic Committee presents the Cruise of Lights, a 45-minute narrated harbor boat tour to see the holiday lights. Adults pay $26, children $12. Cruises depart hourly each evening at 5:30, 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 Dec.16-23. Information: cruiseoflights.org

Seasonal sounds: The Huntington Beach Union High School District’s Academy for the Performing Arts will present “Sounds of the Season” at 7 p.m. Dec. 8-10 in the Huntington Beach High School auditorium. Information/box office: hbapa.org/see.

Winter fun: The city is again hosting Surf City Winter Wonderland with an ice skating rink at the Pier Plaza. The rink will be open daily through Jan. 8, check online for hours. Cost is $22 a skater. Information: surfcitywinterwonderland.org

IRVINE

Tree lighting: The Civic Center will celebrate the holidays with a tree lighting celebration from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 3. There will be visits with Santa, a winter-themed train route and entertainment at this free community event. Bring a toy donation. Snow is in the forecast. Information: cityofirvine.org

Dash with Santa: The Run for a Claus returns, featuring a 5K and a 1-mile kids run/walk, on Dec. 10 at the UC Irvine campus. Santa Claus is expected to join in the fun. Registration and information: runforaclaus.com

Park holiday: The Great Park has become a winterscape that will celebrate the season through Jan. 1. Holidayz at the Park features special decorations and family activities from dusk to 9:30 p.m. Stroll the decorated Palm Court and enjoy selfie stations at the Artists Studios. There is a Pajama Party Movie Night on Dec. 10 (registration is required ahead of time). Information and registration: ocgp.org/holidayz

“The Nutcracker:” Enjoy this favorite holiday ballet performed by Orange County’s resident dance company, the Festival Ballet, with some special guest artists, at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. There are various performances Dec. 10-24. Information and tickets: festivalballet.org

Holiday village: Tanaka Farms’ Hikari — A Festival of Lights is open daily from 4:30 to 10 p.m. (gates close at 8 p.m.) through Dec. 30, except holidays.There is a holiday wagon ride and the farm is festively lit. Visit with the farm animals, get a photo with Santa and experience the 30-acre working farm. The farm also has a Christmas tree lot and holiday market. Tickets start at $20. Information and reservations: tanakafarms.com

Shelter Christmas: The Irvine Animal Care Center will host its 16th annual Home for the Holidays pet adoption fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 11. It will feature animals available for adoption. There will be pet-related vendors and more. Tickets are $5 per person 14 and older and are required. Information: irvineanimals.org

LADERA RANCH

Christmas miracle:  There will be holiday crafts, carnival games and more at the Miracle on Mercantile Way event and tree lighting on Dec. 3. Santa will make a visit and end the 2 to 5 p.m. event at the Town Green by lighting a 60-foot tree. Bring an unwrapped toy for the families of the community’s adopted Marine Battalion.  Information: LaderaLife.com

Festival of Lights: The Ladera Ranch Festival of Lights will celebrate the first night of Hanukkah from 4 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 18. There will be music, dancing, crafts and dreidels and the traditional menorah will be lit. Information: LaderaLife.com

LAGUNA BEACH

Hospitality Night:  The festivities begin in the Peppertree Lot (Lot 2), where Santa Claus will arrive to greet holiday revelers before the tree lighting. Begins at 5 p.m. on Dec. 2. Trolley service will run until 10 p.m. Information: lagunabeachcity.net.

Winter festival: The Sawdust Art & Craft Festival will host its Winter Fantasy from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and select Fridays  through Dec. 18. Along with shopping there are holiday performances and more. General admission is $10. Sawdustartfestival.org

LAGUNA HILLS

Tree lighting: The city will host Herald in the Holidays from 6 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 8 at the Community Center. The South Orange County Holiday Brass and the Spirit Bells, a handbell choir from Concordia University, will perform, there will be crafts for kids to do, refreshments and the lighting of the city’s tree. Bring a toy for donation to Team Darkhorse to benefit children of the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines.  Also, bring canned food to donate to South County Outreach. Warm dress is encouraged.

Breakfast with Santa: The Community Center will be hosting breakfast with Santa Claus at 9 a.m. on Dec. 10. Pre-Registration is required; cost is $10.00 for residents and $15.00 for non-residents. Information: lagunahillsca.gov.

Santa at night: Santa Claus will be taking photos at the Laguna Hills Community Center where a giant walkthrough holiday ornament will be created. The 6 to 8 p.m. event on Dec. 14 will also feature carolers, refreshments and activities for children. Bring a toy for donation to Team Darkhorse to benefit children of the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines.  Also, bring canned food to donate to South County Outreach. Warm dress is encouraged.

LAGUNA NIGUEL

Holiday parade: The annual Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade will take place at 10 a.m. Dec. 10 on Crown Valley Parkway between Nueva Vista and Crown Valley Community Park. Information:  lagunaniguelparade.com

Tree time: Laguna Niguel’s annual Christmas tree lighting, will occur 5-8 p.m. Dec.3 at City Hall, 30111 Crown Valley Parkway. There will be entertainment, crafts and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.  Free shuttle services from Crown Valley Park from 4 to 9 p.m. Information: cityoflagunaniguel.org

LA HABRA

Tamales and fun: The popular annual Tamale Festival will fill the day Dec. 3. Tamale vendors will be selling their savory and sweet creations; there will also be other food for sale and performers on three different stages. The event runs 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Euclid Street between La Habra Boulevard and Bridenbecker Avenue. Information: lahabratamalefestival.com.

Hang with Santa: The Children’s Museum at La Habra will host Breakfast with Santa this year where children can take photos with the big guy and do activities. Sessions are 8:30 a.m., 9:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Dec. 10 and Dec. 11. Registration required, check online for prices. Information: lhcm.org

Holiday decorating contest: The city’s Holiday Home Decorating Contest is accepting nominations from Dec. 1 through 12. Judges will view the homes the week of Dec. 12, and the winners will be announced Dec. 19 at a City Council meeting. Winners get a yard sign. Get information on how to email in nominations at lahabraca.gov.

LAKE FOREST

Tree lighting: The city’s second annual tree lighting ceremony at the Civic Center will be held at 4 p.m. on Dec. 3. There will be entertainment, family activities and food vendors. The night will end with the city’s tree lighting at dark (about 6 p.m.).

Wander Heritage Hill: Experience the historic Heritage Hill park decked out for the season. On Dec. 9-11 explore the park and its historic buildings during the Candlelight Walk from 5 to 9 p.m.  Twinkling lights will guide visitors on the pathways on Dec. 16-18, same hours. Both events are free at 25151 Serrano Road. Information: ocparks.com/heritagehill

LA PALMA

Tree lighting: The city’s annual holiday tree-lighting ceremony begins with visits with Santa Claus and crafts for kids at 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 7 at the Central Park Pavilion. The tree lighting will be at 5:30 p.m. Santa will be visiting and there will be crafts and activities for children. Rain would reschedule the event to Dec. 14. Information: cityoflapalma.org/treelighting

MISSION VIEJO

On ice: There will be ice skating in the Civic Center Plaza from Dec. 5 to 12. Rudolph’s Rink will feature 40 minute sessions starting each hour from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 2 to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Skate rentals are $12. Or enjoy a warm treat at the Christmas Cafe while you watch. Information: mvactivities.com

Light a candle: The Chabad of Mission Viejo will celebrate the Festival of Lights with the community from 3 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 18 at the Village Green, 24932 Veterans Way. Along with lighting the menorah, the event will feature music and entertainment, family activities and games. Latkes and sufganiyot, or jelly donuts, will be served.

Visit Santa: The Big Guy will be hanging out in Santa’s Workshop with Mrs. Claus and some elves for taking photos from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays Dec. 10-18  in the Mission Viejo Civic Center. Information: mvactivities.com

Show tradition: The “Feast of Lights” returns to Saddleback College’s McKinney Theatre with performances by the college’s Chamber singers and the Community Chorale and Symphony Orchestra. There will be an audience sing-along and student artists will have a boutique before the show. Shows are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 and 3, and 2 and 5 p.m. Dec. 4; general admission is $30. Information: saddleback.edu/fa/All-Arts-Events

Holiday play: Enjoy the production of “A Charlie Brown Christmas”  Dec. 2-11 at Saddleback College’s Studio Theatre. General admission is $12 at saddleback.edu/fa/All-Arts-Events

Holiday concert: The Festival Singers of Orange County will perform “Holiday Harmonies” at 3 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Presbyterian Church of the Master, 26051 Marguerite Parkway. The performance will celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah and the winter solstice. Tickets are $20. Information: festivalsingers.net

Drive-Through Nativity at Mount of Olives Church: Drive through or walk to experience a live retelling of the Christmas story. Enjoy live actors, animals, music and narration via your car radio. Attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to donate at the very end of the living Nativity to support families and singles in need. The free event is open 6-10 p.m. Dec. 2 and 3 at Mount of Olives Church. Information: moochurch.org/christmas/drive-thru-nativity

NEWPORT BEACH

Vintage Christmas: Crystal Cove Conservancy will host its annual holiday bazaar from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 3; it will feature shopping from local artisans and the chance to meet Santa Claus (from noon to 4:30) among other activities. Information: crystalcove.org

Menorah lighting: The Chabad Center for Jewish Life-Newport Beach and Fashion Island will host a public menorah lighting ceremony Dec. 18. The event will start at 3 p.m. and will feature performances, festive traditions and treats. It will be in the Atrium Garden Court. Information: fashionisland.com

Island lighting: The Balboa Island Christmas tree will be having a lighting ceremony  Dec. 4 at the First Station at Marine and Park avenues. But first the island will have its holiday golf cart parade at 2 p.m. There will be a holiday program and activities for kids.

Lighting of the Bay: Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort will celebrate the season by lighting up its bay nightly with floating holiday decorations. It offers a variety of activities, look online for prices and times.

Boat Parade of Lights: Hundreds of decorated boats will sail around Bay Island and Newport Harbor during the 114th annual event. The parade runs nightly Dec. 14-18, starting about 6:30 p.m. It starts and ends at Tip of Lido Isle. There will be fireworks at 6:15 on Dec. 14 to open the parade and at 9 p.m. on Dec. 18 to mark its end.  Information and map: christmasboatparade.com

ORANGE

Christmas village: Irvine Park Railroad’s Santa’s Village and Christmas Train are open daily through Dec. 23. Children can visit Santa and experience a ride through the Tunnel of Lights. There are other activities, such as carnival games, blizzard ball and a moon bounce. Costs for activities vary, some are free. Information: irvineparkrailroad.com

Tree lighting: The annual tree-lighting ceremony and candlelight choir procession will be Dec. 4, starting at 3:30 p.m. with activities for families in the Old Towne Orange Plaza. At 5:15, the city will light the tree, and the choir candlelight procession will begin. The event is free and open to the public. Information: cityoforange.com

Hanukkah celebration: Temple Beth Sholom will host a Hanukkah menorah lighting at 6 p.m. nightly in the traffic circle of the Orange Plaza from Dec. 18 to 25. Each night of Hanukkah a ceremony to light another candle will be held and there will be jelly donut holes for the community. Temple Beth Sholom serves a large population in Orange. Information: 714-628-4600

Holiday music: Chapman University’s Musco Center is hosting the always popular Holiday Wassail Concert for the 58th year. It will take place at 8 p.m. Dec. 9 and 10 and feature Chapman’s orchestra and choirs performing holiday music. General admission is $25.

On Dec. 21-22, Nochebuena: Christmas Eve in Mexico will feature Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles and Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar performing at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $25.

Information and tickets at tickets.chapman.edu.

Library visits: Santa Claus will stop by Orange library branches to visit with children. Parents are encouraged to bring cameras to get photos of their children with Santa during the free event and kids can write Santa a letter. He will visit the Orange Public Library & History Center from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 6; the El Modena Branch from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 12; and the Taft Branch from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 14. Information: orangepubliclibrary.org

Holiday music: St. John’s Lutheran Church of Orange’s “The Sounds of Christmas” concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9, and 2 and 5 p.m. Dec. 10. It will feature The Jubilate Choir, Cathedral Bells and the Festival Orchestra. There is no admission, but a freewill offering will be accepted. Child care is available. St. John’s is at 185 S. Center St. Information: stjohnsorange.org

Zoo celebration: Even the animals at the zoo celebrate the holidays. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 10, guests are invited to meet Santa Claus, do holiday activities and watch the zoo animals get delicious holiday treats. Admission is $2 per person; parking is $5 per vehicle. Information: ocparks.com/zoo

PLACENTIA

Tamale Festival: The city will present the always popular Tamale Festival from 4 to 10 p.m. Dec. 8 on the 100-200 block of Santa Fe Street  and the south side of Bradford Avenue in Old Town Placentia. A variety of tamales may be purchased from downtown restaurants and there will be live entertainment, a visit by Santa Claus and a craft beer garden.

Tree lighting: The Placentia Community Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 1 at the Civic Center Plaza, 401 E. Chapman Ave. Get into the spirit with holiday performances and a special visit from Santa Claus. Information: placentia.org

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

Dine with Santa: The RSM Cares Bell Tower Foundation hosts its annual Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 3 at the community center. There are two sessions, 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., tickets are $6 for kids and $16 for adults and $25 for a prepaid photo package.. Enjoy breakfast, storytime and crafts. Information and tickets: rsmcares.org

SAN CLEMENTE

Santa’s Village by the Sea: Ring in the season in downtown San Clemente on Dec. 3, beginning at 4 p.m. The evening brings together the Holly Jolly Hoopla and the Glitz on Del Mar events. From 4 to 8 p.m. there will be games, entertainment, snow to play in and activities (there is a small cost for some) and at 5 p.m. the Community Center tree lighting. Information: san-clemente.org

Photo op: Santa Claus will be hanging out on the San Clemente Pier from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 10-11 and 17. Take photos with him in front of the tree and there will also be holiday music.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

San Juan Tree Lighting: The city’s tree lighting celebration at Historic Town Center Park will feature festivities and entertainment starting at 4 p.m. with the tree being lit at 5:45 p.m. on Dec. 3. Families can enjoy holiday activities after the ceremony  in the Los Rios Historic District including photos with Santa Claus, a train ride and more. Free shuttles will run on a loop  from Junipero Serra Road at  JSerra Catholic High to a trolley stop at Stonehill Drive and Del Obispo Street from 3 to 10 p.m. Information: sanjuancapistrano.org

Capistrano Lights: The Mission San Juan Capistrano’s tree lighting and music program returns on select nights from Dec. 3 to 30. The evening spectacular begins at 4 p.m. but tickets are valid for all day admission. There will be a large-scale nativity, Dickens-era carolers and the lighting of the tree, among other features. General admission is $20. Information and tickets: missionsjc.com

SANTA ANA

Winter wonderland: The city will be hosting its second annual Winter Village from Dec. 8 through Jan. 8 at the Civic Center’s Plaza of Flags. Skate in the outdoor rink, enjoy family activities, shop holiday vendors, enjoy entertainment and so much more. There will also be food trucks for dining. Santa Claus will visit on select days. There will be a grand opening celebration from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Dec. 10 with the tree lighting at 5 p.m. Information: santa-ana.org/winter-village

SEAL BEACH

Festive parade: The city will host its annual holiday parade at 7 p.m. on Dec. 2 down Main Street. This year’s theme is “Merry Christmas Under the Sea.”

Dine with Santa: The city will host a free Breakfast with Santa from 9 to 11 a.m. on Dec. 10 at the Marina Community Center. The pancakes are being served by the Seal Beach Lions Club and there will be crafts and entertainment. Bring an unwrapped toy for donation.

STANTON

Holiday tree: The city is hosting a holiday celebration from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 1. Before the lighting of the city’s tree, there will be musical entertainment and arts and crafts. Santa is expected to visit. Activities are at Stanton City Hall. Information: ci.stanton.ca.us

TUSTIN

Tree lighting: The city’s tree lighting ceremony and activities will be held at 6 p.m. Dec. 9 in the Tustin Library Courtyard. Also, the Tustin Host Lions Club will hold its annual holiday boutique. Information: tustinca.org

District holiday: The District at Tustin Legacy hosts Wonderfest of Lights from Dec. 2 to Jan. 1.

There will be a dancing lights experience hourly form 6 to 9 p.m. From noon to 2 p.m. on Dec. 3 and 10 there will be family activities, entertainment and photos with Santa. From noon to 2 p.m. on Dec. 17 there will be a similar event that pets are also invited too. Photos and activities have a cost, which benefit local charities. Information and reservations: thedistricttl.com

VILLA PARK

Santa’s tour: Santa Claus is coming to Villa Park for his annual sweep of the city Dec. 3 – and as usual for the city, he won’t be riding a sleigh but a fire engine. Each year for Santa’s tour, the fire engine makes stops all throughout the city so Santa can meet with residents and their children. A tour route and full schedule of stops is available at vpcsfoundation.org.

In the evening, Santa will hangout with families at the Winter Wonderland party in the Villa Park Town Center. The free event from 4 to 8 p.m. will have ice skating, snowballs and more. Information: villapark.org.

Boat parade: The beloved Dry Land Boat Parade will return to Villa Park on Dec. 11 this year with a “The Yachts Are Coming To Town” theme. Each year, residents decorate their trailered boats – and just about anything else with wheels – to join in a citywide display of holiday cheer. A parade route and schedule is available at vpcsfoundation.org.

WESTMINSTER

Tree lighting: The annual holiday tree-lighting ceremony will be 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 5 at the Civic Center with kids’ activities, performances by community groups and a visit by Santa. There will be food for sale. Information: westminster-ca.gov

Dine with Santa: The city is hosting Santa for breakfast, and families are invited at 9 a.m. Dec. 10. Reservations are required and go quickly. There also will be crafts to make. Tickets are $15. Sign up through the recreation department at westminster-ca.gov or 714-895-2860.

Hey Santa: Children can reach Santa Claus via the city and receive a personally answered response. Children should send their letters by Dec. 15 to: Community Services & Recreation Department, Attn: Santa Claus at 8200 Westminster Blvd., Westminster, 92683. Include a return address. Information: westminster-ca.gov

YORBA LINDA

Holiday on Main Street: For the 33rd year, the community will have a chance to visit with Santa Claus and enjoy festive music throughout the night. The event, which is hosted by local merchants, is set for 5-9 p.m. Dec. 3 along Old Town Yorba Linda’s Main Street, just north of Imperial Highway and Yorba Linda Boulevard. Bring an unwrapped toy for donation.

Heroes: The Nixon Foundation will host its annual Hometown Heroes Christmas Tree Dedication at 11 a.m. on Dec. 4, honoring Southern California troops who lost their lives in Iraq, Afghanistan and Vietnam. Information: nixonfoundation.org

Boat parade: East Lake Village homes are decorating for the holidays, and the community is having its annual boat parade – with the boats decorated as well – at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 10-11. Food trucks will be available from 5 to 7 p.m. at the East Lake Clubhouse. The community can watch from the public streets around the lakefront neighborhood. Information: elvca.com

Nixon holiday: The Nixon Presidential Library & Museum will have a candlelight evening from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 20 with the museum aglow for the holidays. There will be entertainment, photos with Santa Claus in the Oval Office, the chance to feed the reindeer and more. General admission is $29 adults, $16 for children. Find tickets and information at nixonfoundation.org.

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  Three-year-old Rylie Perry slides down Snowflake Summit with her dad Ryan during Winter Fest OC at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA on Friday, November 25, 2022. Winter Fest OC runs through January 1, 2023. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A library visitor passes by the giant aquarium at the entrances to the Children’s Library inside the Cerritos Library in Cerritos on Sunday, November 27, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Head coach Bruce Rollinson of Mater Dei Monarchs holding his grandsons hand listens as his players recite the alma mater as St. John Bosco defeated Mater Dei Monarchs 24-22 CIF-SS Division 1 championship game at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on Saturday, November 26, 2022. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Marcus Harris #10 of Mater Dei Monarchs catches a pass in the end zone for a touchdown over Marcelles Williams #1 of St. John Bosco in the first half of a CIF-SS Division 1 championship game at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on Friday, November 25, 2022. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Marcus Harris #10 of Mater Dei Monarchs reacts after catching a pass for first down against St. John Bosco in the first half of a CIF-SS Division 1 championship game at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on Friday, November 25, 2022. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Four-year-old Wendy Xu hugs giant Teddy Bears at Winter Fest OC at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA on Friday, November 25, 2022. Winter Fest OC runs through January 1, 2023. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A runner dressed as a turkey is chased by chefs as they near the finish line during the 45th annual Dana Point Turkey Trot in Dana Point on Thursday, November 24, 2022. Nearly 10,000 runners took part in the annual Thanksgiving Day event. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Members of The Last Man Society pose for a photo as they gather around a sand castle of a Sea King, the mascot of Corona del Mar High School in Newport Beach, where many members of The Last Man Society attended, on Balboa Island on Wednesday, November 23, 2022. In 1976, 17 high school friends made a pact to be friends forever, until the last man was standing. Every year they get together over the Thanksgiving holiday to celebrate their friendship. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Surfers take to the waves north of the pier in Huntington Beach, CA, on Tuesday, November 22, 2022. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Former NHL Black Hawks player, Jeremy Roenick, volunteers to don a bite suit and get attacked by a trained war dog during a demonstration at Coto de Caza on Monday, November 21, 2022. The show was part of a fund-raising golf tournament to raise money for retired war dogs. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Ground crews work to cover the UCLA logo on the field at the Rose Bowl on Monday, November 21, 2022, ahead of the CIF Souther Section Division I championship football game in Pasadena, CA. St. John Bosco will take on Mater Dei this Friday. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A fan reacts during a World Cup watch party at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA on Monday, November 21, 2022. The World Cup match between the United States and Wales ended in a 1-1 draw. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Timothy Olivas and his daughter Xabrina celebrate a goal by Tim Weah for the United States at a watch party at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA on Monday, November 21, 2022. The World Cup match between the U.S.and Wales ended in a 1-1 draw. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Amber and David Keil, of Orange, take a selfie as artificial snow begins to fall during the 32nd Annual Winter Fantasy at the Sawdust Festival in Laguna Beach on Sunday, November 20, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A woman’s dog spots something on the incoming waves during a walk along the surf near the Huntington Beach Pier in Huntington Beach on Sunday, November 20, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A surfer rests his surfboard on his head as he surveys the waves near the Huntington Beach Pier in Huntington Beach on Sunday, November 20, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  David de Semir of Irvine skates around the ice rink with his daughter Melanie, 5, during the opening weekend of the Surf City Wonderland at Pier Plaza in Huntington Beach on Sunday, November 20, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Jacob Crouse kicks up some water as he rides a wave while competing in the annual Surfing Santa & Stand Up Paddle Board Contest at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point on Saturday, November 19, 2022. The two-day event benefits Surfers Healing, which holds surfing camps for children with autism. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Festively dressed surfer Aaron O’Campo of Laguna Beach makes his way down to the beach for the annual Surfing Santa & Stand Up Paddle Board Contest at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point on Saturday, November 19, 2022. The two-day event benefits Surfers Healing, which holds surfing camps for children with autism. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  As Lynann Escatel, left, holds the music, Diane Wenzel, center, and Mel Wygal, all of San Clemente, practice a holiday dance on the beach during the annual Surfing Santa & Stand Up Paddle Board Contest at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point on Saturday, November 19, 2022. The two-day event benefits Surfers Healing, which holds surfing camps for children with autism. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Debra Dawson does laps in the pool at Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center in La Mirada, CA, on Friday, November 18, 2022. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Ice rink staffer, Tristan Belsby escorts a bernedoodle named Sunny off the ice after the dog ran onto the ice to join the skaters at the Skating Under the Stars ice rink at the Irvine Spectrum Center in Irvine on Thursday, November 17, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Children skate on the ice rink in the Giant Wheel court at the Skating Under the Stars at the Irvine Spectrum Center in Irvine on Thursday, November 17, 2022. The ice skating rink is open through January 8. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Workers carry strike signs outside of a unionized Starbucks Coffee on Katella Avenue in Anaheim as they join fellow workers and those at more than 100 other unionized locations nationwide on Thursday, November 17, 2022, in a Red Cup Rebellion, one-day unfair labor practice strike. The store was closed for the day. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  After ballots are extracted, workers at the Orange County Registrar of Voters in Santa Ana go through every vote-by-mail ballot and provisional ballot to make sure that each one is empty and does not contain any ballots, on Thursday, November 17, 2022. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Steve Schell, chief scientist with Heliogen, a renewable energy technology company working to use the energy of sunlight to replace fossil fuels, stands in heliostat field of 600 mirrors that track the sun at the company’s facility in Lancaster, on Wedensday, November 16, 2022. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Investigators work the scene where 25 sheriff recruits who were hit by a driver on Mills Avenue in Whittier, CA on Nov. 16, 2022. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Investigators work the scene where 25 sheriff and police recruits were hit by a driver on Mills Avenue in Whittier, CA on Nov. 16, 2022. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Two people get the view over Orange County while walking in Peter’s Canyon Regional Park in Orange, CA on Wednesday, November 16, 2022. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Rebecca Gallegos and her Golden retriever Grandpa Zeus get hit with a gust of wind while hiking at Peter’s Canyon Regional Park in Orange, CA on Wednesday, November 16, 2022. The pair were inside the park before rangers closed it because of the wind. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Ryan Strome (16) and Trevor Zegras (11) of the Ducks celebrate after Strome scored a goal in the closing seconds of overtime to defeat the Red Wings in a game at the Honda Center in Anaheim on Tuesday, November 15, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Ducks goaltender John Gibson catches the puck in the second period during a game against the Red Wings at the Honda Center in Anaheim on Tuesday, November 15, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  About 200 fast-food workers and union supporters gather at Chipotle’s headquarters in Newport Beach on Tuesday, November 15, 2022 to rally against restaurant chains blocking AB 257, a new law that will boost wages and give workers a stronger voice on the job. They then caravanned to other fast-food headquarters, including Del Taco and El Pollo Loco and McDonalds. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Utility lines drape over Via Canon in Dana Point, CA, on Tuesday, November 15, 2022. Marilyn and Len Gardner founded P.A.L. Coalition, a group of residents who want to see power lines buried in Dana Point. The city hired a consultant and the report will be released during the Nov. 15 Dana Point City Council meeting. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Justin Keever, 29, a teaching assistant and 6th year Visual Studies PhD candidate, pickets with dozens of academic employees at UC Irvine on Monday, November 14, 2022. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Special Olympics Southern California volleyball players, Patrick Truong and Joann Flowers, celebrate as their team the Garden Grove Rebels become Gold Medal winners in Fountain Valley on Sunday, November 13, 2022. They were taking part in the 2022 Fall Games Championship. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Andrea Shaw keeps her eyes focused on the tennis ball during the Special Olympics 2022 Fall Game Championship in Fountain Valley on Sunday, November 13, 2022. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Kasey Carter, right, of Huntington Beach does some peppering with fellow volleyball players on the beach at the AVP volleyball tournament at Huntington State Beach in Huntington Beach on Saturday, November 12, 2022. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Seven-year-old Jesus Alvarez takes part in the La Habra corn-eating contest on Saturday, November 12, 2022, winning second place. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Damien water polo players celebrate their CIF Southern Section Championships win against Portola in Irvine on Saturday, November 12, 2022. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Portola’s Grant Kramer (1) unsuccessfully attempts to block a shot during the CIF Southern Section Championships against Damien High School in Irvine on Saturday, November 12, 2022. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  The annual Disneyland Christmas tree stands in Town Square at the foot of Main Street U.S.A. inside Disneyland in Anaheim, CA, on Friday, November 11, 2022. This is the 25th year the ride has had a holiday overlay. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Bagpiper Richard Cook of Tustin plays Amazing Grace during the 33rd annual Veterans Day observance at El Toro Memorial Park in Lake Forest on Friday, November 11, 2022. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  La Serna’s Coen Kune (1) blocks a shot against Dos Pueblos during their CIF-SS Boys water polo Division II semifinal game in Irvine, CA, on Wednesday, November 9, 2022. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Wylie Aitken, left, embraces his daughter, Ashleigh Aitken, a candidate for Anaheim mayor, after she arrived at a Democratic Party of Orange County election night party in Villa Park on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Ashleigh Aitken, left, candidate for mayor of Anaheim feels the baby bump of her friend Courtney Long after Aitken arrived to a Democratic Party of Orange County election night party in Villa Park on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Rep. Katie Porter greets well-wishers at an election night watch party in Costa Mesa on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Porter is running for re-election in the new 47th Congressional District, which encompasses her home city of Irvine, as well as Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Seal Beach. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-39) addresses supporters during the Orange County GOP election watch party in Newport Beach, CA, on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022 (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  U.S. Representative Michelle Steel (CA-48) during the Orange County GOP election watch party in Newport Beach, CA, on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022 (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Ada Briceño, left, chair of the Democratic Party of Orange County and Ajay Mohan, executive director at DPOC, high-five after seeing positive election returns for a democratic candidate during an election night party in Villa Park on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Luke Fransen casts his ballot at a voting center at Irvine Valley College in Irvine, CA on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. This was Fransen’s first time voting. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A man rides his bike in the rain along Yale Ave. in Irvine, CA on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Storms were expected to move through the area throughout the day. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A man crosses the Main Street overpass over the 22 freeway as a rain storm hits Southern California in Santa Ana on Monday, November 7, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A runner works out at the Bolsa Chica Wetlands in Huntington Beach, CA, on Monday, November 7, 2022. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  California Governor Gavin Newsom greets supporters at a get-out-the-vote event in Anaheim, CA on Monday, November 7, 2022. Newsom, along with U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, were supporting Anaheim mayoral candidate Ashleigh Aitken and congressional candidate Asif Mahmood (CA-40). (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Friends of Fred Swegles splash the water and toss flowers during a memorial and paddle out for Swegles, a longtime south Orange County journalist and San Clemente resident, at the San Clemente Pier in San Clemente on Sunday, November 6, 2022. Swegles, 74, died Sunday, Oct. 23, due to complications from a brain tumor. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Clay Gallagher, 2, the son of Tustin City Council member, Ryan Gallagher, is all smiles as he approaches the finish line during the 31st annual Dinosaur Dash in Tustin on Sunday, November 6, 2022. (Photo by Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Busses fill the OCTA Bus Base as Teamsters picket in outside in Santa Ana, CA, on Thursday, November 3, 2022. Maintenance workers who service Orange County buses said Wednesday they were going to strike, which will halt route throughout the region starting Thursday. The Orange County Transportation Authority and the Teamsters Local 952, which represents the 150 maintenance workers, have been negotiating for a new contract. Their current contract expired Sept. 30. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Lingering clouds along with snow from Wednesday’s storm cover the upper elevations of the San Gabriel Mountains set the backdrop to homes just off Serrano Avenue in Orange on Thursday, November 3, 2022. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Bus riders wait at a bus stop on 17th Street in Tustin in the early morning cold not knowing that the buses will not be operating due to the mechanics, service technicians and other bus maintenance employees with OCTA are on strike, on Thursday morning, November 3, 2022. (Photo by Mark Rightmire, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Matthew Mai-Prasarnsuk (7) of Orange Lutheran and Tanner Stagner (12) of Aliso Niguel battle for the ball in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 boys water polo playoffs at Aliso Niguel High School in Aliso Viejo on Wednesday, November 2, 2022. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Alberto Lara checks for winning scratchers at the lottery station inside ABC Liquor in Garden Grove, CA, on Wednesday, November 2, 2022. The Powerball prize soared to $1.2 billion after no winners were found Monday. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Al Hodges works with his falcon Eric at the Frank R. Bowerman Landfill in Irvine, CA on Wednesday, November 2, 2022. The landfill uses the falcon to chase away gulls that come from the coast during the winter months. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A cyclist rides on Quail Trail in Irvine, CA on Tuesday, November 1, 2022. A cooling trend was moving into Southern California bringing possible gusty winds and downpours. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, Orange County health officer and chief medical officer of the county Health Care Agency in Santa Ana on Tuesday, November 1, 2022 after a Declaration of Health Emergency and a local emergency proclamation were issued on Tuesday, Nov. 1, in response to the quickly spreading RSV, Respiratory Syncytial Virus. “Our best shot at protecting ourselves and our children from respiratory illnesses continues to be the same things we practiced throughout the pandemic, including the use of masks when indoors around others and staying home when you are sick,” said Dr. Chinsio-Kwong (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

We asked our photographers to pick their favorite moments from November 2022, and here are some they selected.

November started with a lottery passing $1.2 billion and ended with turkey and shopping. In between, there were high school sports championships, an election and a bus strike.

The sign at Bay Liquor in Seal Beach didn’t have enough space to show the height to which a jackpot in the multi-state Powerball game has soared as of Wednesday, Nov. 2. The sign, capped at $999 million, fell short of the $1.2 billion jackpot a ticket with all six numbers won at an Altadena market.  it is the fourth-largest lottery jackpot in U.S. history.

Election results around the county were a mixed bag as Orange County turns purple. Democrats celebrated Rep. Katie Porter holding on to her seat in California’s 47th Congressional as Republicans cheered on Michelle Steel for keeping the 48th Congressional District.

Around the county, busses filled OCTA Bus Bases as Teamsters picketed. Maintenance workers who service OC buses went on a 24-hour strike, which halted routes throughout the region. The Orange County Transportation Authority and the Teamsters Local 952, which represents the 150 maintenance workers, have been negotiating for a new contract. Their current contract expired Sept. 30.

On Thanksgiving weekend, Mater Dei’s top-ranked football team entered the CIF Southern Section Division 1 championship seeking to extend its sendoff for outgoing coach Bruce Rollinson. The Monarchs nearly delivered a miraculous rally but fell just short at the Rose Bowl against St. John Bosco.  The Braves stopped a 2-point conversion attempt with 3:08 left in the fourth quarter and held on to stun the Monarchs 24-22, ending Rollinson’s 34-year legendary career before 15,955 at the Rose Bowl.

Check out the photos and follow The Orange County Register on Facebook and Instagram. Here are our staff photographers’ individual pages: Paul Bersebach, Jeff Gritchen, Leonard Ortiz, Mark Rightmire, and Mindy Schauer.

Stay safe and stay healthy!

Both Rahn and Sanchez are Republicans. The 71st district, located in both Orange and Riverside counties and stretching across the Santa Ana mountains, includes Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Ladera Ranch, and Temecula. Rahn narrowly came out ahead of Sanchez in the June primary race for the solidly red district.

Election Results

Matt Rahn

Aside from his work leading the Temecula City Council, Rahn has spent two decades in higher education and university research. His top priorities include addressing California’s fiscal stability and high cost of living while also supporting public safety and reducing violent crime.

When it comes to education, Rahn said California’s “curriculum is shifting toward questioning American values and ideology.” He also said the state’s education system needs more school choice and a greater portion of the budget going directly to classrooms.

Rahn described his political philosophy as a “conservative Republican who will bring balance back to Sacramento.”

Kate Sanchez

A self-described “mama bear” from Trabuco Canyon, Sanchez is the vice president of American Ground Transportation.

For Sanchez, lowering the cost of living and increasing public safety are two priorities for her if she’s elected to the seat. She is also interested in exploring private-public partnerships to boost public transportation and wants to “fundamentally revamp our education system by creating competition and school choice.”

Sanchez described her political philosophy as: “Government of the people, by the people, for the people.”

“I’m honored by the results that have come in so far,” Blakespear said late Tuesday.

“We always knew this would be a close election, so it’s imperative that everyone who braved the weather and made it to the polls has their voice heard. We expect that when all the votes are counted, we will be victorious.”

The SD-38 seat is mostly in solidly blue coastal San Diego County but also includes red-leaning Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita and San Juan Capistrano in Orange County. Sen. Pat Bates, R-Laguna Niguel, represents much of the newly drawn 38th district But she is terming out of the state legislature this year, leaving the SD-38 seat open for a heated race between Blakespear and Gunderson.

Catherine Blakespear

For Blakespear, a Democrat, reducing homelessness and addressing housing affordability are her top two priorities if elected to the legislature.

“These two issues are dramatically reducing the quality of life,” Blakespear said in response to a questionnaire posed by the Register. “A great state like California shouldn’t have people living on the streets and families unable to find a decent home that they can afford.”

When it comes to education, Blakespear said the COVID-19 pandemic showed that schools weren’t prepared to “face such an extreme challenge.” California’s schools need to ensure they have the right number of staff, teachers, and mental health care professionals, she said, and that schools are properly funded. Blakespear also wants to see California residents be prioritized for admission at public colleges and universities.

Matt Gunderson

A Republican from Ladera Ranch, Gunderson started three car dealerships in Mission Viejo before recently selling them, according to his campaign website. He has served as the chairman of the Mission Hospital Foundation Board and previously served on the Saddleback College Foundation Board, among other organizations.

Gunderson describes himself as a “common-sense, pragmatic conservative” who is “results-oriented, transparent, candid, and accessible.” His top two priorities, if elected, are reducing the cost of living and addressing homelessness.

“I’d start to address affordability by taking advantage of our budget surplus and immediately working to pass a targeted tax cut that benefits low to middle-class Californians and job creators,” Gunderson said. “Instead of continuing to throw money at the homeless problem, I would work to achieve specific aims that will actually make a difference in the number of homeless people on our streets. I’d start by cleaning up homeless camps, increasing the availability of mental health and drug services, building new homeless shelters outside of our neighborhoods, and then pass a requirement that the new safe shelters be used.”

Elections officials will continue counting mail-in ballots that were postmarked by Tuesday, Nov. 8, into next week.