This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page 2025 at 2:59 pm PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Three people were arrested this week after allegedly stealing roughly $2,100 worth of merchandise from a retail store in Ladera Ranch the Orange County Sheriff's Department reported CA — Three people were arrested this week after allegedly stealing roughly $2,100 worth of merchandise from a retail store in Ladera Ranch the Orange County Sheriff's Department reported when three individuals were reported to have fled the scene of the burglary in Ladera Ranch the suspect's vehicle was spotted in Lake Forest getting gas leading authorities to attempt a traffic stop before the suspects ditched their vehicle near the Foothill Ranch Library and fled on foot The identities of the three suspects were not released No further information was immediately available Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. Husband-and-wife franchise owners are excited to introduce the community to the restaurant’s fresh Mediterranean cuisine The 2,000-square-foot restaurant is operated by franchise owners Ravi Potlachervu and his wife who will use their extensive business background to make a positive impact in the community The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill offers a menu reinterpreting Mediterranean favorites and serves them in an elevated fast-casual atmosphere Guests can enjoy classic dishes like the Great Greek Gyro as well as lamb complemented by the restaurant’s fresh Greek salads and four signature house-made dips Melitzanosalata (eggplant dip) and Tirokafteri (spicy roasted red pepper) “We look forward to sharing the restaurant’s delicious and satisfying selections with guests in the Ladera Ranch-area,” Potlachervu said build relationships with customers and create memorable dining experiences that leave a lasting impression.” Potlachervu and Ratakonda are natives of India and have broad experience in technology and business operations they were attracted to the franchise model of The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill as well as its fresh ingredients and fast-casual format “We knew the brand was an ideal choice for us to become franchise owners because of a combination of its authentic cuisine strong brand recognition and proven business model,” said Ratakonda filled with potential for growth and success.” The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill specializes in catering large parties events and meetings and is perfect for family gatherings mouth-watering Mediterranean spreads complete with unique flavors Choose from build-your-own Gyros and savory Souvlaki Skewers authentic dips and delectable desserts like Baklava to impress guests at any event serving the restaurant’s signature dips with warm pita “Each dip offers a unique tasting experience from the creamy Hummus to the tangy Tzatziki and the zesty flavor of the roasted red pepper dip,” Potlachervu said “It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging in a satisfying solo meal.” The Ladera Ranch restaurant seats 48 guests in its dining room and offers catering Big Flavor Brands™ specializes in franchises dedicated to creative eating award-winning food brands with a proven track record of success From fast-casual restaurants with authentic third-generation recipes like The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill® to specialty concepts like the grazing innovator and charcuterie board caterer Graze Craze® fresh Italian experience of Cannoli Kitchen Pizza® Big Flavor Brands dominate their niches with quality Big Flavor Brands represents the food division of United Franchise Group™ which is comprised of innovative concepts pushing the boundaries with an unwavering commitment to quality 2024 at 3:35 pm PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A new bowling alley is coming to south Orange County after Lucky Strike announced plans to open a location in Ladera Ranch CA — A new bowling alley is coming to south Orange County The new location will open at the shopping center complex located at 27612 Antonio Pkwy the bowling alley is currently hiring for the location Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. 2024 at 10:53 am PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A popular grocery store is opening a new location in South Orange County after Trader Joe's announced the opening of a Ladera Ranch store CA — A popular grocery store is opening a new location in South Orange County after Trader Joe's announced the opening of a Ladera Ranch store The store will operate out of 27542 Antonio Pkwy in Ladera Ranch when it opens its doors sometime this August For more information on the store's upcoming grand opening date, visit Trader Joe's website Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: The plans reflect a notably ramped-up pace for expansion A Trader Joe's spokesperson said the chain is opening new stores "faster than it has been in the last few years," according to a recent report in the Los Angeles Times. Soon, more Southern Californians can purchase Trader Joe's Mandarin orange chicken, dark chocolate peanut butter cups, and peanut butter-filled pretzel nuggets, among the most favored products in 2024 The eight new Trader Joe's planned for Southern California include locations in Mission Viejo Though no new stores were immediately planned for Northern California a new Trader Joe's opened in San Francisco on May 22 Other nearby stores were planned near Lake Tahoe Will there be more Trader Joe's announced soon A spokesperson told media outlets that "the chain is actively looking at hundreds of neighborhoods across the country as we hope to open more new neighborhood stores each year." There are currently 549 Trader Joe's across the nation Dear Reader,Unfortunately our comment platform isn\'t available at the moment due to issues with our paywall and authentication vendor Almost 15 million Californians have health care coverage through Medi-Cal a program that stands to lose billions of dollars if Republicans follow through on proposed cuts Stay up-to-date with free briefings on topics that matter to all Californians. Subscribe to CalMatters today for nonprofit news in your inbox Perhaps no state has more to lose than California in the federal budget proposal House Republicans passed this week That spending plan sets up significant cuts to Medicaid the health insurance program for low-income people California has taken just about every route and opportunity to expand the Medicaid program 14.9 million Californians are enrolled in it and federal funding cuts would almost certainly roll back services and coverage for some of them Looking for a way to offset the cost of extending President Donald Trump’s 2017 tax cuts, the House advanced a bill Tuesday that directs the Energy and Commerce Committee to find $880 billion in spending cuts over the next 10 years. Those cuts, budget and health policy experts say, would largely have to come from Medicaid, also known as Medi-Cal in California both chambers have to work out their differences and agree on one budget it’s not clear which Medicaid services would be cut or how many people exactly would lose coverage because lawmakers can hit the spending reductions in a number of ways health advocates and providers in California and across the country are now grappling with what the cuts would mean for them and the people they care for they’ve called the proposed cuts a “five-alarm fire” and  Republicans’ vote “the ultimate betrayal” of their constituents Their outcries echo the first Trump administration, when in 2017 House Republicans voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act. The law ultimately survived, but that health care vote helped stir up the “blue wave” that flipped Republican House seats in the 2018 election “These cuts would rip care away from children all to give tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy,” Amanda McAllister-Wallner interim executive director of Health Access California said in a statement following the House vote “This is just the beginning — we will be pushing our California congress members at every turn to put the health of their constituents first.” Medicaid is the backbone of California’s social safety net. It covers half of all children and 40% of all births. It also covers long-term care services for seniors and disabled people Since 2014, the state has expanded the program big time — first to more adults allowed in the Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act Cuts to the scale that Republicans in Congress are proposing Hospitals, doctors and county officials are also speaking out against the proposed cuts because Medicaid is a key payer especially for those located in rural areas or communities with high poverty rates If these facilities can’t keep their doors open House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, has said savings could be accomplished through eliminating Medicaid fraud and waste — although that would only get Republicans so far. Johnson has cited about $50 billion in alleged fraud Medicaid accounts for a significant portion of states’ budgets. The program is jointly funded by the federal government and states, meaning federal cuts would leave major budget gaps that would force reductions in services and enrollment, and also could trigger cuts to other state programs. California’s budget includes $161 billion for Medi-Cal of which more than half is paid for with federal funds Based on proposals that Republicans in Congress are considering, California could lose $10 billion to $20 billion a year the California Budget Policy Center estimates A big question mark is how exactly Congress will meet its savings goal — Republican lawmakers have floated a number of proposals They’ve proposed imposing work requirements The idea behind that is enrollment would drop as people who don’t meet the requirements get kicked off the program But the spending reductions from such a policy would not get Republicans all the way to their target a research professor at the Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy A second proposal would require restructuring the program so that instead of the federal government paying states a fixed percentage of Medicaid costs Under the Affordable Care Act, California opened up its Medi-Cal roll to low-income adults who had previously not been covered. The federal government pays California 90% of the cost for this expansion group — that’s up from the state’s 50% regular match rate Republicans may also choose to eliminate the increased match rate for adults covered under this expansion “One reason that these types of cuts are popular among federal policy makers is because…it really allows the blame to be placed on governors and state legislatures,” Park said “The federal government is cutting federal funding making it harder for states to finance their share of the cost of Medicaid but it’s not actually saying ‘You have to cut eligibility in this way or cut provider rates in this way.’” you have to balance your budget,’’” Park added which is primarily education in California really dramatically cutting Medi-Cal in the state.” President Trump and Republicans have promised to not touch seniors’ Medicare but millions of seniors also rely on Medicaid about 2.2 million seniors and people with disabilities are enrolled in Medi-Cal according to data from the state’s Department of Health Care Services Traditional Medicare does not cover services including dental Seniors typically have to buy into a Medicare Advantage plan to get that covered Low-income seniors in California can access those services with no or at a low-cost through Medi-Cal Nursing home stays and in-home care are also largely covered by Medicaid. Nationally, about 6 in 10 nursing home residents are covered by Medicaid a health polling and research organization “Medicare has huge gaps in coverage and Medicare is really expensive,” said Amber Christ managing director of health advocacy at Justice in Aging that is the primary payer of long-term care in this country.” Because of their high needs, seniors and people with disabilities are the most costly population. In California, they make up about 15% of the people enrolled in Medi-Cal but account for roughly half of all the program’s spending “So if the state wants to go where the money is that’s seniors and people with disabilities To protect the coverage of this population the state would have to consider potentially making larger cuts for other groups of people More than 5 million kids in California are insured through Medi-Cal and the accompanying Children’s Health Insurance Program For about 160,000 children in the foster care system it also pays for an array of social services Getting kids insured has long been a priority for California When the state began expanding Medi-Cal to undocumented people in 2016 Perhaps less known is that Medi-Cal is also a big player in services provided at schools It helps fund services and equipment for students with disabilities such as hearing aids and specialty transportation It reimburses school districts for certain providers including psychologists and social workers some districts also provide physical and mental health care to children and their family through school-based health centers that also draw down on Medi-Cal funding “The rates of depression and anxiety among youth are rising at alarming rates Medi-Cal services are their only option for care,” said Michele Cantwell-Copher the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools on a media call with advocates and parents on Thursday “Ensuring that children have access to the mental health support they need is critical to their well-being and their success in schools.” Medi-Cal is a keystone program for many kids but also for their birthing parent — it pays for about 40% of the state’s births California offers coverage for pregnant people at slightly higher income levels than the regular cut-off It provides coverage during their pregnancy and 12 months postpartum that means making sure that their birthing parent has access to health care,” said Mike Odeh “Those early years really are important for both babies and parents There are a lot of services in that time period that really are critical and any reduction in those services could have very bad effects.” Supported by the California Health Care Foundation (CHCF) which works to ensure that people have access to the care they need 2024 at 1:51 pm PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}An Orange County home was saved after a fire ignited in the home's yard and spread to the garage (Orange County Fire Authority Courtesy Photo)LADERA RANCH CA — An Orange County home was saved after a fire ignited in the home's yard and spread to the garage Firefighters were dispatched to the Ladera Ranch home early Sunday morning in response to a fire that had started outside of the home firefighters found the fire had spread to the garage the home was equipped with an automatic sprinkler system that kept the fire in check," an OCFA statement read "Engine 56 and additional crews ensured everyone was evacuated while they confirmed there was no further spread." Firefighters doused the flames shortly after arriving and no injuries were reported the fire was caused by hot ash on an outdoor barbecue "Ash from a barbecue the day before remained hot enough to ignite combustibles and cause the fire," the statement read Patriot Russ and the weapons he brought to DC on Jan Well this was a bit of national news this week but I think it’s Orange County news too – Ladera Ranch’s finest apparently by a quartet of Utah Congressmen most of whom won’t go on record Except first Russ will have to get permission from his probation officer – he did already complete his six months of home confinement Russ was found guilty of organizing a group of “Patriots that are ready to function as operators of disruption against Tyranny” ahead of the attack, writing, “I personally want to be on the front steps and be one of the first ones to breach the doors!” His sentencing memorandum listed “hatchets and a plate carrier vest with bullet proof plates”  as items he brought to the grand event at the Capitol the La Habra police chief – turned San Clemente yoga instructor – turned Jan 6-er now serving 11 years for four felonies including conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding and entering a restricted area with a deadly or dangerous weapon (Along with a handful of violent “3-percenters” who tagged along.) how did our hero Russ get away with just home confinement and probation and by testifying against his old friend Hostetter who did seem to be the Alpha Dog of the group Alan went off the deep end at his closing arguments claiming the insurrection was just a big “false flag” conspiracy he’d been tricked into by Russ (and also claiming in front of the late Ashli Babbitt’s outraged mom It’s becoming an art form – Deborah reminds us of Lev Parnas’ beautiful wife really DO these unnamed Utah “lawmakers” want Russ to come to the inauguration and to emphasize that they celebrate the violent sedition of January 6 the case could be made that Russ is just an archetypical Trump voter – archetypical of nearly half our fellow Americans “Not a deep thinker.” “Not a leader but a follower.” Inappropriately and unnecessarily “protective.” Armed with a knife in case “Antifa” comes ’round the corner And the burning question for Orange Juice readers is: SHOULD PROBATION ALLOW CHASTENED RUSS TO ATTEND THE SECOND CORONATION OF THE OCHRE ABOMINATION from “Fake News Ladera Ranch“ [ALSO, if you wanna hear a pre-insurrection Russell Taylor speech, go to 1:13:00] Start the ball rolling by posting a comment on this article and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. Take the Narranjo case lightly when you read it But he sure thinks he's both a big tough guy and a rebel I don’t think James Mai has ever been in a mosh pit when Janet Nguyen really pissed off a lot of the Little Saigon community by politicizing Black… The Register article had some good stuff from Mike but I got more from talking to him and his sister… But Danny Hughes said those who spoke of a Culture of Corruption were misinformed or lying About Arras WordPress Theme Discover the benefits of living in Ladera Ranch a family-friendly oasis with top-notch schools Nestled in the heart of Orange County family-friendly community that offers an unparalleled lifestyle this charming locale is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered we'll explore the many benefits of living in Ladera Ranch and reveal why it's the perfect place to call home Ladera Ranch is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts including the sprawling Founders Park and the serene Cox Sports Park Residents can also take advantage of the Ladera Ranch Trail system featuring miles of scenic paths for walking Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club offers a challenging 18-hole course set against a breathtaking backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery The Capistrano Unified School District serves Ladera Ranch providing an exceptional education for students at all levels The area is home to numerous award-winning schools such as Oso Grande Elementary and Ladera Ranch Middle School Parents can also choose from several private institutions including Stoneybrooke Christian School and Montessori of Ladera Ranch offering a wide range of culinary delights to suit every palate where you can savor their famous breakfast burritos and artisan sandwiches The community offers an array of shopping options to suit every need The Mercantile West and Mercantile East shopping centers are home to a variety of local and national retailers the nearby Regal Edwards Kaleidoscope theater provides the latest blockbuster films in a state-of-the-art setting Does your business rank among the best in California Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process Ladera Ranch is known for its tight-knit community and active social calendar Annual events like the Ladera Ranch Spring Celebration and Fourth of July Spectacular draw residents together for a day of fun and festivities The community also offers numerous clubs and organizations for all ages and interests such as the Ladera Ranch Mom's Club and the Ladera Ranch Book Club Attractions Living in Ladera Ranch means enjoying the best of both worlds – a peaceful suburban haven with easy access to some of Southern California's most popular attractions you'll find the pristine beaches of Laguna Beach and Dana Point From its family-friendly atmosphere and top-rated schools to its wealth of recreational activities and delectable dining options Ladera Ranch truly has something for everyone With its prime location in the heart of Orange County this welcoming community offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities If you're considering a move to Southern California Ladera Ranch is the ideal destination to call home We’ll be your trustee Little Tokyo guide with a day’s worth of fun things to do in Little Tokyo If you're looking for something fun to do there are plenty of fun and free things to do in San Francisco Feel the knowledge flood from its elegant red-tile roofs as you wander the town’s beautiful college campus in search of hidden finds Enjoy the perfect California spring weather at these ideal spots for a spring vacation in California Check your inbox soon for the latest from California.com. Welcome Mickeymickey@disney.comManage MyDisney AccountLog OutFBI raids OC homes of 2 men who held rally near Capitol the day before deadly insurrectionThursday 2021The FBI raided the Orange County homes of two men who held a rally near the U.S Capitol on the day before the deadly insurrection last month.LADERA RANCH (KABC) -- The FBI raided the Ladera Ranch homes of two men who held a rally near the U.S Capitol on the day before the deadly insurrection last month The FBI says federal agents executed search warrants last week at the two properties in Orange County which co-sponsored a pro-Donald Trump rally near the Supreme Court on Jan Court documents related to the search warrants are still under seal the Department of Justice announced Wednesday that it has exceeded more than 180 federal criminal cases against rioters and others connected to the siege at the Capitol Earlier this month, federal agents swarmed the Huntington Beach home of a man who was then arrested for his alleged role in the attack on Jan. 6 according to an unsealed complaint filed in U.S District Court for the Central District of California: entering restricted buildings or grounds and unlawful activities on Capitol grounds Thoughtfully planned interiors feature voluminous open concept living spaces; gourmet kitchens with large center islands; first-floor bedrooms for visiting guests; luxurious master suites with dual walk-in closets; comfortably sized secondary bedrooms; versatile upper-level lofts; and inviting California Rooms that make the most of indoor-outdoor living The convenience of smart home automation is an included luxury in every residence providing accessibility and control of home theater systems smart shower technology and more from any computer great shopping and excellent dining options “There is so much excitement surrounding Christopher Homes at Ladera Ranch and we know homebuyers are greatly anticipating the upcoming model debut,” said Jaime Todd Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Christopher Homes “Join us for this long-awaited event and be among the first to tour this intimate A number of sought-after features and options highlight homes an optional outdoor kitchen at the California Room Lifestyles are enhanced by the dynamic Ladera Ranch setting, where residents have access to beautiful community clubhouses with pools amenity-rich parks with sports complexes and water plunges The Shops at Mission Viejo provide upscale retail and dining fun while attractions like the Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club offers challenging play on the 18-hole championship length course Christopher Development Group and Christopher Homes are privately held companies with offices in Newport Beach Christopher Homes is known for residential building excellence They have a 25-year history of building new homes and master-planned communities throughout Southern California President and CEO Christopher Gibbs is directly responsible for building more than 15,000 new homes in communities including the Huntington SeaCliff planned communities in Huntington Beach Westridge in La Habra and Rosedale in the San Gabriel Valley Those interested are encouraged to follow Christopher Homes on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Visit www.christopher-homes.com for more information Prices are effective as of the date of publication The photo is also available at Newscom, www.newscom.com CASmartStop to Build Athletic Complex and Self-Storage Facility in Ladera Ranch CAUpdate 7/1/15 – SmartStop has broken ground on its $35 million Ladera Sports Center project is being constructed on the “last available land approved for development in Ladera Ranch,” company officials said in a press release The self-storage operator acquired the property in 2010 Update 7/1/15 – SmartStop has broken ground on its $35 million Ladera Sports Center project “We are excited to break ground on the Ladera Sports Center a premier sports center for South County sports groups to finally have a place to call home,” Schwartz said “Our main priority was to consider the needs of student-athletes by creating a safe convenient home gym where they can coordinate their study time and workout sessions.” founder and CEO of Team Nikos Basketball Academy will oversee the center and be responsible for managing its day-to-day activities Some previously reported project specifications were revised in the news release The accompanying self-storage facility that will be built as part of the project will comprise 42,000 square feet in approximately 230 units It includes an expansion to the existing SmartStop location adjacent to the property and more than 15,000 square feet of office space reserved for the company’s expanding headquarters “My family has lived in Ladera Ranch for more than 13 years and we strongly believe in this community,” Schwartz said “This new sports facility will create additional jobs and generate more visitors to retail and restaurants with the goal of placing Ladera Ranch on the map.” Last month, real estate investment trust Extra Space Storage Inc. announced it had agreed to acquire SmartStop for $1.4 billion The deal is expected to close before the end of the year Extra Space will claim ownership of 121 SmartStop facilities and assume third-party management of 43 other locations SmartStop will sell one facility in California as well as beneficial interests in two locations in Alabama and five in Toronto The facilities in Alabama and California will be managed by Extra Space which encompasses 100,000 square feet of storage space and more than 900 units four-story Ladera Athletic Complex will feature a 56,800-square-foot gymnasium with eight basketball and volleyball courts Video cameras will be installed on each court with footage viewable online via remote capabilities Other players and club teams such as the National Junior Basketball a youth league with more than 25,000 participants in six states The 41,400-square-foot self-storage structure will include 255 storage units and more than 21,000 square feet of office space to expand SmartStop’s headquarters Solar panels will be installed on the roof but we really believe in the community,” Schwartz told the source “The mixed-use [project] financially makes sense We can build the nicest indoor gymnasium in the [United States] and we need to expand storage space and offices for our growing operations.” The project faced some opposition by the Ladera Ranch Civic Council Council members Robyn Moore Hubbard and Scott Weisgerber voted in favor of the complex while Todd Stearns and Gary Kephart voted against it saying they hadn’t had enough time to review the proposal or collect input from the community all four OCPC members voted in favor of the mixed-use project Planning Commissioner Anthony Nguyen was absent “It will be a great asset to the community,” McCormick told the source “The developer has identified an underserved need in the community.” Construction of the sports complex and storage facility will begin next spring with completion slated for the end of 2015 Strategic Storage Trust operates a portfolio of 126 self-storage facilities in 17 states and Canada the properties comprise approximately 80,000 units and 10.5 million rentable square feet of storage space Orange County Register: $32.6 Million Athletic Complex Gets County OK SmartStop SelfStorage REIT Announces Winners of Door-Wrap Design Contest Celebrating North America Dodge the Danger: Curbing and Reacting to Workplace Violence at Self-Storage Facilities The 2 Prongs of an Effective Self-Storage Website: Search Engine Optimization and User Experience Bringing Added Value: How Self-Storage Managers Can Optimize Their Impact on Facility Performance Check out this brief guide to the best colleges near Ladera Ranch from community colleges to four-year universities we'll explore some of the best colleges near Ladera Ranch Just a stone's throw away from Ladera Ranch Saddleback College in Mission Viejo stands out as a leading community college Known for its comprehensive academic programs ranging from arts to sciences Saddleback provides a solid foundation for students aiming to transfer to four-year universities it's an excellent starting point for those embarking on their higher education journey Approximately a 20-minute drive from Ladera Ranch, UCI is renowned for its academic excellence Ranked consistently among the top universities nationwide it offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs UCI is an ideal choice for students interested in fields such as engineering The campus life is bustling with activities providing a holistic educational experience CSUF is another gem in the vicinity of Ladera Ranch It's a dynamic institution that prides itself on community engagement and public service making it not just a place for academic learning but also for personal growth and development Chapman University is a private institution known for its film school Chapman's small class sizes offer a more personalized education and its strong community ties provide ample internship and networking opportunities The university's blend of traditional architecture and modern facilities adds to the unique learning environment is another excellent community college option for residents of Ladera Ranch Known for its high transfer rates to four-year universities IVC offers a wide range of programs and certificates The college is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment making it an ideal choice for students seeking a more intimate campus experience LCAD in Laguna Beach is a specialized college focusing on art and design It's known for its rigorous programs in illustration LCAD's close-knit community and industry connections provide students with a unique platform to hone their skills and launch successful careers in the creative industries Ladera Ranch's strategic location offers access to a diverse range of colleges and universities catering to students with various academic interests and career aspirations Whether you're looking for a large research university a community college with strong transfer programs or a specialized institution focused on the arts the area surrounding Ladera Ranch has something to offer Each institution brings its unique strengths to the table providing students with the opportunity to pursue excellence in their chosen fields while enjoying the quality of life that Southern California has to offer 2019 at 3:38 pm PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Jaxon Ortiz was 10-years-old when he was fatally struck by a car in Ladera Ranch CA — Tragedy struck a Ladera Ranch neighborhood overnight when an 8-year-old was struck and killed while riding his bike Jaxon Ortiz of Ladera Ranch was riding his BMX bike just before 6:30 p.m when an Acura driving on Orange Blossom Circle failed to see Ortiz enter the street from a walkway "and was struck by the Acura at that time," Reynoso said The driver of the vehicle was going 15 miles per hour Ortiz was taken by ambulance to nearby Mission Hospital but was pronounced deceased by emergency room doctors A GoFundMe account was established Tuesday morning, and has already raised over $50,000 in seven hours. The family has suffered an immeasurable loss "We wanted to set up this account for unexpected funeral expenses and to allow them time off to grieve," they wrote Support this GoFundMe for the family here ©2025 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. Some sit in camping chairs in front of the driveway. Others keep watch from their cars or patrol the nearby parks. The Sis moved to this upscale Ladera Ranch neighborhood a few months ago, with the country deep in the COVID-19 pandemic and hate crimes against Asian Americans on the rise. Almost immediately, teenagers swooped in for nightly visits, repeatedly ringing the doorbell, yelling and pounding on the door. One told Haijun Si to “go back to your country.” Another called Si’s wife a pejorative slur used to describe a Chinese person. Some threw rocks. Sometimes, the interruptions came just as the family sat down for dinner. Other times, Si’s 8-year-old daughter and 5-year-old son were jarred awake at midnight. Si and his wife took turns standing guard outside. They installed a new fence and cameras. They called the police. But the attacks kept coming — until their new neighbors stepped in. As dusk falls on Haijun Si’s home, neighbors gather in front to form a nightly security detail. “I’m so thankful for my neighbors,” he said. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) “I did not understand the extent of the harassment and how often it was occurring, at first,” said Layla Parks, who organized the nightly neighborhood watch. “I was immediately outraged and wanted to help.” Violence and hate incidents directed at Asian Americans have surged across California, including in Orange County, since the beginning of the pandemic, with some blaming Asians because of the coronavirus’ origins in Wuhan, China. A recent spate of violent attacks in Oakland, San Francisco, New York City and elsewhere has attracted national attention and sparked fear among Asian Americans, though it is not clear whether some of the incidents were racially motivated. In February in Koreatown, two men hurled anti-Asian slurs at a 27-year-old Korean American U.S. Air Force veteran, calling him “Chinese virus” and then swinging at him, he told KTLA. “We’re seeing an epidemic of hate right now, and we have to stand together,” state Sen. Dave Min (D-Irvine), who represents the district just west of Ladera Ranch, said last week at an event to show support for the Si family. While officials in Orange County are still compiling information on reports made in 2020, preliminary statistics indicate a tenfold increase in hate incidents against Asian Americans, said Alison Edwards, chief executive of the nonprofit OC Human Relations. Neighbor Layla Parks has been instrumental in forming a neighborhood security crew for Haijun Si and his family. “It makes me physically ill,” said Parks, 30. “This has opened my eyes to the racism that is alive and well in Ladera Ranch.” (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) It’s a troubling uptick that experts have blamed in part on Donald Trump’s rhetoric about the pandemic, including his use of terms such as “China virus” and “kung flu.” Last year, California saw a consistent increase in hate incidents and crimes targeting Asian Americans, said Brian Levin, executive director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at Cal State San Bernardino. Stereotyping and conspiracy theories identifying Asians as responsible for COVID-19 have been embraced by wide swaths of the country, Levin said, with a new Center for Public Integrity/Ipsos poll showing that nearly 1 in 4 Americans have concerns about being physically near Asian people. California As more Californians report anti-Asian hate incidents with stereotyping by political and social influencers acting as an accelerant often leads to increased targeting of racial groups The attacks against the Si family fit another pattern — the homes of minority residents tend to be targeted by neighbors in certain age groups “The most common offenders of these residential crimes are turf-oriented youths with moderate prejudices out for a thrill or older neighbors reacting to a perceived threat or change,” Levin said the family moved to Ladera Ranch from Corona looking to escape the Inland Empire heat and attracted by the planned community’s lush trees where neighbors frequently share meals or spend evenings chatting on the sidewalk as their kids play But, some residents say, there is a dark side to the unincorporated community of about 30,000 residents, which is about two-thirds white, 14% Latino and 13% Asian. After the attacks started, Si installed a $3,000 wrought-iron fence around his front porch and placed floodlights and cameras around the property. He hung a heavy chain across his driveway to keep the teens from riding their bikes up to his door. “My kids are scared. I’m very annoyed,” said Si, 48. “At night, my wife and I could not sleep for more than three or four hours. Please, parents, tell your kids don’t do that again.” The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has been called to the home seven times between October 2020 and February. Deputies have ramped up patrols in the area, and the department has launched an investigation, said Sgt. Dennis Breckner. Still, the doorbell kept ringing, Si said. Nothing helped until his neighbors stepped in, vowing to put an end to the harassment. Twins Amber Day, left, and sister Brooke, 12, decorate a park as neighbors of an Asian American family that has been harassed mark the last day of the Lunar New Year. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) Parks, who takes daily walks around the neighborhood, had introduced herself to Si and his family when she noticed them moving in last year. In early February, Si reached out to Parks for advice. He had already told her about the constant doorbell ringing, and she had offered to help if needed. At first, she figured it was a harmless childhood prank of “ding-dong ditch.” But as the harassment continued, including racial slurs against the family, Parks realized this was something uglier. On a neighborhood Facebook group, Parks posted footage from Si of a recent attack and sought volunteers to guard the family’s home. She wanted coverage from 6 p.m. until at least midnight. “I got involved because I’m raising a young child here. I don’t want to put a ‘for sale’ sign in front of my house and say, ‘I can’t deal with this,’” said Emily Lippincott, 40, who lives nearby in Rancho Mission Viejo. “I kept seeing excuses being made, ‘Oh, it’s just kids being kids.’ No, this is months of terrorizing this poor family.” Neighbors estimate that from 15 to 20 children have participated in the harassment, one as young as 10. Three children have apologized, Si said. But Parks said one family sent a cease-and-desist letter after seeing their child in security footage she posted on Facebook. The letter threatened her with a lawsuit if she didn’t remove her post. As the sun began to set on a recent Thursday, Parks stood outside the Sis’ home, where Loden Pass curves onto Mocha Lane, assembling her troops. She kept close watch on a cluster of teenagers riding bicycles on the trails on a hillside overlooking the home. “This is what we do all night,” Parks said. “We see kids and we go ‘OK, are they good or are they bad?’ Are they coming this way?” Two neighbors bundled up in coats to ward off the evening chill, grabbed flashlights and took their posts on top of the hill near the home. Others stationed themselves around the neighborhood. “I’m so thankful for my neighbors,” Si said. In the two weeks or so since the volunteers have been protecting the home, the harassment has lessened, but the teens haven’t been completely deterred. One evening, a group threw rocks at Si and volunteers who were chatting on the front lawn. Sometimes they yell profanities, neighbors said. The next day, as Chinese families around the world celebrated the Lantern Festival, hundreds of residents gathered on the grassy lawn across the street to show their support. The Qing Wei Lion and Dragon Dance Cultural Troupe performs a lion dance in Ladera Ranch as neighbors showed support for an Asian American family that has been subjected to ongoing harassment. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times) People held red lanterns and watched a traditional lion dance performance. Young children danced and clapped along to the music. Min, the state senator, said the Si family should not have been made to feel unsafe and unwelcome in their own home. “The fact of the matter is — as we see tonight — we outnumber them,” Min told the crowd. Politics Climate & Environment Subscribe for unlimited accessSite Map 2024 at 11:03 am PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A woman was charged Tuesday was attacking two co-workers with a knife in a south Orange County restaurant last month CA — A woman was charged Tuesday was attacking two co-workers with a knife in a south Orange County restaurant last month was charged with two counts of attempted murder with sentencing enhancements for the personal use of a deadly weapon She pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to appear in court next week for a pretrial hearing Jan Orange County sheriff's deputies were dispatched about 11:45 a.m 2 to a restaurant in the 27000 block of Antonio Parkway in Ladera Ranch regarding an apparent dispute among co-workers involving a knife there was a report of one victim with a bloody hand 2016 at 1:39 pm PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}LADERA RANCH CA — The news of the tragic death of a Ladera Ranch Middle School student was shared by the school principal Duarte addressed the death of one of their own and offered advice on how families can cope with their children's understanding of the loss of a classmate Duarte was out during lunchtime with the Ladera Ranch Lions eating with the children and spending time talking with them on campus and was unavailable for comment at the time On-campus grief counseling will be available to all students on Thursday and for as long as needed Tips on helping your child cope with grief and loss were also shared to families and are noted at the bottom of this story Here is the email Duarte sent to families regarding the loss of their student: we heard of the death of one of our students Our of respect for the privacy of the family this is all of the information we will share.Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected.(On Thursday) and for as long as needed we will have counselors available to support all of our students.Our teachers are aware of the situation and will be watching for children who need someone to talk to please know that any child can come to the office for help.I have attached grief-tips that are published by the National Association of School Psychologists Tips on Helping Your Child Deal With Grief and Loss shared by Principal Duarte taken from the National Association of School Psychologists : For more information, read on helping children cope with grief and loss. 2021 at 9:51 am PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Orders up Chick-fil-A Ladera Ranch opens its doors Thursday A brand-new Chick-fil-A is opening its doors in Ladera Ranch Thursday and 100 local heroes will be honored at the grand opening in a big way According to a statement released by Chick-fil-A 100 local heroes making an impact in Ladera Ranch will be honored with free Chick-fil-A for an entire year Chick-fil-A will donate $25,000 to Feeding America The funds will be disbursed to partners within the great Orange County area to help the fight against hunger The new restaurant is located at 27712 Antonio Pkwy in Ladera Ranch has selected Orange County resident Mark Howery as the independent franchised owner/operator of the eatery Howery grew up in Orange County and currently operates Chick-fil-A Laguna Niguel "I've called Orange County home my entire life and I am humbled by the opportunity to continue making a difference in the community that has meant so much to me," Howery said in the statement I look forward to bringing new jobs to Ladera Ranch mentoring my team members and serving our neighbors great-tasting food with Chick-fil-A's signature hospitality." Chick-fil-A Ladera will be open from 6:30 a.m Mickeymickey@disney.comManage MyDisney AccountLog OutHundreds of OC homes could face possible damaging leaks from holes in pipesSaturday 2016Potentially hundreds of homes in Orange County could face damaging leaks form tiny holes in pipes that can get bigger over time even after a home has been inspected.LADERA RANCH (KABC) -- When Enrique Del Rivero turns on the tap he worries that water could also be flowing elsewhere It's always on the back of your mind," said the husband and father of two The Del Rivero's moved to Ladera Ranch in South Orange County in 2006 He said the stress began several years later in 2012 when they returned from a week-long vacation "You could touch the ceiling and your fingers could go through the ceiling," he said about the water damage "It was on the second floor...everything trickled down to the first floor." Del Rivero said he chalked up the first two leaks to bad luck the fourth one and the fifth...there has to be something wrong," he said "I think the blame squarely rests with the developers," said Richard Bridgford whose law firm is representing Del Rivero and potentially hundreds of others in a proposed class action lawsuit "They (the developers) were aware of the type of pipe they were using and the type of water they were importing into the home." The lawsuit alleges the builders Centex Homes by Pulte knew copper piping used in its Ladera Ranch homes in the 92694 area code was "defective for the water conditions." Most South County water districts import their drinking water "The chloramine and the sulfites in the water interact with the pipe and they cause pitting," said Bridgford a pinhole leak," said attorney Michael Artinian as he held up a piece of copper pipe with a leak the size of a pinhole Pulte said its investigation of homes "show no indication of a defect in the copper pipe itself nor the manner in which the pipes are installed Some believe the issue a few homes have experienced are due to chemicals added to the water by the water districts" said PulteGroup spokesperson Jacque Petroulakis in a statement PulteGroup is the parent company of Pulte Homes and Centex an Orange County judge tossed out a class-action lawsuit against local water districts over chemicals that allegedly corrode copper pipes The judge ruled water companies can't be sued because they're following state and federal standards for safe drinking water on behalf of hundreds in Ladera Ranch whose homes were built between May 9 Gleason & Artinian reached a nearly $10 million settlement with other homebuilders The settlement provided up to nearly $15,000 per home to get re-piping with a PEX plumbing system or to treat existing pipes Pulte said it inspected Del Rivero's home last year and "it offered to replace all pipes or reimburse the family for repair costs Del Rivero said his repairs - including a pipe coating to prevent his insurance from being cancelled - adds up to more than $40,000 Pulte said it offered to pay the remainder but Del Rivero's attorneys said he's entitled to full damages and potentially hundreds of others There are also pending cases in Yorba Linda and San Clemente Pulte said it is "fully committed to customer satisfaction and quality" and it has "offered to investigate and/or repair every home that has actually been identified in the complaint." "I just want to be able to go out of my house you're going to have a leak,'" said Del Rivero especially if you live in an affected area Check water pressure and do regular physical inspections to try to catch any problems early on Experts also say to take a close look at all homeowners' insurance policies to make sure pinhole leaks are covered Discover the top 5 beaches near Ladera Ranch Doheny State Beach is less than 15 minutes away from Ladera Ranch this beach is perfect for novice surfers and families with young children music lovers can also enjoy concerts in the park This majestic beach is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and ideal surfing conditions making it a favorite spot for professional surfers the grassy parks atop the bluffs offer a serene spot for picnics with playgrounds and volleyball courts catering to families The walk from the parking lot down to the beach provides breathtaking views of the ocean While it's great for sunbathing and swimming it also boasts sports courts and fire pits With views of the nearby Dana Point Harbor it's a scenic choice for those looking to experience the classic California beach vibe While Laguna Beach has numerous coves and beaches the Main Beach stands out due to its accessibility and array of amenities It's the picture-perfect postcard scene with basketball courts it's just steps away from downtown Laguna Beach Though there's a descent involved to get to the beach often less crowded than others in the area It's known for its sea caves and tide pools making it a favorite for adventurers and those looking to explore marine life Ladera Ranch’s location truly gives its residents and visitors the best of both worlds – the tranquility of a planned community with the laid-back charm of SoCal beaches Each beach has its distinct charm and features you’re sure to find it along this stunning stretch of coastline According to Mission Viejo Patch an eight-year old boy was killed when he was struck by a car in Ladera Ranch Monday evening Second grader Jaxon Ortiz was riding his BMX bike near his Ladera Ranch home around 6:30 pm when he reportedly entered Orange Blossom Circle from a walkway without stopping for traffic even though the driver was only traveling at 15 mph making it impossible to pinpoint just where the crash occurred No other details are available at this time And no explanation why Ortiz’ death hasn’t been reported by the mainstream media A crowdfunding page to pay funeral expenses and benefit his family has already exceeded the $50,000 goal This is at least the 27th bicycling fatality in Southern California this year and the fifth that I’m aware of in Orange County My deepest sympathy and prayers for Jaxon Ortiz and all his family and loved ones He entered what is basically an alley which residents drive down to park in their garages I don’t believe that the driver was only going 15mph and couldn’t stop My car stops on a dime once I apply the brakes if not I would have run over many squirrels and rabbits The family is completely devastated as well as close friends We offer up our prayers for the family and friends of young Jaxon Ortiz Note how the story was framed: Jaxon Ortiz of Ladera Ranch was riding his BMX bike just before 6:30 p.m “when an Acura driving….failed to see Ortiz” WAS THE CAR DRIVING ITSELF This is a way of letting the human in control of the car off the hook I have cursed at many a driver for driving fast down small streets or driving without consideration of pedestrians many times And 15 MPH is way too fast for those little alleys Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive 2020 at 10:22 am PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria was quick to adapt to the trials following the shutdown by offering their regular menu options along with fresh groceries (Selma's Ladera Ranch Photo)LADERA RANCH CA —Ladera Ranch restaurants are welcoming back customers offering takeout As Orange County continues to move through the four-stage plan of California’s reopening restrictions such as keeping tables six feet apart and extended outdoor patio seating just in time for summer Here is how some local Ladera Ranch restaurants have changed operations and managed to stay afloat during this difficult time Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria was quick to adapt to the trials following the shutdown by offering their regular menu options along with fresh groceries wine deals and select household essentials with takeout which includes outdoor seating on their patio that also extends into the common area “We are so excited to see our customers again both inside the restaurant and outside enjoying the patio,” says Mike Phillips “We would like to thank the community because we would not be able to get through this trying time without their support.” a family owned and operated Italian restaurant that is usually open for lunch and dinner only opened an Italian bakery during the COVID-19 crisis which offers breakfast items such as Italian style pastries the restaurant has officially opened for dine-in services with extended outdoor patio seating “It has been a rough few months for us all and Pino’s could not have made it without the support of the community,” says Frank Domicolo “We would like to sincerely thank everyone for their takeout and delivery orders and we are excited to welcome our customers back for dine-in when they are ready.” a modern Mexican restaurant that just opened in Ladera Ranch last year is currently building a brand-new enclosed outdoor patio to serve both food and alcohol The restaurant will open for dine-in services upon the completion of the patio within the next two weeks customers can still enjoy the Mexican cuisine by ordering takeout and delivery Other Ladera Ranch restaurants currently open and offering dine-in services and/or outdoor patio seating include: BLK Burgrz – 27742 Antonio Pkwy - (949) 429-6666 Ladera Ranch – (949) 364-8537 (limited outdoor patio seating only) Poke Bowlz - 27602 Antonio Pkwy #G1 – (949) 503-1168 (open for dine-in and common area outdoor seating available) The Ranch Sports Grill- 27412 Antonio Pkwy R1 - (949) 429-7737 Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker 2024 at 1:10 pm PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Orange County firefighters were hard at work early Friday morning after a house fire was reported in Ladera Ranch CA — Orange County firefighters were hard at work early Friday morning after a house fire was reported in Ladera Ranch Firefighters were sent to the scene shortly before 1:30 a.m after receiving multiple calls for a heavy fire in a two story home on Wyeth Street in Ladera Ranch firefighters located flames on the first and second floor of the house the resident made it out without injuries," an OCFA social media post statement read "Firefighters are currently checking for hot spots 2019 at 5:43 pm PTImhoff Family honored with the field renaming (Shannon Rubin Photography)Reese Imhoff's memory will live on at the the baseball field named in his honor (Shannon Rubin Photography)Reese Imhoff Field (Shannon Rubin Photo)Team honors former player Reese Imhoff (Shannon Rubin Photo)Memorial wall at Ladera Ranch Little League park CA — A community in mourning following the passing of one of their own has renamed a baseball field in his honor Cox#4 Baseball Field was renamed the Reese Imhoff Memorial Field by Ladera Ranch Little League Nicknamed "Beast," Reese Imhoff "gave his all in whatever he did," a memorial plaque says Reese was a regular presence out at the fields He was an All-Star for several seasons and completed his Little League career in 2015 Reese Imhoff was a constant reminder of perseverance and strength and the source of inspiration His family says that he fought relentlessly for bone cancer research "May the players at these fields be inspired to fight on and keep the faith 2019 at 9:57 pm PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}(Google Map Photo)LADERA RANCH CA —Four Ladera Ranch Middle School kids were taken by ambulance to an area hospital today after ingesting multiple over the counter cold pills According to Orange County Fire Authority Capt Paramedics responded to the school at just before 1:30 p.m "Four students at the Ladera Ranch Middle School and one boy took approximately 10 to 12 Coricidin cough pills each," he told Patch Symptoms of taking too much of the over the counter medication include hallucinations Please remind your kids and students about the dangers of these types of OTC medications The parents of Ladera Ranch Middle School received the following message from the principal four students were transported from our school to Mission Hospital for taking excessive doses of Coricidin "Coricidin is an over the counter cold medicine but in higher doses can have a hallucinogenic effect because Coricidin contains dextromethorphan "We called 911 and Orange County Fire Authority determined it prudent to transport the students "Truly a frightening event, please take the time to review with your children about the dangers of prescription and non-prescription medicines. Here is a link that could be used as a resource." 2018 at 11:12 am PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}LADERA RANCH CA — Gelson's of Ladera Ranch is closing leaving residents in a quandary as to what is happening to local stores Two years after Gelson's opened the 60 employees will be offered new jobs at the expansion Sendero Marketplace of Rancho Mission Viejo and other area stores we are very pleased to offer all of our Ladera Ranch employees a position in other stores to remain part of the Gelson's family," President and CEO Rob McDougall stated "We look forward to continuing to serve the Ladera Ranch community and the surrounding market iwth our beautiful new store in Rancho Mission Viejo just under 3 miles south of Ladera Ranch." The Ladera Ranch Gelson's will start discounting merchandise April 24 Shoppers weren't that enthusiastic of driving into Rancho Mission Viejo according to impromptu on the scene interviews I still like Gelson's but I don't know," one Coto De Caza shopper said She had just discovered the store was closing when talking to workers inside "We finally get a good grocery store and now they're taking it away," she said Gelson's other stores are located in Dana Point As far as the empty space left in Gelson's wake shoppers are now hoping for a Whole Foods to move into the space What store would you like to see in it's place Rancho Mission Viejo; 25636 Crown Valley Pkwy. Print The onetime home of MMA fighter Quinton “Rampage” Jackson is in search of a new champion in Ladera Ranch the Tuscan-style house is in the guard-gated community of Covenant Hills and has a detached casita A brick archway and wooden door mark the entrance to the home which has about 3,100 square feet of interior space The open floor plan connects a living room a center-island kitchen and a formal dining room Jackson sold the home in 2016 for $875,000 Polly Watts of Maxim Properties holds the listing claimed the UFC Light Heavyweight title in 2007 by defeating then-current champion Chuck Liddell He’s amassed 37 wins during his mixed martial arts career jack.flemming@latimes.com Twitter: @jflem94 Matthew Perry quietly sells his Hollywood Hills home for $12.5 million Onetime Tarzana home of jazz legend Al Jarreau flips back on market Former Angels pitcher C.J. Wilson sells Beverly Crest contemporary for $16 million Beverly Hills home of game show host Monty Hall sells in over-asking deal Jack Flemming covers real estate for the Los Angeles Times. He was raised in St. Louis and studied journalism at the University of Missouri. Before joining The Times as an intern in 2017, he wrote for the Columbia Missourian and Politico Europe. Business With the homeowners having opposing design preferences Munoz’s challenge was to blend their two visions with the existing Spanish architecture “Their goal was to lighten up their home and bring it into the 21st century,” Munoz says and the wife was very traditional.” Munoz brought together traditional colors “The wall with the main sofa was a half wall We put a faux barn door over the opening of it to extend the wall space.” They flank either side of the sofa and can be moved around.” We chose blue because that is the wife’s favorite color.” “(Everyone) loves lighter colors but is afraid of them We made sure that the fabrics were such that you could still spill wine on it It’s got a little bit of texture on it—that’s kind of a trick we use to make a room not look too slick.”