By Virginia Vaughn
Potential Buena Park Korean War Memorial
At the March 13 study session, the City Council discussed a potential Korean War Memorial in the City. Staff previously received a letter from the Orange County Korean War Memorial Committee (OCKWMC) requesting the City’s partnership in the construction of a Korean War Memorial at the Ehlers Event Center, southwest of the existing Veterans Memorial area. The Korean War is often referred to as the “Forgotten War” and took place from 1950 to 1953. There are several memorials across the country, and some international memorials, attributed to the Korean War—including one in Washington, D.C.—but none that staff are aware of that last all the military service personnel killed in action. The proposed memorial would honor the approximately 35,000 US soldiers from all branches of the military, who sacrificed their lives during the war. The OCKWMC believes that Buena Park is the best city for this monument as the City boasts a large Korean American population and prides itself on ethnic diversity. Following discussion at the meeting, a majority of the City Council supports a Korean War Memorial in the City if an agreeable location can be identified.
Rethink Your Drink Campaign
For the past several years, the City has actively promoted activities, campaigns and projects that promote the health and wellness of the community. Aligned with those efforts, at the May 8 study session, the City Council voted to support the Rethink Your Drink—Sugar Sweetened Beverage Free Summer campaign. This campaign, organized by the Buena Park Collaborative HEAL Committee, St. Jude Medical Center and the American Heart Association, aims at reducing the consumption of sugared drinks this summer from June 21 through Sept. 22. Those who agree to participate in the campaign and sign a pledge form can receive a #MoveMoreEatHealthy wristband. The City Council is scheduled to approve a proclamation officially supporting the campaign at the next City Council meeting on May 22.
Passport Acceptance Program
On April 16, the City Clerk’s Office began accepting passport applications and taking passport photos by appointment only, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (closed alternating Fridays). If you need a passport or need to update your current passport, please make an appointment with the City Clerk’s Office at 714-562-3578 or passports@buenapark.com.
Upcoming City Events:
-May 28—37th annual Memorial Day Remembrance Service
-May 28—Pools open for Summer Season
-June 2-3—American Cancer Society Relay for Life Event
-June 4—Summer Recreation Classes begin
-June 6-Aug. 29—Summer Concert Series at Boisseranc Park and BP Downtown/Mall
-June 9—Buena Park Police Department and City Hall Open House
-June 15-24—Buena Park Youth Theatre presents “Once on This Island” production
-June 24—Buena Park Community Chorus Concert
