Ceremonies, parades and flag displays are among many free events offered in honor of military men and women this Veterans Day.
Author Archives: Erika Taylor
Erika Taylor was a Tracy A. Wood reporting fellow and photojournalist at Voice of OC, covering transportation, libraries, culture and open space across the county.
Taylor started reporting for Voice of OC through Chapman University’s Collegiate News Service in August 2022, working closely with Director of Photography Julie Leopo to produce news images and photo essays. Through her impactful work with photo essays she received a grant through the university’s Marshutz Endowed Journalism Award to begin as an intern in May 2023.
She joined the Tracy A. Wood Fellowship in November 2023 – a memorial fellowship honoring the newsroom’s legendary Civic Editor.
As part of her senior capstone, she investigated online meeting accessibility across public agencies, leading to a series on the Orange County Transportation Authority’s video live streaming practices. Her reporting prompted OCTA to implement video live streaming at board meetings in December 2024. She also started “Free Things to Do This Weekend Across OC” in November 2023, a weekly series featuring free public events from libraries, museums and other public agencies.
Free Things to Do: Children’s Events and Music Lessons
A demo on playing the ukulele and a family-friendly poetry workshop are among many free events offered through public libraries and OC Parks this weekend.
Voice of OC Alumni Weigh in on Newsroom’s Impact
Former reporters, fellows and student journalists discuss the newsroom’s impact on their skills and the broader landscape of Orange County.
Where to Celebrate Día de Los Muertos in OC
Select cities, cemeteries and public libraries are hosting celebrations for Day of the Dead this year.
Free Halloween Activities Across OC
Nature hikes and several craft events are among many free events offered through public libraries, OC Parks on Halloween and the day before.
Free Things to Do: Explore and Volunteer Outdoors in OC
Wilderness access and outdoor volunteer opportunities are among many free events offered through public libraries, OC Parks and museums this weekend.
Free Things to Do: Outdoor Volunteering and Family-Friendly Activities
Volunteer opportunities in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and a family-friendly math workshop are among many free events offered through public libraries and OC Parks this weekend.
Celebrating Indigenous People’s Day in OC
Cities, local colleges and community groups are hosting several events across the month of October celebrating indigenous culture and history – forgoing Christopher Columbus Day.
Free Things to Do: Halloween Crafts and Volunteer Opportunities
Halloween-themed crafts and volunteer opportunities for all ages are among many free events offered through public libraries, OC Parks and museums this weekend.
Free Things to Do: Health Events and Scenic Hikes
A health expo in Irvine and hikes in the county’s preserved open space are among many free events offered through cities, public libraries and OC Parks this weekend.










