NEWS INSIDE A Monthly Community Newspaper JUNE 2025 Real Estate Page 5 Canyon Beat Page 6 Service Directory Pages 11-12 Professional Directory Page 13 Community Sports Page 14-15 The Best News In Town Since 1969 FOLLOW US at Foothills Sentry LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR Corporation with local roots and national reach will erect new headquarters in City of Orange. See Ground, page 5 SURFIN’ SENEGAL Canyon man travels across the globe to ride the waves on his 80th birthday. See Tired, page 9 WHERE THERE’S FIRE California Fire Marshal releases updates to fire hazard maps delineating responsibilities for vulnerable communities. See State, page 2 DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS Local organizations reward high achieving seniors with scholarships for college. See stories, pages 5, 7 BUILDING BLOCKS City of Tustin enters final planning stages for transformation of former Marine base. See Tustin Legacy, page 8 See "Orange Unified" continued on page 5 The City of Orange’s Santiago Creek Commission has been meeting quarterly to develop a strategic plan to guide the waterway’s future. The commission is currently exploring the existing state of the publicly owned portions of the creek and identifying options for its use as a recreational amenity for the public. Still early in the process, the recurring themes are planting trees and native vegetation, connecting and landscaping bike paths and walkways, and eventually creating a linear park. Photos by David Hillman North Tustin ZIP code gets another chance U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) has signed on to a bill, HR3095, that would give North Tustin a dedicated ZIP code. The bill must pass the House and then the Senate to be enacted. Kim joined with 26 other representatives to co-sponsor the bill that would give 74 communities nationwide their own ZIP code. North Tustin is one of six California communities that would benefit from the legislation. “North Tustin has long been a pillar of Orange County, but its status as an unincorporated area causes confusion for taxes and USPS,” Kim said. “A unique ZIP code would provide certainty for residents who have called North Tustin home for decades. I will keep working to get this across the finish line for North Tustin residents.” Community identity “I am pleased to see this ZIP code change moving ahead and thank Congresswoman Kim for working with my office to prioritize this issue facing our shared constituency," said Orange County Third District Supervisor Don Wagner. "For far too long, our constituents in North Tustin have been subjected to excess local taxes solely because of their ZIP code. They never voted for the taxes, raising a constitutional concern of taxation without representation." “The residents of North Tustin are grateful to Congresswoman Young Kim for co-sponsoring a bill that will create a unique ZIP code for North Tustin,” said Richard Nelson, president of the Foothill Communities Association. “Until 1996, North Tustin had a unique ZIP code. Expanding the area of the ZIP code into neighboring communities created many problems and confusion. We applaud our congresswoman for supporting our community.” Sellers of safe and sane fireworks in Orange chosen by lottery A lottery to select nonprofits eligible to sell safe and sane fireworks in Orange was conducted at the May 13 City Council meeting. When voters approved the sale of fireworks within city limits last November, the city council agreed to issue 12 permits to qualified organizations wishing to sell them. A qualified organization is defined as any nonprofit recognized by state or federal law, a group that is an integral part of an established charity or any educational facility located within the City of Orange. When passing the ordinance allowing fireworks sales, the council set aside four of the 12 permits for the city’s high schools: El Modena, Orange, Orange Lutheran and Richland. It is up to the school to determine which organization within its purview will have the opportunity to sell fireworks. Richland High School declined the permit, which left nine slots to be filled via the lottery. The city received 32 applications; of those, 26 were deemed qualified. Lottery winners were chosen by a random drawing, with the mayor and each council member in attendance pulling one name at a time from the vessel containing uniform slips of paper bearing the name and number of the applicant. Those selected are: The Hub OC, Journey to Hope Ministries, Carter-Drenner-Kalms Foundation, Inc., St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School, Spirit and Truth Worship Center, Salem Lutheran Church and School, Orange Plaza Rotary, North Sunrise Little League and Fletcher Elementary PTSA. Those groups must now obtain the needed city permit to conduct the fireworks sale. Six additional names were drawn as a backup, in case any in the first group drop out. Those on the alternate list include, in order: Hub for Integration, Reentry & Employment, Olive Pony Baseball, American Legion Post 132, House of Mercy, Scepter Chapter #132 Order of the Eastern Star and the Orange International Street Fair. Sales will commence on July 1. Sales on July 1, 2 and 3 will be legal from noon to 10 p.m. Sales on July 4 will commence at 10 a.m. and end at 9 p.m. Orange Unified hires new superintendent By Tina Richards The Orange Unified Board of Trustees approved a three-year contract with Rachel Monárrez to serve as the district’s superintendent at the May 7 board meeting. Her name was selected from a field of qualified candidates generated by a search firm. Of 24 applicants, the board narrowed the field to five for interviews. “It was unanimous,” Board President Kris Erickson said of Monárrez’s selection. "All of the candidates we interviewed were excellent, but she rose to the top of the list of each board member.” Monárrez comes to OUSD from the Worcester Public Schools in Massachusetts, where, as superintendent, she was credited with increased academic performance, organizational effectiveness and community outreach. She was named a “Superintendent to Watch” by the National School Public Relations Association based on her dedication to communication and family engagement. Before Worcester, Monárrez was deputy superintendent in the San Bernardino City Unified School District. With 31 years’ experience in public education, she previously served as assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, senior director of an English learner program, principal and teacher. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Monárrez holds a Ph.D. in urban education and a master’s degree in education from Claremont Graduate University. She also has a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of California, Irvine. Before voting to approve the contract, board members explained the hiring and selection process to constituents attending the board meeting. “This is the first superintendent the district has hired from outside since 2008,” Erickson said. “It was a collaborative and constructive process built on the voices of staff, community members, surveys and listening sessions. “You told us you wanted someone with experience in California education, committed to building trust and listening, who appreciates diversity, and has an unwavering commitment to all OUSD students. Dr. Monárrez stood out. She is laser focused on student achievement, has whole school experience. Her entire body of work emphasizes continued learning and transparent communication.” Sara Pelly, a former educator and elementary school principal, reported that she was looking for a candidate with a wide range of experience, starting with the younger grades. “Monárrez worked all the way up,” Pelly noted, “including English learners. She increased the literacy rate in her Massachusetts district and looked at different funding Rachel Monárrez
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Post Alarm pairs generations of experience with our proprietary live video monitoring service to protect, detect, respond, and deter threats before a crime occurs. • Strategically installed cameras use advanced analytics to detect potential threats. • Real-time notifications are sent to you and our central monitoring station. • Post Agents view camera feeds, verify the threat, and dispatch local law enforcement, relaying critical details. • Responders are dispatched in seconds, often preventing crime before it happens. Night Shield® Services: Schedule your in-home assessment today! Contact Us ACO 1843 | PPO 10170 | Contractors License 670585 ACO 1843 | PPO 10170 Contractors License: 670585 ® Night Shield FROM POST ALARM SERVICES INC SECURITY JADTEC (949) 894-4839 PostAlarm.com SCC to celebrate commencement during 25th anniversary year Santiago Canyon College (SCC) will celebrate its annual commencement ceremony at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 5, at Fred Kelly Stadium. This milestone event marks a special moment in the college’s history, recognizing student achievement during SCC’s 25th Anniversary Year. Nearly 1,300 students have been invited to participate in the 2025 commencement ceremony, with SCC anticipating the conferral of more than 3,500 degrees, certificates and awards. More than 400 graduates are expected to cross the stage, supported by an estimated 3,500 family members and friends. Each graduate may invite up to eight guests, with seating available on a firstcome, first-served basis. Guest tickets are required for entry. For more information about Santiago Canyon College’s commencement ceremony, email commencement@sccollege.edu or see sccollege.edu/commencement. A Fire Hazard Severity Zone map, issued by the State Fire Marshal, that outlines areas of local responsibility was adopted by the Orange City Council, May 13. By mandate of AB211, local governments are required to adopt the maps without decreasing the defined level of hazard. The Orange map was made available for public review at the end of March. No recommendations for expansion, the only alteration the city could suggest, were received. The city fire department recommended the council approve the map without any changes. The state’s Fire Hazard Severity Zone map, however, includes areas of the city wherein the council had previously approved the use of safe and sane fireworks. To ensure the exclusion zone for fireworks conformed with the state map, the council amended the ordinance to broaden the portions of the city where fireworks are prohibited. The amendment makes the sale, ignition, discharge or use of safe and sane fireworks “in any area located east of Hewes Street within the City's jurisdictional boundaries, any area west of Cannon Street, north of Santiago Canyon Road, south of Taft Avenue within the City’s jurisdictional boundaries, any area located east of Cannon Street north of Santiago Canyon Road within the City's jurisdictional boundaries, and any area east of Meats Avenue north of the City of OrangeVilla Park city limit boundary within the City’s jurisdictional boundaries.” City and County boundaries as of 10/22/24 (CA Board of Equalization) CAL FIRE State Responsibility Areas (SRA25_1) CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZSRA23_3, FHSZLRA_25_1) Data Sources: Daniel Berlant, State Fire Marshal, CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Joe Tyler, Director/Fire Chief, CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Wade Crowfoot, Secretary for Natural Resources, CA Natural Resources Agency Gavin Newsom, Governor, State of California The State of California and the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy of data or maps. Neither the State nor the Department shall be liable under any circumstances for any direct, special, incidental, or consequential damages with respect to any claim by any user or third party on account of, or arising from, the use of data or maps. and other relevant factors including areas where winds have been identified by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a major cause of wildfire spread. statewide criteria and based on the severity of fire hazard that is expected to prevail in those areas. Moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones shall be based on fuel loading, slope, fire weather, Government Code section 51178 requires the State Fire Marshal to identify areas in the state as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on consistent Waterbody Unzoned LRA Incorporated City Projection: NAD 83 California Teale Albers Scale: 1:72,000 at 11" x 17" 0 1 2 3 4 5 Km 0 1 2 3 Mi Very High High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Area (SRA), Effective April 1, 2024 Very High High Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) in Local Responsibility Area (LRA), as Identified by the State Fire Marshal Orange 5 UNINCORPORATED ORANGE CO. 22 261 55 241 57 ANAHEIM ANAHEIM FULLERTON GARDEN GROVE IRVINE PLACENTIA SANTA ANA TUSTIN VILLA PARK YORBA LINDA March 24, 2025 As Identified by the State Fire Marshal Local Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zones CITY OF ORANGE – ORANGE COUNTY City and County boundaries as of 10/22/24 (CA Board of Equalization) CAL FIRE State Responsibility Areas (SRA25_1) CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZSRA23_3, FHSZLRA_25_1) Data Sources: Daniel Berlant, State Fire Marshal, CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Joe Tyler, Director/Fire Chief, CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Wade Crowfoot, Secretary for Natural Resources, CA Natural Resources Agency Gavin Newsom, Governor, State of California partment of Forestry and Fire ns or warranties regarding the the State nor the Department shall s for any direct, special, incidental, spect to any claim by any user or g from, the use of data or maps. and other relevant factors including areas where winds have been identified by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a major cause of wildfire spread. statewide criteria and based on the severity of fire hazard that is expected to prevail in those areas. Moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones shall be based on fuel loading, slope, fire weather, 78 requires the State Fire e state as moderate, high, rity zones based on consistent Waterbody Unzoned LRA Incorporated City Projection: NAD 83 California Teale Albers Scale: 1:72,000 at 11" x 17" 0 1 2 3 4 5 Km 0 1 2 3 Mi Very High High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Area (SRA), Effective April 1, 2024 Very High High Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) in Local Responsibility Area (LRA), as Identified by the State Fire Marshal Orange 5 UNINCORPORATED ORANGE CO. 22 261 55 241 57 IRVINE SANTA ANA TUSTIN City and County boundaries as of 10/22/24 (CA Board of Equalization) CAL FIRE State Responsibility Areas (SRA25_1) CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZSRA23_3, FHSZLRA_25_1) Data Sources: Daniel Berlant, State Fire Marshal, CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Joe Tyler, Director/Fire Chief, CA Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Wade Crowfoot, Secretary for Natural Resources, CA Natural Resources Agency Gavin Newsom, Governor, State of California partment of Forestry and Fire ns or warranties regarding the the State nor the Department shall s for any direct, special, incidental, spect to any claim by any user or g from, the use of data or maps. and other relevant factors including areas where winds have been identified by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as a major cause of wildfire spread. statewide criteria and based on the severity of fire hazard that is expected to prevail in those areas. Moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones shall be based on fuel loading, slope, fire weather, 78 requires the State Fire e state as moderate, high, rity zones based on consistent Waterbody Unzoned LRA Incorporated City Projection: NAD 83 California Teale Albers Scale: 1:72,000 at 11" x 17" 1 2 3 4 5 Km 0 1 2 3 Mi Very High High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Area (SRA), Effective April 1, 2024 Very High High Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) in Local Responsibility Area (LRA), as Identified by the State Fire Marshal Orange 5 UNINCORPORATED ORANGE CO. 22 261 55 241 57 IRVINE SANTA ANA TUSTIN State’s Fire Hazard Zone map prompts changes to City of Orange fireworks boundaries OPA Dreamin’ at 4th of July Parade The 58th annual 4th of July Parade is themed “OPA Dreamin’,” bringing together horses and equestrians, woodies and surfboards. Staging for the parade begins at 9 a.m. on Orange Park Boulevard adjacent to Salem Lutheran Church. The parade begins at 10 a.m. Grand Marshal for this year’s event is Salem Pastor Roger Frick. Registration for the parade, online at orangeparkacres.org, opens June 1. Scheduling, a road closure map and additional information is also available on the website. The OPA 5k run precedes the parade, starting at 7:45 a.m. OPA is a no fireworks zone. Villa Park, North Tustin and the canyons are served by the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA). This map from the State Fire Marshal shows which high fire hazard zones are the responsibility of OCFA, and which are Cal Fire. All fire agencies help each other out when needed. Concert in the (Villa) Park The Kings of 88 will kick off the summer, performing Sat., June 30 at Cerro Villa Middle School. Their fun and danceable music features the Legends of Piano Rock – Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lew, Billy Joel, Elton John, and more! This free community event is hosted by the Villa Park Community Services Foundation; for information about the organization, see VPCSFoundation.org.
Page 3 Foothills Sentry JUNE 2025 Family. Friends. Community. We’re all in this together. State Farm, Bloomington, IL 1801073 Ron Esparza, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0C79663 827 S. Tustin Ave Orange, CA 92866 Bus: 714-505-3400 ron@ronesparza.com Vets make music at American Legion Post #132 American Legion Post #132 in Orange celebrated the graduation of its first class of veterans from the Guitars for Vets program, marking a milestone in music therapy and community engagement for local military heroes. “Music has the power to heal, and that’s exactly what this program is about,” said course instructor Art Rothafel. “It’s inspiring to see these veterans pick up a guitar and use music as a path to wellness, self-expression and camaraderie.” The Guitars for Vets initiative, a national nonprofit, partners with local organizations like American Legion Post #132 to provide free guitar lessons and instruments to veterans coping with PTSD and other service-related challenges. The success of this inaugural class signals strong interest in expanding the program throughout Orange County. The graduation ceremony recognized the dedication and musical accomplishments of participating veterans who completed the 10-week guitar instruction program. Each graduate was presented with a brand-new acoustic guitar and accessory kit — theirs to keep — along with heartfelt applause from fellow vets and program coordinators. “This is just the beginning,” said Rothafel. “Our current class is full, but we welcome sign-ups for our September program. For more information about future sessions or how to enroll in the program, please contact Art Rothafel at art.rothafel@guitarsforvets.org or visit https://g4v101. com. Supporters, donors and volunteers are encouraged to get involved and help bring the power of music to more veterans in the community. TAWC names Young Women of the Month The Tustin Area Woman’s Club announced its final Young Women of the Month for the 2024-25 school year. They are Sara Farnoush from Foothill High School and Krissy Lee from Tustin High. Sara Farnoush is an International Baccalaureate candidate and has been on the Mock Trial team for four years. She serves as president of the California Scholarship Federation and vice president of the National Honor Society at FHS. She has been a dedicated member of Foothill’s Advanced Theater Arts program, performing in three productions each year for the last two years. Farnoush is a varsity athlete on the track and field team, competing in shot put and discus. She is a proud Girl Scout and the co-CEO of Oui Tutor, a nonprofit free tutoring service for underserved elementary students. She will be attending UC Berkeley in the fall and plans to study business, with a minor in global studies. Krissy Lee is involved in Tustin High’s Vietnamese Student Association, the French Club, Comic Club, and was the secretary of the Chess Club and treasurer of the Graphic Design Club. She participated in an internship with Irvine Moms, focusing on the marketing field. She tutors students in English and mentors them with classwork and homework. Lee plans to attend UC San Diego in the fall, majoring in biology and will pursue a career in healthcare. Also named for May are Mili Shah of Beckman High; Janelle Huerta and Kiera Ananya Seth of Legacy Magnet. Sara Farnoush Krissy Lee National Charity League celebrates seniors The National Charity League, Inc. Orange/Villa Park Chapter celebrated its Class of 2025 Ticktockers at the annual Senior Recognition event, held at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. Senior Recognition is a meaningful tradition across NCL chapters, honoring graduating seniors for their six years of service, leadership and growth. Each of these young people has dedicated countless hours to local philanthropies, developed leadership skills, and strengthened bonds with their mothers and fellow Ticktockers. Top row, from left, Kennedy DeMarco, Taylor Robinson, Nickolette Morrell, Chloe Samson, Fallon Boyle, Amber Larsen, Ava Candelaria, Isabella Puccio, Joslyn Winn. Front row, from left, Ava Kellman, Trudy Schmidt, Hailey Rodriguez, Olivia Trevizo, Abygail Durdella, Sophia Griego, May Reyes, Claire Elliott. The inaugural class of Guitars for Vets celebrates graduation day.
Foothills Sentry Page 4 JUNE 2025 Circulation … 40,000 Published on the last Tuesday of each month and distributed to residences, businesses, libraries and civic centers. Printing by Advantage, Inc. 714-532-4406 Fax: 714-532-6755 foothillssentry.com 1107 E. Chapman Ave., #207 Orange, CA 92866 ©Foothills Sentry 2025 Publisher/Editor Anita Bennyhoff 1969-2013 Editor Tina Richards editor@foothillssentry.com Sports Editor Cliff Robbins sportseditor@att.net Graphic Designer Jef Maddock graphics@foothillssentry.com Advertising Sales Andie Mills advertising@foothillssentry.com 714-926-9299 Office Manager officemanager@foothillssentry.com “The Wall That Heals” brings Vietnam memorial tribute to Orange will be honored— a solemn reminder of this history that remains in our city. Open to the public 24 hours a day, the wall gives visitors the chance to reflect, remember, and learn. A mobile Education Center travels with the memorial, sharing the stories of those whose names are etched into the wall and educating younger generations about the war’s enduring legacy. For many, this visit represents more than a historical moment— it’s deeply personal. Orange is the only city in Southern California to host The Wall That Heals (TWTH), and approximately 15,000 visitors will come from far and near to visit TWTH during the four-day event. Orange families who lost loved ones in Vietnam, including Gold Star families, will be honored in a dedicated ceremony. Their sacrifices remain etched in the community’s conscience, and this event offers a chance to publicly acknowledge that loss with dignity and gratitude. Additionally, there will be a special segment recognizing veterans affected by Agent Orange exposure. Many Vietnam veterans returned home carrying invisible wounds—physical and psychological—that persisted long after the war. This tribute aims to shine a light on their suffering and resilience, and to affirm that their struggles have not been forgotten. The arrival of The Wall That Heals has been made possible thanks to the tireless efforts of local volunteers and the generosity of community sponsors. From coordinating logistics to staffing the site and assisting visitors, dozens of volunteers—many of them veterans—will ensure that each person who visits feels welcomed and supported. “Hosting The Wall That Heals in Orange is a community effort," said Doug Redding, president of The Wall That Heals Orange – 2025. "Veterans, volunteers, city leaders and neighbors have all come together to bring The Wall home. Our focus is simple: to honor those who served and to create a space for healing and reflection.” Sponsorships and donations from local businesses, service clubs and residents have made the event possible, reflecting Orange’s long-standing commitment to honoring military service. Those wishing to contribute can visit our website: TheWallThatHealsOrange-2025. org, call (714) 497-0257, or email INFO@TheWallThatHealsOrange-2025.org. Ceremonies and educational programs will run throughout the exhibit’s stay, with a full schedule available online and onsite. For more information or to donate and volunteer, visit TheWallThatHealsOrange-2025.org. As Orange welcomes The Wall That Heals, it does so with reverence, reflection, and a solemn promise to remember the names, stories, and lives that shaped a generation. Actions speak louder Dear Editor: In the dead of the night, while America was asleep, Rep. Young Kim made a troubling decision— contrary to her promise to the American people that she would not take away their healthcare. This is a clear betrayal of trust. Republicans in Congress voted to strip healthcare from millions of Californians in order to provide tax breaks to billionaires, prioritizing the wealthy over the health of our communities. Rep. Young Kim had the opportunity to protect Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act but chose not to. We must hold her accountable and make it clear that this is unacceptable. We are not merely numbers in a budget; we are real people deserving of quality healthcare. Let your Congressman know how you feel about slashes in funding to our health care system. This is the time for us all to let our elected officials know that we will not sit by while White House starts hacking away at these entitlements. In the City of Orange that would be Representative Young Kim (young.kim@mail. house.gov). MarkMoore Orange Editor’s note: The House budget bill passed by a 215 to 214 vote in the wee hours of May 22. As the negotiations continued through the night, many last minute changes were made to the bill. It is unclear whether Kim read the bill she supported. Shock and bah! Dear Editor: What is the matter with Orange Unified? The board says that enrollment is declining, so they’re looking at consolidating and selling off schools. Currently poised for the chopping block is La Veta Elementary – an Advisory Committee is meeting to explore selling part of the school property. What the heck?? How do you rip part of a children’s school away from them? I thought California was so focused on kids’ physical and mental health? Where are they supposed to exercise and relax with almost the entire playing field taken away? We’ve been here before – it’s nothing new if Orange Unified reacts rashly when school enrollment is declining. So what happens when older residents move out of neighborhoods, and young families move in? All of a sudden, we have a school shortage – not enough space for kids to learn. And with Newsom’s outrageous demands for California cities to increase housing density, those days of increasing enrollment are surely coming fast. Then there's the impact on the neighborhood if this sale moves forward. Who is the likely buyer? Surely a developer -- and surely a developer who will want to help the city comply with our governor's outrageous demands to squeeze apartments into every available square inch. High density apartments in this singlefamily-dwelling neighborhood will stress our already overtaxed power grid, impact the sewer system, dramatically increase traffic, and along with it, noise and air pollution. Pull it together, Orange Unified. Spend your creative energy on something that can make a positive difference – like improving academic and recreational programs for the students you already have, and the students you want to attract to your schools. Elisabeth Beall Orange Dear Editor: What a shock to find out that Orange Unified is considering selling part or all of our neighborhood’s La Veta Elementary School. Not at all shocking was the dismal way the district “informed” the community about the advisory committee considering this sale – or the meetings they had scheduled in the district’s transportation yard, of all places, to discuss it. The district apparently wants to sell off part of the school property because of declining enrollment. I fail to see how the sale of most of the playing field addresses the decline in student population. How about focusing on being a trusted resource for the community, instead of threatening to remove resources from students and their families? Orange Unified may have an enrollment problem. But the answer isn’t taking more away from students – particularly students from a minority community, who are receiving free or discounted lunches. If Orange Unified thinks it can pull the playing field out from under these students, they should know that they will have a fight on their hands. Eleanor Bullock Orange Good to know Dear Editor: Thank you for including the guest commentary of Orange Unified School Board President Kris Erickson in last month’s issue. As soon-to-be OUSD parents, we are pleased to see the school district our child will be attending for the next 13 years taking a long-term approach to planning the best education for our child and use of our tax dollars. With financial uncertainties ahead, we’re assured by the proactive nature of Erickson’s comments. Many of the problems we see locally in cities and school districts have a root cause in simply pretending the problems aren’t there, refusing to make adjustments, and then having an emergency when the problem has been left to fester for far too long. We are pleased with these attempts to keep community members like ourselves informed, and look forward to being part of the conversation as OUSD takes on the issues of today. David Dufault Dr. Lisa Leitz Orange Trust busted Dear Editor: Congratulations to the Foothills Sentry for its exemplary reporting last month regarding the millions of dollars intended for Rancho Santiago CCD that have been hidden from the public and elected officials for decades. ("RSCCD Finds Funds Hidden by Insurance Cooperative"). A scathing forensic audit, paid for by taxpayers, outlined education code violations, conflicts of interest, inaccurate accounting, failure to report to the auditors, improper use of the funds - all of which created “the impairment of public confidence.” One would think this would be enough for the board to take the appropriate action against those culpable for this embarrassment. Instead, Board President Daisy Tong wants $50,000 to pay another firm to review the forensic audit and evaluate its findings! If anyone wonders why there will never be a bond passed for the college district, this debacle is why. Barry Resnick Orange Land a better legacy Following is an open letter to Donald Bren, Chairman of the Irvine Company: Dear Mr. Bren: As I once met you many years ago, I hope this letter makes its way to your desk. A pleasurable encounter, I was impressed, especially learning how you’ve kept so much land open for us to enjoy. Rapidlydisappearingwilderness, whether locally or globally, is of tremendous concern. I was quite surprised and taken aback to learn of the Orange Heights project. Certainly, you’ve obtained substantial wealth to last your family many times over, enough for generations to come. Please leave a legacy of one who kept lands open for people to hike and wildlife to thrive. Below is a quote from a letter I had sent about an experience at Irvine Regional Park. Many of us visit parks to escape the noise and pandemonium of urban living. We want to immerse our minds, truly our souls, into the wonderfully healing properties nature provides. We enjoy watching and listening to the multiple bird species that visit this jewel of an oasis. Stephen Tyler Orange By Chris Locke A powerful symbol of remembrance and healing is coming to Orange. From October 2–5, The Wall That Heals Orange-2025, a three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be installed at Grijalva Park. The exhibit honors the 58,281 men and women who died in the Vietnam War, including 23 servicemembers who once called Orange home. During the exhibit, they SCC makes Esports official Santiago Canyon College (SCC) welcomed more than 400 students, faculty, staff and community members to its inaugural Neon Night, held May 8. The highlight was SCC President Jeannie G. Kim, Ph.D. announcement that Esports will become an official college sport at SCC in Fall 2025. The Esports program, led by Head Coach Roshan Uma, will join SCC’s nine intercollegiate athletic programs and compete year-round. Neon Nights featured an Esports showcase, where student teams competed on a 40-foot stage enhanced by a 20-foot LED video wall. The event also included a Prompt-a-Thon, an artificial intelligence tournament where students applied AI tools to tackle real-world challenges in the medical field, and Resource Alley, where attendees could connect with staff and explore hands-on exhibits from college programs and industry partners across technology, gaming and healthcare fields. Neon Night reflects SCC’s mission to foster academic innovation, community connection, and student opportunity. To learn more about SCC, see sccollege. edu.
Page 5 Foothills Sentry JUNE 2025 JOHNSON MOTORCARS 34 Years of Specializing in the Service and Repair of Mercedes-Benz Gary Johnson 714-997-2567 982 N. Batavia # B13, Orange, CA 92867 gary@johnsonmotorcars.com @ramblingroseoc for different schools to make sure everybody was getting what they need.” “This was a new process for all of us,” Ana Page said. “We got some 2,000 survey results in multiple languages. We held focus groups in English and Spanish. Dr. Monárrez connects with families in English and Spanish. She is a transformational leader." “Selecting a superintendent is the most important task the board takes on," Andrea Yamasaki advised. "We worked with the community to put together a collective vision for our schools. That collective vision included a passion for students, teachers and public education; someone familiar with the area who is bilingual. She has that experience, most of it in California. She has plans for community roundtables and visited every one of our schools before her interview.” While the majority of the audience at the meeting expressed support for the board’s choice, there was one naysayer who expressed her discontent with the candidate during public comments. Crystal Miles said she was concerned that the board didn’t release the survey results and formally requested them. “And,” she noted, “the board is missing an important point. Recall voters wanted someone to land in the middle. I believe you guys landed far to the left. You haven’t given us any reason for hiring her, except she’s bilingual." Erickson suggested that “caring about kids is not a left or right issue, that public education should not be political.” Stephen Glass summarized the view of the board, noting, “how often can you say we hired the most qualified person and stand on that. There was no better individual to take on this position at this particular time.” Monárrez starts July 1. "Orange Unified" continued from page 1 Ground broken for MSI headquarters in Orange Officials from the City of Orange, Supervisor Don Wagner’s office and the offices of Representative Lou Correa, State Assemblyman Avelino Valencia and State Senator Steven Choi joined the owners of MS International to break ground for the company’s new headquarters in Orange. “We are proud to have you in the city,” Mayor Dan Slater said. “You are a true American success story and we are happy to help the company grow and expand in the City of Orange.” “This is really the story of America,” MSI owner Manu Shah noted. “It’s the story of an immigrant coming to America and achieving success.” Shah and his wife Rika started the company 50 years ago, providing quality stone for residential and commercial use. Today, MSI is a leading supplier of flooring, countertop, wall tile, and hardscaping products in North America. It boasts 3,000 employees in 57 locations. The Shahs moved the company to Orange in 2003, and the family has lived in the city for 29 years. Sons Raj and Rup Shah grew up in the business and have taken over its day-to-day operations. “This is not just a building,” Raj Shah said of the new headquarters, “it reflects who we are, and we chose Orange because the city shares our values.” Wielding shovels are, from left, Orange Councilman Denis Bilodeau, Orange Councilwoman Kathy Tavoularis, Mayor Dan Slater, MSI owners Raj, Sona, Rika and Manu and Rup Shah and Planning Commissioner Rick Martinez. Artist's rendering of the MSI headquarters Rika and Manu Shah accept an acknowledgement from Mayor Dan Slater. Tustin Area Man and Woman of the Year nominees announced By Mark Eliot Nominees, three men and three women, have been announced for the 2024 Tustin Area Man and Woman of the Year (TAMWY) by local nonprofit groups. The 2024 nominees for Man of the Year are: Johnny Johnson, American Legion Tustin Post 227; Brady Michel, Tustin Host Lions Club; and Ed Reynolds, Tustin Community Foundation. The nominees for Woman of the Year are: Tammis Berkheimer, Tustin Community Foundation; Nettie Hershman, Tustin Area Woman's Club; and Sona Shah, My Private Professor. The TAMWY program has been held for more than 60 years. Tustin area individuals are recognized for their dedicated work, leadership and outstanding volunteerism in the community. Nominations for the awards come from local nonprofit organizations or previous winners (TAMWY Committee "life members"). The annual Tustin Area Man and Woman of the Year Awards Dinner will be held on Friday, June 6, at 6 p.m. at the Santa Ana Elks Lodge, 1751 S. Elks Lane. The dinner is attended by city and county officials, previous TAMWY award winners and community members. TAMWY 2025 Awards Dinner tickets can be purchased at the Tustin Community Foundation website at TustinCommunityFoundation.org. Additionally, the TAMWY Committee will recognize an outstanding high school senior from the Tustin Unified School District. Student musicians from Beckman High School will perform at the event. For more information, please contact 2022 TAWOY Sharon King at sharonking01@gmail. com, or 2022 TAMOY Kurt Bensworth at kbauthor2@gmail. com. Tustin Area Woman’s Club announces scholarship winners Tustin Area Woman’s Club (TAWC), an all-volunteer philanthropic community service organization, has announced its college scholarship winners for 2025. For over 60 years, TAWC has given college scholarships to deserving Tustin Unified School District students. This year, TAWC has awarded a $1,000 collegiate scholarship to two graduating seniors from each of the five high schools in the district: Foothill, Tustin, Hillview, Beckman and Legacy Magnet Academy. From Foothill High, Isabella Lugoj plans to attend UCLA to study biochemistry and molecular biology; Alexis Chew will attend UC San Diego to study human biology. From Tustin, Roselyn Gallegos is exploring Vanguard, Cal State Fullerton or Azusa Pacific to earn a degree in nursing; Ruby Nguyen looks forward to studying public health sciences at UC Irvine. Other awardees include Mia Ayala and Julissa Rivera from Hillview; Madeleine Chang and Madison Heimann from Beckman; Rabina Kaur and Jaidyn Lin from Legacy Magnet. Photos by Tony Richards
Foothills Sentry Page 6 JUNE 2025 We are proud of all you have accomplished and excited for the bright future ahead. Keep striving toward your goals—this is just the beginning of great things to come. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors! Orange Uni�ied School District Trustees, Administrators, Teachers, and Staff CLASSOF 2025 ESTABLISHED 1953 Oh, no, not another learning experience! Further (Re)developments Sil-Mod Recreation and Parks District (SMRPD) directors and local activists have lately gotten a crash course on the distribution of property tax revenues, which largely fund SMRPD, but were supplemented, until recently, by leftover monies from state redevelopment agencies, abolished in 2012. Their remaining assets were since then regularly redistributed, including in Orange County, to projects including our recreation and parks district. Surprising to SMRPD, those anticipated funds in fact ran out last August, with the county suggesting it might use other sources to partially support us, now short significant anticipated annual operating funds -- about which nobody told the board last year. Among other needs, President Ted Wright points most urgently to the district’s liability insurance bill, due on both Silverado and Modjeska parks and community centers in July, with worries that the timing of promised property tax monies in fall threatens continued use of these popular facilities over the summer months. The Children’s Center is in the black for now, but utilities and site maintenance are at risk even as the board has taken measures to eliminate less essential services. Wright identified an estimated immediate $40,000- $50,000 shortfall, and recently asked for help and direction from Supervisor Wagner’s office. It responded by contacting the OC Auditor-Controller’s office, mostly toward answering everybody’s biggest question: Why wasn’t the SMRPD notified of the shortfall for this fiscal year? Meanwhile, thanks to two stalwart volunteers who have placed their names into consideration as replacements for outgoing directors Brittney Kuhn and Tamara Beauchamp. Wright and the board announce their appointments in June. At your service May’s ICL meeting featured reading of Representative Young Kim’s (R-CA 40) written response to the board’s letter regarding the firing of 1,700 full-time National Park Service workers, and staffer John Ding reporting the Congressmember’s willingness to meet with canyon residents. Lately averse to town halls, an in-person visit would be a welcome first from a sitting member of Congress. Her letter reminded Leaguers that Kim supported the March Continuing Resolution (CR) if inexplicably referencing “a historic pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers” [sic], i.e., those in U.S. military service. The letter also referenced the CR’s long-overdue pay raise for unionized federal wildland firefighters. It continues: “… we have received strong assurances from the Natural Resources Committee that full staffing for the Forest Service remains a top priority for Chairman [and forester Bruce] Westerman [R-AR]." To further these efforts, the Congresswoman will be leading an appropriations request to direct the Forest Service to prioritize addressing the growing threat of Goldspotted Oak Borers (GSOBs) in our forests.” How a firefighter raise relates to GSOBs is unclear or only AIgenerated. Thus far, Cleveland National Forest (CNF) has no plans, much less staff, to address infected or vulnerable trees. More ICL … History Committee member Scott Breedon’s report celebrated Clara Mason Fox (1873-1959), pioneer, watercolorist, and poet of Orange County. An exhibition of her work, “Canyon Colors: The Botanical Art of Clara Mason Fox,” is at the Moulton Museum in Laguna Hills through June 26. ICL. Fire Safe Council sponsors a Chipper Day, June 7, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Riviera. Francesca Duff reported that a county consultant will survey unincorporated areas subject to planned road maintenance and development plans, with a visit from Public Works likely at the Aug. 5 (first Tuesday of each month) ICL meeting. Volunteers are needed, including licensed bartenders, for the Oct. 11-12 annual Country Fair. Contact geoff. sarkissian@intercanyonleague. org. Third Saturday No, not the name of an OC cover band, just the date to remember for the Silverado Summer Concert Series, this month on Saturday, June 21 featuring 70s rockers Act Yer Age and classic 80s outfit Flip Out, live on the Zach Dupree Stage. Audience participation! The Library of the Canyons offers eclectic educational and entertaining summer programming in June, starting with the first Wednesday book club discussion of "Lies and Weddings" by Kevin Kwan. See the online calendar for knitting, adult crafts and origami classes; a docent-led family hike and astronomy lecture; and two comedy-magic shows featuring juggling, puppetry and games. Thanks to Friends of the Library, whose June 1 “Spring Fling” fundraiser supports these activities. Lorraine (Lopez) Castruita, RIP Longtime Modjeska resident and pet whisperer Lorraine Castruita reportedly passed away just weeks after departing her Modjeska Canyon home. Her gentle manner and big smile were appreciated by locals, but her singular, remarkable gift was a St. Francis-like empathy for animals. Locals Chris and Dayna Edwards: “Lorraine began as our pet sitter but quickly became our friend, and the apple of our dog’s eye. When she pulled up in her ‘treatmobile,’Abbey could hardly contain her excitement. Our pets knew, as we did, just how deeply she loved them. One of the most compassionate, loving, and kind-hearted people we’ve ever known, Lorraine will be missed.” OC Dems to feature Katie Porter The Central Orange County Democratic Club will welcome former House member and present California governor candidate Katie Porter at its Wednesday, June 25 meeting. This event will fill up quickly, so anyone wishing to attend should sign up early. Club members get first access to meeting notices, so join the club to be the first to know about club events. Snacks and conversation at 6:30 p.m.; general meeting starts at 7 p.m. Visit the club website calendar, Mobilize.us or the club Facebook link to access the Mobilize link to RSVP, which is required to attend. Central Dems includes the communities of Tustin, North Tustin, Orange, Villa Park and Anaheim Hills. All, however, are welcome to join. Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 1221 Wass St. in Tustin. Central OC Dems is not affiliated with St. Paul’s. Contact the group at CentralOCDems@gmail.com or visit CentralOCDems.com.
Page 7 Foothills Sentry JUNE 2025 Visit Our Showroom 13031 Newport Ave. Suite 114, Tustin, CA FREE Estimate & 3D Drawing Financing Available o.a.c. 21 Months 0% Interest On Approved Credit www.CabinetFB.com Licensed and Insured (714) 422-4000 Assistance League of Orange hosted the Class of 2025 Scholarship Awardees at a luncheon, May 2. They celebrated the achievements of this year’s scholarship recipients, whose talents and dedication align with the core values of the organization. Students submitted comprehensive applications, including an essay, resume, transcripts and a letter of recommendation. The selection process was highly competitive, with a record 61 applicants. After thorough review, 25 high school seniors were awarded scholarships totaling $58,000. Samuel Mendoza, this year’s recipient of the Eugenia Love Arts Scholarship, spoke about the transformative impact of his mentor Michael Short, a local musical legend. As a participant in both band and choir, Samuel shared how music has enriched his life, and how he hopes to inspire future generations as he pursues a degree in music education. Emily Mercado recounted how backpacks and uniforms from Operation School Bell (an Assistance League philanthropy) during her earlier school years helped her feel a sense of belonging and boosted her self-esteem. Now, as a scholarship recipient, Emily described this moment as coming full circle, with the Assistance League once again supporting her as she heads off to college. The program is made possible through the work of the Scholarship Committee, co-chaired by Alice Prothero and Tanis Nelson, who devote countless hours to reviewing and ranking applications. For information about the philanthropies of the organization, see assistanceleague.org/orange. Scholarship recipient Emily Merado The 2025 scholarship awardees are, from left, front: Makayla Nguyen, Anya Chopra, Claire Elliott, Yadhyra Ramirez, Xochitl Carmona, Krystal Gonzalez, Briseyda Aguirre; back row, from left: Alina Casares, Gabriel Gomez, Ariana Kang, Henry Lloyd, Victoria Mendoza Malo Juvera, Gray De La Rivera, Daniel Salinas, Samuel Mendoza Rodriguez, Karelle Soriano, Diego Flores Vazquez, Teresa Ngo, Emily Merado and Cyra Tran. From left, Alice Prothero, Scholarships Co-Chair; Michael Short; Mike Escobedo, Advisory Council; and Tanis Nelson, Scholarships Co-chair Scholarship recipient Samuel Mendoza Rodriguez Assistance League of Orange celebrates scholarship awardees McPherson students excel in science competitions Nathan Lew's science project placed third in the "Product Science" category at the California State Science Fair held at California Lutheran University. Nathan Lew, an eighth grader, was one of two students from McPherson Magnet School to advance from the Orange County Science and Engineering Fair to the California State Science and Engineering Fair, where he competed against students from throughout the state. Nathan's project, “A Bubbly Concoction,” explored the effect different sugars (sucrose, glucose, fructose, maltose, steviol glycoside) have on carbonation levels in homemade ginger beer. His was one of 800 projects from throughout the state at this year's fair, and one of 27 projects in the Junior Division "Product Science" category. Two teams from McPherson Magnet School placed in the Science Olympiad, Air Trajectory Build at the California Regionals. JJ Sanchez, a seventh grader, and partner Oliver Walton, an eighth grade student, placed third; Nathan Lew and Damani Hadden, both eighth graders, took fifth place. Under the direction of coaches Bob and Karen Ashford, the students began planning and spending nights and weekends since early October to build a cannon that could be altered to accurately shoot a ping-pong ball at a target, with the coordinates speciThe Air Trajectory teams are, from left JJ Sanchez, Nathan Lew, Damani Hadden and Oliver Walton. fied only at the competition. The teams had to react quickly, and accurately compute and refine the trajectory to hit the coordinates. The Science Olympiad program has been in place for only four years at McPherson, led by science teacher Kayee Conrad. Nathan Lew at state competition
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