20 20 25 25 20 25
THE HOLOCAUST: ECHOES AND SHADOWS
16
SEPTE M BE R
7 p.m | Sala and Aron Samueli Holocaust Memorial Library, 4th Floor, Leatherby Libraries, Room 404
New Research on the Holocaust
Dr. Stefan Cristian Ionescu, Ph.D.
23
OC T O BE R
7:15 p.m. | Folino Theatre Dodge College of Film and Media Arts
6 N OVE M BE R
7 p.m. | Wallace All Faiths Chapel Fish Interfaith Center
Seating is limited. Registration required Priority to Members of the Rodgers Center for Holocaust Education.
To reserve your seat and register for parking, please visit events.Chapman.edu/93435
SCREENING OF AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARY The Commandant’s Shadow
Daniela Völker
Moderated by Vikki Katz, Ph.D.
Commemoration of Kristallnacht
Marion Ein Lewin
Ambassador Stuart Eizenstat
From the Publisher
The true measure of a community is found in its longevity. When people choose to stay, put down roots and inspire future generations to do the same, it speaks to something enduring and special. Orange is just such a place—a town where families settle in, and even those who leave often find themselves drawn back home.
You will see this sentiment illustrated in this issue, with stories of generations thriving here, such as the folks at Galla-Rini Roofing (p. 20). Founded in 1990 by Miles and Davese GallaRini, the business is being passed on to their daughter Mackenzi Moreno and her husband, Ivan.
Then on pg. 11, we meet Piero Graham and Sophia Ramirez, who have been selling in Plaza antique shops since their teen years. Now the duo owns two vintage clothing stores.
In our “Know the Neighbors” column (pg. 13), we feature Green Cheek Beer Company, which won “Best Brewery” in the 2025 Orange Chamber of Commerce’s Best of Orange contest. As it turns out, the Old Towne home of Green Cheek’s Co-founder Brian Rauso was the featured property back in our Jun/Jul 2004 edition.
Another common story you will hear from grateful residents of our unique community is how they visited and fell in love with Orange. Such is the case with this issue’s property subject (pgs. 16-19). Brandy Romero’s fondness for Old Towne started when she was a little girl visiting the antique shops with her mother. When she and her husband, Pablo, had a chance to move into the area in 2018, they jumped at the chance. Brandy went a step further when she started her popular, aptly named Instagram account, “There’s No Place Like Orange.”
Wishing you a wonderful autumn.
Sincerely,
Mike Escobedo
134 South Glassell St. / Orange, CA 92866
714 - 743 - 6919
Mike@OrangeReview.com
What’s Happ e ning .
SEPTEMBER 2025
Tue / Sep 9 / 5:30 - 7 pm
Orange Community Historical Society Free Public Program
“The Spooky Side of Old Towne Orange” Hear Orange’s historical paranormal tales. Orange Main Library: 407 East Chapman HistoricalOrange.org / 714-202-7570
Fri / Sep 12 / 7:30 pm
Musco Center Rufus Wainwright
One of the great male vocalist, songwriter & composers “Going to Town Solo Tour” 415 North Glassell St / 714-997-6812
MuscoCenter.org
Sat / Sep 13 / 10 am - 1 pm
Friends of Orange Public Library
Spring “Bag of Books” Sale Fill a bag with books for $5 Orange Main Library: 407 East Chapman 714-288-2424 / www.FOPLca.com
Sat / Sep 13 / 11 am - 3 pm
El Brewjo Burgers Old Towne Burger Fest
Five epic burger competitors, craft beers, live music by Thelma & Louise & more. Chapman Crafted: 123 North Cypress St www.facebook.com/elbrewjo
Sun / Sep 14 / Noon
Musco Center for the Arts
Heartbeat of Mexico
A Free Celebration of Mexican Heritage & Culture, with Music & Dance. 415 North Glassell St / 714-997-6812 MuscoCenter.org
Tue / Sep 16 / 7 pm
Chapman University, Rodgers Center New Research on the Holocaust
A review of the complex legacy & continuing debates with Dr. Ionescu. Leatherby Libraries 404 https://events.chapman.edu/93435
Tue / Sep 23 / 6 - 7:30 pm
Woman’s Club of Orange
New Member Interest Meeting
Meet new friends, while serving the community 121 South Center St / 714-836-5919 WomansClubOfOrange.org
Tue / Sep 30 / 8 - 9 am
Orange Chamber “Eggs & Issues”
Join this month’s special guest, OC Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento. Hotel Fera 100 The City Dr 714-538-3581 / OrangeChamber.com
Around the Plaza!
OCTOBER 2025
Thu / Oct 2 / 11:30 am
Chapman University
Town & Gown “Lunch at the Forum” “More than Meets the Eye” with Dr. Bruce Bales, Early Music Ensemble. Beckman Hall #404 One University Dr Chapman.edu/tg / 714-744-7608
Fri-Sat / Oct 3 - 4
Chapman University “Homecoming”
Celebrate & show your support for alumni, current students & community. One University Dr Homecoming.chapman.edu
Sat / Oct 4 / 9 am - 4 pm
Woman’s Club of Orange Holiday Boutique & Craft Fair
Crafts, Holiday & Home Decor, Jewelry, Clothing,Accessories, Food & more. 121 S. Center / WomansClubOfOrange.org
Wed - Sat / Oct 8 - 11
ALO Annual Boutique Noël
One-of-a-kind seasonal décor items, crafts, clothing, jewelry, gifts & more. 124 South Orange St / 714-532-5800 www.AssistanceLeague.org/orange
Fri - Sun / Oct 10 - 12
Holy Family Catholic School
Annual Holiday Boutique 40+ Vendors, Bake Sale, Poinsettia Orders, Raffle Baskets & more. 530 South Glassell St HolyFamilyK8.org / 714-277-9720
Sat / Oct 11 / 7:30 - 9 am
Love Orange “City-Wide Volunteer Day”
Sign-up, volunteer for a project, suggest a project, become a sponsor.
Orange High School 525 North Shaffer LoveOrange.org / 657-231-4900
Wed / Oct 15 / 4:45 - 8 pm
Orange Unified Public School Foundation Celebration of Schools “Pathways to Possibilities” highlighting the exceptional OUSD programs. Villa Park High School OUPSF.org/events/celebration
Fri / Oct 24 / 6 - 9:30 pm
Orange Chamber Foundation
Blood Orange Ball
Includes one food & one drink ticket, costume contest, dancing & scares. Woman’s Club 121 South Center St OrangeChamber.com/chamber-foundation
ONGOING
Every Fri / 9 - 11 am
Orange Home Grown Educational Farm
Volunteer Farm Friday 356 N Lemon / OrangeHomeGrown.org
Every Sat / 9 am - 1 pm
Orange Home Grown Farmers Market
Begin your day with fresh healthy foods. 303 W Palm / OrangeHomeGrown.org
2nd Sat / 9 - 11 am
Volunteer Opportunity
Santiago Creek Clean-Up
Join in to help keep the creek clean. SantiagoGreenway.org
3rd Sat / 7:30 pm
Naranjita Flamenco Tablao Flamenco
Performances by a rotating cast of artists. See ad on page 6. 301 East Katella Ave / 714-400-2939 NaranjitaFlamenco.com
2nd Mon / 7 - 9 pm
Orange Art Association General Meeting
Meet artists & view a fine selection of art. Community of Christ Church 395 Tustin St / OrangeArtAssociation.art
2nd & 4th Tue / 6 - 8 pm
City of Orange City Council Meeting
Keep informed about our city. Agendas available the prior Thursday. Orange City Hall: 300 E Chapman 714-744-2225 / CityOfOrange.org
134 South Glassell St. / Orange 92866
Publishing Team Sep/Oct 2025
Publisher Mike Escobedo MikeEsco@OrangeReview.com
Editor/Writer Julie Bawden-Davis Julie@JulieBawdenDavis.com
Writer Karen Anderson 123kKaren@earthlink.net
Writer Yuki Klotz-Burwell Klotz105@mail.chapman.edu
Writer Sheri Ledbetter SheriLedbetter@outlook.com
Writer Melissa Pinion-Whitt
AuthorMelissaWhitt@gmail.com
Writer Mary Platt Platt@chapman.edu
Writer Arely Valenzuela ArelyHernandez9895@gmail.com
Writer / Photographer Kristin Smetona info@SmetonaPhoto.com
Digital Artist Clyde San Juan CrookedTrails@hotmail.com
Web Developer Chase Higgins chasehiggins@me.com
Printed by Reed Printing Estella@reedprinting.com
Processed by Mailing Pros, Inc. MPI@MailingProsInc.com
Distributed by the US Postal Services www.usps.com
by Yuki Klotz-Burwell
Jalapeños Orange Circle
Jalapeños Orange Circle, a staple Mexican restaurant in Old Towne for more than 20 years, got a fresh start under new owners Eleni and John Gianakakos in May of last year.
Eleni has been in the restaurant industry since she was 12 years old, and is building upon the updates the previous proprietors made when they assumed ownership in 2023. They completed a remodel that made the space brighter and more colorful, as it’s known to customers today.
“The Plaza’s welcoming environment reminds me of the Chicago suburbs where I grew up,” says Eleni. “There’s a huge sense of community in here where everyone supports each other and you know your neighbors.”
One aspect Eleni has been focused on is upgrading the quality of ingredients, including the seafood. Jalapeños now sources its shrimp from the Gulf of Mexico, and the cod is from Alaska.
Diners can expect a full selection of classic Mexican dishes. One of the most popular items is the Old Towne Burrito, with asada, fries, guacamole, cheese and tomatoes.
Dimas Delgado, who has worked at Jalapenos for 11 years as a server, cashier and busser, says he’s excited about the restaurant’s continued growth.
New Beginni ngs
Fall brings new beginnings to Old Towne as the restaurant and retail scene continues to grow. From new ownership at established posts to brand-new businesses opening their doors, meet the entrepreneurs behind Jalapeños Orange Circle, Pierced. and Sweet Peach Vintage.
“We get a lot of compliments on how good the food is, which makes me very happy,” he says. “Eleni really cares for the business.”
For Delgado, providing excellent customer service goes hand in hand with serving high-quality food.
“You have to love what you do, and I love to interact with people,” he says. “The owners take care of me, and I work really hard for the business. I love being in customer
service, and because I have a passion for it, I can just be myself every day when I come to work.”
Eleni echoes this commitment to personal service.
“We want it to feel like a family here,” she says. “We like to get to know customers by name.”
Eleni and John draw on their decades of diverse restaurant experience in Southern California to guide their decisions. The
husband-and-wife team, along with their kids, have run Greek fine dining at Cafe Plaka in Fountain Valley, served comfort food at Fallbrook Cafe in Fallbrook, managed family dining at Johnathan’s in Fountain Valley, and operated the Golden Fire diner in Santa Ana.
“There are so many places to choose from in the Plaza, so we feel fortunate that customers choose to dine at Jalapeños,” says Eleni.
Jalapeños Orange Circle 154 North Glassell St. / 714-538-7328 / JalapenosOrangeCircle.com
538-8160
Eleni Gianakakos, who co-owns Jalapeños Orange Circle with her husband, John, showcases some of the restaurant’s favorites, including shrimp ceviche, a carne asada burrito and crispy beef tacos. A lifelong restaurateur since age 12, Eleni now runs Jalapeños with a family-first approach, joined by her husband and relatives.
New Beginnings
Pierced.
Lotte “Lyanne” Chapman started her body piercing journey when she was just 11 years old, piercing herself in her bathroom. She has now turned that passion into a career, and last October, opened her shop, Pierced., in the Plaza.
“We can do all types of piercings for clients, and I enjoy my job,” says Lyanne. “I love seeing people’s reactions when they get pierced, and it’s fun to be a part of their journey.”
Piercing herself quickly turned into piercing her friends, and in high school at El Modena, Lyanne had students lining up at lunchtime to get pierced by her.
“When I was 13, I got a piercing done that I couldn’t do myself, and the piercer was so charismatic and nice to me,” she says. “It clicked for me that I could do this as a job, and I decided that was what I was going to do with my life.”
When she was 16, a friend’s uncle started a piercing shop in the area and offered Lyanne a role as his apprentice. By the time she was 18, she was a pro.
Pierced.
After working as a piercer for years, Lyanne created TikTok videos to share piercing advice. Her videos caught the attention of the Master Tattoo Institute, a Miami-based online and in-person school offering tattooing and
115 West Maple Ave. / 714-262-0286 / www. PiercedOC .com
Lyanne, who has been piercing for more than 20 years, recently partnered with Payge to become her apprentice in their joint business venture.
piercing courses, and she was offered a teaching position.
“Hearing from students that I was a good teacher was a very rewarding and validating experience, and it made thoughts of starting my own piercing shop creep in,” says Lyanne. “It made
me think, ‘hey, I can do this.’”
So, near the end of 2024, Lyanne started Pierced. She was looking for a new role, and her aunt, Payge Chapman, wanted to get her start in the tattooing and piercing industry. Their grandfather, Tim Chapman, a long-time business owner who operates the behavioral health treatment center Chapman House, suggested the two pair up and supported them in getting the property.
“I have been dreaming of opening a business right here in Old Towne Orange for years,” says Payge. “Now, we have the opportunity to share our art with the community.”
The piercing shop has already been a stellar success, and Lyanne and Payge are opening a second piercing room to serve more customers.
“We’ve had the most amazing welcome experience from other business owners in Old Towne; it’s been a lot of fun,” says Lyanne. “I’m so thankful.” •
The owners of Pierced., Payge Chapman (left) and Lotte “Lyanne” Chapman, display some jewelry options in their piercing shop.
Sweet Peach Vintage
Less than a year since Nonahme Vintage opened in the Plaza, the owners have extended to open Sweet Peach Vintage, their partner store that exclusively sells women’s clothing. The shop, which opened in June where Renée Jewelers previously operated, is run by young couple Piero Graham and Sophia Ramirez.
“Although Nonahme is focused on men’s clothing, we kept having shoppers want more women’s clothing, and we couldn’t keep up with the demand with just one rack, so we decided to open up a store dedicated to just women’s clothing,” says Graham.
Sweet Peach Vintage mainly offers Y2K clothing, featuring styles that were popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
“Everything that was popular in the 2000s is becoming trendy for this new generation, so that’s our bread and butter of what we sell,” says Ramirez. “We have a lot of low-rise jeans, Juicy Couture, Coach and True Religion.”
The interior reflects this aesthetic, and Ramirez says she carefully curated a very feminine atmosphere with vintage Victoria’s Secret mannequins and Betty Boop posters.
“I’m excited for the Chapman students to get to know us and start shopping here,” she says. She hopes to make the space a welcoming destination where students can find unique pieces that express their personal style.
Ramirez and Graham source many pieces they sell in the store, but they also introduced seven permanent vendors who sell their thrifted items at Sweet Peach, like Lunaria Archives and Shop Girl World.
“We also have one rotating seller
each month because we wanted to create more opportunities for local vendors, especially younger vendors, to have a chance to sell here,” says Ramirez. “It’s hard to get into a lot of the antique stores in Orange these days, so this is a nice opportunity for local sellers
and to keep things fresh for the customers.”
Just a few months after opening, they already have goals of hosting community events, particularly those geared toward college students. Ramirez envisions opening up the space for kitschy crafting classes or shop-and-sip nights, and because Graham’s parents own local cafe L’Orange, the duo hopes to collaborate on coffeethemed events.
“There are a lot of Chapman students who move here from all over the country, and I want to be a community space for them,” says Ramirez. “We want to cater to them and build these relationships within our community for them and for us.”
Ramirez and Graham have been selling vintage items in Old Towne since they were 17 years old, and hope to continue building on the relationships and businesses they’ve established here.
“We love spending time here and growing the two businesses,” says Graham. “The neighbors and the whole community have always been so nice and welcoming. Everyone’s rooting for us.” •
Sweet Peach Vintage Owners Piero Graham and Sophia Ramirez relax among racks of thrifted finds in their new shop. The duo are no strangers to Old Towne’s vintage scene, having sold at Antique Depot and Orange Circle Antique Mall since their teen years.
Old Towne Orange P LAZA R EVIEW
by Sheri Ledbetter
of the Chamber’s Best 3
Best Brewery: Green Cheek Beer Company
In a nondescript warehouse tucked away on Batavia Street is Green Cheek Beer Company. What started eight years ago as a two-man operation with Cofounders Brian Rauso and Evan Price, has grown into a thriving enterprise with more than 100 employees across four Southern California locations. The company’s unusual name reflects the founders’ appreciation for local mystery and community connection.
“Green Cheek Parakeets have been in Southern California for a short time, but no one knows where they came from,” Rauso explains. “We wanted something that was unique to the local community but had a bit of myth and lore to it.”
Their philosophy centers on quality over quantity, embodied in their motto: “Better beer not more beer.” This approach drives their small-batch production model, creating three to four new beers weekly, with wines and seltzers adding to their ensemble.
“Evan is the artist—he creates the recipes,” says Rauso. “I am the business guy.”
The brewery has gained recognition for its West Coast IPAs, using specialty hops from New Zealand and Washington. Their Lavender Lemonade Seltzer has achieved success and is now served at Disneyland. Rather than pursuing mass distribution, Green Cheek maintains exclusivity through direct sales and limited restaurant partnerships.
You’re never going to find our beer in a big chain,” Rauso emphasizes. “We want you to taste our fresh beer the way it is meant to be served.”
In this installment of Know the Neighbors, we take a look at a few of the Orange Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 “Best of Orange” recipients. These are businesses or individuals recognized for being standouts from across the city. Best of Orange voters picked Green Cheek Beer Company as Best Brewery, Shannon Family Mortuary as Best Funeral Home and Angelyn Catale-Wojdat as Best Realtor.
“Community support has always been a part of our philosophy,” says Brian Rauso (right) with Co-founder Evan Price at their Orange headquarters and brewery, which hosts bingo nights every second Wednesday —open to the public—with proceeds going to the Orange Chamber Foundation.
The company’s apprenticeship approach to brewing reflects its commitment to craft tradition.
“This is old world learning,” Rauso says, noting that former brewers have gone on to prestigious positions at Russian River Brewery or started their own operations.
The Orange location serves as corporate headquarters (and brewery) with their restaurant locations in Sunset Beach, Oceanside and Costa Mesa. Community involvement runs deep in Green Cheek’s business philosophy.
It’s true that you should be a part of how you want your community to be,” says Rauso.
Green Cheek actively supports local organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce, Orange Foundation and various community events.
“I definitely think Green Cheek was recognized in part for their sponsorships, generosity and donations for events within the community—they are well known for it,” says Connie Benson, who serves with Rauso on the Orange
Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “And their products are amazing. I think their seltzers are delicious. They are creative with their marketing and just good at what they do.”
Winning “Best in Orange” in the Brewery and Winery category validates their community-focused approach.
“We have always tried to help the Orange community as much as we can,” Rauso says. “Winning this award is a validation of the community looking at us and saying, ‘thank you.’”
Green Cheek Beer Company
2294 North Batavia St., Suite C / 714-998-8172 / www. GreenCheekBeer .com
Steve & Ruthe Shafer
The Chamber’s Best
Best Funeral Home: Shannon Family Mortuary
Shannon Family Mortuary, founded in 1933 by Ralph Shannon, now thrives under the caring stewardship of husbandand-wife team Charles and Julie Link, maintaining its commitment to personalized, family-owned service in an industry increasingly dominated by corporate chains.
“It’s very important to us to remain family owned because we can cater to families’ personal needs and we can keep our prices down,” explains Charles, who began working for Shannon in 2011.
Julie joined the business bringing an entrepreneurial spirit and deep empathy for grieving families. Her journey into funeral service began when Charles asked the Shannons to bring Julie in to assist on a funeral.
“Families were hugging me that didn’t even know me just for delivering flowers. It felt good and purposeful,” Julie recalls. “It just kind of snowballed into me becoming a licensed funeral director in the State of California.”
The mortuary offers comprehensive services, including cremation, burial, viewings and religious ceremonies, with particular expertise in Catholic services.
“We can accommodate all kinds of requests from families,” Julie notes. “A loved one may pass somewhere
Shannon Family Mortuary
1005 East
else but wishes for their remains to be in Orange. We handle those logistics.”
Mayra Soto has known the Links for a long time and has used the mortuary several times in the past five years.
“I highly recommend them. Their service is exceptional,” says Soto. “They are very caring and compassionate. You feel like it’s family taking care of family during
Owners Charles and Julie Link felt it important to keep Shannon Family Mortuary in Orange, even purchasing a nearby home so they could be close when families need them. Shown here (from left) is the team: Pete Julienne, Service Director; Cynthia Rodriguez, Funeral Arranger; Julie Link, Funeral Director; Charles Link, Service Director (and Julie’s husband); Diana Millan, Arranger and Salina Miller, Advanced Planning Specialist and Chamber Ambassador of the Year.
from home.
Despite these trends, their core mission remains unchanged.
“We are there for the family members who are going through the worst time in their lives,” Julie explains. “It really does make us get out of bed every morning knowing we are going to help someone.”
The emotional weight of their profession requires careful balance.
“Everyone who works here is pretty much an empath, so you do take on some of the grief at times and you do cry with the families,” Julie acknowledges.
one of the most difficult times of your life.”
In recent years, the Links have observed increased price shopping among families and a shift toward cremation services, now comprising 60-70 percent of their business compared to 50 percent a decade ago. COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of online arrangements, with many families now choosing to complete funeral planning
Their team, including bilingual Spanish-speaking staff, supports each other through the emotional demands of serving grieving families.
Recognition as “Best in Orange” validates their approach. “We have an amazing team here,” says Julie. “They—and the community—are the reason we won.”
Looking ahead, the Links hope to continue serving Orange for another two decades while preserving the Shannon tradition.
“Our purpose in life is to serve the families in the community,” says Julie.
Angelyn “Angie” Catale-Wojdat’s journey to becoming Orange’s Best Realtor began with a simple favor more than 20 years ago. When her boyfriend’s grandmother, a ReMax broker, needed an assistant to answer phones, CataleWojdat discovered her calling.
“I fell in love with it, and I’ve been doing it ever since,” says the Orange-raised Realtor, who now calls a 102-year-old house in Old Towne Orange home.
Raised across from what was then Chapman College, CataleWodjat was recently honored as Best in Orange – Realtor.
“I love everything about being a Realtor,” says Catale-Wojdat, who is with Lionheart Pride. “It’s different every day. Every transaction is different. Every client is different. Whether helping sellers or first-time buyers, the moment of handing them a check or handing them keys is really rewarding.”
“She is as good or better than any Realtor in the City of Orange,” says Mike Yablonka, part-owner of Wheel Warehouse, which also won Best in Orange for Auto Services this year.
Yablonka has known CataleWodjat for some 15 years, and they served together on the Orange Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors together for six years. She was Yablonka’s agent for both buying and selling.
“She sold my house in one weekend and went through the trenches with me for a year and a half in buying a house,” says Yablonka. “She was tenacious and maintained a positive attitude throughout the process.”
Catale-Wojdat’s longevity in the business has allowed her to witness families grow. She has sold larger homes to clients who started with no children and now have several, and helped empty nesters downsize after their children left home.
“All my clients have become my friends,” Catale-Wojdat says.
“I still have clients from 20 years ago,” she notes, understanding that for most people, their home represents their biggest investment.
Catale-Wojdat has also observed design trends throughout her career.
“Gray is out, and colors are back in,” she says. “Wallpaper has made a huge comeback, and open concepts are giving way to divided spaces again, with people wanting privacy and functionality.”
Old Towne Orange remains somewhat immune to trends, she observes. “Those homes have those beautiful historic floors and they never go out of style.”
When Lionheart Pride won Best Brokerage in Orange and Catale-Wojdat won Best Realtor, she was stunned.
“I didn’t even think I would be in the running,” she admits. “It felt amazing.”
Her love for Orange extends beyond real estate. As chairperson of the Orange Chamber of Commerce Foundation, she’s passionate about giving back to underprivileged youth. The foundation recently took over the May Parade, with 2026’s theme being “Once Upon a Time in Orange –Where Stories Come to Life.”
“My favorite thing about Orange is the community—100percent, hands down,” she says. “I can’t walk around the Plaza without running into someone I know.” •
1107 East Chapman Ave #100 714-702-4119
www. LionheartPride .com
Best Realtor: Angelyn “Angie” Catale-Wojdat
Best Realtor: Angelyn Catale-Wojdat
Realtor Angelyn “Angie” Catale-Wojdat is manager of the agents at Lionheart office, which also won Best Brokerage in Orange.
There’s No Place Like Orange
There’s no place like Orange for Brandy Romero, whose popular Instagram account of the same name keeps more than 49,000 followers informed about anything and everything to do with Orange.
When Brandy launched her “There’s No Place Like Orange” account almost three years ago, her goal was to help support the
local community, small businesses and residents. Since then, she’s taken her volunteerism to the next level by raising much-needed funds for beloved annual events like the upcoming 30thannual “Treats in the Streets” in the wake of budget cuts by the City.
“When the City canceled it last year, it felt like such a loss,”
says Brandy.
“With the support of OTPA, we worked to raise $40,000 in five weeks and put it on as a private event with about 12,000 people attending. We are saving it again this year with a new fundraising effort and are partnering with the Orange International Street Fair. We are hoping to see all the non-
Written by Karen Anderson
profit booths come back, along with a parade and a Halloween stage.” Whether raising funds for Treats in the Streets and the Christmas tree lighting ceremony or facilitating $75,000 worth of Starlink equipment for Orange firefighters, Brandy finds way to promote the local community and keep the traditions going.
Brandy and Pablo Romero’s vintage home in Orange was built in 1956. Brandy’s volunteerism in the community helps raise funds for local events like the annual Halloween “Treats in the Streets” in Old Towne.
Her business acumen comes from working for her family’s packaging company, OEM Materials and Supplies. Founded by her mother, the company has been nominated best family-owned small business in Orange County for four consecutive years by Orange County Business Journal. Brandy has been doing outside
sales for 17 years.
“I love it,” she says. “I can work from anywhere, including here at our home in Orange.”
Brandy’s love of Old Towne began when she was a little girl.
Raised in Costa Mesa, Brandy recalls the countless times she and her mother would go antique shopping in the Plaza when she was
growing up. With close relatives living nearby, she always felt a kinship with Orange and dreamed of someday living here.
That dream came true in 2018, when she and her husband, Pablo, relocated from Los Angeles after purchasing a vintage 1956 home in the Cambridge and Walnut tract.
“I called it the Christmas House
because it was painted green with red shutters,” says Brandy, who was pregnant with their second child at the time. “It looked like something Snow White lived in.”
According to Brandy, the home’s original owner occupied it for decades until a transitional owner sold the property to a flipper in 2012. The flipper’s remodeling effort left much to be desired.
Photos by Andy Diaz : AndyDiaz.wixsite.com/mysite
The family dinner table was purchased at an estate sale in Orange. The chandelier, circa 1910, came from Muff’s Antiques in the Plaza.
This china hutch is one of many antique pieces throughout their home. It came from an estate sale in Old Towne Orange.
Pablo’s pumpkin collection is on display on the couple’s front porch, where they take family portraits every year on Halloween.
There’s No Place Like Orange
“The flipper who bought the house did a terrible job,” she says. “Everything was done really cheaply. Half of his lousy cabinets were falling off. The original plumbing and electrical also had issues.”
Enter Brandy’s father and stepfather. Licensed contractors, they gutted the kitchen, installed kid-proof vinyl flooring, painted the exterior white, re-did the backyard and built a porch.
“They are very talented and did the entire remodel project in three months,” says Brandy. “They even built a white picket fence that surrounds our updated landscaping where we planted beautiful roses. It was all completed by the time our second child arrived.”
The couple describes their interior design choices as a combination of Jane Austen, haunted mansion, New Orleans, Victorian and nerd. An accomplished artist and oil painter, Brandy attended art school in San Francisco, and then lived in West Hollywood for 12 years to pursue a career in art. She met Pablo in West Hollywood when he was managing Golden Apple Comics, one of the oldest comic-book shops in the country.
“She came into the store for her friend’s comic book signing,” recalls Pablo, originally from New Orleans. “She was a fan of the movie ‘Hook,’ and I just happened to be holding the Hook comic book when we first met. She wanted to buy it, so I challenged her to a trivia
contest. When she came back a week later, she had memorized every Hook fact she could find.”
A content creator and stay-athome dad, Pablo assists Brandy with her community pursuits. Because she spearheads so many local fundraising projects, she decided to open a brick-and-mortar store to elevate the cause. Located at 80 Plaza Square next to the Wells Fargo building, her “There’s No Place Like Orange” store features souvenirs, home goods, beauty products, apparel and more, all devoted to Orange.
Brandy splits the space—which they call “The Squeeze”—with Johana Marin, whose “CasaLulo” screen-printing service offers printed T-shirts and apparel designed and printed right in the shop. More than a thousand people showed up to the grand opening in April. Together they have raised $10,000 for the Orange City Firefighter Foundation selling custom sweatshirts. Several local organizations have held fundraisers at The Squeeze, including The Orange Public Library Foundation
“Everyone is so supportive of what we are trying to do with the store,” says Brandy. “It really is a testament to the people of Orange. The community shows up in droves.”
With her husband and friends helping to run the store, Brandy is raising funds to support the local events they are trying to save, including movies in the park and the 2025 Christmas tree-lighting ceremony.
One of four winners of this year’s Woman of Impact Award from New York Life of Orange County, Brandy has become a difference maker in Orange. Having watched every city council meeting for the last two-and-half years, Brandy recently announced her candidacy for City Council in 2026 to replace incumbent Arianna Barrios, who terms-out next year.
“It does not escape me how blessed we are to live in this close-knit community of Orange and to be able to give back,” says Brandy. “There are so many things to love about living here. It’s absolutely true, there’s no place like Orange.” •
View Mayor Slater’s “City Council Meeting Highlights”
The Romero’s open-concept kitchen is the perfect gathering spot to enjoy some homemade pumpkin pie.
In the spacious backyard, the Romero kids play a candy-corn ring toss game for Halloween.
Annual Halloween decor in the family room includes pillows purchased at the Assistance League Boutique Noel in Orange. Created from an old trunk, the coffee table came from an estate sale in Old Towne. On the wall are sculptures Pablo obtain from his hometown of New Orleans.
Building Character
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Brian Alters, PhD, FAAAS
by Julie Bawden-Davis
When it comes to teaching science classes, many educators find it challenging to hold students’ attention. That hasn’t been the case for Brian Alters.
Known for his ability to spark curiosity and keep students engaged, Chapman University’s Professor of Education, Attallah College of Educational Studies, and Schmid College of Science and Technology is a popular teacher. His success comes from a creative approach to teaching—making his classes not only informative but also fun and memorable.
“In my 30+ years of university teaching, Brian is by far the best university teacher with whom I have worked,” says Dawn Hunter, PhD, Professor Emerita of Education Attallah College of Educational Studies at Chapman University. “Many students enter science classes with negative experiences, and Brian helps them see that science can be interesting, relevant and important to their lives. His presentation style is informative, engaging, fast paced, and highly entertaining,” says Hunter, noting he has won numerous teaching awards at every university where he has taught.
“At Chapman, he received the highest teaching award and an honor for pedagogical innovation for his Darwin and Disney course—probably the most popular class at the university,” she says, referring to the course, “The Pursuit of Happiness and Knowledge: Charles Darwin & Walt Disney.”
Darwin and Disney
“When I was hired at Chapman in 2010, I asked then Chancellor Danielle Struppa what I could do for him. He responded by asking me to teach a class for undergraduates,” says Alters, who holds simultaneous appointments at Chapman and Harvard. “After some thought, I decided to create a class around two of my favorite people academically—Charles Darwin and Walt Disney.”
The Romero’s charmingly renovated kitchen features a farmhouse sink where they used to bathe their two children when they were babies. The renovation was done by Brandy’s father and stepfather, who live nearby and are licensed contractors.
T ALK O F T HE T OWNE
by Arely Valenzuela
As Orange County braces for another rainy season, one local family business has been maintaining roofs, and peace of mind, for more than three decades. Based in the City of Orange, Galla-Rini Roofin g, Inc. has built its reputation not through taking shortcuts, but through honest work and generations of trust.
Family-owned since 1990, Galla-Rini Roofing specializes in residential and commercial roofing, helping homeowners and businesses avoid costly surprises when the first big storm rolls in. With a blend of old-fashioned craftsmanship and modern roofing techniques, Galla-Rini has become a name synonymous with reliability across Orange County.
“A wise man does his roof in the summer,” says Founder and Owner Miles Galla-Rini. His philosophy is simple: businesses and homeowners should catch the problems early. That is why Galla-Rini Roofing offers annual roof check-ups to homeowners, where they inspect and advise according to needs—which is the kind of care you only get from a neighbor.
This family-first mindset isn’t just how Galla-Rini Roofing serves its customers, it’s how the business was built. Miles founded the company alongside his wife, Davese, who has been by his side every step of the way, working for the company in its earliest stages. What began as a small operation of husband and wife grew to be one of Orange County’s most trusted roofing companies, thanks to shared commitment to quality and honesty.
Today, the Galla-Rinis are proud to have the next generation work alongside them. Their daughter Mackenzi Moreno and her husband, Ivan, are stepping into the roles once filled by Miles and Davese, with Ivan in the field and Mackenzi heading the office. For customers, that means more skilled roofing, excellent customer service, and assurance that the company’s values of honesty, craftsmanship and community will continue for years to come.
“My father built this company with unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to doing right by every homeowner he serves,” says Mackenzi.
As the office manager at Galla-Rini Roofing, Mackenzi has found the perfect balance between work and family. With Ivan working alongside her, the business truly has become a family affair. What makes it all the more special is her children being able to spend time with their grandparents Miles and Davese, allowing them to grow up surrounded by the warmth of their relatives and the rhythm of the family trade. For Mackenzi, it’s not just about managing the office, but about cherishing the chance to be with her loved ones every day, building a legacy together.
Local Pastor Tom Long has been trusting Galla-Rini Roofing for more than 30 years, not only for his church, but also for his personal residence. That trust in Miles and the company has led him to refer Galla-Rini to many people throughout the years.
“Miles makes sure you are absolutely satisfied as a customer,” says Long. “I stake my own reputation upon him.”
That reputation comes not only from reliability, but from a wide range of services. From repairs and commercial coatings to specialized work like tile relays and hot mop roofs, Galla-Rini Roofing offers both cost-effective and practical solutions that businesses and homeowners can rely on.
Summer may be almost over, but it’s not too late to think ahead about your home safety and security. You can go to GallaRiniRoofin g.com to request a consultation on new roofs or roof repair, or follow the Galla-Rini Roofing family on Instagram at @GallaRini_Roofin g to catch glimpses of the beautiful work they do across Orange County.
“Let us help keep your home safe, dry and protected just like Dad has always done,” says Mackenzi. •
Matt Parlow Leads
As a baseball fan and expert in sports law, Matt Parlow sees more than just nine players on a field and 25 players in the dugout when he watches a game. He draws parallels between the teamwork that happens on that magical diamond with his role as a leader and in life.
“It’s the entire team, the trainers, the managers, the coaches, the front office staff—all those who help to create the environment for that team to be successful on the playing field,” he says.
This philosophy has shaped his success as an attorney, law professor and college administrator—and now guides him as the 14th president of Chapman University, a role he assumed on September 2.
“To be president and help lead this community forward is the honor of a lifetime,” says Parlow. “When I come to work every day, I feel at home. My soul comes alive when I’m here and when I interact with my colleagues.”
A native of Los Angeles and the son of two elementary school teachers, Parlow found himself drawn to a career in law because he saw it as a way to make change, protect rights and pursue justice. He earned his undergraduate degree in history from Loyola Marymount University and a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School. During his law school years, he served as a legal intern in the White House’s Office of the Legal Counsel.
It was Yale University Professor Bill Eskridge Jr. who encouraged him to turn his passion for law into a teaching career. After practicing law with prominent Los Angeles firm Manatt, Phelps and Phillips from 2000 to 2003, he transitioned to a career in higher education. There, Parlow found a new calling.
“The thing that has brought me the most professional fulfill-
ment in my life is trying to make an impact in the lives of students,” says Parlow, who taught at Whittier Law School in 2004 before coming to Chapman in 2005.
“To be president and help lead this community forward is the honor of a lifetime. When I come to work every day, I feel at home. My soul comes alive when I’m here and when I interact with my colleagues.”
Matt Parlow , Chapman University President
In 2008, Parlow moved across the country to Marquette University Law School in Milwaukee, where he eventually became the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Professor of Law. He helped improve the school’s skills-based course selection and employment ranking, and taught property, land use and sports law. One of his sports law courses he co-taught with Major League Baseball Commissioner Emeritus Bud Selig.
After eight years, Parlow returned with his family to California to teach at Chapman’s Fowler School of Law. He became dean in 2016.
“In the law school, we recruited our strongest ever classes, improved our student outcomes, and boosted our national ranking by more than 20 spots,” Parlow says.
And just five years later, another opportunity arose when Chapman’s executive vice president, chief advancement officer position opened.
Former President Daniele Struppa asked Parlow to fill that role. Parlow also served as Parker S. Kennedy Chair in Law at Chapman.
His experience in leadership and fundraising in his previous roles contributed to his success.
Parlow helped elevate Chapman into becoming one of the nation’s
Chapman University into Prosperous Future
elite academic universities. He took on Chapman’s ambitious fundraising campaign “Inspire: The Campaign for Chapman University,” which aims to raise $500 million by 2028 to support student success, enhance academic programs and improve facilities.
Chapman had already raised more than $406 million by August.
Struppa, who announced his retirement in May 2024, considers Parlow the right choice to lead the university.
“Matt is a fantastic fundraiser, a person of great integrity, and a passionate believer in the mission of education,” Struppa says. “Those qualities will ensure he will not only grow the financial strength of the institution, but he will do so in ways consistent with Chapman’s ethos, and with our mission.”
Parlow hopes to build on Struppa’s legacy, expanding Chapman’s growth as a research institution and giving ample opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students to get into labs. The learning experience will continue to grow for students, positioning them for successful careers or continuation into graduate education.
Chapman’s new president wants to be a bridge builder and convener when it comes to his relationships with business, civic and community leaders in advancing Chapman’s mission.
“Part of my leadership style is breaking down silos and encouraging collaboration, looking for interdisciplinary opportunities,” he says.
One of the most important lessons Parlow says he has learned during his career is how to keep things in perspective. He battled cancer while working as a clerk with Judge Pamela Ann Rymer with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit 20 years ago. Rymer herself eventually succumbed to the disease in 2011, but he remembers how kind and empathetic she was during his battle.
“Just keeping things in perspective has really helped me as I have been preparing to take on this role. In life, there are crises and then there are true crises. When you face the prospect of your own mortality, it helps you keep other things that are stressful or chaotic in perspective,” he says.
The demographic cliff and the use of artificial intelligence are issues Parlow says he is prepared to address at Chapman. And he plans to work daily to ensure Chapman is viewed as a model university for welcoming students from all different backgrounds.
“I hope to continue Chapman’s long legacy of providing distinctive personalized education. President Emeritus Jim Doti and President Daniele Struppa did an incredible job elevating the university during their presidencies. We have a tremendous opportunity to carry that momentum forward.” •
Celebrating Japan’s Lively 19th Century Dining Scene
What did “going out” look like in Edo—19th century Tokyo— before food blogs and Instagram?
The Hilbert Museum of California Art at Chapman University answers that question, plating up a feast of rare ukiyo e woodblock prints in “Famous Restaurants of Edo: Japanese Ukiyo-e Prints from Mie Gallery,” on view through February 15, 2026. Drawn from the Mie Gallery collection and curated by gallery owner Richard Parr, the exhibition explores how Japan’s top printmakers captured the glamour, tastes and social theater of the city’s most celebrated eateries.
The show gathers 23 prints by five masters—Utagawa Hiroshige, Toyohara Kunichika, Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Tsukioka Yoshitoshi and Utagawa Kunisada—united by a single, delicious theme: restaurants as cultural stages. These images sometimes functioned as refined advertisements, pairing views of dining rooms and riverside terraces with portraits of fashionable beauties or star kabuki actors, who lent cachet to the establishments they frequented.
“These prints are the 19th
century equivalent of destination dining features,” says Richard Parr, owner of Mie Gallery and curator of the exhibition. “Restaurateurs in Edo understood the power of images and commissioned artists to show not just their food, but the atmosphere—the rooms, the gardens, the river light—and the famous faces who came to see and be seen.”
Highlights of the exhibition include collaborative prints from “Famous Restaurants of the Eastern Capital” (1852–53), a series designed jointly by Kunisada (figures) and Hiroshige (landscapes). In these dynamic compositions, a charismatic kabuki actor commands the foreground while an inset vista locates the restaurant —sometimes with remarkable topographical specificity—just beyond. The pairing is both star power and sense of place, a clever formula that made the series a hit for Edo viewers and a touchstone for today’s collectors.
Another standout thread is Toyohara Kunichika’s late Edo and early Meiji sequences—such as the “Thirty Six Famous Edo
Restaurants” and “Thirty Six Modern Restaurants” (1878)— where impeccably dressed geisha beauties mingle with crisp architectural details that reveal interior layouts, screens, lanterns and signage. These prints show how swiftly Western perspective entered Japanese image making, even as subjects remained rooted in urban leisure. Hiroshige’s own “Famous
Restaurants in Edo” (c. 1838–40) contributes lyrical cityscapes populated by ordinary diners, a reminder that the “floating world” included families as well as fashion plates.
The engaging print shown on the inside front cover of this issue of the Plaza Review was created by Kunichika from his 1878 series “Thirty-Six Famous Edo
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) Uoju Restaurant in Miyoshimachi
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) Shimayaso Restaurant at Shitaya Hirokoji
at the Hilbert Museum
Restaurants.” The view shows the Western way of dining, with an English-style table and chairs, that so fascinated the city at the time. Springtime flowers are in bloom as two well-known geisha—their names are in the small rectangular cartouches near them—relax at the table on the restaurant’s balcony. Potential visitors to the restaurant could look at this print and take in the same view the women are enjoying, out over a peaceful lake or river and distant houses.
“What I love about this exhibition is how it widens the story of ukiyo-e beyond geisha and actors,” says Mary Platt, director of the Hilbert Museum. “You see the architecture, the neighborhoods, the bustle of evening arrivals, and the rituals of hospitality. These prints let you time travel into Edo’s dining culture—and they’re just gorgeous.”
Ukiyo-e literally means “pictures pleasure districts, theaters, teahouses and scenic spots that defined urban life in Edo. As Mie Gallery’s research notes, restaurant prints tapped that same current, serving both as artworks and aspirational guides. Patrons could recognize particular restaurants by their riverside views and lanterns; connoisseurs could name the actor or geisha on sight. The synergy of brand, celebrity and design feels strikingly modern—very much like today’s “influencer” culture.
Parr adds, “For visitors new to Japanese prints, the restaurant theme is an easy—and delightful— entry point. There’s humor, fashion, even a hint of foodie culture. Look closely and you’ll spot menus, specialty dishes and seasonal scenery that tell you when and why a place became famous.” •
The Hilbert Museum of California Art at Chapman University is located at 167 North Atchison St. in Old Towne, across from the train station. The museum is open Tue-Sat 10 am to 5 pm, and admission is free. To save time checking in, pre-register online at www. HilbertMuseum .org More information: 714-516-5880 during open hours.
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Brian Alters
Up until then, much of Alters career had been spent teaching science education with a focus in biological evolution. This included serving as an Expert Witness in what became the most significant U.S. federal trial on science education in the past two decades.
The historic case “Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District” in 2005 challenged a policy requiring biology teachers to present intelligent design as an alternative to evolution. Alters testified for the plaintiffs, arguing that intelligent design is poor pedagogy. The court ultimately ruled it a religious, not scientific, concept and declared its inclusion in public schools unconstitutional. The case brought Alters international recognition, leading to appearances on television and radio and frequent quotes in the press.
Alters, who grew up in Santa Ana and began visiting Disneyland as a child, always admired Walt Disney. He knew there was enough academic rigor surrounding Darwin to create his Darwin-Disney class, but he wasn’t sure about Disney, so he started reading about the creator of Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse. “I soon found out what an amazing American he was,” says Alters. “I believe he has been understudied and not as appreciated as he should be by academics.”
When he submitted the class to the registrar at Chapman, he was told new classes historically don’t get enough students, but they ended up needing to cap the class at 95 and had a waiting list. To date, he has taught the course to more than 3,000 students.
Jackson Njust, who graduated from Chapman in Spring 2025 with a degree in Business Administration, became a teaching assistant after taking Alters’ Darwin-Disney class.
“Dr. Alters is an excellent educator,” says Njust. “He made every class both informative and entertaining—and extremely funny. He practiced what I’d call ‘edu-tainment.’ His course was the best I took at Chapman, and I always left inspired to learn more about evolution and Disney. What stood out most was how he brought emotion into science. In his class, students laughed, sang, cried and cheered. I loved working as his TA because I could help share that experience with others.”
Science Education
Until his freshman year in high school, Alters planned on working as a Disney Imagineer, but then he saw a television show featuring Jacque Cousteau and decided to get a degree in marine biology. This led to him receiving a Bachelor of Science in Biology and PhD in Science Education from the University of Southern California (USC).
Upon graduating, his first academic position was teaching science education at Harvard, where he became increasingly involved in evolution education. “I got very lucky, because at that time there were many giants in the field of evolution and science education at Harvard, including well-known evolutionist Steven Jay Gould, who wrote the forward to one of my books, and Dr. Phil Sadler, who has taught and conducted science education research at Harvard for decades” he says.
“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Brian since his first days at Harvard, where we teamed up teaching a new crop of science teachers and dove into research together,” says Phil Sadler, Director, Science Education Department, Center for Astrophysics / Harvard & Smithsonian.
“From the start, Brian stood out—not just for his encyclopedic knowledge, but for the infectious energy he brought to everything he did,” says Sadler. “Our classes were often ‘over-the-top,’ with us role-playing scenarios to get students emotionally and intellectually engaged. His creativity never runs dry, and he’s always inventing clever ways to spark curiosity, whether through a hands-on demo or an outside-the-box project.
“Over the years, we’ve co-mentored PhD students and coauthored papers, but a highlight was the ‘Creationism in Schools’ Forum at Harvard—a standing-room-only event pitting science against pseudo-science. Brian took the stage with his trademark blend of sharp arguments and genuine respect, making evolution relatable and keeping the debate civil, lively and memorable.”
Brian Alters
While at Harvard, Alters decided he wanted the experience of teaching out of the country, so he took a position at McGill University in Montreal, spending 13 years there.
“It was a lovely experience with great opportunities,” says Alters, who held an $8 million Endowed Chair and Project in Science Education in the Faculty of Science at McGill.
After living through more than a decade in Canada’s cold winters, however, Alters became homesick. Given the fact that he was also flying back and forth throughout the year to go to Disneyland, he decided to return to Southern California to live near the “Happiest Place on Earth.” He moved to Newport Beach, where he lives with his wife Kimberly BeDell, and joined the Chapman faculty.
Current Focus on Disney
While Alters intends to continue to teach about Darwin and evolution, he has decided to spend the rest of his career focused on defending Walt Disney and his work.
“Charles Darwin’s work answers where we came from, which informs why we are here, which helps inform where we want to go in life; but Walt Disney’s work is equally important,” he says. “In my view, who else has created more entities to facilitate happiness globally than Disney? I call him ‘The Great Facilitator of Happiness.’”
As for Disney himself, “Many people don’t know he was a high school dropout, but at the young age of 37 he was awarded honorary degrees from Harvard, Yale and USC,” says Alters. “He possibly would have received more degrees than anyone, but graduation ceremonies and the related matters take a lot of time, and he needed to get back to work.”
To preserve and academically examine Disney’s legacy, Alters recently launched the Walt Disney Studies Think Tank—with the dream of creating the first Walt Disney Studies Center. His goal is to make Chapman a central hub for Disney scholarship, with research facilities, publications and educational programs that will inspire future generations.
“The university’s proximity to Anaheim’s Disneyland, Walt Disney Studios and Archives in Burbank, Walt Disney Imagineering in Glendale, the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco, and a large number of Disney Imagineers living in Orange County, makes Orange an ideal location. And we also have the fourth ranked film school in the nation,” says Alters. “This is the perfect location and time to honor Disney and his work.” •
Food Litracy for Life
Learning comes alive when students see the purpose behind it. When they understand not just the facts, but why they matter—and then apply that knowledge through hands-on experience—they gain skills that last a lifetime. That’s the promise of Orange Home Grow n’s (OHG) Youth Food Literacy Program .
Launched in 2017, the program gives local high school juniors and seniors a hands-on journey through the food cycle—from seed to table. Over nine months, students connect with farmers, chefs, dietitians and food scientists while gaining valuable tools to make informed choices about food, health and their future. Graduates leave with experience and connections, and even scholarships to support their next steps.
For Evan Bui, involvement in the program led to his current position at OHG as their Assistant Market Manager for the past three years.
“I found out about the OHG Youth Food Literacy Program through a friend and my two older brothers,” says Bui. “I was already interested in cooking and sustainability, so when I learned about the program’s focus on food systems, nutrition and hands-on experience, I knew I wanted to be part of it.”
The program was transformational for Bui because it made learning about food engaging and real. “We weren’t just learning facts—we were cooking, growing, visiting local farmers, and seeing how food connects to health and the environment,” he says. “I gained confidence in the kitchen and a bigger-picture view of where our food comes from and why that matters. It’s a great program because it empowers kids with knowledge and practical skills they can carry forward in life.”
This is exactly what the creators of the program intended, including Megan Penn, Co-Founder & Executive Director of OHG. “We strive to offer information and experiences regarding food that fill in the gaps as to what local high school students learn at school,” says Penn, who notes the program was originally made possible through a grant from the Picerne Family Foundation.
Open to El Modena and Orange High students, the Youth Food Literacy Program is free to attend and runs during the school year. There is a total of six, four-hour Saturday classes over six months and a graduation ceremony where students are presented with scholarships. Topics covered include the importance of seed saving and its effect on the food supply, visiting the OHG Education Farm, hearing from small farmers who sell at the weekly Farmers and Artisans Market, and learning from members of Chapman University’s Food Science Program. Students also visit and work with local restaurants, including Taqueria Mexico and O Sea. Another highlight is a trip to the 4th Street Market CulinaryLab in Santa Ana.
“We’ve had the privilege to work closely with Megan and OHG since before O SEA even opened,” says the restaurant’s owner, Mike Flynn. “Our organizations share a similar ethos: knowing where products come from, supporting a more food-secure world, and raising awareness of sustainable practices. The students are enthusiastic and ask the most thoughtful questions. I enjoy linking our responsible sourcing mission with the OHG program while giving students a tangible, real-world application of what they’ve learned.”
Now that he has come full circle, Bui finds sharing the Youth Food Literacy Program especially meaningful. “The program doesn’t just teach kids how to cook—it teaches them to care about their health, their communities, and the environment,” he says. “It’s an investment in the next generation of thoughtful, informed citizens, and I’m proud to be part of that mission.” •
Applications are being accepted until early October for the 2025-2026 Youth Food Literacy Program. Contact Megan Penn at Megan@OrangeHomeGrown.org for a link to the online application.
by Julie Bawden-Davis
Circle in the Square
Patty Bornho p ’s story in Orange began in 1992 when she and her husband, Andy, settled into their 1960s ranch home in the Presidential Tract. The couple raised three sons there and now enjoy life as proud grandparents, with one grandson toddling around and another on the way.
“I love that Orange is a good mix of gritty industrial, beautiful downtown, shopping and history,” says Bornhop. “My husband grew up here and remembers walking to see movies at what is now Sonlight.”
Semi-retired, Patty works parttime for Nifty Package Company, a boutique gift-wrapping and giftbasket business with even a few celebrity customers. She also serves
by Kristin Smetona
as Vote Center lead at the Orange Main Library, where she enjoys meeting neighbors.
“I love Orange!” Bornhop beams. “People stay or they come back. It’s amazing—generations are here. It gives the community depth and history.”
When she’s not creating Tiffanyperfect bows, Bornhop can be found in the garden—she tends colorful flowers while Andy focuses on vegetables.
As this month’s coupon winner, Patty chose L’Orange Caf é and immediately cashed it in for breakfast with her husband, complete with a fresh garden omelette. “I walked away full and happy!” she says. •
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ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES:
15 Antique Depot 16
155 South Glassell St (714) 516-1731
15 Antique Station 18 178 South Glassell St (714) 633-3934
1 Country Roads Antiques . . 26
216 West Chapman Ave (714) 532-3041
9 Orange Circle Antique Mall 24 118 S Glassell (714) 538-8160
16 Summerhill Ltd 25 110 S Glassell (714) 771-7782
ARTS & CULTURE:
21 Hilbert Museum of Calif Art 2 167 North Atchison St (714) 516-5880
27 Marinus Welman - Artist J www.MarinusWelman.com
5 Musco Center for the Arts 6 415 North Glassell St (844) 626-8726
6 Naranjita Flamenco E 301 East Katella Ave (714) 400-2939
AUTOMOTIVE:
14 Titan Automotive . . . . . . . . . L 939 West Chapman Ave (714) 997-2311
28 Villa Ford of Orange F 2550 North Tustin St (877) 585-3090
DINING & PUBS:
27 Café Zócalo 20 136 South Glassell St (714) 538-3764
15 O’Hara’s Pub 4 150 North Glassell St (714) 532-9264
7 Renata’s Cafe Italiano 11 227 East Chapman Ave (714) 771-4740
1 Rutabegorz Restaurant 5 264 North Glassell St (714) 633-3260
25 Wazabi Sushi 240 West Chapman #102 27 (714) 602-7375
EVENTS / ORGANIZATIONS:
11 ALOrange Boutique Noel 14 124 South Orange St AssistanceLeague.org/Orange
8 CFO Field of Valor K OrangeFieldOfValor.org (714) 288-9909
12 Haunted Orange County . . . 21 134 South Glassell St HauntedOC.com
4 Holocaust Education 7
One University Dr (714) 628-7377
8 OC Catholic Schools Holy Family 17
St. Norbert D
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25 Orange Farmers Market 303 West Palm Ave 1 www.OrangeHomegrown.org
22 WCO Holiday Boutique 13 121 South Center St (714) 836-5919
HEALTH, FITNESS & BEAUTY: 11 Better Way Fitness I 4398 East Chapman Ave (714) 716-2177
14 Circle City Barbers 3 133 West Chapman Ave (714) 453-9765
HEALTH, FITNESS & BEAUTY:
1 Orange Circle Optometry 10 227 East Chapman Ave (714) 538-6424
19 Restoration Dental Q 725 West LaVeta #200 (714) 400-0075
JEWELRY
16 Rambling Rose Jewelry 23 118 South Glassell St (714) 538-6305
REAL ESTATE:
17 Angie Catale & Rick Clark N Lionheart Pride Real Estate (714) 702-4119 (714) 225-5520
22 Caliber Real Estate Group 22 134 South Glassell St (714) 988-6339
10 Casa Blanca Realtors 8 291 North Glassell St (714) 744-5495
13 Jason Isley & Jason Rowland 9 Seven Gables Real Estate (714) 478-6750 (714) 904-4152
3 Lionheart Pride N (714) 745-7318 www.LionheartPride.com
1 OC Pro Property Manage B 202 West Lincoln Ave (714) 202-8100
1 Orange Realty . .
. . O 1537 East Chapman Ave (714) 997-0050
24 Real Estate Establishment 12 550 East Chapman Ave (714) 744-5711
SERVICES:
23 Blessings Senior Care C & G Three Orange Locations (877) 612-5477
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9 Expert Lamp Repair P 1630 W Chapman (714) 309-1562
15 Galla-Rini Roofing .com www.GallaRiniRoofing.com (714) 244-6567
10 Old Towne Healthcare (714) 494-4088 ivonne@oldtownehcs.com
13 Shafer Plumbing A 1307 West Trenton Ave (714) 974-9448
14 Shannon Family Mortuary . M 1005 East Chapman Ave (714) 771-1000
SPECIALTY RETAIL:
10 Army Navy Store 15 131 S Glassell (714) 639-7910
17 Big Y Yardage R 320 S Tustin St (714) 744-9052
9 Dessa’s Crossing (book) by Atanas Radenski Amazon.com/dp/B0F3PCPW1G
1 Full Circle Marketplace . . . 19 140 South Glassell St (909) 929-1390
20 Paris in a Cup .com www. ParisInACup.com (714) 538-9411
TOURISM:
16 Orangeland RV Park H 1600 West Struck Ave (714) 633-0414
Old Towne Orange P LAZA R EVIEW