From the Publisher 100

As we wind down a challenging year, I’m reminded that for many, the time spent in isolation earlier in the year highlighted the value of personal interaction with one another. Though we’ve been apart this year more than we’ve been together, it’s apparent as I look around Orange that community members have grown even closer.

With the holidays upon us, I encourage you to visit Old Towne to enjoy the camaraderie of seeing old friends and meeting new ones. The merchants in the Plaza could use our support this year. To check off your holiday shopping list, consider visiting the Plaza’s many friendly merchants for one-of-a-kind gifts. Once you’ve finished shopping, stop at one of our many restaurants for a hearty, satisfying meal.

In this issue, we look at the Plaza Review’s journey from a modest newsletter 19 years ago to the robust publication it is today. In the article, “Our 100th Edition” (pg. 14), we talk to community movers and shakers about the Plaza Review, such as former Orange Mayor Carolyn Cavecche, who reads each issue from cover to cover. “I get goosebumps when the Plaza Review gets delivered to me,” she says.

In these pages, meet Joseph Mahon and his new venture with Jaxon’s Scratch-Made Chix Tenders (pg. 10), the Army Navy Store (pg. 12) and Tiddleywinks Toys & Games (pg. 13). As usual, our Orange neighbors also share their talents, including Clyde San Juan (pg. 22) and Richard Turner (pg. 24), both of whom have released books.

As you check out this issue, you’ll notice that the people within these pages have big smiles for you. It’s all part of what makes the Orange community so friendly.

Wishing you and yours a joyful holiday

Sincerely,

Mike Escobedo