Since 2001
NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Old Towne Orange PLAZAREVIEW
From the Publisher As we look to toward a New Year filled with hopes and aspirations, my sincerest wish is that you and your loved ones enjoy a successful 2012. Within the pages of what is the 49th edition of the Old Towne Orange Plaza Review, I hope you find enlightenment and inspiration. In this issue, I enjoyed meeting the Roysters and touring their beautiful 1923 California bungalow. I was also impressed by the business accomplishments of Howard Roberts and Troy Bakken and heartened by their desire to become immersed in Old Towne. This edition features stories about individuals so dedicated to ensuring the integrity of our fine city that they give of their valuable time. Members of the OTPA, Historical Society and the Design Collaborative are admirable stewards to Orange, who help maintain the historical record and proper growth of this unique community. The first publication of the year introduces an ongoing “Have You Seen” column by renowned local historian Phil Brigandi, who will share stories about the many historical landmarks that helped to establish the City of Orange all those many years ago. I am honored as an artist to feature a recent iPad painting by internationally acclaimed artist David Hockney, who through his generosity helped to inspire an artist movement that thrives in our neighboring community of Santa Ana. I am also excited to feature an article on Exene of the band X, who has chosen Old Towne as her home. As you peruse these pages, enjoy yourself and know that I look forward to another exciting year sharing with you the many unique offerings and people that Old Towne has to offer. I feel an immense amount of gratitude for you, my loyal readers, and the wonderfully talented individuals who make the Plaza Review a reality. Sincerely, Mike Escobedo 134 South Glassell St. / Orange, CA 92866 714 - 771 - 6919 MikeEsco@OrangeReview.com
“ News For The Neighborhood ” Old Towne Orange Plaza Review © 2012 Mike Escobedo Design. All rights reserved. The material herein contained cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of Mike Escobedo Design.
Integrating b y K a re n A n d e r s o n
L
ocated above Francoli’s and Felix’s at 34 Plaza Square, Integrated Systems Solutions moved to Old Towne from its previous headquarters in Orange near Anita Drive in late 2010. With 14 employees, the firm specializes in accounting and distribution software for small to mid-sized companies. A former Old Towne resident who still lives in Orange, Founding Principal Howard Roberts helped launch the company in 1991. He says the new 3,500-square-foot historic offices are like a “second home.” “We really enjoy being in Old Towne because of the culture and activity here,” Howard said. “The unique, small-town atmosphere provides our employees the kind of working environment that builds creativity.” Restored and renovated several years ago, the historic space was originally a hotel in the late 1800s. Featuring original mould-
ings, baseboards, picture rails and Douglas fir flooring, the handsome interior includes nine individual offices converted from the hotel’s original rooms and suites. The reception area showcases a dramatic, mahogany counter and old-style mail slots. “When our clients come here, they are so taken aback by where we are located,” Howard said. “Our offices are fantastic. It’s just so different and unexpected.” The firm has added its own vintage touches to the premises, decorating the hallway with historic photos of Old Towne Orange, including a night scene of the international street fair in 1910. A certified public accountant, Howard ventured into the software side of the industry when he served as chief financial officer for a construction company. Combining his computer and accounting backgrounds, he
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O l d To w n e O r a n g e P L A Z A R E V I E W
