# theorangeindependent.com

> News from Orange, CA


## Posts

- [SPECIAL INTEREST MONEY SUPPORTING MEASURE K](https://theorangeindependent.com/special-interest-money-supporting-measure-k/): GUEST COLUMNIST Former Mayor Carolyn Cavecche If you are a City of Orange resident and use social media, most likely you have seen the slick, expensive ads running in support of Measure K.  Our small team of community members focused on making sure Measure K fails has been waiting for these to hit. Earlier in the month, the Mobile Home Park Owners Association spent $5,000 to run a poll to try and figure out how to convince voters this terrible ballot measure is a good thing.  Then two different people contacted me about an outside group fishing around Orange for […]
- [TESLA FLIES OFF 55 FREEWAY KILLING DRIVER](https://theorangeindependent.com/tesla-flies-off-55-freeway-killing-driver/): The driver of a Tesla was killed shortly before 2 a.m. after the car left the southbound 55 freeway at high speed and became airborne flying off the Chapman Avenue off ramp. The Tesla landed on its roof near the freeway onramp with the force of the impact causing the roof to be completely crushed. Orange Firefighters had to use the jaws of life to cut the doors off to access the interior of the car. Once inside, they determined the driver was deceased and was the only occupant. Officers from the Santa Ana office of the California Highway Patrol […]
- [SUSPECTED DRUNK DRIVER SLAMS INTO SPEED RADAR TRAILER](https://theorangeindependent.com/suspected-drunk-driver-slams-into-speed-radar-trailer/): A suspected drunk driver was arrested by Orange Police after he crashed his Tesla into a traffic speed radar warning trailer placed in the center median turn lane on La Veta Avenue near Flower Circle shortly before 2 a.m. Sunday morning. The City of Orange purchased several of these devices that use radar to detect vehicle speeds and display them, or flash “Slow Down”, to encourage voluntary compliance; they can also collect traffic data. They are educational traffic-calming tools rather than automated enforcement cameras.  The driver was given a field sobriety test and tested with a portable alcohol sensor device […]
- [CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY RANKS 100 IN  2027 U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT BEST NATIONAL UNIVERSITIES LIST](https://theorangeindependent.com/chapman-university-ranks-100-in-2027-u-s-news-world-report-best-national-universities-list/): Chapman University has achieved a historic milestone by entering the national rankings for the first time, landing at No. 100 in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report Best National Universities list. The recognition marks significant progress and motivates further advancement. The school also earned No. 39 for Best Undergraduate Teaching, highlighting its strong commitment to undergraduate education. Additional placements include No. 55 among Top Private Schools and No. 151 for Best Value, both reflecting academic quality. President Matt Parlow, the university’s 14th leader spoke to a crowd assembled during the recent Homecoming weekend. He reviewed past rankings and expressed […]
- [PLAZA MERCHANTS HIT BY SUDDEN INCREASE IN OUTDOOR DINING AREA FEES](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-raises-plaza-outdoor-dining-area-fees-with-no-notice-to-merchants/): Merchants in the Orange Plaza are reeling from an unannounced increase in fees they must pay to the city to maintain use of the small areas outside their businesses used for outdoor dining and seating. According to the owner of Two’s Company Cafe and Catering, the city raised her fee for the outdoor dining area in front of her shop from $1700 a year to $4000, an approximately 135% increase. The business owner, as well as other business owners said they received no notice from the city before receiving the bills. Across the Plaza from Two’s Company, the seating area […]
- [CITY TO HOST OPEN HOUSE TO DISCUSS ORANGE MALL SITE PLAN](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-to-host-open-house-to-discuss-orange-mall-site-plan/): The City of Orange’s Project Team will host a second Community Open House for the Meats to Heim Specific Plan on Thursday, Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church to learn about the Preferred Land Use Plan for the former mall property. The open house will feature a presentation of the current Preferred Plan, including its key components and how future land use will be regulated. According the the City of Orange, “The Meats to Heim Specific Plan will be a long-term plan to guide how the mall site is updated and redeveloped in the future, creating […]
- [CHAPMAN ALUMNA PRESUMED DEAD IN HELICOPTER CRASH](https://theorangeindependent.com/chapman-alumni-presumed-dead-in-helicopter/): An NBC Los Angles helicopter reporter and the pilot are presumed dead after a fiery crash while leaving the scene of a fatal bus accident in Chatsworth. Video from the helicopter as it left the bus crash scene showed the helicopter losing altitude and a warning horn sounding in the background. The video drops out likely due to the signal no longer reaching the TV station due to the low altitude. Ms. Moreno graduated Chapman University in Orange in 2010 and immediately began a career in TV news. The identity of the helicopter pilot has not been released. On a […]
- [MAN KILLED AT BAR ON CHAPMAN AVENUE](https://theorangeindependent.com/man-murdered-at-bar-on-chapman-avenue/): A man was killed at the Bikini in a Bottle Bar & Grill at 1535 W. Chapman Avenue in Orange during a fight with security around 11 p.m. Saturday night. Orange Police along with the Orange County Sheriffs Department Crime Lab and the Coroners Office were at the scene most of the night investigating the incident. According to a Press Release issued by Orange Police; Homicide Investigation— On September 12 at approximately 11:00 p.m., Orange Police Department officers responded to Bikini in a Bottle, located at 1535 W. Chapman Avenue, regarding an unconscious male in the parking lot. Officers found […]
- [ORANGE MAN SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS FOR MASSIVE HEALTH CARE FRAUD](https://theorangeindependent.com/orange-man-gets-30-years-for-massive-health-care-fraud/): An Orange man was sentenced today to 360 months in federal prison for masterminding a massive health care fraud scheme in which nearly $270 million in fraudulent claims were submitted to Medi-Cal over an 11-month span for expensive prescription drugs containing generic ingredients that were not medically necessary and, many times, were not provided to the purported recipients. Paul Richard Randall, 67, of Orange, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mark C. Scarsi, who also ordered him to pay $178,746,556 in restitution. Randall pleaded guilty on April 7 to one count of wire fraud committed while on release.  “This […]
- [RAMS OWNER STAN KROENKE BUYS THE ANGELS FOR REPORTED $4 BILLION](https://theorangeindependent.com/rams-owner-stan-kroenke-buys-the-angels-for-reported-4-billion/): The surprise announcement was made Tuesday morning by Kroenke Sports and Entertainment and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The sale of the team is expected to be completed in the first part of 2027, according to the press release. The sale is subject to the approval of Major League Baseball. Angels owner Arte Moreno bought the team in 2003 for $183 million. The Moreno family is expected to keep a minority stake in the team. “The Angels Organization is pleased to announce this transaction with Kroenke Sports & Entertainment,” Moreno said. “The Moreno Family has been honored to steward […]
- [FIRE DAMAGES LAB AT CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY](https://theorangeindependent.com/fire-damages-lab-at-chapman-university/): City of Orange Firefighters along with help from Anaheim Fire, and the Orange County Fire Authority, responded to a fire in a laboratory at Chapman University at 9:17 am Sunday morning. According to the limited information provided by the Orange Fire Department Public Information Officer after conferring with Chapman University management staff, the fire started in a lab at the Keck Center for Science and Engineering at 450 N. Center Street, and was contained by the buildings fire suppression systems. No questions from reporters about the incident were answered by the Public Information Officer. While the 2 alarm fire was […]
- [DISTRICT ATTORNEY SAYS HART PARK SHOOTING WAS SELF DEFENSE](https://theorangeindependent.com/district-attorney-says-hart-park-shooting-was-self-defense/): The Orange County District Attorneys Office dropped murder charges against 30 year old Pedro Ignacio Amarillas Lares, a parolee with an extensive criminal history who shot a man in crowded Hart Park on August 4th of this year. Investigators determined that the evidence showed that the shooting of 36-year-old Luis Alberto Cortes Mendoza was in self defense, and the case could not be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Amarillas Lares instead pled guilty to possession of a gun and ammunition by a felon and was sentenced to four years in prison by Orange County Superior Court Judge Michael Perez on […]
- [HIGH SPEED CRASH DAMAGES 4 HOMES](https://theorangeindependent.com/high-speed-crash-damages-4-homes/): An apparently very high speed crash involving a Tesla damaged at least 4 homes in East Orange and left the driver seriously injured shortly before Midnight Tuesday night. Orange Police dispatchers received several 911 calls reporting the crash in the area of 5944 E. Cadbury Drive in Orange. Arriving Officers found the injured man that was believed to be the driver lying near his car in the driveway of one home. Residents driven from bed by the loud crash left their homes to find what one woman described as looking like a “war zone” as debris was spread over a […]
- [MAN SHOT AND KILLED AT BUSY HART PARK](https://theorangeindependent.com/man-shot-and-killed-at-busy-hart-park/): Orange Police responded to a very busy Hart Park on S. Glassell around 6:30 p.m. Tuesday to reports of a shooting. Arriving officers found a man shot in the head under the roof of the picnic area. Paramedics from the City of Orange Fire Department pronounced the man dead at the scene. The park was extremely busy at the time of the shooting and Police were able to talk to a number of witnesses and develop a description and direction of travel for the suspect. A man believed to be the shooter was apprehended near the park at Olive St. […]
- [COUNCIL MEMBER ARIANNA BARRIOS ANNOUNCES RUN FOR MAYOR OF ORANGE](https://theorangeindependent.com/council-member-ariana-barrios-announces-run-for-mayor/): Orange native and current Council Member representing District 1, Arianna Barrios, has just announced she will be running for the office of Orange Mayor in this election cycle. She will face off against incumbent Mayor Dan Slater, who is running for re-election for his third and final term. Anyone watching the Tuesday, July 14, council meeting could discern a clear realignment among the current members. Barrios clearly hit a tipping point following the heated debate concerning the Chapman University PILOT program, which she addresses in her announcement below. Not to be overlooked was the lengthy exchange about making Orange a […]
- [SUSPECT ARRESTED AFTER 6 HOUR STAND OFF](https://theorangeindependent.com/suspect-arrested-after-6-hour-stand-off/): A man is in custody after a 6 hour stand off with Orange Police at an apartment at 1549 N. Highland Street in Orange. Police were called for some type of disturbance and according to several witnesses 6 shots were fired in the apartment as Police arrived. Numerous attempts were made to contact the man over 6 hour period but he ignored them. Police cleared dozens of frightened residents from neighboring apartments. The Orange Police Tactical Team arrived at the scene and repeatedly ordered the man to exit the apartment. Police attempted to get the mans attention by firing off […]
- [FIRE ON PALMYRA DISPLACES ELDERLY RESIDENT](https://theorangeindependent.com/fire-on-palmyra-displaces-elderly-resident/): City of Orange Firefighters along with Firefighters from the Orange County Fire Authority responded to a working fire in the garage and backyard of a house at 1847 W Palmyra Avenue around 11:24 pm on July 4th. Arriving Firefighters found fire in the garage of the house and a car on fire when they arrived. It took about 30 minute to completely knock the fire down. Fireworks may have been the cause but that remains under investigation. An elderly resident of the house escaped to the street and was uninjured.
- [FAMILY OF 6 ESCAPES EARLY MORNING FIRE](https://theorangeindependent.com/family-of-6-escapes-early-moring-fire/): A couple and 4 young children fled their home into the night air early Sunday morning after discovering their house was on fire. City of Orange Firefighters aided by Firefighters from the Orange County Fire Authority responded to the home at 2419 E Hoover Avenue around 1:20 AM and found smoke coming from the garage on their arrival. According to the Orange Fire Department, the homeowner told them he had disposed of used fireworks in a trash can and that may have been the cause. Orange Police were the first to arrive at the scene and quickly got the family […]
- [POPULAR L.A. BURGER RESTAURANT COMING TO OLD TOWNE ORANGE](https://theorangeindependent.com/popular-l-a-burger-restaurant-coming-to-old-towne-orange/): One of L.A.s most popular burger restaurants, Win-Dow Burgers is coming to the long vacant former radiator shop at Chapman Avenue and Lemon Street in the heart of Old Towne Orange. Win-Dow Burgers has a large following in Los Angeles and is known for not only its smash burgers but also for its fried chicken sandwiches, kale salads, grain bowls, and hand spun milkshakes. The owners are planning an outdoor garden space and a bar, with the goal of creating a unique new gathering place in Old Towne. This will be the first Orange County location for the company. The […]
- [FIREFIGHTERS STOP BRUSH FIRE AT SANTIAGO CANYON AND 241 TOLL ROAD](https://theorangeindependent.com/firefighters-stop-brush-fire-at-santiago-canyon-and-241-toll-road/): Approximately 50 Firefighters from the Orange County Fire Authority and several cities, including the City of Orange, stopped a brush fire that was spreading at the 241 Toll Road at Santiago Canyon Road. Early during the fire several spot fires started outside the main fire forcing fire crews to work quickly to stop the fire from spreading. Ground crews were aided by at least 2 water dropping helicopters and a hand crew in attacking the fire. It took over an hour to stop the progress of the fire and several more hours to mop up any hot spots. An OCFA […]
- [ONE ARRESTED AFTER FIGHT ENDS IN ALLEGED MURDER](https://theorangeindependent.com/one-arrested-after-fight-ends-in-alleged-murder/): One man is in custody for murder after an apparently wild fight on South Fashion Park in Orange around 10:30 p.m. Saturday night. According to an Orange Police Press Release; “On June 13, 2026, at approximately 10:28 p.m., the Orange Police Department received reports of a fight in the 600 block of South Fashion Park in the City of Orange. Before officers arrived, the suspect, 28-year-old Abrahan Perez of Orange, left the area in a vehicle. A short time later, Perez drove back toward the South Fashion Park address, maneuvered his vehicle onto a courtyard area in front of an […]
- [3 ALARM FIRE RIPS THROUGH PALLET YARD ON BATAVIA STREET](https://theorangeindependent.com/3-alarm-fire-rips-through-pallet-yard-on-batavia-street/): ACCORDING TO THE CITY OF ORANGE FIRE DEPARTMENT; “Shortly after 1:30 a.m., Orange City Fire Department responded to a commercial fire in the 2300 block of N. Batavia Street. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire conditions involving a large pallet yard with exposure threats to nearby commercial buildings. Due to the size and complexity of the incident, additional resources were requested, resulting in a 3-alarm response. Crews remain on scene conducting firefighting operations and extinguishing hot spots. Motorists are encouraged to avoid the area as operations continue. We appreciate the assistance of our mutual aid partners and Orange Police Department […]
- [AMERICA 250 TRAIN HEADS TO GRAND CANYON](https://theorangeindependent.com/america-250-train-heads-to-grand-canyon/): The Grand Canyon Railway and Hotels “America 250 Locomotive” took its first run to the Grand Canyon and back to Williams, Arizona Friday June 5. The design the locomotive celebrates the 250th birthday of America and was done in conjunction with the United States Department of Transportation to inspire Americans and visitors to explore America “from sea to shining sea.” The locomotive will make daily runs to the Grand Canyon and back. It can be viewed leaving every morning and returning every evening at the depot in Williams.  The Grand Canyon Railway is offering special “Celebrate America’s 250th” rates that […]
- [ORANGE CITY COUNCIL APPROVES 1 CENT TAX INCREASE BALLOT MEASURE](https://theorangeindependent.com/orange-city-council-approves-1-cent-tax-increase-ballot-measure/): In a special meeting Wednesday night June 3, the Orange City Council voted 5 to 1 to place an initiative on the November 2026 ballot to increase the sales tax by 1 cent for purchases in the City of Orange. The tax increase would be in effect for 13 years, unless repealed or extended by the voters in a separate initiative. Mayor Pro Tem Denis Bilodeau was the sole no vote. Council Member John Gyllenhammer was not present at the meeting and did not vote. Four members of the public spoke during public comments at the lightly attended meeting. Two […]
- [CALIFORNIANS FACE HIGHEST MEMORIAL DAY GAS PRICES EVER](https://theorangeindependent.com/californians-face-highest-memorial-day-gas-prices-ever/): With oil prices currently just below $100 a barrel, Californians are facing Memorial Day weekend gasoline and diesel prices that are the highest ever recorded for the holiday weekend. The national average prices is at the same level as it was in 2022. That year gas prices hit record highs. According to AAA, “Travelers are preparing to hit the road in record numbers next week, and drivers will be facing the highest Memorial Day gas prices”. AAA estimates 39.1 million Americans will travel this weekend. Prices exceed $6 in California. Texas had the lowest price at $3.99 per gallon. Many […]
- [CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY AT ODDS WITH CITY OVER "UNDIE RUN"](https://theorangeindependent.com/chapman-university-at-odds-with-city-over-undie-run/): Chapman University and the City of Orange are at odds on the eve of the end of semester, decades old Undie Run. Undie Runs are not unique to Chapman University; many colleges have them as a way for students to unwind after final exams. In the case of Chapman, students typically run late at night from the University arch at Glassell Street and Sycamore Avenue, south on Glassell and into and around the Orange Plaza, then back to the arch where the event ends. Dr. Jerry Price, Chapman’s beloved and retiring Dean of Students, put out a notice to students […]
- [CITY COUNCIL TO DISCUSS 1% SALES TAX INCREASE AT NEXT MEETING](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-council-to-discuss-1-sales-tax-increase-at-next-meeting/): The Orange City Council is scheduled to “Consider revenue measures to address ongoing structural General Fund deficits and provide direction for the November 2026 General Municipal Election.” At the last Council meeting, City Manager Jarad Hildenbrand painted a dire picture of city finances, including the potential for bankruptcy if significant additional revenue is not generated. City Councilmember Jon Dimitru gave an impassioned speech during the meeting, saying, “We need to be more direct with the public on what this really means. This is not just about balancing a spreadsheet. This is about maintaining core services that keep the community safe, […]
- [$398,000 BARRIERS NOBODY WANTED OR ASKED FOR DELIVERED TO PLAZA](https://theorangeindependent.com/398000-barriers-nobody-wanted-or-asked-for-delivered-to-plaza/): The City just received delivery of $398,000 worth of Meridian Barriers meant to protect pedestrians from vehicle intrusion in the Plaza. The $398,000 purchase hastily approved by a majority of the Orange City Council two months ago is roughly 50% of the barriers needed to protect events in the Plaza. These new barriers, along with others rented from Meridian will protect the plaza during this weekends 30th Annual Orange Plaza Rotary Car Show. These barriers are proven to be effective in stopping cars and trucks during accidental and purposeful intrusions into protected areas. The problem is not that they don’t […]
- [ORANGE FIREFIGHTERS QUICKLY CONTAIN MOBILE HOME FIRE](https://theorangeindependent.com/orange-firefighters-make-quick-work-of-mobile-home-fire/): Orange Firefighters, assisted by crews from Anaheim and the Orange County Fire Authority, responded to a mobile home fire at 300 North Rampart St shortly before noon Friday. Firefighters aboard Orange Engine 5 were the first to arrive on scene and found heavy fire coming from the back yard of the mobile home Crews initially had difficulty accessing the fire due to what were described as “hoarder conditions” in the back yard. It took approximately 20 Firefighters about 10 minutes to knock down the blaze. No one was home at the time, and no injuries were reported. A fire investigator […]
- [ELDERLY WOMAN SLAMS INTO BUS STOP INJURING 2](https://theorangeindependent.com/elderly-woman-slams-into-bus-stop-injuring-2/): An elderly woman driving a car turning left from Katella Avenue onto southbound Tustin Street lost control of the car, jumped the curb, and slammed into a bus stop with at least one person, possibly 2, sitting on the bench. The Orange Fire Department responded to the accident and declared it a Mass Casualty Incident. The Orange Police Public Information Officer told us that 2 people were transported to a local hospital with moderate injuries. It was not clear if the elderly driver was one of the injured, or both were on the bench.
- [ORANGE PLAZA CLEANING FINALLY BEGINS](https://theorangeindependent.com/orange-plaza-cleaning-finally-begins/): A new cleaning contractor has started power washing the sidewalks and common areas of the Orange Plaza six weeks after the Orange City Council voted to direct the City Manager to restart a contract to have the Plaza cleaned regularly. The contract with another company ended nearly 2 years ago due to budget shortfalls. The cleanliness of the historic Orange Plaza, which many consider the crown jewel of Orange, had deteriorated significantly, leaving many residents and business owners concerned by increasingly filthy conditions and odors throughout the area. The new contractor started methodically cleaning the Plaza Tuesday night and appeared […]
- [A MONTH AFTER CITY MANAGER DIRECTED TO CLEAN THE PLAZA NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE](https://theorangeindependent.com/a-month-after-city-manager-directed-to-clean-the-plaza-nohing-has-been-done/): Nearly a month ago at the February 24th meeting of the Orange City Council, the City Manager was directed by the Council to restart a power washing contract to clean the sidewalks of the Orange Plaza. As of today it appears that nothing has been done to address any of the issues we highlighted in our article regarding the deteriorating conditions in the historic Plaza. https://theorangeindependent.com/once-the-crown-jewel-of-orange-the-plaza-is-quickly-tarnishing/ Thursday afternoon we stood in the Plaza with a business owner that is increasingly fed up with conditions in the area and watched as one pedestrian after another stepped in the remnants of a […]
- [WANT TO SEE THE MAYOR GIVE THE STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS? IT WILL COST YOU $85](https://theorangeindependent.com/want-to-see-the-mayor-give-the-state-of-the-city-address-it-will-cost-you-85/): The Mayor of Orange, Dan Slater, is scheduled to give his State of the City Address this Friday the 20th hosted by the Orange Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau at Chapman University. The Chamber of Commerce describes the event on its website as “Mayor Dan Slater presents a look at the past year and the plans for the coming year. The Citizen of the Year and Businesses of the Year awards are presented. The program will also be livestreamed on the Orange Chamber Facebook page. Following the program, there will be a lovely cocktail party on Aitken Arts Plaza, the […]
- [CITY REACHES TENTATIVE AGREEMENT WITH STRIKING WORKERS](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-reaches-tentative-agreement-with-striking-workers/): The City of Orange has announced that they have reached a tentative agreement with the striking city workers belonging to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers seeking a pay increase. “This resolution recognizes the importance of the hardworking employees represented by the IBEW Local 47, who play a critical frontline role in serving our community”, said Mayor Dan Slater. “I’m proud we were able to reach an agreement that reflects the City’s commitment to fairness, equity, and respect for our employees.” The striking workers are expected to return to work on March 16th. These negations are only the first with […]
- [SUSPECTED DRUNK DRIVER SMASHES INTO PARKED CARS ON GLASSELL STREET](https://theorangeindependent.com/suspected-drunk-driver-smashes-into-parked-cars-on-glassell-street/): A suspected drunk driver slammed into a row of cars parked along Glassell Street near La Vita Avenue shortly after 2 a.m. Saturday morning before crashing his SUV into a tree. The loud series of crashes awakened residents who then flooded into the street to find their cars damaged or totaled by the impact. The suspected DUI driver attempted to flee the scene but was quickly apprehended by Orange Police Officers on La Vita Avenue. The driver was given a series of filed sobriety tests and a Preliminary Alcohol Screening breath test. As a result of those tests he was […]
- [CITY EMPLOYEES UNION TO BEGIN STRIKE MARCH 1](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-employees-union-to-begin-strike-march-1/): The City of Orange just issued a press release regarding city workers beginning a strike on March 1. The release says in part; “The City of Orange officially received notice that the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 47 intends to initiate a strike beginning on Sunday, March 1st. IBEW Local 47 represents City employees in the Maintenance & Crafts and Water Division.During the anticipated strike, Orange residents and businesses may experience delayed, reduced, or modified services levels, including: Police, fire, emergency response services, and the safety of the City’s drinking water systems will not be affected. The City is making every […]
- [MORTGAGE RATES FALL BELOW 6% FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2022](https://theorangeindependent.com/mortgage-rates-fall-below-6-for-the-first-time-since-2022/): Mortgage Lender Freddy Mac reported that the rate for a 30 year fixed rate mortgage fell to 5.98%, the first time it has been under 6% since September, 2022. The rate for a 30 year fixed mortgage peaked at 7.79 percent in October of 2023. When President Trump took office in January 2025 rates hovered around 7%. Rates have been steadily declining since May of 2025. According to a press release by Freddy Mac, “This rate, combined with the improving availability of homes for sale, is meaningful and will drive more potential buyers into the market for spring home buying […]
- [CITY MANAGER TO RESTART PLAZA CLEANING CONTRACT](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-manager-to-restart-plaza-cleaning-contract/): At the direction of the City council, the City Manager has been instructed to restart the contract to have the Plaza regularly cleaned by a power washing company. The contract was suspended approximately 14 months ago to save money. Since then the cleanliness of the Plaza area has deteriorated significantly. The City Manager will determine how often the cleaning will occur, likely once a month to start. It remains to be seen if and when the light fixtures and trash cans will be repaired and re-painted to fix the damage done by dog urine. Council member Arianna Barrios represents District […]
- [ONCE THE CROWN JEWEL OF ORANGE, THE PLAZA IS QUICKLY TARNISHING](https://theorangeindependent.com/once-the-crown-jewel-of-orange-the-plaza-is-quickly-tarnishing/): The Orange Plaza, once the historic heart of a vibrant and flourishing city, is deteriorating quickly into a dirty and crime ridden problem for a city facing serious financial problems and a shortage of Police Officers. Residents and business owners are increasingly sounding the alarm to city officials about the conditions in the Plaza. One business owner who spoke to us asking that we not identify him told us “We are very concerned with conditions in the circle, from dog poop, to the smell of urine, filthy sidewalks, screaming mentally ill homeless people, YouTubers assaulting a man out shopping with […]
- [SUSPECTED DRUNK DRIVER CRASHES ON GLASSELL STREET](https://theorangeindependent.com/suspected-drunk-driver-crashes-on-glassell-street/): A suspected DUI driver made a mess of Glassell Street at Walnut Avenue around 2:30 a.m. Sunday morning. The man, driving northbound, crashed into a bus stop, fire hydrant, and a tree leaving a geyser and debris all over the street and the front yards of nearby homes. Chapman University Public Safety Officers were in the immediate area and heard the crash and stopped to assist. Orange Police Officers arrested the man for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. He was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries by City of Orange Firefighters. The Firefighters also shut […]
- [CITY WORKERS VOTE TO STRIKE](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-workers-vote-to-strike/): City workers that are members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 47 have voted to strike after reaching an impasse in negotiation with the City of Orange the have been ongoing since the spring of 2025. The workers are employed in the Maintenance & Crafts Division and the Water Divisions. A date for the start of the strike has not yet been announced by the union. While the City of Orange is experiencing budget shortfalls, many of these workers are paid well below the rates paid by other Orange County cities, and have not received pay increases in […]
- [4 CATS SURVIVE CONDO FIRE IN EAST ORANGE](https://theorangeindependent.com/4-cats-survive-condo-fire-in-east-orange/): 4 cats survived a fire in a condominium at 155 N Singingwood Street in Orange that was reported at 11:11 p.m. Wednesday night in the Villeurbanne condo complex. The fire appears to have started in a garage underneath the condos. City of Orange Firefighters and Firefighters from the Orange County Fire Authority made quick access to the garages and had the fire out in a matter of minutes. The 4 cats and their owners managed to escape the fire uninjured, although one cat looked quite annoyed at the inconvenience. A Fire Investigator from the City of Orange Fire Department was […]
- [NEWLY RELEASED EPSTEIN FILES INCLUDE FORMER CHAPMAN PRESIDENT AND LECTURER](https://theorangeindependent.com/newly-released-epstein-files-include-former-chapman-president-and-lecturer/): The latest batch of documents related to Jeffery Epstein reveal connections to former Chapman University President Daniele Struppa and Jack Homer who Chapman describes as “Lecturer; Presidential Fellow”. Struppa does not appear to have had any contact at all with Epstein. He received a bizarre, seemingly unhinged email from former Rutgers Professor Robert Trivers blaming Struppa for his not getting hired by Chapman University. Trivers is known to have been associated with Epstein for several years, although their relationship is not clear. In the case of Paleontologist Jack Horner who teaches two honors courses at Chapman, and founded Chapman’s dinosaur […]
- [MAJOR ACCIDENT CLOSES SOUTHBOUND 57 FREEWAY](https://theorangeindependent.com/major-accident-closes-southbound-57-freeway/): Firefighters from Anaheim and the City of Orange responded to a major accident on the southbound 57 freeway late Sunday night near the Big A just north of the Orangewood Avenue offramp. According to witnesses, a car traveling at high speeds lost control, overturned, and caught fire in the fast lane of the freeway leaving the driver trapped in the wreckage. Additional collisions occurred as incoming cars were unable to avoid the overturned car. In all it appeared that at least 6 cars and 5 injured persons were involved. The first arriving fire engine quickly assessed the scene that was […]
- [CHP UNIT CRASHES WHILE SEARCHING FOR WRONG WAY DRIVER](https://theorangeindependent.com/1312-2/): Shortly before 2:30 a.m. Sunday morning, the California Highway Patrol began receiving 911 calls reporting that a pick up truck was driving the wrong way on the 55 freeway in Orange at high speed. Numerous callers reported that the truck was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of the freeway starting around the 22 freeway. CHP officers from the Santa Ana office responded to the area and attempted to locate the wrong way truck as the 911 calls continued. One of those responding CHP units was northbound on the 55 approaching the Lincoln Avenue exit when it encountered an SUV […]
- [POLICE PULL PASSENGERS FROM FIERY CRASH ON MAIN STREET](https://theorangeindependent.com/police-resident-pull-passengers-from-fiery-wreckage/): A loud crash awakened residents in the 200 block of N. Main Street around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday morning. One resident ran outside to find his parked pick up truck on fire and on top of a car that had plowed into and under the truck. The car was also on fire with the driver and 2 passengers still inside. The resident attempted to help the 2 men and 1 woman out of the wreckage as Orange Police Officers arrived and deployed fire extinguishers and pulled the occupants out of the car. The crash occurred about 100 feet from Orange Fire […]
- [END OF AN ERA: BELOVED FIRE CHIEF DEMETROPOLIS BIDS CITY FAREWELL AFTER 3 DECADES OF SERVICE](https://theorangeindependent.com/end-of-en-era-beloved-fire-chief-demetropolis-bids-city-farewell-after-3-decades-of-service/): City of Orange Fire Chief Sean deMetropolis completed his last day as Fire Chief Thursday. Hundreds of supporters, Firefighters, and family members turned out to thank him for his friendship and years of exemplary service to the city. Chief deMetropolis has served the City of Orange for more than three decades, and is widely recognized as a model 21st century Fire Chief. The Orange Fire Department has long been a shining example of a very efficient and well run department. Chief deMetropolis’ strong and forward thinking leadership leaves the department in excellent shape as he hands the reigns over to […]
- [RETIRING FIRE CHIEF SEAN DEMETROPOLIS DELIVERS POWERFUL SPEECH TO CITY COUNCIL](https://theorangeindependent.com/retiring-fire-chief-sean-demetropolis-delivers-powerful-speech-to-city-council/): Retiring Orange Fire Chief Sean deMetropolis gave his final address to the Orange City Council at its’ regular meeting Tuesday night. Chief deMetropolis used the opportunity to give the City Council some advice many believe they needed to hear. A formal or informal “exit interview” of a 30 year city employee would seem like an obvious exercise for elected officials of a city with financial and other issues. But, as deMetropolis forcefully and professionally pointed out, “as the department head with the most time and the most tenure, I’ve seen first hand the strain that has been placed on the […]
- [ORANGE POLICE OFFICER HONORED FOR SAVING BABY'S LIFE](https://theorangeindependent.com/orange-police-officer-honored-for-saving-baby/): An Orange Police K9 Officer was honored by the City Council Tuesday night for saving the life of a baby that was choking on a hair clip. Shortly after 7 p.m. on Monday, January 19th Orange Police dispatch received a frantic 911 call reporting that a baby was choking and was not breathing. Patrol Officers were immediately dispatched and Corporal Cates was the first to arrive and he immediately began trying to dislodge the object from the baby’s throat. After several attempts, the clip dislodged the baby began breathing. Orange Firefighters arrived quickly and transported the baby to the hospital […]
- [DOG KILLED IN MORNING APARTMENT FIRE](https://theorangeindependent.com/dog-killed-in-morning-apartment-fire/): City of Orange Firefighters assisted by Anaheim and Orange County Fire Authority Firefighters were dispatched to an apartment fire at 235 W. Lincoln Avenue shortly after 9 a.m. Friday Morning. The first arriving fire unit reported a working fire in one apartment on the first floor. That apartment was completely gutted by the fire and several others were damaged. A total of 6 residents were evaluated by Paramedics with 5 of them being transported by ambulance to area hospitals. A total of 6 apartments were damaged with 6 adults and 6 children being displaced from their homes. The Red Cross […]
- [ONE PERSON KILLED IN HIGH SPEED PURSUIT CRASH](https://theorangeindependent.com/one/): One person was killed and another is under arrest for suspected DUI and evading police following a short pursuit initiated by the California Highway Patrol. The chase ended when the car hit a pole at Batavia and La Veta in Orange at high speed. The impact caused the car to split in half, leaving the female passenger dead and the driver injured. The impact of the crash damaged traffic signals at the busy intersection which were still being repaired by City of Orange crews late this afternoon. The Orange Police Departments Traffic Unit is conducting the investigation.
- [AMMONIA LEAK INJURES DELIVERY DRIVER](https://theorangeindependent.com/ammonia-leak-injures-delivery-driver/): An ammonia tanker driver is in the hospital after being exposed to potentially deadly ammonia while delivering the gas to a company on N. Main Street in Orange shortly after 1 a.m. Friday morning. The driver told Firefighters that the delivery hose somehow became partially disconnected while he was delivering the gas to a tank at the business. A HazMat team from the Anaheim Fire Department decontaminated the driver and he was then transported to UCI Medical Center in Orange. Busy Main Street was close to traffic by Orange Police as the Hazmat Team secured the delivery hose and dissipated […]
- [BRANDY ROMERO ELECTED CHAIR PERSON OF THE PARK PLANNING AND   COMMUNITY EVENTS COMMISSION](https://theorangeindependent.com/brandy-romero-elected-chair-person-of-the-park-planning-and-community-events-commission/): In a move that seemed to surprise even her, Brandy Romero was appointed to be the new Chairperson of the Park Planning and Community Events Commission by her fellow Commissioners. The City of Orange Park Planning and Community Events Commission advises the City Council on matters regarding city parks, public events, and more. Although relatively new to the Commission, Romero has significant experience organizing and raising funds for public events in Orange. She was instrumental in saving Treats in the Streets when the City was unable to fund the event.
- [CITY APPOINTS NEW FIRE CHIEF](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-appoints-new-fire-chief/): Recently, Orange Fire Chief Sean deMetropolis announced he was retiring with his last day on the job being January, 29th 2026. Chief deMetropolis has served the City of Orange for more than three decades, and is widely recognized as a model 21st century Fire Chief. The Orange Fire Department has long been an example of a very efficient and well run department. Chief deMetropolis’ strong and forward thinking leadership leaves the department in excellent shape as he hands the reigns over to the new Chief. At Tuesdays regular City Council meeting it was announced that City Manager Jarad Hildenbrand has […]
- [FIREFIGHTERS HOLD FUNDRAISER AT CULINARY DROPOUT TONIGHT](https://theorangeindependent.com/firefighters-hold-fundraiser-at-culinary-dropout-tonight/): The Orange Firefighters Foundation is holding a fundraiser at Culinary Dropout from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday night January 5th to benefit the foundation. The restaurant is donating 20% of all sales directly to the Orange Firefighters Foundation. You can learn more about the foundation and donate here… https://www.orangefirefightersfoundation.com
- [CAR HITS LIQUOR STORE](https://theorangeindependent.com/car-hits-liquor-store/): A driver caused damage to the Hi Ho liquor store at 824 E. Lincoln Avenue Monday afternoon when his car crashed into the building near the front door. The Orange Fire Department Urban Search & Rescue unit responded to the scene and assessed the building for structural damage and integrity. The City of Orange Building Department also sent an inspector. No one was injured and the driver of the car that hit the building was being evaluated by Orange Police for possible impairment.
- [FORECAST CALLS FOR WET WEEK AHEAD](https://theorangeindependent.com/forecast-calls-for-wet-week-ahead/): Forecasters are predicting a very wet and windy week due to a warm low pressure system from the southwest. Periods of heavy rain are expected through the end of next week. The chance of rain is at 100% for Wednesday and Thursday, with New Years Day likely seeing heavy rainfall throughout the day. The week will see a chance of rain nearly every day and possible strong winds in between bands of rain starting Wednesday morning. Orange County will be under a Flash Flood Watch until at least 10 pm.m on New Years Eve.
- [MAN STRUCK WHILE CROSSING STREET IN HEAVY RAIN](https://theorangeindependent.com/man-struck-while-crossing-street-in-heavy-rain/): A man is in critical condition after he was struck by a car while crossing the street in heavy rain around 11:40 p.m. Tuesday night. The man was crossing Glassell Street near Collins Avenue in Orange and may have been outside a crosswalk.  Orange Firefighters transported the victim to UCI Medical Center by ambulance. The driver of the car that struck him remained at the scene and was interviewed by police. Police are asking anyone that may have witnessed the incident to contact Orange PD.
- [A VERY WET, NOT WHITE CHRISTMAS EXPECTED!](https://theorangeindependent.com/a-very-wet-not-white-christmas-expected/): Heavy precipitation is expected across California later this week as a large atmospheric river moves in from the Pacific Northwest. Rain is expected to move in on Tuesday and continue on and off through Friday, making for a possibly very wet Christmas. Air and car travel could be impacted, check conditions before departing, and please slow down while driving in wet conditions. Temperatures in Orange should be in the 60s during the day and 50s at night. Urban flash flooding is possible in areas prone to flooding.
- [FREE SANTA EVENT IN THE PLAZA DRAWS HUNDREDS](https://theorangeindependent.com/free-santa-event-in-the-plaza-draws-hundreds/): A chance meeting between Santa Claus and Brandy Romero owner of the Squeeze in the Plaza led to a free event this afternoon that drew hundreds of kids and families. Santa posed for free pictures while the Squeeze provided free cupcakes and ice cold milk for everyone. If you are in need of a last minute Santa, you can contact Santa David at 714-342-2706.
- [CITY PROVIDES UPDATE TO PLAZA PAID PARKING LAUNCH](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-provides-update-to-plaza-paid-parking-launch/): According to the City of Orange, paid parking in the Orange Plaza area is expected to begin sometime in January. The city vows to provide at least 30 days notice in advance of the start date for paid parking so it could be pushed back even further as many questions about exactly how it will work are yet to be decided as of mid December. No cost permits for residents living in the Plaza commercial area will be made available. Once implemented, paid parking will be in effect from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.. The operation of the paid parking […]
- [OTPA HOLIDAY DECORATION CONTEST RESULTS!](https://theorangeindependent.com/otpa-holiday-decoration-contest-results/): A panel of expert judges combed the streets of Old Towne Orange to find the best and most creatively decorated properties for the annual Old Towne Preservation Association’s (OTPA) holiday decoration contest. The winner of the Best Block category was of particular note as the block celebrated 25 years of the neighbors decorating their homes. The winners by category are… Best Block- 200 N. Pine Street (300 S. Pixley Honorable Mention) Most Beautiful- 205 N. Pine Street Most Old Fashioned- 714 E. Maple Avenue Best Use of Lights- 237 N. Harwood Avenue Most Original- 299 N. Pine Street Most Whimsical- […]
- [GAS PRICES HIT 5 YEAR LOWS](https://theorangeindependent.com/gas-prices-hit-5-year-lows/): Gas prices have fallen to their lowest level in nearly five years as the national average hits $2.89
- [CAR IN SANTA ANA RIVER SPARKS LARGE SEARCH](https://theorangeindependent.com/car-in-santa-ana-river-sparks-large-search/): A car was found unoccupied in the Santa Ana River at Chapman Ave. in Orange around 10:30 p.m. Thursday night. The discovery of the car forced the launch of a large Swift Water Search and Rescue Operation along the riverbed that involved Firefighters from the City of Orange, Anaheim, and the Orange County Fire Authority. The driver of the car was reportedly not found. The water level and rate of flow made it somewhat likely that the driver simply walked away.
- [CITY ADDS REFLECTORS TO ORANGE CIRCLE](https://theorangeindependent.com/city-adds-reflectors-to-orange-circle/): The Orange City Council at their September 23rd meeting discussed further measures to attempt to decrease the number of car crashes into the park at the center of the Orange Circle. At the suggestion of the Mayor, the Honorable Dan Slater, the council voted to have city staff install additional reflectors around the park while further measures and costs were determined. Less than 48 hours later crews from the Public Works Department installed reflectors on the curbing of the park at each of the 4 entrances to the circle from Glassell Street and Chapman Avenue. While the additional reflectors were […]
- [CAR CRASHES INTO CIRCLE AGAIN!](https://theorangeindependent.com/car-crashes-into-circle-again/): The time between cars driving into the park at the center of the Orange Plaza seems to be decreasing, despite the best efforts of the City. Orange Police received several 911 calls reporting that a white van had driven into the park and was careening back and forth on the parks pathway nearly hitting the fountain but stopping short. Police arrived in about one minute and blocked the path of the van. The driver was taken into custody and checked out by Orange Fire Paramedcs. Preliminary information from the scene indicates the driver may have been having medical issues. Orange […]
- [RABBIES INFECTED BAT FOUND IN ORANGE](https://theorangeindependent.com/94-2/): A bat located on a sidewalk in Orange has been confirmed to carry rabies, leading health authorities to advise residents on Wednesday to steer clear of wild animals and seek medical attention if they suspect exposure. The bat was found in the afternoon on October 16 in the 500 block of South Main Street on the west side, as reported by the Orange County Health Care Agency. Authorities recommend that anyone who handled the bat or witnessed someone else doing so should contact the agency’s Communicable Disease Control Division at 714-834-8180, available around the clock. Pet owners whose animals might […]
- [WALMART MAKES THANKSGIVING AFFORDABLE AGAIN](https://theorangeindependent.com/walmart-makes-thanksgiving-affordable-again/): Walmart revealed on Tuesday that its Thanksgiving meal basket for 2025 will cost under $4 per person, the lowest price since the program began in 2022. The basket, which serves 10, includes over 20 items like a 13.5-pound Butterball turkey at 97 cents per pound—the cheapest since 2019—plus classic holiday items such as stuffing, cranberries, green beans, dinner rolls, and pumpkin pie ingredients. The total cost is less than $40. This year’s price is a notable reduction from 2024’s basket, which was around $7 per person. The move comes as retailers ramp up promotions for the holiday season, with shoppers still […]
- [Healthy by Nature](https://theorangeindependent.com/healthy-by-nature/): Understanding Health Trends in Southern California Southern California is renowned for its diverse culture, scenic beauty, and vibrant lifestyle. However, when it comes to health trends, the region offers its unique pattern. Communities across this vast area prioritize wellness through beneficial habits that encourage physical and mental well-being. The commitment to an active lifestyle, enriched by fresh produce and outdoor activities, contributes significantly to the overall health of its residents. The Importance of Accessibility to Health Resources Access to health resources is crucial for fostering a healthy population in Southern California. Many neighborhoods are equipped with wellness centers, fitness facilities, […]
- [Trick-or-Treat Weather: Mild Days & Clear Nights Ahead](https://theorangeindependent.com/trick-or-treat-weather-mild-days-clear-nights-ahead/): Overview of Halloween Weekend Weather This Halloween weekend, residents of Orange, California, can expect a mix of sunshine and clouds. According to the latest weather forecasts, temperatures will be mild, providing a comfortable atmosphere for trick-or-treaters and Halloween celebrations. On Saturday, the weather will be partly sunny with highs reaching around 75°F. Perfect for outdoor activities and getting those costumes ready! What to Expect on Halloween Night As we approach Halloween night, temperatures are predicted to drop slightly, with lows around 58°F. Clear skies are likely, which means it will be a beautiful evening for all the ghosts and goblins […]

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