Countywide : Freedom Foundation Honors 10 Residents

Ten county residents, a veterans’ organization, two elementary schools and a professor at Chapman College were honored by the Freedom Foundation of Valley Forge.

Receiving awards for economic education were James Doti of Anaheim, a Chapman College dean, and G. Maxine Preston of Anaheim Hills, assistant director of the Chapman Enterprise Institute. James Silva of Huntington Beach received an award as outstanding educator in economics and civics.

Velma Montoya Thompson, a Chapman College professor, was recognized for teaching an honors course on the American free enterprise system.

Jo Ann Curnett of Santa Ana and Joyce Hanson of Orange were awarded the medal for a musical program they developed.

Also recognized for musical achievement was Robert L. Ward of Santa Ana, founder of the Santa Ana Winds.

Awarded a medal for community work was Nat Bassevitch of Garden Grove, commander of the Jewish War Veterans Post 760, which also received recognition for its “Adopt a Vet” program.

Mariposa School in Brea and Harbor View School in Corona del Mar were honored for outstanding patriotic programs.

Fifth-grade student Ralph Yrure of Placentia received a medal for his memorial drawing of the Challenger astronauts.

Receiving certificates for essays were Cpl. Ronald K. Taylor, a Tustin Marine, and U. S. Army Lt. Col. Cornelius Westerhoff of Mission Viejo.