Irvine : City Changes Street Name to Challenger
More than 3 years after the 1986 space shuttle disaster, a group of Irvine residents celebrated new street signs Friday, renaming the entryway to their community Challenger in honor of the crew.
“It was the American thing to do,” said Northwood Glen resident Les Kaufman, who attended a dedication ceremony on the former Norfolk Street. Kaufman, who with other community leaders had sought the name change, said it was a way to “honor the heroes in our society.”
Dr. Marvin Resnik, father of the late astronaut Judith Resnik, attended the ceremony. He thanked residents for their efforts and expressed his continued support of the U.S. space program.
During the 10-minute ceremony, Kaufman unwrapped a new sign and spilled champagne on the post as about 15 smiling residents looked on.
“I’m very glad,” Kaufman said about the final change of the street name. “It’s about time.”
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