Alumnus of the Year 2019
Christina Gomez graduated June 7, 1971 and traveled to Los Angeles a few days later where she met Oscar Redes.
Oscar was born in Mexico near the Texas border. He came to the U.S. and began school in the Los Angeles area graduating from Nogales High School in La Puente in 1966. He entered the U.S. Air force serving 4 years. He was discharged in 1971 with the rank of Sergeant. Oscar received his U.S. citizenship in 1976.
The two were married in February 1972. Oscar was hired by Travel Accessories in Orland. Son Tony was born late 1972. Oscar then worked for the City of Orland Public Works for 5 years. In 1975, daughter Angie was born. Tony graduated from OHS class of 1990, and Angie is a graduate of the class of 1993.
While attending Butte College studying Commercial art, Oscar and Chris started their sign and retail business in May 1978. They joined the Orland Chamber of Commerce where Oscar later served as president, and they are both members of the Orland Historical and Cultural Society.
Chris was a charter member of the Soroptimist International of Orland where she served 2 terms as president, and is currently a member of the Orland Women's Improvement Club.
Oscar is a past president of the Orland Eagles, served 4 terms as president of Orland Kiwanis, and is a past Grand Knight of the Orland Knights of Columbus. He has spent over 35 years as the time keeper in the press box for the OHS football games. Oscar is also a charter member of the Loyal Order of Moose.
Orland was very proud to honor Oscar and Chris as Citizens of the Year for our community in July 2019.
They have 6 grandchildren: Letty and Lorenzo who attend Butte College, Lexi graduating OHS, Lucas graduating Lake School, Oscar and Ava attending Jackson Heights School in Red Bluff, and one great grandson Johnnie in kindergarten.
Chris and Oscar have just surpassed 48 years of marriage, and their daughter Angie and her husband Marcos recently celebrated their 25th anniversary.
They love our town and are happy to serve our community!
