# The Santanero
> The latest news and events happening in Santa Ana, California
Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. Use `/llms-full.txt` for consolidated page and post context.
Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`).

## Pages
- [About Us](https://www.santanero.org/about.md) - Welcome to The Santanero Santa Ana is more than just a city—it's a community of neighbors, families, students, workers, business owners, and local leaders. The Santanero exists to help keep that community informed, connected, and engaged. Founded on April 20, 2022, by Daniel Diaz, The Santanero is…
- [Account](https://www.santanero.org/account.md)
- [Archives](https://www.santanero.org/archives.md) - KNX-AM 1070 Final CBS Roundup 052126 1300KNX-AM 1070 Final CBS Roundup 052126 1300.mp33 MBdownload-circleKNX-AM 1070 Switch to ABC News Radio 052126 1400KNX-AM 1070 Switch to ABC News Radio 052126 1400.mp33 MBdownload-circle
- [CommunityCal](https://www.santanero.org/communitycal.md) - Welcome to the CommunityCal(endar) If you'd like to submit an event, click here.
- [Become a Contributor](https://www.santanero.org/contribute.md) - Santanero Media Group welcomes contributors from across the Santa Ana community and beyond. We are committed to creating a platform where local voices, perspectives, and stories can be shared and amplified. Who can contribute We encourage submissions from: * Students and aspiring journalists * Comm…
- [ElectioNite: California State Primary | Live Election Results](https://www.santanero.org/election-results.md) - Live Unofficial Results Loading results...
- [Events](https://www.santanero.org/events.md)
- [Archived Issues](https://www.santanero.org/issues.md) - Archived Issues Click on a date below to view the digital edition for that day. Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025 Special issue for Fiestas Patrias! Thursday, Mar. 6, 2025 Click here to view. Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024 Click here to view. Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024 Includes obituary of former Mayor Jerry Patterson.…
- [Santanero Radio](https://www.santanero.org/radio.md) - Test page.
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- [Sports](https://www.santanero.org/sports.md) - This is a work in progress but meanwhile take our survey!
- [Submissions Portal](https://www.santanero.org/submit.md) - Welcome to The Santanero's submissions page.
- [Subscribe](https://www.santanero.org/subscribe.md)
- [Writers](https://www.santanero.org/writers.md)

## Posts
- [State report concludes investigation into fatal Santa Ana police shooting of Noe Rodriguez](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/07/29/state-report-concludes-investigation-into-fatal-santa-ana-police-shooting-of-noe-rodriguez.md) - Two Santa Ana police officers involved in the fatal 2024 shooting of Noe Rodriguez Martinez will not face criminal charges, the California Department of Justice found.
- [Sidewalk chalk or vandalism? Arrest of local ICE watcher raises questions](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/07/24/sidewalk-chalk-or-vandalism-arrest-of-local-ice-watcher-raises-questions.md) - Police confirmed an alleged vandalism citation but not the underlying conduct. ICE watchers say it involved sidewalk chalk, calling the arrest an overreach intended to discourage community members from monitoring ICE activity.
- [Rapid Response Director Sandra De Anda announces Ward 4 candidacy](https://www.santanero.org/news/electionite/2026/07/16/rapid-response-director-sandra-de-anda-announces-ward-4-candidacy.md) - Sandra De Anda, an immigration advocate and one of the directors of the Orange County Rapid Response Network, announced her campaign for Santa Ana City Council's Ward 4 seat in a Thursday social media post. "Santa Ana deserves leadership that will stand up for its people, not look the other way whe…
- [City Council Recap: Jul. 7, 2026](https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2026/07/09/city-council-recap-jul-7-2026.md) - From spending of office spaces for city services to asking voters on Measure X's future, here's what happened at Tuesday's city council meeting.
- [Appointment of Ward 6 candidate sparks ethics debate](https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2026/07/08/appointment-of-ward-6-candidate-sparks-ethics-debate.md) - What began as a routine appointment quickly evolved into a debate over ethics, elections and public service.
- [How to run for elected office in Santa Ana](https://www.santanero.org/news/electionite/2026/07/07/how-to-run-for-elected-office-in-santa-ana.md) - A step-by-step (unofficial) guide on running for office in Santa Ana.
- [Thousands celebrate in Santa Ana as México ends a 40-year World Cup knockout drought](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/07/02/thousands-celebrate-in-santa-ana-as-mexico-ends-a-40-year-world-cup-knockout-drought.md) - Fans took over Downtown and Bristol well into Tuesday evening.
- [Supreme Court rejects Trump's bid to end birthright citizenship in landmark ruling](https://www.santanero.org/news/national-eye/2026/06/30/supreme-court-rejects-trumps-bid-to-end-birthright-citizenship-in-landmark-ruling.md) - CORRECTION: An earlier version of this post incorrectly stated that the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Trump v. Barbara was decided by a 5-4 vote. We regret the error and have since corrected the article. WASHINGTON, D.C. — In one of the most consequential constitutional decisions in decades, the…
- [Supreme Court strikes down federal limits on coordinated campaign spending by political parties](https://www.santanero.org/news/national-eye/2026/06/30/supreme-court-strikes-down-federal-limits-on-coordinated-campaign-spending-by-political-parties.md) - WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a major campaign finance ruling released Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down longstanding federal limits on how much political parties may spend in coordination with their own candidates, holding the restrictions violate the First Amendment in the case of National Repu…
- [Supreme Court rules 6-3 states may limit girls' sports to biological females under Title IX, Constitution](https://www.santanero.org/news/national-eye/2026/06/30/supreme-court-rules-6-3-states-may-limit-girls-sports-to-biological-females-under-title-ix-constitution.md) - WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a landmark decision expected to reshape school athletics nationwide, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Tuesday in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox that states may limit participation in girls' and women's school sports to biological females without violating either Title…
- [Westminster resident arrested after allegedly doing drifts during World Cup Celebration](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/06/26/westminster-resident-arrested-after-allegedly-doing-drifts-during-world-cup-celebration.md) - Santa Ana Police arrested a Westminster resident after allegedly drifting his vehicle in Downtown after México's win against Czechia, causing $15,000 in damages.
- [Hernandez, Amezcua speak on police shooting that killed teen following domestic disturbance](https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2026/06/17/hernandez-amezcua-speak-on-police-shooting-that-killed-teen-following-domestic-disturbance.md) - Only two City electeds spoke on the matter Tuesday.
- [Police detail military equipment use during year marked by 2025 protests](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/06/16/police-detail-military-equipment-use-during-year-marked-by-2025-protests.md) - The Santa Ana Police Department presented its annual military equipment report Monday at the Southwest Senior Center, offering residents a review of the department's use of specialized equipment and providing insight into how police leaders make decisions during large-scale protests and mutual aid…
- [15-year-old killed by Santa Ana Police following domestic disturbance call](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/06/15/15-year-old-killed-by-santa-ana-police-following-domestic-disturbance-call.md) - A 15-year-old male was fatally shot by Santa Ana police officers Sunday night following a domestic disturbance call at an apartment complex near south Main Street and MacArthur Boulevard, authorities said. According to the Santa Ana Police Department, officers responded at approximately 10:30 PM on…
- [The Santanero's projections of the 2026 California Primary](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/06/04/the-santaneros-projections-of-the-2026-california-primary.md) - Only the top-two will advance in state and federal races, while nonpartisan candidates with 50% plus one win outright.
- [Anaheim police searching for man considered 'armed and dangerous', orders residents to stay indoors](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/05/28/anaheim-police-searching-for-man-considered-armed-and-dangerous-orders-residents-to-stay-indoors.md) - RAITT-WILSHIRE — An Anaheim police helicopter announced via PA system requesting residents of lock their doors and stay indoors amid a search for a male considered "armed and dangerous." The announcement was heard around 12:25 AM over the area of Raitt and Wilshire streets. No additional informatio…
- [SAUSD Canvas access disrupted after ‘cybersecurity incident’](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/05/08/sausd-canvas-access-disrupted-after-cybersecurity-incident.md) - The Santa Ana Unified School District announced Thursday that a global “cybersecurity incident” involving Canvas provider Instructure is causing service interruptions for students and staff across hundreds of school districts, colleges and universities. SAUSD technology officials said the issue is…
- [Santa Ana City Council enacts new self-checkout rules for drug, grocery retail stores](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/05/06/santa-ana-city-council-enacts-new-self-checkout-rules-for-drug-grocery-retail-stores.md) - The Santa Ana City Council voted unanimously Tuesday night to approve a new ordinance regulating self-checkout operations in retail drug stores, marking a major shift in how stores like CVS and Walgreens may operate self-service kiosks in the city. The ordinance, considered during Tuesday’s council…
- [OCTA retires paper bus passes, fully transitions to WAVE](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/04/30/octa-retires-paper-bus-passes-fully-transitions-to-wave.md) - RIP OCTA Paper Passes
- [Santa Ana to consider regulating self-checkout in drug, retail stores](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/04/29/santa-ana-to-consider-regulating-self-checkout-in-drug-retail-stores.md) - The Santa Ana City Council is considering a proposed ordinance that would establish staffing and operational requirements for self-checkout systems in grocery and drug retail stores. According to the staff report, the measure is intended to address concerns related to retail theft, employee workloa…
- [Federal authorities arrest 25 alleged Mexican Mafia members and associates in California](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/04/23/federal-authorities-arrest-25-alleged-mexican-mafia-members-and-associates-in-california.md) - Of the 43 individuals charged Thursday, federal authorities conducted a series of coordinated actions, including a raid on a Santa Ana home. More than two dozen suspects were taken into custody as part of the operation.
- [Ducks end 8-year drought: Anaheim storms back into the Stanley Cup playoffs](https://www.santanero.org/news/sports/2026/04/21/ducks-end-8-year-drought-anaheim-storms-back-into-the-stanley-cup-playoffs.md) - Hear them waddle, hear them quack, the Anaheim Ducks are on attack!
- [Two killed, one wounded in suspected gang-related shooting in Mid-City](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/04/20/two-killed-one-wounded-in-suspected-gang-related-shooting-in-mid-city.md) - Authorities say the shooting occurred Sunday evening, where three men were found with gunshot wounds, two of whom died from their injuries.
- [The Santanero celebrates Local News Day](https://www.santanero.org/news/newsroom/2026/04/09/the-santanero-celebrates-local-news-day.md) - Today is Thursday, April 9th, newly known as Local News Day. It's the first inaugural celebration initially supported by the Montana Free Press, American Journalism Project, Press Forward, and more. The Santanero is proud to join over 1,300 newsrooms across the nation in this coalition to recognize…
- [Local nonprofit distributes naloxone at Bacerra’s office hours as overdose deaths trend downward](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/04/08/local-nonprofit-distributes-naloxone-at-bacerras-office-hours-as-overdose-deaths-trend-downward.md) - The Asian American Senior Citizens Service Center partnered with Councilmember Phil Bacerra to distribute naloxone during office hours Saturday, as opioid-related overdoses show a countywide decline.
- [City awarded $200 billion to add bike lanes to every single street](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/04/01/city-awarded-200-billion-to-add-bike-lanes-to-every-single-street.md) - The City of Santa Ana has been awarded $200 billion in funding to pave every single street in the city with a designated bike lane, including cul-de-sacs and roundabouts. “This will certainly boost the city’s green look,” said a V8 car user. The City is expected to host an event at a cul-de-sac whe…
- [City Council Recap: Feb. 3, 2026](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/02/05/city-council-recap-feb-3-2026.md) - Here's your Santa Ana City Council meeting recap.
- [Council approves police drone program in 4–3 vote](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2026/02/04/council-approves-police-drone-program-in-4-3-vote.md) - (THE SANTANERO) SANTA ANA, Calif. — The City Council voted 4–3 Tuesday night to approve a police drone program, following a tense and closely divided debate over the use of unmanned aerial technology. The decision authorizes the city to move forward with the agreement outlined in the staff report,…
- [18 year-old shot, killed by police after short pursuit](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2026/01/29/19-year-old-shot-killed-by-police-after-short-pursuit.md) - (THE SANTANERO — Santa Ana, Calif.) Santa Ana Police issued a press release at approximately 4:30 PM Thursday providing additional details about a deadly officer-involved shooting that occurred Wednesday night. According to the Santa Ana Police Department, the shooting occurred on around 10:29 PM W…
- [City Council Recap: Jan. 20, 2026](https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2026/01/26/city-council-recap-jan-20-2026.md) - Here's your recap of the Santa Ana City Council meeting held on Jan. 20, 2026 with added disclosure by co-founder Daniel Diaz.
- [Audit dispute sparks clash between Vazquez and police union](https://www.santanero.org/news/news/2025/10/06/audit-dispute-sparks-clash-between-vazquez-and-police-union.md) - An initial audit claimed the Santa Ana police union’s health trust was overpaid by millions while running a deficit. The same day Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez requested a state probe, a revised audit corrected the overpayment and showed the deficit was covered by reserves.
- [Say hello to WAVE, the new OCTA bus pass coming October](https://www.santanero.org/news/news/2025/10/01/say-hello-to-wave-the-new-octa-bus-pass.md) - Goodbye paper, hello plastic.
- [Supreme Court allows racially profiling immigration raids to continue in Southern California—for now](https://www.santanero.org/news/news/2025/09/09/supreme-court-allows-racially-profiling-immigration-raids-to-continue-in-southern-california-for-now.md) - WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a 6-3 party-lined decision Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court has allowed racially profiling federal immigration raids in Southern California to continue, pausing a lower court’s order that found the operations likely unconstitutional earlier this summer. Despite the temporary res…
- [SAUSD unknowingly almost rehired teacher accused of killing wife with dementia](https://www.santanero.org/news/news/2025/08/13/sausd-unknowingly-almost-rehired-teacher-accused-of-killing-wife-with-dementia.md) - Justin Davidson, former math teacher at Middle College High School, was almost rehired by SAUSD—unaware of his arrest and charge for murder of his dementia-stricken wife.
- [Bass signed an executive order. Here's why Amezcua can't do that—and what it would take to change it](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/07/17/bass-signed-an-executive-order-heres-why-amezcua-cant-do-that-and-what-it-would-take-to-change-it.md) - Amezcua faced public criticism for not demanding the removal of ICE and the National Guard from Santa Ana. However, according to the City Attorney's office, the City Charter does not grant the authority to issue such an order.
- [OC Fair responds to ICE concerns](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/07/17/oc-fair-responds-to-ice-concerns.md) - The Orange County Fair opens Friday, but ICE concerns may deter some visitors, especially immigrants. Fair officials assure it's a safe fair for everyone and ICE doesn’t have free access.
- [Santa Ana Police warn against illegal fireworks — but will the 4th still erupt like a warzone amid political tension?](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/07/04/santa-ana-police-warn-against-illegal-fireworks-but-will-the-4th-still-erupt-like-a-warzone-amid-political-tension.md) - The Santanero says yes, but with slightly better air quality.
- [Agenda Preview: July 1, 2025 City Council Meeting](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/06/30/agenda-preview-july-1-2025-city-council-meeting.md) - Here's what The Santanero is monitoring ahead of Tuesday's city council meeting.
- [Landscaper with three Marine sons violently detained in Santa Ana; DHS alleges assault without evidence](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/21/landscaper-violently-detained-by-agents-has-three-marine-sons.md) - A Tustin landscaper has been identified by his eldest Marine vet son after he was violently detained by immigration agents in Santa Ana.
- [Santa Ana Police redact ICE tip disclosures after Essayli letter](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/20/santa-ana-police-redact-ice-tip-disclosures-after-essayli-letter-2.md) - Santa Ana Police redacted all ICE courtesy notifications following a June 6 letter from U.S. Attorney Essayli warning the city that disclosing them could violate federal law.
- [Ten days, 87 questions, little answers](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/20/ten-days-87-questions-little-answers.md) - Transparency has been the key to keeping equilibrium between Santaneros and local officials. It is what keeps the relationship trustworthy when times get tough. Over the past ten days, The Santanero has taken the necessary steps to engage with public officials, submitting a total of 87 questions me…
- [Public obliterates Amezcua; told to support, resign, or be recalled](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/06/19/public-obliterates-amezcua-told-to-support-resign-or-be-recalled.md) - Accused of inaction and betrayal, Amezcua was confronted by residents who demanded accountability and change, or be removed.
- [Recap: June 17, 2025 City Council Meeting](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/17/recap-june-17-2025-city-council-meeting.md) - CITY HALL — After a week of federal immigration enforcement actions in Santa Ana — which sparked mostly peaceful protests across the city — residents are expressing outrage over Mayor Valerie Amezcua’s apparent three-day silence and her eventual decision to side with law enforcement. Frustrated San…
- [Sprouts to replace former 99 Cents Only Store at Bristol Warner Village](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/17/sprouts-to-replace-former-99-cents-only-store-at-bristol-warner-village.md) - It has been over a year since the former 99 Cents Only Store closed permanently at the corner of Bristol and Warner. After sitting vacant for more than 12 months, the property's longtime owner, NewMark Merrill, announced Thursday that a lease has been signed with Sprouts Farmers Market. “We’re prou…
- [Mater Dei alumni demand end to police drone operations on campus](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/17/mater-dei-alumni-demand-end-to-police-drone-operations-on-campus.md) - Mater Dei High School administration received a letter Monday from alumni expressing strong disapproval and calling for the immediate retraction of the school’s partnership with the Santa Ana Police Department and other law enforcement agencies. The controversy centers on the use of the Mater Dei c…
- [Decline in cars and foot traffic signals uncertain future for businesses and City budget](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/16/decline-in-cars-and-foot-traffic-signals-uncertain-future-for-businesses-and-city-budget.md) - Santa Ana streets have seen a noticeable decline in activity following federal immigration raids that began last Monday. With the National Guard maintaining a visible presence along East Fourth Street and Santa Ana Boulevard and ongoing protests, many residents are avoiding the Downtown area—a shif…
- [Online recall effort launched against Amezcua](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/13/online-recall-effort-launched-against-amezcua.md) - A change.org petition was established Friday in efforts to recall Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua who has recevied a firewall of backlash from Santaneros for what many call a “lack” of response and an overexaggeration of words used in her Monday Facebook post. Amezcua was interviewed by ABC7 Thursd…
- [Mater Dei 'drone operation' hints at SAPD's tactics in protest dispersal; Brennan clarifies they're not working with ICE but a donor and alumni say that's not enough](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/13/mater-dei-drone-operation-hints-at-sapds-tactics-in-protest-dispersal-brennan-clarifies-theyre-not-working-with-ice-but-a-donor-and-alumni-say-thats-not-enough.md) - An anonymous donor to Mater Dei High School has withdrawn support after learning that President Michael Brennan allowed Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD) and other unidentified local law enforcement agencies to use the school campus as a staging area Tuesday for "drone operations." As of now, SAPD…
- [Social media post shows apparent death threat towards Mayor Amezcua](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/12/social-media-post-shows-apparent-death-threat-towards-mayor-amezcua.md) - Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua posted Wednesday to her social media a screenshot of an apparent death threat. The post came from a user on Instagram posted to their story saying "Kill your local politician now!" The user is not identified in the post. "A clear death threat!!!" writes Amezcua. "No…
- [Officer cusses out Santanero journalist covering chaos on Fourth Street, another jests](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/12/officer-cusses-out-santanero-journalist-covering-chaos-on-fourth-street-another-jests.md) - Daniel Diaz, the sole staff member of The Santanero, was livestreaming and reporting the events unfolding early Thursday where Santa Ana Police officers shot rubber bullets and other canisters at protesters with no warning or unlawful assembly order given. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKyxOUnuM9O…
- [Santa Ana Police shoot rubber bullets at protesters without warning](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/06/12/santa-ana-police-shoot-rubber-bullets-at-protesters-without-warning.md) - ⚠️This article has been updated to include injuries, vehicle damage, and results of submitted public records requests. A peaceful demonstration protesting President Trump's mass deportation plans and recent ICE activity in Santa Ana began Wednesday afternoon on Fourth and Birch Street, directly whe…
- [SAUSD finalizes layoffs for 262 certificated staff after legal review](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/28/sausd-finalizes-layoffs-for-262-certificated-staff-after-legal-review-2.md) - (SAUSD HQ) — The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education has formally voted to issue final layoff notices to 262 certificated employees, according to Resolution No. 24/25-3680 passed during the board's May 19 special meeting. The layoffs follow the district’s January resolution to redu…
- [SAUSD finalizes layoffs for 262 certificated staff after legal review](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/20/sausd-finalizes-layoffs-for-262-certificated-staff-after-legal-review.md) - — Originally published May 19, 2025 - 8:53 PM — The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education has formally voted to issue final layoff notices to 262 certificated employees, according to Resolution No. 24/25-3680 passed during the board's May 19 special meeting. The layoffs follow the di…
- [Administrative judge makes final ruling on SAUSD layoffs; Board to consider rulings Monday](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/15/administrative-judge-makes-final-ruling-on-sausd-layoffs-board-to-consider-rulings-monday.md) - An administrative judge has issued a proposed decision on SAUSD’s planned layoffs, but the final call on staff cuts will be made by the school board during a special meeting Monday.
- [Lorin Griset student dies by suicide, SAUSD confrims](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/10/loren-griest-student-dies-by-suicide-sausd-confrims.md) - — Published May 9, 2025, 5:48 PM, Updated May 9, 2025, 6:28 PM — 💡A GoFundMe has been set up for Adrian Quintanilla by his family. Click here to be redirected. BELLA VISTA N.H. — A male 11th grader who attended Lorin Griset Academy died by suicide at his home on Wednesday, the Santa Ana Unified Sc…
- [The Kids Are Not Alright.](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/08/the-kids-are-not-alright.md) - Like the headline says, the kids are not alright. Here in Santa Ana, we’re seeing it in real time-young Santaneros being steered down paths paved with consequences that are entirely preventable. People ask: why? Why do we continue to accept tragedy as a way of life in this city? Why have we grown n…
- [The Kids Are Not Alright.](https://www.santanero.org/news/editorial/2025/05/08/editorial-the-kids-are-not-alright.md) - — Published May 7, 2025, 9:57 PM — Like the headline says, the kids are not alright. Here in Santa Ana, we’re seeing it in real time—young Santaneros being steered down paths paved with consequences that are entirely preventable. People ask: why? Why do we continue to accept tragedy as a way of lif…
- [Main Teriyaki and Burger sells its last burger](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/05/08/main-teriyaki-and-burger-sells-its-last-burger.md) - The Main Street burger joint announced earlier this month its closure and sold its last burger early Wednesday after community members raced for last chance at the famous teriyaki burger.
- [Santa Ana Police received 42 immigration enforcement notices, withheld telling public](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/05/05/santa-ana-police-received-42-immigration-enforcement-notices-withheld-telling-public.md) - According to publication Inadvertent, a public records request shows that ICE and/or DHS notified Santa Ana Police of enforcement activities and did not tell the public.
- [SAUSD shifts stance in third statement, clears players amid ongoing CIF baseball sanctions](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/05/03/sausd-shifts-stance-in-third-statement-clears-players-amid-ongoing-cif-baseball-sanctions.md) - Santa Ana Unified issued a revised statement clearing Segerstrom student-athletes of rule violations, as protests, petitions, and pending records requests keep tensions high.
- [First of several streetcars arrive in Santa Ana](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/30/first-of-several-streetcars-arrive-in-santa-ana.md) - As OCTA's Streetcar project nears completion, the first car was delivered early in the morning Wednesday, with more coming this month.
- [SAUSD's transparency questioned as dual crises on staff cuts, CIF fallout ensue](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2025/04/22/sausds-transparency-questioned-as-dual-crises-on-staff-cuts-cif-fallout-ensue.md) - — First published Apr. 22, 2025, 1:00 PM – Updated Apr. 22, 2025, 1:29 PM — The Santa Ana Unified School District is battling two major problems: its budget deficit that has resulted in nearly 400 pink slips to certificates staff and fallout of Segerstrom’s CIF sanctions. As frustration grows among…
- [SAPD celebrates Easter with annual road closures for 'unpermitted' enforcement](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/20/sapd-celebrates-easter-with-annual-road-closures-for-unpermitted-enforcement.md) - For decades, police have shut down streets to deter Easter Sunday lowrider cruisers, but with cruising now legal and the culture evolving, critics call it a waste of taxpayer money and a hassle for residents trying to attend mass and celebrate.
- [Segerstrom principal, baseball coach removed after CIF violations confirmed; students fire back with petitions](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/18/segerstrom-principal-baseball-coach-removed-after-cif-violations-confirmed-students-fire-back-with-petitions.md) - An alleged 'pay-for-play' scandal has barred the Jaguars varsity baseball team from playoffs until next spring, but students say that's not cause for removal of their principal.
- [Five lives, one grieving city](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/12/five-lives-one-grieving-city.md) - How the deaths of five young Santaneros have left an entire city grieving, shocked, and starting a tough conversation on responsibility.
- [How to support the families of the car crash victims](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/04/12/how-to-support-the-families-of-the-car-crash-victims.md) - A list of GoFundMe's, kermeses, and fundraisers for the Santa Ana families of victims who passed away in last Saturday's car accident.
- [SAUSD issues pink slips; layoff hearing set for late April](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/03/12/sausd-issues-pink-slips-layoff-hearing-set-for-late-april.md) - SAUSD has issued layoff notices to hundreds of certificated staff as the District faces an $187 million deficit.
- [CalOptima expands street medicine program to Santa Ana](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/03/07/caloptima-expands-street-medicine-program-to-santa-ana.md) - Outscoring three other Orange County cities, the program is expected to launch later this year to help homeless individuals with healthcare and start a path to securing housing.
- [Santa Ana recognized for innovation in development & housing](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/03/07/santa-ana-recognized-for-innovation-in-development-housing.md) - SANTA ANA, Calif. — The City of Santa Ana was honored at the Orange County Business Council’s 14th Annual Turning Red Tape into Red Carpet Awards, winning recognition for three projects that streamline development and expand affordable housing, according to a press release. The city received an hon…
- [No, Mayor Amezcua is not working with ICE](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/02/04/no-mayor-amezcua-is-not-working-with-ice.md) - Protests erupt as a misleading editorial spreads disinformation.
- [SAUSD Board votes 4-1 to layoff hundreds of educators, makes cuts to supplies and services](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/02/02/sausd-board-votes-4-1-to-layoff-hundreds-of-educators-makes-other-cuts.md) - An estimated 280 teachers, counselors, and socials workers are among those affected.
- [School Board Recap - Jan. 28, 2025](https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2025/01/30/school-board-recap-jan-28-2025.md) - Review of this week's SAUSD school board meeting.
- [OCTA to launch WAVE, a smart fare-capping system for riders](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/01/30/octa-to-launch-wave-a-smart-fare-capping-system-for-riders.md) - Goodbye paper, hello plastic.
- [SAUSD to vote on hundreds layoffs amid budget constraints](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2025/01/27/sausd-to-vote-on-hundreds-layoffs-amid-budget-constraints.md) - In Brief... The SAUSD School Board is expected to vote on laying off 546 certificated positions, including 340 teachers and 94 counselors, amid a $187 million deficit. These layoffs come after several combining factors led to the District having to make this decision. Due to years of declining enro…
- [2025: A Glass Half-Full Year for Santa Ana](https://www.santanero.org/news/editorial/2025/01/06/2025-a-glass-half-full-year-for-santa-ana.md) - This year has the potential to be transformative for Santa Ana—full of challenges and opportunities. From looming budget cuts to exciting new developments, 2025 promises to keep residents on their toes. City Council In 2024, the Santa Ana City Council warned residents of impending budget cuts, driv…
- [Combined Local Gov. Recap - Dec. 17 & 19, 2024](https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2024/12/21/combined-local-gov-recap-dec-17-19-2024.md) - Good day Santaneros! It’s Saturday, December 21st, also known as the busiest start of the weekend for last-minute shopping ahead of the holidays. As announced on Friday, this is The Santanero’s first ever combined edition of the Recap Series involving this week’s city council and school board meeti…
- [Council votes 7-0 to ban encampments and unhoused addicts from public spaces](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/12/21/council-votes-7-0-to-ban-encampments-and-unhoused-addicts-from-public-spaces.md) - In Brief... * The Santa Ana City Council voted unanimously to ban any type of encampment and prohibits those unhoused from sleeping in public right-of-ways. The law will take effect a month after another vote in January 2025. * The way it'll be enforced will comprise of the Santa Ana Police Departm…
- [Santa Ana Unified approves  'stabilization plan' to cut 351 certificated staff, spares management](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/12/20/santa-ana-unified-approves-stabilization-plan-to-cut-351-certificated-staff-spares-management.md) - In Brief... * The SAUSD school board voted 4-1 to lay off—at minimum—351 employees, including 169 teachers and 57 counselors in order to avoid budget deficits that would render the Board irresponsible and taken over by the County or State. The District could not say what the max amount of staff lay…
- [Robert Rodriguez appointed new Santa Ana police chief](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/12/17/robert-rodriguez-appointed-new-santa-ana-police-chief.md) - SANTA ANITA — After spending over a year as interim police chief after David Valetin's sudden resignation, City Manager Alvaro Nuñez announced Tuesday during an event at Russell Elementary that Robert Rodriguez was appointed as Santa Ana police's new chief, according to a press release. Via press r…
- [The Morning Digest: Nov. 20, 2024](https://www.santanero.org/news/morning-digest/2024/11/21/the-morning-digest-nov-20-2024.md) - Good morning Santaneros! It's Thursday, Nov. 20th and here's this week's Morning Digest. ☀️ LOCAL EYE Council tables revising ordinances on homelessness until Dec. 17th The Council voted 6-1 on Tuesday to table taking action on Item 32, a proposal that, if approved, would amend ordinances to update…
- [Council tables revising ordinances on homelessness until Dec. 17th](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/11/21/council-tables-revising-ordinances-on-homelessness-until-dec-17th.md) - 📰This story is part of our Recap Series. CITY HALL — The Council voted 6-1 on Tuesday to table taking action on Item 32, a proposal that, if approved, would amend ordinances to update regulations concerning unhoused individuals on public property. Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez was the sole dissen…
- [Council upholds CPU for Maharajah House; divided neighbors speak, some with racial undertones](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/11/21/council-upholds-cpu-for-maharajah-house-divided-neighbors-speak-some-with-racial-undertones.md) - 📰This story is part of our Recap Series. CITY HALL — A home in the Floral Park neighborhood was the center of attention Tuesday after divided residents voiced their opinions, some with racial undertones, on whether or not to uphold the Planning Commission's decision in approving a conditional use…
- [Council spars during proposed apology to Edgar Vargas’ family](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/11/21/council-spars-during-proposed-apology-to-edgar-vargas-family.md) - 📰This story is part of our Recap Series. CITY HALL — The Council threw jabs at eachother Tuesday while discussing to give direction to City staff to draft a resolution apologizing to the family of Edgar Vargas-Azarte. In brief, Vargas was falsely accused of attacking Santa Ana police officers duri…
- [Lopez puts forth item that will ban city officials involving their family in contracts](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/11/14/lopez-puts-forth-item-that-will-ban-city-officials-involving-their-family-in-contracts.md) - SANTA ANA, Calif. — Councilmember Jessie Lopez has agendized an item that will prohibit city officials from allowing their immediate family members to be involved or partake in a contract with the city. This comes as disgraced Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do plead guilty to misusing COVID funds…
- [Introducing the Leaflet](https://www.santanero.org/news/newsroom/2024/10/31/introducing-the-leaflet.md) - The Santanero is embarking on a new journey its phased approach of becoming a consistent newspaper. Instead of publishing four pages every week, we are striving to achieve one to two page summaries called a Leaflet, on the happenings in our city, Santa Ana. While we understand the community’s inter…
- [Special City Council Meeting Recap: Oct. 28, 2024](https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2024/10/30/special-city-council-meeting-recap-oct-28-2024.md) - If you'd like the BottomLine, scroll to the end. CITY HALL — The Santa Ana City Council convened Tuesday to decide the fate of Councilmember Hernandez after an ad-hoc committee and independent investigative report concluded there was evidence of him violating the City Charter and Code of Ethics. Th…
- [Council to seek guidance in moving forward with alleged charter violations against Hernandez](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/10/25/council-to-seek-guidance-in-moving-forward-with-alleged-charter-violations-against-hernandez.md) - ⚠️The Santanero has not received or obtained a final report of the investigations and will not revise this or future articles to relieve parties involved in the investigations until the final report has been obtained and reviewed by The Santanero. SANTA ANA, Calif. — The Santa Ana City Council will…
- [City Council Recap: Oct. 15, 2024](https://www.santanero.org/news/recap-series/2024/10/16/city-council-recap-oct-15-2024.md) - TBC: Carvalho says Amezcua beat allegations, Hernandez found in violation of three city codes ⚠️This is part of our Recap series. A full article on the investigations will be published later this week after receiving comments on parties involved. Follow our social media for updates. The following i…
- [Santa Ana candidates to meet in back-to-back forums](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/09/05/santa-ana-candidates-to-meet-in-back-to-back-forums.md) - SANTA ANA, Calif. — The Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce and the City community-link sector announced Tuesday that each will hold its own forum with candidates for mayor and city council. The first of two forums will be hosted by the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce and is scheduled to be held on Wednesd…
- [Encampment cleared, dozens arrested at UC Irvine](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/05/16/encampment-cleared-dozens-arrested-at-uc-irvine.md) - IRVINE, Calif. — Over a dozen law enforcement agencies, including Santa Ana Police, responded to a mutual aid request by UC Irvine administration shortly before 3:00 PM Wednesday after reports of a Palestinian solidarity group occupying the Physical Science Lecture Hall, a campus building. Sources…
- [Council unanimously rejects needle-exchange proposal](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/04/17/council-unanimously-rejects-needle-exchange-proposal.md) - In a rare sight, the Santa Ana City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to oppose the establishment of a needle-exchange program initiated and run by Harm Reduction Institute. The Council wasn’t alone in rejecting the proposal. Dozens of residents voiced their concerns during public comments and subm…
- [City readying to tackle against needle-exchange program, again](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/04/12/city-readying-to-tackle-against-needle-exchange-program-again.md) - SAPD COMMUNITY ROOM — City officials are preparing to oppose the Harm Reduction Institute’s (HRI) plans to launch a needle-exchange program in Santa Ana, following the organization’s second attempt to secure approval from the California Department of Public Health (CPDH). Needle-exchange programs a…
- [99 Cents Only Stores files bankruptcy; all locations to close](https://www.santanero.org/news/local-eye/2024/04/05/99-cents-only-stores-files-bankruptcy-all-locations-to-close.md) - 99 Cents Only Stores operators have decided to file bankruptcy and liquidate all 371 locations starting Friday. The move comes after persistent challenges that remained well after the coronavirus pandemic. “This was an extremely difficult decision and is not the outcome we expected or hoped to achi…
- [Youth Commission faces uncertain future](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/04/05/youth-commission-faces-uncertain-future.md) - The youth commission is facing tough questions after its Council-picked appointees have failed to attend meetings at City Hall. According to city staff, not enough members have showed up to establish a quorum. The staff report laid out five options: Staff Report's Options 1. Keep Youth Commission a…
- [Newly Released Documents Show Santa Ana Police Union's Grip on Santa Ana Mayor](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/03/29/newly-released-documents-show-santa-ana-police-unions-grip-on-santa-ana-mayor.md) - City records allege Mayor Amezcua ousted two top officials as a favor for cops and violated state open meeting law 📰This article has been re-published from KnockLA with permission. In what appears to be a political favor to the Santa Ana Police Officers Association, Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua…
- [Council to consider prohibiting short-term rentals citywide](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/03/26/council-to-consider-prohibiting-short-term-rentals-citywide.md) - SANTA ANA, Calif. — The Santa Ana City Council will consider adopting and urgency ordinance that would explicitly prohibit short-term rentals (STRs). This includes Airbnb’s and Vrbo’s. Besides the noise complaints reported by nextdoor neighbors of STRs, and added issues to parking and trash, the he…
- [Governor Newsom extends deadline of FAFSA to May 2](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/03/26/governor-newsom-extends-deadline-of-fafsa-to-may-2.md) - SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that extends the deadline for California students to submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to May 2. AB 1887, introduced by Assemblywoman Cervantes (D-Riverside) quickly passed through the California Legisla…
- [City Council votes 4-1 to approve redlined ceasefire resolution](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/03/06/city-council-votes-4-1-to-approve-redlined-ceasefire-resolution.md) - SANTA ANA, Calif. — The City Council voted 4-1 (with two absences by Councilmembers Bacerra and Penaloza) to adopt a redlined resolution by Councilmember Phan calling a bilateral ceasefire, releasing of all hostages, and to establish diplomacy on both sides. As Councilmember Vazquez began his final…
- [Child shot while sitting in car says SAPD](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/02/26/child-shot-while-sitting-in-car-says-sapd.md) - 17TH/SPURGEON — A female toddler was shot while sitting in her parents’ car according to Santa Ana Police. The child was rushed to nearby CHOC in critical condition. It is unclear as to how the shooting unfolded late Sunday. Santa Ana Police continues their investigation and has closed off blocks s…
- [Press calls City’s media rules unlawful](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/01/11/press-calls-citys-media-rules-unlawful.md) - A comprehensive protest against Santa Ana's new media policy at public meetings has been launched by the First Amendment Coalition, with support from various journalistic entities, including The Santanero. In a detailed letter to Thomas R. Hatch, the interim city manager, the Coalition strongly cri…
- [OCTA will add trip to 150 route during the morning rush](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2024/01/08/octa-will-add-trip-to-150-route-during-the-morning-rush.md) - 📰This is an update to an opinion piece written by Daniel Diaz, a 150 bus route daily commuter (and El Santanero’s community reporter), published late last year. After numerous attempts by residents calling on OCTA to add a route to the morning rush of the 150, I reached out in late fall and OCTA r…
- [Statement on the City of Santa Ana's media policies](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2023/12/23/statement-on-the-city-of-santa-anas-media-policies.md) - Our emailed statement to Interim City Manager Thomas R. Hatch can be found here. Our social media statement is as follows: “El Santanero acknowledges the city’s regulations regarding media access to public meetings. We believe that these rules might conflict with state and federal laws that safegua…
- [Gerry Serrano promoted to unemployment by City](https://www.santanero.org/news/all/2023/08/01/gerry-serrano-promoted-to-unemployment-by-city.md) - SANTA ANA, Calif. — Gerry Serrano has “been separated” from working with the City’s police union officials said Monday. “Mr. Serrano has been separated from City service pending retirement pursuant to a confidential personnel matter,” said Paul Eakins, the city’s public information officer. For yea…

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