At Celebrate Santa Ana on May 8th, 2008 Oldrich and Ivana were presented with Com-Link's 2008 Neighborhood Hero Award. They were nominated by the board of the Washnington Square Neighborhood Association and all we can say is that the recognition is long overdue.

From L to R: WSNA Vice President Lynnette Verino, WSNA Newsletter Editor Jean-Louise Jirik, 2008 Heros Ivana and Oldrich Unger, Com-Link Secretary Jean Poppa, WSNA President Nancy Lutz and WSNA Past President Tom Lutz.

Oldrich and Ivana bought a fixer-upper on 10th Street in 1984 and have been fixtures in the neighborhood ever since.

They have appeared in many pictures on this website because they're always first to volunteer to help out with WSNA events. They're currently on the home page for helping with the Spring Clean Up.

They both attend WSNA board meetings and Ivana is currently the Association's secretary. Last fall Oldrich came up with an idea to make our neighborhood clean-ups more efficient. He designed and built a clean-up wagon that transports a generator, pressure washer, air compressor/sand blaster, ladder, hose and cleaning supplies. It's really expanded the scope of our clean-ups.

They often volunteer for projects outside the neighborhood too. Oldrich fabricated replacement hands for the Spurgeon Clock Tower on Fourth Street downtown.

Their home has been featured on the WSNA Home Tour many times. We're glad they chose Washington Square to make their home and glad they have finally been recognized. as heros.