Fountain Valley Renames Sports Park Entrance to Ed Arnold Way

News Summary

Fountain Valley has renamed the entrance to its Sports Park to Ed Arnold Way in honor of the late sportscaster and community advocate. The decision follows Arnold’s passing due to heart failure. Renaming aims to celebrate his contributions to local sports journalism and community service. A ceremony is planned to celebrate his legacy, providing community members an opportunity to commemorate Arnold’s impact.

Fountain Valley has officially honored the late sportscaster Ed Arnold by renaming the entrance to the Fountain Valley Sports Park to Ed Arnold Way. The decision, made during a recent city council meeting, comes following Arnold’s passing on April 10 at the age of 85 due to heart failure. This recognition reflects his longstanding contribution to both the sports community and the city of Fountain Valley.

The entrance to Ed Arnold Way will be located off Brookhurst Street at Heil Avenue, creating a visible tribute to an individual who was not only a prominent sports reporter but also a cherished member of the Fountain Valley community. The city council unanimously approved the renaming, aligning with Arnold’s legacy of community service and involvement.

Ed Arnold was known for his extensive work as a sports reporter throughout Southern California, including notable tenures at KTLA and KABC. He made Fountain Valley his home in 1973, where he became deeply involved in community efforts. His contributions reached beyond journalism; he was a founding member of the Fountain Valley Rotary Club, played a crucial role in the Special Olympics in Southern California, and actively supported the Boys & Girls Club of Huntington Valley.

The idea to honor Arnold with a renaming was discussed as a way to recognize his dedication to the community. Other options included renaming Ellis Park, but the council decided on the sports park entrance due to its high visibility. Councilman Glenn Grandis advocated for this choice, noting its proximity to the Boys & Girls Club, where Arnold was a significant advocate and board member.

During the city council meeting, Council Vice Mayor Jim Cunneen emphasized how important it was to honor Arnold in spaces connected to his family and community involvement. The renaming aligns with the city’s policy regarding park names, which states that nearby parks must be named after schools, while other spaces can adopt geographical naming conventions.

Ed Arnold’s contributions to local organizations and events have left a lasting impact on the community. He served in the United States Marine Corps and was actively engaged in fundraising efforts covering various charitable causes. His influence can be traced through many community stories that illustrate the lives he touched throughout his lifetime.

To celebrate the renaming, a recognition ceremony is scheduled for July 31 during the Concert in the Park event. This event will provide community members with an opportunity to take photographs with the new street sign and will feature a commemorative sign presented to Arnold’s family. This public gathering is set to acknowledge not only Arnold’s legacy but also the continued work he championed within the community.

Arnold’s legacy as a sportscaster, community advocate, and family man will live on through this dedication. As Fountain Valley embraces the renaming of Ed Arnold Way, the city pays homage to an individual who not only excelled in sports journalism but also made a significant difference in the lives of many.

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Additional Resources

• Los Angeles Times: Fountain Valley to honor Ed Arnold
• Orange County Register: Longtime sportscaster Ed Arnold dies at 85
• Hollywood Reporter: Ed Arnold dead, broadcaster
• Orange County Register: Koces, Ed Arnold is not the story, darn it
• Patch: Former Mayor dies after battling cancer
• Wikipedia: Ed Arnold (sportscaster)
• Google Search: Ed Arnold sports reporter
• Google Scholar: Ed Arnold sports journalism
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Ed Arnold
• Google News: Ed Arnold Fountain Valley