Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Orange Lutheran climbs to the top of the Orange County softball rankings

• Upcoming CA Wine Festival

• A deep-dive into the life of James Roosevelt

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Nobody can bring you peace but yourself."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Orange County's "The Great Park" is located on the site of which former military facility?

A) El Toro Marine Corps Air Station

B) Tustin Marine Corps Air Station

C) Fort MacArthur

D) Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach

Answer to Week 11's Trivia: The "Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum" is located in A) Yorba Linda.

News

💼 Business

STAAR Surgical Co., specializing in implantable eye lenses, saw its shares increase by 6% to $52.45 on April 9. (Link)

Speaker Robert Rivas and Assembly Democrats are set to unveil legislation aimed at curbing retail theft, as first reported in the California Playbook by POLITICO. (Link)

Residents of Orange County donned safety glasses on April 8 to observe a rare solar eclipse, turning their gazes skyward for the celestial event. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Orange Lutheran climbs to the top of the Orange County softball rankings after a pivotal victory over Pacifica at the Michelle Carew Classic on April 8. (Link)

Holly Barker from Trabuco Hills earns the title of Orange County girls athlete of the week with her standout performance. (Link)

Following a triumph at the Boras Classic South, Mater Dei ascends two spots to secure the fourth position in the Orange County high school baseball rankings as of April 8. (Link)

Huntington Beach and Orange Lutheran aim to extend their streak of success at the NHSI baseball tournament in North Carolina, highlighting the ongoing dominance of Orange County teams in the sport. (Link)

🏦 Finance

STAAR Surgical Co.'s stock saw a significant increase, up 6% to $52.45, highlighting the company's success in the implantable eye lenses market on April 9. (Link)

Dallas Fed President Logan warned it's "much too soon" for interest rate cuts, referencing persistent high inflation and an economy seemingly unaffected by current borrowing costs. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🎶 EHA & Made Hoops Mania
The Map Sports Facility, Garden Grove
Friday, April 19 || More Info

Music & Concerts

🍷 CA Wine Festival 
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa and Sea Terrace Park, Dana Point
Friday April 19, 2024 |6:30 – 9:00 PM | More Info

🍷 CA Wine Festival 
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa and Sea Terrace Park, Dana Point
Saturday April 20, 2024 | 1:00 – 4:00 PM | More Info

🎉 Hanamatsuri Festival 
909 S Dale Ave, Anaheim
April 20 & 21, 2024 | 1:00-7:00 PM. | More Info

🍇 Orange County Wine Fest 
The Hangar at OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
April 20-21, 2024 | More Info

Family

🪴 Veggiepalooza Plant Sale .
Fullerton Arboretum, Fullerton
 April 18-20, 2024 | Thursday-Friday: 12–4 p.m.; Saturday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m | More Info

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Orange County, CA where every building is a work of abstract art.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Orange County Historical Events

UC Irvine establishment (1965) - The opening of a major public university boosted education and research.

The establishment of the University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine) in 1965 marked a significant milestone in the enhancement of higher education and research in Orange County, California. As a major public university, its opening was fueled by the post-World War II educational boom and the burgeoning growth of Southern California. The decision to place a UC campus in Irvine was driven by both the availability of land and the vision of local leaders and the Irvine Company, which donated 1,000 acres for this purpose. This generous allocation of land not only facilitated the campus's initial development but also allowed for its expansive growth over the decades.

UC Irvine was conceived with the idea of creating a forward-looking research institution that would cater to the educational needs of a growing population while driving innovation and economic growth. From its inception, the university attracted distinguished faculty and ambitious students, quickly establishing itself as a center for academic excellence. The initial academic offerings were designed to cater to the demands of the time, with a focus on science, engineering, and the arts. The campus's unique design, featuring the prominent Aldrich Park, emphasized an interconnectedness between different disciplines, fostering a collaborative environment that has fueled cross-disciplinary research and innovation.

Over the years, UC Irvine has not only significantly boosted higher education in Orange County but has also been a major contributor to the region's research output and economic development. Its growth into a rigorous academic institution offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees has attracted students from all over the world. The university's commitment to research excellence is evident in its numerous accolades and its designation as a Public Ivy. Furthermore, UC Irvine has played a pivotal role in developing the local economy, through innovations in fields such as medicine, engineering, information technology, and environmental science, thereby fulfilling its founding mission and exceeding expectations through its contributions to society and the world at large.

Famous People In Orange County History

James Roosevelt (1907-1991)

James Roosevelt, the eldest son of Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President of the United States, was a U.S. Congressman, a businessman, and a significant figure in Orange County, California. His life exemplifies public service, political acumen, and successful entrepreneurship, earning him a distinguished place in American history.

Childhood and Early Influence (1907-1926)

James Roosevelt was born into a life of privilege and public service, the son of one of America's most influential and revered political figures. Growing up in Hyde Park, New York, he was steeped in an environment that valued leadership and commitment to the common good, which deeply influenced his career choices and ambitions.

Education and Early Career (1927-1940)

He graduated from Harvard University in 1930 and briefly attended Boston University Law School before embarking on a series of business ventures. Though initially distant from the political sphere, Roosevelt's roles in various industries, including insurance and film in Hollywood, laid the groundwork for his understanding of American business and labor.

Military Service and Political Awakening (1941-1945)

With the outbreak of World War II, James Roosevelt served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps, earning the Navy Cross and the Silver Star for his bravery and leadership. His military service, particularly in the Pacific Theater, profoundly affected him, galvanizing his resolve to contribute meaningfully to public life and policy.

Entering the Political Arena (1946-1954)

After the war, Roosevelt turned to politics, successfully running for Congress in California's 26th district in 1945. He served six terms, where he championed social welfare programs, labor rights, and policies reflecting the ideals of the New Deal initiated by his father, President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Orange County and Business Ventures (1955-1965)

In the mid-1950s, James Roosevelt moved to Orange County, a rapidly growing region in California. Here, he became a significant developer and businessman, contributing to the area's economic and residential growth. His involvement in Orange County showcased his ability to blend entrepreneurship with a keen sense of community development.

Further Political Engagements (1966-1974)

Although he left Congress in 1955, Roosevelt remained politically active, serving in various roles, including being appointed as a delegate to the United Nations by President Kennedy. His political engagement during this period underscored his enduring commitment to public service and international diplomacy.

Advocacy and Public Service (1975-1985)

In his later years, Roosevelt focused on advocacy work, particularly in areas related to social security and the elderly. He became an influential voice for senior citizens, leveraging his experience and platform to protect and enhance the welfare of older Americans.

Legacy and Later Years (1986-1991)

Towards the end of his life, James Roosevelt’s contributions to American society, both in politics and business, were widely recognized. He remained active in public discussions and advocacy until his passing in 1991, leaving a legacy of dedication to service and the American public.

Remembering James Roosevelt (1991 and Beyond)

James Roosevelt passed away in 1991, but his legacy lives on through his contributions to American politics, business, and society. His life's work, marked by a steadfast commitment to public service and entrepreneurial success, continues to serve as an inspiration.

Key Achievements of James Roosevelt:

• Served as a U.S. Congressman representing California's 26th district, championing labor rights and social welfare programs.

• Elected to six terms in Congress, showcasing his political acumen and dedication to public service.

• Became a successful businessman and developer in Orange County, influencing the region's economic and residential growth.

• Earned the Navy Cross and the Silver Star for his distinguished military service during World War II.

• Advocated for senior citizens’ rights, significantly contributing to the enhancement of social security and elderly welfare.

James Roosevelt's biography is a testament to a life well-lived, marked by public service, military valor, political success, and business acumen. As the son of one of America's most revered Presidents, he carved out his own legacy, making significant contributions to American society, particularly in Orange County, California, where he left a lasting impact. His dedication to improving the lives of Americans, both in his public and private endeavors, continues to inspire future generations.

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-Matthew Larsen

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