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Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• CD interest rates drop, impact savers.

• Beach volleyball brings 3,000 tons sand.

• A deep-dive into the life of Nellie Gail Moulton.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.” 

–Pele

Sponsored

Investors have trusted this platform with +$1bn - here’s why

Through COVID, soaring inflation, and today’s crushing interest rates, a group of enterprising investors have collectively entrusted one billion dollars from their portfolios to Masterworks’ art investing platform.

Why? Because the contemporary art Masterworks offers—from legends like Picasso and Banksy—has demonstrated a low correlation to the stock market, inflation resistance, and exceptional appreciation potential. Not to mention Masterworks has completed 23 successful exits to date, distributing over $60+ million in net proceeds to investors in those offerings.

These investors didn’t need art expertise to diversify with blue-chip art, because Masterworks does all the heavy lifting, finding artists with appreciation potential (buying <3% of works offered) and then breaking an art offering into shares for you. If Masterworks sells a piece again for a profit, investors get a return. With 3 illustrative sales, Masterworks investors have realized net annualized returns of +17.6%, +17.8%, and +21.5%.

With 65,000+ investors, offerings can sell out quickly. Luckily, you can get priority access here.

Past performance is not indicative of future returns. Investment involves risk.

Disclosures:

The content is not intended to provide legal, tax, or investment advice.

No money is being solicited or will be accepted until the offering statement for a particular offering has been qualified by the SEC. Offers may be revoked at any time. Contacting Masterworks involves no commitment or obligation.

Contemporary art data based on repeat-sales index of historical Post-War & Contemporary Art market prices from 1995 to 2023, developed by Masterworks. There are significant limitations to comparative asset class data. Indices are unmanaged and a Masterworks investor cannot invest directly in an index. 

Net proceeds distributed back represents the total liquidation proceeds distributed back to investors, net of all fees, expenses and proceeds reinvested in Masterworks offerings, of all works Masterworks has exited to date.

See important Reg A disclosures at masterworks.com/cd.

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!

“Knott's Berry Farm," located in which Orange County city, is known for being America's first theme park and for its annual Halloween Haunt event?

A) Buena Park

B) Irvine

C) Anaheim

D) Fullerton

Answer to Week 36's Trivia:

The Orange County city that hosts the "Sawdust Art Festival" is A) Laguna Beach.

News

💼 Business

Interest rates on top-yielding CDs are dropping. Here’s what that means for savers. (link)

Lack of eviction data obscures extent of the affordable housing crisis. (link)

🏒 Sports

Alexander: When beach volleyball and 3,000 tons of sand came to Riverside. (link)

Rams RB Blake Corum keeps taking mental reps, even on sidelines. (link)

🏦 Finance

Refrigeration is changing the world in a ‘global cold rush’. (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

🥊 JIU JITSU WORKSHOP "THE GUARD" BY FABIAN SOTO
EDJ School of Jiu Jitsu 210 Dupont Street Corona, CA
Friday, Aug 23rd | 7 - 8:30pm | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Naima Bock
Barnsdall Gallery Theatre 4814 Hollywood Blvd Los Angeles, CA
Thursday, Aug 22nd | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎶 AUR
The Belasco Theater 1050 South Hill St Los Angeles, CA
Thursday, Aug 22nd 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎵 UNCABARET
El Cid 4212 W Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA
Friday, Aug 23rd | 6:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎭 The Scotty Mac Band
City of Baldwin Hills Summer Concerts in the Park - Baldwin Hills, CA
Thursday, Aug 22nd | 6:30 PM | (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 architecture is inspired by different musical genres” 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

The Bolsa Chica Wetlands conservation battles (1970s-1990s) - A significant environmental preservation effort.

The Bolsa Chica Wetlands, sprawling across the coastal areas of Orange County, California, became the epicenter of one of the most persistent environmental preservation efforts in the United States from the 1970s through the 1990s. This significant ecological area, comprising marshes, mudflats, and upland habitats, is a vital stopover for migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway and supports a diverse array of wildlife. Despite its ecological importance, the wetlands faced the threat of extensive development, prompted by the growing demand for housing and commercial spaces in Southern California. The proposed plans, which included high-density housing, commercial projects, and marinas, signaled a potential end to the ecological integrity and biodiversity of Bolsa Chica.

In response to the looming threat, a robust and dedicated grassroots conservation effort emerged. The Amigos de Bolsa Chica, the Bolsa Chica Land Trust, and the Friends of the Bolsa Chica, among other local groups, led the charge, uniting community members, scientists, and environmentalists in a common cause. These organizations spearheaded public awareness campaigns, educational programs, litigation, and lobbying efforts to safeguard the wetlands. Their tactics ranged from hosting bird walks and educational tours to increase public appreciation of Bolsa Chica's natural value, to engaging in legal battles against development proposals. The conservationists faced a formidable opponent in the powerful real estate interests pushing for development, but their persistence gradually swayed public opinion and policy towards preservation.

The relentless efforts of the conservation community culminated in significant achievements by the end of the 1990s. After decades of negotiation, activism, and litigation, a substantial portion of the Bolsa Chica Wetlands was preserved as open space, with the State of California acquiring 880 acres in 1997 for restoration and protection. This victory was not just a triumph for the environmental groups involved but also marked a critical turning point in the regional approach to coastal conservation. The preservation of the Bolsa Chica Wetlands stands as a testament to the power of grassroots activism in effecting environmental change, ensuring that this irreplaceable ecological treasure remains a haven for wildlife and a cherished natural resource for future generations.

Famous People In Orange County History

Nellie Gail Moulton - Philanthropist and artist, contributed to the cultural and educational institutions.

Nellie Gail Moulton: 1878-1972

Nellie Gail Moulton was a pivotal figure in art and philanthropy, whose impact on cultural and educational institutions spanned several decades. Her life story, from artist to benefactor, showcases the breadth of her contributions to American society, particularly within Orange County, California.

Early Life and Education (1878-1898)

Born in the late 19th century, Nellie Gail grew up in a time when opportunities for women, especially in the realms of art and education, were limited. Despite these constraints, she exhibited a profound interest in the arts from an early age, which set the stage for her later achievements. Her early education, focused on traditional academics, also included considerable exposure to the fine arts.

Pursuit of Art (1899-1915)

As she transitioned into adulthood, Nellie pursued her passion for painting, studying under various artists and attending art schools. This period was marked by her exploration of different styles and mediums, with a particular affinity for landscape and portrait painting. Her work, characterized by its vibrant colors and impressionistic style, began to gain recognition in local art circles.

Marriage and Family (1916-1930)

Nellie's personal life took a significant turn when she married Lewis Fenno Moulton, a prominent rancher, in 1908. Their union led her to relocate to Orange County, where she became deeply embedded in the community. Though her new life demanded more social and family-oriented responsibilities, Nellie managed to continue developing her art, drawing inspiration from the scenic beauty of her surroundings.

Artistic Development in Orange County (1931-1945)

Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Nellie Gail Moulton became an integral part of the artistic landscape in Orange County. Her ranch home and studio became a creative hub, where she not only worked on her paintings but also hosted gatherings for local artists. This period was marked by a prolific output of art, much of which depicted the natural landscapes and ranch life of the region.

Philanthropic Beginnings (1946-1955)

As she progressed in her career, Nellie Gail Moulton's focus shifted towards philanthropy. Initially, her contributions were in the realm of art, donating pieces to local institutions and supporting emerging artists. However, her philanthropic interests soon expanded to include education, particularly in providing scholarships for art students and funding for educational programs.

Expansion of Philanthropic Efforts (1956-1965)

Nellie's philanthropic efforts grew significantly during this period, extending beyond the arts to impact a wide range of cultural and educational institutions. She played a key role in the establishment of libraries, museums, and community centers, ensuring that they were accessible to all. Her vision was to create spaces that fostered learning and appreciation for the arts among diverse communities.

Legacy and Memory (1966-1972)

The final years of Nellie Gail Moulton's life were marked by a reflection on her legacy. She worked diligently to ensure that her philanthropic endeavors would continue beyond her lifetime, establishing foundations and trusts to support the arts and education. Her passing in 1972 was mourned by many who benefited from her generosity and vision, leaving a void in the community she had so profoundly impacted.

Key Achievements of Nellie Gail Moulton:

• Prolific artist known for her landscape and portrait paintings, marking her as a notable figure in early American impressionism.

• Significant contributor to the development of Orange County's cultural landscape, through both her artistic influence and philanthropic efforts.

• Founding benefactor of several cultural and educational institutions in Orange County, ensuring the accessibility of art and education for future generations.

• Advocate for young artists and students, providing scholarships and funding that supported numerous careers and educational pursuits.

Nellie Gail Moulton's life story is a testament to the impact one individual can have on their community through relentless dedication to art and philanthropy. Her contributions have not only enriched the cultural and educational heritage of Orange County, California, but also serve as an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and benefit society. Her journey from an aspiring artist to a philanthropic powerhouse underscores the power of passion, vision, and generosity in effecting lasting change.

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-Matthew Larsen

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