Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Digital ads tax hurts small businesses.

• Adell's homer secures Angels' comeback win.

• A deep-dive into the life of William Pereira.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it."

– Harper Lee

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!

The "Hilbert Museum of California Art" at Chapman University showcases works primarily from what genre of art?

A) Abstract Expressionism

B) California Impressionism

C) Pop Art

D) Modernism

Answer to Week 32's Trivia:

The annual Orange County sporting event that attracts top professional and amateur surfers to compete in Huntington Beach is A) The US Open of Surfing.

News

💼 Business

Proposed digital ads tax is terrible news for small businesses like my family’s bakery. (link)

Brothers Design Apparel With UFO Themes. (link)

🏒 Sports

Jo Adell’s late homer lifts Angels to comeback victory over Rockies. (link)

By bringing Jack Flaherty home, Dodgers saved the trade deadline. (link)

🏦 Finance

Warby Parker Sees Opportunity in South Coast Plaza. (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

🏃 The OC Fair 5K
88 Fair D Costa Mesa, CA
Sunday, Aug 11th | 8:00 AM | (More Info)

🎨 Pageant of the Masters
650 Laguna Canyon Road Laguna Beach, CA
Aug 8th - 11th | time varies | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Michael Wolff
Sam First 6171 W Century Blvd Los Angeles, CA
Thursday, Aug 8th | 9:30 PM | (More Info)

🎶 DJ Logic  
The Greek Theatre 2700 N Vermont Ave Los Angeles, CA
Thursday, Aug 8th | 6:55 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎭 Family Festival
3001 Blume Dr, Rossmoor, CA
Saturday, Aug 10th | (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 traditional and digital art forms merge in public spaces” 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 Swallows of Capistrano legend - The cultural and tourist attraction centered around the annual migration of swallows.

The Swallows of Capistrano is a captivating legend that has woven itself into the cultural tapestry of Orange County, California. Centered around the Mission San Juan Capistrano, this phenomenon involves the annual migration of cliff swallows from Argentina to the small town of San Juan Capistrano. According to local lore, the swallows first sought refuge at the mission in the 18th century, finding shelter in the ruins of the Great Stone Church after it was devastated by an earthquake. The return of these small, agile birds, traditionally on St. Joseph's Day (March 19th), heralds the arrival of spring, marking a centuries-old natural spectacle that has enchanted generations.

The legend and the actual migratory event have turned San Juan Capistrano into a bustling tourist destination, drawing visitors from all over the world. The town celebrates the swallows' return with a variety of festivities, including parades, street fairs, and educational events, all of which pay homage to the birds' remarkable journey. The celebration not only showcases the deep connection between the local community and its natural surroundings but also highlights the cultural significance of the mission itself. The Festival of the Swallows, as it's popularly known, features music, dance, and food, encapsulating the vibrant heritage of California and the mission's history in a lively annual event cherished by locals and tourists alike.

Over the years, the story of the Swallows of Capistrano has transcended its local roots to become a symbol of hope, renewal, and the unbreakable bonds between nature and culture. While modern developments and changing environmental factors have impacted the swallows' nesting habits, efforts have been made to entice the birds back to the mission, including the installation of artificial nests and playing recorded swallow calls. The enduring legend of the swallows, embodied in the heart of Orange County, continues to inspire and attract those drawn to the mystical charm of this natural wonder, making it an enduring hallmark of the region's identity and a testament to the enduring allure of nature's cycles.

Famous People In Orange County History

William Pereira (1909-1985) - Architect who designed several key buildings in Irvine and the University of California, Irvine campus.

William Pereira was an influential American architect whose work largely shaped the 20th-century landscape of Southern California, most notably in Irvine and the University of California, Irvine (UCI) campus. His designs spanned a wide range of buildings, including campuses, commercial buildings, and cultural institutions. This biography explores the life and legacy of a visionary who left an indelible mark on the architectural fabric of Orange County and beyond.

Early Years and Inspiration (1909-1930)

Born in Chicago, Illinois, William Pereira was fascinated with design and architecture from an early age. His early exposure to the burgeoning cityscape of Chicago ignited a passion for monumental architecture, setting the stage for his prolific career. He pursued his architecture studies at the University of Illinois, honing the skills and vision that would define his later works.

Breakthrough in Hollywood (1930-1945)

After completing his education, Pereira moved to Los Angeles, where he initially made a name for himself in the film industry. His talent for artistic direction and production design caught the eye of major Hollywood studios. Pereira's work in the entertainment industry, particularly in set design, allowed him to experiment with innovative architectural concepts and models, laying the groundwork for his future in architecture.

Transition to Architecture and Rise to Fame (1945-1960)

Transitioning from Hollywood to architecture, Pereira established his own architectural firm in Los Angeles. He began to make his mark with distinctive designs that captured the optimism and forward-thinking spirit of mid-20th-century America. His approach to architecture was characterized by a keen attention to the interplay between form and function, embodied in landmark buildings across Southern California.

Masterplan for the City of Irvine (1960-1970)

Pereira's connection to Orange County, CA, was cemented with his commission to create a master plan for the city of Irvine. Tasked with transforming vast ranch lands into a balanced mix of residential, commercial, and educational spaces, Pereira envisioned a city that was ahead of its time. His master plan for Irvine laid out a framework for sustainable and community-focused urban development, setting a precedent for city planning practices nationwide.

Designing the Future: University of California, Irvine (1960-1970)

One of Pereira's most iconic projects was the design of the University of California, Irvine campus. His innovative layout for the campus, with academic units radiating from a central park area, promoted a sense of community and collaboration among students and faculty. The ambitious project exemplified Pereira's ability to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating an environment conducive to learning and research.

Signature Projects and Architectural Philosophy (1970-1980)

Throughout the 1970s, Pereira continued to expand his portfolio with a series of notable projects, including the Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco. His architectural philosophy centered on the idea that buildings should be designed to serve the needs of their users while also enhancing their surroundings. Pereira's work stood out for its futuristic designs that transcended traditional architectural boundaries.

Awards and Recognition (Throughout Career)

Pereira's innovative contributions to architecture were recognized with numerous awards and honors. He was lauded not only for his individual buildings but also for his visionary urban planning concepts. Throughout his career, Pereira became a respected figure in the architectural community, celebrated for pushing the limits of design and planning.

Influence on Modern Architecture (1980-1985)

In his final years, Pereira's influence on modern architecture continued to grow. His approach to integrating environmental considerations with architectural design was ahead of its time and paved the way for sustainable design practices. Pereira's legacy is evident in the ongoing relevance of his designs and the principles he championed.

Passing and Legacy (1985)

William Pereira passed away in 1985, leaving behind a rich legacy of architectural innovation. His distinctive buildings and urban plans have endured, serving as a testament to his vision and creative genius. Pereira's impact on the architectural landscape of Southern California, and particularly on the formation of Irvine and UCI, remains profound.

Remembering William Pereira (1985 and Beyond)

The story of William Pereira is one of groundbreaking achievements in architecture and urban planning. From his early days in Hollywood to his monumental contributions to the built environment of Southern California, Pereira's career was marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation. He is remembered as a visionary who shaped the future with his designs, influencing generations of architects and planners.

Key Achievements of William Pereira:

• Developed the master plan for the city of Irvine, setting a new standard for urban development.

• Designed the University of California, Irvine campus, creating a lasting educational and architectural landmark.

• Conceived iconic buildings such as the Transamerica Pyramid, embodying futuristic design principles.

• Received numerous awards for his contributions to architecture and urban planning.

• Pioneered approaches in sustainable and environmental design, influencing modern architectural practices.

William Pereira's career was characterized by a visionary approach to architecture and urban planning, resulting in designs that continue to inspire and serve communities. His work in Southern California, especially in Irvine and at the University of California, Irvine, showcases his genius in creating spaces that are both functional and forward-looking. Pereira's legacy is that of an architect who not only envisioned the future but helped build it.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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