Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Free MBA-level classes in Long Beach

• Monster Jam 2024 in Anaheim

• A deep-dive into the life of Helen Modjeska

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Whether you think you can or you can't, either way you are right.”

-Henry Ford

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!

What is the name of the iconic theme park in Orange County that opened in 1955, becoming the first Disneyland theme park ever built?

A) Knott's Berry Farm

B) Disneyland Park

C) Universal Studios Hollywood

D) SeaWorld San Diego

Answer to Last Week's Trivia

The Orange County city known as the birthplace of President Richard Nixon is C) Yorba Linda.

News

💼 Business

Joe Duran has initiated a new venture fund focused on innovative investments. (link)

The list of 50 individuals shaping the future of healthcare in Orange County has been announced. (link)

California's real estate market observed double-digit annual declines in March. (link)

Free MBA-level classes in Long Beach are being offered to enhance entrepreneurial skills. (link)

ATT's rate increases have impacted business owners in Orange County. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Clippers triumphed over the Hawks, with Kawhi Leonard scoring 25 points. Additionally, Russell Westbrook reached a milestone of 25,000 points in a game against the Pistons. (link)

Isaiah Collier led USC from a 16-point deficit to take the game against Cal into overtime, though Cal ultimately secured the win. (link)

CIF officials have released the seedings and brackets for the upcoming CIF girls basketball playoffs. (link)

Orange County boys basketball teams have received high seeds for the CIF playoffs this week. (link)

In the CIF-SS Open Division playoffs, JSerra defeated San Clemente in the first leg. (link)

Mater Dei has reclaimed the number one spot in the Orange County boys basketball Top 25. (link)

🏦 Finance

UCI Health has acquired four Tenet hospitals for $975 million. (link)

State officials have provided emergency funding to Orange County for rail service repairs due to a landslide in San Clemente. (link)

California voters are contemplating a $6.4 billion bond aimed at constructing housing units and treatment beds for individuals with serious mental health conditions. (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

🏁 Monster Jam 2024
Angel Stadium of Anaheim
Saturday, Feb 17th | 6:30 PM |
Sunday, Feb 18th | 2:30 PM | (More Info)

⚽ South County Showdown
Clava Sports Facility, CA
Saturday, February 17th | (More Info)

⚽ Great Park Soccer Pickup
Soccer Field 8, Great Park, CA
Thursday, February 15th | (More Info)

🏀 Presidents Day Jamboree (AAU Super Regional Qualifier)
Momentous Sports Center, CA
Saturday, February 17th | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎻 LBMF Opening Night: Metamorphoses
Laguna Beach, CA
Friday, Feb 16th | (More Info)

🎼 LBMF: Doubles
Laguna Beach, CA
Saturday, Feb 17th | (More Info)

🎷 LBMF: Carnaval!
Laguna Beach, CA
Sunday, Feb 18th | (More Info)

Family

🌑 Lunar New Year Celebration at MainPlace Mall
MainPlace Mall, Santa Ana, CA
Saturday, February 17th | (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 skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” 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

Formation of Orange County (1889)

Orange County's official establishment in 1889 as its entity, separate from Los Angeles County, was a pivotal event in the region's history. This separation was driven by the desire of local settlers and business leaders to have more control over their affairs, particularly in response to the burgeoning agricultural industry. The county's name, "Orange," was chosen to reflect its most famous product and to promote the area as a Mediterranean-like paradise to attract settlers and investors. This branding effort was remarkably successful, leading to a boom in orange cultivation and making citrus farming the backbone of the county's economy for many years.

The formation of Orange County catalyzed its development, with the establishment of infrastructure, towns, and civic institutions following swiftly. Towns like Santa Ana, Anaheim, and Orange grew rapidly, each becoming centers of economic and social activity within the newly formed county. The establishment of Orange County not only delineated its geographical boundaries but also fostered a distinct regional identity. It set the stage for the growth that would see Orange County become one of the most populous and economically vibrant areas in California, known for its agriculture, suburban communities, and later, as a hub for entertainment and tourism industries.

Famous People In Orange County History

Helen Modjeska

Early Life and Acting Career in Poland (1840–1876)

Born in Kraków, Poland, in 1840, Helen Modjeska (born Helena Modrzejewska) discovered her passion for acting at a young age. Despite societal expectations, she pursued her dreams and honed her craft on the stages of Poland, gaining recognition for her exceptional talent and versatility. Modjeska's performances garnered widespread acclaim, establishing her as one of the preeminent actresses of her time in Europe.

Immigration to the United States (1876–1877)

In 1876, seeking new opportunities and adventures, Helen Modjeska immigrated to the United States with her husband, Karol Chłapowski. Settling in Anaheim, California, they purchased a ranch in what is now Orange County. Initially intending to retire from acting and embrace a quiet life as farmers, Modjeska's passion for the stage proved irresistible, and she soon found herself drawn back to the theater.

Contribution to the Arts in Orange County (1877–1909)

Helen Modjeska's arrival in Orange County heralded a new chapter in her illustrious career and marked the beginning of her enduring legacy in Southern California. Embracing her role as a cultural ambassador, she became instrumental in fostering a vibrant arts scene in the region. Modjeska's performances, often held at her home, Arden, enchanted audiences and elevated the cultural landscape of Orange County. Through her dedication to the arts and commitment to excellence, Modjeska inspired generations of artists and left an indelible mark on the community.

Key Achievements:

• Established herself as one of the leading actresses of the 19th century in Europe.

• Immigrated to the United States and settled in Orange County, California, contributing to the cultural enrichment of the region.

• Fostered a thriving arts community in Orange County through her performances and dedication to excellence.

Helen Modjeska's legacy as a pioneering actress and cultural influencer continues to be celebrated in both Poland and the United States. Through her remarkable talent, passion for the arts, and commitment to community, she transcended borders and generations, leaving an enduring imprint on the cultural landscape of Orange County and beyond.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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