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Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• CNM LLP: 5-time Best Workplace.

• Albano highlights South County standouts.

• A deep-dive into the life of George Argyros.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated."

- Maya Angelou

Sponsored

Yes, this platform’s 77% return is an outlier – but the rest may surprise you

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Every one of their sales has returned a profit to investors, with 12 of them delivering double-digit returns, and 1 delivering triple-digit annualized returns. 

In full, Masterworks has over 300 paintings and their 16 exits have delivered: 32%, 39.3%, 36.2%, 27.3%, 9.2%, 33.1%, 21.5%, 17.8%, 13.9%, 35%, 10.4%, 325.5%, 4.1%, 17.6%, 77.3%, and 13.4% net annualized returns. 

Every sale but one outperformed the stock market in the period from when it was offered to when it was sold. 

With performance like that, offerings on the platform can sell out in minutes. However, Local News Newsletter readers can skip the waitlist to join with this exclusive link.

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 "Irvine Spectrum Center" is known for its giant Ferris wheel and outdoor shopping experience. What makes this center unique compared to other shopping malls in Orange County?

A) It contains a full-size merry-go-round.

B) It hosts an outdoor ice skating rink in winter.

C) It features a comedy club and improv theater.

D) All of the above.

Answer to Week 24's Trivia:

The Orange County city renowned for its world-class equestrian facilities, hosting international horse shows and events, is D) San Juan Capistrano.

News

💼 Business

Minyard Morris Credits Supporting, Empowering Environment and "Star Team" as it Earns Orange County Business. (link)

CNM LLP Named One of the 2024 Best Places to Work in Orange County for the Fifth Time. (link)

🏒 Sports

Clippers bring back Nicolas Batum on 2-year deal. (link)

Albano’s under-the-radar standouts from the South County passing tournament. (link)

🏦 Finance

Orange County schools plans $45 million project near Mills 50. (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

⚾ Seattle Mariners at Angels
2000 Gene Autry Way Anaheim, CA
Thursday, Jul 11th | 6:38 PM | (More Info)

🏀 BIG3
2695 E. Katella Ave. Anaheim, CA
Sunday, Jul 14th | 3:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Concerts in the Park
Pacific Coast Hwy & Niguel Rd, 33418 Pacific Coast Hwy Suite 100, Dana Point, CA
Sunday, Jul 14th | 7:30 am | (More Info)

🎶 2024 Summer Concert Series at VEA Newport Beach
900 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA
Sunday, Jul 14th | 4:00 pm | (More Info)

Family

🎨 Family Art Day
650 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA
Sunday, Jul 14th | 12:00 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 “Metropolis of Orange County, CA with a massive central AI-controlled hub” 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 Greenbelt Movement (1960s) - Efforts to preserve open spaces amid rapid development.

The Greenbelt Movement, originating in the 1960s, represented a crucial environmental and social campaign, particularly vivid in areas like Orange County, California. This movement emerged in response to the rapid urban development and suburban sprawl that characterized the post-World War II era in the United States. As Orange County transformed from a largely agricultural region to a densely populated urban area, concerns over the loss of open spaces, natural habitats, and the overall quality of the environment grew. Activists, local residents, and environmentalists rallied under the banner of the Greenbelt Movement to push for the preservation of these vital green spaces.

Central to the movement's efforts in Orange County was the aim to establish green belts—swathes of undeveloped, wild, or agricultural lands encircling or within urban areas that serve as lungs for the cities, ensuring clean air, providing recreational spaces, and maintaining ecological balance. The movement sought not only to halt the encroachment of construction on these green spaces but also to educate the public on the importance of environmental stewardship. Through grassroots organizing, public demonstrations, and political lobbying, they fought to implement zoning laws, land-use planning, and public policies favoring the creation and preservation of greenbelts.

By the late 20th century, the efforts of the Greenbelt Movement in Orange County bore fruit, helping to secure significant areas of open space amidst the rapidly developing landscape. Notable achievements include the preservation of significant parts of the coastline, establishment of parks and nature reserves, and the integration of green spaces in urban planning. The movement laid the groundwork for future environmental advocacy and set a precedent for sustainable urban development that balances growth with the imperative to preserve natural habitats. Through its persistent efforts, the Greenbelt Movement ensured that green spaces remained a pivotal part of Orange County's identity, offering a blueprint for similar initiatives worldwide.

Famous People In Orange County History

George Argyros - Businessman and former owner of the Seattle Mariners, involved in Orange County’s development.

George Argyros: Business Tycoon and Sports Franchise Owner

Early Life and Education (1937-1955)

Born in Detroit, Michigan, to Greek immigrant parents, George Argyros grew up in a supportive, though modest, environment. His family moved to Pasadena, California, when he was still a child. Here, Argyros attended Pasadena Public Schools, eventually graduating from Pasadena High School. His early life laid the foundation for his robust work ethic and determination.

Embarking on a Business Career (1956-1979)

After attending Chapman University on a baseball scholarship and later transferring to Michigan State University but not completing his degree, Argyros entered the business world with zeal. Starting in the grocery business, he quickly pivoted to real estate, where he demonstrated a keen eye for valuable investments. By the mid-1960s, Argyros had founded Arnel & Affiliates, a company that would grow to manage a substantial portfolio of residential and commercial properties.

Massive Success in Real Estate (1980-1988)

Argyros's success in real estate boomed in the 1980s. He expanded his ventures into various sectors, including the airline industry and banking, but his core success remained rooted in property development and management. This period marked him not only as a key business figure in Southern California but also as a prominent national businessman.

Ownership of the Seattle Mariners (1981-1987)

In 1981, George Argyros purchased the Seattle Mariners baseball team. His tenure as owner was marked by efforts to improve the team's performance and financial stability. However, his time with the Mariners was also fraught with controversy, including conflicts with players and fans. Despite these challenges, Argyros's involvement in Major League Baseball underscored his diverse range of business interests and his willingness to venture into the public arena of sports.

Key Developer in Orange County (1989-1995)

Argyros played a vital role in the development of Orange County, California. His investments helped transform the county into a thriving hub of business and residential life. Notably, Argyros was instrumental in the development of the city of Irvine, among other areas, contributing to the economic growth and physical landscape of Southern California.

Philanthropy and Community Service (1996-2005)

In the latter part of his career, Argyros focused increasingly on philanthropy and community service. His and his wife's significant donations to educational institutions, healthcare, and cultural organizations reflected their commitment to giving back. The George Argyros School of Business and Economics at Chapman University is among the most notable beneficiaries of their generosity, symbolizing Argyros's dedication to education and leadership development.

Political Involvement (2006-2016)

George Argyros served as the United States Ambassador to Spain and Andorra from 2001 to 2004 under President George W. Bush. His appointment highlighted his active involvement in politics, primarily supporting the Republican Party. Argyros's political engagements further demonstrated his multifaceted career and his willingness to serve his country in an international capacity.

Later Years and Legacy (2017-2023)

Into his later years, George Argyros has remained a respected figure in both the business world and the communities he has impacted. His legacy is felt in the sports, real estate, and philanthropic sectors, serving as a testament to a lifetime of ambitious endeavors and generous contributions.

Key Achievements of George Argyros:

• Founded Arnel & Affiliates, managing a vast portfolio of real estate investments across the United States.

• Owned and managed the Seattle Mariners, contributing to Major League Baseball as a team owner.

• Played a pivotal role in the development of Irvine and other parts of Orange County, aiding in their transformation into economic and residential centers.

• Demonstrated notable philanthropic efforts, including substantial contributions to Chapman University and other educational and health organizations.

• Served as the United States Ambassador to Spain and Andorra, showcasing his commitment to public service and international relations.

George Argyros's storied career stretches from the realms of real estate and sports ownership to significant philanthropic endeavors and political involvement. His impact on Orange County's development, combined with his leadership in various sectors, highlights a legacy defined by diversity, ambition, and generosity. As a businessman, philanthropist, and public servant, Argyros has left an indelible mark on the communities and fields he has touched, embodying the spirit of American entrepreneurship and civic responsibility.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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