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Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Olympians receive Anaheim send-off.

• Upcoming Keyshia Cole concert

• A deep-dive into the life of J.C. Agajanian.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."

– Marcus Aurelius

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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 "Old Towne Orange Historic District" is famous for its antique shops and well-preserved homes from which era?

A) Late 1800s

B) Early 1900s

C) 1950s

D) 1970s

Answer to Week 28's Trivia:

The unique transportation system in Orange County that offers a scenic ride from the Balboa Peninsula to Balboa Island is A) The Balboa Island Ferry.

News

💼 Business

Dunleer buys 2 industrial business parks in L.A. and Orange County. (link)

Maitland, Orange County to meet on SunRail commuter train cost concerns. (link)

🏒 Sports

Olympians get warm send-off in Anaheim before Paris Games. (link)

Dodgers select shortstop Kellon Lindsey with first-round pick. (link)

🏦 Finance

CerraCap Invests $10M in Software Delivery Firm. (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

⚾ Oakland Athletics at Los Angeles Angels
Angel Stadium of Anaheim, 2000 E Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA
July 25th & 26th | (More Info)

🏀 GRAND SLAM
The American Legion Post 132 Orange, CA
Saturday, Jul 27th | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Keyshia Cole
100 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa, CA
Thursday, Jul 25th | 7:00 pm | (More Info)

🎶 Viva La Quebradita
400 Disney Way #337, Anaheim, CA
Sunday, Jul 28th | 7:00 pm | (More Info)

Family

🎨 Shark Day
29 Hubble, Irvine, CA
Saturday, July 27th | 10:00am | (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 “A city in the clouds, with buildings suspended in the air over Orange County, CA” 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 Sunkist legacy (Early 20th century) - The impact of the citrus industry's marketing on local agriculture.

At the dawn of the 20th century, Orange County, California, witnessed a transformative movement within its agricultural landscape, largely due to the pioneering marketing strategies of the Sunkist Growers, Inc. Founded in 1893 as the Southern California Fruit Exchange, Sunkist emerged as a citrus cooperative aiming to boost the profits and market reach of local orange and lemon growers. Its impact was soon felt across the region, as Sunkist's innovative marketing and branding practices not only popularized California citrus fruits across the United States but also established Orange County as a pivotal center for citrus production.

Sunkist's marketing genius was evident in its multifaceted approach that included eye-catching packaging, creative advertising, and strategic alliances. The establishment of a recognizable brand helped differentiate California oranges in a crowded market, creating a demand that previously did not exist. By the 1920s, Sunkist had launched highly successful advertising campaigns in magazines, newspapers, and on the nascent medium of radio, fostering a national craze for oranges and orange juice. This was a remarkable feat at a time when nationwide advertising for a specific agricultural product was a novel concept. The brand promoted not just the fruit but a lifestyle of health and vitality associated with California's sunny climate, further enchanting the American public.

The ramifications of Sunkist's marketing success extended deep into the agricultural practices and economic stability of Orange County. The heightened demand for citrus fruits catalyzed a significant expansion of orchards, transforming the county's landscape and solidifying its identity as a major agricultural hub. This economic boon contributed to a surge in employment opportunities, from farmworkers to those involved in the packing and transport of fruit, fostering a thriving local economy centered around citrus agriculture. Moreover, Sunkist's focus on cooperative marketing set a precedent for agricultural marketing nationwide, demonstrating the power of collective action in expanding market access and stabilizing prices for farmers. Thus, through its innovative marketing efforts and its significant impact on local agriculture, Sunkist left an indelible legacy on Orange County's economic and cultural fabric, a legacy that continues to be felt to this day.

Famous People In Orange County History

J.C. Agajanian - Influential figure in American auto racing, with ties to Orange County.

J.C. Agajanian: A Titan of American Auto Racing (1913-1945)

J.C. Agajanian, born in 1913, grew from humble beginnings into a monumental figure in American auto racing. Raised in a hardworking family with Armenian heritage, Agajanian's early exposure to the automotive industry through his father's junkyard in Los Angeles laid the foundation for his lifelong passion for racing.

Entry into Racing and Early Successes (1946-1952)

In the years following World War II, Agajanian transitioned from spectator to active participant in the racing world. He began by purchasing and sponsoring midget cars, quickly establishing himself with a team known for its competitive edge. His early entry into racing was marked by significant achievements, including wins at local and regional events, which fueled his aspirations for greater success.

Indianapolis 500 and National Recognition (1952-1963)

Agajanian's relentless pursuit of excellence led him to the Indianapolis 500, where his impact was profound. His team's victory at the 1952 Indy 500, with driver Troy Ruttman, catapulted Agajanian to national fame. This win was not only significant for his career but also symbolic of his innovative approach to car design and team management.

Expansion into Various Racing Disciplines (1964-1970)

Never content with resting on his laurels, Agajanian expanded his interests into different types of racing, including stock cars and off-road events. This diversification solidified his reputation as a versatile and visionary figure in the racing community. His influence extended beyond the track, as he became a respected advocate for the sport’s development.

Agajanian and the Orange County Connection (1971-1975)

Among Agajanian's notable contributions was his deep connection to Orange County, CA. Here, he not only established a base for his racing operations but also contributed to the local economy and community. His involvement in the Ascot Park Speedway in nearby Los Angeles County was pivotal, bringing major racing events to Southern California and fostering a vibrant racing culture in the region.

Pioneering Safety and Innovation (1976-1980)

Agajanian's commitment to the advancement of auto racing led him to champion safety improvements and technical innovations. He was instrumental in the introduction of advanced safety measures and car designs, significantly influencing regulations and standards within the racing world. His foresight and advocacy for safety have left a lasting legacy in the sport.

Mentorship and Legacy (1981-1984)

In his later years, Agajanian's role as a mentor to young drivers and entrepreneurs in auto racing became increasingly significant. His guidance and support helped shape the next generation of racing professionals. Agajanian's death in 1984 marked the end of an era, but his influence lives on, as numerous proteges continue to honor his legacy.

Honors and Posthumous Recognition (1984 and Beyond)

Following his passing, J.C. Agajanian's contributions to auto racing were honored through induction into various halls of fame, including the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. His innovative spirit and dedication to the sport have been recognized by peers and fans alike, ensuring his place in the annals of racing history.

Key Achievements of J.C. Agajanian:

• Victory at the 1952 Indianapolis 500, a pivotal moment in his career and in American auto racing.

• Induction into multiple halls of fame, including the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America and the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame.

• Pioneering advances in racing safety and car design, significantly contributing to the sport's development.

• Fostering a vibrant racing culture in Orange County and Southern California through his involvement with Ascot Park Speedway.

• Serving as a mentor to a generation of drivers and racing enthusiasts, influencing the sport beyond his lifetime.

J.C. Agajanian's legacy is one of innovation, excellence, and unwavering dedication to the world of auto racing. His journey from a young admirer of cars to a legendary figure in American motorsports is a testament to his passion, vision, and influence. Agajanian not only shaped the course of racing history but also inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams in the fast-paced world of auto sports.

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-Matthew Larsen

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