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Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming DJ Snowden concert

• OC church-business fined $15M post-death.

• A deep-dive into the life of John Crean.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking."

- Albert Einstein

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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!

What is the name of the Orange County harbor that serves as a popular spot for dining, shopping, whale watching, and water sports?

A) Dana Point Harbor

B) Newport Harbor

C) Huntington Harbour

D) Seal Beach Harbor

Answer to Week 22's Trivia:

The prestigious annual film festival in Orange County, known for showcasing independent films from around the world, is A) Newport Beach Film Festival.

News

💼 Business

Judge orders Orange County business operating as a church to pay $15 million after man died. (link)

Kindbody Opens First Fertility Clinic in OC. (link)

🏒 Sports

Ducks making the most of “Orange” County in upcoming rebrand. (link)

Fullerton School District adds new sports-focused program for students. (link)

🏦 Finance

Samuelis Pay $65M For Anaheim Industrial Building. (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

🏀 Basketball Pick-Up 5v5
2801 N Brea Blvd, Fullerton, CA
Sunday, Jul 7th | 2:00 - 4:00 AM | (More Info)

⚽ Pickup soccer
3 Dovecreek, Irvine, CA
Sunday, Jul 7th | 9:15 AM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 DJ Snowden: Sound Burned
21601 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA
Thursday, Jul 4th | 10:00 AM | (More Info)

Family

🎨 Village Art Faire
100 N Calle Seville, San Clemente, CA
Saturday, Jul 6th | time varies | (More Info)

🏫 Drone light show to replace July 4 fireworks
935 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA
Thursday, Jul 4th | 9:30 AM | (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 “An entirely underground 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 birth of the environmental movement (1960s-1970s) - Local activism and the establishment of protected areas.

The environmental movement of the 1960s and 1970s represented a crucial turning point for Orange County, CA, as it did for much of the world. This period marked the awakening of public consciousness to the impacts of pollution, urban sprawl, and unregulated industrial growth on natural landscapes and human health. In Orange County, the surge of local activism was not just a response to global environmental crises but also a protective stance against the rapid developmental pressures threatening the region's unique ecosystems, coastal areas, and agricultural lands. Grassroots organizations, community leaders, and concerned citizens rallied together, advocating for the conservation of natural spaces and the establishment of protected areas to safeguard the county's environmental heritage for future generations.

The establishment of protected areas in Orange County during the 1960s and 1970s was a testament to the effective mobilization of local environmental activism. One of the hallmark achievements was the creation of the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in 1975. This critical effort saved one of California’s most important coastal wetlands from planned development into a marina and residential complex. The Preserve has since become a haven for wildlife, a hub for environmental research, and a cherished recreational area, illustrating the lasting impact of the environmental movement’s push for protected areas. Such victories were symbolic of the broader struggle to balance Orange County’s rapid growth with the need to preserve its natural landscapes and biodiversity.

The environmental activism of this era also helped set the stage for subsequent environmental regulations at both state and federal levels, including the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These laws and institutions provided frameworks for ongoing conservation efforts and recognized the importance of environmental assessments in future developments. Orange County’s environmental movement of the 1960s and 1970s, through local activism and the push for the establishment of protected areas, not only safeguarded its prized natural resources but also contributed to the evolving narrative of environmental stewardship in California and beyond. This period underscored the power of community action in shaping environmental policy and highlighted the enduring significance of protecting natural spaces amidst urbanization pressures.

Famous People In Orange County History

John Crean - Founder of Fleetwood Enterprises and a notable philanthropist in Orange County.

John Crean: 1935-2007

John Crean, a pioneer in the recreational vehicle industry and a dedicated philanthropist, made an indelible mark on Orange County and American business. His story is a testament to innovation, entrepreneurship, community service, and philanthropy.

The Beginning of a Business Legend (1935-1950)

Born in Los Angeles, John Crean's early life set the stage for a remarkable journey in business and philanthropy. Growing up in Southern California, Crean showed an early interest in mechanics and entrepreneurship, traits that would later define his career.

Launching Fleetwood Enterprises (1950-1965)

In 1950, against the backdrop of a burgeoning American road culture, Crean founded Fleetwood Enterprises in a small factory in Southern California. With a focus on quality and innovative design, Fleetwood quickly became synonymous with high-quality travel trailers and motor homes, catering to a nation eager to explore its highways.

Fleetwood's Rise to Industry Leadership (1966-1980)

Under John Crean's guidance, Fleetwood Enterprises flourished, becoming the leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles in the United States. Crean's commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and employee wellbeing were pivotal in Fleetwood's ascension to industry leadership.

Expansion and Diversification (1981-1990)

In these years, Crean led Fleetwood through a period of expansion and diversification, venturing into manufactured housing and further solidifying the company's foothold in the recreational vehicle market. His forward-thinking approach kept Fleetwood at the industry's forefront.

John Crean's Connection to Orange County, CA (Throughout Career)

John Crean chose to anchor his personal and professional life in Orange County, making significant contributions to its economic and social fabric. Through generous philanthropic endeavors and business achievements, Crean left a lasting legacy in the county.

Philanthropy and Community Service (1991-2000)

With his success, Crean dedicated an increasing amount of time and resources to philanthropy. His commitment to community service was evident through significant contributions to healthcare, education, and the homeless, profoundly impacting Orange County and beyond.

The Final Years and Passing (2001-2007)

In his final years, John Crean continued his philanthropic efforts while enjoying a well-deserved retirement. His passing in 2007 marked the end of an era, but his legacy of innovation and giving lives on.

Legacy and Continuing Impact (Post-2007)

John Crean's impact extends beyond the business world. His philanthropic efforts and commitment to community have inspired countless others to give back, ensuring his legacy will be felt for generations.

Key Achievements of John Crean:

• Founded Fleetwood Enterprises, propelling it to become a leader in the RV industry.

• Revolutionized the recreational vehicle and manufactured housing markets with innovative designs and quality products.

• Became a major philanthropic force in Orange County, generously supporting various causes such as healthcare, education, and services for the homeless.

• Left a lasting legacy in both the business world and community service, inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

John Crean's life story exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have through entrepreneurship and philanthropy. His legacy, characterized by innovation in business and deep commitment to community service, continues to inspire and influence in Orange County and beyond. Through his visionary leadership in the recreational vehicle industry and his generous spirit, John Crean transformed not only an industry but also the lives of countless individuals in his community.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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