Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Orange County SC adds two former Galaxy players to roster

• Rolling Loud Festival

• A deep-dive into the life of John Wayne

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday.”

- Matt Haig

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!

Orange County's largest shopping center, known for its luxury boutiques and dining options, is:

A) Brea Mall

B) The Shops at Mission Viejo

C) South Coast Plaza

D) Fashion Island

Answer to Week 5's Trivia: The museum in Orange County dedicated to the arts and culture of California, featuring both historical and contemporary works is B) Orange County Museum of Art.

News

💼 Business

Shake Shack is set to expand its presence in Orange County with three new locations, catering to the growing demand for its offerings. (Link)

California ranks as the state with the second-smallest wage gap between women and men in the US, highlighting its progress in gender pay equality. (Link)

California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) recognizes Orange County civic leaders for their contributions to public service, honoring their commitment to the community. (Link)

Orange City Chamber of Commerce announces a small business grant program to support local entrepreneurs affected by the pandemic. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Orange County SC boosts its roster with two former Galaxy players, Ethan Zubak and Cameron Dunbar, aiming to strengthen the team's performance. (Link)

Orange County SC held its media day on Tuesday, gearing up for the season's home opener against Miami FC scheduled for March 23. (Link)

Ellis scores 28 points, hitting 6 out of 8 three-pointers, as USC's starting lineup shows a strong performance, now healthy and in sync. (Link)

Orange City High School wins the state basketball championship in a thrilling overtime game. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Orange City's real estate market sees a surge in property values, driven by increased demand and limited inventory. (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

🏐 Intermediate Volleyball
Garden Grove Sports and Recreation Center, Orange County
March 11 - March 17 | (More Info)

🏅 BEST: 4-Sport Multi-Sport Event
Shiffer Park, Orange County
March 16 | (More Info)

⚽ Skyhawks: Soccer - Costa Mesa, CA 2024
Shiffer Park, Orange County
March 13 | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Rolling Loud Festival California
Holly Park Plaza, Orange County
March 15 | (More Info)

🍀 Shamrock Rebellion Festival - Orange County, CA
Location not specified, Orange County
March 16 | (More Info)

🎶 Shen Yun
Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa
March 13th - March 17 | (More Info)

Family

🚗 Impalas Magazine Orange County Super Show
OC Fair, Costa Mesa
Sunday, March 17 | 11:00AM-6:00PM | (More Info)

🎨 Weekend Of Art
Los Alamitos
Saturday, March 16th | 12:00 - 6:00 p.m | (More Info)

🎬 Super Mario Bros. Movie Night Weekend Of Art
Aliso Viejo
Friday, March 15th | 6:00 p.m | (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 streets bustling with holographic advertisements” 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

Santa Ana Army Air Base establishment (1940s)

The Santa Ana Army Air Base (SAAAB), established in the early 1940s, played a pivotal role during World War II, situated strategically in Orange County, California. This base emerged as a crucial part of the United States' war effort, primarily functioning as a pre-flight training center for the Army Air Forces. Its creation was a response to the growing need for well-trained air personnel, as the war demanded not just pilots but also navigators, bombardiers, and flight engineers who could handle the sophisticated demands of aerial combat and reconnaissance.

As the war intensified, SAAAB expanded rapidly, transforming the serene agricultural landscape of Orange County into a bustling hub of military activity. Thousands of airmen underwent rigorous training programs here, which were designed to prepare them for the challenges of aerial warfare. The base's rigorous curriculum emphasized physical fitness, military discipline, and academics, which included navigation, meteorology, and the principles of flight. The trainees, many of whom were fresh from civilian life, underwent a transformation that equipped them with the skills and discipline required for combat operations in the European and Pacific theaters.

Moreover, the establishment of the Santa Ana Army Air Base had a significant impact on the local community and economy. The influx of military personnel and the construction of the base facilities provided jobs, boosted local businesses, and spurred the development of the surrounding area. The base not only contributed to the war effort but also left a lasting legacy in Orange County, marking a time when the community played a vital role in supporting the United States' military endeavors during a critical period in history. Today, the legacy of the Santa Ana Army Air Base is remembered for its crucial role in preparing the airmen who would go on to play significant roles in securing victory for the Allies during World War II.

Famous People In Orange County History

John Wayne (1907-1979)

John Wayne, born Marion Robert Morrison, is one of the most emblematic figures in American cinema, whose storied career and life continue to capture the imagination of film enthusiasts worldwide. His persona, both on and off the screen, came to define the archetypal rugged American individualism and steadfast perseverance.

Early Years and Introduction to Cinema (1907-1928)

John Wayne was born in Winterset, Iowa but moved with his family to Southern California. His beginnings in the cinema world were humble, starting with a job as a prop boy and extra on movie sets at Fox Film Corporation through connections made while attending the University of Southern California (USC). His towering frame and undeniable charisma quickly caught the eyes of directors, setting the stage for his ascent in Hollywood.

Breaking Through: The Big Trail (1929-1939)

Wayne’s first leading role came in the 1930 big-budget epic ""The Big Trail,"" which, despite its initial box office failure, marked him as a potential leading man. The 1930s saw Wayne working in numerous low-budget films, honing his acting skills and establishing his on-screen persona in the Western genre.

Becoming a Household Name (1940-1950)

The breakthrough came with John Ford’s ""Stagecoach"" (1939), which catapulted Wayne to stardom, establishing him as a leading actor. Throughout the 1940s, Wayne starred in a series of notable films including ""The Long Voyage Home"" and ""Red River,"" firmly cementing his place as one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars.

The Duke’s Peak (1951-1960)

This decade marked the peak of Wayne’s career with critically acclaimed roles in ""The Quiet Man,"" ""The Searchers,"" and ""Rio Bravo."" His performances during this time showcased his versatility as an actor, shedding light on his ability to imbue his characters with deep emotional resonance beyond the tough-guy exterior.

Branching Out: Directing and Producing (1961-1970)

Not content to remain in front of the camera, Wayne directed and produced several films during this period, including ""The Alamo"" and ""The Green Berets,"" which reflected his personal views and patriotic fervor. Though met with mixed reviews, these films highlighted his dedication to his ideals and his love for America.

An American Icon (1971-1979)

The latter part of Wayne’s career saw him becoming an undisputed American icon, culminating in an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in ""True Grit"" (1969). His later works, such as ""The Shootist"" (1976), offered a reflective look at his cinematic legacy, portraying characters in the twilight of their lives.

John Wayne and Orange County, CA

Living much of his later life in Newport Beach, Orange County, Wayne became a beloved local figure. His affinity for the area was profound, with his yacht, the Wild Goose, being a familiar sight in the waters. The John Wayne Airport in Orange County stands as a testament to his impact on the local community and the enduring love and respect he garnered.

John Wayne's Legacy (1979 and Beyond)

John Wayne passed away on June 11, 1979, leaving behind a monumental legacy that spans his contributions to American cinema, his steadfast patriotism, and his status as an enduring symbol of American rugged individualism. Memorials, including the naming of the John Wayne Airport, celebrate his impact not just in Orange County but the nation at large.

Key Achievements of John Wayne:

• Starred in over 150 movies, becoming synonymous with the American Western genre.

• Won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in ""True Grit.""

• Directed and produced several films, showcasing his multifaceted talents in cinema.

• Named the John Wayne Airport in Orange County in his honor, cementing his legacy in the community.

• Received the Congressional Gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously, acknowledging his impact on American culture and values.

John Wayne’s life story is a testament to the enduring appeal of hard work, determination, and the pursuit of the American Dream. From his humble beginnings in Iowa to becoming one of the most iconic figures in American cinema, Wayne’s legacy transcends his roles on screen, embodying the spirit of perseverance and integrity that continue to inspire generations.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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