Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Jazz Combos concert

• Runner disqualified for father's aid

• A deep-dive into the life of Aimee Semple McPherson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The only person you are destined to become, is the person you decide to be."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

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!

In Orange County, which university is known for its strong programs in business, law, and film arts, located in the city of Orange?

A) University of California, Irvine

B) California State University, Fullerton

C) Chapman University

D) Soka University of America

Answer to Last Week Trivia: The name of the Orange County beach known for its historic pier and active surf culture, often hosting surfing competitions, is C) Huntington Beach.

News

💼 Business

'It's not a moratorium': What to know about Orange County's proposed development application 'pause'. (link)

Richard ‘Dick’ Pickup, longtime Orange County philanthropist and investor, dies at 90. (link)

Orange County Coroner identifies victims in apparent murder-suicide. (link)

Orange County considers offering film, TV production incentives. (link)

🏒 Sports

Steven Martinez broke a course record at the OC Marathon, finishing in 2:18:06. (link)

Runner Disqualified After Receiving Unauthorized Aid From Father During Race, Violating Competition Rules. (link)

Ippei Mizuhara 'wired Shohei Ohtani's money to Real Housewives star Ryan Boyajian to pay off gambling debts'. (link)

🏦 Finance

Orange County Bancorp Inc (OBT) Surpasses Analyst Earnings Projections in Q1 2024 (link)

Google Pushes Back Against Proposed California Law, Deems Payments to News Outlets 'Unworkable' and Pulls Links to Local News Sites. (link)

Harbinger Motors Inaugurates New 165,000-Square-Foot HQ in Garden Grove After Moving From Gardena, Leasing With Rexford Industrial. (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

🏌️Annual Golf Tournament
David L. Baker Golf Course 10410 Edinger Avenue Fountain Valley, CA
Monday, May 13th | 1:00 - 4:00 PM | More Info

🏃 California Brewery Running Series
The Bruery Tasting Room 717 Dunn Way Placentia, CA
Saturday, May 18th | 10:00 AM | More Info

🏌️Latina Golfers May 18 Golf Outing Bell Gardens
Bell Gardens Golf Course 8000 Park Lane Bell Gardens, CA
Saturday, May 18th | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM | More Info

⚾ 2024 WIFFLE Ball Tournament
Hermosa Drive Park 400 E Hermosa Dr Fullerton, CA
Saturday, May 18th | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎤 Karaoke Night
Cerveza Cito Brewery 309 W. 4th St. Santa Ana, CA
Thursday, May 16th | 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM | More Info

🎻 Trivia Night
Cerveza Cito Brewery 309 W. 4th St. Santa Ana, CA
Thursday, May 16th | 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM | More Info

🎶 Jazz Combos Concert
Saddleback College 28000 Marguerite Parkway Mission Viejo, CA
Friday, May 17th | 7:30 PM | More Info

🎼 LACHSA LOVE THROUGH MUSIC (Fundraiser Concert)
2035 South Oak Knoll Avenue, San Marino, CA
Saturday, May 18th | 4:00 - 6:00 PM | More Info

Family

🎠 Brillo: Open Rehearsals and Creative Process
Bowers Museum 2002 N. Main St. Santa Ana, CA
Tuesday, May 14th | 10:00 AM - 1:00 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 “Post-apocalyptic Orange County, CA reclaimed by nature.” 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

El Toro Marine Base establishment (1940s) - Its role during WWII and the Cold War.

The El Toro Marine Base, officially designated Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, was a pivotal United States Marine Corps air station located in Orange County, California. Its establishment in the early 1940s was a direct response to the growing need for military readiness before the United States' entry into World War II. Acquiring over 4,000 acres of what was primarily agricultural land, construction of the air station began in 1942, amidst the urgent wartime atmosphere following the attack on Pearl Harbor. El Toro was strategically chosen for its location due to the favorable flying weather conditions and its relative proximity to the Pacific coast, making it an ideal site for a major Marine Corps air station.

During World War II, El Toro served as a key base for Marine aviation on the West Coast. It became a critical hub for training pilots and aircrew, preparing them for combat operations in the Pacific Theater. The base housed a variety of aircraft types, which facilitated a broad range of training exercises and operational preparations. Its runways were the starting point for countless missions, and the station played a significant role in the success of Marine Corps aviation during the conflict. The facility's importance was underscored by its rapid expansion and the increase in personnel and aircraft throughout the war years.

Transitioning into the Cold War era, El Toro’s strategic importance only grew as it adapted to the changing dynamics of global military strategy. The base became central to the United States' deterrence strategy, hosting several Marine Aircraft Groups that were equipped with advanced jet fighters and capable of rapid deployment to hot spots around the world. These aircraft played crucial roles in projecting American power and readiness during a period marked by geopolitical tension and the potential for conflict between superpowers. Throughout both World War II and the Cold War, El Toro Marine Base stood as a fortress of American military might and a symbol of the nation's enduring commitment to safeguarding freedom and security at home and abroad.

Famous People In Orange County History

Aimee Semple McPherson (1890-1944)

Aimee Semple McPherson, a name synonymous with early 20th-century evangelism, was more than just a religious leader; she was a cultural icon whose life was filled with both divine inspiration and human controversy. Her story is one of faith, fame, and fervent devotion to spreading the gospel, ultimately leading to the founding of the Foursquare Church.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening (1890-1907)

Aimee Elizabeth Kennedy was born on a farm near Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada, in 1890, into a family with a Methodist background but was later influenced by the Pentecostal movement. Her conversion and calling to evangelism happened simultaneously when she was just 17, during a revival meeting led by Robert Semple. This event not only marked the beginning of her spiritual journey but also her departure from conventional paths.

Marriage and Missionary Work (1908-1918)

Aimee married Robert Semple in 1908, and together, they embarked on missionary work to China. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when Robert died in Hong Kong, leaving Aimee a widow and a mother. Returning to the United States, she remarried but found her domestic life constraining. Her undeniable calling to preach led to the eventual end of her second marriage, setting the stage for her solo ministry.

Rise to Prominence in Evangelism (1919-1926)

McPherson's charismatic preaching and purported healing powers drew massive crowds, transcending denominational lines. Through tent revivals and later radio broadcasts, she reached audiences never before touched by traditional church methods. Her innovative approach to evangelism combined with theatrical sermons made her a religious celebrity.

Establishment of Angelus Temple and the Foursquare Church (1923-1927)

In 1923, McPherson founded Angelus Temple in Los Angeles, which became the headquarters for her burgeoning ministry and the Foursquare Gospel movement. The Foursquare Church, officially established in 1927, encapsulated her teachings on Jesus Christ as Savior, Baptizer with the Holy Spirit, Healer, and Coming King.

Controversies and Kidnapping Saga (1926-1931)

At the height of her fame, McPherson's life took a dramatic turn when she disappeared in 1926, only to re-emerge after a month with a story of kidnapping and escape. The event caused a media frenzy, leading to a highly publicized court case that ultimately was dismissed but left lingering doubts about her integrity.

Influence and Connection to Orange County, CA (1930s)

McPherson expanded her influence beyond Los Angeles, holding revival meetings in Orange County, among other places. Her popularity helped establish the Foursquare Church as a significant religious presence in the area. The Orange County revivals were notable for their size, enthusiasm, and the continuing growth of McPherson's following.

Later Years and Continued Ministry (1930s-1944)

Despite controversies, McPherson continued her work with undiminished fervor, using radio broadcasts to reach a national audience and supporting war efforts during World War II. Her dedication to both spiritual and societal causes marked her later years until her unexpected death in 1944.

Legacy and Impact (1944 and Beyond)

McPherson's legacy is a complex tapestry of unwavering faith, pioneering religious broadcasting, and the establishment of a major Christian denomination. Her influence extends beyond her controversies, remembered for her charismatic leadership and contribution to the Christian faith in America.

Her Death and Lasting Influence (1944)

Aimee Semple McPherson passed away in 1944, but the Foursquare Church continued to prosper and expand globally. Her death marked the end of an era but also the beginning of a lasting legacy, as her teachings and ministry model continue to influence Pentecostal and charismatic movements worldwide.

Key Achievements of Aimee Semple McPherson:

• Founded the Foursquare Church, a global Pentecostal denomination.

• Established Angelus Temple, which became a beacon for evangelical Christianity.

• Became one of the first women to use radio to reach a wider audience with her religious broadcasts.

• Her innovative revival meetings and sermons brought Pentecostalism into the mainstream.

Aimee Semple McPherson's story is one of extraordinary faith and dedication to spreading the gospel, overshadowed at times by controversy. Her pioneering use of media for evangelism and the establishment of the Foursquare Church are her lasting contributions to Christianity. Despite the trials and tribulations of her life, McPherson's impact on religious broadcasting and Pentecostalism endures, cementing her place as one of the most influential evangelical figures of the 20th century.

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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