Welcome to The Orange County Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Orange County delays Vision 2050 release.

• Chargers keep 7 wide receivers.

• A deep-dive into the life of Thomas Fitch.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” 

–Alan Cohen

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 "Sherman Library and Gardens" is a botanical oasis located in which coastal city, offering visitors a collection of living plants, conservatories, and patios?

A) Laguna Beach

B) Corona del Mar

C) Huntington Beach

D) Dana Point

Answer to Week 40's Trivia:

The city in Orange County that is home to the annual "Strawberry Festival" is B) Garden Grove.

News

💼 Business

Orange County to pause its development ‘pause,’ pushes Vision 2050 release. (link)

Orange County orchard reinvents its business model to leave lasting legacy. (link)

🏒 Sports

Chargers opt to keep 7 wide receivers on initial 53-man roster. (link)

Rams call trade of LB Ernest Jones IV a ‘football decision’. (link)

🏦 Finance

Orange County Convention Center to build $1.48M tasting room. (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

⚽ Soccer by BEST Sports
2828 Shantar Dr, Costa Mesa, CA
Sunday, Sep 8th | 9:00 am | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Tiffany
Whisky A Go Go 8901 W Sunset Blvd West Hollywood, CA
Thursday, Sep 5th | 6:00 PM | (More Info)

🎶 Grabbitz
Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall 665 W Jefferson Blvd Los Angeles, CA
Friday, Sep 6th | 9:00 PM | (More Info)

🎵 Chris Botti
Thornton Winery 32575 Rancho California Rd Temecula, CA
Saturday, Sep 7th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎭 Meditation for Kids & Families
231 E Memory Ln, Santa Ana, CA
Sunday, September 8th | 10:00 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 “Orange County, CA with a large, central, computerized public library” 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 Great Park plan (Late 1990s) - The transformation of the El Toro Marine Base into a major urban park.

The Great Park plan, initiated in the late 1990s, emerged as a visionary project aimed at transforming the El Toro Marine Base into one of Southern California's most significant urban parks. Located in Orange County, the El Toro Marine Base, spanning thousands of acres, had served as a prominent military installation until its closure was announced, prompting a reimagining of its vast expanses. The concept was to create a multifaceted park that would cater to a range of activities and services, providing a substantial green lung in the rapidly urbanizing region. This project was fueled by the desire to balance urban development with ecological preservation and recreational spaces, marking a significant pivot in land use planning for the county.

The planning and development of the Great Park were marked by ambitious goals. The vision included extensive open spaces, sports facilities, cultural centers, and natural habitats, all integrated within a framework that emphasized sustainability and community accessibility. The plan sought not only to preserve the area's natural beauty and ecological integrity but to enhance it by restoring habitats and introducing a variety of plant species. It was a colossal undertaking that aimed to connect and serve the diverse communities of Orange County through a comprehensive network of trails, educational spaces, and venues for arts and entertainment, setting a precedent for urban park development in the United States.

However, the realization of the Great Park faced numerous challenges, including financial constraints, political hurdles, and debates over the best uses of the land. Despite these obstacles, progress has been made towards bringing the ambitious vision to life. Today, the Great Park represents a critical piece in the urban fabric of Orange County, offering residents and visitors alike a place for recreation, reflection, and community engagement. Its development continues to evolve, reflecting the changing needs and aspirations of the region it serves. The transformation of the El Toro Marine Base into the Great Park stands as a testament to the power of vision and the potential of public spaces to enrich urban life.

Famous People In Orange County History

Thomas Fitch - Lawyer for Wyatt Earp, lived in Santa Ana and contributed to the legal and cultural landscape.

Thomas Fitch, a notable lawyer who represented Wyatt Earp and made significant contributions to the legal and cultural landscape of Santa Ana, California, lived a life marked by professional achievements and community service.

Early Years and Education (1845-1866)

Thomas Fitch was born in 1845, in a period characterized by rapid American expansion and change. Fitch’s early fascination with law and justice was evident in his youth. He excelled academically, eventually pursuing legal studies that laid the foundation for his distinguished career.

Becoming a Lawyer (1867-1874)

Fitch was admitted to the bar in 1867, beginning his career in a period when the American legal system faced many challenges, including the aftermath of the Civil War and the reconstruction era. He quickly gained a reputation as a skilled and diligent lawyer, advocating with passion and precision.

Legal Advocate in High Profile Cases (1875-1885)

Fitch's legal prowess came to the forefront during the 1870s and 1880s when he represented clients in a series of high-profile cases. His most notable client, Wyatt Earp, a figure synonymous with the Wild West, greatly benefited from Fitch’s legal acumen during legal battles that captured the nation’s attention.

Move to Santa Ana and Contribution to Orange County (1886-1895)

In the late 1880s, Fitch moved to Santa Ana, California. This period was pivotal as he contributed significantly to the growth and development of Orange County's legal and cultural framework. His efforts in establishing legal practices and advocating for the establishment of vital institutions marked the beginning of a long-lasting legacy in the region.

Civic Engagement and Politics (1896-1905)

Fitch’s influence extended beyond the courtroom into civic engagement and politics. He was deeply involved in local governance, contributing to the shaping of policies that spurred the growth and development of Santa Ana. His engagement in politics further emphasized his commitment to the community’s welfare.

Legal Reforms and Advocacy (1906-1915)

The early 20th century saw Fitch champion legal reforms aimed at improving the judicial system. His advocacy for fairness and justice, combined with his profound understanding of the law, made him a respected figure among his peers and the general public alike.

Mentorship and Legacy Building (1916-1925)

In his later years, Fitch focused on mentoring young lawyers, imparting wisdom gained from decades of legal practice. He was instrumental in shaping the next generation of legal professionals, ensuring his legacy of commitment to justice and community service would endure.

Retirement and Reflection (1926-1930)

Fitch retired in the late 1920s, spending his remaining years reflecting on a life well-lived. He remained an active figure in the community, offering counsel and continuing to advocate for the principles he held dear throughout his life.

Passing and Memorials (1930)

Thomas Fitch passed away in 1930, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. Memorials and tributes poured in, commemorating his significant contributions to the legal profession and the community of Santa Ana.

Legacy and Influence (1931 and Beyond)

Fitch’s impact on Santa Ana and the broader legal community continues to be felt. His work laid the groundwork for many of the legal institutions and practices in Orange County today. His life and career serve as a testament to the lasting influence of dedicated public service.

Key Achievements of Thomas Fitch:

• Renowned for his legal representation of Wyatt Earp, showcasing his skill in high-profile cases.

• Significantly contributed to the development of Santa Ana’s legal and cultural infrastructure.

• Engaged actively in civic and political affairs, influencing policy and community growth.

• Championed legal reforms aimed at improving justice and fairness in the judicial system.

• Mentored young lawyers, ensuring the continuation of a legacy committed to legal excellence and community service.

Thomas Fitch’s legacy as a distinguished lawyer, community leader, and advocate for justice marked his life with significant achievements and contributions to the legal profession and the community of Santa Ana. His relentless pursuit of justice, combined with his commitment to mentoring and community service, underscores the enduring impact of his work. Fitch remains a celebrated figure, remembered for his dedication to the law and the welfare of 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

Poll