Welcome to The Orlando Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Details of Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe park

• Upcoming Orlando Solar Bears home games

• A deep-dive into the life of Harriet Beecher Stowe

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Whether you think you can or you can't, either way you are right.”

-Henry Ford

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!

Which Orlando attraction is known for its educational exhibits, interactive experiences, and the largest refractor telescope in Florida?

A) Orlando Science Center

B) Kennedy Space Center

C) The Orlando Museum of Art

D) WonderWorks

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The world-famous theme park in Orlando known for its iconic Cinderella Castle and beloved Disney characters is C) Magic Kingdom.

News

💼 Business

Five popular restaurant chains are set to expand in Central Florida, with New York-based Just Salad opening its third location in Waterford Lakes. (link)

Disney pledges billions for theme park expansions, with CEO Bob Iger hinting at significant investments across all Disney locations. (link)

Universal Orlando reveals details of its new Epic Universe park, featuring attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, and How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, set to open in 2025​​. (link)

Orange County commissioners consider a sales tax hike to fund transportation improvements. (link)

🏒 Sports

Orlando Solar Bears forward Mitchell Hoelscher scored 10 goals in his last 13 games, enhancing the team's performance significantly. (link)

The Orlando Magic's defense is highlighted for its exceptional performance, marking a significant improvement as the season progresses. (link)

Orlando Solar Bears show a strong start advantage with a 14-2-2 record when scoring first in games. (link)

UCF Knights Softball is set to compete in the Black & Gold Classic, showcasing the team's talent and preparation for the season. (link)

🏦 Finance

Disney's investment plans, including significant allocations to Florida parks, suggest ongoing and future expansions that could boost local employment and tourism. (link)

Orlando's real estate market might see adjustments or developments, considering the impact of major entertainment projects on property values and investment opportunities. (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

🏒 Orlando Solar Bears vs. Worcester Railers
Kia Center, Orlando
Monday, Feb. 12th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Orlando Magic vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Kia Center, Orlando
Tuesday, Feb. 13th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Orlando Magic vs. New York Knicks
Kia Center, Orlando
Wednesday, Feb. 14th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏒 Orlando Solar Bears vs. Worcester Railers
Kia Center, Orlando
Thursday, Feb. 15th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Phora
Level 13 Event Center, Orlando, FL
Monday, Feb. 12th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎹 Diana Krall
Walt Disney Theater at Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando, FL
Tuesday, Feb. 13th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎸 Machine Head with Fear Factory, Orbit Culture
House of Blues Orlando, Orlando, FL
Thursday, Feb. 15th | 6:30 PM | (More Info)

🎷 Here Come The Mummies
Plaza Live Orlando, Orlando, FL
Thursday, Feb. 15th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎨 Epcot International Festival of the Arts
Epcot, Lake Buena Vista
Feb. 12th - 18th | (More Info)

🍽 SeaWorld's Seven Seas Food Festival
SeaWorld Orlando
Feb. 12th - 18th | (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 “Orlando within a giant biodome” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Orlando Historical Events

Civil War Impact (1861-1865) - Orlando's role and the effects of the Civil War on the community

The Civil War era (1861-1865) was a tumultuous period for the United States, and Orlando, despite its geographical location far from the main theaters of war, was not insulated from the conflict's impact. At the time, Orlando was a fledgling community, having been officially established only a few years prior. The war's outbreak brought economic hardship and uncertainty to the region, disrupting the lives of the small population that had settled in the area. Orlando's role during the Civil War was primarily supportive, with many of its residents enlisting to serve in the Confederate forces, reflecting the broader sentiments of Florida and the Southern states.

The effects of the Civil War on the Orlando community were multifaceted. The local economy, heavily reliant on agriculture, suffered due to the absence of labor and the redirection of resources to the war effort. Additionally, the community faced the constant threat of raids and skirmishes, which, while not as prevalent in Central Florida as in other parts of the state, still posed a risk to the safety and stability of the settlers. The conflict also left deep social and political divisions in its wake, which the community needed to navigate in the post-war years.

Despite these challenges, the end of the Civil War marked the beginning of a new chapter for Orlando. The Reconstruction era brought changes to the political landscape, including the integration of formerly enslaved people into the community. Orlando's population began to grow, albeit slowly, as the city started to recover from the war's economic impacts. The post-war period set the stage for Orlando's transformation in the ensuing decades, as it evolved from a small, war-affected town into a vibrant urban center. The resilience and adaptability demonstrated by the Orlando community during and after the Civil War laid the groundwork for the city's future growth and development.

Famous People From Orlando

Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811–1896)

Early Life and Passion for Social Justice (1811-1832)

Harriet Beecher Stowe was born in 1811 in Litchfield, Connecticut, into the influential Beecher family. Raised in an environment that valued education and moral activism, Stowe developed a strong sense of social justice early on. Her father, Lyman Beecher, was a prominent preacher, and her siblings were actively involved in various reform movements, setting the stage for Stowe's future advocacy through literature.

Literary Beginnings and Marriage (1833-1850)

Stowe's literary talent emerged as she contributed to magazines and wrote for a local newspaper. In 1836, she married Calvin Ellis Stowe, a theology professor, and the couple shared a deep commitment to the abolitionist cause. Her early works, including stories and textbooks, began to reflect her concerns about slavery and inequality.

"Uncle Tom's Cabin" and National Impact (1851-1852)

Stowe's seminal work, "Uncle Tom's Cabin," was first published as a serial in 1851 and then as a book in 1852. The novel, inspired by the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 and her Christian faith, portrayed the harsh realities of slavery and its moral implications. It became an instant bestseller, significantly influencing public opinion on slavery in the United States and abroad, and solidifying Stowe's position as a leading voice in the abolitionist movement.

Continued Advocacy and Literary Success (1853-1865)

Following the success of "Uncle Tom's Cabin," Stowe continued to write and speak out against slavery, publishing novels, essays, and articles that advocated for emancipation and racial equality. Her works during this period, including "Dred: A Tale of the Great Dismal Swamp," further contributed to the national conversation on slavery and civil rights.

Post-Civil War Efforts and Reconstruction (1866-1877)

After the Civil War, Stowe remained an active figure in the Reconstruction era, advocating for the rights and welfare of freed slaves. She also turned her attention to other social issues, including women's suffrage and education reform, reflecting her broad commitment to social justice.

Life in Florida and Contribution to Local Culture (1878-1896)

Stowe spent her later years wintering in Florida, near Orlando, where she became an advocate for the state's development and conservation. Her experiences in Florida inspired works that highlighted the region's beauty and potential for agriculture and tourism. Stowe's presence in Florida and her writings about the state contributed to its cultural and historical landscape.

Legacy and Enduring Influence (Throughout Career)

Stowe's legacy as the author of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" and a key figure in the abolitionist movement is profound. Her work galvanized anti-slavery sentiment in the years leading up to the Civil War and remains a pivotal piece of American literature, studied for its historical impact and its exploration of themes of freedom, morality, and resistance.

Final Years and Reflections on Achievements (1896)

In her final years, Stowe was celebrated for her contributions to literature and social reform. She reflected on her impact, content in the knowledge that her work had played a part in shaping the course of American history towards greater justice and equality.

Death and Enduring Influence (1896)

Harriet Beecher Stowe passed away in 1896. Her death marked the end of a life dedicated to the power of words to effect social change. Stowe's influence extends beyond her lifetime, as "Uncle Tom's Cabin" and her other works continue to inspire discussions on race, morality, and justice.

Key Achievements:

• Authored "Uncle Tom's Cabin," a seminal work in American literature and a catalyst for the abolitionist movement.

• Played a crucial role in shaping public opinion on slavery and contributing to the abolitionist cause.

• Advocated for social justice issues, including women's rights and educational reform.

• Contributed to the cultural and historical development of Florida through her writings and advocacy.

Harriet Beecher Stowe's journey from a committed abolitionist to the author of one of the most influential novels in American history, and her later years influencing Florida's cultural landscape, showcases her enduring legacy as a powerful voice for social justice and change. Through "Uncle Tom's Cabin" and her lifelong activism, Stowe's work continues to resonate, underscoring the enduring importance of literature in advocating for human rights and dignity.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

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