Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Orlando Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Kentavious Caldwell-Pope joins Orlando Magic.

• Upcoming Ken Carson performance

• A deep-dive into the life of Jackie Robinson.

• 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

Sponsored

Beat the summer heat with NativePath Hydrate

Don't let the summer heat drain your natural energy. Stay cool, hydrated, and vibrant with NativePath Hydrate - a powerful powdered electrolyte drink mix designed to keep you hydrated as nature intended.

Unlike most hydration supplements, Native Hydrate contains high-quality amino acids and electrolytes, providing optimal hydration without excessive sodium or added sugars.Simply mix one scoop of our refreshing powder into water or your favorite beverage to enjoy increased energy levels, improved muscle strength and bladder function.

And here's the best part: Stock up now and enjoy up to 44% off your purchase, plus receive a free gift and free shipping with every order.

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 Orlando attraction offers a behind-the-scenes look at movie making, with live shows, attractions, and tours of actual movie sets?

A) Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios

B) Universal Studios Florida

C) SeaWorld Orlando

D) LEGOLAND Florida

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual film festival in Orlando known for showcasing independent and international films, offering a platform for filmmakers and artists, is A) The Florida Film Festival.

News

💼 Business

Project with restaurants and more in the works near St. Cloud. (link)

‘It’s years worth of work gone’: Orlando business owner devastated after food truck was stolen. (link)

🏒 Sports

Magic's Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: Catches on with Orlando. (link)

Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda dies at 86. (link)

🏦 Finance

Winter Garden Regional Shopping Center with Aldi gets new 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

🏀 MPM Elite Basketball Summer Camp
8701 Maitland Summit Blvd, Orlando, FL
Monday, Jul 8th | 8:30 am | (More Info)

🏀 AAU Boys World Championships
700 S Victory Way, Orlando, FL
Monday, Jul 8th | 4:00 am | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Ken Carson
Central Florida Fairgrounds, Orlando, FL
Monday, Jul 8th | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤 slchld 'Apology' North America Tour
The Social, Orlando, FL
Tuesday, Jul 9th | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎉 Orlando Premiere Cinemas FREE Summer Kids Movies
3201 East Colonial Drive Orlando, FL
Monday, Jul 11th | 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 “An entirely underground Orlando” 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

SunRail Project Initiation (Late 1990s) - Efforts to improve public transportation and reduce congestion.

The SunRail project, a linchpin in the efforts to enhance public transportation and alleviate congestion in the Orlando area, traces its origins back to the late 1990s. Amidst rapidly expanding population growth and the ensuing traffic congestion issues plaguing the region, local and state officials began exploring viable solutions to address the burgeoning transportation challenges. The vision was to develop a commuter rail system that could serve as a backbone for public transportation in Central Florida, efficiently connecting key communities and reducing the reliance on automobile travel. This concept, initially met with a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism, laid the groundwork for what would later evolve into the SunRail project.

In an effort to catalyze the project's development, stakeholders, including city and county officials, the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority (LYNX), and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), embarked on a series of studies and planning activities. These efforts were aimed at assessing the feasibility, potential ridership, and the environmental impact of the proposed commuter rail system. By identifying strategic routes that paralleled heavily trafficked corridors, particularly those running alongside the Interstate 4 (I-4) corridor, the project aimed to offer a compelling alternative to road travel, promising reduced travel times and a more sustainable mode of transportation for residents and commuters alike.

Despite facing initial hurdles such as funding challenges, environmental concerns, and political hurdles, the groundwork laid in the late 1990s for the SunRail project signified a significant shift towards embracing public transportation solutions in the Orlando area. The collaborative approach among various government entities and stakeholders underscored a collective commitment to addressing the region’s transportation woes through innovative means. As the project gained momentum, it signaled a promising step forward in transforming Orlando's transport landscape, marking the dawn of a new era in Central Florida's pursuit of improved mobility and enhanced quality of life for its residents.

Famous People From Orlando

Jackie Robinson - Broke Major League Baseball's color barrier; played spring training games in Sanford, near Orlando, facing racial challenges.

Jackie Robinson: 1919-1972

Jackie Robinson, a name synonymous with breaking Major League Baseball's color barrier, has become an enduring symbol of courage and determination. His rise through the ranks of professional baseball, amidst a backdrop of racial segregation and prejudice, is a testament to his remarkable skill and resilience.

Early Life and Athletic Beginnings (1919-1938)

Jackie Robinson was born in Cairo, Georgia, and grew up in Pasadena, California. From a young age, his athletic talent was undeniable, excelling in football, basketball, track, and, of course, baseball during his high school years. Despite the racial prejudices of the time, his prowess on the sports field made him a standout athlete.

UCLA and Military Service (1939-1945)

Robinson's athletic career continued to flourish at UCLA, where he became the first athlete to win varsity letters in four sports. However, his college career was cut short due to financial difficulties, leading him to enlist in the Army during World War II. It was in the military that Robinson first began to actively challenge racial discrimination, an effort that resulted in a court-martial and eventual honorable discharge for refusing to move to the back of a segregated bus.

Entering Professional Baseball (1945-1946)

After the war, Robinson turned to professional baseball, playing for the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues. His exceptional skill quickly caught the attention of Branch Rickey, the general manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, who was seeking a player to break Major League Baseball's color barrier.

Breaking the Color Barrier (1947)

In 1947, Jackie Robinson made history when he stepped onto the field for the Brooklyn Dodgers, becoming the first African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era. Facing hostility, racism, and death threats, Robinson exhibited remarkable courage and restraint, focusing on his game amidst a storm of controversy and prejudice.

MVP and Championship Glory (1948-1955)

Robinson's Major League career was marked by numerous achievements, including winning the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1949. He was integral to the Dodgers' success, leading them to six National League pennants and one World Series championship in 1955.

Spring Training in Sanford, Near Orlando (1950s)

During spring training, the Dodgers often played in Florida, a state with strict segregation laws. In Sanford, near Orlando, Robinson and his African American teammates faced significant racial challenges, from being barred from participating in certain games to receiving threats. These experiences underscored the racial tensions of the era and Robinson's role in challenging them.

Post-Baseball Career and Civil Rights Advocacy (1957-1972)

After retiring from baseball in 1956, Robinson remained a prominent figure in the fight for civil rights. He was actively involved in various civil rights causes, using his stature to advocate for equality and justice. He became an influential public speaker and writer, further cementing his legacy beyond baseball.

Death and Legacy (1972)

Jackie Robinson passed away in 1972, but his impact on baseball and American society endures. He opened doors for countless African American athletes and remains a symbol of breaking barriers and challenging the status quo.

Key Achievements:

• First African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era

• National League MVP in 1949

• Played in six National League pennants and won one World Series championship (1955)

• Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962

• His number, 42, was retired across all Major League Baseball teams in 1997

• Posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal

Jackie Robinson's legacy transcends his on-field prowess; his courage and determination in confronting racial prejudice helped change the landscape of American sports and society. By breaking Major League Baseball's color barrier, Robinson opened the door for future generations of athletes, reinforcing the belief in equality and justice. His life and career serve as an enduring inspiration to persevere in the face of adversity and to stand firm in one's convictions.

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