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Welcome to The Orlando Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Lake County Cities Grow 25% Post-Pandemic.

• Upcoming Orlando Pride match

• A deep-dive into the life of Mary McLeod Bethune

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The unexamined life is not worth living."

- Socrates

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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!

Orlando is home to the second-largest convention center in the United States. What is its name?

A) The Miami Beach Convention Center

B) The Orange County Convention Center

C) The Tampa Convention Center

D) The Florida Expo Park

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual Halloween event in Orlando famous for its haunted houses, scare zones, and live entertainment is C) Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando.

News

💼 Business

Universal to add hundreds of acres to Epic Universe development district. (link)

These Lake County cities grew by more than 25% since pandemic. (link)

🏒 Sports

Amateur Athletic Union expects biggest Orlando event to grow attendance, economic impact. (link)

USMNT Pride jerseys, explained: Why team will wear rainbow kit during Brazil friendly. (link)

🏦 Finance

More Orlando Red Lobster restaurants may close soon. (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 Pride v Utah Royals FC
Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, FL
Friday, Jun 21st | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

⚽ Orlando City SC v Chicago Fire FC
Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, FL
Saturday, Jun 22nd | 7:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶  Nesto's Jazz Trio
Lil' Indies 1036 N Mills Avenue Orlando, FL
Wednesday, Jun 19th | 10:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤 The Garden
House of Blues Orlando, Orlando, FL
Thursday, Jun 20th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🤡 Trutv Impractical Jokers: The Drive Drive Drive Drive Drive Tour
Addition Financial Arena, Orlando, FL
Friday, Jun 21st | 7:00 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 “Orlando illuminated entirely by bioluminescent plants and structures” 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

Launch of the Orlando Magic's First Season (1989) - Marking Orlando's presence in professional basketball.

In 1989, the city of Orlando etched its name into the annals of professional basketball history with the debut of its very own NBA team, the Orlando Magic. This marked a pivotal moment for Orlando, previously known not just for its sunny beaches and thriving tourist attractions, but now also as a city capable of supporting a major professional sports team. The excitement within the community was palpable as the Magic geared up for their first season, carrying the hopes and dreams of the local populace eager to see their city represented on the national sports stage.

The Orlando Magic's inaugural game was a spectacle of anticipation and enthusiasm, showcasing the team's fresh talents against the more established New York Knicks. Despite the Magic's 118-110 loss, the game was a landmark event, drawing fans from across the region to the Orlando Arena, affectionately known as the "O-Rena." The energy of the crowd was electric, illustrating the community's unwavering support for their new team. The debut season was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, typical of an expansion team, yet it laid the foundation for the Magic's identity and demonstrated their potential in the highly competitive NBA landscape.

Throughout their first season, the Orlando Magic faced the inevitable challenges of building a cohesive team from scratch, yet their perseverance and the city's embracement of the team underscored a successful launch into professional basketball. The Magic's inaugural season not only marked Orlando's presence in the NBA but also galvanized the community, fostering a deep sense of pride and belonging. Over time, the team would grow, celebrating significant victories and facing defeats, all while cementing the love and passion for basketball within the heart of Orlando. The 1989 debut season was just the beginning of a storied adventure in the NBA for the Orlando Magic, setting the stage for future success and memorable moments in the world of professional basketball.

Famous People From Orlando

Mary McLeod Bethune - Educator and civil rights leader, her efforts impacted African-American communities throughout Florida, including Orlando.

Mary McLeod Bethune: 1875-1955

Mary McLeod Bethune emerged as a formidable educator and civil rights leader whose impact on African-American communities spanned across the United States, particularly in Florida, including Orlando. Her life and work showcased a deep commitment to education, equality, and justice for African Americans, and her legacy continues to inspire generations.

Early Years and Pursuit of Education (1875-1895)

Born to former slaves in South Carolina, Mary McLeod Bethune understood early the value of education as a pathway to freedom and advancement. Despite financial challenges, she attended Scotia Seminary, now known as Barber-Scotia College, and later the Moody Bible Institute, laying the groundwork for her lifelong mission in education and civil rights.

Founding of the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute (1904-1910)

In 1904, with a bold vision and $1.50 in her pocket, Bethune founded the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute for Negro Girls in Daytona, Florida. Her dedication to providing quality education for African-American girls led to a school that emphasized not only academic studies but also vocational training, a pioneering model at the time.

Expansion and Influence (1911-1929)

Bethune's leadership and advocacy saw her instituting growing from strength to strength. It merged with the Cookman Institute for Men in 1929 to form Bethune-Cookman College, a coeducational institution providing academic and professional opportunities to African Americans in an era of deep-seated segregation and discrimination.

Political Activism and Civil Rights Leadership (1930-1945)

Bethune's influence extended beyond education into the political arena. She became a leading civil rights activist, advising four U.S. presidents starting with Calvin Coolidge. In 1935, she founded the National Council of Negro Women to advocate for civil rights and women’s empowerment on a national level.

Advisor to Presidents and the Federal Council of Negro Affairs (1936-1945)

Often referred to as the "Black Cabinet," Bethune served as a member of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Federal Council of Negro Affairs. Her close relationship with the Roosevelts, particularly with Eleanor Roosevelt, amplified her advocacy for African Americans and helped usher in new policies aimed at improving their lives.

Bethune's Educational Philosophy and Legacy in Florida (1920s-1955)

Bethune believed in the transformative power of education. Her work in Florida, specifically Orlando, and the broader South laid the foundation for progressive education for African Americans. Her efforts were instrumental in making strides toward integration and equal educational opportunities, affecting the lives of thousands in Florida and beyond.

Civil Rights and Women's Rights Post World War II (1946-1955)

After WWII, Bethune continued to champion civil rights and women’s equality. She played a pivotal role in the integration of the American Red Cross and the Women's Army Corps and remained an outspoken advocate for voting rights, antidiscrimination policies, and international peace.

Final Years and Continuing Influence (1950-1955)

In her final years, Bethune remained active in civil rights and education, leaving a legacy through the Mary McLeod Bethune Foundation, established at her home in Daytona Beach, which became a center for civil rights, education, and historical preservation.

Legacy and Death (1955)

Mary McLeod Bethune passed away in 1955, but her vision and works reverberate through generations. Bethune-Cookman University stands as a testament to her indomitable spirit and commitment to education and civil rights for African Americans.

Bethune's Impact on Orlando and Beyond (1923-1955)

In Orlando, Bethune's impact was felt through her advocacy work and involvement in community projects. She was instrumental in establishing educational programs and institutions that benefitted the African American community in Central Florida, solidifying her legacy in Orlando and beyond.

Key Achievements of Mary McLeod Bethune:

• Founded the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute for Negro Girls, which later became Bethune-Cookman University.

• Established the National Council of Negro Women.

• Served as an advisor to four U.S. Presidents, significantly contributing to the advancement of civil rights policies.

• Became a leading figure in the integration efforts of the American Red Cross and Women's Army Corps.

• Her home and final resting place is a National Historic Landmark, preserving her legacy and contributions to American society.

Mary McLeod Bethune's story is one of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to education and civil rights. Her life’s work significantly advanced opportunities for African Americans, particularly in education, making her one of the most influential figures in American history. Her legacy, particularly through Bethune-Cookman University and her national advocacy for civil rights, continues to inspire and impact lives today.

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-Matthew Larsen

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