Welcome to The Orlando Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Orlando Festival of Laughs

• Upcoming Kaleigh Baker performance

• A deep-dive into the life of Spessard Holland

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success.”

— Dale Carnegie

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 is the name of the largest outlet shopping destination in Orlando, known for its designer and name-brand stores at discount prices?

A) The Mall at Millenia

B) Orlando International Premium Outlets

C) Florida Mall

D) Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

"UCF" stands for A) University of Central Florida.

News

💼 Business

Orlando International Airport Spring Break Traffic: Anticipates over 7 million travelers, marking a record increase for the Spring Break season​​. (link)

Chinese Restaurant Temporarily Shuts Down: Closed due to health inspection finding over 30 flies​​. (link)

Sri Lankan Cuisine Restaurant Closure: Temporarily closed following discovery of roaches during health inspection​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

Orlando Secures Title as the Ultimate Sports Event Capital of the United States. (link)

Orlando City SC kicks off the MLS season with a win over Atlanta United FC at Exploria Stadium. (link)

Orlando Pride Clinches Season Opener Draw Against Racing Louisville, Secures Early Point in NWSL Standing. (link)

UCF Knights' basketball team advances to the next round in the NCAA March Madness Tournament. (link)

🏦 Finance

Orlando's Rental Market Expands with 'Morlando', a 16K Square Foot Luxury Vacation Home. (link)

Universal Theme Parks Unveil 'Butterbeer Season' in Orlando and Hollywood with Exclusive Treats (link)

Orlando Ranks Among Top US Cities for Financial Distress Among Residents. (link)

Justin Wetherill Assumes Leadership at Jeff's Bagel Run, Eyeing Significant Expansion. (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. Florida Everblades
Kia Center, Orlando, FL
Monday, Mar 25th | 7:00 PM (More info)

🏀 Orlando Magic vs. Golden State Warriors
Kia Center, Orlando, FL
Wednesday, Mar 27th | 7:00 PM (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Kaleigh Baker
Lil' Indies 1036 N Mills Avenue Orlando, FL
Monday, Mar 25th | 7:00 - 9:00 PM (More info)

🎤 Waterparks
House of Blues Orlando, Orlando, FL
Tuesday, Mar 26th | 6:00 PM (More info)

💃 Patrick Hagerman
Lil' Indies 1036 N Mills Avenue Orlando, FL
Tuesday, Mar 26th | 7:00 - 9:00 PM (More info)

Family

🎢 NOAHFINNCE
The Social, Orlando, FL
Wednesday, Mar 27th | 6:00 PM | (More info)

🎭 Orlando Festival of Laughs
Addition Financial Arena, Orlando, FL
Friday, Mar 29th | 8:00 PM | (More info)

🐝 TommyInnit How To Be A Billionaire
Hard Rock Live Orlando, Orlando, FL
Sunday, Mar 31st | 8:00 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 “Futuristic Orlando with a network of sky bridges” 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

Orlando During World War I (1914-1918)=

During the tumultuous years of World War I (1914-1918), Orlando, Florida, though far removed from the battlefronts of Europe, was nonetheless deeply engaged in supporting the Allied war effort. This period marked a significant transformation for the city, emerging from a rural citrus economy into a burgeoning community ready to contribute to national causes. The citizens of Orlando rallied to the call, showcasing patriotism and unity in a multitude of efforts aimed at aiding their countrymen and the Allies overseas.

Orlando's contributions to the World War I effort were multifaceted, focusing on both military support and humanitarian aid. Locally, a notable number of men enlisted to serve, leaving their families and citrus groves to join the armed forces. Their bravery and sacrifice were a point of pride for the community, which supported the war effort enthusiastically on the home front. Women in Orlando, meanwhile, played a crucial role through organizations such as the Red Cross, engaging in activities ranging from knitting socks and blankets for soldiers to organizing fund drives. These endeavors helped provide the necessary resources and moral support for those fighting abroad.

On a broader scale, the community undertook efforts to conserve food and resources, adhering to national calls for meatless and wheatless days to support the troops. Patriotic events and liberty bond drives were prevalent, effectively rallying the community to contribute financially to the war cause. Orlando's agricultural output, particularly its citrus production, was directed towards supporting the nation's needs during this critical time. Though small in scale compared to larger cities, Orlando’s collective efforts during World War I exemplified the city's growing sense of identity and unity, laying foundational values of community support and patriotism that would continue to evolve in the years to come.

Famous People From Orlando

Spessard Holland: (1892-1971)

Spessard Holland

Spessard Holland, a distinguished American politician and statesman, left a lasting legacy in Florida's history. As the Governor of Florida and a U.S. Senator, Holland's contributions to state and national politics were substantial, impacting the lives of Floridians, including those in Orlando.

Early Years and Education (1892-1916)

Born in Bartow, Florida, Spessard Holland was rooted deeply in the state from the beginning. His early life on his family's citrus farm introduced him to the hard-working ethos of Florida's agricultural community. Holland excelled academically, attending Emory College before transferring to the University of Florida, where he obtained his law degree, setting the stage for his future in public service.

Military Service World War I (1917-1919)

Holland's sense of duty extended beyond the courtroom and into the battlefield during World War I. Serving as an artillery officer, he witnessed the challenges and turmoil of international conflict, experiences that would later influence his pragmatic approach to politics and governance.

Rising Politician in Florida (1920-1940)

After the war, Holland resumed his law practice and began his political career. His charisma and commitment to public welfare quickly elevated him within the Democratic Party. As a state senator, Holland advocated for education, agricultural development, and infrastructure improvements, laying the groundwork for his gubernatorial campaign.

Governor of Florida (1941-1945)

Holland's tenure as Governor was marked by his strong leadership during World War II. He championed state defense initiatives, supported the growth of military bases, and implemented policies to improve the state's economy and educational system. His efforts not only navigated Florida through the challenges of war but also positioned the state for post-war prosperity.

Connection to Orlando (1940s)

As Governor, Holland played a significant role in the development and expansion of Orlando. Recognizing the potential of Central Florida, he supported infrastructure projects that facilitated the region's growth. His policies helped Orlando transition from a citrus-focused economy to a burgeoning center for commerce and tourism.

U.S. Senator from Florida (1946-1971)

Holland continued his service to Florida as a U.S. Senator, where he was respected for his moderation and effectiveness. He worked diligently on agricultural, veteran, and civil rights issues, striving to balance state interests with national concerns. His advocacy for Florida's space industry contributed to the establishment of the Kennedy Space Center, further impacting Orlando's economy.

Civil Rights and Legislative Impact (1950s-1960s)

Though Holland is often remembered for his conservative stance on civil rights, his legislative contributions in other areas, such as veterans' benefits and environmental conservation, were significant. He played a key role in shaping policy on national defense, social security, and the burgeoning space program.

Legacy and Retirement (1971)

After a distinguished career in public service, Holland retired from the Senate. He returned to Bartow, where he remained active in community affairs until his passing in 1971. Holland's legacy is evident in the institutions and policies he helped establish, which continue to benefit Florida and its residents.

Awards and Recognition (Throughout Career)

Holland's contributions were recognized through numerous awards and honors. His dedication to Florida's development and welfare earned him a respected place in state and national history.

Reflections on a Life of Service (Post-1971)

Spessard Holland's death marked the end of an era in Florida politics. His efforts as Governor and Senator left an indelible mark on the state, particularly in his influence on Orlando's development and the broader trajectory of Florida's mid-20th-century growth.

Key Achievements of Spessard Holland:

• Served as Governor of Florida during crucial World War II years, promoting economic and educational reforms.

• Played a significant role in Orlando's development, supporting infrastructure improvements that facilitated regional growth.

• Represented Florida in the U.S. Senate, where he worked on vital issues such as agriculture, veteran affairs, and civil rights, despite his conservative stance.

• Advocated for the space industry, contributing to the establishment of the Kennedy Space Center.

• Left a lasting legacy in environmental conservation, veterans' benefits, and social security reforms.

Spessard Holland's biography is a testament to a lifetime of public service dedicated to the welfare and development of Florida. As Governor and U.S. Senator, his efforts profoundly shaped the state's trajectory, especially in central regions like Orlando. He navigated Florida through war and post-war challenges, contributing to its mid-20th-century growth and prosperity. Holland's legacy, marked by dedication to public service and commitment to state and national welfare, remains influential in Florida's political and social landscape.

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-Matthew Larsen

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