Welcome to The Orlando Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Co-working space in downtown Orlando supports local startups

• Upcoming Olivia Rodrigo performance

• A deep-dive into the life of John Young

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine."

- Roy T. Bennett

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 Orlando annual event that transforms downtown into a haven for artists, musicians, and performers from around the globe?

A) Orlando International Fringe Theater Festival

B) Orlando Art Festival

C) The Florida Film Festival

D) Immerse Orlando

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: 

The Orlando neighborhood where you can find a vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and a popular farmers' market on Sundays is B) Thornton Park.

News

💼 Business

Orlando's tech startup scene gains momentum with several companies receiving national recognition and funding. (link)

The opening of a new co-working space in downtown Orlando aims to support local entrepreneurs and startups. (link)

Orlando International Airport's expansion project nears completion, expected to boost tourism and business travel significantly. (link)

🏒 Sports

UCF Softball's Jada Cody, aiming for a record-breaking season, ranks in top collegiate player lists for her performance behind the plate and at bat. (link)

UCF right fielder Chloe Evans seeks to build on her debut season achievements, including tying the school's single-season triples record. (link)

Shortstop Jasmine Williams, transferring from Oregon, made a significant impact at UCF, earning AAC All-Tournament honors. (link)

Sophomore Aubrey Evans set a new UCF record with 18 doubles in her first collegiate season, leading the team in on-base percentage. (link)

🏦 Finance

Orlando-based fintech startup secures $20 million in Series B funding to expand its digital payment solutions across the Southeast. (link)

A local Orlando credit union launches a groundbreaking mobile banking app designed to enhance customer experience and accessibility. (link)

Orlando's real estate market shows signs of stabilization, with a slight increase in home sales and median prices, indicating a balanced market for buyers and sellers. (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

🏀 UCF Knights Softball vs. Stetson University Hatters Softball
UCF Softball Complex, Orlando, FL
Wednesday, Mar. 6th | 6:00 PM (More info)

🏀 UCF Knights Mens Basketball vs. University of Houston Mens Basketball
Addition Financial Arena, Orlando, FL
Wednesday, Mar. 6th | 7:00 PM (More info)

🏒 Orlando Solar Bears vs. Greenville Swamp Rabbits
Kia Center, Orlando, FL
Wednesday, Mar. 6th | 7:00 PM (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Kaleigh Baker
Lil' Indies, Mills Avenue, Orlando FL
Monday, Mar. 4th | 7:00-9:00 PM (More info)

🎤 Eagles - The Long Goodbye
Kia Center, Orlando, FL
Monday, Mar. 4th | 7:30 PM (More info)

🎷 Olivia Rodrigo - GUTS world tour
Kia Center, Orlando, FL
Tuesday, Mar. 5th | 7:30 PM (More info)

🎹 Hard Swingin' Country Soiree with Decker & Dimitrov
Lil' Indies, Mills Avenue, Orlando FL
Wednesday, Mar. 6th | 7:00-9:00 PM (More info)

Family

🎪 Cirque du Soleil: Drawn to Life
Disney Springs, Orlando FL
Friday, Mar. 8th - 9th | 5:30 & 8:00 PM (More info)

🌺 Fame Orlando
Hard Rock Live Orlando, Orlando, FL
Saturday, Mar 9th, 12:00 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 “A steampunk-themed Orlando with Victorian architecture” 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

Arrival of the Railroad (1880) - Sparked economic growth and population increase.

In the late 19th century, the arrival of the railroad in 1880 marked a pivotal moment in Orlando's history, serving as a catalyst for unprecedented economic growth and a surge in population. Prior to the railroad's arrival, Orlando was a relatively modest settlement, with an economy primarily based on cattle ranching and citrus farming. The introduction of the railroad connected Orlando to major markets in the North and South, making it easier for local farmers and ranchers to sell their products at better prices and for goods and people to move in and out of the area more efficiently. This infrastructural development attracted new residents and investors, drawn by the promise of opportunity and prosperity.

As railroads stretched their steel tendrils across the Florida landscape, they brought along with them a wave of economic opportunities that transformed Orlando from a sleepy agricultural town into a bustling hub of commerce and trade. The ease of transportation facilitated by the railroad led to a boom in the citrus industry, which became one of the backbones of Orlando's economy. Groves expanded, production soared, and Orlando oranges were soon being enjoyed in far-flung markets. Moreover, the railroad made it feasible for tourists to visit the region's attractions, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become one of the world's leading tourist destinations.

The population of Orlando swelled as news of its economic prospects spread, drawing people from across the nation in search of work and a better life. This influx led to the development of new neighborhoods, schools, and businesses, further fueling the city's growth. By the turn of the century, Orlando had established itself as a thriving community, its destiny forever altered by the arrival of the railroad. This period of expansion laid the architectural and social foundation for the modern Orlando, setting it on a path towards becoming a key player in Florida's economy and a beloved destination for millions of visitors each year.

Famous People From Orlando

John Young (1930-2018)

Early Years in Orlando (1930-1948)

John Young was born in San Francisco but moved to Orlando, Florida, at a young age, where he grew up and developed an early fascination with aircraft and space. His Orlando upbringing played a fundamental role in shaping his dreams, as he often gazed at the stars and imagined exploring them. His early education in Orlando's schools laid the groundwork for his future achievements.

A Passion for Flight and Education (1949-1952)

After graduating from high school in Orlando, Young pursued a degree in Aeronautical Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology. There, he honed his technical knowledge and deepened his passion for aviation and space, setting the stage for his career in NASA and his contributions to space exploration.

Joining NASA and The Gemini Program (1962-1966)

John Young joined NASA in 1962, selected as part of the second group of astronauts. His first mission was as a pilot on Gemini 3 in 1965, which marked the first crewed spacecraft for the Gemini program. This experience was critical in preparing Young for future spaceflights, including his command of Gemini 10, where he helped to perfect rendezvous and docking procedures that would be pivotal for the Apollo missions to the moon.

Landing on The Moon: Apollo 16 Commander (1967-1972)

Young's most notable achievement was serving as the commander of Apollo 16 in 1972, the fifth crewed mission to land on the Moon. He became the ninth person to walk on the lunar surface. During the mission, Young and his crew conducted geological surveys and collected samples, significantly contributing to our understanding of the Moon.

The Space Shuttle Era: Commander of STS-1 (1981)

John Young continued to lead in space exploration as the commander of the first Space Shuttle flight, STS-1, aboard Columbia in 1981. This mission inaugurated the Space Shuttle Program, showcasing Young’s versatility and leadership in a new era of spaceflight. His skillful piloting and dedication set a high standard for future shuttle missions.

Dedication to Safety and Legacy at NASA (1982-2004)

Throughout his career, Young was a staunch advocate for spaceflight safety, influenced by his experiences and the tragic losses of Apollo 1 and Challenger crews. Before retiring in 2004, he served in various capacities, including Chief of the Astronaut Office, where he was instrumental in improving safety protocols and mentoring the next generation of astronauts.

Connection to Orlando (Throughout Life)

John Young's connection to Orlando was more than just his birthplace; it was a source of inspiration and pride throughout his life. He often credited his Orlando upbringing for instilling in him the curiosity and determination that propelled his space exploration career. Orlando celebrated Young as a hometown hero, a symbol of what future generations could aspire to achieve.

Awards and Honors (Throughout Career)

John Young's illustrious career earned him numerous awards and honors, including the Congressional Space Medal of Honor, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and induction into the Astronaut Hall of Fame. These recognitions reflected his contributions to space exploration and his role in advancing human spaceflight.

Beyond NASA: Educator and Speaker (2004-2018)

After retiring from NASA, Young remained active in the space community, sharing his experiences and advocating for continued space exploration. He traveled widely, speaking about the importance of exploring space for the future of humanity, and encouraging young people to study science and engineering.

Legacy of a Space Pioneer (2018 and Beyond)

John Young passed away in 2018, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most experienced astronauts in American history. His contributions to space exploration during the Gemini, Apollo, and Space Shuttle programs have left an indelible mark on humanity's quest to explore beyond our planet.

Key Achievements of John Young:

• Flew six space missions across Gemini, Apollo, and the Space Shuttle programs, more than any other astronaut in his era.

• Walked on the Moon as the commander of Apollo 16, contributing valuable geological insights.

• Led the first Space Shuttle flight, STS-1, piloting the Columbia and inaugurating the Space Shuttle era.

• Addressed spaceflight safety rigorously, both as an astronaut and in leadership positions within NASA.

• Earned the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame.

John Young's illustrious career spans some of the most critical periods in American space exploration history. His achievements as an astronaut and his efforts to enhance spaceflight safety have earned him a distinguished place in the annals of space exploration. From his early days in Orlando to his final missions in space, Young exemplified dedication, bravery, and a ceaseless wonder at the universe. His legacy continues to inspire future generations to reach for the stars.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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