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Welcome to The Orlando Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• James Beard nominee opens oceanfront eatery.

• FSU falls, Texas climbs rankings.

• A deep-dive into the life of Ray Charles.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“You have the power on your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

 –Marcus Aurelius

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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!

Which Orlando neighborhood is famed for its role as a premier shopping destination, home to luxury brands, upscale boutiques, and fine dining options?

A) The Florida Mall

B) Park Avenue, Winter Park

C) The Mall at Millenia

D) Orlando International Premium Outlets

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The unique attraction in Orlando that allows visitors to experience the thrill of indoor skydiving, simulating a freefall environment in a vertical wind tunnel, is B) iFLY Orlando Indoor Skydiving.

News

💼 Business

James Beard-nominated restaurateur to open oceanfront 'tide-to-table' eatery in Daytona Beach. (link)

Taylor Morrison opening two build-for-rent communities in metro Orlando. (link)

🏒 Sports

FSU drops out of AP Top 25 after 0-2 start; Texas up to No. 3 behind Georgia, Ohio State. (link)

Online fundraiser for Matthew Gaudreau’s widow raises more than $560K as the sports world mourns. (link)

🏦 Finance

Frontier Airlines adds pair of Orlando flights to major metros. (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 Womens Soccer vs. University of Houston Cougars Women's Soccer
4275 E Plaza Dr, Orlando, FL
Thursday, Sep 12th | 7:00 pm | (More Info)

⚽ New England Revolution at Orlando City SC
655 W Church St, Orlando, FL
Saturday, Sep 14th | 7:30 pm | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 The Fall of Troy
The Social, Orlando, FL
Thursday, Sep 12th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤  DJ BMF
Lil' Indies 1036 N Mills Avenue Orlando, FL
Friday, Sep 13th | 10:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎨 Family Fun Day
Lake Nona Town Center, 6877 Tavistock Lakes Blvd, Orlando, FL
Sunday, Sep 15th | 7:30 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 “Urban landscape of Orlando with a focus on pedestrian pathways and green spaces.” 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

The Pulse of Orlando's Music Scene (1950s-1990s) - Development of a vibrant music and nightlife culture.

From the 1950s through the 1990s, Orlando, Florida, experienced a transformative phase that catapulted it from a modest, citrus-growing community to an international tourist destination, largely due to the opening of Walt Disney World in 1971. However, beneath the overshadowing presence of theme parks, a vibrant music and nightlife culture was simultaneously developing, one that would lay the groundwork for Orlando to emerge as a significant incubator for musical talent across various genres. During the 1950s and 1960s, Orlando's music scene was primarily influenced by the sounds of rock 'n' roll, soul, and the early beginnings of rhythm and blues, with local bands performing in small clubs and venues that dotted the city.

As the 1970s and 1980s unfolded, there was a notable shift; the city's nightlife and music scene became more eclectic and energetic. The opening of iconic venues like The Edge and Visage in the 1980s helped cultivate a burgeoning new wave, punk, and indie scene that attracted both local and national acts. This era also witnessed the rise of homegrown talent, who found their initial audiences in these clubs. The diversity of Orlando's music scene was its strength, spanning rock, country, jazz, and an emerging hip-hop scene. Additionally, the region's college and university campuses provided a perpetual influx of young, enthusiastic audiences eager to explore the evolving music landscape, further driving demand for live music and nightclubs.

Entering the 1990s, Orlando experienced an unexpected twist in its musical narrative with the explosive growth of the boy band phenomenon, symbolized by the success of groups like Backstreet Boys and *NSYNC, who were both formed in Orlando. This not only shone an international spotlight on the city but also underscored the diversity and adaptability of Orlando's music scene. Parallel to this mainstream success, the city also fostered a thriving electronic music scene, with local DJs and producers contributing to the global rise of trance, breaks, and house music. Orlando's music and nightlife culture of the 1950s through the 1990s reflect not just the city's growth but its ability to both influence and adapt to the changing dynamics of American popular culture.

Famous People From Orlando

Ray Charles (1930-2004) - Legendary musician who attended school in St. Augustine but performed in Orlando, impacting its music scene.

Ray Charles, a groundbreaking American musician, carved an indelible legacy with his soulful voice and pioneering blend of music that fused R&B, soul, and gospel. His story is a testament to overcoming adversity and showcases his profound impact on the music industry, particularly in Orlando, Florida.

Early Life and Overcoming Blindness (1930-1947)

Born in Albany, Georgia, Ray Charles Robinson faced immense challenges from an early age. At the tender age of five, he began to lose his sight, eventually becoming completely blind by the age of seven. Despite this, his mother instilled in him a sense of independence and resilience. Charles found solace in music, showing an early aptitude for the piano.

Musical Training at St. Augustine School (1947-1949)

Charles attended the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind in St. Augustine, Florida, where he further honed his musical talent. During his time there, he learned to read music and play various instruments in Braille, laying the foundation for his future career.

Breaking Into the Music Scene (1950-1955)

In the early 1950s, after moving to Seattle, Charles began his recording career, initially modeling his style after Nat "King" Cole and Charles Brown. However, he soon found his voice, blending gospel with R&B and pioneering a new genre that would come to be known as soul music.

Achieving Fame with Atlantic Records (1955-1959)

Signing with Atlantic Records marked the beginning of Charles's most prolific period. Hits like "I Got a Woman" and "What'd I Say" catapulted him to fame, showcasing his unique blend of styles and his raw, emotional vocal delivery.

The Genius of Ray Charles (1960-1969)

During the 1960s, Charles's music continued to evolve. His landmark album "Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music" broke racial boundaries within the music industry and widened his appeal. It remains one of his most celebrated works, blending country with R&B and pop.

Activism and Battling Discrimination (1960s)

Beyond his musical contributions, Charles was a vocal advocate for civil rights. He famously canceled a performance in Augusta, Georgia, in 1961 to take a stand against segregated audiences. His activism and commitment to equality were integral to his legacy.

Connection to Orlando and Impact on Its Music Scene (1970s-1980s)

Charles's connection to Florida continued throughout his career, particularly in Orlando where he performed multiple times, leaving an indelible mark on its music scene. His performances there inspired a generation of musicians, and his unique sound influenced the region's music development significantly.

Later Career and Continued Influence (1990-2004)

Even in his later years, Charles remained a significant figure in music, collaborating with contemporary artists and earning accolades for his contributions to music. His 2004 album "Genius Loves Company," released posthumously, won eight Grammy Awards, underscoring his enduring impact on the music world.

Honors and Legacy (Throughout Career)

Ray Charles's contributions to music were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Presidential Medal for the Arts and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His pioneering spirit and musical innovations continue to influence a wide range of genres and artists.

Remembering Ray Charles (2004 and Beyond)

Ray Charles passed away in 2004, but his music and legacy live on. He is remembered not only as a musical genius but as a figure who broke racial and musical barriers, inspiring countless individuals with his message of hope and resilience.

Key Achievements of Ray Charles:

• Innovator of soul music, blending R&B, gospel, and other genres into a unique sound.

• Achieved immense success with hits like "I Got a Woman" and "Georgia on My Mind."

• Broke racial barriers in the music industry and was an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement.

• Awarded the Presidential Medal for the Arts and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

• His music continues to influence a wide array of genres and musicians globally.

Ray Charles's journey from a blind, impoverished child to a musical legend is a story of unparalleled resilience and creativity. His profound impact on music, marked by his innovative fusion of genres and emotional depth, has left a lasting legacy that transcends boundaries. Charles not only transformed the music scene in places like Orlando but also played a pivotal role in the wider cultural movement for civil rights and racial equality.

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-Matthew Larsen

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