Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Orlando Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Kappy's Subs reopens after closure.

• Napier's Florida plan falters, Gators undecided.

• A deep-dive into the life of Billy Graham.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"I would rather die of passion than of boredom."

— Vincent van Gogh

Sponsored

Invest in the asset class predicted to grow +$700 million by 2026

Looking to make smart money moves in 2024? How about investing in a market that's predicted to grow by nearly +$700m over the next few years, according to Deloitte.

Fortunately, it's never been easier for everyday investors to take advantage of this growth trend, thanks to the top platform for investing in shares of blue-chip art, Masterworks. 

Masterworks clients have already entrusted the platform with $1 billion. Isn’t it time you joined them?

Investing involves risk and past performance is not indicative of future returns. See important Reg A disclosures and aggregate advisory performance masterworks.com/cd.

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 area in Orlando is known for its extensive network of parks and recreational facilities, including a renowned botanical garden?

A) Lake Eola Heights

B) Leu Gardens

C) Baldwin Park

D) Loch Haven Park

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Orlando venue recognized for its significant contributions to the performing arts, hosting Broadway shows, ballets, and orchestral performances, is B) The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

News

💼 Business

Iconic Maitland sandwich shop Kappy's Subs to reopen after brief closure. (link)

Orlando Ballet's bounce-back includes ambitious programming, innovative solutions. (link)

🏒 Sports

Napier's plan to fix Florida is now bust, but the Gators aren't quite ready to fire him. (link)

WNBA awards Portland an expansion franchise that will begin play in 2026. (link)

🏦 Finance

LabCorp slashes workforce in Melbourne after $237.5 million acquisition. (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 Mens Soccer vs. Georgia State Panthers Men's Soccer
UCF Soccer and Track Complex, Orlando, FL
Fri • Sep 27 • 7:00 PM | (More Info)

⚽ Orlando Pride v Houston Dash
Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, FL
Sat • Sep 28 • 7:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Violent Femmes
House of Blues Orlando, Orlando, FL
Thu • Sep 26 • 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤  Quarters Of Change
The Social, Orlando, FL
Fri • Sep 27 • 6:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🎨 Bajo La Luna Music & Art Fest 2024
4603 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL
Saturday, 28 September, 2024 at 3:00 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 urban zoo in Orlando with holographic animals” 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 Orlando Magic Reach NBA Finals (1995) - Highlighting the city's sports achievements.

The Orlando Magic's historic journey to the NBA Finals in 1995 marked a significant milestone not only for the team but for the city of Orlando at large. Founded in 1989 as an expansion team, the Magic quickly evolved from newcomers to contenders, capturing the imagination of basketball fans in Central Florida. The 1994-95 season was a magical era for Orlando, symbolizing the city's burgeoning status in the competitive landscape of American sports. Under the guidance of coach Brian Hill and led by the dynamic duo of Shaquille O'Neal and Penny Hardaway, the Magic finished the regular season with a remarkable 57-25 record, clinching the Atlantic Division title and securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference.

The playoffs that year underscored Orlando's determination and talent. The Magic's postseason journey was both thrilling and historic, leading them to decisive victories over the Boston Celtics, the Chicago Bulls, and the Indiana Pacers. Defeating Michael Jordan’s Bulls, especially, resonated deeply with the Orlando fans, showcasing the Magic as a formidable force in the NBA. Their success galvanized the city, uniting fans and residents in anticipation and pride. The culmination of their efforts was reaching the NBA Finals, a dream realized for the young franchise. Though the team was ultimately bested by the Houston Rockets, the series was competitive and highlighted the Magic's resilience and potential.

The Orlando Magic's run to the 1995 NBA Finals was more than just a sports achievement; it was a seminal event for the city of Orlando. It signaled the arrival of Orlando on the national sports stage, transcending basketball to epitomize the growth and spirit of the community. The team’s success during this period fostered a deep sense of pride and belonging among the local population, enhancing the city's identity and unity. This era of the Magic remains one of the most celebrated chapters in Orlando's sports history, illustrating the profound impact that athletic achievements can have on a city's culture and international reputation.

Famous People From Orlando

Billy Graham (1918-2018) - Evangelist who held significant crusades in Orlando, impacting the religious landscape

Billy Graham stands as one of the most influential Christian evangelists of the 20th century, whose message of salvation through Jesus Christ reached millions worldwide. His crusades, books, and radio and television broadcasts made him a pivotal figure in reshaping the religious landscape.

Early Years and Spiritual Awakening (1918-1934)

Born on a dairy farm near Charlotte, North Carolina, Billy Graham was raised in a Christian home but didn’t fully embrace his faith until his teenage years. In 1934, he attended a series of revival meetings led by evangelist Mordecai Ham, which sparked his spiritual awakening and commitment to Christ.

The Path to Ministry (1935-1943)

Graham pursued his theological education at the Florida Bible Institute (now Trinity College) and later at Wheaton College in Illinois, where he graduated in anthropology. It was during these formative years that he felt the calling to the ministry, honing his preaching skills and developing his evangelistic approach.

The Launch of a Global Ministry (1944-1950)

After serving as a pastor and then as a Youth for Christ evangelist, Graham's ministry took a significant turn in 1949 with the Los Angeles Crusade. Originally scheduled for three weeks, the meetings extended to eight, drawing massive crowds and catapulting Graham to national attention.

A Crusade Across Continents (1950-1960)

Throughout the 1950s, Graham's ministry reached an international audience, with crusades in Europe, Asia, and Africa. His approach was marked by a simple, direct message of faith in Christ, which resonated across cultural and denominational lines.

Counselor to Presidents (1961-1970)

Graham’s influence extended beyond the pulpit into the White House, where he became a spiritual adviser to multiple U.S. presidents, from Dwight D. Eisenhower to Barack Obama. This role highlighted Graham’s impact on American religious life and politics.

Orlando and the Expanding Crusade (1971-1983)

In the 1970s and early 1980s, Graham's crusades continued to grow, including significant events in Orlando, Florida. These gatherings drew hundreds of thousands and were marked by Graham's consistent message of hope and salvation, influencing the religious landscape of the city and beyond.

A Voice for Unity and Reconciliation (1984-1999)

Graham devoted part of his ministry to breaking down racial and denominational barriers, preaching against apartheid and collaborating with religious leaders from various backgrounds. His efforts toward unity reflected a broadening view of the Christian mission in a divided world.

Stepping Back and Passing the Torch (2000-2018)

In his later years, Graham gradually withdrew from public ministry, passing the leadership of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association to his son, Franklin Graham. Despite stepping back, he remained a respected figure, symbolizing evangelism’s enduring legacy.

Legacy and Impact (Post-2018)

Since his passing in 2018, Billy Graham's influence persists through his written works, recorded sermons, and the ongoing work of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. His message of faith and hope continues to inspire new generations around the globe.

Remembering Billy Graham (2018 and Beyond)

The world mourned the loss of Billy Graham, but his legacy as a preacher who brought evangelical Christianity into the mainstream endures. His crusades, personal integrity, and commitment to spreading the Gospel left an indelible mark on the religious and cultural history of the 20th century.

Key Achievements of Billy Graham:

• Conducted more than 400 crusades in 185 countries, reaching millions with the message of Christianity.

• Served as a spiritual adviser to multiple U.S. presidents, showcasing his influence on American religious life and politics.

• Played a significant role in the civil rights movement, fostering racial integration in his crusades and advocating for social justice.

• Authored numerous books, including his autobiography "Just As I Am," which has inspired millions.

• Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, among other honors, reflecting his impact beyond the religious realm.

Billy Graham’s life story is a powerful testament to the reach and impact one individual can have through faith, perseverance, and a commitment to sharing a message of hope. He bridged divisions between denominations, participated actively in key social issues of his time, and remained a steadfast voice for unity and peace, leaving a legacy that transcends borders and generations.

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