The Barbara-Lee

Good morning, Orlando! Apparently, yesterday was “bat” appreciation day. And I’m not talking about the baseball kind, either. 😀

In today’s Orlando Signal, Thursday (weekend fun) issue:

• The Barbara-Lee

• SoDo After Dark

• Umrao Jaan Ada musical

• + lots of weekend recs

🛑 Don’t forget to click (or tap) the poll at the bottom of this issue so we know if we’re on the right track. Every time you vote in a poll, our cat Luna gets a little treat. 🐈

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On with it!

- Philip

3 QUICK NEWS BITS ⏲️
FHP Cracking the Code on Traffic Snarls

FHP's cutting-edge pilot program, over 18 months in the making, aims to revolutionize how minor crashes are handled in Central Florida. By leveraging live video technology, troopers will soon conduct remote investigations for non-injury incidents, drastically reducing response times.

The groundbreaking strategy involves accessing callers' smartphone cameras to document scenes and gather evidence without requiring an officer's physical presence.

With troopers responding to nearly 50,000 "short form report" crashes in 2022 alone, averaging 65-minute wait times, this innovation could free up over 6,000 hours for proactive patrol by handling just 10% of cases remotely.

As Florida's population boom outpaces trooper allocations, the voluntary program promises to alleviate gridlock and expedite resolutions for minor collisions through seamless tech integration and enhanced efficiency.

A Buzzworthy Teen Scientist

While peers indulge adolescent whims, 16-year-old Atreya Manaswi has dedicated himself to a loftier cause - combating the catastrophic decline of honeybees.

From his Windermere home apiary, the Orlando teen meticulously tends hives, devising an eco-friendly beer botanical blend that goes in a trap inside of a hive to deter predators decimating colonies. Manaswi's quest ignited at 12 after learning the dire plight of these pollinators. Five years of intensive research - coding, 3D printing, marathon days - yielded his proprietary pest deterrent.

His brilliance has reaped top science fair honors and elite speaking invitations. Manaswi's devotion has inspired his 14-year-old brother Aakash's own award-winning formula.

The intrepid naturalist hopes his work revolutionizes commercial beekeeping while offering simple advice: Identify community problems, then endeavor boldly to solve them.

In safeguarding honeybees' existence, Manaswi shields the orchestrators of our food supply.

The Barbara-Lee: A Vintage Voyage of Discovery

The vintage Barbara-Lee riverboat propels passengers back in time, its churning paddles voyaging the languid St. Johns. A lovingly crafted replica of 1800s vessels, it offers a fun weekend activity immersing you in natural wonders - snapping turtles, frolicking dolphins, and soaring birds.

This vibrant ecosystem was the backdrop when the Barbara-Lee's 19th century forerunners conveyed travelers through Spanish Florida.

Today's journeys juxtapose those surroundings with modern comforts installed by new owner Michelle Wyatt. The Maryland tech entrepreneur acquired the craft (formerly River Ship Romance) in late 2023.

While restoring vintage lure, Wyatt upgraded the Barbara-Lee with amenities like a booking website for sightseeing cruises and themed voyages.

Whether craving a unique family outing or celebrating an anniversary, the Barbara-Lee proffers an enchanting odyssey through Florida's wildness and heritage. Experience the magic of gliding through time on these storied waters!

See an expanded version of this article published by our media partner, Winter Park City Lifestyle.

WEEKEND SPOT HIGHLIGHT 🔦
Centeral Florida Earth Day 2024

📍Lake Eola Park (east side). Map to this location.

🕐 Saturday, April 20, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m

Central Florida Earth Day, the region's largest and longest-running Earth Day festival, celebrates its 19th year as a kaleidoscope of eco-conscious experiences.

With free admission for all, including families and furry friends, this alcohol and smoke-free vegan event is a vibrant oasis.

Lose yourself in captivating presentations, plant-based culinary demos, environmental education, and creativity at the Artist Corner.

The Earth Kids Zone sparks youthful discovery while the Animal Haven offers heartwarming pet adoptions. Nourish body and soul with delectable vegan cuisine, uplifting music, and holistic Mind Body Spirit offerings.

At its core, this 55th anniversary Earth Day celebration inspires sustainable living and compassionate choices. It fosters community, supports eco-conscious businesses, and provides a treasure trove of inspiration.

Immerse yourself in the festivities and awaken your reverence for our planet.

TOP 3 FUN RECS FOR THE WEEKEND 🍊
SoDo After Dark - 2024

📍RockPit Brewing. 10 W Illiana St, Orlando, FL 32806. Map to this location.

🕐 Saturday, April 20th from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

On the lively streets of SoDo, an exciting evening awakens Saturday evening - SoDo After Dark.

Hosted by the SoDo Main Street District, RockPit Brewing becomes the energetic center where the rousing sounds of local favorite The Sh-Booms will captivate the crowd. This acclaimed Central Florida band has shared stages with greats like The Roots and rocked festivals from Austin City Limits to Gasparilla.

As their music fills the air, explore a multi-sensory scene. Enjoy craft brews and clever cocktails while browsing unique goods from local artisans and makers. Inviting aromas of flavorful dishes and treats elevates the experience. Your admission provides entry, your first drink, and delightful extras, all supporting public art initiatives.

The SoDo District aims to enhance the area's distinct atmosphere through art reflecting the community's vibrant personality, notes Misty Heath. Immerse yourself in the singular culture of this dynamic district at the lively SoDo After Dark celebration.

Umrao Jaan Ada Musical Play

📍Walt Disney Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts. 445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801. Map to this location.

🕐 Friday, April 19th, 8:30 p.m.

Discover the poetic world of Umrao Jaan Ada, a musical experience combining talent, poetry and captivating music. Led by Neetu Chandra and directed by Rajeev Goswami, this engaging production promises an entertaining blend of visuals and sound.

Drawing inspiration from London's acclaimed Beyond Bollywood and Disco Dancer, Umrao Jaan Ada intertwines storytelling with entertainment. The creativity of Shahyar, Irfan Siddiqui and compositions by Khayyam Sahib and Salim Sulaiman add layers of depth.

More than a performance, this is a cultural celebration curated by Meit Shah - showcasing mujras, qawwalis, thumris and ghazals set against vibrant backdrops evoking Umrao Jaan Ada's world.

Honoring Indian theatre traditions and the elegance of Kathak dance, it's a tribute to timeless artistry.

Tails Wagging, Tongues Panting: DogFest 2024 Takes a Bite Out of Winter Park

📍Central Park, 251 N. Park Ave. Winter Park, FL 32789. Map to this location.

🕐 Saturday, April 20th at 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

DogFest 2024, the much-anticipated annual celebration, arrives in downtown Winter Park on Saturday, bringing a canine-centric carnival to Park Avenue and the verdant grounds of Central Park.

This rare occasion welcomes pups into the normally restricted Central Park, allowing them to roam freely across the lush meadows.

The festivities offer a delightful array for dog enthusiasts, with vendors showcasing canine-themed products, a biergarten for humans and their furry companions, and silent auctions featuring unique finds. A highlight will surely be the promised "lots of puppies," capturing hearts with their adorable antics.

At its core, DogFest supports Canine Companions, an organization providing expertly trained service dogs at no cost to enhance the lives of those with disabilities.

Mark your calendars for this celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where the spirit of doghood takes center stage in Winter Park's West Meadow.

MORE WEEKEND HAPPENINGS 🎭 🥁 

Friday:

The Marsh Melodrama Part 1 | 6 p.m. | Mills 50 | Free (link)

Games We Play: Life’s Going Great Tour | 6 p.m. | Downtown | $20 (link)

Ella & The Bossa Beat | 7 & 9 p.m. | Downtown | $29.50 (link)

Don Omar | 7 p.m. | Downtown | $131-$800 (link)

Amy Sedaris | 7 p.m. | Milk District | $49.50 (link)

Orlando Pride v San Diego Wave | 8 p.m. | Downtown | $15-$80 (link)

Gimme Gimme Disco | South Eola | 9 p.m. | $15 (link)

Please Understand: Nextel, Remi, Blxxdshot, Ogxloop | 9 p.m. | Milk District | Free (link)

Saturday:

Emotions Dance Awakens the Senses with Element Earth- An Immersive Experience | 7:30 p.m. | Loch Haven Park | $30-$45 (link)

Earth Day Market | 10 a.m. | Thornton Park | Free (link)

Osceola Community Health Services Health Festival 2024 | 11 a.m. | Kissimmee | Free (link)

420 Smokeout (BBQ) @ Sideward | 11 a.m. | Milk District | Free (link)

Street66 Band | 5 p.m. | College Park | Free (link)

Gateway District's Jazz & Flavors Fest | 5 p.m. | Conway/Curry Ford | Free-$30 (link)

Memphis May Fire | 5:30 p.m. | Downtown | $25-$30 (link)

April Singles Happy Hour | 6 p.m. | Downtown | $21.99 (link)

Piano Men: Generations | 7 p.m. | Central | $36.75-$49.75 (link)

Ali Siddiq | 7 p.m. | Downtown | $30-$95 (link)

Every Which Way Duo (Sundown Sessions) | 7 p.m. | Mills 50 | Free (link)

Sunday:

Earth Day Funday Clean-Up | 9 a.m. | Downtown | Free (link)

Crunches, Cuban Sandwiches & Cocktails Free Fitness Class | 10 a.m. | Kissimmee | Free (link)

Southern Brunch | 10:30 a.m. | Downtown | $95 (link)

Mellow Market: Spring Edition | 12 p.m. | Audubon Park | Free (link)

Spring Pup Paw-ty! | 1 p.m. | Mills 50 | $10 (link)

Orlando Valkyries vs Atlanta Vibe | 3 p.m. | UCF | $20-$100 (link)

Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra | 7 p.m. | Milk District | $34.50 (link)

Eric Jafet with Pilot Jonezz, Lady Heroine, and Luke Middleton | 7 p.m. | Mills 50 | $10 (link)

THANKS!

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We’ll see you on Monday.

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal