Eiselstein Ambulance

PRESENTED BY

Good morning, Orlando! I don’t have anything pithy for today’s intro, other than to say, I’m really glad you’re here.

 In today’s issue: 👇

• Orlando's early ambulance services

• "Life" unveiled

• Hannah Stokes soulful sound

• ….and much more

🛑 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. 🐈 😻

Was this email forwarded to you? If so, subscribe here.

Let’s dive in!

- Philip

P.S. Happy birthday to Karma Morrow 🎂

ORLANDO REWIND ⏪
The Eiselstein Saga of Ambulance Advertising

In the pre-1960s era, Orlando's ambulance services were a battleground where funeral homes fiercely vied for the city's prestigious emergency call contract through an annual bidding process. The victor basks in official glory, while the defeated could only operate privately.

This clash sparked fierce competition, with the Eiselstein Brothers Funeral Home igniting a marketing inferno centered on ambulances that burned brightly for nearly two decades.

Established in 1919, the Eiselstein Brothers (Will & Dana) wasted no time promoting their yet-to-arrive custom ambulance upon opening their Orlando location in 1928. Their elaborate advertising sparked a marketing maelstrom, with rivals touting trained attendants, innovative amenities, and even displaying ambulances at exhibitions.

The Eiselsteins’ emphasized speed, comfort, and innovative design, their ambulance hailed as a marketing template.

Throughout the 1930s, they continued upgrading and advertising their widest ambulance with heated waters and baby cradles, garnering celebrity endorsements.

In the 1940s, they boasted separate linens for the living and deceased, and Orlando's only air-conditioned ambulance, prompting competitors to decry air conditioning as dangerous for patients.

The Eiselstein flame flickered after Dana's death in 1949 and new ownership.

By the late 1960s, wage-hour laws forced funeral homes to cease competing for the city's contract, ending the self-aggrandizing chronicles that marked Orlando's advertising history and the ambulance's evolution.

PRESENTED BY THE ST. JOHNS RIVERSHIP CO.
The Barbara Lee Comedy Wedding: A Dinner Theatre Adventure

Imagine a motley crew of misplaced New Yorkers descending upon the "Barbara Lee" riverboat in Sanford, for what promises to be one of the most entertaining, madcap weddings ever witnessed on the St. Johns River.

As unsuspecting "wedding guests," you'll join the heart of the action, a whirlwind of comedic chaos where everything that can go wrong, undoubtedly will.

The "Barbara Lee Comedy Wedding" marks a triumphant return to the "not-so-high seas," following a successful 4-year run aboard previous Rivership Romance.

🔥 Enjoy a three-hour cruise on the beautiful St. Johns River, while indulging in a four-course meal and drinks as you bear witness to the comical hijinks of the hapless bride and groom in this immersive theatrical extravaganza.

(Wedding gifts not required but Uncle Salvatore will notice if you stiff the wedding couple.) 😀

👉 Get more info and book your tickets, right here.

THE SQUEEZE 🍊
Florida's MSFH Grant Program: A Lifeline for Homeowners

The My Safe Florida Home (MSFH) grant program, set to relaunch on July 1 with an additional $200 million in funding, aims to provide relief to Florida homeowners facing high insurance premiums and hurricane threats.

The revamped program prioritizes older and low-income homeowners, offering free wind mitigation inspections and grant money for home improvements.

Despite the program's potential benefits, local insurance agents report that many eligible homeowners may be missing out due to a lack of awareness and understanding. Senior sales executive Anthony Viscuso believes the lack of participation can be attributed to insufficient education by insurance agents.

The program's success will depend on efforts to raise awareness and encourage participation among eligible homeowners as Florida braces for another hurricane season.

"Life" Unveiled: Orlando Science Center's Nature Immersion Masterpiece

The Orlando Science Center unveils its ambitious 10,000-square-foot "Life" exhibit, promoting sustainability and conservation through immersive nature experiences to the public. Comprising three distinct habitats – Ocean, Rainforest, and Swamp – visitors embark on a captivating journey.

The Ocean realm boasts a 360-degree aquatic wonderland with touchable marine life, while the free-flight aviary soars overhead with parrots and songbirds. Meandering tortoises and mischievous monkeys enliven the landscape.

The Rainforest canopy envelops explorers in lush greenery, and the Swamp delights with its squirrel track showering harmless "turds" on unsuspecting guests.

Burrowing owls stand sentry, reminding all of nature's delicate equilibrium. This triumph celebrates our planet's wonders while underscoring the vital importance of environmental stewardship.

Hannah Stokes Captivates with Soulful Sound on Orlando's Jazz Stage

With the recent opening of Judson's Live at the Dr. Phillips Center, local jazz artists like Hannah Stokes are having their chance to glow just as much as nationally recognized acts.

At 15, a chance encounter with Jon Foreman from Switchfoot ignited Stokes' passion for songwriting. She immersed herself in jazz at Rollins College, drawing inspiration from Carole King, Aretha Franklin, and Motown. Stokes' soulful vocals and unique sound captivated a sold-out crowd during her debut at Judson's Live, validating her talent.

She believes Orlando's diverse music scene, influenced by immigrants bringing folk, metal, and Latin traditions, sets it apart.

Though doubts about her work's value lingered, a common struggle for artists, Stokes persevered. Her transcendent performance left an indelible mark on Orlando's jazz legacy, ensuring her return to Judson's Live on May 29th with the hope of sharing her magic with even more listeners.

Orlando's Live Music Scene Heats Up with a $25 Ticket Bonanza

Love live music? Mark your calendars for Wednesday at 10am!

Live Nation's Concert Week returns for its 10th year, offering music lovers in Orlando the chance to snag $25 tickets to nearly 30 shows available.

👉 The all-in price means no extra fees, just taxes.

With a diverse lineup featuring Sum 41, Silversun Pickups, P!nk, Gunna, Parker McCollum, and Hawthorne Heights across iconic venues like the House of Blues and Dr. Phillips Center, there's something for everyone.

These discounted tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 8th and will be available through May 14th, while supplies last.

TASTY NEWS 🧑‍🍳
Orlando Eateries On Their Way

1️⃣ Grazie Modern Italian Kitchen - An Italian Culinary Odyssey Awaits

Nazih Sebaali's Grazie Modern Italian Kitchen opens this month at 3101 Corrine Drive, Audubon Park. The menu celebrates Italy's diverse cuisine, from classic pasta to wood-fired pizza and fresh seafood. Using the finest local ingredients, Grazie's chefs craft each dish with passion, transporting diners on an unforgettable culinary journey through the heart of Italy.

2️⃣ Mango Fresh - Latin Flavors Ignite Downtown

A Latin-inspired juice, sandwich, and salad bar, has just opened at 361 N. Rosalind Ave. Their standout mango biche features mango noodles and chunks with tantalizing toppings like Chamoy, Tajín, condensed milk, salt, vinegar, and chocolate drizzle. This innovative eatery promises a refreshing and unforgettable dining experience in the heart of downtown right next to The Drake.

3️⃣ Hot Asian Buns - Sanford's Culinary Dream Takes Flight

Chef Jimmy Nguyen and Chau Vo are transforming their beloved Sanford, Florida food truck into a captivating fast-casual restaurant. Set to open in June/July, the brick-and-mortar haven will feature an expanded menu of irresistible bao buns, tantalizing noodles, and Japanese/South Korean beers, all served in a cozy atmosphere with inviting patio seating.

#ORLANDOSIGNAL 📸

UCF’s Flying Horse Big Band’s Love Lost and Found

📷 via @ucfcah |📍Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Tag @orlandosignal to get your photo featured in the newsletter!

FOODIE FIND, FORK YEAH! 🤩
Jack & Honey's Diner

📍808 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801, or map to this location, right here.

Thornton Parks semi-recently opened gem by Wendy Connor and Jason Lambert, pays homage to Lambert's grandparents while redefining the brunch experience at Jack & Honey’s Diner.

Chef Hannah Wicker's culinary prowess shines through dishes like the crispy "Honey's chicken and waffles" and the indulgent pork belly B.L.T. The "wagyu" sliders offer a smashburger-esque hangover cure, while the airline chicken breast emerges as an unexpected star.

The honeycomb/bee-adorned interior and welcoming bar create a chill atmosphere for denizens to gather. Jack and Honey's potential to become a buzzing brunch destination is undeniable, weaving together nostalgia and innovation in Thornton Park's culinary fabric.

MORE PULP! 😎
Weekday things to check out

> Starting Tuesday, The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens is presenting Gordon Parks: Power of Photography featuring the 1943 photo essay by Gordon Parks documenting Mary McLeod Bethune (link)

> On Tuesday at 5pm, The Drake is hosting a four-course Woodford Reserve Bourbon Tasting. A bonus dessert course will also be offered, all for $50 (link)

> On Thursday, catch SHREK which is part of the Popcorn Flicks in the Park series, taking place in Central Park, Winter Park once a month and it’s FREE and open to the public! (link)

> On Thursday, learn the basics of gardening during Florida’s hottest season and receive heat tolerant seeds to start the season off right with the UF IFAS Extension Orange County for their Summer Vegetable Gardening class. (link)

> Starting Thursday, check out George M. Cohan Tonight! Meet “The Yankee Doodle Boy” himself in this high energy, one-man journey though the life, music, and artistry of this legendary entertainer. The Off-Broadway musical is a delightful salute to the man who almost single-handedly invented the American musical comedy! (link)

> ANYTIME, Sushi Yama, offering all-you-can-eat sushi for $32.95 per person ($20.95 for lunch), has recently opened at 6748 Grand National Drive near South Kirkman Road (link)

THANKS!

Interested in reaching smart readers like you? To become an Orlando Signal partner, start a conversation here.

Thanks for reading! I’ll see you again on Thursday’s weekend fun issue.

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal