Fork & Philanthropy

Good morning, Orlando! This is the Orlando Signal, the local newsletter that's as satisfying as pulling into a Trader Joe’s and finding a parking spot immediately.

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

• Fork & Philanthropy

• Art after dark

• National Honey Bee Day

• + 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 ⏲️
Fork & Philanthropy: Orlando's Magical Dining Turns 19, and Starts Tomorrow!

Orlando's culinary scene is set to dazzle as Visit Orlando's Magical Dining returns for its 19th year.

Starting tomorrow, August 16th to September 30th, a record 150 restaurants will offer three-course feasts at $40 or $60 price points. This extravaganza isn't just about indulgence; it's a feast with a purpose.

Each meal contributes to The Mustard Seed of Central Florida, supporting community members in need. The event's impact extends further with $3,000 grants to six local nonprofits fostering sustainable communities.

With 25 new eateries and nine Michelin-recognized spots, the lineup promises to satisfy every palate.

🔥 Diners can explore the smorgasbord of options (+ full list) on the Orlando Magical Dining website, turning meals into unforgettable Orlando experiences.

Steering Through Shortage With Central Florida's School Bus Driver Crisis

Central Florida faces a critical school bus driver shortage as the academic year approaches, with Orange County hit hardest, seeking 100 drivers.

Neighboring districts also struggle, with Seminole needing 44, Sumter 21, and others following suit. Bill Wen, Orange County's transportation chief, highlights the challenge of finding skilled drivers passionate about working with children.

The district offers $17.19 hourly for newcomers, plus a $2,000 bonus, but prioritizes safety in hiring. Wen stresses the importance of clean driving records and a genuine love for children.

If vacancies persist, route restructuring may be necessary.

However, hope remains as Brevard and Osceola counties have filled all positions, proving the shortage can be overcome with persistence.

The Evolving Saga of Orlando's Beloved Swans

Orlando's Lake Eola, home to a unique swan community, faces an avian crisis. Ravaged attacks by other critters and bird flu, the flock's diversity is threatened.

City Commissioner Patty Sheehan proposes a $19,500 investment for six new swans - mated pairs of Australian Black, Trumpeter, and Whooper breeds.

This initiative aims to bolster the lake's diminishing swan population, which boasts five of the world's six species. Orlando's swan legacy, dating back to the early 1900s, includes the notorious "Billy the Swan," whose taxidermied remains reside in a local museum.

Despite recent tragedies, including the loss of Queenie's cygnets to predators and disease, the city's commitment to its feathered residents remains unwavering. This swan saga epitomizes Orlando's unique bond with its wildlife.

WEEKEND SPOT HIGHLIGHT 🔦
Art After Dark 2024

📍City Arts Downtown. 39 S Magnolia Ave Orlando, FL 32801. Map to this location.

🕐 Saturday, August 17th, 7-10 p.m.

As twilight falls, Orlando's Downtown Arts District awakens for "Art After Dark" - a pulsating fusion of art and nightlife. CityArts' galleries transform into a playground of creativity, featuring interactive experiences with Jennyfer Marie, Ashleigh Mausser, and Angelique Luna.

DJ Lindsey Leigh and Kai Carter provide the soundtrack, while surprise performances keep the energy electric. Indulge in whiskey tastings and Chris Hernandez's culinary artistry as you network and explore.

This sellout phenomenon has tripled in size, embodying the district's mission to spark cultural and economic vibrancy. Don't miss your chance to be part of the masterpiece.

TOP 3 4 FUN RECS FOR THE WEEKEND 🍊
Baldwin Park Community Market - Reggae Night

📍New Broad St. - Baldwin Park. 4982 New Broad St, Orlando, 32814. Map to this location.

🕐 Saturday, August 17th, 5:30-10 p.m.

Dive into a summer sensation at Baldwin Park's Community Market and Reggae Night!

As the sun sets, immerse yourself in a vibrant marketplace brimming with artisanal treasures – from handcrafted jewelry to aromatic soaps. Then, let the reggae rhythms of three local acts sweep you off your feet.

Bring the whole family (pets included!) for an evening of shopping, swaying, and savoring. Explore diverse vendors offering clothing, wellness products, and irresistible baked goods.

Cap off your night with a delicious meal at one of our local eateries. Don't miss this unforgettable fusion of commerce, culture, and community spirit!

Velvet Unplugged featuring Seth Glier

📍Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando. 5800 Universal Blvd Orlando, FL 32819. Map to this location.

🕐 Friday, August 16th, 7 p.m.

Prepare for an enchanting evening with Seth Glier, a musical alchemist who transforms curiosity into melody.

This Grammy-nominated, five-time Independent Music Award winner brings his captivating acoustic performance to Velvet Unplugged. Glier's artistry - a blend of soulful vocals, piano, and guitar - weaves tales that connect hearts and minds.

Bask in his acclaimed hits and experience tracks from "Everything," his latest album painting a vision of harmony between humanity and Earth.

Rosé All Day Wine Tasting

📍Eola View. 150 East Central Boulevard Orlando, FL 32801. Map to this location.

🕐 Friday, August 16th, 6 - 10 p.m.

Step into the Fountain Room at Eola View for a global rosé adventure!

Russo Wine Company (Insta) and Terroir Wine Selections present a pink-hued journey across five countries, all in one enchanting evening. Savor exquisite rosés paired with tantalizing appetizers that will make your senses sing.

From sun-drenched Provence to the rolling hills of Napa, each sip tells a story of tradition. This is a passport to flavor, lovingly curated to showcase the diverse world of rosé.

Paint your evening in shades of pink and indulge in this extraordinary wine experience.

National Honey Bee Day

📍Leu Gardens. 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803. Map to this location.

🕐 Saturday, August 17th, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Buzz into bliss on National Honey Bee Day at Leu Gardens! Join for a hive of activity where UF Master Beekeeper Chris Stalder will unveil the secrets of our striped saviors. Witness a working honey bee hive in action and savor nature's liquid gold. Your taste buds will be abuzz with delight!

Bee-autiful, honey-inspired treasures await - don't forget to bring cash for these golden goodies. Regular garden admission applies, but the memories? Fun.

Don't miss this chance to bee part of something special. It's sure to be a sweet celebration!

MORE WEEKEND HAPPENINGS 🎭 🥁

Friday:

The Corner Gallery: Goes Back to School Comedy Show | 7:30 p.m. | Casselberry | $10-$12 (laugh)

Summer of Grunge with Nothing's Shocking | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $15 (more info)

Smells Like Nirvana, Dead Original | 7 p.m. | South Eola | $18-$20 (more info)

CuBop | 7 & 9 p.m. | Downtown | $25-$35 (more info)

El Laberinto Del Coco | 7:30 p.m. | Downtown | $35 (more info)

Fernwood Quartet Plays Bruckner for his 200th Birthday | 7:30 p.m. | South | $10-$30 (listen)

WWE Friday Night SmackDown | 7:45 p.m. | $35-$400 (get tix)

Mold! with Holyfield, Wells, and Soap Box Derby | 8 p.m. | Mills 50 | $15 (more info)

Electric Feels | 9 p.m. | Downtown | $20 (boogie)

Saturday:

Latin Night @ Boxi Park | 6 p.m. | Lake Nona | $5 cover (vamanos)

Hair She Grows Expo: A Natural Hair and Beauty Event | 11 a.m. | I-Drive/Universal | $20-$25 (deets)

Creative City Project Presents: Wavelength | 8 p.m. | Downtown | $45-$70 (more info)

Winefest 2024 | 6 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $10-$30 (drink vino)

The 2024 Real Radio Poker Tournament | 7 p.m. | Mills 50 | $60 (more)

Hot To Go: Summertime Block Party | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | No cost (get down)

152 Productions Presents: Ace Monroe, Leilani Kilgore, Montra, The Boas | Winter Park Area | 7 p.m. | $15-$20 (more info)

Backstep, Roser Madder, Dopesick, Lovechild | 8 p.m. | Mills 50 | $15 (more info)

Midnight Movies at 8: Wild Zero | 8 p.m. | Ivanhoe Village | No cost (info)

Sunday:

🌯 International Food On Wheels Festival | 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Orlando Festival Park | No cost (stuff your face)

Latin Brunch | 11:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m. | Downtown | $95 (latin vibes)

Local Author Festival | 2 p.m. | Downtown | No cost (info)

Opera in Concert: Summer Concert Series | 2 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $50.47 (more info)

K92.3 All Star Jam | 7:30 p.m. | UCF | $45-$90 (more info)

Modern Moog 2: Wendy Carlos v. Mort Garson | 7 p.m. | Mills 50 | $13 (more info)

Orlando City B vs. NYCFC II | 7 p.m. | Kissimmee | $15 (goooaaal)

Leo Kottke and Julian Lage | 7:30 p.m. | Downtown | $35-$55 (more)

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We’ll see you on Monday.

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal