Hollieanna

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Good morning, Orlando! I trust you all enjoyed a spectacular Independence Day! Back with you now is the Orlando Signal. Bringing you news that's vibrant, bite-sized, and as refreshing as a popsicle on a hot summer day.

 In today’s issue: 👇

• Hollieanna Groves

• Winter Park High's time capsule

• Canvas

• ….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. 🐈 😻

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Let’s dive in!

- Philip

ORLANDO REWIND ⏪
From Midwest to Maitland: The Enduring Story of Hollieanna Groves

Situated in Maitland's commercial district, Hollieanna Groves has been a citrus haven since 1953. This family-owned business, founded by Midwestern retail moguls Hollie and Anna Oakley, bears their combined names as a testament to its origins.

The Oakleys, who made their fortune with 58 economy stores across the Midwest, began wintering in Florida in 1927. Their gradual transition south culminated in Hollieanna Groves, a retirement venture that proved short-lived for the aging couple.

In 1954, Glenn Lingle Jr. and his wife Jane took the reins, marking the beginning of a multi-generational family legacy.

The Lingles, with deep roots in Seminole County, steered the business through challenges like the devastating freezes of the 1980s, which forced them to expand their groves southward.

Today, siblings Kurt, Jason, and Alinda Lingle manage 190 acres of groves from Geneva to Fort Pierce. The 1947 packinghouse still operates, sorting a variety of citrus by hand. Their freshly squeezed, unpasteurized juice remains a customer favorite.

From November to April, Hollieanna offers not just citrus but a slice of Old Florida. Amidst modern development, it stands as a living link to the region's agricultural past, preserved through family dedication and community support.

(Learn more about Hollieanna Groves from Jason Byrne, right here.)

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER
Keys to the Past: Unlocking Central Florida's Hospitality Heritage Exhibit

👉 Mark your calendars, then step into Central Florida's hospitality time capsule!

1️⃣ From July 13 to October 13, 2024, "Home Away from Home: Hotels of Central Florida" showcases the region's iconic, historical hotels, from Orlando's beloved San Juan and Angebilt to the game-changing Disney World resorts.

This pocket exhibit illuminates the evolution of Central Florida's hospitality, focusing specially on the original trio of pioneering Walt Disney World resorts that forever altered the state's tourism landscape after Magic Kingdom's 1971 launch.

2️⃣ Then, on Thursday, July 18, join the History Center for a free companion event as part of their Third Thursday @ The Museum called, "Curator Conversations: Exploring Historic Hotels of Central Florida," where Emily Coughlan and Kara Kovalev bring these historic havens to life.

You’ll dive deeper into the exhibit's treasures and uncover hidden gems from the History Center's collection, with each item telling a tale of bygone luxury and adventure.

THE SQUEEZE 🍊
Unearthing History With Winter Park High's Time Capsule Tale

During renovations at Winter Park High, a 1985 time capsule emerged, bridging four decades. The black container, inscribed "Winter Park High 1985," held a Polaroid of three smiling students: Denise, Johnny, and Monica.

Orange County Public Schools shared the discovery on social media, prompting a swift response from Monica Keegan, who identified herself and her friends.

This relic from an era of Wham's hits and New Coke's debut will join other capsules in the school's Media Center, forming a tangible timeline of student life.

The unexpected find serves as a poignant reminder of enduring friendships and the power of shared memories, connecting past and present generations of Winter Park High.

Defying Death: Theatre South's 'Cyclone' Whirls Into Extended Run

Theatre South Playhouse in Dr. Phillips is riding high on the success of "Ride the Cyclone," a darkly whimsical musical about deceased students on a roller coaster vying for a second chance at life.

The show's unexpected popularity has prompted a series of "pop-up" performances extending through summer and possibly into October. Executive director Hillary Brook sees this as both an artistic triumph and a financial lifeline amid recent funding cuts.

The production, choreographed by Chris Payen and musically directed by Alex LaPlante, has resonated deeply with audiences, especially younger viewers. As "Cyclone" continues its extended run, Theatre South prepares for future productions, including "Into the Woods Jr." and "Annie."

Approaching its 15th anniversary, this nonprofit theater remains a vital creative force in the community.

A Journey Through America's ID Crisis

A silent crisis unfolds as 21 million adult US citizens navigate life without valid ID, barred from basic services like air travel, obtaining a bank account, or getting prescription meds. IDignity, a nonprofit, tackles this issue head-on in Central Florida, transforming lives like Karelyn Rodriguez's.

Once homeless after losing her documents in an eviction, Rodriguez now thrives as a medical receptionist, her turnaround facilitated by IDignity's assistance.

The organization, currently operating from temporary spaces, plans a $12 million permanent facility in Orlando, aiming to increase capacity by 30%. With $9.6 million raised and construction set to finish by 2025, IDignity's expansion promises hope for countless invisible citizens.

As Rodriguez prepares for homeownership through Habitat for Humanity, her journey exemplifies the profound impact of reclaiming one's legal identity in modern America.

Light Takes Center Stage With Creative City Project's Dazzling Opus

Orlando's cultural scene is set to dazzle with "Wavelength," a groundbreaking fusion of light and sound on August 17.

Creative City Project's one-night spectacle at Steinmetz Hall promises to redefine live performance. Imagine 200 ten-foot light pillars suspended amidst lasers and projections, creating a living art installation.

Twenty vocalists will surround the audience from the Grand Tier, while 12 orchestral musicians and a six-piece rock band fill the space with melody.

Artistic Director Cole NeSmith envisions light as the star, with music as its perfect partner. This immersive experience, backed by Massey Services, Inc., offers two shows at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets start at $40 for this glimpse into entertainment's future.

TASTY NEWS 🧑‍🍳
Orlando Eateries On Their Way

1️⃣ KŌRI Bakery & Dessert - Japanese Sweets Sweeten Orlando's Summer Scene

KŌRI Bakery & Dessert (Insta), a Japanese-inspired sweet spot, is set to open this summer at 725 N. Mills Avenue in Orlando. Replacing a former 7-Eleven site, KORI will offer kakigori, shokupan, and fancy iced drinks. Partnering with local KOS Coffee, they'll serve specialty teas and coffees alongside their unique desserts.

2️⃣ The Imperial Bar - Dining Destination's Fresh Park Ave. Address

The Imperial (Insta), departing 170 E. Morse Boulevard, will relocate to 136 S. Park Avenue in Winter Park this October. Owners Drew Weisner and John Washburn plan extensive renovations, including kitchen upgrades and a new live music stage. The venue will serve lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, aiming to open in time for the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival.

3️⃣ Palm Beach Meats - SoDo's Shrine to Premium Wagyu

Palm Beach Meats (Insta), opening this fall in Orlando's SoDo district, will offer premium Japanese wagyu, including rare Kobe beef. Owners Eric and Meghan San Pedro will serve high-end cuts like Matsusaka, Ōmi, and Takamori in retail, wholesale, and restaurant settings. The menu will feature wagyu burgers, steaks, and sandwiches, alongside special events showcasing global beef varieties.

#ORLANDOSIGNAL 📸

Early morning MOOOOOOOS

📷 via @orlandosignal |📍Laureate Park

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FOODIE FIND, FORK YEAH! 🤩
Canvas Restaurant & Market

📍13615 Sachs Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32827, or map to this location, right here.

Lake Nona's gem, Canvas (Insta), has unveiled a spectacular new menu. This lakefront restaurant, known for its talented chefs and stunning views, now offers an even more tantalizing array of new American dishes.

Highlights include the iconic pot pie with its flaky, buttery crust, and a decadently cheesy mac and cheese. The bacon-wrapped filet, cooked to perfection, steals the show alongside zesty buffalo wings and a summery ricotta spread. Pasta lovers will adore the vodka penne.

For a sweet finale, the Nutella donuts and bread pudding are irresistible. With its trendy market vibe and waterfront coffee café, Canvas isn't just a meal—it's an experience.

This reimagined menu cements Canvas as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

MORE PULP! 😎
Weekday things to check out

>  M'ama Napoli, a new bakery & deli that opened last Tuesday in Winter Park, offering pastries, coffee, pizzas, and an authentic taste of Italy. (More info)

>  Tomorrow (Tuesday), Korean-Canadian crooner Slchld is set to seduce Orlando with his velvety R&B vibes. Far from K-pop's glitz, this rising star offers a masterclass in soulful serenades. Experience the silk-voiced sensation Tuesday, July 9, at The Social. (More info)

>  Tomorrow (Tuesday) join V Ali & Maeghan Landa from the Art & History Museum of Maitland for this creative art class using glow in the dark paint. (More info)

> Explore career opportunities at the CFEC Job Fair in Orlando this Wednesday. Connect with nearly 100 Central Florida companies from 12-4 pm at the Central Florida Fairgrounds Expo Building, 4603 W. Colonial Drive. (More info)

> This Wednesday, check out Def Leppard, Journey, and special guest Cheap Trick will combine timeless classics and chart-topping hits, celebrating the enduring spirit of rock ‘n’ roll at Camping World Stadium. (More info)

> This Thursday, take the kids (or grand-kids) to Popcorn Flicks in the Park: THE LEGO MOVIE, part of the Popcorn Flicks in the Park series, which takes place in Central Park, Winter Park once a month is FREE and open to the public! (More info)

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

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal