Orlando Dessert Festival

Good morning, Orlando! One thing on today’s agenda is talking about the Orlando Dessert Festival. If you see someone passed out in the bushes from a sugar coma, that’s me! Leave a post-it note on my forehead and say hi.

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

• 300,000 big ones

• Orlando Dessert Festival

• Flying Horse Editions

• + 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 ⏲️
When Hope Meets Generosity: SALT Outreach's Unexpected Salvation

In Orlando, a tale of unexpected generosity unfolded as SALT Outreach, a homeless services nonprofit, faced a financial crisis.

With a $600,000 reduction in government funding threatening essential services, Executive Director Eric Camarillo and his team prayed for a miracle. Their prayers were answered when the Big Nova Foundation stepped in and donated 300,000 big ones, ensuring SALT's vital services would continue through summer.

Sarah Asma of Big Nova emphasized the importance of providing basic dignity to all. Despite this lifeline, SALT aims to raise an additional $200,000 to secure its future.

This story of resilience and community spirit serves as a powerful reminder of how unexpected kindness can transform lives, leaving Orlando to wonder what other miracles might be waiting for those who dare to hope.

From Blue Ribbons to Breakthroughs: The More Leg Story

Former equestrian prodigy Shelby Combs has transformed her competitive legacy into a mission of healing. At 24, she runs More Leg LLC, an equine therapy program near Winter Garden.

Here, Combs and her horses – Sullivan, Whiskey, Story, and Sky – work magic with special needs clients. The program's impact shines through stories like Julia Tait's, a once-nonverbal child who found her voice atop therapy horse Whiskey.

Combs designs 12-week programs, fostering independence and progress through equine interaction. The name "More Leg" echoes a formative moment from Combs' show days, aptly capturing the program's spirit of pushing beyond limits.

As sunset paints the paddocks, it's clear Combs has discovered a new kind of victory – one measured in transformative milestones and newfound confidence.

Orange County's Grassroots Beautification Initiative, $460K Neighborhood Grant Program

Orange County is sparking a neighborhood transformation with its $460,000 grant program for beautification and sustainability.

Rose-Nancy Joseph, senior program manager, leads a proactive team that's knocking on doors to spread the word about these opportunities.

They're guiding communities through the process, transforming visions into reality. Last year's projects ranged from solar-powered community center lighting to refreshed neighborhood signage.

The program's flexibility covers everything from landscaping to playground upgrades. As the October 10 deadline approaches, Joseph's team is intensifying efforts to ensure no neighborhood misses out. (psst, you can apply here)

In Orange County, community development isn't just about distributing funds—it's about actively cultivating involvement and action.

WEEKEND SPOT HIGHLIGHT 🔦
2024 Orlando Dessert Festival (yes, please!)

📍914 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804. Map to this location.

🕐 Sunday, July 28th, 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m

This Sunday, July 28th, Orlando transforms into a sugar-lover's paradise from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The 2024 Orlando Dessert Festival promises a decadent afternoon featuring over 100 sweet vendors, each offering unique confectionery delights. From artisanal chocolates to avant-garde dessert creations, every turn presents a new taste adventure.

But it's not just about indulgence—live music sets the mood while games and raffles add excitement.

Food trucks provide savory options, balancing out the sweetness. Families will appreciate the dedicated Kid Zone, ensuring fun for all ages.

Don't miss this opportunity to satisfy your sweet tooth and experience a true celebration of all things sugary in the heart of Orlando.

TOP 3 4 FUN RECS FOR THE WEEKEND 🍊
Tacos and Tequila

📍Cheyenne Saloon and Church Street. 120 W Church St. Map to this location.

🕐 Saturday, July 27th, 12 p.m.

Orlando's Tacos and Tequila Festival is back, promising a day of culinary delight. This one-day extravaganza offers unlimited taco sampling from Central Florida's finest, alongside 30+ premium tequilas and endless beer.

Attendees become food critics, voting for the best tacos among competing vendors. Live entertainment and games add to the festive atmosphere. General Admission tickets are all-inclusive, granting entry to this flavorful fiesta.

Your pass unlocks unlimited taco tasting, bottomless tequila sampling, beer, and no additional cost access to all activities.

It's more than just a food festival - it's Orlando's ultimate taco showdown and tequila celebration.

International Vegan Food Festival

📍Wall Street Plaza. 25 Wall Street Orlando, FL 32801. Map to this location.

🕐 Saturday, July 27th, 2:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Prepare for a flavor revolution at Orlando's International Vegan Food Festival!

On Saturday, 25 Wall Street transforms into a plant-based paradise. Embark on a global culinary journey through a maze of vegan stalls, where innovative chefs redefine food itself.

Savor melty cashew cheese pizzas, exotic salads, and sinfully delicious desserts.

Discover how ancient grains are shaping modern nutrition and how vegetables become edible art.

Whether you're vegan-curious or a seasoned plant-eater, this festival promises to challenge your taste buds and expand your horizons.

Collective Corner Local Pop-Up Market

📍The Wellborn. 211 N Lucerne Cir E, Orlando, Florida 32801. Map to this location.

🕐 Sunday, July 28th, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Discover Orlando's hidden gem at the Collective Corner Local Pop-Up Market at The Wellborn's (Insta) award-winning courtyard.

From 11 am, this beloved gathering transforms the city's best bar patio into a treasure trove of local talent.

Browse dazzling jewelry, vintage fashion, and whimsical trinkets while supporting small businesses with big dreams. As melodies from live musicians fill the air, let The Wellborn's renowned brunch and cocktails tempt your taste buds.

Here, every purchase tells a story, every bite is an adventure, and every moment celebrates Orlando's vibrant spirit.

Flying Horse Editions Open Studio Event

📍Flying Horse Editions Studios. 380 W Amelia St, Orlando, FL 32801. Map to this location.

🕐 Sunday, July 27th, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

In Parramore's Creative Village, Flying Horse Editions, a collaborative printmaking press with a 30-year legacy, invites you to its Open Studio on Saturday, July 27th.

Step into a world where internationally acclaimed artists and local printmakers join forces to create masterpieces. This rare glimpse behind the scenes offers more than just a tour—it's your chance to own a piece of artistic history.

Explore the extensive print archives, each piece whispering tales of creativity and collaboration.

As a special treat, visitors will enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on purchases made that day.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistic process and perhaps find the perfect addition to your collection.

MORE WEEKEND HAPPENINGS 🎭 🥁

Friday:

Hot Freaks | 6 p.m. | Downtown | $18 (more info)

Most Valuable Prospects VII | 6 p.m. | I-Drive/Universal | $40-$100 (more info)

Art Opening: A Bright Light from the Embers | 6:30-9 p.m. | Winter Park Area | No cost (more info)

Endoxa Booking Presents: Anvil and More | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $20 (more info)

Lyrical Miracle | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $10 (more info)

Endoxa Booking Presents: Anvil and More | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $20 (more info)

Leagues Cup Group Stage - Orlando City SC v CF Montréal | 8 p.m. | Downtown | $15-$200 (more info)

Mirror Parts with Sofia Camille, Stellus, and Weather Boys | 8 p.m. | Mills 50 | $15 (more info)

Saturday:

Sober Betties - July Ticketed Tea Party | 12 p.m. | Mills 50 | $40 (more info)

Amp Your Life Now Summit | 8:30 a.m. | Downtown | $159.99-$259.99 (more info)

The Glorified Beading Meet Up | 6 p.m. | Audubon Park | $45 (more info)

Punk show at Lous!! | 8 p.m. | Mills 50 | $10 (more info)

NWSL x LIGAMXF Summer Cup | 7 p.m. | Downtown | $13-$60 (more info)

Javier Santiago | 7 & 9 p.m. | Downtown | $65-$125 (more info)

Ongaku Overdrive Presents: Warriors of Light II feat. Knight of the Round, Descendants of Erdrick, and The Limit Breakers | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $15-$24 (more info)

Virginity Album Release Party | 7 p.m. | Mills 50 | $10-$15 (more info)

Skinny Mcgee and the Handshakes Record Release Party | 7 p.m. | Mills 50 | No cost (more info)

Volveré a Bailar Por Ti; Tusuy the Spirit of Dance | 8 p.m. | Downtown | $25-$55 (more info)

Outvilla Sessions at BYNX Orlando | 8 p.m. | Downtown | $8 (more info)

Monday the Disability Musical | 8 p.m. | Downtown | $35-$50 (more info)

Sunday:

Special Program: 8 ½ | 11 a.m. | Winter Park Area | $11 (more info)

Jake Hill | 6:30 p.m. | Downtown | $29.50 (more info)

Living Dead Girl "The Infectious" Tour with F.I.L.T.H. and Dancing With Ghosts | 7 p.m. | Winter Park Area | $15 (more info)

Contemporary Dance Choreography Festival | 7:30 p.m. | Central | $20 (more info)

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We’ll see you on Monday.

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal