Orlando's Slumbering Giantess

Good morning, Orlando! It looks like ya’ll really love chocolate! Tons of votes came through on last Thursday’s poll where I asked what was THE BEST type of chocolate. 64.3% of you chose DARK CHOCOCOLATE. Thankfully, no one chose “I don’t like chocolate.” 😅

 In today’s issue: 👇

• Lake Lucerne's tale

• Orlando's slumbering giantess

• A civic love story

• ….and much more, including tons o’ July 4th celebrations everywhere

🛑 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 Oxen to Overpasses: Lake Lucerne's Tale

Before Orlando was Orlando, Lake Lucerne silently shaped history. In 1855, James P. Hughey arrived from Georgia, claiming 160 acres west of the lake. His covered wagon, accompanied by oxen, stopped beside "a small stream of clear water running into the lake coming from under a large oak tree," as historian Eve Bacon recounted.

For 20 years, Hughey's log cabin—now buried beneath I-4 and SR 408—welcomed travelers and anchored his cotton fields and orange groves. This humble beginning sparked a legacy that would define a city.

As Orlando grew, Lake Lucerne's shores became prime real estate. The 1880s saw the Lucerne Hotel rise, followed by the prestigious Dr. Phillips home. Today, 160+ years later, the lake bears little resemblance to its pioneer-era self. Its northern reaches vanish under SR 408, while Orange Avenue slices across its waters.

From Hughey's solitary homestead to the bustling metropolis of today, Lake Lucerne remains a liquid link to Orlando's past. Though modern skylines now reflect in its waters, it still whispers tales of dreamers who saw endless possibility in Florida's wilderness.

Lake Lucerne, once a beacon for pioneers, now stands as a testament to Orlando's evolution.

THE SQUEEZE 🍊
Hunger Crisis Grips Central Florida as Summer Heat Rises

Central Florida faces a mounting hunger crisis as Second Harvest Food Bank reports a startling surge in free meal searches on their food locator tool at the start of summer.

June saw a 43% increase compared to last year, while May's searches more than doubled. Over 13,900 searches were logged in just three weeks of June. Maureen Mickel of Second Harvest notes that food often becomes the first budget cut for struggling families.

The food bank now distributes 300,000 free meals daily, yet the need grows. One in five children risks going hungry this summer, a situation potentially worsened by new state policies.

Florida's recent law requiring training hours for SNAP applicants and the state's decision to opt out of $250 million in federal food aid compound the crisis.

As temperatures rise, so does the urgency to address this pressing issue.

Orlando's Slumbering Giantess

In Orlando's Lake Eola Park, a colossal figure emerges from the earth—"The Muse of Discovery," a 40-foot limestone masterpiece by Kentucky artist Meg White.

Commissioned in 2013 and installed in 2014, this enigmatic sculpture comprises five separate pieces, creating the illusion of a giantess half-submerged in grass.

White's creation, inspired by "The Awaking Muse" and Native American mounds, invites visitors to "sit in the hand of the Muse and discover your hidden potential." Initially adorned with Asiatic Jasmine, the sculpture's popularity led to its replacement with AstroTurf. White detailed some of the process on her blog.

The Muse's journey from quarry to park involved power tools, cranes, and trucks, transforming raw stone into an interactive artwork that continues to captivate and inspire, whispering secrets of hidden potential to all who encounter it.

Matchmaking for Progress: Orlando's Civic Love Story

For three decades, Orlando's Mayor's Matching Grant program has been a catalyst for community transformation. Julie Tindall, community outreach manager for the Office of Community Affairs, orchestrates this civic symphony, guiding organizations through the grant process.

The program, offering $5,000 grants to up to ten recipients biannually, extends beyond neighborhood associations to include nonprofits and schools. Grantees match funds through various means, fostering a culture of collaboration.

With 12 months to complete projects, the City remains a steadfast partner throughout. This initiative isn't merely about distributing funds; it's about cultivating partnerships and shared pride in community enhancement.

As Orlando evolves, this program stands as a testament to the power of grassroots change, painting the city's landscape with strokes of local ingenuity.

Pipeline to Progress: Eatonville's Water Windfall

Eatonville, a historic Orlando area town, is set to quench its long-standing water woes with a $34 million grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

For years, residents like Vera King have grappled with frequent water main breaks and service interruptions, resorting to bottled water. Despite past violations in monitoring and reporting, the DEP assures the water is safe to drink.

The grant will fund a comprehensive overhaul of the aging infrastructure, starting with water mains along East Kennedy Boulevard. Mayor Angie Gardner hails this as a game-changer, compressing a decade-long improvement plan into immediate action.

As Eatonville prepares for this watershed moment, the community's resilient spirit shines through, eagerly anticipating the day when clean, reliable water flows freely through their taps.

TASTY NEWS 🧑‍🍳
Orlando Eateries On Their Way

1️⃣ Acropolis Greek Taverna - Downtown's Greek Revival: Plates and Passion

Tampa's Acropolis Greek Taverna (Insta) is set to spice up Orlando's dining scene, taking over the former DoveCote space downtown. Opening this fall, it promises modern Greek cuisine, lively entertainment, and free parking. Part of a broader Mediterranean trend, Acropolis plans 4-5 locations citywide, joining other Greek eateries in Orlando's culinary renaissance.

2️⃣ Donut'ste Donuts - Vegan Delights Roll into Winter Park

Vegan sensation Donut'ste Donuts (Insta), run by Chef Shalom Buchanan and Chef Victoria White, is relocating from Lake Mary to 1996 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park. The move expands their space and menu, adding craft coffees to complement their popular plant-based treats. Opening later this year, it promises to satisfy growing demand.

3️⃣ The Construction Zone - “Sky-High” Dining

The Construction Zone, a 162-seat themed restaurant opening in late July at 3236 Rolling Oaks Blvd, Kissimmee, simulates dining on a skyscraper's 86th floor. Co-owners Middleton Dand and Tracy Miller-Sudborough promise an immersive experience with construction-inspired decor, menu, and activities for all ages, including flatbreads, burgers, and craft cocktails.

#ORLANDOSIGNAL 📸

Annual Baldwin Park Independence Bash

🔥 Save the date for the annual Independence Bash celebration in Baldwin Park taking place on July 3rd from 6-pm to 10pm with food trucks and fun for the whole family. Booming fireworks starts at 9:15pm!

📷 via @visitbaldwinpark |📍New Broad St., Baldwin Park

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FOODIE FIND, FORK YEAH! 🤩
Izzi Korean Kitchen - “Seoul” Food

📍1700 West Sandlake Rd D124, Orlando, Florida 32809, or map to this location, right here.

Near Florida Mall, Izzi Korean Kitchen (Insta) is a culinary gem blending tradition with flair.

This charming spot, adorned with Squid Game-inspired decor, offers "Korean Seoul food" - a delightful fusion of time-honored recipes and modern twists.

The extensive menu features everything from crispy k dogs to savory bulgogi burgers, alongside classics like tteok, musubi, and Korean chicken wings. Generous portions and wallet-friendly prices make izzi an ideal lunch destination. Don't miss the standout k dog and bulgogi burger - they perfectly capture Izzi's essence.

Whether you're a Korean cuisine enthusiast or a curious foodie, Izzi promises an unforgettable journey through flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Seoul.

MORE PULP! 😎
Weekday things to check out

> On Wednesday, check out the monthly (first Wednesday of the month) Orlando Foodie Fest at O-Town Provisions at 4128 Roush Ave from 5-9 p.m. (More info)

> The City of Ocoee has announced that its Parks and Recreation Department will host a Fourth of July block party and car show on Thursday, July 4. Festivities begin at 10 a.m. and go until 2 p.m. at Bill Breeze Park, 125 North Lakeshore Drive.

> The City of Winter Park will host its 29th annual 4th of July Celebration on Thursday, July 4, from 9 to 11 a.m., in Central Park’s West Meadow. (More info)

> The City of Winter Garden presents Party in the Park, one of the best fireworks shows in Central Florida! Party in the Park is a FREE event for the community. The SPECTACULAR fireworks display is over Lake Apopka and preshow entertainment includes live music, family activities, and more for all ages. (More info)

> 4th of July Sunset and Fireworks Paddle at the Lake Ivanhoe Boat Ramp. Watch downtown Orlando's awesome fireworks show while paddling on Lake Ivanhoe. Start at 7:00pm from the boat ramp, watch the sunset, and stay on the water to see the fireworks at 9:15pm. Beginner and kid-friendly. (More info)

> Kick off your summer in style and show your patriotism at the Avalon Park Fourth of July Festival! Enjoy a variety of activities and more, including a bike parade and an apple pie bake-off. Plus, there will be plenty of food trucks and other vendors. Round out your night with an amazing fireworks show at 9 pm! (More info)

> On Thursday, check out the Enzian's BBQ Bash at the Enzian Theater for a FREE screening of Jaws and a cookout on the lawn! Please bring your own blankets, chairs, or other seating arrangements for this event. The film will begin at sundown. (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