Oviedo Lights

PRESENTED BY

Good morning, Orlando. Are ya’ll surviving tropical storm Debby? Doesn’t seem too bad, eh? I know the plants out front are enjoying the spritz.

 In today’s issue: 👇

• “Oviedo Lights”

• OneBlood’s ransomware attack

• Amish ice cream 🍦

• ….and much more

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🛑 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. 🐈 😻

Let’s dive in!

- Philip

ORLANDO REWIND ⏪
Decoding the “Oviedo Lights” Phenomenon

The Oviedo Lights, a legendary phenomenon on Snow Hill Road in Seminole County, Florida, have intrigued locals for decades. As midnight approaches, particularly on winter nights, witnesses report a brilliant blue orb racing towards the Econlockhatchee River bridge, vanishing silently upon arrival.

First documented in the 1960s, the legend spawned numerous origin tales, from lost Cub Scouts to ill-fated lovers. Despite investigations by journalists and paranormal enthusiasts, the mystery endures, defying rational explanations like swamp gas or youthful imagination.

Amidst the folklore, one tragic event stands out. On July 16, 1963, 17-year-old Norbert Georg Hyman died when struck by a car driven by his friend, Richard Eric Pearson, after a night of fireworks near the infamous bridge.

Today, Hyman's grave in Oviedo Cemetery bears silent witness to the area's darker history. Some speculate his untimely death birthed the ghostly lights, while others dismiss the entire phenomenon as mere fabrication.

The Oviedo Lights remain an enigma, challenging our understanding of the natural world and our appetite for the unexplained.

(Learn more about the Oviedo Lights from Jason Byrne, right here.)

PRESENTED BY THE ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER
Gilded Age Hotels at Florida’s Mineral Springs

Embark on a captivating journey to Florida's Gilded Age with author Rick Kilby on Thursday, August 15, 2024, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Orange County Regional History Center.

Discover the opulent mineral spring resorts that once drew America's elite to "take the waters." Through rare images, Kilby unveils how these vanished retreats shaped Florida's economy and tourism, and how these natural wonders were transformed into restorative havens for the emerging upper class.

The Orlando-based author, whose book "Florida's Healing Waters" won multiple awards, will transport you to a time when wild paradise met luxury.

This free Third Thursday event promises a glimpse into a forgotten era of health-seeking adventure. Plus, don't miss the chance to purchase Kilby's book and own a piece of this fascinating history.

THE SQUEEZE 🍊
Feeding Minds: Orange County's Bold Step in Student Nutrition

Orange County Public Schools is revolutionizing student nutrition by extending free meals to all students for the 2024-25 year.

This Community Eligibility Provision initiative eliminates paperwork for most families, though new schools Atwater Bay Elementary, Luminary Middle, and Innovation High require applications.

Mark Watson, OCPS Food and Nutrition Services senior director, emphasizes the program's goal of nourishing every child for academic success. Benefits include universal access to balanced meals, increased participation, reduced stigma, and improved administrative efficiency.

By removing financial barriers and creating an inclusive environment, this program not only feeds bodies, but nurtures minds.

Orange County sets a powerful example, proving that education as an equalizer begins with ensuring no student faces the school day on an empty stomach.

Code Red as Orlando's Blood Center Fights Invisible Foe

In the heart of Florida, OneBlood faces a digital crisis as a ransomware attack strikes its systems. The Orlando-based nonprofit blood center stands resilient, with Susan Forbes, their senior VP, spearheading a comprehensive response.

As cyber specialists and government agencies join forces, OneBlood's vital mission continues, reverting to manual processes to ensure uninterrupted blood services. The attack's effects spread to over 250 hospitals across multiple states, triggering critical shortage protocols.

Forbes emphasizes the urgency of blood donations, reminding the public of their crucial role. Amid this unseen threat, a powerful narrative of unity unfolds.

From tireless experts to everyday heroes donating blood, the community rallies, proving that in times of crisis, the human spirit remains undefeated, ready to give the gift of life.

A Chef's Second Act in Sustainable Farming at 4Roots

In Orlando's Packing District, a food revolution blossoms at 4Roots Farm.

Dennis Abney, a veteran chef with 45 years of experience, now nurtures crops instead of crafting dishes. This visionary project, spearheaded by 4Rivers restaurant founder John Rivers, aims to revolutionize Central Florida's approach to food sustainability. I attended a breakfast hosted by 4Roots in mid-July and got to see and hear how this venture is progressing, and it’s highly impressive.

Josh Taylor, the farm's head agronomist, envisions it as Orlando's agricultural nerve center—a living science museum dedicated to farming.

Breaking ground in 2021, the farm is evolving into an immersive wonderland with classrooms, gardens, greenhouses, event spaces, and a farm-to-table restaurant.

For Abney and fellow volunteers, it's a legacy in the making.

Maitland Social Brings Together Food, Fitness, and Fun

Maitland's landscape is evolving with the arrival of Maitland Social at 360 E. Horatio Ave.

This Garber Development hotspot unites local favorites: Pizza Bruno's third location, showcasing Bruno Zacchini's dough wizardry; Foxtail Coffee Co.'s 61st Florida outpost, pouring ethically sourced, locally roasted brews; and Wave Sushi's second venue, famed for viral Asian fusion creations.

The excitement builds with Thrive Cocktail Lounge set to open in months. Alongside Urban Body Works fitness center, Maitland Social isn't just satisfying taste buds—it's fostering community connections.

This innovative hub promises to redefine the area, blending flavors and friendships in a single, vibrant space.

TASTY NEWS 🧑‍🍳
Orlando Eateries On Their Way

1️⃣ Agave Bandido - Spicy Fiesta Heads to Horizon West

Agave Bandido (Insta), a South Florida-inspired Mexican restaurant and tequila bar, is coming to Hamlin in Horizon West. Known for craft cocktails, fajitas, tacos, and more, it offers dining, catering, and delivery. With locations in Pembroke Pines and Sarasota, this new spot next to Ford's Garage awaits an opening date.

2️⃣ Violet's Ice Cream - Amish Scoops Sweeping Orlando

The Amish-inspired (Insta) brainchild of Jason Turner, is churning up a storm across Orlando. From its Oviedo origins, this creamy phenomenon is set to enchant Orlando's Chickasaw Trail and Winter Park's Orlando Ave. Violet's blends tradition and modernity in every scoop.

3️⃣ Rion’s Ocean Room - Pacific Flavors Surge into Audubon Park

East End Market's is about to explode with flavor (even more) as Sonny Nguyen, the mastermind behind Domu, introduces Rion's Ocean Room (Insta) in October/November, and Gyukatsu Rose (Insta) in late 2024-early 2025. From Hawaiian-style poke to sizzling wagyu cutlets, these concepts promise to transform the former Skyebird space into a foodie journey across the Pacific. Aloha meets arigato in Audubon Park!

#ORLANDOSIGNAL 📸

Orange Ave. and Church St., circa 1957

📷 via @floridamemory |📍Downtown

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FOODIE FIND, FORK YEAH! 🤩
Anna’s Polish Restaurant

📍3586 Aloma Ave Winter Park, FL 32792, or map to this location.

In Winter Park, Anna's Polish Restaurant is a genuine revelation.

Their homemade pierogies are a life-altering experience that'll have you plotting return visits. The cabbage rolls are perfection wrapped in tender leaves. And the pork schnitzel is golden-brown brilliance that would make Vienna proud.

But let's not overlook the supporting cast. The mashed potatoes redefine comfort food, while the scratch-made applesauce – yes, applesauce – is an unexpected star.

Have you ventured into this Polish paradise yet?

MORE PULP! 😎
Weekday things to check out

> Tonight through Wednesday, the Enzian is celebrating the 70th anniversary of Seven Samurai with a special 4K screening. (info)

> Tomorrow (Tuesday), get ready for an epic day of delicious eats, live tunes, and golf fun at the Rollin' Food Truck Block Party at Drive Shack Lake Nona from 6:30-9:30 p.m.! (details)

> Also on Tuesday, with a five-piece band and a chance for audience song requests, Nik & Reema’s Judson’s Live show ensures everyone leaves with a smile and the idea that we have more in common than we ever thought possible. (check it out)

> On Tuesday again, experience the journey through Motown with the Magic of Motown at the Plaza Love at 7:30 p.m. (deets)

> On Wednesday afternoon, at Sip & Shop at the Commons Co-Op, enjoy a complimentary mocktail while you browse from more than 30 local vendors selling hand-made, specially crafted self-care items, gift baskets, back to school necessities, essential oils, plants, produce, honey, and more in Winter park. (go sip & shop)

> On Thursday, come enjoy a night of good vibes, wine, and summertime madness. Crisp chillable summer wines with Haunah from European Cellars at 6:30 p.m. at the Infinite Summer Wine Tasting at the Swirley Wine Bar. (check it out)

> Also on Thursday, check out the Book Signing Event: ‘Empty Plates'. Written by Dave Krepcho who served as Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida President and CEO for 17 years, “Empty Plates: The Evolution of Hunger Relief” documents the history of hunger relief efforts while inspiring new solutions. (get out there)

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

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal