Rollin' Heros

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Good morning, Orlando. This is the Orlando Signal - your daily dose of local news that's as refreshing as getting splashed during a paddle-board adventure on Lake Ivanhoe.

 In today’s issue: 👇

• Lake Eola’s swan history

• Tuition-free trade school

• Rollin Heros

• ….and much more

Did someone forward this email to you? If so, subscribe here.

🛑 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 ⏪
From Tyrant to Icon: The Unexpected Tale of Orlando's Swans

In last Thursdays issue, we told you how City Commissioner Patty Sheehan proposed a $19,500 investment for six new swans - mated pairs of Australian Black, Trumpeter, and Whooper breeds, but here's some Lake Eola swan history.

In 1910, Orlando's love affair with swans began when residents convinced the city council to place two on Lake Eola. Simultaneously, Charles Lord, an English transplant, brought swans to nearby Lake Lucerne, spending a princely $95.03 on the birds.

Among Lord's flock was Billy, a white swan whose antics became legendary. This feathered terror chased dogs, cars, and children, even drowning his mate Sally. Dubbed "The Tyrant of Lake Lucerne," Billy's two-decade reign captivated Orlando's imagination.

Billy's notoriety grew with age. In 1932, newspapers declared him 75 years old and on death's door, only to report his miraculous recovery the next day. When Billy finally passed in 1933, Orlando wasn't ready to let go. The bird was taxidermied, displayed in a store window, then the courthouse, and now rests in the Orange County Regional History Center.

Billy's legacy lives on. His aggressive behavior led to some swans relocating to Lake Eola, while his prolific breeding populated both lakes. Today, Orlando's swan love continues.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER
Lunch & Learn – Orlando Sports Stadium: Rebels, Wrestlers, and Rock ’n’ Rollers

Uncover the electrifying history of the Orlando Sports Stadium in the Orange County Regional History Center’s upcoming Lunch & Learn!

On Friday, September 6, 2024, from noon to 1 p.m., journey back to this legendary venue on Econlockhatchee Trail. Explore owner Pete Ashlock's vision, the stadium's wrestling legacy with Eddie Graham, and musical performances by icons like Elvis Presley, Louis Armstrong, and Led Zeppelin.

Your guide? Jeremy Hileman, assistant curator of collections at Orange County Regional History Center, FSU alum, and previously served as the One Orlando registrar.

Join in-person or online for this thrilling dive into Central Florida's past.

🛑 Don't forget to order lunch by 9 a.m. on September 5th, then get ready to rock, wrestle, and rebel amid the aura of Orlando's most iconic arena!

THE SQUEEZE 🍊
BuildStrong Academy: Constructing Careers Beyond College

As traditional colleges prepared for fall semesters, BuildStrong Academy of Orlando offers an alternative path.

This tuition-free trade school provides construction career training amidst waning confidence in higher education. A recent Gallup poll shows 32% of Americans have little faith in college education, while a Pew study finds only one in four believe a degree is necessary for a well-paying job.

Former college students like Kam Dabs and Amanda McKenzie have found new direction at BuildStrong, pursuing careers as electricians and contractors.

The academy boasts high job placement rates, with graduates like Dabs expecting to earn $53,000 in their first year.

As the construction industry booms, BuildStrong and similar institutions are filling a crucial gap, redefining higher education one trade at a time.

Orange County's Bold Gamble on Medical Debt Relief

In a ground-breaking move, Orange County has officially approved an ambitious plan to erase $424 million in medical debt for over 150,000 residents.

The county commission narrowly approved leveraging $4.5 million of unused federal pandemic relief funds, partnering with nonprofit Undue Medical Debt to execute this financial rescue mission. Social workers have witnessed families drowning in medical bills, their economic mobility shattered by unexpected health crises.

The plan's elegance lies in its simplicity: identifying eligible residents and purchasing their debt for pennies on the dollar. Despite concerns about homelessness and housing, supporters argue this investment offers a lifeline to those on the brink of financial ruin.

As Orange County embarks on this bold experiment, it joins a quiet revolution in healthcare finance, affirming that no one should choose between health and financial stability.

How A Gift For Teaching Supports Orlando Educators

In Orlando, an unassuming warehouse harbors a hidden treasure for educators: A Gift For Teaching.

Founded in 1998 by Gary Landwith, this free “teacher supply store” has become a lifeline for Orange County's dedicated professionals. Jane Thompson, the organization's CEO, notes the shocking reality of teachers' out-of-pocket expenses for classroom supplies.

In 2023, they served 40% of eligible teachers, distributing $11 million worth of supplies. The store transforms community donations and corporate surplus into educational gold, offering everything from pencils to art supplies.

Their innovative programs, including mobile options, ensure accessibility for busy educators.

While recent salary increases help, Thompson argues it's not enough in a state ranking low in teacher pay. As Central Florida grows, so does the need for this beacon of hope. Want to help and donate?

How Visit Orlando's Magical Dining Turns Meals into Miracles

Also in last Thursday’s issue, we shared Visit Orlando's Magical Dining’s 19th annual launch, running August 16th to September 30th, serves up more than gourmet experiences. This culinary event has raised $2.5 million since 2009, channeling $1-$2 per meal to local charities.

Last year's $269,272 enabled The Lifeboat Project to renovate a safe house for human trafficking survivors, hire a full-time case manager, and purchase vital transportation.

The funds transformed lives like Raychelle Green's, whose daughter survived trafficking.

Other beneficiaries include Wake Up Mentoring, which used its grant for college tours, resulting in scholarships for at-risk youth.

This year's proceeds will support The Mustard Seed of Central Florida's furniture and clothing banks.

As diners indulge in prix-fixe menus at top restaurants, they're simultaneously investing in community transformation, one meal at a time.

TASTY NEWS 🧑‍🍳
Orlando Eateries On Their Way

1️⃣ The Neighbors - Culinary Hub Evolves, New Flavors Emerge

East End Market in Audubon Park is evolving. Domu Lab's pop-up space closes August 31st, replaced by The Neighbors (Insta) new restaurant coming soon. Chef Leah Cordova will offer healthy, innovative dishes, guided by consultant Matt Hinckley. Meanwhile, Domu founder Sonny Nguyen plans two new concepts for late 2024. The market continues to house diverse local merchants.

2️⃣ The Winery and Tasting Room by Brewlando - Craft Oasis Blooms at Icon Park

Icon Park's latest addition, The Winery and Tasting Room by Brewlando (Insta), is set to uncork this summer. Occupying the former Istanbul Lounge's 1,400-square-foot space, it promises a unique blend of experiences for wine and cider enthusiasts. Beer lovers won't be left out, with seven exclusive Brewlando craft brews on tap, cementing its status as a must-visit destination.

3️⃣ Turci Pasta - Handcrafted Pasta Haven Expands to Maitland

Turci Pasta (Insta), College Park's handmade pasta haven, is expanding its culinary footprint this fall. The beloved eatery will open its second location in Maitland City Centre, taking over the former MidiCi Neapolitan Pizza space. This move brings Turci's authentic Italian flavors to a new community, promising a fresh pasta paradise for Maitland residents and visitors alike.

#ORLANDOSIGNAL 📸

Bok Tower Gardens, Tower

📷 via @photogeorgealfonso |📍Lake Wales

Tag @orlandosignal to get your photo featured in the newsletter!

FOODIE FIND, FORK YEAH! 🤩
Rollin Heros

📍18 N Dollins Ave, Orlando, FL 32805, or map to this location.

A slice of NYC recently landed in Orlando with the arrival of Rolling Heros (Insta), a sandwich shop that's redefining late-night bites. This Big Apple transplant serves up an impressive array of handheld delights, from classic chopped cheese to Philly cheesesteaks and chicken Parmesan.

But what truly sets Rolling Heros apart is its commitment to night owls, staying open until 2 AM+, depending on the day.

Whether you're craving a post-party snack or a comforting meal after a late shift, this newcomer promises to satisfy with its heroic sandwiches, any time of day or night.

MORE PULP! 😎
Weekday things to check out

> Tomorrow (Tuesday), check out Diversitastic! Dining: Egypt with a chance to immerse yourself into the exploration of tastes, sights, sounds and mindsets of another part of the world with “The Dough Show.” (eat up!)

> Also on Tuesday, catch Bubbles & Blooms: Create Your Own Succulent Arrangement Workshop at the Grape & Grain Wine Bar. Pamela Johancsik of Bomb Blooms will be guiding you through the process of creating your own living work of art. (deets)

> On Wednesday, the outstanding Mr. Sahid Pabon takes to the cabaret stage at The Winter Park Playhouse to premiere his new solo cabaret Plot Twist in the theatre's popular Spotlight Cabaret Series. (info)

> On Thursday, check out “Almost ABBA” at the Wharf at Sunset Walk! Performing all of the greatest hits of multiplatinum recording artists ABBA including: “Take a Chance on Me,” “Fernando,” “Waterloo,” “Knowing Me Knowing You,” and of course, the No. 1 anthem, “Dancing Queen.” (get down)

> Also on Thursday, join YAF and The Milk District Design Committee to envision the future at the The Milk District Design Charrette 2024! The event will begin with a kickoff session on Thursday evening to introduce the design projects and assign teams. (get inspired)

> On Friday, check out gARTening Series: Pressed Petal Poetry: The Art of Floral Preservation. In this class, you will make your own “unique” pressed flower art that you can take home to display with pride. (make art)

👋 Help Me Improve The Orlando Signal

THANKS!

Interested in reaching smart readers like you for your business? To become an Orlando Signal ad partner, start a conversation here.

🆕 Put on an event? Tell me about it right here.

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

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal