Secret School, Sinister Forces

Good morning, Orlando! Yesterday was my third trip to AJ Chocolate House in a week. Is there a concern here? 😍

 In today’s issue: 👇

• WP’s angular brick structure

• Secret School, Sinister Forces

• Yucatán-Asian Fusion

• ….and much more

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Let’s dive in!

- Philip

ORLANDO REWIND ⏪
45 Years in the Making, The Evolution of a Civic Icon

For nearly half a century, the angular brick structure at 460 E New England Avenue has been a distinctive presence in Winter Park. Built in 1979 and expanded in 1995, this three-story former library has sat vacant since December 2021, when its modern replacement opened on Morse Boulevard.

After multiple failed redevelopment attempts, including a co-working space concept and the SOAR space and science museum proposal, the building's future seemed uncertain.

Now, a new chapter unfolds. Lifelong resident Theresa Smith-Levin and Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts' Chris Cortez have joined forces to revitalize this historic landmark.

Their proposal, recently approved by the City Commission in a 4-1 vote, will transform the space into a vibrant arts hub housing three nonprofits, including Smith-Levin's Central Florida Vocal Arts and Cortez's Blue Bamboo.

The building requires only minimal renovations to embark on its new role, addressing the city's desire for nonprofit workspace. For young artists like Lily Kramer and Prophesy Baker, CFVA has been transformative.

As this literary landmark prepares for its second act, it stands poised to craft a new narrative of community and creativity, finally ending its period of dormancy.

See an expanded version of this article published by our media partner, Winter Park City Lifestyle.

THE SQUEEZE 🍊
Fowl Play With Downtown Orlando's Inflatable Avian Invasion

Orlando's skyline is set for a whimsical transformation as colossal, neon-hued inflatable pigeons prepare to roost atop downtown buildings.

This avant-garde invasion, masterminded by the Creative City Project and backed by county funds, aims to revitalize the urban core and draw curious onlookers to local businesses.

City spokesperson Ashley Papagni views it as a tribute to pigeons' historical significance in human progress. Each inflatable colossus, stretching 21 feet long and soaring 16 feet high, will sport eye-catching hues from electric pink to vibrant purple.

These magnificent mutant birds are expected to make their debut within the week.

Secret School, Sinister Forces: Cousins' Novel Captivates Readers

Two teenage cousins, Astrid Feeny from Winter Park and Bronwyn Fitzgerald from Connecticut, have set the literary world ablaze with their spellbinding debut novel, "Gretchen Leary's School for Left-Handed Girls."

Published in early 2024, the book whisks readers away on 10-year-old Pippa Webster's journey to a secret boarding school for left-handed girls. What begins as an unwanted exile blossoms into a thrilling adventure as Pippa bonds with four spirited room-mates.

However, a sinister force looms, threatening their newfound sanctuary.

The cousins (both proud lefties), now 16 and 17, wove this suspenseful tale over four years, bridging the distance with video calls and Google Docs (← very savvy!).

Notably, in addition to Astrid’s parents, Bronwyn's parents were also raised in Winter Park, weaving a multi-generational thread into this story.

This novel is fun for all ages. So if you want to give these talented young ladies a virtual high-five, grab a copy on Amazon, with partial proceeds benefiting Best Buddies.

From Stamps to Sushi: Mills 50's Possible Post Office Makeover

Orlando's Mills 50 district braces for a culinary boost as physicians Patrick Dang and Thinh Nguyen unveil plans to transform the aging Colonialtown post office into a vibrant Asian food hall.

Hoping to replace the 70-year-old building at 611 N. Mills Ave. in 2025, pending approvals, the 9,000-square-foot marketplace aims to celebrate the area's rich foodie heritage.

Dang envisions a bustling hub where families and friends can explore diverse cuisines, drawing inspiration from popular spots like Lotte Market. The project faces zoning hurdles and competition from the upcoming Mills Market, spearheaded by restaurateurs Jimmy and Johnny Tung.

As Mills 50 continues to attract acclaimed eateries like James Beard finalist Kaya, this bold venture promises to further cement the district's status as Orlando's premier destination for Asian cuisine.

Inside Orlando's Interactive Soul Pop Experience

Orlando's Fringe ArtSpace hosts "Soul Pop," a revolutionary concert experience that transports audiences to an endless summer.

This three-hour musical odyssey, created by Sonflower Joy Music, blends pop and soul into an interactive spectacle. The event kicks off with a vibrant pre-show featuring local vendors, art, and cuisine. Once the music starts, attendees sing and dance to classics from Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, and more.

Weekly guest artists, including Raven Iman (Aug. 16-18) and Trumaine Lamar (Aug. 23-25), add fresh talent to the mix.

Part of Orlando Fringe's "The Collective" program, "Soul Pop" exemplifies artistic collaboration and growth. This all-ages show promises a journey into a realm brimming with pop, love, and an abundance of soul.

PLUS, tickets are super-affordable at just $10-$20 seat, depending on the show.

TASTY NEWS 🧑‍🍳
Orlando Eateries On Their Way

1️⃣ Island Vybz - Tropical Flavors Ignite Orlando's Palate

Island Vybz Fusion Grill (Insta), brainchild of Yvonne Guthrie, is set to ignite Orlando's culinary scene at 2601 S Orange Blossom Trl with an approaching opening date. This 95-seat Caribbean haven promises authentic flavors by day and lively vibes by night, with weekend DJs transforming dinner into a Caribbean fête. Orlando's taste buds are in for an island adventure.

2️⃣ Brooklyn Water Bagel - Big Apple Flavor Invades Lake Nona & Clermont

Brooklyn Water Bagel (Insta) expands in Central Florida, with franchisee Nicholas Tetrault opening two new locations. Lake Nona's shop, seating 45, opens mid-September. Clermont's location, featuring the brand's first drive-thru and seating 30, follows in mid-October. Using "Brooklynized" water, they'll serve authentic New York-style bagels. Tetrault plans four more future locations.

3️⃣ June - Yucatán-Asian Fusion Ignites Thornton Park

Team Market Group will transform Graffiti Junktion's old Thornton Park space into "June," opening December at 700 E. Washington Street. Executive chefs Nick Grecco and Jason Campbell blend Yucatán and Asian cuisines, promising elegant, shareable dishes like sashimi and wood-grilled proteins. June aims to become Orlando's new culinary destination with its innovative menu and inviting atmosphere.

#ORLANDOSIGNAL 📸

A butterfly kinda morning

📷 via @orlandosignal |📍Laureate Park

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FOODIE FIND, FORK YEAH! 🤩
Delaney's Tavern

📍1315 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32806, or map to this location, right here.

Step into a world of culinary wonder at Delaney's Tavern (Insta). For just $45, embark on a journey that redefines weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Indulge in their bountiful appetizer station, featuring artisanal pastries, fresh salads, and a decadent chocolate fountain. Then, dive into their à la carte menu, boasting delights like steak and eggs, and chicken and waffles with berry compound butter.

Don't miss their stuffed French toast, crowned with an exotic mango-apricot-guava glaze. Sip complimentary sangrias and mimosas, or elevate your experience with craft cocktails.

MORE PULP! 😎
Weekday things to check out

> Today (Monday), see nationally touring comedians and Orlando's premier comics at the comfortable and elegant Admiral Cigar Club at 8 p.m. Minimum 2 drinks, or 1 drink and 1 cigar per person. Admiral Members get free admission! (laugh & smoke)

> On Wendesday, check out Oak Hill Drifters as they bring authentic Western swing to Judson's Live on August 14th. Experience revivalist Americana at 7 or 9 p.m. in Orlando's newest supper club. (deets & tix)

> This Wednesday, catch Fresh Flavors with Allison: Game Day Favorites at the Center for Health and Wellbeing in Winter Park at 11am. Allison Harrell, Registered Dietitian and Culinary Medicine Specialist, will share some tasty meals and appetizers that will not make you feel guilty the next day! (healthy eats)

> Also on Wednesday, peep out Faire of the Dog Night Market. 25+ vendors inside & outside the entire Wills Pub Compound in Mills 50. There will be food pop ups, vintage, handmade goods, jewelry, plants & more! (shop & eat)

> On Thursday, travel back to the Gilded Age and join author Rick Kilby as he explores the Victorian-era resorts at Florida’s springs where America’s elite ventured to “take the waters.” at the Orange County Regional History Center at 5:30 p.m. (show details)

> Also on Thursday, The Orlando Museum of Art is thrilled to announce the launch of La CinOMAthéque: Meshes of the Afternoon and At Land in partnership with the Enzian, as part of its “Access for All at OMA,” an all-new program offering FREE admission to the museum at 6 p.m.! (info)

THANKS!

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

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal