The Lu-Rae Motel

TOGETHER WITH

Good morning, Orlando. Happy Labor Day! So my family and I got into a lot of trouble at East End Market this weekend.

Happy birthday to Jarrett Cathcart 🎂

 In today’s issue: 👇

• The Lu-Rae Motel

• 52,450-acre expansion

• The Osprey

• ….and much more

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Let’s dive in!

- Philip

P.S. I’ve talked a hell of a lot about Lake Eola swans the past few issues. Here are the new ones getting released onto the lake.

ORLANDO REWIND ⏪
The Lu-Rae Motel's Enduring Saga

In Casselberry, the Lu-Rae Motel stands as a stubborn relic of America's road trip golden age. Since 1951, this humble establishment has witnessed a parade of colorful characters and local dramas.

From Howard and Edith Hamer's brief innkeeper dreams to Paul C. Altman's political ascent and fall, the Lu-Rae's story mirrors Casselberry's evolution. Altman's tenure saw him unseat Hibbard Casselberry himself, only to resign two years later.

The motel's legacy intertwines with Casselberry's temperance movement, culminating in a 1959 Sunday liquor ban. Today, under Tracy Putnam's stewardship, the Lu-Rae defies the cookie-cutter motel era, its filled-in pool a grassy monument to splashes past.

Yet, as the nearby Lake Fairy Motel endures and the Lake Kathryn Motel succumbed to pandemic pressures, the Lu-Rae's survival feels bittersweet. It stands as a poignant reminder of a vanishing roadside culture, where panel ray heaters once warmed travelers' dreams and postcards boasted of Lake Ellen's private beach.

In a world of constant change, the Lu-Rae Motel remains a defiant time capsule, whispering tales of bygone Americana to those who listen.

(Learn more about Lu-Rae Motel from Jason Byrne, right here.)

TOGETHER WITH THE ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER
History Alive: Juan Ponce de León & the Fountain of Youth

Experience a thrilling historical adventure with Juan Ponce de León on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Unravel the mystery of Florida's discovery and the fabled Fountain of Youth. Dive into captivating activities, marvel at rare artifacts, and join guided tours at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Was the fountain myth or motivation? Explore the man behind the legend in this family-friendly event.

🔥 Also, Bank of America/Merrill Lynch cardholders, rejoice! Through the Bank of America Museums on Us® partnership with the History Center, present your credit or debit card and photo ID for free admission on the first full weekend of the month.

Don't miss this chance to quench your thirst for knowledge – no magical waters required!

THE SQUEEZE 🍊
Frontier Orlando: A City's Wrestle with Growth and Resources

Orlando stands at a crossroads as Farmland Reserve, Inc., a Mormon Church-affiliated nonprofit, proposes a staggering 52,450-acre expansion of the city limits.

This audacious move, dwarfing Manhattan in scale, ignites debates over water resources and sustainable growth. Environmental advocates warn of straining an already taxed water supply, while officials navigate a complex political landscape.

With Orange County voters facing crucial ballot measures on rural boundaries and annexation oversight, the city must balance property rights and responsible development.

As Orlando contemplates this potential transformation, the coming months will reveal whether this bold vision will reshape Central Florida's future or remain an ambitious dream on the drawing board.

Art Museum Launches Free Program for Neurologically Impaired

The Orlando Museum of Art is set to illuminate lives with "Art's the Spark," a free program for those facing memory and neurological challenges.

On select Saturdays, including September 7 and October 7, the museum will open early, from 10:30 a.m. to noon, offering a haven of creativity.

Inspired by New York's Museum of Modern Art, this pioneering Central Florida initiative features interactive tours, art history sessions, and studio activities.

Caregivers aren't forgotten, with dedicated spaces for coffee and conversation. By providing this free, inclusive experience, the museum reaffirms art's power to transcend cognitive barriers. "Art's the Spark" stands as a beacon of hope, proving that beauty and connection can flourish in unexpected places.

Winter Garden Cultivates Holistic Health at Tucker Ranch

Winter Garden is transforming its landscape with the expansion of Tucker Ranch. The ground-breaking of the 25.6-acre Tucker Ranch Holistic Health, Wellness, Teaching Farm and Family Activity Center marks a pivotal moment in community well-being.

This $31 million project will feature edible gardens, outdoor cooking classes, and winding trails with exercise stations.

A 5,000-square-foot retreat center will anchor health programming, complementing the existing park's amenities. The expansion builds on the ranch's rich history, from its days as a country club to its wartime role in radar testing.

City officials envision Tucker Ranch as a model for urban wellness, weaving health into the fabric of city life. As construction begins, Winter Garden sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.

✅ Check out these incredible renderings, right here.

ConRAC: Orlando Airport's $2.2 Billion Answer to Parking Woes

In last week’s Thursday issue, I mentioned the significant restyling happening to MCO’s Terminals A & B, but let’s talk about the big parking changes happening as well.

Orlando International Airport is conjuring up a parking miracle with its ambitious "ConRAC" plan.

This consolidated rental car facility which will unite all rental operations in one location, promises to free up 5,000 spaces by 2032, transforming the frustrating hunt for parking into a seamless experience. To fund this $2.2 billion vision, rental car fees will increase from $6 to $9 daily.

Meanwhile, MCO isn't idling: 2,000 new spaces have already appeared, a reservation system debuted in January 👇, and partnerships with LYNX aim to ease traffic woes. The cherry on top? A high-tech system to track available spots in real-time.

As Orlando continues to enchant millions, the airport ensures the magic begins the moment you park.

🔥 I’ll re-link the FREE MCO security reservation system right here since it was a big hit last time I shared it.

TASTY NEWS 🧑‍🍳
Orlando Eateries On Their Way

1️⃣ Nando Grill Carne en Vara - Sizzling Steaks Find Permanent Home

Sizzling sensation Nando Grill Carne en Vara (Insta) “Meat on a stick” trades wheels for walls in Orlando. By September's end, 3060 W Sand Lake Rd will host this Venezuelan steak haven. Owner Fernando Mendoza's quick-service dream evolves, promising draft beer and wine. South Florida's favorite food truck finds a permanent home, redefining fast food with flair.

2️⃣ Hummus Republic - Customizable Cuisine Conquers Oviedo Market

Mediterranean magic arrives in Oviedo this month as Hummus Republic (Insta) debuts at 69 Alafaya Woods Blvd. Franchisee Gadah Aziz's culinary dream offers build-your-own bowls and wraps, catering to all dietary realms. With 10 new hires and dreams of expansion, this fast-casual revolution promises a flavorful Florida invasion.

3️⃣ Upcoming City Food Hall adding to the lineup

City Food Hall (Insta) emerges in Ivanhoe Village, transforming the former Hall on the Yard. Opening next month, it unites DJ Tagalin and Michael Collantes for a trio of flavors: Chez Les Copains, Asin, and a reborn Taglish. Ramen Takagi and EggDose help round out the lineup in this two-story taste adventure.

#ORLANDOSIGNAL 📸

Easy Luck Coffee & Bodega Photography

📷 via @easyluckorl |📍Milk District

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

FOODIE FIND, FORK YEAH! 🤩
The Osprey

📍4899 New Broad St, Orlando, FL 32814, or map to this location.

Situated by the lake in Baldwin Park, The Osprey (Insta) has been a culinary gem since March 2015.

As the second brainchild of Good Salt Restaurant Group, it showcases Sue and Jason Chin's expertise in creating captivating spaces. Chef/Partner Michael Cooper's menu is a seafood lover's dream, featuring an array of oysters, decadent towers, locally sourced line-caught fish, and peanut-butter pie (OOF!).

The kitchen also excels at prime steaks sizzling over Florida oak and handmade pasta. Whether you're settling into the stylish dining room for a celebration or perching at the sleek bar, The Osprey promises an unforgettable experience.

From the heavenly rigatoni bolognese to the comforting clam chowder, each dish elevates Baldwin Park's culinary scene to new heights.

MORE PULP! 😎
Weekday things to check out

> Today (Monday), head to Audubon Park and take a leisurely stroll around Harry P. Leu Gardens, this beautiful botanical garden, free of charge today. (enjoy nature)

> Tomorrow (Tuesday), enjoy Iris Paper Folding at the Maitland Library. Iris Paper Folding originated in Holland in the early 20th century. It is technique that involves folding strips of colored paper in to a spiral design. Join and design unique and beautiful homemade cards for your friends and family. (start crafting)

> Also tomorrow (Tuesday), learn to Taste Wine Like a Master Sommelier with George Miliotes at Winebar George. Guests will learn to taste wine like a professional with a “blind” tasting of six different wines. Hear firsthand from George about his journey through the wine world and what it takes to become a Master Sommelier. (start sippin’)

> On Thursday, check out Comedy Dark on Mills 50! Grab a comedy fanatic and treat them to a showcase featuring professional comedians doing their craziest material!” (laugh out loud)

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