The Pongamia

Good morning, Orlando! Where even the alligators hit snooze on Monday mornings.

 In today’s issue: 👇

• Amelia Earhart in Orlando

• The Pongamia

• Kai Kai

• ….and much more

🛑 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. 🐈 😻

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

Let’s dive in!

- Philip

ORLANDO REWIND ⏪
The Flying Legend and the City Beautiful: Amelia Earhart in Orlando

In late 1935, Orlando unexpectedly hosted aviation legend Amelia Earhart. A rediscovered "What's What in Orlando" magazine revealed her visit amid ads for 35-cent meals at the Sanitary Restaurant.

Earhart, fresh from solo Atlantic and Hawaii-mainland flights, arrived on a crucial lecture tour. These speeches, netting $300 each, funded her aviation dreams, including plans for a Lockheed Model 10E Electra, dubbed a "flying laboratory" by her husband George Putnam.

On December 29, Orlando's Municipal Auditorium buzzed as 400-800 listeners gathered. Earhart recounted her 1935 Honolulu-Oakland and Mexico City-New York flights, advocating for air travel's safety.

She asserted that flying at 170 mph was safer than driving at 40 mph. Beyond aviation, she championed women's rights and pacifism, using her fame as a platform.

Earhart remained coy about future plans, noting pilots always dream of the next flight. Unknown to Orlando, they witnessed history's calm before a storm. By early 1936, she began planning an equatorial round-the-world flight, an unprecedented challenge.

Tragically, 18 months post-Orlando, Earhart vanished over the Pacific. Her disappearance spawned an 85-year mystery, transforming her from aviator to legend, and cementing her place in history.

THE SQUEEZE 🍊
Rooted in Resilience With The Pongamia Tree's Florida Takeover

Not exactly Orlando, but still relevant and interesting how in fields northwest of West Palm Beach, a quiet revolution is taking root. The pongamia tree, a hardy legume from India, is breathing new life into abandoned citrus groves.

Naveen Sikka's company, Terviva, sees it as the perfect solution to Florida's agricultural woes. Resilient and low-maintenance, pongamia thrives where citrus struggled. Its beans yield versatile oil and protein, finding their way into foods and promising low-carbon biofuel.

For farmers like John Olson, who replaced grapefruit with pongamia on his 215-acre ranch, it's a lifeline after citrus diseases devastated the industry.

As pongamia spreads from Florida to Hawaii, it's not just transforming landscapes—it's writing a new chapter in American agriculture, one of resilience and sustainable innovation.

Sunshine State Standoff As OUC's PeakSHIFT Sparks Controversy

Some of you may recall the story I covered back in mid-June about “Orlando's Renewable Rift.” Well, Orlando's solar scene continues sizzling with controversy as the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) postpones its PeakSHIFT initiative amid fierce public backlash.

The proposed overhaul aims to revolutionize solar pricing with fixed distribution charges and a shift from net metering to net billing.

Heaven Campbell of Solar United Neighbors argues that net metering is law and champions energy equity. A recent $156 million federal grant for solar expansion in low-income communities hangs in the balance, with Campbell warning that OUC's changes could jeopardize its impact.

As OUC retreats to reassess and engage with stakeholders, the future of Orlando's energy landscape remains uncertain.

This solar saga may spark a broader revolution in renewable energy approaches, potentially reshaping Florida's energy future under its relentless sun.

From Scrubs to Sugar: Oakland's Accidental Baking Sensation

In Oakland, Chloë Stoppler's sweet revolution is transforming lives one treat at a time.

Once a nursing student, she found her true calling in baking, inspired by childhood memories with her mother. In 2021, Stoppler launched Oakland Bake Company from her home, single-handedly managing every aspect.

Her signature creations (Insta), from white velvet cakes to intricately designed sugar cookies, showcase her innovative spirit and attention to detail. Stoppler's flat-rate pricing and commitment to customization set her apart in the industry.

Her weekly rhythm of baking, decorating, and selling at the local farmers’ market has earned her accolades and a devoted following.

As she looks forward to sharing her passion with her young son, Harrison, Stoppler's journey reminds us that sometimes, the sweetest path in life is the unexpected one.

Sunshine and Santa: Florida's Midsummer Christmas Craze

Central Florida embraces Christmas in July with a flurry of festive events. From The Florida Mall's "Sleigh Bells in the Sunshine" to Sanford's downtown celebration, the region offers holiday cheer amid summer heat.

Santa John Hayes embodies year-round spirit, while Eric Johannessen's Winter Park showroom dazzles with lights and decorations.

Families can enjoy Santa visits, holiday movies, and even ice skating at various locations.

Craft enthusiasts can create ornaments at Needleworks, while pet owners capture festive photos at Woof Gang Bakery.

Margaritaville Resort Orlando and Avalon Park host tropical holiday parties, complete with fake snow and summer Santas.

Maitland's "Jingle in July" rounds out the month with a movie night and themed farmers market. While Lake Nona has visits from Mr. & Mrs. Clause this Saturday.

These events prove that in Florida, holiday magic isn't confined to December, offering a unique blend of yuletide joy and summer fun for all ages.

TASTY NEWS 🧑‍🍳
Orlando Eateries On Their Way

1️⃣ Fable Coffee and Pastries - Craft Coffee Brews and Community Views

Fable Coffee and Pastries (Insta), brainchild of Alain Hernandez and Andy Wilson, opens late July in East Orlando. This 1,890-square-foot "table top cafe" offers craft coffee, homemade pastries, and Brazilian specialties. With seating for 44, board games, and community events, it aims to be a hub for locals and UCF students alike.

2️⃣ Kai Kai - Chinatown Flavors Arrive in Orlando

Kai Kai (Insta), helmed by Jerry and Jackie Lau, brings 35 years of Cantonese culinary expertise to Mills Market next week. The former food truck duo will serve authentic roast duck, crispy pork, dim sum, fresh dumplings, and traditional rice and noodle dishes. This new stall promises a taste of NYC's Chinatown in Orlando.

3️⃣ Kaleidoscope - New Chapter for Beloved Location

Kaleidoscope (Insta), a new restaurant/bar concept, is set to replace Garden Bistro at 712 E. Washington Street in Thornton Park. Managed by Felicia Vestal of The Veranda, it will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Opening next month, Kaleidoscope fills the space left by Garden Bistro, which closed on June 23.

#ORLANDOSIGNAL 📸

The Garden Chapel

📷 via @ahmaitland |📍Maitland

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

FOODIE FIND, FORK YEAH! 🤩
Turci Panino

📍2122 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, Florida 32804, or map to this location, right here.

Turci Panino (Insta) is redefining Italian sandwiches with its house-made focaccia and premium ingredients.

Recently, they've introduced a $59 happy hour menu featuring a wine and antipasti experience that's capturing hearts. This feast includes two wine glasses, focaccia with spread, salami, prosciutto, burrata, mozzarella, olives, and balsamic parmesan.

Generous portions ensure leftovers, making it a great value.

For a more upscale experience, their sister restaurant, Turci Pasta (Insta), is next door. Turci Panino's commitment to quality and flavor has made it a local favorite, drawing both regulars and newcomers eager to explore their menu.

MORE PULP! 😎
Weekday things to check out

👉 sorry, a bit of an anemic week of weekday activities. 😞

>  Anytime this week, hit up the newly opened Cloudhop Bakeshop in SoDo. Hmmm, I may have to do a deeper Foodie Find on this one later on. (More info)

>  Tomorrow (Tuesday), enjoy Andrew Rich perform at 54 W from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. as part of the DTOLive event series (More info)

>  On Wednesday, check out Hannah Stokes' performance at Duncan Park from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. as part of the DTOLive event series (More info)

>  This Wednesday, check out DOMU's 6th Annual Wieners & Wine Down at the East End Market Courtyard. Ticket includes: Bottomless wine, sangria, bubbles, and beer on tap DJ Eno (Epcot Japan). (More info)

>  This Thursday, catch Ramble On: The Tribute to Led Zeppelin. Ramble On transports their audience to the 1970s and the legend that is Led Zeppelin. “The Song Remains The Same” — enjoy an epic night of rock ’n’ roll as they pay homage to one of the greatest bands in history. Get ready to experience Led Zeppelin’s iconic hits and the magic of their music live on stage. (More info)

👋 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.

🆕 Are you looking to promote your event? Then click right here for a premium event listing.

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

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal