“There’s Johnny!”

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I went to Johnny’s Fillin’ Station (2631 South Ferncreek Avenue Orlando Fl) because I heard a band would be performing. I went to the bar right after work and the place was packed. There was a pool table in the corner and dark wood paneling on the walls. The star spangled sign on the front of the building proclaimed that this is where you get Orlando’s Best Burger. I found a small table facing the bar and ordered a beer and a burger. By the time the burger arrived, I was well into the sketch. I’d take a bite, wash it down and then push the plate aside to work on the sketch. It was a long leisurely meal and it was a darn good burger.

The waitress stopped back a few times since I was taking longer to eat than most costumers.  When she saw the sketch, she proclaimed “There’s Johnny!” She then pulled over other staff to see the sketch. When I was ready to leave, the band started setting up their equipment. I was already satiated, so I headed back home.

Art Therapy heals at Nemours.

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I went to the dedication ceremony at Nemours Children’s Cinic for the art therapy program. Jill Mundry addressed the crowd gathered for the dedication. Creative
volunteers share their passion and bring smiles to children and
families.Creativity of any kind, doing arts and crafts,
listening to music, or writing a story, helps kids explore and identify
feelings, deal with emotions, and even get better, faster. In fact, it’s been well documented that creative therapy can help:

  • improve cognitive skills
  • express feelings
  • increase awareness of others/self
  • enhance emotional and physical well being
  • improve self-satisfaction
  • manage pain
  • improve speech and language skills

Nemours is fortunate to have
a lively creative arts program that include dedicated volunteers and
local artists lead the kids in painting, drawing, and other fun
activities in the waiting areas.

 Located just south of downtown Orlando, (1717 S. Orange Ave., Suite 100 Orlando, FL), Nemours Children’s Clinic, is a kid-friendly outpatient pediatric clinic providing specialized pediatric care for families in Central Florida.  Their pediatric teams work together with your child’s pediatrician or family care provider,  to achieve the very best outcome for your child.

One of their most important partnerships is with you — because they believe in family-centered care. That means they value your input and welcome your questions so that, together, we can help your child grow up healthy.

They offer Central Florida’s only nationally-accredited Cystic Fibrosis Center
state-of-the-art Sleep Center studies a full spectrum of pediatric sleep disorders
weight management consultation programs for kids ages three to 16. Nemours provides
a commitment to family-centered car.

Solos

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On November 15th I went to 2 rehearsal of “Solos“, a play written by Joseph Reed Hayes at the Sandler Training Center (650 S. Northlake Blvd., Suite 430 Altamonte Springs Fl.) The production was part of Joseph’s 13 in 13 challenge, to produce 13 productions in 2013. Though the bar was set high, it seems that Joseph has completed every production he planned at the beginning of the year.

This is how Joseph describes this original play about Ben “Blues” Miller and his wife Ellie…”My
play, Solos, is nothing less than the history of jazz in America, as
told through the relationship of two people, in three movements and a
coda. Ellie’s story is a symphony: a fast, spritely first movement; a
dance-like statement of self; a slow and mournful fugue; a finale that
brings her back to herself; and then resolution and peace, reaffirming
her talent and strength in the coda. Ben, the hip
‘Blue’ Miller, is portrayed by the music; everything you need to know
about him is told by the progression of Ellie’s music, from forceful
swing to cool bebop, dissonant and chaotic free jazz, resolving back to
romantic and lyrical post-modern. Ben in a very real way does not truly
exist until Ellie creates him. If you know nothing about jazz, Solos is
theater, pure and simple, a love story of two people trying to live
through their art and insecurities. If you are familiar with jazz, the
musical hints will provide a little extra gift.”

 Paul Castaneda directed the actors Desiree Perez and Michael Sapp. While Ben Millers career as a jazz trumpeter grew, it became clear that Ellie was the creative force behind his rise. She wrote all the music that helped spark his rise. When he came home to brag about the crowds raw energy, Ella’s mood soured as she sat hoe alone. The characters arcs were always on opposing paths.  She yearned to have the music she wrote recognized but Ben got all the accolades. Though often at odds, the couple were undeniably stronger together. The play followed their relationship through the years. They grew old and matured together despite their differences.

At this rehearsal, the actors were already “off book” but Paul called them out to be fully present in the moment. While one actor was speaking, the other actors thoughts might wander to what they would have to do next. When they are fully, emotionally involved in the scene, that is when the magic happens. Both actors seemed to be living in their character’s skin. The affection and history between them felt very reel. The play will resonate for anyone who has ever felt that their talents were not fully recognized. It is only after the struggles, that the couple realizes how strong they are together.

Weekend Top 6 Picks

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Saturday December 21, 2013

10am to 4pm  Commander’s Call. Free. Museum of Military History 5210 West Irlo Bronson Hwy Kissimmee FL. This ongoing program is held on the 3rd Sat of each month is designed to appeal to families, military memorabilia collectors, history buffs, re-enactors & others interested in military history. In addition, persons interested in displaying, trading or selling their military items such as honor coins, swords, photographs, military buttons, scale model boats & planes, military art, uniforms or other equipment register in advance by calling the museum to reserve a spot. Re-enactors & veterans are welcome to come in uniform to add to the history & authenticity of the military experience. Non-military booths such as health care providers, home improvement, local attractions or other businesses are invited to be vendors for minimal donation.

3pm to 7pm Cruisin’ Downtown DeLand Car Show! Free. East Indiana Ave Downtown DeLand, Deland FL.  Classic cars & rods.  Live DJ, giveaways, shopping & dining. Fun for the family! Every 3rd Saturday night! http://mainstreetdeland.org/calendar.cfm/mode/details/id/12037/recurringId/71147/cruisdowntown-deland-car-show

9pm to Midnight The Falcon Presents: C-Note Collection. Free, but be sure to grab a drink and linger. The Falcon 819 E. Washington Street, Suite 2, Orlando, Fl. Original art and framed prints under $100.

Sunday December 22, 2013

1pm to 3pm Irish Music. Free. Olivia’s in 108 N. Bay Street, Eustice FL. http://www.oliviascoffeehouse.com/

5:30pm to 9pm Southern Fried Sunday. $10 Will’s Pub 1042 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL. Thomas Wynn & Friends, Hymn for Her, Bad Santa & The Angry Elves and The Bloody Jug Band will be entertaining you with some great music!   BBQ from The Smiling Bison!

6:30pm to 9:30pm   First European Winter Fair. Rosen Shingle Creek 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL.  The newest family event is a European-Style Gift-mart and Culinary-crafting. Booths and vendors, with displays on the decorated outdoor patio of the beautiful hotel, will offer gifts and crafts, cocktails and food, chocolate workshops, ornament-making, cookie decorating, custom Christmas stockings and more. Call 866.996.6338 for reservations.

The Sea Urchin

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11-19-13SeaUrchinOn November 18th, Mayor Buddy Dyer dedicated Orlando’s permanent contemporary sculpture collection. See Art Orlando was responsibly for bringing eight sculptures to downtown. Most of the sculptures are around lake Eola. See Art Orlando’s mission is to enhance the aesthetic experience and
cultural image of Downtown Orlando through a major Public Sculpture
Community Project. The installation of iconic works of art throughout
the City will bring National and International attention to Orlando and
will add to the economic viability of the community. The operating funds come from partnerships with corporations, family trusts, charitable grants and individual donations.

This sculpture by Wendy Ross is in the Seaside Plaza (201 S. Orange Avenue Orlando FL) just 2 blocks from City Hall. It’s erect similarity to the Asparagus in front of City Hall is astounding. One patron approaching the site said, “It looks like a Sea Urchin.” The mayor and his entourage walked past me just as I was starting this sketch. Rick Singh, the Orange County Property Appraiser stopped to tell me that there was a collection of art work in his offices. Yulissa Arch, his outreach coordinator gave me her card. I had met Rick’s wife at a Mennello Museum event and she impressed me as someone who truly appreciates art. Obviously so does Rick.

I had walked past many of the other sculptures on my way to Seaside Plaza. Each sculpture site had live musicians and libations. It was nice that the city lifted the ordinance that usually shuts down live performances on the streets of downtown for one night. As you approached each sculpture, you would hear musicians at work. Barricades surrounded sculptures where beer was being served. One woman walked away from a sculpture of a woman partially buried in the Lake Eola landscape. A policeman stopped the woman with the beer and told her she had to drink it inside the barricades. She took the order with good humor and returned to chug her drink.

The biggest party seemed to be at the Jacob Harmeling sculpture at Central and Osceola Avenue next to where the Farmers Market sets up and where “Food Not Bombs” used to share food before the police arrests and endless law suits shut this site down. This food sharing program now happens at City Hall. Jacob is the one local artist who is part or the sculpture project. Most of the sculptures light up using color changing diodes like those used in the Asparagus. I have to admit that the polished chrome illuminated sculptures do light up downtown, but I doubt many tourists will leave International Drive or the theme parks.

Weekend Top 6 Picks

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Saturday November 23, 2013

9am to 4pm Annual District 3 Thespian Festival. Free. Lyman High School in Longwood, FL. District 3 Thespians, the high school theater organization for students in Flagler, Lake, Seminole & Volusia Counties will feature local theaters, colleges, and theater-related businesses in the vendor room at our annual District 3 Thespian Festival.

10am to Midnight Dr. Who Holiday Art Event. $10. Acme Comics and Cards 905 E State Road 434 #100 Longwood FL.

Noon to 4pm  Community Indigo Vat Dying Party. Misty Forest 611 N. Hyer Ave., Orlando, Florida FL. This party is free to workshop attendees and $5 for friends and community. I would like to invite
our friends and community to help us use the remainder of the dye by
hosting an Indigo Vat Dyeing Party. You are welcome
to share in this exciting process by bringing a few 100% natural
plant-based fabrics (cotton, hemp, & linen only) to dye in the
indigo. You may bring clothing, accessories, yarn, pillow cases, tote
bags, napkins, etc. Please do not bring sheets or excessive yards of
fabric. Our vat is small and I ask that you limited yourself to 3-5
items. Please
wear old clothes and closed toe shoes. You will need to bring your own
dust mask and latex gloves (these are required to participate). I will
have string and rubber bands available to use for tie-dye and Shibori
techniques. Preregistration is required. To register, please email me at claycuriosities@gmail.com.

Sunday November 24, 2013

10am to Noon. Super Joy Riders. Eastern entrance of the Lake Eola Farmers’ Market. The Super Joy Riders: Do Gooder Bike Ride is an exercise in community organizing and active engagement. We hope to use the ride as an opportunity to show how helping people can be simple, fun, and easy, especially while wearing a cape. http://www.superjoyriders.com/

You + Superhero Costume + Bike = Best Sunday Ever

Noon to 2pm.  Florida Gospel Jam. Free, just order something off the menu. Fish on Fire 7937 Daetwyler Drive Belle Isle FL. Every 2nd and 4th Sunday every month.

1pm to 3pm. Irish Music. Free, but order something off the menu. Olivia’s in Eustice 108 N. Bay Street. http://www.oliviascoffeehouse.com/

The Day After Party

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On October 21st, I went to The Day After Party, at Sleuths Mystery Dinner Theatre (8267 International Drive, Orlando, Fl.) The organizer, Chozo Ninpo, was kind enough to let me in for a sketch. The room was set up to look like a medieval castle. The first act on stage was My Parents Favorite Music, followed by Emergency Pizza Party Area. The version I saw was simply Pizza. The singers shouted their hip hop into the mics. One singer had on a Chinese hat that hid his face in shadow. A few people stood on the dance floor swaying to the beats. While others snapped cell phone photos.

The organizer, Chozo, had items to auction off. One item was a helmet from the video game Halo. One singer from MPFM was dressed like a nerd princess but had a deep toned voice. I was most curious to see the local group, Solillaquists of Sound but they were not in the line up for the night. They performed at Nerdapalooza on Sunday night and had plans to come out to the after party but there was a scheduling conflict.

Weekend Top 6 Picks

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Saturday November 16, 2013

10am to 8pm Rotary’s 3rd Annual Art, Craft and Wine Festival. Free to attend. Cranes Roost Park (274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs, FL). Join us on November 16th and 17th for the 3rd Annual Rotary Art, Craft and Wine Festival! It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy the cooler weather and
a great opportunity to start your holiday shopping!
This festival features 120+ talented artists and crafters offering
original and unique items. Setting this event apart from other art and
craft shows is
the special Wine Stroll taking place both days. Map of Event. http://www.aacwf.com/

10am to 4pm  Commander’s Call. Free. Museum of Military History (5210 West Irlo Bronson Hwy Kissimmee FL). This ongoing program is held on the 3rd Saturday of each month is designed to appeal to families, military memorabilia collectors, history buffs, re-enactors & others interested in military history. In addition, persons interested in displaying, trading or selling their military items such as honor coins, swords, photographs, military buttons, scale model boats & planes, military art, uniforms or other equipment register in advance by calling the museum to reserve a spot. Re-enactors and veterans are welcome to come in uniform to add to the history & authenticity of the military experience. Non-military booths such as health care providers, home improvement, local attractions or other businesses are invited to be vendors for minimal donation.  www.museumofmilitaryhistory.com



9pm to Midnight  Out Go the Lights, Thee Wilt Chamberlain, The Haroux. $5 The Space (above Anthony’s Pizza) on the corner of Mills/50. Thee Wilt Chamberlain, Casual Creatures (Miami), The Haroux, Rebel (Miami). Plus an art show featuring: Alana Questell, Guillermo Casanova, Brandon McLean, Adam Lavigne, Dnl Hrs. There will be and merchandise, Relief in Abstract table, and UCF Print Collective table in the art room

Sunday November 17, 2013

3pm to 6pm Yelp’s Bohemian Bash. Free, but the event is full. $10 suggested donation to the Harbor House.  Waiting list RSVP.  The Acre (4421 Edgewater Drive Orlando, FL). You won’t want to miss this exhibition of excitement including crafty cocktails, nifty nibbles and eclectic entertainment!

5pm to 9pm Orlando Food Truck Bazaar.  Free to attend. Fashion Square Mall (3201 East Colonial Drive Orlando FL). Imagine a parking lot full of food trucks filled with delicious gourmet, ethnic, BBQ and desserts.  No beer, no music, no bounce houses. No fluff, just good food. (And bring your chairs!) Now
imagine the entire parking lot picking up and moving to a different
city night after night: that is The Food Truck Bazaar! This event
travels just like a food truck does!

9pm to 11pm  Solo Acoustic Spoken Word. Natura Coffee and Tea (12078 Collegiate Way Orlando FL). 407 482-5000


The Asparagus

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11-13-13TheAsparigus2 Mayor Buddy Dyer and former Mayor Bill Frederick hosted the illumination ceremony for the “Tower of Light” on Nov 12.  The sculpture by artist Ed Carpenter, was commissioned and
installed in 1992 under the leadership of then Mayor Bill Frederick. The
original halogen lighting failed in 1994. Many attempts at funding a
relighting project were discussed in the interim but the sculpture remained dark and neglected for 20 years. In fact, due to lack of funding, especially during the
economic downturn, there was little to no maintenance at all performed
to the sculpture or base. The light less Tower of Light’s 102 glass panels weathered under the
Florida sun growing dull over time. Its steel framework corroded.

Knowing that the City’s See Art Orlando
project was slated for debut in late 2013, the Orlando chapter of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW)
pledged to raise a minimum of $50,000 to clean and light the sculpture
and rework the basin. Sitting on the Plaza in front of City Hall, the
sculpture celebrates the intersection of private and public interests in
the City of Orlando and is a symbol of the asparagus in our
community. Including donated labor, the renovation cost an estimated $152,000, none of it from taxpayers.

 The 63-foot glass-and-steel spire received a makeover including 650 watts of programmable LEDS with full color spectrum, data cabling and a wireless controller. The controller can be programmed with numerous pre-sets (length and color of display) and can be accessed via the Internet on computer, phone or tablet. Sir Terrance Hummel added mosaics to the seating at the base of the sculpture.

As the sky grew dark, a crowd of 50 or so people gathered first on the balcony of City Hall and then in the City Hall square beneath the sculpture. A news helicopter hovered above City Hall for quite some time waiting for the sculpture to light up. Terry came down from her office and went across the street to see what was happening. She came back with a small squeeze bottle of disinfectant which I guess was swag at the event. She asked around to find out if any of the sculptures that are being placed all around town as part of “See Art Orlando” were by local artists and she was told that none of them were. My research showed that one sculptor, Jacob Harmeling, is from Orlando. His sculpture can be found in Lake Eola at Central Boulevard and Osceola Avenue near Publix. I haven’t seen it yet.

Buddy, bathed in bright light gave his speech with the usual decrees.  Actually I couldn’t hear anything he said from my perch across the street as I sketched. A passenger in a car parked at the red light next to me asked what was the building with the cylinder shaped tower. I pointed out city Hall and said the other building was just full of lawyers. At the proper moment the crowd grew still and the sculpture was illuminated for the first time in two decades. It glowed green and then the color shifted to blue and purple. Great, I thought, what color should I paint? I went with the first color that blazed bright. There was applause and people slowly dispersed. Josh Garrick approached me wanting to see what color I chose to use when illuminating the sculpture in my sketch. “Ah, you chose green, which makes it look all the more like an asparagus.” said Josh. On Facebook that night everyone seemed to refer to the statue as “The Asparagus”. Now I can’t think of a better name.

Weekend Top 6 Picks

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Saturday November 9, 2013

8am to 3pm Fifth Third Bank Second Art Market, (Fifth Third Bank Coloinal Branch, 3244 E Colonial Drive Orlando, FL). Free. On the 2nd Sunday of every month Gallery Fresh Art Markets and 5/3 Fifth Third Bank (Colonial Branch) proudly present our “Second Saturday Art Market” This outdoor event will showcase 20 to 30 artists and fine crafts persons located at 5/3 Bank Colonial Branch, Directly Across From Orlando Fashion Square, from 9am to 3pm in an outdoor setting with AMAZING ART, music, food trucks, and fun! Join Us!

10am to 5pm   The Festival of the Masters. Downtown Disney 1780 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL. Free.  The 38th annual Festival of the Masters is Nov. 8-10 in the Downtown Disney Area. Dazzling works of art from more than 150 Master artists. One of the largest displays of official Disney Art in the Disney Artist Village.

7pm to 11pm The Master Class Event. Just bring canned goods for the food drive. Through philanthropic events and the sale of items from our Conscious Boutique, Conscious People LLC strives to support a community of mindful, healthy, and socially responsible people. The theme of this Master Class event is: Be Conscious to Local Hunger Issues, an Art Show and Food Drive benefiting the Second Harvest Food Bank. Genevieve DeMarco will be the featured artist of the night. All new work will be presented throughout the venue. Music performances from MoZaic and Purple Kloud.

Sunday November 10, 2013

10am to 6pm  Fashion Square Art Fair. Free. Orlando Fashion Square (3201 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, Fl). This is an indoor event showcasing 30 to 60 artists and fine crafts persons located throughout Fashion Square Mall.

12:30pm to 4pm Florida Gospel Jam. Grab a drink or some food. Fish on Fire 7937 Daetwyler Drive Belle Island FL.Non Denominational Gospel open mic Every 2nd and 4th Sunday.

9pm to 11pm Non Denominational Gospel open mic. Every 2nd and 4th Sunday. Free. Natura Coffee and Tea 12078 Collegiate Way Orlando FL).