ORANGEEXTRA
What’s happening Income-tax assistance:
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers, trained and certified by the IRS, will provide free income tax assistance at numerous sites throughout the Orange and Seminole County area, Feb. 1-April 18. Individuals seeking assistance should bring pertinent tax documents such as information showing health insurance coverage, a copy of last year’s income tax return; forms showing income earned, pensions and Social Security; 1099 Forms showing interest and dividends, photo ID, Social Security cards for all those listed on their return. Free electronic filing will be available at all sites. For details and locations, call 1-888-2277669 or visit aarpfoundation. org/taxaide.
Documentary Cinema:
Presented by the University Club of Winter Park. “Brave Blue World,” a documentary exploring the exciting new technologies and innovations that have the potential to solve the world’s water crisis. 10 a.m. Jan. 23, University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. To attend this event, email your full name to info@uclubwp. org. Free.
Mayor’s Job Fair: Featuring more than 100 employers offering thousands of career openings in various industries and resources on hand to assist your job search. Bring resumes and dress professionally. No children. Noon-4 p.m. Jan. 25, Central Florida Fair Expo Park, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, free, CFEC.org/job-fairs, 407-834-4022.
Estate Planning Live Webinar:
Attorney Kathleen Flammia and Attorney
Stacey Schwartz discuss asset protection, planning for long term care and essential estate planning documents. Viewing instructions will be provided upon RSVP. 6 p.m. Jan. 25, free, 407-478-8700.
Gardening in Containers: Join Robert Bowden as he presents a variety of styles, colors, and planting techniques to make even the smallest garden space a place of beauty. Advance registration required. 6:308:30 p.m. Jan. 26, Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, $16 garden members, $21 nonmembers, leugardens.org, 407-2462620.
Craft sale: The Maitland Woman’s Club event will feature crafts, jewelry, vintage, gifts, art and more. Proceeds benefit charitable projects. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Jan. 28, Venue on the Lake: The Maitland Civic Center, 641 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland, admission is free.
History Group: Presented by the University Club of Winter Park. Club member Steve Bertha presents “Hernando de Soto Discovers America.” Bertha will present the story of the four-year journey of 600-plus Spaniards led by de Soto through the American Southeast in search of wealthy cities to plunder. 10 a.m. Jan. 30, University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. To attend, email your full name to info@ uclubwp.org. Free.
GriefShare: A 13-week nondenominational support group for anyone who has experienced the death of a family member or friend. Online group begins 6:30 p.m. Feb. 2 and in-person group begins 10 a.m. Feb. 7, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, free, email care@st.lukes. org or call 407-876-4991, Ext. 262.
Orange County Retired Educators Association: This is the group’s annual potluck birthday lunch celebrating those retirees turning 90 this year. Bring your favorite potluck food to share. Anyone who has worked in education is invited. Masks are optional. 11:30 a.m. Feb. 2, Church on the Drive, 1914 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, free, ocreafl. org or 407-843-6909.
Family Day at the OMA:
Featuring hands-on art and gallery activities, storytelling, dancing, music, and keepsake photos. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 4, Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Ave., Orlando, free, omart.org, 407-896-4231.
‘Out of the Darkness’ community walk: Hosted by the Central Florida chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Proceeds will benefit research and education programs to prevent suicide and save lives. The walk also will raise awareness about depression and suicide, and provide comfort and assistance to those who have lost someone to suicide. 8 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. walk Feb. 4, Baldwin Park, 2420 Lakemont Ave., Winter Park, pledges and donations, 407-646-2227.
Central Florida Winter 2023 Stamp Show:
Hosted by the Central Florida Stamp Club, there will be 15 dealers buying, selling or trading stamps. Free stamps will be provided to children. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 4, Venue on the Lake-Maitland Civic Center, 641 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland, free admission and parking. 407-493-0956.
2023 RHL Anti-Gala: The casual-style event will include a silent auction and entertainment. Proceeds will benefit Page 15 literacy program, XL.ENT special needs soccer program at XL Soccer World and Hope for More Foundation’s yearlong grant initiative to assist families in transition throughout the community. 7-11 p.m. Feb. 4, Fields BMW, 963 Wymore Road, Winter Park. Tickets start at $200 per guest, which includes complimentary drinks and meals from a variety of favorite local food trucks. OrlandoAntiGala.com.
Orange Audubon Society Sunrise Photo Shoot:
Led by professional photographer, author and instructor of nature photography Milton Heiberg, participants will photograph the sunrise with water reflections at one of the most scenic locations in Central Florida. The rest of the morning will be spent photographing flying and perching birds and other wildlife. Participants should have a working knowledge of digital SLR photography. Bring a tripod and a 300 mm or longer lens (tele-extenders help). 6-10 a.m. Feb. 5, Orlando Wetlands Park, 25155 Wheeler Road, Christmas, $60 for Audubon members, $75 for nonmembers, and class is limited to 12 adult participants. To register, email mwilliams@cfl.rr.com or call 407-637-2525.
Deeds and Homestead Live Webinar:
Attorney Michael Gumula discusses Florida deeds, Homestead in Estate Planning documents, and Homestead when an owner passes. Viewing instructions will be provided upon RSVP. 2 p.m. Feb. 7, free, 407-4788700.
GriefShare:
Open to anyone who has experienced the death of a family member or friend. Groups meet weekly for 13 weeks. All faiths welcome. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursdays beginning Feb. 2 (online group) or 10 a.m.noon Tuesdays beginning Feb. 7 (in-person), St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, free, email care@st.lukes.org or call 407-876-4991, Ext. 262.
League of Women Voters Orange County:
The “Hot Topics: Black Resistance” program will include panelists Professor Patricia A. Broussard of A&M University College of Law; Professor Carmen Diaz of Valencia African Heritage Association; and Professor Donald Harrell, CEO and President of African Diasporic Arts and Education Inc. Reservations required. 11:30 a.m. Feb. 8, Winter Park Events Center, 1050 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, $30 for members, $37 for nonmembers includes lunch, lwvoc.org, 407-599-3571.
10th Annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes:
Harbor House of Central Florida will host the 10th annual domestic abuse awareness event with key community leaders and community advocates. 6 p.m. Feb. 9, Orange County Courthouse, 425 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, $25-$35, harborhousefl.com.
gARTening Series - February Floral Fest:
Join Orange County Extension Agent Clarissa Chairez and Master Gardener Volunteers to learn the introductory techniques of floral design and how to utilize material from your own garden. Attendees will design their own floral arrangement to take home. Advance registration required. 2-3:30 p.m. or 6-7:30 p.m. Feb. 10, Orange County University of Florida IFAS
Extension, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $25 per person, 407-254-9200.
Amateur Radio and Electronics Show:
The Orlando Amateur Radio Club’s 76th annual “HamCation” event will feature more than 30 educational forums, 100 commercial vendors, 200 swap tables and outdoor tailgate to demonstrate and sell amateur radios, parts, amateur radio related computer hardware and software. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 10-11, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 12, Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, $25 covers admission for all three days, 407-8410874, hamcation.com.
Four Chaplains Memorial Ceremony, an inspiring interfaith service to remember four Army chaplains:
A Methodist Minister, a Reformed Minister, a Rabbi and a Roman Catholic priest who gave their lives saving others. Sponsored by American Legion Post #63. 6 p.m. Feb. 10, First Baptist Church of Winter Garden, 125 E. Plant St., free, 407-625-8604.
Paws in the Park: Sponsored by the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, the event will raise awareness and money to benefit homeless pets. There will be lure courses for big and small dogs, photo stations, costume contest, vendor marketplace, food trucks, Pet Alliance swag and pet adoption opportunities. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 11, Lake Eola Park, 227 N. Eola Drive, Orlando, admission is free, event costs vary, pledges and donations encouraged, pawsinthepark. org, 407-351-7722.
Preparing Your Garden for Spring Season: Presented
by Orange County Extension Agent Calvin Gardner, this class is designed to help gardeners get a successful start to their Spring season gardens. Advance registration required. 2-3:30 p.m. Feb. 16, Orange County University of Florida IFAS Extension, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, free, 407-254-9200.
Orlando Wetlands Festival:
The annual event will include environmental themed, nonprofit exhibitors; demonstration trucks and equipment; air-conditioned guided bus tours of Orlando Wetlands Park; guided birding hikes led by Orange Audubon Society; guided photography, native plant ID, and aquatic critter crawl hikes; live animals, presentations and native plant giveaway. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 18, Orlando Wetlands Park, 25155 Wheeler Road, Christmas, free, 407-568-1706.
Driver safety program:
The AARP Driver Safety Program’s Smart Driver Course helps participants refine driving skills and develop safe driving habits. Upon completion of the course, Florida drivers 50 or older may be eligible for vehicle insurance discounts. Registration required. 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Feb. 21, Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, $20 for AARP members, $25 for nonmembers, 407-961-1473.
How to Avoid Probate Live Webinar:
Attorney Stacey Schwartz will explain how to avoid Probate. Viewing instructions will be provided upon RSVP. 6 p.m. Feb. 22, free, 407-478-8700.
Gardening in Containers:
Presented by Orange County Extension Agent Calvin Gardner, topics covered will include selecting the right container, preparing your potting soil, finding the right plant for the right pot, and finally how to maintain your container garden. Advance registration required.10-11:30 a.m. Feb. 23, Orange County University of Florida IFAS Extension, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $5, 407-254-9200.
Adopt-A-Tree:
Open to all Orange County residents with proof of residency such as a driver’s license, utility bill, or photo I.D. Each household is eligible to receive two trees, and the trees may be planted on resident’s private property only. Trees are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and varieties will vary based on availability. 8 a.m.-noon Feb. 25, South Econ Community Park, 3800 S Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, free, 407-254-9200.
Low-cost Gardening in Small Spaces:
Join Orange County Extension Agent Clarissa Chairez and Master Gardener Volunteers to explore ideas on how to cut gardening costs and how to garden in small spaces. Advance registration required. 10:30 a.m.-noon Feb. 28, Orange County University of Florida IFAS Extension, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $5, 407-254-9200.
Central Florida Koi and Goldfish Show:
The annual judged koi show will feature entries from across the country, vendors of koi, goldfish, pond supplies, aquatic plants and garden art. There will be a goldfish show with certified judging. Seminar presentations on koi, goldfish and ponds will be conducted all day March 11 ($10 for the day). Sponsored by Orlando Area Koi & Pond Club, ZNA Southern Koi Association and the koi clubs of Florida East Coast, Rainbow River and Gainesville. 1-5 p.m. March 10, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. March 12, Avanti Palms Resort, 6515 International Drive, Orlando, admission is free, cfks.org, 407-419-8517.
Apopkon: A pop-culture, Sci-fi, comic book, and toy collector festival, with a purpose, to bring awareness and mental health, wellness and suicide prevention resources to the area. The family-friendly event will include vendors, food trucks, meditation, wellness professionals, music and art practices, Cosplay competitions, arcade rooms and more. 5-8 p.m. May 5, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. May 6, Camp Wewa, 221 S Binion Rd, Apopka, $20-$65, apopkon.com/.
Clog Dancing for All Ages:
The Orlando Cloggers will offer new beginner clogging classes. The lessons progress throughout the rest of the year. 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando, $4 per person per night, 407-929-5102, OrlandoCloggers. com.
Orlando Amateur Radio Club:
Guests are welcome. License testing at 5:30 p.m., meetings 7:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month, Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, 407-841-0874, oarc.org.
Liberty Karate Club:
Minimum age 15 years old. 7:30-9 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Friends Community Church, 53 S. Dean Road, Orlando, $40 per month, libertykarateclub.com, 407-484-5124.
Learn to Line Dance: Learn the basic steps of line dancing to fun, easy dances and upbeat music. 2 p.m. Sundays, Lake Island Hall, 450 Harper St., Winter Park, $5, 407-592-7835.
Plant Clinic: Orange County residents can bring their samples and plant-related questions to be answered by UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener volunteers. 9 a.m.-noon Tuesdays, UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research Education Center, 2725 Binion Road, Apopka; or 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. weekdays, UF/ IFAS Extension Orange County, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, free, 407-254-9200 or email OrangeCoMGV@ifas.ufl.edu.
Fannie’s Friends support group:
Fannie’s Friends is a virtual support group for adult daughters and granddaughters caring for those living with dementia. Sponsored by the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center. 6 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month and 1 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month. Email info@adrccares.org for link to join. 407-436-7750.
Greater Orlando Cribbage Club:
Nine games are played. Part of the American Cribbage Congress. 6:30 p.m. Thursdays through May, Elks Club, 4755 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, $13 per night, 407580-6696 or email clchasema13@ gmail.com.
TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly):
9-10 a.m. Saturdays, Eastland Baptist Church, 9000 Lake Underhill Road, Orlando, first visit free, then $5 monthly dues, 985-513-2866.
Men Only Dementia Caregiver Online Support Group:
Sponsored by Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center. 10 a.m. every third Thursday of the month on Zoom. Email info@adrccares.org or call 407-436-7750.
TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly):
Weigh-in 1-1:20 p.m. Meeting 1:30-2:30 p.m. Mondays, Zellwood Station, 2126 Spillman Drive, Zellwood, $5 monthly dues, 407-600-2321 or 407-630-3833, leave a message.
Greater Orlando Orchid Society:
6:30-9:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month, Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando, guests welcome, greaterorlandoorchidsociety.com.
Tai chi and qigong classes:
Learn how to improve wellness, range of motion, breathing capacity and many other benefits. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, Winter Park Presbyterian Church, 400 S. Lakemont Ave., Winter Park, $10 per class, info@mindandbodyexercises. com, 407-234-0119.
Tai chi and qigong classes:
Learn how to improve wellness, range of motion, breathing capacity and more. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursdays, The University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, $10/class, info@mindandbodyexercises.com, 407-234-0119.
Central Florida African Violet Society:
10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month, September through May, with informal meetings June through August, Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando, free, 407-246-4440.
TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly):
9-10 a.m. Saturdays, Eastland Baptist Church, 9000 Lake Underhill Road, Orlando, first visit free, then $5 monthly dues, 985-513-2866.
Knitting/Crochet Classes:
Free instruction. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Yarn is provided. 3:30-5 p.m. Wednesdays, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, free, email care@st.lukes.org or call 407-876-4991, Ext. 262.
Duplicate Bridge:
Intermediate bridge classes are being offered followed by an ACBL sanctioned game. 10:30 a.m. Thursdays, 11:30 a.m. Sundays, Orlando Metropolitan Bridge Center, 756 Bennett Road, Orlando, $15 includes pizza, lesson, and game, 407-895-1943 or email davidjloeb@gmail.com.
Central Florida Fruit Society:
Learn about growing and enjoying fruit in Central Florida. Discover new species and varieties of ambrosial fruits from around the world and grown locally. 6:30-8:30 p.m. the third Monday of the month, Harry P. Leu Gardens 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, free, JenC@CentralFloridaFruitSociety.org.
Central Florida Stamp Club:
Meetings include auctions and informative lectures. 6 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month,
Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, free, 407-889-0528.
‘FashionAbility’ American Sewing Guild, Orlando Chapter:
A group dedicated to the art and skill of garment sewing. All levels welcome. 10:30 a.m.-noon the fourth Thursday of October, January, April, and July, The Sewing Studio, 9605 U.S. Highway 17-92, Maitland, first two visits are free, then ASG membership is required, 407-697-0882.
TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly):
7 p.m. Thursdays, Delaney Street Baptist Church, 1919 Delaney Ave., Orlando, first visit is free, 407-898-6215.
Tai Chi for Health:
Featuring simple Tai Chi forms and qi gong (energy work). 9-10 a.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 1st Unitarian Church of Orlando, 1901 E. Robinson St., Orlando, $5 facility fee donation requested but not required, 407-701-3357.
Male Alzheimer’s caregivers group:
The Men’s Breakfast Club is an informal and unstructured gathering of male caregivers. Sponsored by the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center. 10 a.m. the first Wednesday of the month, Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, 701 E. State Road 434, Winter Springs, free, buy your own food, adrccares. org/adrc-events/ or 407-436-7750.
United States Submarine Veterans, Central Florida Chapter:
Open to all Navy personnel and veterans who are qualified in submarines. Guests are welcome at meetings. Meetings are held both in person or Zoom. 7 p.m. the fourth Thursday of every month, Casselberry Veterans Club, 200 Concord Drive, Casselberry, 407-920-9347 or email jmack349@gmail.com.
PASOS (Parents and Spouses of Suicide) Grief Support Group:
A program of the nonprofit First Nature Foundation offers a virtual Zoom meeting twice monthly the first and third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The group is facilitated by a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with grief counseling experience. If you are interested in participating as a parent or spouse of suicide, email kerul@ firstnaturefoundation.org. There is no charge to join. Donations are not required but are welcome.
Joseph Rassel of the Sentinel staff compiled this report. To submit an item, email communityevents@orlandosentinel.com.