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, through 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.
Ballroom and Social Dancing:
For seniors and all dancers. 6 p.m. Fridays, Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, $6, 407-3395393.
AARP Winter Park Chapter 1047:
Edith Gendron, chief of operations for Alzheimer’s Resource Center, will be the guest speaker. There will be refreshments after the meeting. 1:30 p.m. Feb. 21, Redeemer Lutheran Church, 5431 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, free, 407-671-8393.
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.
Philosophy Discussion Group:
The group meets to discuss various topics. Bring topics and questions. 2 p.m. Feb. 21, University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. To attend, email your full name to info@ uclubwp.org. Free.
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, 407-2549200.
Raised Bed Vegetable Gardening:
Join recently retired Leu Gardens’ Executive Director, Robert Bowden, as he helps you discover the joys of growing vegetables and herbs in raised beds. Advance registration required. 6:308:30 p.m. Feb 23, Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, $17 for member, $22 for nonmembers, leugardens. org, 407-246-2620.
“Is There Human Slavery in Central Florida? Are You An Abolitionist at Heart?” lecture:
Presented by the University Club of Winter Park. Tomas Lares, president of Florida Abolitionist, a 501(3)(c) organization, will speak about his 20 years of experience rescuing victims in Central Florida. 3 p.m. Feb. 23, University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. To attend this in-person event, email your full name to info@uclubwp.org. Free.
Nature and Photography Hike:
Beth Jackson, Orange County Green PLACE manager and naturalist, and Lee Ann Posavad, wildlife photographer and Orange Audubon volunteer, will co-lead this hike. Bring binoculars and cameras. Leisurely walk will focus on native species identification and nature photography. Open to all ages and hiking experience levels. Reservations required. 9-11:30 a.m. Feb. 25, Pine Lily Preserve, 1401 S County Road 13, Orlando, free, 407-836-1481 or email GreenPLACE@ocfl.net.
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 firstcome, 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.
Sailing lessons: Learn basic sailing skills and terminology from the instructors of the Central Florida Community Sailing Program during this six-day class. The course consists of three shore lessons at the Winter Park Library from 6-8 p.m. Mondays and three water classes on Lake Baldwin from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. Minimum age is 16, parents must be present for the
Saturday water sessions on Lake Baldwin. Reservations required. First session is Feb. 27. $200 plus $15 for the Learn Right Sailing textbook. thesailingclub.us/classes, 407-645-1892.
Documentary Cinema:
Presented by the University Club of Winter Park. “The Wheelchair President,” examining President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s wartime leadership and how his health and marriage influenced his decision-making. 10 a.m. Feb. 27, University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. To attend, email your full name to info@uclubwp. org. Free.
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.
Florida Lifestyles - Locally Grown in Orange County:
Learn how to incorporate healthy habits into your local lifestyle. Presented by Orange County Extension Agents, this 4-part series will focus on a different topic each week such as food and nutrition, fitness and finance. Advance registration required. 9-10:30 a.m. Wednesdays, March 1-22, Orange County University of Florida IFAS Extension, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $30, 407-254-9200, ocextension. eventbrite.com.
Orange County Retired Educators Association:
Martie Salt, former WFTV news anchor and journalist will be the guest speaker. Anyone who has worked in education is invited. Masks are optional and refreshments will be provided. Social time will begin at 10 a.m. Meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. March 2, Church on the Drive, 1914 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, free, ocreafl. org or 407-843-6909.
African Violet Display and Plant Sale:
Presented by the Central Florida African Violet Society. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 3-4, Beardall Senior Center, 800 S. Delaney Ave., Orlando, free, email laprice41@yahoo. com.
Touch-a-Truck: An interactive hands-on experience where children can learn about trucks and vehicles, honk their horns and interact with the drivers. Featured vehicles will include a fire truck, police vehicles, construction trucks and offroad vehicles. Noon-3 p.m. (No honking hour is from 2-3 p.m.) March 4, Knights Plaza at Addition Financial Arena on the campus of the University of Central Florida, free, KnightsPlaza.com.
Garden Festival and Plant Sale:
Presented by UF/IFAS Extension Orange County Master Gardener Volunteers. Featuring more than 40 plant, artisan and craft vendors plus educational sessions, workshops and demonstrations, a kid zone, garden tours and food trucks. At 11 a.m., keynote speaker, UF/IFAS Emeritus Extension Agent Tom MacCubbin will take the stage to talk about “Bulbs for Florida Landscapes.” 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. March 4, Orange County University of Florida IFAS Extension, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $30, 407254-9200.
Literary luncheon: Hosted by the Orlando/Winter
Park Branch of American Association of University Women. Award-winning journalist Geri Throne will discuss her book,“Secret Battles, A Novel,” set in World War II America. Reservation deadline is Feb. 24. Proceeds benefit the AAUW Scholarship Fund awarded to local students. 11 a.m. March 4, University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, $55 includes lunch and silent auction, tomsuet@aol. com or 407-773-9230.
Community Sailing Day:
Presented by the Central Florida Community Sailing Program and The Sailing Club. Meet members, learn what it takes to sail and experience the thrill and excitement of sailing first hand with one of the members. For ages 16 and older. 1-4 p.m. March 5, Lake Baldwin in Winter Park, free. Reserve a spot at thesailingclub.us. Details: 407-698-8599.
Coin Show: Sponsored by Central Florida Coin Club. More than 30 coin dealers will have high quality coins for the beginner to advanced collectors. Children get a free coin. A grading company will be on the premises and accepting submissions. Children ages 12 or younger will receive a free coin. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. March 5, Venue on the Lake: The Maitland Civic Center, 641 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland, admission is free, 407-657-6440 or cfccbourse@hotmail.com.
Spring Vegetable Gardening:
Presented by Orange County Extension Agent Calvin Gardner, this in-person class will cover vegetables that can be planted during Florida’s spring season, specifically cucurbits, nightshades, legumes,
and crucifers. Advance registration required. 10-11:30 a.m. March 9, Orange County University of Florida IFAS Extension, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $5, 407-254-9200, ocextension.eventbrite.com.
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 also 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 free, cfks.org, 407-419-8517.
gARTening Series - Pressed Flower Art:
Join Orange County Extension Agent Clarissa Chairez to learn how to preserve floral material, press flowers, and how to arrange material in a decorative design. Attendees will make their own unique pressed flower art to take home. Advance registration required. 2-3 p.m. or 6-7 p.m. March 10, Orange County University of Florida IFAS Extension, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $10 fee includes frame, $5 fee without frame, 407-254-9200, ocextension. eventbrite.com.
Job Strategies for Mature Workers:
Explore strategies older job seekers can implement to help expedite a job search and find gainful and meaningful employment. Learn strategies, resources and tips to age-proof your resume. 1 p.m. March 15, North Orange branch of the Orange County Library System, 1211 E. Semoran Blvd., Apopka, free, 407-835-7323.
West African Kora: Sean Gaskell will give a performance on the kora, an ancient 21-stringed harp from West Africa. Gaskell’s performance will feature traditional songs and some of his own personal compositions. 11 a.m. March 17, Chickasaw branch of the Orange County Library System, 870 N. Chickasaw Trail, Orlando, free, 407-835-7323.
Intermediate Bird Identification:
Sponsored by Orange Audubon Society. Led by Bob Sanders, participants will learn identification tips and natural history information. Advance registration required. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. March 18 and 25, Orlando Wetlands Park, 25155 Wheeler Road, Christmas, $50 for Audubon members and $65 for nonmembers, email mwilliams@cfl. rr.com, 407-718-1977.
Orlando Hadassah annual Bunny Rosen Women’s Heart Health Luncheon and Fashion Show:
Featuring clothing by Alembika, Tel Aviv, Israel. Accessories by Through the Looking Glass, Winter Park. Proceeds benefit Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America Inc. Reservations required. 11:30 a.m. March 19, Alfond Inn, 300 E. New England Ave., Winter Park, $60 includes valet parking, email orlando@hadassah.org.
West African Kora: Sean Gaskell will give a performance on the kora, an ancient 21-stringed harp from West Africa. Gaskell’s performance will feature traditional songs and some of his own personal compositions. 2 p.m. March 19, Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, free, 407-835-7323.
Central Florida 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. March 22, Central Florida Fair Expo Park, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, free, CFEC.org/job-fairs, 407-834-4022.
Apopka Art and Foliage Festival:
The GFWC Apopka Woman’s Club 61st annual event will showcase the work of juried artisans and crafters, and top foliage growers from Central Florida. There will be music, food, and a kid zone. All proceeds from the festival are given back to the community through donations and scholarships. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. April 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 30, Kit Land Nelson Park, 35 S. Park Ave., Apopka, admission is free, parking is $5, apopkaartandfoliagefestival. org, 407-808-1677.
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/.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s Second Annual Ultimate Garden Party:
Presented by The Glenda G. Morgan Charitable Foundation. An afternoon filled with entertainment, hors d’oeuvres and live music. Test your casino skills while enjoying fancy cocktails at the libations lounge and shop the newest collections from favorite vendors in the Trunk Show. All proceeds raised fund Second Harvest’s hunger relief efforts, which include distributing food for 300,000 meals a day across Orange, Osceola, Lake, Marion, Seminole, Volusia and Brevard counties. 1-5 p.m. May 20, Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, 14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando, $150-$250, UltimateGardenParty.org.
TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly):
Weigh-in 9-9:30 a.m. Meeting 9:30-10:15 a.m. Thursdays, Asbury Methodist Church, 220 Horatio Ave., Maitland, first visit free, then $5 monthly dues, 407-376-7512.
TOPS Club Inc. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly):
7-8 p.m. Mondays, University Seventh-day Adventist Church 9191 University Blvd., Orlando, first visit free, then $5 monthly dues, 407-277-7946.
Clog Dancing for All Ages: The Orlando Cloggers will offer new beginner clogging classes. Lessons progress through 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 many other benefits. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursdays, The University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, $10 per class, info@ mindandbodyexercises.com, 407234-0119.
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 specifically to the art and skill of garment sewing. All levels welcome. 10:30 a.m.-noon the fourth Thursday of the months 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.