What’s happening

Friendship Force of Greater Orlando: The presentation will be “Who We Were.” Club members will be sharing and learning about each other utilizing photos from their past including our past travel adventures. 3-5 p.m. today, Maitland Public Library, 501 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland, free, 407-257-8178.

History Group: Presented by the University Club of Winter Park. Ellen Hurwitz, President Emeritus of the American University of Central Asia and historian of Russian history will present “The Grand Prince Vladimir Sviatoslavich, Saintly Prince in Multicultural Times.” 10 a.m. April 17, University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. To attend this event, email your full name to info@ uclubwp.org. Free.

Guided Garden Tour: See unique plants in the UF/IFAS Extension Orange County Exploration Gardens’ 12 themed gardens and get ideas for your landscape. Learn about Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles, smart irrigation, vegetable gardening, and flower species to attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Advance registration required. 10-11:30 a.m. April 18, UF/IFAS Extension Orange County, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $5, ocextension.eventbrite.com, 407-254-9200.

Matinee Movie: Presented by the University Club of Winter Park. See “La La Land” (2016) an American romantic musical film starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. 3 p.m. April 18, University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. To attend, email your full name to info@uclubwp.org, free.

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.-4 p.m. April 18; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. May 16; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 20, 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. April 18, University Club of Winter Park, 841 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. To attend, email your full name to info@ uclubwp.org. Free.

The Truth About Aging In Place: Join Beth Logullo and the Great Transitions Senior Living Series team for a discussion about the right option for you. Reservations required. 9:30 a.m. April 19, Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, 151 W. Lyman Ave., Winter Park, free, 407473-1153.

Corks & Forks…and all that Jazz!: Attendees will enjoy samples of signature dishes from some of the finest local chefs and restaurants along with fine wines, spirits, and beer from favorite local and national brands. All proceeds benefit Venue on Lake Lily. 6-9 p.m. April 20, Venue on Lake Lily, 641 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland, $65 general admission, $125 VIP, corksandforksmaitland.com.

Orange Audubon Society: Ken Meyer, Executive Director at the nonprofit Avian Research and Conservation Institute in Gainesville, will present the program “Swallow-tailed Kites and Short-tailed Hawks.” Meyer will share current knowledge of biology of these two rare raptors. 7 p.m. April 20, Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, free, 407-637-2525.

2023 Youth, Novice and Advanced/Professional Photography Contest: The Orange Audubon Society is accepting entries for its 35th annual Kit and Sidney Chertok Florida Native Nature Photography Contest. There are three contest divisions. Youth, for photographers age 17 or younger; Novice, for new and less experienced photo hobbyists; and advanced amateur/professional, for experienced photographers who have practiced and honed their skills over time. Participants should photograph Florida native plants, animals, landscapes and the many habitats of Florida. Entries cannot show humans, human-made structures or artifacts, or discernible fauna or flora non-native to Florida. For contest rules visit orangeaudubonfl.org. The deadline for entries is April 20. Cash awards will be announced June 15. Cost: $5 per image for Audubon members, $10 per image for nonmembers. Details and entry forms: 407-718-1977.

Worry-Free Flowers for Busy People: Learn about the many selections to choose from such as climbers, bedding plants that are grown for their foliage and plants for the shade. Advance registration required. 6:30-8:30 p.m. April 20, Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, $15 for garden members, $20 for nonmembers, leugardens. org, 407-246-2620.

DogFest Orlando: A

community event benefiting Canine Companions for Independence. Gather friends, family, and dogs to celebrate the mission of Canine Companions. There will be speakers, dog demonstrations, music and vendors. All leashed, vaccinated dogs are welcome. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. April 22, Central Park, 150 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, admission is free, participants may register in advance and raise pledges, canine.org/dogfestorlando, 407-522-3300.

Ocoee Fire Department to Host Open House: Fire Station 25 will be open to the public and give residents the opportunity to tour the fire station, go inside different vehicles on display and see other fire equipment. Activities include music, free food and giveaways. There will be face painting, a bounce house, door prizes and blood pressure checks. Children will get a chance to hold a fire hose with a firefighter and spray jets of water. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 22, Fire Station 25, 563 S. Bluford Ave., Ocoee, free, 407-905-3140.

Enchantment Ball Daddy-Daughter Dance: Dads will have the opportunity to treat their daughters to a magical night with their favorite princesses, dancing, carriage rides and more. Proceeds will benefit children being cared for at AdventHealth for Children located in the Walt Disney Pavilion. 4-8 p.m. April 22, World Center Marriott Orlando, 8701 World Center Drive, Orlando, $150 per guest, $300 per pair includes the evening’s events and dinner, EnchantmentBall.com.

The Military Officers Association of America, Central Florida Chapter: Annual JROTC Awards luncheon.

Seven “Cadet of the Year” graduating seniors from the 32 JROTC units in Central Florida have been selected and will receive merit scholarships. All active, retired and veteran officers and guests from the six military services are welcome. 11:30 a.m. April 22, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando East-UCF Area, 12125 High Tech Ave, Orlando, $24 includes lunch. RSVP to lorraineholland@hotmail.com or call 407-221-1388.

Free Shredding Event: Sponsored by the Orange Blossom Trail Development Board. Limit your shredding to two copy paper size boxes. Noon-2 p.m. April 22, South Trail branch of the Orange County Library System, 4600 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, free, ocls.info, 407-835-7323.

Spring Floral Japanese Flower Arrangement: Make a unique Spring Ikebana arrangement. Participants need to bring branch cutters or scissors. A floral vase and plant materials will be provided with a separate $10 materials fee paid in cash directly to the instructor in the class. Advance registration required. 10 a.m.-noon April 23, Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, $25 for garden members, $30 for nonmembers, leugardens.org, 407-246-2620.

Local Author Festival: Authors from a variety of genres will share their experiences and books. Each author will have books available for purchase and signing. Advance registration recommended. 2-4 p.m. April 23, Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, free, ocls.info, 407-835-7323.

Florida Lawn Care: Presented by Orange County Extension Agent Calvin Gardner, this in-person class will provide suggestions on ways to keep Florida lawns healthy and well maintained through the summer. Advance registration required. 10-11:30 a.m. April 26, UF/IFAS Extension Orange County, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, $5, ocextension.eventbrite.com, 407-254-9200.

Taste of Baldwin Park — Food, Wine & Music: 6-10 p.m. April 27, Lake Baldwin Park Fountain, 4990 New Broad St., Orlando, $50-$300, 407-896-7356, events@bebestevent.com.

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.-4 p.m. April 27, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. May 25; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 22, Renaissance Senior Center, 3800 S. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, $20 for AARP members, $25 for nonmembers, 407-961-1473.

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.

Paws for Peace Walk: The

event is a leisurely stroll for families, friends and their pets. This year’s theme is “4 Paws, 2 Feet, 1 Team” in which dressing your dog in their favorite sports/team attire is encouraged. Participants walk to raise awareness about the impact of domestic abuse on pets and their owners. All proceeds will fund veterinary and kennel services for survivors’ pets staying in the shortterm emergency housing at Harbor House. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Walk begins at 9 a.m. April 29, Blue Jacket Park, 2501 General Rees Ave., Winter Park, a $35 donation includes a free T-shirt and doggie bandanna, register at harborhousefl.com/paws.

Spring Luncheon, Auction, and Fashion Show: Sponsored by the Maitland Woman’s Club, the annual event includes a luncheon; fashions by J.Jill and Maison Baby & Kids of Winter Park, a silent auction and chance by ticket auction. All proceeds benefit nonprofits in the Maitland area. Reservation deadline is April 20. 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. April 29, Venue on the Lake - The Maitland Civic Center, 641 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland, $40, 321-303-1404.

Central Florida Ballet Presents “Alice in Wonderland”: The Central Florida Ballet will perform scenes from their presentation of “Alice in Wonderland.” Advance registration recommended. 3 p.m. April 29, Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, free, ocls. info, 407-835-7323.

Gardening for Native Pollinators and Honey Bee Nutrition: Learn about plants that are larval food sources for some of our larger colorful native butterflies, and plants to keep them around drinking nectar when they are adults. Discover how to make your own native bee nests and how to garden for honey bees. Explore how you can landscape to attract hummingbirds to visit your garden as they migrate through Central Florida. Advance registration required. 1:30-3 p.m. April 29, Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, $15 for garden members, $20 for nonmembers, leugardens.org, 407-246-2620.

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 April 29, UF/IFAS Extension Orange County, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, free, 407-254-9200.

Annual “Welcome to the Woods” event: Participants will learn to fish in Bear Pond, hike along the National Florida Scenic Trail, take a covered trailer ride to Blackwater Creek, learn safe boating techniques and take a short canoe trip along the creek. There will be wildlife educational exhibits, program on prescribed fire, and a station to shoot a bow and arrow. Wear clothing for hiking and bring bug spray, sun block, snacks and water. Sponsored by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Forest Service. Advance registration required. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. April 29, Seminole Forest Wildlife Management Area, State Road 46, Sorrento, free, 352-732-1225.

Proper Pruning Techniques: Join Robert Bowden, a gardener of more than 50 years, as he describes a variety of pruning tools and how to use them on an assortment of trees and shrubs. Bring hand pruners if you have them. Advance registration required. 9:30-11:30 a.m. April 29, Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, $15 for garden members, $20 for nonmembers, leugardens.org, 407-246-2620.

Medication and Dementia: Presented by the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center. A onehour discussion of the common medications used to treat various types of dementias. Also updates on newer medications provisionally approved to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Advance registration required. 10 a.m. May 1, Center for Independent Living, 720 N. Denning Drive, Winter Park, free, 407-436-7750 or email info@ADRCcares.org.

WPPL Author Salon Series: Rollins Distinguished Cornell Professor and Arthur Vining Davis Fellow Dr. Mike Gunter will talk about climate change threats and solutions, from here in Florida to throughout the U.S. 6:30 p.m. May 1, Winter Park Public Library, 1052 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, free, 407-623-3300, winterparklibrary.org.

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center - Embrace the Moment Gala 2023: Celebrate the Kentucky Derby at a fundraising gala in support of ADRC’s mission to empower caregivers of those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Hosted by Orlando Sentinel columnist Scott Maxwell. Guest speaker will be Dr. Steven R. Smith, chief scientific officer and senior vice president of AdventHealth. 6-9 p.m. May 4, The Alfond Inn at Rollins College, 300 E. New England Ave., Winter Park, $200, 407-436-7750.

Orange County Retired Educators Association: This is the group’s end of the year catered luncheon. Anyone who has worked in education is invited. Reservation deadline is April 27. 11:30 a.m. May 4, Church on the Drive, 1914 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, $14, ocreafl.org or 407-843-6909.

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/.

Doll show and sale: The Greater Orlando Doll Club’s 35th annual event will include antique, modern, artist and vintage dolls and bears as well as supplies, books and fabrics. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. May 6, Venue on the Lake - The Maitland Civic Center, 641 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland, $5 for adults, 407-484-6912.

Orlando Area Historical Rose Society: Andrian Rodriquez, President of Tropical Rose Society, Miami, will share his success in growing roses in pots. Guests are welcome. 2:30 p.m. May 7, Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando, free, 407-497-1639.

Coin Show: Sponsored by Central Florida Coin Club. More than 30 coin dealers will have high quality coins for the beginner to advanced collectors. A grading company will be on the premises and accepting submissions. Children ages 12 or younger will receive a free coin. 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. May 7, Venue on the Lake - The Maitland Civic Center, 641 S. Maitland Ave., Maitland, admission is free, 407-657-6440 or cfccbourse@hotmail.com.

Hearts Against Hunger 5K: In recognition of National Hunger Awareness Day run, walk, or stroll through Belle Isle and over Lake Conway. Complimentary event T-shirt, prizes, medals, post-race party and more. For all ages and abilities. 7:30 a.m. registration, 8 a.m. 5K May 13, 5903 Randolph Ave., Belle Isle, $30, 407-697-2152, servantsheartministry.org/5K.

Unleashed, Uncorked, Unframed Gala: An evening with wines, gourmet cuisine, live and silent auctions, and a private art sale. All proceeds benefit Franklin’s Friends and local animal welfare. WESH 2 News anchors Jason Guy and Michelle Imperato will emcee. Cocktail attire suggested. 6-10 p.m. May 20, Winter Park Events Center, 1050 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, $200, email franklinsfriends@gmail.com, 407-461-1768.

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 enough 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.

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.-noon May 22-23; 5-8 p.m. June 19-20, Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden, $20 for AARP members, $25 for nonmembers, 407-656-4155.

Music in the Library: Ann Yao will perform cutting-edge interpretations of traditional material on the Guzheng, a five-foot long horizontal plucked zither that typically has 21 strings, one of China’s most ancient instruments. 11 a.m. May 26, Chickasaw branch of the Orange County Library System, 870 N. Chickasaw Trail, Orlando, free, 407-835-7323.

Dementia Sensitivity: Increase your awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias by learning about early signs and symptoms, communication techniques, and resources to help individuals and their families. Noon May 31, Eatonville branch of the Orange County Library System, 200 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville, free, 407-835-7323.

Orlando Camera Club: Monthly meetings held on Zoom and in-person. 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of each month, Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, free, orlandocameraclub.com.

Orlando Chapter of the Florida Writers Association: 6:45-8:45 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month, Winter Park Library, 1052 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, free, 407-928-6215, email DrWhoAR@hotmail.com.

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.

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.

Ballroom and Social Dancing: For seniors and all dancers. 6 p.m. Fridays, Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex, 99 E. Marks St., Orlando, $6, 407-339-5393.

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.

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.

Joseph Rassel of the Sentinel staff compiled this report. To submit an item, email communityevents@orlandosentinel.com.