By The Numbers

1.5 million The average number of riders, per year, on the I-Ride Trolley, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. Consisting of an 18-trolley fleet, 100 stops and two route lines, it has extended its service area to a 14-mile route where trolleys run every day between 8 a.m. and 10:30 p.m.

2,950 The length, in feet, of SeaWorld Orlando’s newest roller coaster, Pipeline: The Surf Coaster. The ride reaches speeds of 60 mph and heights of 110 feet.

5th Orlando’s ranking in the “housing heat index” for the top 50 large metro areas, according to Bankrate. Rankings were based on appreciation of home values, employment levels, job growth, population trends, homes listed for sale and typical selling times.

$1,000,000 The amount of grant money Wawa recently pledged to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida toward a new program, “Fly Beyond,” which aims to reach more than 53,000 households experiencing food insecurity over a 12-month period through two of the food bank’s childhood hunger prevention initiatives: the School Partnerships and Summer Food Service programs.

37,350 The size, in square feet, of Brightline’s new train station located next to Terminal C in Orlando International Airport. Later this summer, Brightline will offer high-speed train service between Orlando and Miami. Service will include 16 daily round trips with hourly departures.

67,241 The approximate number of attendees at this year’s 32nd Annual Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, held in May. Over 1,600 artists traveled from around the world to perform at one of the many venues in Loch Haven Park and partner venues. The 14-day immersive cultural experience featured over 120 shows spanning a variety of genres.

HIT

This fall, the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management will offer a bachelor’s degree in theme park and attraction management. Initially, the program will be taught in a hybrid modality with a mix of in-person and online coursework and will offer students a specialized understanding of the complex global tourism industry. UCF is the only institution in Florida to offer a management-focused, undergraduate degree of its kind.

Broccoli, cauliflower and curry lentil soup were recently added to the foods packaged at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida as part of the Medically Tailored Meal Program aimed to help feed patients with chronic kidney disease at no cost. The new program was funded by a grant from the Davita Giving Foundation.

Last month saw the grand opening of the City Beautiful’s newest park, The Grove. The 66-acre park in the Packing District features biking and walking trails and a large outdoor pavilion.

MISS

A recent Orange County community crime survey revealed that residents feel less safe in recent years. Many residents believe that violent crime has become more of an issue, and 70% of respondents want to increase the amount of law enforcement in their communities—up from 59% in 2021.

The Florida Department of Children and Families says that there have been 36 reported child drownings so far this year, an increase from 28 at this time last year.

After only 18 months since its opening, Disney recently announced that its most immersive experience—Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser—will take its last voyage Sept. 28-30.

Datebook

Featured Event: EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL   

July 27 to Nov. 18

Visitors to the park will be able to taste their way across six continents, sampling authentic global cuisine and beverages. The annual event also features culinary demonstrations and beverage seminars, as well as fun activities for the whole family. The “Eat to the Beat” concert series also returns with star-studded performances taking place Fridays through Mondays, and an impressive lineup of local bands appearing Tuesdays through Thursdays.

Admission to the festival is included with admission. Valid admission and theme park reservation for same park on same date required.

ROY WOOD JR.

July 7-8

Widely known for his work as a correspondent on The Daily Show, the popular comedian and actor recently headlined this year’s White House correspondents’ dinner. For audiences 21 and older, Friday: 7:30 p.m., Saturday: 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., Orlando Improv, tickets from $32.

DREAMGIRLS

July 7-Aug. 6

This musical tells the tale of three friends who embark on a roller coaster through the world of show business as they climb the ranks of the music industry in the ’60s and ’70s. It features many hit songs, such as “And I Am Telling You, I Am Not Going.” Showtimes vary, Garden Theatre, Winter Garden, ticket prices range from $30-$75.

STAIND

July 14

The renowned rock band is in town following the release of its latest single, “Lowest in Me” from its upcoming album, Confessions of the Fallen. This marks the first new studio album from the band since 2011. 8 p.m., Hard Rock Live Orlando, tickets from $57.50 .

ATENCIÓN ATENCIÓN

July 15

The Puerto Rican children’s music project and television program, Atención Atención, integrates play and dance in preschool education to teach values through music. 5 p.m., Walt Disney Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, tickets from $29.50.

SAM SMITH

July 26

This multi-platinum, Grammy- and Oscar-winning artist/songwriter brings the “Gloria” tour to town for one night, featuring special guest Jessie Reyez, who is featured on Smith’s latest album. 7 p.m., Amway Center, tickets from $31.

REPTICON

July 29-30

The popular event is back with exotic reptiles, reptile pets, supplies, feeders, cages and merchandise. Saturday: 9-4 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Central Florida Fairgrounds, Main Building Halls A, B & C, tickets from $10 for adults, $6 for children ages 5-12, ages 4 and under are free.