Cover Story
Every festival happening in Orlando this spring
Our guide to the best reasons to leave the house between now and May 24
Ex-Replacements guitarist Tommy Stinson brings Cowboys in the Campfire project to Park Ave CDs
Firebrand garage punk Tommy Stinson – he of both Replacements AND Guns N’ Roses ill-repute – rolled through the City Beautiful last year with his culty early-’90s project Bash & Pop, amply proving that he had lost none of the grit that made him such a unique figure in the American alternative rock landscape. Something…
Sample the best in brown liquor at Orlando Whiskey Fest
Ready to give up your passion for anything but brown liquor, but don’t want people to think you’re low-class? Dress up for a whiskey festival at a luxury car dealership. The Orlando Whiskey Festival lets you sample fine scotch and bourbon in the fancy confines of a Mercedes-Benz dealership. And we are duty-bound to say…
Color Me Wet, the biggest LGBTQ paint party tour, hits Parliament House for spring break this weekend
One of the biggest lesbian paint parties on the East Coast descends on Parliament House this weekend. Color Me Wet features gorgeous dancers, celebrity DJs and entertainers, drag shows, and a whole lot of colored paint flying everywhere. Book a hotel room onsite for the full experience. 10 p.m. Saturday; Parliament House, 410 N. Orange…
Do the Harlem Shake with Baauer at Gilt Nightclub
Hey, remember the Harlem Shake? Not the actual dance, but that viral video trend from 2013 that inspired managers across the country to force employees to pretend to like each other long enough to dance unenthusiastically for the sake of “team-building.” Philadelphia DJ Baauer does, since his song was used in every single one of…
St. Pete’s Permanent Makeup headline at Odd Jobs this week
St. Petersburg’s Permanent Makeup have long been standard-bearers for the independent music ethos in South Florida – and for that matter, the state in general – balancing aesthetics and activism in their music and business practices: championing DIY spaces, inclusivity, all-ages shows and progressive thinking in general. The band recently released their new album, Scrape,…
Enzian screens classic Werner Herzog fever dream ‘Fitzcarraldo’ this weekend
Fitzcarraldo is, if you’ll overlook the coinage, the Herzog-iest of all Werner Herzog’s films. It stars Klaus Kinski – the Herzog-iest of actors – as an Irish rubber planter in Amazonian Peru, whose doomed attempt to make enough money to build an opera house in the jungle finds him (actually, hundreds of indigenous workers) hauling…
Snag some landscaping essentials at Leu Gardens’ annual plant sale this weekend
Mother Nature knows best, and with that, she knows that it’s for the best if you take a stroll around this 50-acre botanical oasis during their annual plant sale. Their goal, to inspire visitors to appreciate and understand plants, is simple. But their annual sale – featuring more than 50 growers and vendors with displays…
Milk District sets up the barricades for Rockin’ Robinson music fest this Saturday
The Milk District became an official Main Street District last year, and for those wondering what that actually means, look no further than this weekend’s Rockin’ Robinson festival. Using the clout of the Main Street program, the organizers were able to pull a permit to close down a stretch of Robinson Street for a street…
Bull & Bush snags comedian Shane Torres for post-Indie Comedy Fest hangover
Feeling blue after the end of last week’s Orlando Indie Comedy Fest? The laughs don’t have to end. This week, the Bull & Bush snags national comedian Shane Torres for an intimate set on the Matt Gersting Stage. You may have seen him on Conan or Comedy Bang Bang, but you’re more likely to have…
‘Drag Race’ winner Bianca Del Rio brings one-woman show to Plaza Live
If you can’t stand being the target of a walking rolodex of hate, maybe don’t come to see Bianca Del Rio. If you can, then haul your hog body to the “Blame It on Bianca” show this week at the Plaza Live. The drag queen alter ego of New Orleans comic Roy Haylock, this hateful…
Disney unveils new Google Street View for theme parks and properties
Since Disney has consistently been raising ticket prices, there is now a much cheaper and lamer way to tour their resorts. Today, Disney released a new version of Google Street allowing virtual guests to “walk” around the majority of the parks. Unfortunately, it’s a little clunky, crashes sometimes, has limited attractions and doesn’t really let…
FEMA hotel vouchers for Hurricane Irma evacuees ends this weekend
A FEMA hotel voucher program for Hurricane Irma evacuees in Florida is ending Saturday, March 10. The Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program pays for temporary emergency sheltering in hotel rooms for eligible survivors for a limited period of time. The program was activated after Gov. Rick Scott made a disaster declaration on Sept. 10, the…
Local celebs gather to perform lip sync routines for charity at SAK
“It’s for a good cause” isn’t typically a tempting reason to buy a ticket, but how about “It’s for a good cause and it’s going to be goddamn hilarious”? This celebrity lip-sync battle benefiting the American Lung Association has a stacked lineup, with performances by the loquacious Steve Gunter (owner of the Dubsdread Tap Room),…
UCF ‘championship’ license plates are a little closer to becoming an actual thing
As if the banners and a “championship parade” weren’t enough, University of Central Florida football fans may soon have license plates to further commemorate their self-proclaimed national championship season. The license plate features the Knights’ logo and says “Undefeated Champions,” which is something of a comedown from what the plates were reportedly supposed to say:…
Lindsey Stirling and Evanescence announce Central Florida show
Electronic violinist Lindsey Stirling and dark rock band Evanescence have announced a surprising co-headlining amphitheater tour set for this summer. The pairing plans a North American run of dates where each will play full sets backed by an orchestra. Though Orlando didn’t get a date on this tour, nearby Tampa did. The seeds for this…
New Irish bar and restaurant planned for Park Ave in Winter Park
A new Irish watering hole and restaurant may be moving into the former LaBella Intimates spot at 510 S. Park Avenue in Winter Park. According to The Daily City, Tampa-based chain Irish 31 filed a request with the City of Winter Park’s Planning and Zoning Board in an attempt to secure a liquor license. The franchise…
Latin star Chayanne to play Orlando in October
Puerto Rican pop royalty Chayanne has ended two years of relative silence on the performing front with the announcement of his “Desde El Alma” tour set for later this year. Luckily for stateside fans, this tour will include a clutch of North American dates, including an arena show in Orlando! The singer came to fame…
Florida is the second worst state in the country for pedestrian deaths, says study
It’s not easy being a pedestrian in Florida. A lack of proper bike lanes, crosswalks and sidewalks has made it one of the most dangerous states in the country to get around without a car. According to a report published by Governors Highway Safety Association, Florida ranks as the second worst state in the country for…
Orlando lawmaker proposes $1 million for Pulse memorial in Stoneman Douglas bill
Orlando Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith has filed an amendment to bring $1 million in state funding for the Pulse memorial after state lawmakers proposed the same amount for a memorial at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The $1 million appropriation for the Parkland high school is included in a larger bill from the Florida Legislature…
Allowing Orange County school officers to carry assault rifles is a terrible idea
Today, Orange County commissioners will vote on a measure that would essentially militarize our public schools. This afternoon, Orange County commissioners will decide if it’s a good idea to allow public school resource officers to carry a $1,600 military-grade assault rifle called an M4. Besides already having an extra deputy stationed at every county school…
Miami Dolphins owner bans kneeling during national anthem, promptly takes it back
Stephen Ross, owner of the Miami Dolphins, says his players won’t be allowed to kneel for the national anthem during the 2018 season, even if it’s their constitutional right. “All our players will be standing,” Ross told the New York Daily News on Monday. Ross – an out-of-touch, 77-year-old Manhattan real-estate tycoon – told the…
Just an alligator strolling through a strip mall in Flagler Beach
Here in Florida, if you look hard enough, you can pretty much find a gator just about anywhere. However, finding one at a strip mall isn’t that common. That’s exactly what happened Monday morning when Denise Nichols-Gearhardt spotted a gator taking a stroll by the Junque in the Trunk antiques store in Flagler Beach. “Just…
Florida lawmakers pass union-busting education bill
More sweeping changes are headed toward Florida’s public schools, including the use of sales-tax credits to help students attend private schools. In a 20-17 vote Monday, the Senate backed a bill (HB 7055) that has been a top priority of House Speaker Richard Corcoran, R-Land O’ Lakes, and includes dozens of changes for the state’s…
Florida Senate approves gun restrictions and arming certain school officials
After two weeks of emotionally charged testimony and raw debate, the Florida Senate on Monday narrowly approved a sweeping measure addressing mental health, school safety and guns in response to last month’s mass shooting at a Broward County high school that left 17 people —- including 14 students —- dead. The 20-18 vote came after…
Bill expanding benefits to first responders with PTSD heads to Rick Scott
Firefighters, police officers and EMTs who cannot work due to job-related post-traumatic stress disorder could qualify for expanded benefits under a bill heading to Gov. Rick Scott. The House unanimously approved the measure (SB 376) Monday, two days after the Senate passed it. Scott is expected to sign the bill, spearheaded by Sen. Lauren Book,…
Lionsgate hopes to be the next Universal Studios, plans theme parks and attractions around the world
After a failed theme park project just outside of Atlanta, it now looks like Lionsgate is moving forward with another outdoor theme park project, this time in South Korea. The new park will join Jeju Shinhwa World, a more than 600-acre resort that’s currently home to one other theme park and multiple hotels and other…
There’s a good chance ‘Stranger Things’ is coming to Halloween Horror Nights 28
Spring isn’t even past yet, as this past weekend’s chilly weather reminded us, but Halloween plans are well underway at the area’s theme parks, including plans for Halloween Horror Nights. The annual special event began in 1991 and is now the largest Halloween event in the nation, attracting tens of thousands of horror fans. This year’s event…
Mennello Museum of American Art receives largest ever donation of $8.75 million
Last weekend the Mennello Museum of American Art in Loch Haven Park received its largest donation ever from co-founder Michael A. Mennello. The gift of 14 paintings and five sculptures at an appraised value of $8.75 million dollars was announced by Orlando’s Mayor Buddy Dyer at the museum’s annual gala Saturday night. During the gala, Mayor…
Is Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz just three kids stacked on top of each other in a suit?
On Sunday, Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz made a rare appearance on a network other than Fox News to defend the NRA-backed notion that arming teachers is somehow a more reasonable response to our nation’s mass shootings than, say, just making it harder for maniacs to buy weapons of war. While appearing on MSNBC’s AM Joy…
Will the young hero of ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ echo the Meg Murry beloved by generations of readers?
Meg Murry sucks at school. She gets in fights. She talks back to adults. She’s “repulsive-looking.” She’s contrary in every way to what Hollywood would call a hero, especially a female hero. All of this and more is why the upcoming A Wrinkle in Time movie due out this weekend will be judged in part…
Florida senator says only ‘thoughts and prayers’ will stop mass shootings
Florida Sen. Kelli Stargel is actually upset more people aren’t seeing the use of “thoughts and prayers” after mass shootings. During the weekend debate on a proposed assault weapons ban that ultimately failed, the Lakeland Republican said, “It’s not the weapon, it’s the evil from within” that causes people to gun others down. “When we…
Video shows thousands of blacktip sharks migrating off coast of Florida
College students aren’t the only ones heading down south for spring break. According to Florida Atlantic University, thousands of blacktip sharks are heading south for warmer water during their annual migration off Florida’s southeast coast. The trek is considered to be the largest migration in U.S. coastal waters. For the last eight years, Stephen Kajiura,…
Florida billboard calls the NRA a ‘terrorist organization’
A political action committee has put up a new billboard in Pensacola, Florida, calling the National Rifle Association a “terrorist organization.” Mad Dog PAC, the group behind the billboard that simply reads “The NRA is a terrorist organization,” is headed by Claude Taylor, a former staff member in Bill Clinton’s White House. “With the GOP majority in the…
Maxi Priest announces an Orlando show set for this summer
International reggae icon Maxi Priest has announced a North American tour set for this summer and Orlando will host the kick-off show! Priest pioneered a reggie/R&B hybrid in the late ’80s in the U.K. that became known as “reggae fusion” and took that style worldwide. Roughly three decades later, Maxi Priest is still a creative…
Florida teacher removed from classroom for reportedly hosting a white nationalist podcast
Dayanna Volitich, a 25-year-old social studies teacher at Crystal River Middle School in Florida, has been secretly hosting the white nationalist podcast “Unapologetic” under the name “Tiana Dalichov,” reports HuffPost. The school’s investigation into Volitich’s alleged extracurricular activities began on Friday, after HuffPost brought it to school administration officials’ attention that the teacher, along with…
Record numbers of Brazilians expected in Orlando this year
After years of decline thanks to the economic situation in Brazil and negative news here, like hurricanes and numerous mass shootings, it now looks like Orlando’s third largest international market is rebounding. Brazil’s economy is finally picking up steam. Pointing to a Reuters poll that showed Brazil’s GDP growing at a rate of 2.3 percent…
Starflyer, Orlando’s newest thrill ride, will open this May
The skyline of International Drive is about to change dramatically. After months of delays, the Orlando Starflyer is finally going vertical. When finished, the tower will be one of the tallest structures in Central Florida and the tallest Starflyer ride in the world. Clocking in at 425 feet tall, 25 feet taller than the nearby…
Band of the Week: Dancing Bones
Welcome to Orlando Weekly’s “Band of the Week.” Every week, we highlight one of our favorite local bands. This week, we’re pleased to bring you Dancing Bones. Dancing Bones are playing Punk on the Patio at 64 North on Tuesday, March 6 and at Uncle Lou’s on Saturday, March 10. Just the facts: When did…
Florida lawmakers reject money to fix clemency backlog for former felons
Despite a federal court ruling that Florida’s clemency process is unconstitutional, state lawmakers refused Sunday to provide funding to address a backlog of former felons seeking to have voting rights restored. After House Appropriations Chairman Carlos Trujillo, R-Miami, and Senate Appropriations Chairman Rob Bradley, R-Fleming Island, reached the agreement, members of the Legislature’s black caucus…
The Cookery now open in the Milk District
The Cookery, a longtime fixture at the Plant Street Market as well as the District at Mills and Market on South, now has its very own store in the Milk District. The specialty grocer stocking sundry locally made, organic and all-natural foods, pastries, sauces, spices, beverages, botanicals and more has opened on South Street, next…
Florida Senate backs armed teachers, rejects assault weapons ban
After hours of intense debate on a school-safety measure, Senate Democrats were unable Saturday to strip a controversial provision that would allow specially trained teachers to bring guns to schools or to add an assault-weapons ban demanded by survivors of last month’s mass shooting at a Broward County high school. Democrats spent the rare Saturday…
Greece’s 1000mods and Iowa’s Telekinetic Yeti make two of the best heavy debuts in ages
THIS LITTLE UNDERGROUND 1000mods, Telekinetic Yeti and Beer Wolf, Will’s Pub, Feb. 28 Whatever their name may evoke, Greek hard-rockers 1000mods have about as much to do with dapper scooter boys as 1000 Homo DJs have to do with fabulous turntablists. Instead, these riff riders roll with heavy intent and the fuzz and heft of…
Rick Scott proclaims Feb. 14 as Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Remembrance Day
Gov. Rick Scott has proclaimed Feb. 14 as Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Remembrance Day in Florida. Scott’s office made the announcement a little more than two weeks after a gunman killed 17 students and teachers at the Parkland high school on Valentine’s Day. The governor also asked Floridians to join him in a moment…
Florida Democrats knock Rick Scott on gun record via Orlando billboard
The Florida Democratic Party have their sights set on Gov. Rick Scott’s voting record on gun safety, and almost the whole damn town can see it. When driving by East Colonial Dr. and Commerce Blvd. in East Orlando today, there’s a glaring detail that stands out from the rest – a digital billboard that, by…
Philip Levine wants Delta to relocate their HQ to Florida
As the Georgia Legislature shoves a foot down their throat by considering blocking a tax break for Delta Air Lines, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Philip Levine says Florida is waiting with open arms if the company wants a fresh start. It’s the latest in a series of friendly invitations to Delta Air Lines CEO Edward Bastian,…
Lyft will honor Parkland students by offering free rides to anyone going to March for Our Lives rallies
Lyft is offering free rides to people across the U.S. who want to attend “March for Our Lives” protests against gun violence on March 24. The ride-hailing company announced Friday it was “honored to support the work” of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students who organized the rally days after a gunman killed 17 of their classmates…
Reel Big Fish, Simple Plan and more announced for Vans Warped Tour
This is the final year for the touring punk fest that is Vans Warped Tour, and the full lineup for this year’s event has been revealed, balancing old favorites with new faces. Orlando fans have one last chance to take it all in. Highlights of this year’s lineup include: Reel Big Fish, Bowling For Soup,…
Volusia sheriff says parents have to pay at least $1,000 if their child makes a school threat
If a student wants to make a threat at a Volusia County school, Sheriff Mike Chitwood says it’ll come out of the parents’ pockets from now on. On Thursday, Chitwood announced that if any student makes a violent threat at school, their families will be responsible for paying the cost of the local sheriff’s office…
Florida House approves bill that would limit opioid prescriptions to three day supplies
While the sponsor acknowledged the bill won’t solve the state’s problem with opioid abuse, the House on Thursday unanimously passed a measure that includes imposing prescription limits. “I don’t think it (the problem) is going to completely go away, but I think this is a way for us to fight back,” Rep. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton,…
Florida lawmakers pass bill restricting most common second-trimester abortion
The Republican-dominated House on Thursday approved a bill that would restrict the most common type of second-trimester abortions. The measure (HB 1429), sponsored by Rep. Erin Grall, R-Vero Beach, would impose new restrictions on doctors performing dilation-and-evacuation abortions, in which a woman’s cervix is dilated and the fetus is removed in pieces. The procedure, described…
Donald Glover’s ‘Atlanta’ re-created the ‘Florida Man’ meme in the best way possible
I can’t stop thinking about Florida Man lol #AtlantaFX pic.twitter.com/XMtdwNAZb0 — Jasmine (@JasmineLWatkins) March 2, 2018 Season Two of the FX drama Atlanta premiered last night, and while the entire episode was a clear indication that this will be another classic season, show creator Donald Glover’s vision of the Florida meme was arguably the best…
Adults take over Orlando Science Center for Science Night Live
Tired of all the kids hogging the balls at the Science Center’s super-cool citrus-themed playground? This weekend, you can fight over them with fellow adults. The Science Center goes adults-only with an evening devoted to hands-on demonstrations and presentations on a variety of topics, along with several opportunities to get buzzed on beer, wine and…
Audubon Park hosts fourth annual Eat Local, Sip Local stroll
To paraphrase the Rolling Stones, spring is here, and the time is right for drinking in the strip malls. The shops of the Audubon Park Garden District band together for a wine & beer walk with libations and light bites at multiple stops. Make sure to grab a map and maybe find your new favorite…
Sonny’s Smokin’ Showdown takes over Tinker Field this weekend
Barbecue connoisseurs get to take over Tinker Field this week as Sonny’s hosts their Smokin’ Showdown barbecue competition. Attendees are treated to live entertainment throughout the day while comparing notes on nearly 40 different barbecue teams. Fair warning: Food and drink aren’t included in the ticket price. 11 a.m. Saturday; Tinker Field, 287 S. Tampa…
Rick Scott urges Florida lawmakers to pass school safety plan amid divisions
Accompanied by the father and brother of a student slain during last month’s mass shooting in Parkland, Gov. Rick Scott made a rare appearance before the House and Senate on Thursday to urge lawmakers to pass a sweeping measure aimed at making schools safer and keeping guns out of the hands of mentally ill people.…
1803 Pizza Kitchen opening this month in Audubon Park
Just last week they were describing themselves as “a hot mess” on Facebook, but based on their latest photos, it looks like 1803 Pizza Kitchen is right on schedule. The pizza restaurant will replace longtime neighborhood mainstay O’Stromboli’s, taking over the space across from Stardust Video & Coffee in Audubon Park. The new owners are…
Catch a screening of ‘Spring Breakers’ mere hours before Riff Raff takes the stage this Sunday
Here’s an inspired double feature for you. Sunday afternoon, Uncomfortable Brunch screens Spring Breakers, a breakneck spree of sex, drugs and crime from noted indie squirm-inducer Harmony Korine. Along with former Disney Channel tween stars Selena Gomez and Vanessa Hudgens playing gun-toting co-eds, the film stars a chameleonic James Franco as a drug dealer named…
Texas hyperviolence quartet Portrayal of Guilt tear into Uncle Lou’s this week
It takes a certain type of pitch-black chutzpah to tackle a song from Christian Death’s epochal 1982 debut Only Theatre of Pain. And yet, Texas hyperviolence quartet Portrayal of Guilt wowed with their muscular take on “Spiritual Cramp,” released as a 7-inch last year. They brought the requisite drama. The rest of their output –…
Orlando union workers say Disney is discriminating by withholding bonuses
Disney union workers in Orlando say the theme park company is discriminating against them by withholding bonuses it promised to all employees. Leaders of the six organizations that make up the Service Trades Council Union said Thursday that about 80,000 Disney cast members across the nation were getting their first $250 of a $1,000 cash…
A Burmese python in Florida broke a record by regurgitating a deer larger than itself
An invasive Burmese python in Florida pulled off arguably one of the most metal feats of nature this week. The Conservancy of Southwest Florida announced they found a Burmese python attempting to digest a white-tailed deer that was 111 percent its size in Collier-Seminole State Forest on Thursday. The fawn weighed 35 pounds while the…
Needle exchange program could expand in South Florida
An effort to expand a needle-exchange program statewide was scrapped Tuesday by a House health care committee, which agreed to extend the Miami-Dade County program to two additional Southeast Florida counties. “In the spirit of baby steps, I encourage you to support this,” Rep. Cary Pigman, R-Avon Park, told members of the House Health &…
Kick off the soccer season with Orlando City’s annual pub crawl
The pride is back! Well, the Pride’s male counterpart team, anyway. Orlando City Soccer Club celebrates the opening of the MLS season with its huge annual downtown bar crawl this week. Meet up with your fellow purple-decked fans at Elixir, then trek down to Lion’s Pride on Church Street for a street party, followed by…
Ron DeSantis is disappointed at Florida lawmakers for ‘rushing to restrict’ gun rights
U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis says he’s disappointed in Florida lawmakers for “rushing to restrict” the gun rights of law-abiding citizens two weeks after 17 students and teachers were killed at a Parkland high school. DeSantis, who’s the leading Republican candidate for governor after being randomly endorsed by President Donald Trump, has waited days to address…
7,000-year-old ancient burial site found off the coast of Florida
While swimming roughly 300 yards off the coast of Venice, divers with Florida’s Bureau of Archaeological Research discovered an ancient Native American burial site estimated to be 7,000 years old, announced the Florida Department of State. The Manasota Key Offshore archaeological site, which is 21 feet under water and spans about an acre, dates back…
Following Florida school shooting, Walmart will no longer sell guns to anyone under 21
In the wake of the of the Parkland massacre, Walmart has taken it upon themselves to change their policies on both real and toy guns. After a 19-year-old expelled student of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School murdered 17 of his former classmates and teachers two weeks ago, Walmart has increased the age of buying a gun…
Blackberry Smoke to play free show in Orlando this weekend
Fast-rising new southern rock band Blackberry Smoke are set to play a big show in downtown Orlando this weekend, and the best news of all is that it is free! The band are set to release a new album, Find a Light, on April 6, and fans at this show will no doubt get a…
Putin used a graphic of Florida getting nuked to show off new Russian weapons
Putin nukes Florida in new animated video showing Russia's futuristic weapons https://t.co/Iq6tjVLLPf pic.twitter.com/bAxOOnjriC — Gizmodo (@Gizmodo) March 1, 2018 While delivering his annual address to the country’s Federal Assembly today, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin showed off some fancy new weaponry by displaying an animated video of a nuclear strike on the United States, specifically Florida, or…
Florida lawmaker wants investigation into NRA lobbyist Marion Hammer’s influence
Legislative leaders maintain there isn’t anything there, a nothing burger in current parlance, when asked about a story in The New Yorker describing National Rifle Association lobbyist Marion Hammer’s influence throughout the Capitol, particularly her sway in helping write and dictate language in bills. But the story has Rep. David Richardson, D-Miami Beach, prepared to…
Preacher Lawson revealed as the final headliner for Orlando Indie Comedy Festival
The Orlando Indie Comedy Festival revealed the identity of their promised secret Sunday headliner early this morning. And it’s none other than hometown hero Preacher Lawson, who shot to stardom on last year’s season of America’s Got Talent. Lawson, who now resides in Los Angeles, has made the trip home to headline Sunday night’s showcase…
‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ star JB Smoove stops into the Improv this week
You might only understand about half the words coming from his mouth, but this quick-talking, fast-paced comedian will keep you in stitches. If you don’t know JB Smoove for his stand-up, you may recognize him from his role as Larry David’s roommate, Leon Black, on Curb Your Enthusiasm. Smoove is also an award-winning comedy writer…
Take a romantic nighttime cruise on the Winter Park Chain of Lakes this Friday
Friday nights are filled with movie debuts, dinner plans with friends and, more often than not, lying on your couch catching up on your favorite TV shows. Get out and get active this Friday evening with a new way of taking in the world set before you. Catch the sunset in its golden hour and…
Parkland high school shooting survivors and parents place 49 roses at Pulse
As 49 white roses were looped one by one into a fence surrounding the gay nightclub Pulse, Jaime O’Dwyer wondered how it came to this. Steps away from her was the spot where 49 people were murdered by a gunman more than 20 months ago. Two weeks ago, a shooter slaughtered 17 students and teachers at Marjory Stoneman…
Florida Legislature’s controversial plan to arm teachers is causing political rifts
A controversial proposal that would allow armed teachers in schools has led to bipartisan bickering and prompted accusations that people in both parties are making political pawns of victims of this month’s catastrophic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School that left 14 students and three faculty members dead. The mother of a slain teacher,…
Trump still has no idea what happened at Pulse
President Donald Trump continues to be wrong about what happened during the mass shooting at the gay nightclub Pulse, almost two years after it happened. While making the argument against having “gun-free zones,” Trump said the massacre of 49 people by a gunman at Pulse could have been stopped if someone had been armed during…
Publix announces new wage increases for employees
This afternoon Publix announced it would increase their wages for employees. While Publix did not specify how much the wages will go up, new hires and employees who were hired within the last six months can expect raises, an employee told Orlando Weekly. Though it depends on the area, a starting wage for a new…
Authorities capture 9-foot alligator on doorstep of Florida home
Police were called to a Cocoa Beach apartment complex where residents were trapped in their home because of a 9-foot-long alligator. Officers with the Cocoa Police Department were called to the apartment around 3:30 p.m. on Monday after neighbors reported seeing the gator chilling around the complex, said CPD in a Facebook post. Authorities contracted…
Florida governor candidate Adam Putnam doesn’t support age limits on gun sales because kids like hunting
Adam Putnam, a Florida Republican gubernatorial candidate who recently scrubbed all references of him calling himself a “proud NRA sellout” from his website, says he doesn’t support a 21-year-old age limit to gun purchases because of the state’s rich heritage of kids going hunting, or whatever. In a statment sent to Tampa Bay Times political editor…
Steakhouse set to open in the former Park Plaza Gardens
The owners of the local 310 restaurants will open a new steakhouse concept in the vacant space previously occupied by Park Plaza Gardens in Winter Park. According to local food blogger Scott Joseph, as of now the restaurant’s working name is “Bovine,” and no exact opening date has been set, but they hope to open…
Florida voters overwhelming support stricter gun laws, says two new polls
Despite Florida Sen. Marco Rubio arguing that banning semi-automatic weapons is a “position well outside the mainstream,” two new polls released today from respected institutions strongly suggest otherwise. Banning all semi-auto weapons may have been popular with the audience at #CNNTownHall, but it is a position well outside the mainstream https://t.co/18rMDwEfGs — Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February…
Korn’s Jonathan Davis to play solo show in Orlando this spring
Jonathan Davis, best known as the frontman for Korn, has announced dates for a world tour set to start this April, and an Orlando show will be part of it. The mercurial singer has just released his “spiritual” solo single, “What It Is,” and is poised to release his debut album this summer. Jonathan Davis plays…
Police-involved shooting at downtown Orlando Wahlburgers leaves one man dead
Orlando police officers shot and killed an armed man after he left the downtown Wahlburgers restaurant on 200 S. Orange Ave. Wednesday morning. The suspect’s name has not yet been released. At a press conference following the incident, Orlando Police Deputy Chief Eric Smith said the suspect had a domestic violence injunction filed against him…
19 free concerts happening in Orlando this week
Wednesday, Feb. 28 Eugene Snowden’s Ten Pints of Truth 10 pm at Lil Indies, 1036 N. Mills Ave. The Daniel Heitz Band 10:30 pm at Tanqueray’s, 100 S. Orange Ave. Thursday, March 1 Leisure Chief 10:30 pm at Tanqueray’s, 100 S. Orange Ave. Raleigh Estes and Friends 8 pm at Muldoon’s Saloon, 7439 Aloma Ave.,…
Coral Gables commissioners pursue assault weapons ban despite Florida law
Coral Gables commissioners unanimously passed a ban on military-style assault weapons despite a Florida law prohibiting local municipalities from enacting rules on guns. Elected officials who pass gun laws can be removed from office by the governor, fined up to $5,000 and can be personally sued. But the Miami Herald reports Coral Gables city commissioners…
Following Florida school shooting, Dick’s Sporting Goods stops selling assault-style rifles
On the same day Parkland shooting survivors returned to school, Dick’s Sporting Goods announced they will immediately stop selling assault-style weapons and high capacity magazines. Dick’s CEO Edward Stack released an open letter this morning stating the company will not only stop dealing assault-style rifles, like the one used in the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High…
UCF evacuates building after a student wearing a LeBron jersey stood up and threw powder in the air
Police at University of Central Florida are currently looking for a suspect wearing a LeBron James jersey, who reportedly stood up in the middle of class and threw powder in the air. “The suspect stood up in a class that he is not believed to be a student in, and threw powder in the air,”…
Florida House Speaker blasts Senate Republicans on ‘sanctuary cities’
House Speaker Richard Corcoran on Tuesday labeled Senate Republicans as “not real conservatives” for failing to move forward with his priority to ban “sanctuary cities.” With less than two weeks remaining in the legislative session, the Senate version of Corcoran’s plan (SB 308) has not gotten through committees, and the Senate sponsor indicated he does…
Sanford ranked among most dangerous cities in the country
The city of Sanford, along with seven other Florida communities, were just ranked among the 100 most dangerous cities in the nation. According to a new report from Neighborhood Scout that ranked the country’s top 100 most dangerous cities, which looked at the number of violent crimes per 1,000 residents as well as property damage, Sanford…
Thundering Spirit Pow Wow celebrates Native American culture at Renninger’s
Munch on some authentic Indian tacos and enjoy award-winning Native American musicians at this year’s Thundering Spirit Pow Wow in Mount Dora. This multi-day event promises traditional Native American cultural experiences, such as drumming, dancing, crafts, games and demonstrations. Performers include Arvel Bird, Joanne Shenandoah, Lucas Ciliberti, a group of Aztec dancers called Tlaltlacayolotl and…
After defending the NRA, Marco Rubio’s approval rating is at an all time low
After explaining to a Parkland shooting survivor that he’ll continuing taking money from the NRA because they “buy into his agenda,” Florida Sen. Marco Rubio’s approval rating is now at an all time low. According to a new Quinnipiac University poll out Tuesday, Rubio approval rating is now at a measly 38 percent, down 8…
Art31 kicks off with Culture Pop at the Maitland Art Center
This year’s edition of the Art & History Museums’ Art31 is focused on fiber art, and Friday night’s party is the kickoff to a monthlong celebration of the textile arts. While Friday is the usual Culture Pop fantasmagoria of pop-up installations, music, short films and performance art, the centerpiece is the Art31: Fiber gallery show…
Our picks for 2018’s best spring festivals happening in Orlando
Festival season is upon us. Here are all the big ones you don’t want to miss in the Orlando area this spring. Feb. 28-May 28 Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival Over the past quarter-century, Epcot’s gardening gathering has grown from a modest horticultural celebration into a multi-month marathon of imbibing around World Showcase. New…
Gimme Shelter: Meet Cleo!
Looking for a new pet? Meet Cleo! Cleo (A397740) is 4 years old and is looking for a new home. She is housebroken and leash-trained, and her previous owner stated she gets along well with other pets. She is also crate-trained. She can’t wait to find her forever home! For the month of March, OCAS adoption…
Chilean drama A Fantastic Woman addresses transgender rights
Fantastic foray
Opening this week: Death Wish, Red Sparrow and more
THIS WEEK: Death Wish The hare-brained idea of remaking the 1974 Charles Bronson revenge fantasy Death Wish has been kicking around Hollywood for too many years. At various times, everyone from Sylvester Stallone to Liam Neeson to Will Smith was either attached to star or on the wish list. When the gunpowder settled, the dubious…
Savage Love: ‘Quickies’
I recently stumbled on an Instagram account of a young woman who’s a “knife play” enthusiast. I consider myself sex-positive, but I must say I was disturbed by the images. I was also shocked that I didn’t know this was a thing! But of course it’s a thing cuz everything is a thing, right? I…
4 Locos Tacos opens in Winter Garden, Park Station is now the Rustic Table, plus more local food news
OPENINGS: Over in Winter Garden, This Little Piggy – an old-fashioned barbecue joint – has opened in the Plant Street Market … Just down the road, 4 Locos Tacos, a taqueria known for its tacos al pastor, has opened … Spice Indian Grill, serving Indian and Nepalese specialties, has finally opened near UCF … King’s…
Chicago’s CupcakKe is audacious and in charge
God save the queen
The best concerts happening in Orlando this week
1000Mods: Top-shelf heavy and catchy grooves from this heavily buzzed (we’re talking about the press, not THAT) Greek stoner metal quartet coming stateside. 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 28, at Will’s Pub, $12-$15 Andrea Gibson: Poet and spoken-word artist Gibson sets her raw and emotive pieces to spare musical accompaniment; perfect for the intimate environs of…
ICYMI: Eight Orlando-area lawmakers voted down last week’s assault weapon ban; Rubio gets roasted and more
John Morgan connects school shootings to prescription drugs and vaccines: Orlando trial attorney John Morgan, a once-viable contender for governor, took to social media last week to argue that there is some sort of connection between mass shootings and prescription drugs and even vaccines. Pointing out that he didn’t know any kids with autism when…
