Cover Story
Pop Art Prints from the Smithsonian pack a serious punch at the Mennello
Maybe because the iconic images of the movement are so bright and shiny, sometimes even goofy, Pop Art can seem empty-headed. But the sharply selected group of works in Pop Art Prints, a traveling exhibition curated by the Smithsonian American Art Museum opening at the Mennello on Friday, shows how those poppy images really documented…
UPDATED: Everything Orlandoans can do to give and receive help after Pulse shooting
In the aftermath of the mass shooting at Pulse early Sunday, many people are still eager to show their support and help those affected by this tragedy. We have a full list of vigils and memorial events here. Below we have a cumulative list of ways for you to help, places that are offering help,…
UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week
Since last Sunday’s mass shooting at Pulse nightclub, people are looking for ways to mourn. What follows is every memorial and vigil that we know of so far in the Orlando area. Please double-check with the organizers of these events, as the City of Orlando has requested to the community that we hold off on large-scale…
18 questions with Top Chef Master Tony Mantuano
Tony Mantuano, the affable James Beard Award winner and Top Chef Master, is a purist at heart when it comes to Italian cuisine. He’s been referred to (affectionately, I should add) as “The Godfather,” and his Michelin-starred Chicago restaurant, Spiaggia, has been going strong for 30-plus years serving Italian cuisine that’s “innovative yet mindful of…
Orlando shooting massacre becomes part of political landscape
Sunday’s horrific massacre at a gay club in Orlando may have deepened the chasm between an increasingly divided electorate in Florida —- and the nation —- but how that will play out at the ballot box remains a mystery. Within hours of the early Sunday morning murders at Pulse nightclub, the worst mass shooting in…
The Ladies of the Peek-a-Boo Lounge give a burlesque tribute to Prince Wednesday
Since the passing of Prince, the pop legend has been at the forefront of our minds more than ever. We’ve been receiving updates about his death almost daily, somberly singing his songs over and over again, and now we have another chance to celebrate his musical genius. Orlando Weekly Best of Orlando winners for Best…
Alligator drags toddler into Seven Seas Lagoon at Disney World, deputies say
Orange County deputies are searching for a 2-year-old child who they say was dragged by an alligator into the Seven Seas Lagoon near Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The Orlando Sentinel reports the Orange County Sheriff’s Office was looking for the toddler in the waters late Tuesday night, who had not been found at the…
Disney donates $1 million to families affected by Orlando mass shooting
Aside from Disney’s CEO Bob Iger expressing his condolences and viral photos of park characters holding up hearts, Walt Disney Company has been pretty much silent about the tragedy in Orlando, Florida. Today, Disney announced on their official blog that they are donating $1 million to the OneOrlando Fund, established by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. OneOrlando…
Pulse survivor writes moving poem about living through mass shooting
The powerful and emotional poem written and read by #Orlando shooting survivor, 20-year-old Patience Carter https://t.co/IoDpZat1jv — Joshua Chavers (@JoshuaChavers) June 14, 2016 Survivors of the mass shooting at Orlando’s gay nightclub Pulse that killed 49 and wounded 53 are sharing their stories Tuesday, including Patience Carter. Carter, 20, was visiting Orlando from Philadelphia. At…
Nearly 48 hours later, Florida Gov. Rick Scott finally acknowledges the LGBT community
Today, at around 11 a.m., almost 48 hours since 49 people were shot and killed by a gunman in an Orlando gay nightclub, Gov. Rick Scott has finally acknowledged the existence of Florida’s gay community. We pray for our LGBT community. Our Hispanic community. Our state. Our nation. This was an attack on every American. We…
City of Orlando creates OneOrlando fund to help Pulse victims’ families
Instead of blindly trusting and sorting through several GoFundMe accounts, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer has created another way to donate. OneOrlando Fund was created to “raise and receive money to help those families most affected by the tragic events that unfolded on June 12, 2016 in our community,” according to the website. The fund is a…
Orlando mass shooting survivor says ‘heartless’ gunman shot him as he played dead
In a terrifying recollection, a survivor of the mass shooting that left 49 dead at Orlando’s gay nightclub Pulse says after the first round of shots, the gunman came back to fire at him and other victims on the floor who were playing dead. Angel Colon, 26, of Polk County, spoke Tuesday in a wheelchair…
Florida Republicans say Orlando massacre hasn’t changed their minds about gun control
At a debate Monday night in Chipley, deep in the Florida Panhandle, the Republican candidates for an open congressional seat said this weekend’s massacre at an Orlando nightclub hadn’t changed their minds about gun control. All four described themselves as conservative, pro-life Christians —- and they agreed on most issues, including the worst mass shooting…
Orlando shooter’s wife reportedly tried to talk him out of attack
Omar Mateen’s wife says she not only knew about the attack on Pulse nightclub, but tried to convince her husband to not follow through with it. NBC News is reporting that Mateen’s wife, Noor Mateen, told FBI officials she was with him when he bought ammunition and a holster. She also claims that she drove him…
Kanye West announces two Florida stops on his Saint Pablo tour
Hip-hop artist Kanye West has unveiled the cities and dates for his Saint Pablo tour later this year, and they include two Florida stops. The rap iconoclast will touch down in Tampa at the Amalie Arena on September 14th, and two days later play the AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami on September 16th. This tour, West’s first…
Witness says Orlando shooter hung out at bar before opening fire
Marcus Godden was sipping drinks and mingling with his friends when he saw Omar Mateen standing about 15 feet away by the bar. Mateen wasn’t drinking or dancing. Quietly, he surveyed the roughly 300 people enjoying themselves during Latin Night last Sunday around 2 a.m. at the gay nightclub Pulse in Orlando. He stared at…
The Orlando shooter was a regular at Pulse
According to witnesses, Omar Mateen, the Orlando shooter who killed 49 people at the gay nightclub Pulse, was a regular at the club. A married couple who frequented Pulse told the Canadian Press that Mateen was in fact a repeat visitor. “It’s the same guy,” said Chris Callen to the Canadian Press. “He’s been going to this…
UnitedHealthcare offers free mental health counseling to anyone, insured or not
UnitedHealth Group has opened their mental-health counseling help lines to anyone (literally anyone, you do not have to be insured by UnitedHealthcare) affected by yesterday’s events. Here’s their statement and contact information: “UnitedHealthcare and Optum, the health benefits and services companies of UnitedHealth Group, are taking immediate action to support people affected by the recent…
President Obama is coming to Orlando on Thursday
President Obama is coming to Orlando on Thursday, according to the Tampa Bay Times. Obama will reportedly “pay his respects to victims’ families, and to stand in solidarity with the community as they embark on their recovery,” says White House press secretary Josh Earnest to the Times. Stay tuned for more information in the next days. …
Orlando residents mourn fallen at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Orlando residents came out to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts lawn today to honor the victims of the shootings at Pulse nightclub. Many arrived with flowers, handmade posters or cards in remembrance of those fallen, which they placed at the front of the lawn. Several visitors wrote letters of support and love…
Central Florida groups unite to help Hispanic community after Orlando mass shooting
Over 30 Central Florida community groups have united as “Somos Orlando” to help the Hispanic community following the shootings at Pulse Nightclub. As the night of the attack was Latin Night, many of the victims are of Hispanic descent, and Somos Orlando has pledged to provide support, information, and access to resources to the local…
‘Functionally Literate’ radio show invites LGBTQ writers to read their work on air Thursday morning
Ryan Rivas, publisher of Burrow Press and one of the hosts of WPRK radio show “Functionally Literate,” posted a message today on Facebook inviting LGBTQ writers to read their work or share their thoughts on the show. On Functionally Literate Radio, this Thursday morning, we’re inviting writers from Orlando’s LGBTQ community to share their thoughts…
J.K. Rowling ‘can’t stop crying’ for 22-year-old shooting victim Luis Vielma
Luis Vielma, 22, a victim of the mass shooting at Pulse nightclub, was a student at Seminole State College and worked at Universal Studios at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Tampa Bay Times reported that Vielma’s high-school friend Eddi Anderson said he “loved his job there.” J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter…
Urgent need for Spanish speakers to assist on help lines
The Pulse nightclub shootings have disproportionately affected Orlando’s Latino community, and there is an urgent need for bilingual volunteers to assist on counseling help lines and in speaking to victims’ friends and families. City officials have asked anyone who can help with translation services to call 407-428-5870 or email info@hispanicchamber.net to volunteer. Diana Bolivar, president…
Orlando shooter passed all background checks
The gunman who carried out a massacre early Sunday in an Orlando nightclub passed all of the legally required background checks for his weapons, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam told reporters Monday. Omar Mateen, a 29-year-old St. Lucie County resident, had a clean criminal record, passed a mental-health screening to get a security guard job,…
Families learn victims’ fate as officials continue investigating Orlando mass shooting
Families anxious to learn the fate of their loved ones who had been missing since the mass shooting that killed 49 and injured 53 early Sunday at the gay nightclub Pulse received the heart-wrenching news Monday amid gasps and cries. So far, the city of Orlando has identified 47 victims of suspected gunman Omar Mateen, 29,…
K Restaurant will donate 10 percent of dinner service proceeds to Pulse shooting victim’s family
Edgewater High School alum, Publix employee and College Park resident Cory Connell is among the victims of Sunday night’s attack on Pulse nightclub. Connell’s parents have set up a GoFundMe account to assist with funeral and burial fees, and chef Kevin Fonzo of K Restaurant is donating 10 percent of the proceeds from tonight’s dinner…
Big tough guy Geraldo Rivera criticizes Orlando shooting victims for not fighting back
Geraldo Rivera, a mustachioed tough guy with a selfie problem, decided to criticize the victims of the Orlando nightclub shooting for not fighting back, something he would never, ever do. Media Matters, who first caught this, pointed out that while on Fox and Friends Monday morning, June 13, Rivera decided to see if his foot could fit…
Chakra Khan debut proves it’s the best, most modern Solillaquists spinoff yet (The Venue)
THIS LITTLE UNDERGROUND Last year, Alexandra Sarton and DiViNCi of the illustrious Solillaquists of Sound peeped an interestingly abstract jazz-inspired performance at Lil Indies. Now, they’ve officially emerged as Chakra Khan, and – as their recorded product and grand coming out (June 11, The Venue) prove – they’re a more realized and crystallized union. Their…
Orlando Weekly will offer free obituaries for Pulse victims’ families
In light of Sunday’s mass shooting at Pulse, Orlando Weekly will be offering free obituaries for all victims of this senseless tragedy. Obituaries need to be submitted by Thursday, June 16, in order to be in our June 22 issue. However, if for some reason this deadline is missed, we’ll run it in the June 29…
Security at Orlando theme parks expected to be heightened
In the wake of early Sunday’s mass shooting at Pulse, security at Orlando’s major theme parks including Disney World, SeaWorld and Universal will likely be raised. According to Fox News, deputies at Walt Disney World were put on alert on Sunday and said that they were being “extra cautious and vigilant in the park areas.” Back…
Orange Avenue shutdown brings road closures and bus detours
Parts of Orange Avenue have been shut down following the mass shooting at Pulse Nightclub, which has created quite a few road closures as well as detours for several Lynx bus routes in Orlando. Orange Avenue will be closed from Kaley to Grant on Monday, according to Bungalower. The City of Orlando has encouraged residents…
Florida Gov. Rick Scott hasn’t said the words ‘gay’ or ‘LGBT’ once since the Orlando mass shooting
After 49 people were shot by a gunman in an Orlando gay nightclub, during Pride Month, Gov. Rick Scott still hasn’t uttered the words “gay” or “LGBT.” This massive omission of the gay community has been most evident on both his Twitter and his many television appearances. As you can see in the video above,…
Orlando shooter reportedly scouted Disney Springs as potential target
The shooter responsible for the mass shooting that killed 49 people at an Orlando gay nightclub reportedly scouted Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs as a potential target. A federal law enforcement source told People.com on Sunday that the shooter, Omar Mateen, and his wife had been in Orlando last April “scouting Downtown Disney and Pulse [nightclub]…
Help available to care for pets of Orlando shooting victims and families
Animal organizations around town have stepped up to help care for pets affected by the Pulse Nightclub shootings. If you know of an animal that was left behind by a hospitalized or deceased victim, or if you need help caring for your pets as you attend to friends and family affected by the shootings, these…
ISIS has posthumously accepted Orlando nightclub shooter’s pledge of loyalty
According to the Associated Press, Islamic State radio has referred to the Orlando mass shooter Omar Mateen as “one of the soldiers of the caliphate in America.” New York Times reporter Rukmini Callimachi, who focuses on ISIS and al-Qaeda, posted to Twitter a translated transcript from the radio broadcast early Monday morning: The brother Omar Mateen, one…
Former general manager of the Plaza Live issues statement in wake of Christina Grimmie shooting
We just received a personal statement from Kirk Colvin, former general manager of the Plaza Live. As of June 1, Colvin was no longer an employee of the Plaza and was not present at the Plaza on Friday, June 10, when young singer Christina Grimmie was shot. Grimmie later died of her gunshot wounds. The…
Take a free guided tour through CFAM’s newest exhibition, ‘Displacement: Symbols and Journeys’
Displacement: Symbols and Journeys, another bravura show curated by Amy Galpin, opened at the Cornell Fine Arts Museum May 21. The show explores borders and boundaries, but before you assume it’s a heady conceptual brew of liminality and intersectional politics, pull up: This is a straightforward examination of the physical barrier between the United States…
Valencia professor will compete on ‘Jeopardy!’ this Tuesday
Dana Thurmond Bruno, a humanities professor at Valencia College, may have a near-perfect 4.9 rating on RateMyProfessor.com, but she’ll have to do more than just impress students if she wants to win on Jeopardy! this Tuesday, June 14. Specifically, she’ll have to master the notoriously difficult timing of the buzzer in order to respond (in…
Here’s everything we know about the mass shooting at Orlando’s Pulse nightclub
Orlando saw the worst mass shooting in U.S. history early Sunday morning with 50 people dead and 53 wounded after 29-year-old Omar Mateen opened fire on more than 300 people attending Latin night at the gay nightclub Pulse. There’s still a lot of unanswered questions, but here’s what we know so far. City officials have so…
Lin-Manuel Miranda reads sonnet for Orlando in his Tony acceptance speech
Hamilton playwright Lin-Manuel Miranda read a sonnet dedicated to Orlando tonight, as he accepted the Tony for Best Score. “We chase the melodies that seem to find us until they’re finished songs and start to play, When senseless acts of tragedy reminds us that nothing here is promised — not one day. This show is…
Tony Awards dedicate tonight’s ceremony to Orlando victims
The Tony Awards announced that tonight’s ceremony (televised on CBS) is dedicated to the families and friends of those affected by the Pulse Nightclub mass shooting. The 2016 #TonyAwards are dedicated to those affected by the events in Orlando. pic.twitter.com/ILNbbhxSHD — The Tony Awards (@TheTonyAwards) June 12, 2016 They also created a special remembrance ribbon…
City asks community to “hold off on vigils,” citing strain on public safety resources
The City of Orlando has asked community members, although we are all grieving, not to gather in any kind of large-scale vigil, especially in any way that would require police protection. Central Florida’s police officers, EMTs, medical professionals, firefighters and other first responders and emergency personnel have been stressed beyond belief in the past 48…
Local LGBT organizations set up GoFundMe sites for victims and families of Pulse shooting
Two GoFundMe campaigns have been set up by prominent local LGBT organizations in the past several hours and funds are pouring in to both. Civil rights organization Equality Florida set up a GoFundMe several hours ago to support “victims and families affected by the horrific shooting at Orlando’s Pulse Nightclub.” The campaign, which has a $500,000 goal,…
Fox News commentator blames Obama and political correctness for Orlando massacre
Earlier today, President Obama called last night’s mass shooting at an Orlando gay nightclub an act of terror and hate, and while the exact motives of shooter Omar Mateen are still being determined, this Fox News commentator just flat out thinks Obama is to blame. According to Fox News commentator Sebastian Gorka, who is the Major…
Farm-Haus to donate Monday night’s dinner service to victims’ families, first responders
Farm-to-table delivery service Farm-Haus will donate Monday night’s dinner service to those affected by the shooting. In an emailed statement, owners Patrick and Brittany Lyne said: In lieu of the mass shooting that took place in our community at Pulse Nightclub last night, we will be donating tomorrow evening’s dinner service to those affected by…
City of Orlando begins releasing names of victims in the Pulse nightclub massacre
The City of Orlando started a page on its official blog this afternoon containing the names of people who lost their lives in last night’s attack at Pulse nightclub. So far, only four names have been released, but the list will be updated as victims are identified and after families are notified. Related Stories
Watermark editor Billy Manes speaks regarding Pulse shooting on MSNBC
Watermark editor in chief and former Orlando Weekly news writer and political columnist was interviewed by Tamron Hall on MSNBC earlier today. Click here or on the image below to watch the video: Related Stories
Plaza Live suspends all shows in wake of Christina Grimmie murder
In the wake of the murder of singer Christina Grimmie following her show Friday night at the Plaza Live, the venue released a statement yesterday that they were suspending ALL concerts currently on their calendar. This diverse slate of shows included everything from Trailer Park Boys to Keb Mo’ to Peter Hook & the Light. The…
Omar Mateen purchased firearms used in Pulse shooting in Florida in the last week
Today Trevor Velinor, a spokesman for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, said that Omar Mateen legally bought the two guns believed to be used in the attack within “the last few days.” “He is not a prohibited person. They can legally walk into a gun dealership and acquire and purchase firearms. He did…
FBI investigated Orlando shooter twice before
Sunday afternoon, FBI investigator Ronald Hopper told members of the press that the Orlando shooter Omar Mir Seddique Mateen, who was responsible for over 50 deaths at a gay nightclub, was previously investigated on two separate occasions. Hopper said: The FBI first became aware of Mateen in 2013, where he made inflammatory comments at co-workers…
Governor Rick Scott calls for moment of silence tonight in honor of Pulse shooting victims
In a press conference minutes ago, Governor Rick Scott called for a moment of silence at 6 p.m. tonight in honor of those who were killed or injured in the Pulse nightclub shooting last night. Also posted to his official Twitter account, Scott said, “I ask the nation to pause in a moment of silence…
President Obama: Orlando shooting was an act of terror and hate
Speaking at the White House today, President Obama told the press that the FBI is investigating today’s mass shooting at a gay Orlando nightclub as an act of terrorism. Referring to the mass shooting that left over 50 people dead at Pulse nightclub, Obama said: Today as Americans we grieve the brutal murder, horrific massacre…
OneBlood says they are in fact enforcing ban on some gay blood donors
Despite reports (by Slate, CNN, Mic, Jezebel, The Verge and several other reputable news orgs) that Central Florida blood banks had lifted the ban on the donation of blood by gay men, OneBlood tweeted a couple of hours ago that the FDA regulations banning the donations remain in effect. The ban, as it exists…
Orlando’s food community bands together in face of tragedy
In the aftermath of the shooting at Pulse Nightclub, Orlando’s food community has come together in a show of solidarity and grieving. While many restaurants are open in the face of this tragedy, chefs have taken to social media to convey their thoughts, prayers, and condolences. Farm-Haus: We are devastated by the events that took…
Running post: Vigils scheduled tonight, events still happening and events postponed or canceled
We will keep updating this post as we get more information about vigils and memorials tonight, and as we hear about events previously scheduled that are postponed or canceled. —OW staff +++ NOTE: City Commissioner Patty Sheehan has requested that Orlandoans postpone any outdoor vigils scheduled for this evening as law enforcement is stretched thin dealing…
Some blood banks now turning people away; here’s a partial list of places to donate
#Orlando is humanity at its worse, the response has to be humanity at its best. The blood donation queue right now pic.twitter.com/3zY17n4ALE — Scott Cuthbertson (@ScotCuthbertson) June 12, 2016 We’ve spoken to several people who attempted to donate blood at the Michigan Street OneBlood facility. This facility is now turning potential donors away as the…
UPDATED: Pulse nightclub shooting officially the deadliest mass shooting in American history
With at least 50 people confirmed dead, Saturday night’s mass shooting at Pulse is officially the deadliest mass shooting in American history. The previous worst shooting was the 2007 Virginia Tech massacre, which left 32 people dead and 17 injured, followed by the Sandy Hook massacre of 2012, in which 20 children and six adults…
Pulse shooter’s father: ‘This had nothing to do with religion’
The father of Omar Mateen, the Florida gunman who shot and killed at least 50 people at a gay nightclub in Orlando on Sunday, told Brad Jaffy of MSNBC the incident had nothing to do with religion. “We are apologizing for the whole incident. We weren’t aware of any action he is taking, we are…
UPDATE: EVENT CANCELED Explore the intersectionality of art and activism at Art X Social Change Night
UPDATE: In light of Saturday night’s mass shooting, this event has been canceled. When it is rescheduled, we’ll update again, but in the meantime, a note from the organizer: “Tragic and senseless violence struck last night in the heart of our community, with many lives lost, and countless more wounded. Our thoughts and prayers to…
Pulse shooter identified as Omar S. Mateen of Fort Pierce, Florida
The shooter involved with Sunday morning’s mass shooting at Pulse Nightclub has been identified as Omar S. Mateen of Fort Pierce, of St. Lucie County, Florida. UPDATE: Authorities are now saying Mateen is from Port St. Lucie, Florida, just minutes south of Fort Pierce. According to Fox News, Mateen was a 29-year-old, U.S.-born citizen with…
UPDATED: Health officials urgently request blood donation in wake of mass shooting
The number of wounded victims after the shooting in Pulse Nightclub has created an urgent need for blood and plasma. Any type will be welcomed, but particularly the universal blood types O-negative, O-positive or AB are needed. Orlando Regional Medical Center on South Orange Avenue is nearest Pulse, and many victims were taken there; however,…
The Center’s Terry DeCarlo promises counseling services to anyone affected by shooting at Pulse Nightclub
In the aftermath of last night’s mass shooting and hostage situation, Terry DeCarlo of the GLBT Community Center of Orlando said today that the Center will be gathering mental health professionals and volunteers to offer counseling in person or by phone to anyone who needs it. In an on-camera interview with WESH-TV’s Michelle Merritt this…
UPDATED: Mass shooting at Pulse Nightclub; multiple deaths confirmed
Gunfire broke out at Pulse Nightclub just hours ago. As many as 20 patrons may have been injured, and fleeing clubgoers reported a shooter with an assault rifle, possibly “wearing a bomb.” At 2:30 a.m., the nightclub posted “Everyone get out of Pulse and keep running” on its Facebook page. Ricardo Almodovar posted, “I was…
Donald Trump calls for GOP unity at Tampa rally while attacking critics on both sides
Donald Trump’s supporters live for his impromptu verbal slams into his numerous critics, and at his weekend rally inside the Tampa Convention Center, the presumptive Republican nominee did not disappoint. To a crowd of about 4,000, Trump rambled about “Crooked Hillary” Clinton being a “total mess” and “unstable” person who can’t be president; joked about…
UPDATE: Christina Grimmie of ‘The Voice’ dead after being shot at the Plaza Live
Young singer Christina Grimmie, 22, was reportedly shot tonight at the Plaza Live during a meet-and-greet after a performance. The singer was on a bill with Before You Exit, a local pop-punk band. According to a report by WESH-2 News, the suspect turned the gun on himself and is dead. Grimmie is best known for…
FWC staff recommend ‘conservative’ bear hunt among four options
Florida wildlife officials are recommending a “more conservative and accountable” bear hunt this year as one of four options the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will consider at a June 22 meeting in Eastpoint. The option recommended by FWC biologists would be a “limited hunt” that would put more restrictions on hunters, such as:…
OPD arrests two men involved in drive-by shooting that killed Gino Nicolas and Tanya Skeen
Orlando Police arrested and charged with murder two men who are allegedly responsible for the drive-by shooting in front of a Parramore apartment complex that killed innocent bystanders Gino Nicolas and Tanya Skeen. Nicolas, 24, was the Orlando coordinator for President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper program and a mentor to local youth. Skeen, 46, was…
Refused back to seal history, Plague Vendor prove why they’re one of today’s most exciting bands
THIS LITTLE UNDERGROUND Refused are one of those bands with not just legend but the kind of legend that’s bloomed considerably after the fact. Now, the Swedish hardcore expansionists are finally fully reunited, carrying some lore-fueled mystique and touring on their first new album in 17 years. That there is some momentous ammo in the…
Three local chefs are competing in the James Beard Foundation’s Blended Burger Project
The James Beard Foundation’s Blended Burger Project is back for its second year, and three area chefs — Chandler Cook of DeVine Wine & Grill in Winter Springs, Kevin Fonzo of K Restaurant in College Park, and Chez Bernard of catering company D’Bernard Gourmet Foods — are participating. The Blended Burger Project encourages chefs to make healthier,…
Watch this new video by Tampa-based Western Sons before seeing them live this weekend
Tampa’s Western Sons – no stranger to Orlando stages – are poised to play Orlando again this Saturday at the Social, and shared their brand new video for “Nothing New” with us. Guitarist Blake Rigdon had this to say about “Nothing New”: “I think ‘Nothing New’ ended up being one of the most personal songs…
Three places to buy exotic dried meats for National Jerky Day, June 12
Sunday is National Jerky Day, which does not imply that you get to be an ass-hat to your fellow (wo)man. It means that you should celebrate our pioneer foodways of meat preservation by means of salting and drying. Get your beef and turkey jerky from your local grocery store, but there are other spots in…
Vivoli il Gelato at Disney Springs unveils new flavor for this weekend only
Not sure if you’re aware, but there’s a sure-as-sugar Italian gelateria in Orlando — like, straight from The Boot itself. It’s at Disney Springs, our newest food theme park (really, let’s just call it what it is), and it’s the legendary Vivoli il Gelato, an 85-year-old gelateria from Florence. Last year, Vivoli il Gelato decided…
Joe Jonas, of the Jonas Brothers, is handing out free burgers at BurgerFi in Winter Park right now
Joe Jonas, also known as the third Jonas Bro, is right now, at this moment, handing out free burgers at BurgerFi in Winter Park. Thank you, burger gods. Meet us at 12pm at @burgerfi in @WinterParkFla w/ @XL1067 for free burgers to first 100 people to present this tweet 🍔 — J O E J…
First Listen: Chakra Khan’s cover of Bjork’s “Joga”
Chakra Khan, the new project from Alexandra Love and DiViNCi of Solillaquists of Sound, has given the Orlando Weekly an early listen/stream to their new track “Joga,” ahead of the release of their album this weekend at the Venue. Alexandra Love pulled back the curtain on what goes into interpreting a much-loved Bjork song: “Deciding…
Watch this leaked full ride video of Universal’s Skull Island: Reign of Kong
Thursday evening Universal Orlando’s highly anticipated attraction Skull Island: Reign of Kong had a soft-opening to the public, and the folks over at Inside The Magic recorded the entire thing. Not bad, Universal. Not bad. The ride delivers on everything they promised; immersive environments, 3D tyrannosaurus rex battles, and, of course, a giant animatronic ape.…
Jimotti’s Restaurant, by Morimoto’s former head sushi chef, opens soon in Sanford
Sanford really is shaping up to be a dining-out destination. The latest place capturing foodies’ fancy in our neighbor to the north is Jimotti’s Restaurant, a new venture by former Morimoto Asia head sushi chef Junichi Takazoe. Jimotti, which is Japanese slang for “local people,” will open at 2545 S. French Ave. in just two…
Take an adults-only field trip to the Science Center for Science Night Live
The worst part about the Orlando Science Center is that they allow children inside. Thankfully, this night they aren’t. Science Night Live is reserved for science-loving grown-ups who want to observe and mingle among other nerds. This event, combining the social and the science, gives geeks a chance to try a variation of hands-on experiments…
Go on a boozy scavenger hunt throughout Mills 50 for their Madcap party
The window for outdoor drinking scavenger hunt runarounds is rapidly closing – unless you’re some weirdo who actually enjoys physical activity in the summer – but the Mills 50 Madcap looks like it’s worth baby-powdering your crotch for. Teams of up to six people meet at the Brass Tap to pick up instructions and clues,…
Notable local two-piece Copper Bones throw album release party at Will’s Pub with free beer
Ain’t nothing like a good two-piece rock band. But in recent years, the local crop has gotten lean, as evidenced by the waning of the once-regular Two Piece Mini Fest. However, some fresh, relatively undiscovered blood like Howling Midnight has been surfacing and showing real promise. Certainly one of the most noteworthy is Copper Bones,…
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon may soon be getting a new water ride
Walt Disney World’s Typhoon Lagoon might be getting a brand new water ride. According to the to Orlando Business Journal, the park is expected to expand 2.28 acres with plans for a new guest area, which apparently includes the first new water ride in nearly a decade. Not a lot of info is available at the moment, but…
Eric Andre show in Orlando announced
Surrealist comedian/talk show host Eric Andre announced an Orlando show last night on July 31st at the Backbooth venue in downtown Orlando. It’s a great chance to see a total wildcard in a gritty, intimate venue. Andre is that rare mix of excellent comedic chops and Andy Kaufman level performance art weirdness. Prepare yourself with these…
Brewery and pizza joint moving into former Fiat building in downtown Orlando
The building that once housed the former Fiat dealership at North Orange and Jefferson street will soon become a new brewery and pizza joint. As reported by the Orlando Sentinel, Pan American Brewing and Pizza Co. plans to move into the space, but still need City of Orlando officials to change the zoning use on the property. …
Former Florida Democratic Party chair Bob Poe reveals he’s HIV-positive and wants to end stigma
Bob Poe, the former chair of the Florida Democratic Party and candidate for Congressional District 10, revealed in a video that he was diagnosed with HIV 18 years ago. Poe says that he is healthy because he got tested and diagnosed early, but he wanted to share his condition publicly to “remove the fear,…
New rooftop bar M Lounge coming to Ivanhoe Village
A new bar with a view is slated to open in Ivanhoe Village in the building formerly known as the Orlando Surgery Center. The building, which has been vacant for the past 8 years, is owned by Australian businessman Tim Majors, of Majors Investments, who bought it last August. As first reported by the College Park…
See ‘Ali’ at Regal Pointe Orlando Friday night
In memory of legendary boxer and civil rights activist Muhammad Ali, who passed away last week at age 74, Regal Cinemas is screening Ali in select theaters around the country tomorrow (Friday, June 10). Locally, the film will be shown at 7:40 p.m. at the Regal Pointe Orlando Stadium 20 & IMAX at 9101 International Drive. …
You can now visit this cute baby lemur at the Central Florida Zoo
A cute little baby lemur was born at the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens back on April 30. According to the zoo, the red-ruffed lemur weighed less than a pound at about 90 grams when born, but is growing at about 100 grams per week. This little fella is part of the Association of Zoos and…
PETA protests SeaWorld in downtown Orlando by putting orca-woman in tiny water tank
PETA is currently hosting a SeaWorld protest in downtown Orlando by displaying a woman in a tiny water tank dressed as an orca. The protest is underway in the City Commons courtyard at 400 S. Orange Ave. “We are hoping that tourists and Orlando residents will see our demonstration and visit our website and make the decision…
Cute droids find love in Marc With a C’s new video, “Where’s My Giant Robot?”
Prolific local songwirter Marc With a C released his 971st (Ed: someone fact check this before posting, please) album, Unicorns Get More Bacon, earlier this year, and this week posted a new video for the song “Where’s My Giant Robot?” to YouTube. Following the troubador’s penchant for “nerdy” topics, the song bemoans the lack of…
SeaWorld’s Mako hypercoaster will finally open June 10
SeaWorld’s long-awaited hypercoaster Mako opens Friday, June 10. Mako is being billed as Orlando’s “tallest, fastest, and longest” coaster, and will serve as the centerpiece of Shark Wreck Reef, the new 2-acre shark encounter area. A video released earlier in the year by SeaWorld jotted down the speed of the coaster at 73 mph. That, mixed…
Multiple Me releases video for “Devils and Angels” ahead of album release show Friday
Local songwriter Lauren Carder has found success both with the retro Western swing of the Mud Flappers and with Multiple Me, her sometimes-solo, sometimes-not project. Multiple Me is releasing their first full-length album, Little Light, with a party at Will’s Pub on Friday, June 10, and dropped a really nicely made video for single “Devils…
Fatto in Casa ending run at East End Market; pop-up bakery moving in
Elisa Scarpa, owner of Fatto in Casa, closed her Italian specialty food shop May 29 after three years at the East End Market. Scarpa says she’s plans to spend time with her parents and family in Italy and, in a post on Fatto in Casa’s Facebook page, says she has “no plans to open a…
Here’s where to watch Ghostbusters on the big screen this weekend
Whether you’re anticipating or dreading the new Ghostbusters film coming later this summer, it’s hard to deny that the original 1984 movie is a comedy classic. So, it’s a good thing that Fathom Events is rereleasing it on the big screen this Sunday. The newest in a long line of classic movies brought back to…
Florida Supreme Court hears challenge to open-carry ban
Law-abiding Floridians should be allowed to openly carry firearms in public, a gun-rights groups argued Wednesday to the Florida Supreme Court on behalf of a man arrested four years ago while strolling with a visibly holstered weapon in Fort Pierce. Florida Carry attorney Eric Friday said the state’s nearly 30-year-old concealed-weapons law violates the U.S.…
Orange County residents rally against developments east of the Econ River
A little less than a week before the Orange County Board of Commissioners takes a vote on two housing developments east of the Econlockhatchee River, local residents rallied against the proposals in downtown Orlando on Wednesday. Commissioners will meet next Tuesday, June 14, to make several decisions regarding “The Grow” (Lake Pickett South) and “Sustany”…
Acclaimed songwriter Freedy Johnston kicks off Hard Rock’s new Living Room Sessions
To kick off a new, intimate series of shows in their Lennon Room, Hard Rock Live has tapped indie troubadour Freedy Johnston to headline the first of these “Living Room” shows. They chose wisely. Johnston’s music and songwriting style – simple, direct, all minor-keyed and peopled with a collection of the damned and the even…
Don’t sleep on Plague Vendor, opening for Refused and the Coathangers Thursday
Between their 2012 reunion and the release of their first album in 17 years (Freedom) last summer, there are a whole lot of people cranked to see Swedish punk legends Refused. And the righteous garage-punk of Atlanta’s the Coathangers is always worth it. But the hot new blood of Plague Vendor is what makes this…
Winter Park restaurant Park Plaza Gardens won’t reopen anytime soon
Back in March, we reported that Park Plaza Gardens was temporarily suspending operations at its restaurant due to “certain conditions in our building” that make it “impossible to continue operations.” Well, looks as though things have gotten worse. In a statement today, Park Plaza Gardens owner Mary Demetree said: “I’m both saddened and deeply frustrated that…
Universal Orlando just released a teaser for Halloween Horror Nights 26
Universal Orlando says they will reveal the “force” behind Halloween Horror Nights 26 tomorrow, June 9. From Universal: “Tomorrow, Universal Orlando Resort will unveil the horrifying force behind Halloween Horror Nights 26. It’s her turn… ” There’s obviously not a lot of info here, but it’s probably safe to assume that Jack’s sidekick Chance is…
Man catches staggeringly big 13-foot-long hammerhead shark
A fisherman reeled in a massive great hammerhead shark last weekend off the coast of Padre Island, Texas. Fisherman Eric Ozolins revealed in a now-deleted Facebook post that it took an hour and fifteen minutes to capture the monster fish close t0 Padre Island, which is located along the Texas southern coast of the Gulf…
Vince Camuto boutique opens in Disney Springs
Lifestyle brand Vince Camuto opened a new retail shop right in the new Town Center of Disney Springs on Monday, June 6. According to Disney, this is their first location in Central Florida for the designer brand. The store will carry everything from sunglasses, to shoes to handbags. So far, Vince Camuto joins Disney Springs…
No Diggity: Blackstreet is playing a free show in Orlando this weekend
R&B group Blackstreet will be hosting a free outdoor show this weekend in Orlando, a performance that will undoubtedly attract the honeys like a magnet. Known for their 1996 hit “No Diggity,” the group will be performing this Saturday, June 11, in front of Orlando City Hall located at 400 S. Orange Ave. Blackstreet is…
The musical DNA of Jim Jarmusch’s ‘Down By Law,’ screening tonight
The latest installment in the More Q Than A film series, going down tonight, is the Jim Jarmusch classic Down By Law. The swampy noir film stars Tom Waits, John Lurie and Roberto Benigni (along with Ellen Barkin), and is a treat for both cinephiles, but also for heavy music fans due to both the…
Walgreens is coming to downtown Orlando
7-Eleven will no longer be the only convenience store option in downtown Orlando now that a 6,400 square-foot Walgreens plans to move in. The convenience store chained signed a lease with Nunziata Holdings LLC for a ground-level space at 190 S. Orange Ave. on June 6, according to the Orlando Business Journal. The Walgreens will…
Public Enemy announce Orlando show
Hip-hop icons/pioneers/provocateurs Public Enemy have announced ONE Florida show this summer, and it’s in Orlando. Besides a stop in Atlanta, their Orlando show at Hard Rock Live on June 30 is the only other Southern stop the legendary rappers will be making. A long hot summer just got hotter. Perfect timing on the comeback given…
A failed kidnapping was caught on video at a Florida Dollar General
Citrus County Sheriff’s Office recently released a video of a failed kidnapping at a Florida Dollar General. The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office posted the video to their Facebook page June 7, showing a man attempting to grab a 13-year-old girl in a Dollar General in Hernando, Florida. The suspect, 30-year-old Craig Bonello, can be seen in the…
25 free concerts in Orlando this week (6-8-6/14)
Wednesday June 8Eugene Snowden’s Ten Pints Of Truth 10 pm at Lil Indies, 1036 N. Mills Ave. Oriented Music Group Open Jam 10:45 pm at St. Matthew’s Tavern, 1300 N. Mills Ave. Reggae Night with Hor!zen and DJ Red I 10 pm at the Caboose, 1827 N. Orange Ave. The Imperial’s Acoustic Soundcheck With Tom…
Celebrate more than 500 years of Florida’s poorly dressed vistors at the History Center’s Tacky Tourist Party
It’s not every day you get the chance to wear a sun hat, a tropical Hawaiian shirt and chubbies while checking out exhibits in the Orange County Regional History Center, so you really shouldn’t pass this one up. Ponce De Leon first explored our lovely state in 1513, looking for rejuvenation and the secrets of…
NPR’s Diane Rehm stops by the Bob Carr to talk journalism, politics and more
Loyal NPR listeners know Diane Rehm as the shaky-voiced weekday morning host who posits insightful questions to politicians and other newsmakers. But that characteristic quake isn’t a result of Rehm’s age, but rather a symptom of her battle with spasmodic dysphonia, a voice disorder cased by involuntary muscular spasms in the larynx. While many radio…
25 Orlando bars celebrating Negroni Week
Bittersweet symphony
The void left by the passing of local set designer Tommy Mangieri will be filled by his many students, but upholding his legacy of kindness is up to all of us
“Tommy created worlds.” Many true and tearful things were said when the members of Orlando’s theater community gathered at the Orlando Repertory Theatre last Saturday night to say farewell to Tom Mangieri, the beloved stage designer who passed away on May 15 after a shockingly brief battle with brain cancer. But none better summed up…
News about Art in Odd Places, the Dr. Phillips Center expansion and more in our performing arts roundup
The 2016 Orlando Fringe is in the books (see last week’s Live Active Cultures column for the post-mortem) but another big arts festival is just booting up. Submissions are currently being sought for the second Art in Odd Places Orlando event, which brings the international installation project to unconventional venues along downtown’s Magnolia Avenue and…
Opening in Orlando: The Conjuring 2, Now You See Me 2, Warcraft and more
Opening this week The Conjuring 2 The Nick and Nora of the ghost-hunting set are back, this time helping a British single mum with four kids battle a houseful of poltergeists. Hmmmm … a household turned upside down by malicious sprites? Four kids? I think Supernanny would have definite opinions as to where the real…
Savage Love (6/8/16)
I’m a 33-year-old straight guy with a small dick. I have a girlfriend of seven years. When we met, I was really insecure and she had to spend a lot of time reassuring me that it didn’t matter – she loved my dick, sex with me was great, it was big enough for her, etc.…
Gimme Shelter (6/8/16)
Are you looking for a new furry friend? Adopt Riley! Riley (A350092) is a 6-year-old dog who is looking for a home. She is a friendly and sweet dog and she has a mellow personality. She enjoys running around outside and can be a little playful, but she is mostly a calm and loving dog…
Free Will Astrology (6/8/16)
ARIES (March 21-April 19) Mythologist Joseph Campbell analyzed fairy tales for clues about how the human psyche works. For example, he said that a fairy tale character who’s riding a horse is a representation of our relationship with our instinctual nature. If that character drops the reins and lets the horse gallop without guidance, he…
Timucua White House back in business with Myra Melford, Genitorturers celebrate 30 depraved years, Lydia Lunch’s Retrovirus tap pure No Wave marrow
Glasses up, everyone, the one-of-a-kind cultural jewel that is the Timucua White House is back in beautiful business! After the city permitting red-tape scare in April that threatened to put the kibosh on its operation, the White House has officially resumed doing what it does like literally no other: giving Orlando artistic terroir. And I…
Selections: Our picks of the week’s best events, June 8-14
Thursday, 9 Diane Rehm EVENTS Loyal NPR listeners know Diane Rehm as the shaky-voiced weekday morning host who posits insightful questions to politicians and other newsmakers. But that characteristic quake isn’t a result of Rehm’s age, but rather a symptom of her battle with spasmodic dysphonia, a voice disorder cased by involuntary muscular spasms in…
Lulu Eightball (6/8/16)
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Relive the era of coke spoons and key parties at Park Social
Park Social 358 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; 407-636-7020; parksocialwinterpark.com After work or after hours? After hours Beer/wine or liquor too? All three, but cocktails are the main focus. Check all that apply: ☒ fancy cocktails ☐ make ’em strong and keep ’em coming ☐ wine list (5 choices or more) ☒ craft beer…
Frontera Fresco coming to Disney Springs, Bem Bom food truck goes brick-and-mortar, plus more in local foodie news
OPENINGS Maddey’s Craft & Cru is in a soft opening phase. Jason Schofield’s “New Americana” restaurant is located inside the Bumby Arcade on Church Street … Also on Church Street, Lion’s Pride, an Orlando City Soccer-themed bar, will occupy a space in the historic Teele Building … Bem Bom on Corrine, a new restaurant from…
