Diversity Film Showcase + DNA Testing + Colombia Flights

Good Morning and Happy First Friday! My name is Carlos Hernandez and I am back to update you on the latest happening in the Orlando area.

In this issue, you'll learn about the return of a diversity film showcase, the fate of a former prosecutor who plead guilty to sex with a minor, DNA testing controversy, emergency shelter update after a child shooting, and more.

Today’s weather: The high is 87 and the low is 73 with thunderstorms. There is a 70% chance of rain.

Here are the top 5 stories happening around Orlando:

1. Enzian Theater in Maitland will have its third annual diversity in film showcase this weekend. It will highlight themes and communities surrounding women, Blacks, LGBTQ+, and Asians. (Spectrum News 13)

2. A former judicial candidate and prosecutor, Andrew Jones, pleaded guilty to sex with a minor. He will avoid jail time in a plea deal. He will serve two years of community control, similar to house arrest, and then eight years of probation. (Orlando Sentinel)

3. Florida United Methodist Children’s Home says it will no longer accept emergency shelter children after two children opened fire on deputies in a shooting. The church cited a lack of resources. (Click Orlando)

4. For the second time in a week, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, has asked a judge to block DNA testing in a death penalty case despite the area's top prosecutor agreeing to it. (Orlando Sentinel)

5. Avianca Airlines is launching flights that connect Orlando International Airport to Cali, Colombia starting July 15th. (Orlando Business Journal)

Today in Orlando:

• Glow at the Mall Oviedo. Hot air balloons descend at the mall. (4 p.m.)
• First Friday at FAVO: Artists Open House at Faith Arts Village Orlando. Family-friendly live music, food trucks, and art. (5 p.m.)
• Southern Feast Friday at The COOP Winter Park. (6 p.m.)
• Wine Quest's 25th Anniversary. (7 p.m.)

Orlando Patch Notebook:

• Daytona International Speedway will lift all COVID-19 restrictions for the Coke Zero Sugar 400.
• ICON Park will open a new Build-A-Bear workshop on June 8th.
• Mango’s Tropical Cafe is reopening on June 10th.
• Florida AFL-CIO has launched a campaign to get Governor DeSantis to reverse the end of federal unemployment benefits.

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That's all for today. I will be back tomorrow with the latest happening in Orlando. My inbox is open if you have any tips to send or want to reach out: orlando@patch.com.

-Carlos Hernandez

About me: I have lived in Florida since 1999 and covered the Orlando area for nearly 10 years, mainly with a focus on food through my blog at CarlosEats.com.