Community Corner

🌱 Orlando Drag Queen Pageant Relocated + FHP Now Hiring Workers

The quickest way to get caught up on the most important things happening today in Orlando.

(Patch Media)

Morning, friends! It's me, Carlos Hernandez, your host of the Patch newsletter. Let's get this Saturday started off right with a quick guide to everything you need to know about what's happening in town, including updates on...

  • Former State Attorney Aramis Ayala has launched an attack against Gov. Ron DeSantis
  • Rep. Darren Soto is asking the DOJ to investigate antisemitic attacks in Central Florida
  • A new World War II exhibit is now open at Winter Garden Heritage Museum

But first, today's weather: Breezy; an afternoon shower. High: 88 Low: 67.


📈 Interested in reaching our highly engaged readers with targeted messaging that drives proven results for local businesses? I'm looking for business owners and marketers in Orlando who want to build awareness, connect with customers, and increase sales. If that's you, click here to learn more.

Find out what's happening in Orlandofor free with the latest updates from Patch.


Here are the top stories in Orlando today:

  1. Former State Attorney Aramis Ayala has launched an attack against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as the battle continues between the governor and elected state attorneys across the state. "I think that he's going to do what he thinks is politically sound, not what is in the best interest of public safety. And certainly not what's best for this particular community." (WESH)
  2. Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) desperately needs more workers in Central Florida. Due to the shortage, the application process is being reduced from nearly six months to two months. FHP needs at least 100 more workers in Central Florida. (Fox 35 Orlando)
  3. A drag queen pageant raising funds for the Rose Dynasty Foundation has relocated from the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando as the Florida government led by Gov. Ron DeSantis launches a crackdown on drag shows and alleges shows are targeting children. The pageant has been moved to Wyndham Orlando Resort & Conference Center in Kissimmee. (Click Orlando)
  4. Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL) is asking the U.S. Justice of Department (DOJ) to investigate an antisemitic group and recent activity by the group in Orange County. Soto has warned of "potential civil rights and criminal violations" in a letter to AG Merrick Garland. The group has also been lambasted by Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood. (Click Orlando)
  5. "World War II and West Orange County" is new exhibit now open through May 31 at Winter Garden Heritage Museum. The exhibit celebrates the men and women of West Orange County who fought to defend freedom in the 1940s. The museum is located at 1 N. Main St., Winter Garden. (West Orange Times & SouthWest Orange Observer)

From our sponsor:

Find out what's happening in Orlandofor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today’s Orlando Patch newsletter is brought to you in part by T-Mobile. T-Mobile has invested billions to light up their best network ever, covering 99 percent of people in America with LTE, which helps to keep communities like ours informed and connected. We thank T-Mobile for their support and for making today’s Orlando Patch newsletter possible.


Today in Orlando:

  • Your Kidneys And You at Broward County Library — South Regional. (all day)
  • City Of Orlando Commissioner Jim Gray's District 1 Spring Festival. (11 a.m.)
  • Mayor's Jazz In The Park 2023 at Cypress Grove Park. (2 p.m.)
  • A Big Day for Baseball: A Magic Tree House Adventure at Orlando Shakes. (2 p.m.)
  • City Soccer Rooftop Pregame Day Party at Chillers Orlando. (5 p.m.)

From my notebook:

  • Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts shared: "We're excited to share our AdventHealth 23/24 Broadway Season lineup coming to Walt Disney Theater. Stay tuned for dates on March 10." (Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts via Facebook)
  • Orlando Weekly shared: "South Korean hip-hop trio EPIK HIGH is performing at Hard Rock Live on Wednesday, March 8. Tickets are on sale now." (Orlando Weekly via Instagram)
  • Orlando Health shared: "Springtime in Orlando means the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard and warmer weather. You can stay energized throughout the weekend with these tips from Dr. Eldayrie." (Orlando Health via Facebook)
  • Thornton Park District shared: "This Sunday, March 5, at Lake Eola Park is the 9th Annual It’s Just Yoga Health & Fitness Festival. Central Florida's largest Yoga & Wellness Event. This is a non-ticketed, donation-based festival that benefits New Hope for Kids." (Thornton Park District via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured businesses:

Featured events:


Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Saturday! I'll see you soon.

— Carlos Hernandez

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a food writer with over 10 years of experience in the industry. I write the food blog Carlos Eats (http://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines with food-related blogs and articles.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Orlando Patch newsletter? Contact me at carlosreportsnews@gmail.com

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.