🌱 Traffic Expected Memorial Day Weekend + Self-Driving Lynx Shuttle

Hello all. I'm Carlos Hernandez, back in your inbox this spring morning with your fresh copy of the Orlando Patch newsletter. Here's all the community news you need to know right now, including:

• Over 2.4 million Floridians are hitting the road this Memorial Day holiday weekend, expect traffic.
• SeaWorld Orlando is bringing back free beer this summer for guests and annual passholders.
• City of Orlando and Lynx have announced a new partnership to bring an autonomous shuttle between downtown Orlando and Parramore.

But first, today's weather: A thundershower in spots. High: 81 Low: 65.

From our sponsor:

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.

Here are the top stories in Orlando today:

1. Over 42.3 million Americans are expected to travel 50 or more miles from home through May 30 for the Memorial Day holiday, including at least 2.4 million Floridians. The best times to drive, according to INRIX, are in the morning hours or evening after 6 p.m. to avoid traffic. (Florida Patch)
2. Authorities have arrested and charged a 16-year-old boy in connection to a shooting last month outside Dezerland on International Drive in Orlando's tourist district that left multiple people injured. One of the victims in the shooting died at the hospital later. The suspect is facing a first-degree murder charge in the incident. (Click Orlando)
3. City of Orlando and Lynx have announced a new partnership planning to start an autonomous shuttle service between downtown Orlando and Parramore. The new service will be a partnership with Beep Inc., which provides self-driving shuttles in Lake Nona. (Bungalower)
4. A Volusia County man has been found guilty in a deadly stabbing incident that happened in 2021 and is now facing life in prison. The body of the victim was found dumped on a bicycle path in Osteen. The suspect was arrested by authorities in Sanford. (WESH)
5. SeaWorld Orlando has brought back free beer for the summer through July 27 for guests ages 21 and older. The announcement comes as SeaWorld opens near attractions this summer. Guests can grab the free beer at the Waterway Grill. Annual passholders can enjoy 2 beers. (Fox 35)

🏘️ Looking to differentiate yourself from other real estate agents in Orlando? Partner with the Orlando Patch and gain access to a targeted, engaged audience through our premium newsletter sponsorships. Click here to learn more.

Today in Orlando:

• Jrogun MoveFit Camp at Lake Lorna Doone Park. (7:30 a.m.)
• The Unreal Garden — Orlando at Boxi Park ake Nona. (11 a.m.)
• 3rd Annual Wu Tang Brunch at Graffiti Junktion — Thornton Park. (noon)
• Memorial 4 Day Weekend at Promenade At Sunset Walk. (5 p.m.)
• Soca In The Jungle at Rum Jungle. (10 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Orlando Police Department shared: "Congratulations to the newest members of the Orlando Police Department. OPD added 12 new officers to our law enforcement family. These officers were sworn in by Chief Eric Smith during the Law Enforcement Academy Graduation Ceremony. (Orlando Police Department via Facebook)
• Orange County, Florida 🍊shared: "Orange County Fire Chief James Fitzgerald presented Cassandra Spence with the 2023 Iron Medic of the Year Award. Cassandra transported the most patients in a 12-month period with a total of 774 transports." (Orange County, Florida 🍊 via Instagram)
• Nature Conservancy In Florida shared: "Recently our Orlando Cities Team was able to meet in the Pine Hills community to discuss our Treesilience program. Trees reduce heat, provide shade, block wind and provide habitat." (Nature Conservancy in Florida via Instagram)
• Dr. Phillips Center For The Performing Arts shared: "Milky White is making his only stop in Florida with 'Into The Woods' on Broadway, June 6-11 in Walt Disney Theater. Get tickets now to see the Tony-nominated production direct from Broadway." (Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured businesses:

• Satisfaction Delivery
• Add your business here

Featured events:

• T-Mobile Tuesdays: Fresh Perks Every Week (May 30)
• Add your event

Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Saturday!

— 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