🌱 Walt Disney Company Sues Gov. Ron DeSantis + Harry Buffalo Closing

Hello, hello! Carlos Hernandez here with your fresh copy of the Orlando Patch newsletter, filled with all the things you need to know about what's going on in town. Today's briefing includes updates on:

• Walt Disney Company has sued Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for "a targeted campaign of government retaliation."
• Harry Buffalo sports bar is shutting down in downtown Orlando.
• A black bear continues to roam Orlando's College Park neighborhood.

But first, today's weather: Heavy afternoon thunderstorms. High: 87 Low: 70.

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Here are the top stories in Orlando today:

1. Walt Disney Company has sued Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis over what the company said is "a targeted campaign of government retaliation." The lawsuit comes after Florida's Republican-led legislature passed legislation to take control of Disney's Reedy Creek District, according to reports. This is after month of attacks from DeSantis including a proposal to build a prison next to Disney and increase inspections at the theme park. (Orlando Patch)
2. Harry Buffalo sports bar is closing shop in downtown Orlando, with a final date planned for April 29. The restaurant owner cited difference with their new building owner as their lease expires. The closure comes after a number of restaurants and bars have steadily been closing in the area. (Bungalower)
3. A black bear continues to concern residents in the Central Florida area. Authorities have warned residents to not approach the bear, which is roaming Orlando's College Park neighborhood. FWC officers said they are monitoring the situation. (Fox 51, WESH)
4. Sarasota Republican Sen. Joe Gruters joined with Democrats to vote against removing Disney's control of its Central Florida properties, as the battle continues between Disney and Florida. Gruters served as the chairman of the Florida Republican Party from 2018 to 2022. Gruters said, "We should be finding ways to support our job creators and turbocharge Florida’s economy." He is the first Republican to join Disney against Gov. Ron DeSantis. (Florida Politics)
5. CVS Pharmacy is shutting down in Orlando’s College Park neighborhood. The space is now on the market for lease and expected to be quickly acquired. The store is expected to close on May 22. (Subscription: Orlando Business Journal, Free: WFTV)

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Today in Orlando:

• Watercolor Painting: Terra Cotta Pot With Bulbs at Harry P. Leu Gardens. (9:30 a.m.)
• Loutfi Aesthetics Grand Opening. (4 p.m.)
• Taste Of Baldwin Park Food & Wine at Baldwin Park Village Center. (5 p.m.)
• Network After Work Orlando at City PUB. (6 p.m.)
• Mystery Sketch Theater at The Falcon Bar & Gallery. (8 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Visit Orlando shared: "Epcot's International Flower and Garden Festival is in full bloom. The topiaries look sharp, colorful, and alive. Now through July 5." (Visit Orlando via Instagram)
• Orlando Weekly shared: "Gasoline prices spiked last week, due to fuel outages caused by historic flooding in South Florida. ⛽️📈 Prices went up 15 cents a gallon during the past week in Florida." (Orlando Weekly via Instagram)
• Orlando City SC shared: "Back in purple at home this Saturday. 💜" (Orlando City SC via Instagram)

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You're all caught up for today. 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