Issuu

The 10 very best restaurants that opened in Orlando this year. By Faiyaz Kara, page 18

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

Florida Group Publisher Graham Jarrett Orlando Weekly Editor in Chief Jessica Bryce Young Editorial Managing Editor Matthew Moyer Staff Writer McKenna Schueler Digital Managing Editor Chloe Greenberg Calendar Coordinator Hannah Miller Interns Emmy Bailey, Azlyn Cato Contributors J.D. Casto, Ida V. Eskamani, Jacquelin Goldberg, Matthew Gorney, Shelton Hull, Grayson Keglovic, Faiyaz Kara, Seth Kubersky, Juno Le, Jim Leatherman, Matt Keller Lehman, Bao Le-Huu, Michael Lothrop, Gabby Macogay, Dan Perkins, Steve Schneider, Nicolette Shurba, Ian Suarez Advertising Director of New Business Jeff Kruse Multimedia Account Exec Dan Winkler Classified Sales & Multimedia Account Manager Jerrica Schwartz Sales Department Administrator Rachel Gold Creative Services Graphic Designer Pedro Macias Circulation Circulation Manager Collin Modeste Chava Communications Group Founder, Chief Executive Officer Michael Wagner Founder, Chief Marketing Officer Cassandra Yardeni Chief Operating Officer Graham Jarrett Vice President of Operations Hollie Mahadeo LCC Marketing Agency Director Kelsey Molina Art Director David Loyola Digital Operations Coordinator Jaime Monzon Assistant to the Publisher/COO Deanesha Collins

cover photo by Matt Keller Lehman // cover design by David Loyola

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The Constitution sets out many protections on the basis of personhood, using the term ‘person’ rather than ‘citizen.’ These cards may be helpful to any English, Spanish, Kréyol or Arabic speakers who fear detention or deportation

ARTS+ CULTURE 15 Miss World

Orlando drag performer Dollya Black left Dragula and now drag behind. And that’s only part of her epochal year

17 Live Active Cultures

The highlights and the lowlights across the past year of covering theme parks, theater, cannabis and more of Orlando’s live active cultures

10 ways the City Beautiful stood up this year

FOOD+ DRINK

13 Rolling in DODO

The best restaurants that opened in Orlando this year

9 Serotonews

Best feel-good news stories out of Orlando in 2025

11 Mutual aid

Wasting your time and money! Welcome to the Department of DeSantis Optimization

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

FILM+ MUSIC

25 Couchsurfing

New shows streaming this week: Goodbye June, Cover Up, The Copenhagen Test and more

27 15 Most Festive

Orlando Weekly’s music writers present a highly subjective list of 15 albums that set the tone in Orlando

29 This Little Underground

It’s TLU’s annual, unbelievably exciting and inarguably definitive Undie Awards honoring 2025’s standouts in local music. And this year, the flowers go to …

BACK PAGES 31 New Year’s Eve parties 32 The Week

Our picks of the best things to do this week, plenty of event listings, and concerts down the road.

18 Top Tables

35 Gimme Shelter!

21 Recently Reviewed

37 Classified advertisements

Meet this week’s adoptable pet

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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS The Constitution sets out many protections on the basis of personhood, using the term “people” or “person” rather than “citizen.” U.S. court precedent historically supports the idea that these laws apply to all people on U.S. soil, whether or not they are citizens. These cards may be helpful to any English, Spanish, Kréyol or Arabic speakers who fear detention. Cut along the dotted lines and fold in the center to make a two-sided card. Sandwich around a piece of thin cardboard if possible, and reinforce with a layer of clear tape.

You have constitutional rights. • DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door. • DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent. • DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer. • If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave. If they say yes, LEAVE CALMLY. • GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

Usted tiene derechos constitucionales. • NO ABRA LA PUERTA si un agente de inmigración está tocando la puerta. • NO CONTESTE NINGUNA PREGUNTA de un agente de inmigración si trata de hablar con usted. Usted tiene el derecho a guardar silencio. • NO FIRME NADA sin antes hablar con un abogado. Usted tiene el derecho de hablar con un abogado. • Si usted está fuera de su casa, pregúntele al agente si tiene la libertad de irse. Si le dice que sí, VÁYASE CON TRANQUILIDAD. • ENTRÉGUELE ESTA TARJETA EL AGENTE. Si usted está dentro de su casa, muestre la tarjeta por la ventana o pásela debajo de la puerta.

Ou gen dwa konstitisyonèl. • PA LOUVRI PÒT la si yon ajan imigrasyon frape pòt la. • PA REPONN OKENN KEKSYON yon ofisye imigrasyon si yo eseye pale avèk ou. Ou gen dwa pou rete an silans. • PA SIYEN ANYEN san w’ pa pale anvan avèk yon avoka. Ou gen dwa pale ak yon avoka. • Si w’ deyò lakay ou, mande ajan an si w’ lib pou ale. Si yo di wi, ALE AVÈK KALM. • BAY AJAN KAT SA. Si ou anndan lakay ou, montre kat la nan fenèt la oswa glise li anba pòt la.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, sign any documents, or hand you any documents, based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution. I do not give you permission to enter my home, unless you have a warrant to enter signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door, based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution. I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings, based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution. I choose to exercise my constitutional rights. These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

JANUARY 9TH, 2025 UPDATING

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FEBRUARY 5TH, 2026 THE WOOD BROTHERS

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FEBRUARY 12TH, 2026 KATHY GRIFFIN

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FEBRUARY 13TH, 2026 DAN SODER

JANUARY 22ND, 2026 JOURNEYMAN- A TRIBUTE TO ERIC CLAPTON NAME

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SEROTONEWS

Best feel-good news stories out of Orlando this year BY ORLANDO WEEK LY STAF F

ith a dramatic shakeup at the White House (and chronically chaotic news cycle) kicking off the year, 2025 was a turbulent one, to say the least. The desire to turn off the news, block political content on social media, and cozy up close to a loving pet, soothing cup of tea or a bottle of something stronger was real. But politics and Trump’s return to the White House aside, Orlando Weekly staff also got the chance to report some genuinely heartening stories this year. This holiday season, as we’re mulling over the events of the last year, we wanted to share some of those with you. Orange County wipes out more than a half-billion dollars of medical debt

Through a partnership with the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt, Orange County government managed to relieve a total $515 million in medical debt held by more than 300,000 local residents. The county announced an initial round of $472.5 million in debt relief back in May, and the second round of $42.9 million in relief was announced in late October. The medical debt relief initiative was funded by a small portion of COVID relief funds distributed under the Biden administration. It was made possible through buying up debt for pennies on the dollar from local hospital systems and third-party collection agencies. No one formally had to apply for the program — instead, Undue Medical Debt worked with hospitals and collection agencies to identify and purchase the debt. Each dollar invested erases about $100 of medical debt, according to the nonprofit. Undue Medical Debt has partnered with more than two dozen other local state governments across the U.S. Orlando child actress shines bright in Wicked: For Good

Eight-year-old actress and Orlando native Scarlett Spears did her community proud in her big-screen debut in the highly anticipated sequel Wicked: For Good this November. In the film, Spears plays the young version of Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. Luckily, Spears, who is in the third grade and homeschooled, had seen the first Wicked; she had also seen the original 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz. At first, she didn’t understand why the movie started in black and white.“I asked my mom, and she said, ‘You’ll see, just wait,’” Spears says. “Then I got to see the colors. It was so beautiful. I wish I could go there myself.” And dear readers, she did! Orlando receives perfect score on inclusive LGBTQ policy

Orlando joined Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood,

Miami, St. Petersburg, Tampa and Wilton Manors this year in receiving a 100% score in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual report evaluating cities on how inclusive their municipal laws, policies, and services are. The Human Rights Campaign is one of the largest LGBTQ+ civil rights groups in the nation. “With federal and state governments too often leaving LGBTQ+ people behind, cities and towns are stepping up and embracing inclusion and equality,”said Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign. Orlando opens new period pantry

Yes, we’ll say it: Bleeding monthly, and having to shield that from the rest of the world because of social norms is mentally, physically and financially expensive. The Wall Street Journal reported last year that the cost of period products, specifically pads and tampons, was rising faster than food prices. (You thought egg-flation was bad.) The good news is that Orlando now has three “period pantries,” offering anyone in need free tampons, pads and related menstrual products. You can find one sponsored by Stand With Abortion Now outside Orlando’s abortion clinic (the Orlando Women’s Clinic in SoDo), another one outside State Rep. Anna Eskamani’s office in Lake Eola Heights — created by high schooler Boey Cho — plus another of Cho’s located in the Mills 50 thrift store Out of the Closet. Orange County moves forward with effort to revive local film industry

Orange County officials are working on a modest film tax incentive program that would be funded by a sliver of the county’s pot of tourist development tax (TDT) revenue. The goal is to revive the local film industry in Orange County, promote good jobs for film industry professionals, and promote visitation to Orange County through film. A half-dozen other municipalities in Florida similarly have their own film incentive programs, generally supported by labor unions that represent industry professionals. Orange County’s program will offer up to a 20 percent rebate with a cap of $1 million for film and TV productions that spend at least $400,000 locally — on local labor, catering, hotel rooms, equipment and other production-related expenses. It will also offer up to a 10 percent rebate for TV commercial productions — capped at $50,000 — that spend at least $250,000 locally. The rebate is only provided following completion of the project, and applicants must apply for the rebate and be approved. The program is kicking off with an annual financial commitment of $5 million over the next five years.

Orlando comedian Kam Patterson joins cast of Saturday Night Live

West Orlando comedian Kameron Patterson was tapped by NBC this year to join the cast of Saturday Night Live, the long-running sketch comedy show. Patterson, 26, made his debut Oct. 4 on the show’s Season 51 premiere, along with four other new cast members: Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall and Veronika Slowikowska. Patterson got his start on the stage of Orlando’s Night Shade Lounge, where Wilberto Miller hosted a weekly comedy night, All Jokes Aside. Patterson worked the Orlando open mic scene religiously until he moved to Austin in 2023, forging a path to national recognition when he became a regular that year on the “Kill Tony” podcast and started touring with comedian Tony Hinchcliffe. Transgender runner from Orlando raises money to help fund gender-affirming care

Orlando-based runner Simran Chugani did the community proud this year by using their participation in New York City’s annual marathon to raise funds for gender-affirming care for transgender folks. Chugani (they/them) set up a fundraiser for the run with Point of Pride, a transled organization that provides direct support and financial assistance to transgender people. Florida lawmakers in 2023 banned gender-affirming treatments for minors under 18 (even with parental consent) and restricted access to gender-affirming care for adults. Chugani, an Orlando transplant who now calls Florida their “forever home,”set a goal of raising at least $5,000 this year to increase access to gender-affirming care for adults, specifically. They ultimately surpassed their goal, raising $5,415 total. Se7en Bites hosts Pride parking space painting event

Inspired by Orlando’s battle with the state over the formerly rainbow-painted Pulse memorial crosswalk, Se7en Bites owner Trina Gregory launched Parking Spaces for Pride: A Rainbow Connection. Through this community project, Gregory opened up 49 of her restaurant’s private parking spaces to local artists who were invited to transform the pavement into colorful art installations. The “49” was a direct reference to the 49 people killed during the 2016 mass shooting at Pulse, a gay nightclub. Gregory emphasized the celebration was not a memorial to the Pulse tragedy, but was inspired by the Florida Department of Transportation’s decision to paint over the rainbow colors of the crosswalk outside of Pulse. According to Gregory, the spots will be repainted every other year.“This isn’t just about paint — it’s about community, visibility and love,” she said in a social media post. Orlando launches ‘dignity bus’ program to offer overnight shelter for homeless

Over the summer, the city of Orlando partnered with the nonprofit Christian Service Center to provide overnight shelter and accommodations to a rotating group of homeless people through

a city-funded program involving retrofitted Greyhound buses. Modeled after a program in Vero Beach, the Dignity Bus offers no-cost shelter for up to 42 people per night on two Greyhound buses the city purchased and rehabbed for $175,000 each. The buses offer individual sleeping pods with a mattress, sheets, a light, a charging outlet and a curtain for privacy. They also contain a restroom and have air conditioning. Orlando has an estimated housing shortage of nearly 9,400 units, and at least a couple hundred people are left without shelter each night. New drop-in center for homeless youth opens in Pine Hills

A new drop-in day center offering basic amenities like showers, laundry, computers and case management for homeless youth and young adults opened in Pine Hills this spring, just a few miles west of downtown Orlando. The day center is operated by Service and Love Together (SALT) Outreach, another Christian-led social services nonprofit. The new drop-in center is designated for young adults aged 16 to 24. At this point, it’s funded primarily through a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, awarded under the Biden administration. Hilton hotel workers score wage increases, stronger job protections in new union contract

After roughly a year of contract talks and several rallies to publicize workers’demands, hundreds of hotel workers at Hilton’s Buena Vista Palace and DoubleTree Universal hotel got a new union contract providing stronger job protections as well as immediate pay raises. The workers at those two hotels — including housekeepers, bartenders, cooks, room service waiters and others — are represented by UNITE HERE Local 737, a hospitality union that also represents about 18,000 workers at Disney World. Pay rates under the new contract went up immediately, according to the union. The union also managed to negotiate more affordable healthcare, a dental plan mostly paid for by the employer for the first time, job protections for immigrant workers, and 20 percent automatic gratuities on all guest checks for servers and bartenders. Winter Park Playhouse secures permanent home on Orange Avenue

The city of Winter Park formally purchased the Winter Park Playhouse’s space at 711 N. Orange Ave. this year, after receiving grant funds through Orange County’s collection of TDT revenue. The nonprofit professional musical theater has called the spot home for the past 23 years, but their future came into question in February 2023, when the building’s owners decided to sell the property. To preserve the nonprofit’s place in the community, the city of Winter Park partnered with the theater to apply for TDT funds, citing the $1.9 million economic impact and 30,000 guests it attracts each year. Winter Park was in turn allotted $8 million by Orange County to purchase and renovate the space. news@orlandoweekly.com

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ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

community members here saw the state’s paint job as a targeted insult to the LGBTQ community — not the first we’ve seen, and it’s unlikely to be the last. Donating to food banks to help local families in need

Protest actions aren’t the only way that Orlandoans stood up this year. Orlando also showed up by donating to food banks like Second Harvest and to the airport as thousands of federal workers in Central Florida were either furloughed during the government shutdown or forced to work without pay. Standing up for immigrants detained in the county jail

MUTUAL AID

NO KINGS // PHOTO BY MATT KELLER LEHMAN

10 ways the City Beautiful stood up this year BY ORLANDO WEEK LY STAF F

mid this year’s chaos from the White House (and from the state government), Orlando once again proved that it’s possible to stand up, show up and send a message. Locals this year protested against fascism, organized to provide transparency for family members of those detained by ICE, and donated to food banks and other organizations this year to help locals in need during the 43-day federal government shutdown. This is the energy we love to see in our friends and neighbors.

Protesting the Trump administration under the slogan of ‘No Kings’

Millions of Americans nationwide, including thousands in Central Florida, rallied against the Trump administration this year at sporadic “No Kings” protests organized by local activists fed up with the administration’s policies and funding cuts. Our reporter and photojournalist contributors documented Orlandoans who showed up across racial and generational lines, protesting proposed cuts to programs like Medicaid and SNAP, as well as the Trump administration’s immigration policy, billionaire Elon Musk’s ketamine-inspired “Department of Government Efficiency” and the generally hateful rhetoric coming from the White House. Several rallies were organized over the year at

Orlando City Hall, but don’t worry, Kissimmee, we saw you, too. Protesting Trump’s immigrant crackdown in Waterford Lakes

Nearly 200 Orlando residents came together near the Waterford Lakes Town Center over the first weekend of February to raise their voices loud and clear against policy decisions by Donald Trump, Stephen Miller and Elon Musk — particularly against immigration crackdowns and mass deportations. Protesters held signs with messages such as “U.S. Means All of Us,” “Hate never made America great,” and “I DRINK MY HORCHATA WARM BC FUCK ICE.” Rallying against the state’s erasure of Pulse’s rainbow-colored sidewalk

Despite funding a paint job for it last year, the state Department of Transportation decided this year that the rainbow-colored crosswalk outside the former Pulse nightclub was too woke and painted over it in the dead of night. And Orlando wasn’t having it. After all, the rainbow colors were installed to honor the 49 people killed during a mass shooting at Pulse in 2016, and served as sort of a makeshift memorial while the OnePulse Foundation stumbled around for years not building one. Local officials said it served as a roadway safety strategy, too. Many

Dozens of civil rights, legal and labor groups organized a coalition this year to call on Orange County leaders to ensure greater transparency for families of individuals arrested and detained by ICE agents on federal immigration holds. In response, the county directed Orange County Corrections to make it easier for families to identify family members held in the local jail, which has doubled as a temporary holding center for ICE detainees. Advocates regularly showed up to county commission meetings this year to keep the pressure on and organized press conferences to raise public awareness through media outlets (like Orlando Weekly), too. Standing in solidarity with striking Starbucks workers

As workers at a unionized Starbucks location in Oviedo joined a national strike against Starbucks this month, within the first week baristas began to see community members from groups like Central Florida Jobs With Justice and the Democratic Socialists of America show up on the picket line to support them, in addition to several candidates running for elected office (and, eventually, U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost). Workers at the Oviedo store first voted to unionize in 2022 and have been fighting through their union — Starbucks Workers United — to negotiate a first contract with Starbucks that would cover them and more than 11,000 other Starbucks workers across more than 550 locations who are also unionized. Florida isn’t a state that’s known for being particularly friendly to unions. But unionized baristas locally have told our staff reporter they see their fight as one not just to benefit their own working conditions and livelihoods, but that of future generations. Orlando punks raised funds for Palestinian relief the DIY way

Local DIY venue The S.P.O.T. (RIP) held a Palestine benefit this past February, hosting not just bands but food, clothing and jewelry vendors and a CFL Queers for Palestine booth for information on how to help locally. The lineup for the night comprised nine hardcore and punk bands from all around Florida: Right Effort, Andwhentheskywasopened, Noheartleft, AI Death Calculator, Unregistered Weapon, Bonus,

Flowers for Emily, Gravess and Watts. Each band that night had a few words to say regarding Palestine and colonization, often taking the opportunity to remind the crowd of the roots of punk in its resistance to genocide. All told, the gig organizers managed to raise $3,020.68 in donations to be sent directly to Healing Our Homeland, a grassroots women-led organization that has been providing aid and resources to Palestinians since 2016. Postal service workers stood up against privatization

The threat of privatization isn’t new for U.S. Postal Service workers — or the Department of Veterans Affairs, while we’re at it — but under Trump’s second term in the White House, the chance that threat could become reality has felt closer than ever. At least that’s what we heard from postal workers in Central Florida who believe USPS should remain a public service focused on serving communities indiscriminately, not padding the pockets of billionaires. Postal workers in Central Florida and across the country organized rallies this spring to say “HELL NO!” to privatizing America’s mail delivery. Advocates called on Disney to investigate alleged use of low-wage prison labor to fold Disney balloons

Local members of Central Florida Jobs With Justice stood side by side with formerly incarcerated workers outside Disney World this fall, calling on Disney to disclose that one of their subcontractors is paying Minnesota prisoners an average of 90 cents an hour to fold Disney character balloons. You know, the same balloons that cost customers $45 through a third-party vendor (or more, if you want it delivered to your Disney World Resort hotel room) that Disney promotes. According to the Minnesota Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee, Anagram International — a manufacturer of Disney balloons — is one of the largest contractors for the Minnesota Corrections System. Local advocates called on Disney to disclose the pay rates for prisoners who fold these balloons and to publicly advocate in support of raising those prisoners’ wages. Local public school teachers defied DeSantis’ effort to dismantle their union

When Gov. DeSantis signed into law a bill in 2023 that aimed to dismantle the state’s teachers unions, teachers across the state rose up to meet the challenge. And that continued this year, as teachers, school psychologists, librarians and other school staff in Central Florida school districts (including Orange and Osceola) voted in favor of keeping their unions certified, as they are now annually subject to a recertification process. For teachers, a union means they get a chance to negotiate higher salaries, duty-free lunches (so they can eat their lunch in peace), stronger paid maternity leave benefits, and generally have a voice on the job, collectively, that otherwise isn’t guaranteed.

orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

ROLLING IN DODO

Wasting your time and money! Welcome to the Department of DeSantis Optimization BY ORLANDO WEEK LY STAF F

hen tech billionaire Elon Musk, with the approval of the White House, decided to haphazardly hack away at the federal government this year through his “Department of Government Efficiency,”Florida leadership was taking notes. Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this year launched a Florida DOGE initiative, modeled after the federal version. DeSantis, of course, ran his own failed campaign against President Trump during the 2024 presidential election cycle, but he and his cartoon henchmen AG James Uthmeier and CFO Blaise Ingoglia didn’t seem to mind copying off his paper. What is the goal of Florida DOGE? From what we can tell: to call out and essentially shame local governments in Florida for allegedly wasteful spending. Uthmeier, Ingoglia and DeSantis himself have staged threatening press conferences to reveal this “wasteful” spending, without offering the media specific data to back up their allegations, nor full audit reports or even a firm definition of what they determine to be “wasteful.” Orlando and Orange County have both been targeted by Ingoglia. The city government took flak for giving a poet a $6,000 stipend to serve as Orlando’s official poet laureate, while Orange County was shamed by the former Republican senator for giving money to a local organization to support homeless LGBTQ+ youth. These expenditures, of course, have made up just a sliver of Orlando and Orange County’s overall budgets of billions of dollars altogether. Tellingly, while the state has decided to conduct audits or investigations into local governments’ spending, an investigation into state spending has been left untouched. As we’re wrapping up the year, Orlando Weekly staff decided to come up with our own state government efficiency operation, and to follow Musk’s and Ingoglia’s examples by coming up with a self-serving or mildly insulting acronym. Musk managed to use a federal initiative to pump his “favorite cryptocurrency,” DogeCoin, itself named after a meme; while Ingoglia stepped out by referring to FL-DOGE as the “Florida Agency for Fiscal Oversight” … yes, FAFO. So here we present a plan for the “Department of DeSantis Optimization,” or DODO. As we launch this initiative, we’ve compiled a list of questionable (dare we say “wasteful”?) expenditures by the state government. Let us know if you agree, or email your

own examples to news@orlandoweekly.com. Everglades immigration detention center (aka “Alligator Alcatraz”)

One of the most inhumane uses of taxpayer funds this year (YMMV on whether it’s “wasteful”) was undoubtedly the hundreds of millions of dollars dedicated to locking up undocumented or otherwise unauthorized immigrants in the new Everglades detention center commonly known as “Alligator Alcatraz.” Although the federal government, under the direction of the Trump administration, has since provided federal reimbursement for Alligator Alcatraz expenses, it wasn’t clear for some time whether that reimbursement would in fact be coming. Still, state leaders opened up their checkbooks and appeared perfectly willing to spend Florida taxpayers’ money to fund what Amnesty International has described as torture. Attack ads against abortion rights and marijuana legalization ballot initiatives

The Tampa Bay Times and Miami Herald published a bombshell investigation, building on previous reporting, that the DeSantis administration diverted millions of dollars of state funds meant for child welfare and healthcare and to combat the overdose crisis to instead fund political campaigns against two ballot initiatives last year — specifically, a ballot initiative that sought to enshrine the right to abortion in the Florida constitution and one that sought to legalize recreational marijuana use for adults. According to reporting, DeSantis’ administration spent at least $36.2 million in taxpayer funds to fight these initiatives, weaponizing agencies like the Department of Transportation for political purposes. Financial incentives to recruit law enforcement officers from other states

The DeSantis administration has spent no small chunk of change not just trying to compensate police officers fairly, but specifically trying to recruit police officers from other states through a law enforcement bonus program. This is something DeSantis has been at for years, even as other public sector workers (such as teachers) beg for salaries that allow them to be able to afford to live in their communities. Although pay raises for teachers are determined locally by school districts, those decisions rely on funding provided by the state.

Subsidizing unaccountable private schools through taxpayer-funded school vouchers

Instead of strengthening Florida’s public education system, the state government has offered vouchers worth thousands of dollars each to Florida parents who want to send their kids to unregulated private schools (often religious schools that aren’t subject to anti-discrimination regulations) or to homeschool kids with little to no oversight as to what they’re actually learning. Meanwhile, Florida’s average pay for public school teachers ranks 50th in the nation as the state continues to censor classrooms and libraries, and punish teachers who try to be inclusive of marginalized students. Promoting Florida’s anti-abortion “pregnancy resource” centers

Yeah, not only does Florida ban abortion after six weeks of pregnancy: The state also allocates nearly $30 million annually for a program that promotes anti-abortion facilities (often religiously affiliated) that aim to lure in vulnerable pregnant people to shame them against getting an abortion. These “clinics” are not medically licensed by the state and, thus, are not regulated or subject to privacy laws like HIPAA. Yet, they often pose as abortion clinics, with names such as “Choices” and, we shit you not, “Options for Women.” Those “choices” and “options,” notably, don’t include abortion care, nor can you expect to receive reliable medical advice from a medical professional. A ban on social justice efforts and the creation of “Make America Healthy Again” commission

Gov. DeSantis’ 2026 state budget proposal (one prepared using your money, of course) includes, among other things, a ban on governmental entities spending tax dollars on “efforts which advance, promote, entertain, or support fundamental considerations of social justice” — although it’s unclear from reporting how much it would cost the state to actually enforce that. The budget also includes a $5 million allocation toward Florida’s new “Make America Healthy Again” Commission, co-chaired by First Lady Casey DeSantis (associated with the Hope Florida Foundation diversion-of-public-dollars scandal) and Lt. Gov. Jay Collins. That commission will reportedly help align Florida with HHS Secretary RFK Jr.’s nationwide push to “make America healthy again” by targeting processed foods, banning vaccine mandates and ending water fluoridation. Florida State Universities Chancellor Ray Rodrigues’ paycheck

Ray Rodrigues the chancellor of Florida’s State University System, was already the highest-paid state employee with his more than $441K salary, but this month that financial lead grew when the SUS Board of Governors (mostly a bunch of DeSantis appointees; and isn’t SUS another apt acronym) approved a three-year contract extension

including a $600,000 base salary for Rodrigues with a chance at a 20 percent performance bonus. This makes Rodrigues the highest-paid state employee by far, according to the database of state employee salaries, with an effective date of Jan. 1. Compensation for whatever amount of time it took the CFO to compose this poem sh*tting on local journalists

Ingoglia has spent a not-insignificant amount of time on social media this year, crafting troll tweets on the taxpayer’s dime, including several targeting the Orlando Sentinel’s reporting and staff. We can assume even if it’s not Ingoglia typing out these tweets himself, it’s one of his state-employed staffers directed to carry on this tirade against reporters who are already struggling to make ends meet as they strive to provide reliable information to their communities. Legal costs to defend the state against lawsuits over poorly conceived laws

It’s been reported that the state government and agencies have contracted lawyers for their legal battles who bill upward of $750 an hour. And you can only imagine how costly that’s been for taxpayers as litigation over state laws targeting drag artists, the dreaded “woke” in higher education, lab-grown meat, gender-affirming care, etc., keep those lawyers busy.

Insulting paint job by the Florida Department of Transportation outside Pulse

As part of the DeSantis administration’s continued war against “woke,” the Department of Transportation this year decided that rainbow-striped crosswalks are “political” in nature and also, apparently, create an unsafe environment for drivers. In August, to the dismay of many in the community, the DOT painted over the rainbow crosswalk outside Pulse nightclub, which for years served as the closest thing to an actual memorial that survivors of the 2016 mass shooting got. Other rainbow crosswalks and similarly colorful traffic installations were also painted over, but this one really hit a nerve, for good reason. Florida Highway Patrol has also been surveilling the crosswalk site, continuing to arrest people who dare to “aggressively” chalk color onto the pavement. DeSantis’ DOGE-ing of Orange County

The actual money spent on these state DOGE/ FAFO/whatever investigations into counties like Orange is unclear, but the lack of any official audit findings on Orange County’s spending to share with the public only adds insult to injury. Ingoglia claimed there was nearly $200 million in the county budget that the state considered “excessive, wasteful spending.” But when pressed for specifics, or receipts, they didn’t have anything they were willing to share. Local government officials across the state have criticized this state-level DOGE effort for the same lack of clarity, evidence or methodology to back up claims of wasteful spending.

orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

[ arts + culture ]

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COURTESY PHOTO

Orlando drag performer Dollya Black left Dragula and now drag behind. And that’s only part of her epochal year BY MATTH EW MOYE R

ollya Black is no more. But it wasn’t an Extermination Challenge at the end of a Dragula episode that did her in; it was an act of self-preservation. This might seem counterintuitive for a performer seemingly at the height of her powers and

notoriety. But in the midst of a strong showing on the second season of buzzy Shudder/AMC reality competition The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula: Titans, Dollya Black walked away from the show and then from drag. And that’s only part of a pivotal year for this Orlando performer.

In the midst of this maelstrom year of tremendous personal change, she found that the armor of being Dollya “kind of wasn’t necessary anymore, and it was time to put it to rest,” Black tells Orlando Weekly in a rare interview. At first though, this seemed like an auspicious and long-overdue comeback. It would be the Orlando drag performer’s return to the wildly popular dark drag underworld of the Boulet Brothers-helmed reality competition for the all-star Dragula: Titans competition. Black, a longtime local performer renowned for horror-inspired looks and dizzying performances, came up in the drag scene as part of Black Haüs and had previously been a contestant on Season 3 of Dragula back in 2019, where she won runner-up. Aside from Black, 13 other horror- and alt-drag notables were competing to win the crown of “Queen of the Underworld” from Orlando’s Victoria Elizabeth Black. Things didn’t work out. As this very dramatic season of Titans unfolded, Black became weary of the conflicts and putting her “art on the chopping block” of reality television. She walked off the set mid-episode of the particularly heated “Last Supper Reunion” after a tense on-camera exchange with the Boulets. But that wouldn’t be all she was leaving behind. Toward the end of a weekly run of co-hosting viewing parties of Titans at Savoy with erstwhile Black Haüs sisters Victoria Elizabeth and Opulence Black, she let slip on stage that she would be quitting drag. For Black, it was about reclaiming her persona and keeping it for herself, and a realization that Dollya Black’s story, for now, was finished. Black says, “Doing that last show … I had performed ‘Everybody Dies’ when the finale happened for Season 3, and it was an incredibly emotional moment for me. I remember I got off stage and I fell into my partner at the time’s arms, and I was just so distraught about losing. And the juxtaposition to now, performing that same song as my final number was so cathartic. I looked at the audience and I was like, ‘Wow, I love Orlando. What a beautiful story, from start to finish.’ It felt complete, like it felt like I did what I needed to do.” But a stint on reality television and leaving drag were not even close to the biggest leaps for Black this year. She also began her transition journey. Black started hormone therapy in January after months of careful consideration. Then she came out publicly as a trans woman in June, Pride month. “When we filmed Dragula, I had the most beautiful conversations — I’m sure that some people reading this are going to be like, ‘What beautiful conversations?’ — with Priscilla Chambers and Jade Jolie just about existing. Being perceived feminine and what it feels like. When I was out in California filming, I started using the women’s restroom. That was a huge step for me. That opened the door for me to just be like, ‘I think this is how I want to exist.’ When I made it back from Dragula, I was like, ‘I think I’m ready to be Dakota,’” says Black. “It just felt really important to be visible during Pride Month this year, and also fuck Trump and fuck Ron DeSantis. I’m not going anywhere, and I’m not gonna just stop being trans.”

Reactions from friends and the community at large were roundly positive, if not exactly surprised. “All of my dolls in Orlando were like,‘Girl, gag. We were just waiting for you to realize it,’” says Black. “My friends have been so supportive. It’s just crazy how blessed I am in that regard. And you know, my trans-masc and trans-femme [friends] and the cis women in my life have built me up in a way that, when I started transitioning, it was like I didn’t have to build up this confidence. It was already there.” Though there are positive memories and truly memorable looks — like the stunning “Halloween House Party”and “Gothic Wedding”attire — Black says if she knew then what she knows now, she would never have returned to Dragula. “I just don’t think that I really identify with the brand anymore,”says Black.“Going back and doing it again, I was like, ‘Oh shit, this is not your vibe at all. Girl, this is not you.’” And even a cursory watch of that season of Dragula: Titans bears that conclusion out, which makes it all the more surprising that for several weeks in the autumn, Black co-hosted viewing parties at Savoy with Victoria and Opulence Black. Seeing the reality-television version of yourself on a big screen in front of a crowd had to be tough. But not only was it an emotional reunion for the three members of the Black Haüs family, it was a way for Black to “reclaim her experience on the show” and find closure. “Doing those Creature Features with Opulence and Victoria was such a blessing. They’ve been a part of my life since the beginning. My whole Orlando experience is intertwined with them. I would not be the person I am — or the performer that I was — I wouldn’t be any of that without the experiences and encouragement that they gave me and being able to come full circle,” remembers Black. “That night, after we did photos and the lights went off and people started exiting the theater, I looked at Victoria and Opulence, and I just thanked them. I’m so grateful for so many lessons and skills and memories made with two people who I know love me very much.” But this isn’t quite the end for Black on the airwaves. There’s still the matter of Central Florida drag stars-go-ghost hunting show Shook on the horizon, getting its Orlando watch party at Will’s Pub on Jan. 5. “Shook is such a fun project. We’re premiering it in January here in Orlando with the pilot episode,” says Black. “I’m not sure what the future holds with Shook. We want to film more episodes and continue to make it. But I host the show, and I haven’t exactly figured out how I want to host it. Do I host it as Dakota? Do I bring Dollya back from the grave only for Shook?” Questions of ghost-hunting and resurrection aside, looking forward to 2026, Black is content to take life as it comes. “I love to create. I would love to make looks for myself, curate photos. I really want to collaborate more and explore more modeling,” says Black. But then, she’s not really Dollya Black anymore. So for 2026, goodbye Dollya — and hello, Dakota Hartenstein. arts@orlandoweekly.com

orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

The highlights and the lowlights across the past year of covering theme parks, theater, cannabis and more of Orlando’s live active cultures Last December, I predicted that

2025 might prove to be a pivotal year for Central Florida’s arts and attractions industries, which then appeared poised at the precipice of either historic expansion or an epic implosion. In the end, both possibilities turned out to be somewhat true, as Orlando welcomed many exciting new experiences while bidding far too many bitter farewells. Here are the highlights and lowlights across my past year covering our community’s live active cultures. Without a doubt, the long-awaited debut of Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe was the theme park industry’s biggest event of the year, if not the century. I was lucky enough to be invited to pre-opening previews and lavish grand opening celebration (try to spot me in final episode of Peacock’s Epic Ride documentary) but you can judge my genuine love for the new park by the absurd amount of money I’ve spent on single-day admission over the past six months, in the ongoing absence of annual passes. Tragically, Kevin Zavala’s death aboard Stardust Racers (and other injury claims that have followed his family’s settlement with the park) has cast a shadow over that world-class coaster. And although Universal wisely restricted initial attendance to avoid a repeat of Universal Studios Florida’s infamous inaugural summer, with over 20,000 guests per day visiting over the holidays, Epic’s deficit of people-eating E-tickets is showing up in triple-digit wait times for the top rides. Happily, a massive new indoor Harry Potter broomstick ride, along with other fast-tracked additions, should alleviate Epic’s congestion over the coming years. Universal’s older parks are also receiving some much-need TLC as construction commences on replacements for USF’s Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and

STARDUST RACERS // PHOTO BY SETH KUBERSKY

IOA’s Lost Continent; also look for Volcano Bay to close next fall for a multi-month makeover. In Anaheim, Mickey went all out celebrating Disneyland’s 70th birthday with new entertainment and returning favorites, including the controversial first-ever Walt animatronic and celebrated Paint the Night parade, putting to shame the Magic Kingdom’s meager golden anniversary in 2021. But as Walt Disney World prepares to turn 55, we’re left looking back over a year marked by more endings than arrivals. EPCOT’s Test Track emerged from its second makeover with more impressive visuals, but even less educational value. Disney Starlight, Magic Kingdom’s first new nighttime parade in decades, turned out to not be worth the wait, with dazzling float designs undermined by uninspiring music and understaffing. And my most memorable WDW visits of 2025 were bittersweet final pilgrimages to MuppetVision 4-D and the Rivers of America (with Disney Legend Tom Nabbe, Disneyland’s original Tom Sawyer, who is remarkably OK with his island’s extinction), both of which were evicted for upcoming Pixar attractions. Outside of Orlando’s attractions, the cruise industry was the shining star of the Sunshine State’s year in tourism. Most of the major cruise lines launched their latest mega-ships out of Florida’s ports, and I was fortunate to sail aboard during some celebrity-studded christening celebrations. MSC stepped up to the big leagues with their ginormous World America, and announced its sister ship World Atlantic will sail out of Port Canaveral starting in 2027; I still say stick to their exclusive Yacht Club, even on these newer vessels. My first experience

aboard Princess Cruises didn’t quite live up to their stellar reputation for service, but I was still spellbound by Star Princess’ immersive at-sea outpost of L.A.’s famous Magic Castle. Best of all, Norwegian Cruise Line knocked me out with their authorized Prince musical production and cirque spectacular, which I was able to follow from NCL’s Tampa-area rehearsal studio to the Aqua’s main stage. Within the world of theater, by all rights the highlight of my year should have been my trip to New York City to see Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot — my all-time favorite play, which I’d previously seen starring Nathan Lane and Bill Irwin, and Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen — with Bill & Ted alumni Alex Winter and Keanu Reeves. However, director Jamie Lloyd’s visually striking production proved both frustratingly expectation-subverting and fan-servicing to a fault. The expensive experience emphasized once again that Orlando offers theatrical experiences that equal or outdo anything around Times Square, whether we’re talking about some of the terrific national tours that came through the Dr. Phillips Center this year (including Water for Elephants and Hadestown) or Off-Broadway-worthy revivals from local companies like Theater West End. Sadly, the same issue that has plagued Orlando’s arts community throughout recent years only became more acute in 2025: the lack of affordable venues for nomadic troupes to rehearse and perform in. Despite the ongoing space squeeze there were several bright spots, as some cultural keystones happily received new homes or rejuvenated existing institutions. Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts sadly said goodbye

to founder Chris Cortez due to health issues, but got to move into the coveted former Winter Park Library building. Winter Park Playhouse is performing their classic musicals at Orlando Shakes while major upgrades are underway at their Orange Avenue storefront, which they were finally able to purchase with Tourism Development Tax funding after 23 years. Imagine Performing Arts Center continued to thrive in the Oviedo Mall, providing a platform for challenging works like Ensemble Co.’s chilling revival of Bryony Lavery’s Frozen, which was arguably superior to the one I co-produced years ago. And Theater on the Edge happily reopened with emotionally affecting mountings of Birds of North America and The Sunset Limited to celebrate co-founder Samantha DiGeorge’s recovery from cancer. Unfortunately, the venue victories of 2025 feel outweighed by the list of losses, starting last winter with Orlando Fringe’s exit from their ArtSpace stages above Church Street, following floods and other downtown plagues. The organization carried forward with a successful May festival, and their Orlando Out Fest gracefully transitioned into The Center’s Q Fest, but the move curtailed much of Fringe’s year-round programming. Currently, the ex-ArtSpace is temporarily occupied by Renaissance Theatre Co., but reopening plans for The Ren’s permanent building near Loch Haven — which was shuttered by the city during the Halloween season — remain TBA at the moment. We lost photographer and arts advocate Patrick Kahn, along with his Snap! Gallery; Jeanine Taylor is retiring from her Sanford folk art gallery; and the long list of restaurants and bars that announced their closures this year includes long-running live music venues like Tanqueray’s and Muldoon’s Saloon. Personally, the final bow that hit me hardest was Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows, which not only served up delicious hens with their whodunits, but served as an important safety net and launching pad for countless local actors. Finally, if all these dizzying highs and lows in arts and attractions make you want to spark one up, don’t look to the cannabis industry for a calm and quiet year in review. 2025 began with the aftermath of recreational marijuana’s defeat at the ballot box, before new restrictions stuck into this fall’s federal shutdown legislation recriminalized the rapidly growing market for hemp-derived THC. Then, President Trump upended everything again with his recent executive order rescheduling reefer like other prescription drugs. Amidst all these wild swings, Orlando’s MMJ community continued to expand, as I watched Goldflower open their doors, attended one of Leafwell’s free medical card events, and toured Insa’s cutting-edge growing facility with CEO Peter Gallagher; hat tip to their new 30 mg Energy tablets, which helped power me through some 30,000-step theme park days. Whether it’s weed or the wider world, things appear unlikely to become any more stable in the upcoming year. So as 2025 comes to a close, I say smoke ’em if you’ve got ’em. skubersky@orlandoweekly.com

orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

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The best restaurants that opened in Orlando this year BY FA IYAZ KARA

et’s face it, after an extraordinary 2024 when tasting menu giants Ômo by Jônt and Sorekara — along with future perennial stalwarts Coro, Smokemade Meats, Mosonori and Mills Market — lent this city a rarefied credibility, living up to last year’s openings was going to be a next-to-impossible task. In fact, 2025 stood out for its numerous, and notable, closures like 310 Park South, Blu on the Avenue, Hanamizuki Japanese Restaurant, Chez Vincent, Little Saigon, Soco and Bar Kada, to name just a few. But the notables that did open wowed, with more than a few firmly ensconcing Orlando as a serious food city of the South. Here, then, are the very best restaurants to have opened in 2025. No. 1: June

Opened July The contemporary Yucatecan restaurant in the corazón of Thornton Park is charged with a cosmopolitan CDMX pulse, but it’s the verve of chefs Jason Campbell and Nick Grecco that sustains June’s inimitable energy. The depth of detail and technique the pair exhibit, be it in the sextet of salsas served with a rustic 18

guac finished with herb oil, or drippy-lush, carnitas-style duck confit cooked with condensed milk, Mexican Coke and chilies à la Enrique Olvera then seared and roasted on the wood-fired grill, elevate the duo into the pantheon of Orlando’s most gifted culinarians. Most dishes, in fact, are licked by the flames of Florida oak, notably a fillet of Hawaiian kanpachi set in a pool of bloodred guajillo-tomato butter; chili-buttered lump crab on tostadas slicked with brown butter aioli, and an absolutely bonkers bone-out short rib set in a demi-glace fortified with ancho chiles, black vinegar and more south-of-the-border cola. Veg options like sweet potatoes with miso mole and butter-braised cabbage with onion soubise foam are anything but afterthoughts. When Campbell and Grecco immerse themselves in live-fire cooking at the soon-to-open Eastwood in Mills 50, expect it to be on this list next year. (700 E. Washington St., juneorlando.com) No. 2: Sparrow

Opened May Jason and Sue Chin can do no wrong. The 2025 James Beard

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

JUNE // PHOTO BY MATT KELLER LEHMAN

Award finalists for Outstanding Restaurateur opened not one but two restaurants this year, both of which made this list. Sparrow places Reyes Mezcaleria executive chef Wendy Lopez and beverage director Lorena Castro front and center in a Euroinspired wine bar with a mid-mod manner meshed with a sultry, after-dark aesthetic. The menu glitters with dishes drawing on French, Italian, Portuguese and, of course, Spanish influences. Of note: a sole meunière prepared as Escoffier intended, an earthy mushroom pâté splashed with the sweetness of Madeira, and house-made lumache pasta smothered in vodka sauce and spiked with nduja and Calabrian chili. Castro’s curated wine list and cocktail program are just as striking and, much like Sparrow’s fare, gives you wings. (807 N. Orange Ave., sparroworlando.com) No. 3: Osteria Ester

Opened December Osprey chef Michael Cooper helms this latest concept from Jason and Sue Chin that pays tribute to Cooper’s grandmother with studied and technically proficient riffs on Italian-American comfort fare. His bone-in veal chop parmigiana is the stuff a cheese-filled dream is made of, one that ends with an equally fanciful butterscotch budino. Just as noteworthy as the kitchen’s seductive creations is the alluring interior revamp of the former Soco space. Also attractive: the price point of Italian varietals curated by Lorena Castro. Cocktails, like the cacio e pepe 50/50, are seriously fun. (629 E. Central Blvd., osteriaester.com)

grilled octopus served on a tabletop charcoal burner and beefy tostones tarts. The decor has been thoughtfully designed, right down to the gorgeous, and heavy, stone tableware. (7347 Lake Underhill Road, lima1535.com) No. 8: Zen Dumpling

Opened February Given the spate of joints specializing in soupfilled, steamed and pan-fried meat pockets, Orlando may as well just start calling itself Dumpling City. This Jacksonville-based outfit’s show kitchen where dumplings are prepped gives off Din Tai Fung vibes, as do the impeccably crafted xiaolongbao, from their delicate wrappers right down to the burst of flavorful broth.“Tapas” items like beef pancake rolls and wok-fired noodle dishes are also worth exploring. A second location in Altamonte Springs opened in December. (423 N. Alafaya Trail, zendumplings.com) No. 9: Talay

TALAY // PHOTO BY MATT KELLER LEHMAN

No. 4: Nuri’s Tavern

Opened February Chefs Jason Campbell and Nick Grecco, the duo behind the culinary chemistry at June, spent more than two months and many sleepless nights experimenting and tinkering with a recipe to perfect their tavern-style pizza. The result: thin, crackly-crusted pies offered in “party cut” 12-inch rounds — “so that customers can have a beer in one hand and a square in the other without having to put either down,” says Campbell. The vodka pie, as well as the pepperoni and jalapeño with sweet-sticky chili crisp, are can’t-miss, but don’t pass on the incredible wings, chopped salad or crispy eggplant. “It’s modern Pizza Hut for millennials,” says a friend of mine. The place is festooned with knickknacks and memorabilia, so don’t lose sight of the sweet ending — soft serve. (63 E. Pine St., nuristavern.com) No. 5: Slap! Hand-Ripped Noodles

Opened November Slap! does just that. Orlando’s newest noodle house features a lantern-filled room from whence hand-ripped noodles of the biang biang variety are whacked and thwacked. Noodle bowls are heaped with enough chili crisp to choke David Chang, prior to a pour of hot oil. Whether it’s the signature three-way chili slap noodles with the short rib add-on or the vegetarian option, there are no bad choices here. More good choices: skewers of crispy beef and

chicken gizzards; crispy, meat-filled pancakes; and the best chili oil beef and onion dumplings. (6532 Carrier Drive, instagram.com/slap. noodles.usa) No. 6: Corner Chophouse

Opened September The most prominent corner in Hannibal Square was snagged by one of the South’s most prominent restaurant groups earlier this year — Indigo Road Hospitality, led by four-time James Beard Award nominee Steve Palmer. This brand-new concept, a Prohibition Era-styled chophouse, fires budget-busting USDA Prime cuts and seafood selections befitting a high-end steakhouse. But sides like bone marrow dusted with Aleppo pepper, smoked beef tartare with black garlic and a beautifully presented bluefin tuna crudo, augment the beefed-up menu. The chocolate cake slice is as scrummy as it is photogenic. (558 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, cornerchophouse.com) No. 7: Lima 1535

Opened August That Lima 1535 is the only local restaurant to serve the rarely found rocoto relleno makes it deserving of being on this list alone, but there’s so much more than the stuffed Andean pepper this fetching Lake Underhill Peruvian restaurant brings to the table. For instance: lomo saltado with wok-fired alpaca, herb-marinated

Opened March Riding on the coattails of the highly lauded Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient Isan Zaap, this NoDo looker presents a menu of refined, gorgeously plated, seafood-leaning Thai fare from an equally gorgeous space. It’s a unique take on Thai cuisine not before seen in the city and exemplified by the hor mok talay and its mix of seafood in red curry custard and coconut milk served in a coconut. A corridor projecting holographic waves washing over the floor leads the way to watering hole Noir Bar, a moody speakeasy connected to the restaurant. (861 N. Orange Ave., talayorlando.com) No. 10: Rawsha Mediterranean Cuisine

Opened March Orlando’s first Iraqi restaurant has become a draw for its ridiculously succulent “Iraqi kebab” fashioned from lamb, lamb fat and a secret blend of baharat. A mixed grill highlighted by flavor-packed chicken kofta is another must-order, as are the “crispy” shawarma and Baghdadi wings. Hummus here veers toward the creamier side, while baba ghanoush isn’t heavy on the smoke. The beverage of choice with Rawsha’s heady eats: calming cardamom tea. (8956 Turkey Lake Road, rawshamediterraneancuisine.com) Honorable Mention: Perla’s Pizza

Opened September The second go-round of Michael Collantes’ nonconformist pie house was resuscitated and reanimated in a new location (Winter Park) with a new vibe, but with the same brand of individualist takes on pizza that made Perla’s v.1.0 such a hit. What Collantes calls “Florida Man pizzas” get eccentric combinations of topping like bananas, kimchi, Takis, corn and pineapple jam. Perla’s v.2.0 adds the thumping vibe of a vinyl record bar to the pie house experience. (959 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, perlaspizzafl.com)

Other notable 2025 openings: A Gourmet Chinese Cuisine — renovated interior and revamped “Chuan Lu Garden” fare Black Coffee-Café Negro Bistro

— Latin-ish concept by Univision personality Jose “El Negro” Figueroa Bourbon Steak — chi-chi chophouse by celebrated celeb chef Michael Mina The Burger Vault — superb, flamebroiled, all-halal better burgers The Chapman — Florida-centric fare that taps into the history of Winter Park Chayhana — bringing the delights of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan to Altamonte Cupid’s Hot Dogs — all-beef wieners and arepas in Longwood Daniel Gabor’s Alpine Bar & Grill

— German and alpine comfort staples in Ocoee Grappolo Cucina — fresh-made pastas, Neapolitan pizzas and handmade dolci on Park Avenue Gyukatsu Rose — flash-fried beef cutlets self-seared tableside Imperial on Park — wine, beer, cocktails and a food menu from the former chef of Dexter’s Thornton Park Jala — Indian fine dining off Park Avenue Ji Bei Chuan — rice noodles and ramen in the tourist sector H&H Brazilian Steakhouse — churrascaria by way of Beverly Hills Leiah — dolled-up tasting menu fare on the ground floor of the Hilton Garden Inn Lorelei Wine Bar — Riviera-styled wine bar from the pair behind Death in the Afternoon and Suffering Bastard Luca Turci — a credible roster of serious Italian fare Mirchi Indian Street Food — a fusion of flamboyance, flavor and straight fire Moa Kai Hawaiian Diner — tapping into Hawaiian food and culture Outpost Neighborhood Tavern — a fab place for dining, drinks, drag and sports Pig Floyd’s Urban BBQ — “BoriChino” barbecue comes to Winter Park Pho Bar — signature homemade pho with noodles made daily from scratch Southern Fow l — breakfast and lunch fare from Va Propst Sushi Izuki— a modern meets traditional omakase house Tamale Co. Modern Mexican Kitchen — hand-crafted tamales and

modern Mexican street fare

fkara@orlandoweekly.com orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

[ food + drink]

recently reviewed

$$$$ $$$$ $$$$ $$$$

$10 OR LESS $10-$15 $15-$25 $25 OR MORE

Price range reflects the average cost of one dinner entree. Bakeries, ice cream shops, etc. reflect relative cost for one person. Search hundreds more reviews at orlandoweekly.com.

DANIEL GABOR’S ALPINE BAR & GRILL

OUTPOST NEIGHBORHOOD TAVERN

PERLA’S PIZZA

LIMA 1535

German cuisine inspired by Alpine comfort staples is the draw at this Ocoee bar and grill, where CIA-trained chef Daniel Gabor plates deftly executed creations from schnitzels and sausages to soups and spätzles. Black Forest cake is an absolute must. Closed Mondays. (reviewed Dec. 17) 1568 Maguire Road, Ocoee, 407-347-3020, alpinebarandgrill.com, $$$$

Nonconformist pizzas and a thumping soundtrack keep it lively at this reboot of chef Michael Collantes’ pizzeria. “Florida Man pizza” options include the “It’s Bananas” pizza with pepperoni, Calabrese peppers and bananas, and the “Hawaiian Punch” with sweet (pineapple jam), smoky (bacon), fiery (jalapeños) and pickled (onions) elements. If it’s the weekend, the banana pudding is a must. Open daily. (reviewed Dec. 10) 959 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 689444-7143, perlaspizzafl.com, $$

H MART

The massive grocery store houses aisles full of Korean and Asian goodies, as well as a seafood market that’s worth the trip alone. The perpetually crowded food court, meanwhile, is a hub for the city’s food-crazed thanks to the vendors hawking everything from viral desserts and Korean hot dogs to katsu and infernal noodle soups. (reviewed Dec. 3) 7501 W. Colonial Drive, 407-853-8010, hmart.com, $$

MAZALA PIJJA

Indian-style pizzas and fusion spins on sports bar classics, Italian pasta and Indo-Chinese mainstays are served out of this backroom space inside the Laxmi Plaza on South OBT. Closed Monday. (reviewed Nov. 26) 1155 Doss Ave., 407-6740778, mazalapijja.com, $$

CORNER CHOPHOUSE

Pricey, Prohibition Era-style steakhouse in the heart of Hannibal Square beefs it up with prime chops, shareables, sizable desserts and a lively scene. Open daily. (reviewed Nov. 19) 558 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, 321-972-2383, cornerchophouse.com, $$$$

MOA KAI HAWAIIAN DINER

Moa Kai’s plate lunches and classic island fare carve a slice of paradise in the eastern reaches of Mills 50. Sidle up to a leather stool and bury your head in loco moco, char siu-filled manapua, fried spam musubi or sweet kalbi. Deep-fried malasadas are the way to end. Tropical cocktails are also offered. Closed Sunday. (reviewed Nov. 12) 2217 E. Colonial Drive, 407-270-7916, moakaidiner.com, $$

The LGBTQ-friendly sports bar near Lake Eola flows with beer and queer cheer, but the menu is less sports bar and more Grandma’s country chicken. Of note: meatloaf meatballs, pickle juicebrined fried chicken and a “Southern comfort” burger loaded with pimiento cheese, hot honey and chow-chow. Open daily. (reviewed Oct. 29) 227 N. Eola Drive, 407-203-0447, outpostorl.com, $$

The Lake Underhill restaurant plates stirring renditions of Peruvian delicacies, most notably the ever-so-rare rocoto relleno. From tostone tarts filled with lomo saltado to entrées featuring alpaca, the dishes here are all executed flawlessly. Shortbread-like alfajores are a must. There’s a full bar as well, offering pisco sours and more. Closed Mondays. (reviewed Oct. 22) 7347 Lake Underhill Road, 407-719-3474, lima1535.com, $$$

JALA

Jala takes over a space that’s seen numerous concepts come before it, but what they tout as “modern” Indian cuisine is classic to the core with a bit of smoke and theatrics. That’s not to say that such dishes as pani puri, dal makhani, kadai chicken and gajar halwa aren’t worth devouring. Open daily. (reviewed Oct. 15) 155 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park, 407-755-3300, jalarestaurant.com, $$$

THE CAIRO EXPRESS

Egyptian staples like koshary, hawawshi, sausagelike mombar and herbaceous molokhia stew are executed with aplomb from chef Gigi Elgharbawy’s food truck. Don’t pass on lemony grape leaves or rustic baba ghanouj. Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday. (reviewed Oct. 8) 658 Wymore Road, Winter Park, 407-408-8824, instagram.com/ the_cairo_expressfl, $$

3155 S Orange Ave, Ste 101 Orlando | (407) 613-5000 Catering Available with all the ﬁxings for your Corporate, Personal & Special Event

JUNE

The contemporary Mexican restaurant in Thornton Park wows, thanks to the chemistry of chefs Jason Campbell and Nick Grecco. The menu is full of inspired dishes, most of which are licked by flames of Florida oak: Hawaiian kanpachi, a bonkers bone-out short rib, and drippy, luscious carnitasstyle duck. Veg options, like sweet potatoes with miso mole and butter-braised cabbage with onion soubise foam, are shareables of worth. Closed Mondays. (reviewed Oct. 1) 700 E. Washington St., 321-206-1243, juneorlando.com, $$$$

BURGER VAULT

All-halal burger joint fires up some top-notch patties with a crisp char. Smashburgers these are not, but thicker 5-ounce rounds offered in single and double options. Of note: the fiery

Free burger includes base price of byo or recipe burger (of equal or lesser value). does not include extra charges. Cannot be combined with any other oﬀer or discount. excludes the classic combo, big deal & shake happy hour. Limit one coupon per account, per order. No copies. No cash value. Must be logged in to redeem online PROMO CODE "OWEEKLY"

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[ food + drink]

recently reviewed

$$$$ $$$$ $$$$ $$$$

$10 OR LESS $10-$15 $15-$25 $25 OR MORE

Price range reflects the average cost of one dinner entree. Bakeries, ice cream shops, etc. reflect relative cost for one person. Search hundreds more reviews at orlandoweekly.com.

[continued from page 21] volcano burger. Get it with fries done your way (suggestion: cheese sauce, caramelized onions, jalapeños and beef bacon). Shakes are solid. Open daily. (reviewed Sept. 24) 520 W. State Road 436, Altamonte Springs, 321-972-1646, burgervaultorlando.com, $$

over-the-top takes on tacos don’t always translate to success. Best to go straightforward with chips, dips and traditional tastes — like the birria, chorizo or simpler fish tacos. Steer clear of the “margarita.” Open all day every day. (reviewed Aug. 13) 1881 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 321-203-2578, tacoslab.com, $

SPARROW

NAMI

The Euro-inspired wine bar in the North Quarter is the latest from James Beard Award finalists Jason and Sue Chin with an incredible menu of eats — charred eggplant, sole meunière, lumache alla vodka and arroz negro with head-on prawns — by chef-partner Wendy Lopez. A stellar wine list and Spanish-leaning cocktails are curated by Lorena Castro. Together, the pair work wonders. Don’t skip on Basque cheesecake or chocolate cake. Closed Sunday and Monday. (reviewed Sept. 17) 807 N. Orange Ave., 407-203-8524, sparroworlando.com, $$$

HIGH TIDE HARRY’S

An Orlando staple for more than three decades, High Tide Harry’s is the place to feast on crab, fried seafood and fish. Supplement platters of king, Dungeness and snow crab with conch fritters, fried clam strips and charbroiled oysters. Key lime pie is more creamy and sweet than tart. Open daily. (reviewed Sept. 10) 4645 S. Semoran Blvd., 407273-4422, hightideharrys.com, $$$

JI BEI CHUAN

Area noodlers can get their fix at this south Orlando outpost of the casual noodle house chain that boasts over 400 locations in China. Specializing in simple, authentic Chinese rice noodle and ramen dishes and known for its chicken and fish maw noodle soup, the menu also features pan-Asian bites like takoyaki, Thai-style soups and tasty Korean fried chicken. Open all day every day. (reviewed Sept. 3) 7750 Palm Parkway, 407-7781435, orlandojbc.com, $$

TRATTO

Soulful scratch Italian fare lures Orlando diners to this casual Avalon Park eatery run by kitchen and life partners Mabel Munoz and Alvaro Ramirez. Expect well executed dishes anchored in bold flavors like short rib with truffle risotto and beef ragù with paccheri. Must-tries include ratatouille, exceptional Detroit-style pizza and a porchetta special available Fridays and Saturdays. Closed Monday. (reviewed Aug. 27) 425 S. Avalon Park Blvd., 407-440-2140, trattomodernitalian.com, $$$

TACO’S LAB Fast casual taqueria in a stripped-down west Winter Park setting proves popular, although its more

Exceptional Japanese inspired cuisine awaits at this Michelin-recommended restaurant in the Lake Nona Wave Hotel. The vibe is polished and urbane, a swirl of pretty people and plates. Expect high price tags and high quality, including worth-it splurges like A5 wagyu snow beef or whole lobster with smoked chili fried rice. Popular choices include lobster doughnuts with matcha, crudo and maki dishes, and any cocktail from the inventive beverage program. Closed Sunday and Monday. (reviewed July 30) 6004 Artist Ave., 407-395-4857, namilakenona.com, $$$$

PHO BAR Quality takes on Vietnamese classics draw Mills 50 diners to this buzzy, casual outpost of the small South Florida chain. While pho with 24-hour broth takes center stage, don’t leave without sampling steamed rice cakes, grilled satay squid, or grilled pork and noodles. Bonus points for its full bar, friendly staff and attempt at off-street parking. Open every day. (reviewed July 23) 1012 E. Colonial Drive, 407-955-9394, phobar.co, $$

TURULL’S KITCHEN & BAR Those craving traditional Spanish flavors could do worse than the basic, Barcelona-inspired bites at this Florida Mall adjacent strip maller. Think usual-suspect tapas, including solid renditions of croquetas de bacalao, pan con tomate and gambas al ajillo, plus a range of paellas, lamb, steak, even whole suckling pig. The vibe is casual and set to the beat of frequent live music. Closed Monday and Tuesday. (reviewed July 16) 1319 Florida Mall Ave., 689-240-2130, instagram.com/ turullskitchenandbar, $$$

SEND SUNSHINE ANYTIME!

WAVE SUSHI Twisted but tasty takes on sushi feature at this fast-casual spot inside Maitland Social — think spicy salmon burgers with rice cake buns, soft-shell crab tacos with nori “tortillas,” sushi burritos, sushi hot dogs, sushi pizza and more. Do order the sloppily delicious crunch wrap. For those frightened by the unfamiliar, there is also a selection of more traditional maki that’s fresh and a safe bet. Closed Mondays. (reviewed July 9) 360 E. Horatio Ave., Maitland, 321972-1880, waveasianbistro.com, $$$

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[ film + tv ] find out about Signal. (Peacock)

Premieres Monday:

Members Only: Palm Beach — The latest reality opulence fest is set in Florida’s very own Palm Beach County, where common sense and good taste take a back seat to obscene wealth. And remember, these are the people we’re fighting redistricting to hold onto. (Netflix)

Premieres Tuesday:

RUN AWAY // PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX

COUCHSURFING

Streaming premieres you won’t want to miss this week. BY STEVE S CH N EIDER

Premieres Wednesday:

Goodbye June — Family members gather around the bedside of their dying mother (Helen Mirren) in a film Kate Winslet directed from a script by her son, Joe Anders. Boy, wonder what she thought when he handed her that one. Did it go straight onto the refrigerator, or did she get the hint? (Netflix) Tom Segura: Teacher — The dudebro comic performs in a special that’s reaching streaming in record time, considering it was filmed

in front of a live audience just last month. But that’s how you have to do it if you want to make room for timely routines like “Dems Will Never Cave on the Shutdown.” (Netflix)

Premieres Thursday:

Christmas Gameday — The options for avoiding your family are copious this year, with Netflix streaming the Cowboys versus the Commanders at 1 p.m. and the Lions versus the Vikings at 4:30, followed by Prime Video getting into the act with the Broncos versus

the Chiefs at 8:15. And if that doesn’t do the trick, there’s always a long ride in the country with Christopher Walken.

Premieres Friday:

Cover Up — Retrace the career of crusading investigative journalist Seymour Hersh, who exposed our military’s atrocities in Vietnam and Iraq. Critics have derided his reliance on anonymous sources — in case you were wondering why the film ends with Susie Wiles singing “The Man That Got Away.” (Netflix) Stranger Things 5 Volume 2 — The run-up to the big series finale on New Year’s Eve consists of three episodes that pick up on Vecna’s threats to use children to transform the world. Which might explain why the leading market on Polymarket for the last month has been “Is Vecna Whitney Houston?” (Netflix)

Premieres Saturday:

The Copenhagen Test — Old Shang-Chi himself, Simu Liu, plays a Chinese-American intelligence analyst whose brain gets hacked, affording our enemies a ringside seat to his daily experiences. Bet they ask for their money back when they

Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story — There’s already been a Hulu series about Ruby Franke, the parenting expert who was found guilty of horrifically abusing her own children. So now we get a documentary about her professional partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, who is doing time as her accomplice. Franke was brought up on six charges of aggravated child abuse, but Hildebrandt faced only four — I guess because she merely tortured someone else’s offspring. And if that seems unfair to you, you must not have done much of your shopping in physical stores this Christmas. (Netflix) Ricky Gervais: Mortality — In his latest stand-up special, the gleeful provocateur continues his recent focus on the inevitability of his eventual demise. Just try not to be distracted by the picture-in-picture of a trans woman eating popcorn. (Netflix)

Premieres Wednesday, Dec. 31:

Stranger Things — Numerous Greater Orlando multiplexes are showing this two-hour series finale tonight, but you can just stay home and watch it the old-fashioned way if you don’t want the experience ruined by a bunch of chatty drunks. OK, by a bunch of chatty drunks you don’t know! (Netflix)

Premieres Thursday, Jan. 1:

Run Away — And in a reassuring bit of continuity, the new year begins with — what else — a Harlan Coben adaptation. This one focuses on a dad who fights to retrieve his daughter from a shadowy drug underworld. And just in time too, because I hear you can come down with a serious case of TDS in those places. (Netflix)

TACOS & VIBES? SAY LESS.

Stop by Tacos My Güey for signature tacos, ice-cold horchata, or a refreshing margarita. Visit our newest location: 888 City Walk Ln #1006.

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

Hannah Stokes Right Where I Belong Raised Eden Records

Busy local singer-songwriter Hannah Stokes at last released debut album Right Where I Belong this summer, and the wait was more than worth it. This sensual and smooth collection of jazz-inflected folky confessionals shows her relentless gigging has paid off in terms of confidence and style. I’m With Her Wild and Clear and Blue Rounder

All-star folk ensemble I’m With Her — Aoife O’Donovan, Sarah Jarosz and Sara Watkins — is only one-third Orlandoan (O’Donovan) but we’re claiming them. And this is quite the score. Wild is an ethereal meld of folk and bluegrass with the members’ high lonesome voices.

15 MOST FESTIVE

PHOTO BY MATTHEW MOYER // FESTIVE EDIT BY PEDRO MACIAS

Orlando Weekly’s music writers present a highly subjective list of 15 albums that set the tone in Orlando BY ORLANDO WEEK LY CO N T RIB U TO RS

f you’re done listening to Christmas music — but before you decide, why don’t you give stealth capitalist critique “Santa’s Rap”by The Treacherous 3 one more spin? — check out this rundown of 15 local music releases you need to acquaint yourself with. OW’s music writers argued it out and here’s the result. 0 Miles Per Hour Shell Armageddon Records

As 0 Miles Per Hour has evolved as a band, so has their sound. In an almost complete turnaround from their 2019 debut single, “Chicas,” the group’s latest album, Shell, trades indie leanings for something far more raw and profoundly angsty. This newly complex, Title Fight-esque release speaks to the future of the band, defined by heavy guitar riffs, gnarly breakdowns and an abundance of screamed vocals. Bobby’s Daughter Heavy Heart Self-released

Heavy Heart is seven tracks of elegant synth allure. The songs are richly stroked with a 1980s palette but favor the supple dream states of Cocteau Twins and Kate Bush over nervy newwave angularity. Although highly stylistic, the album is an exercise more in timeless sophistication than art-school flash. This is the work of an experienced artist, not a freshman hobbyist.

Cat Ridgeway Sprinter Self-released

Cat Ridgeway’s latest album, Sprinter, showcases a new, rockier sound and deep emotional resonance for the local fave singer-songwriter. Described by Ridgeway as “indie rock for overthinkers,” Sprinter might just be her strongest musical statement yet. Crimesididntcommit Made to Fade Self-released

She may claim to be Made to Fade, but on this new album, Central Florida darkwave artist Crimesididntcommit demands permanence. This 12-track album proves that raw is law — angsty, unfiltered and garish; a testament to trans resilience in a time of fear and uncertainty in DeSantis’ Florida. Damage Synthology Self-released

Recorded at a promising time when Damage were beginning to tour regionally and play alongside legends like Adrenalin O.D., Dead Kennedys, Battalion of Saints and SNFU, Synthology is a bit of both Orlando music history and ground-breaking punk. Punk rock and synthesizers are so historically divergent as to be almost mutually exclusive, especially in the

1980s. But Damage dared to break and blur those boundaries, wielding keytars like cudgels. Debt Neglector Kinda Rips SmartPunk Records

Orlando’s Debt Neglector reaffirms our love (and desperate need) for punk rock with their latest release, Kinda Rips. Raw and rebellious, it’s equal parts political and personal — tearing down fascists, challenging capitalism and unpacking the fears of fatherhood in a perfectly punchy 13 tracks in 34 minutes. Derek Dunn To Love and Leave America at the Same Time Cosmo Sonic Collective

Longtime local experimentalist Dunn stepped out on his own with a vision quest in search of not so much the style but the soul of Americana. He tapped a rich, ancient vein and conjured a romantic American spirit that lives now more in lore than in real life. It’s a nice thought, and a gorgeous soundtrack. Isaiah Falls LVRS Paradise (Side A) Roc Nation

From the songwriting to the singing to the sound, Falls’aesthetic is honed and locked-in here. With Side A as an auspicious harbinger that’s equal parts feeling and swagger, LVRS Paradise is well on its way to being an opus that cements him as a young contender on the R&B vanguard. Fast Preacher “Full Moon” Self-released

Fast Preacher’s latest single, “Full Moon,” is full of rhythm that will make you bob your head while asking, “Where have I heard this before?” The tune by Daniel Hanson, head Preacher, has a melody that feels familiar, yet unexpected. A modern classic, in other words.

Pig the Gemini Lover Girl Self-released

The Cranberries-sampling, hopelessly romantic Orlando MC delivered a near-flawless mini-album for the lustful and the lonely. And it got heads turning far outside the city limits. The Sourdrops Just Throw It In! Ragdoll Records

The Sourdrops are saving Orlando music; though my brother’s friend Nick really did not think so. Just Throw It In is classic raucous jangle madness that Nick sadly doesn’t understand, but Lou from Ragdoll Records sure does. Drops’ frontpeople Kate and Matty singing is perhaps the sweetest thing in the world Tele and the Ghost of Our Lord The Jukebox Has Gone Sentient Godless America

Wielding an often confounding sense of the absurd and a technician’s precision in songwriting, Matt Kamm as Tele and the Ghost of Our Lord has achieved a rare alchemy by allowing the disparate expressions of his musical history and personal mythology to coalesce on The Jukebox Has Gone Sentient. A Frankenstein’s monster with the face of Van Dyke Parks and the quick-witted grace of a rodeo clown, this album is by turns eerie, ebullient and thrillingly silly. Trivium Struck Dead Roadrunner Records

Struck Dead, released appropriately on Halloween, serves as a sonic elegy of sorts, a goodbye to the past (and drummer Alex Bent) and the start of a new creative chapter. Or it’s pure feral rage. Six of one, half-dozen of the other. — Azlyn Cato, Ashton Colbert, Ida V. Eskamani, Maisie Haney, Grayson Keglovic, Bao Le-Huu, Anthony Mauss, Matthew Moyer

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941-220-6741 HAPPYHOMEMORTGAGE.COM 1401 TOWN PLAZA CT. WINTER SPRINGS, FL 32708 28

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CHRIS CORTEZ // PHOTO BY JIM LEATHERMAN

OK, adorable miscreants. It’s my closing column of the year, so that of course means that it’s TLU’s annual, unbelievably exciting and inarguably definitive Undie Awards honoring 2025’s standouts in local music. And this year, the flowers go to …

THE 2025 UNDIES

Best scene service: Chris Cortez He spearheaded independent jazz venue Blue Bamboo first into prominence and then into a new, high-profile location this summer against steep odds. Then in October, the longtime Boo icon shocked when he stepped away to battle brain cancer. Thank you for everything you did, Chris. You will be missed. Most hyperlocal release: 407 F.R. Homegrown EDM artists Arina Krondeva and Propah Ganda handily win this one with an excellent EP that 1) is built on field recordings of downtown, 2) features a song named after famous Lake Eola goose Lucy and 3) proudly picks up the mantle of Orlando breaks. It doesn’t get any more Orlando than this. Best music campaign: Swamp Xistas Practically no local music groups are more dedicated to community service than Beth McKee’s Swamp Sistas. But this year, they outdid even themselves with Power Lines. As Swamp Xistas, this even more expanded corps of benevolence launched the yearlong singles release series to raise funds for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Their second single, “One Step Closer,” just dropped last Friday. Best musical monument: Posthumous Richard Sherfey album Former longtime Orlando musician CJ Mask proved himself both a devoted friend and an inspired music director when he took on the

It’s TLU’s annual, unbelievably exciting and inarguably definitive Undie Awards honoring 2025’s standouts in local music. And this year, the flowers go to … herculean task of turning demo fragments from dearly departed local Americana figure Richard Sherfey into a finished and deluxe album. Rendered with a gusto that matches Sherfey’s soulful croon and printed as a gatefold vinyl album, the recently released No Distance is both labor of love and extraordinary feat. CJ Mask made it happen. Best scene gateway: OGRC’s Youth to the Front concerts This year, the increasingly seminal Orlando Girls Rock Camp have upped their game with their Youth to the Front shows. As a matinee concert series open to all ages, these nurturing events are safe spaces that give Orlando’s youth early, almost unprecedented access to the real local music scene. No Kidz Bop shit here. Best at-long-last debut: Chris LeBrane’s Campaign Inauguration, the debut album by scene veteran Chris LeBrane, is remarkable both for its nearly decade-long gestation and its nostalgic perfection. Of all the throwbacks happening right now, nobody here is working the 1980s niche where R&B and new wave converge like

LeBrane. Inauguration is a luscious synth-funk clinic that’s pure neon fantasy. Forget vaporwave, this is 1980s redux done in living, vivid color. I shook more ass to this than any other local release this year. Best cover: The Ludes & Skinny McGee There are cover versions and then there are reinventions. When The Ludes and Skinny McGee released their spaghetti Western take on Kraftwerk’s “The Model” this year, it was a revelation. Their reimagining of the song is so inspired that they’re owed some authorship daps just for the idea and execution alone. Best cover act: New Eagles Man, fuck “Free Bird.” Comprised of decorated veterans in the city’s indie-rock scene, this all-star group kicks out jams by bands like Guided by Voices, The Thermals, Archers of Loaf, Jawbreaker and The Replacements. It’s guilty pleasure done with connoisseur taste. Best creative blitz: Cloud Crew’s WAM series Since its spring launch, this international music charrette spearheaded by Orlando’s Paper Aviator has yielded four remarkable albums, each created in the breathless span of a weekend by a global rainbow collective of digital fusion artists. The whirlwind collaboration exercise is a wonder of hive creativity. What’s more, all proceeds come home to benefit crucial LGBTQ+ service organization Zebra Youth. Best confluence: The San Francisco Renaissance & Alien Witch These two notable young bands got so in sync during the making of their self-titled split album that they sound like a single psych-rock powerhouse delivering a magnum opus. The album isn’t just a high-water mark for both bands, it’s a new Orlando touchstone of psychedelia. baolehuu@orlandoweekly.com orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

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NEW YEAR’S EVE

Arcade Time New Year’s Eve Ring in 2026 with all-night arcade access, a DJ, open bar, free valet and hors d’oeuvres till midnight. Wednesday 9 pm; Arcade Time Entertainment, 6464 International Drive; $50; 321-400-8500. Aventura’s Rooftop New Year’s Eve Celebration Ring in the new year with the best views in Orlando. 8 pm; Universal’s Aventura Hotel, 6725 Adventure Way; $286; 407-503-6000. Black and Gold New Year’s Eve Party An intimate, all-inclusive celebration. Every attendee is guaranteed a seat and a choice of two ticket options: one to enjoy an open bar, and one for those who just want to enjoy the good vibes. 5 pm; Zymarium Meadery, 1121 N. Mills Ave.; $45-$190; 407-801-9087. Casino Royale: New Year’s Eve Party Ring in 2026 with casino-style gaming and prizes, dancing, a champagne toast, and ball drop at midnight. The rooftop party of the year. 9 pm; AC Sky Bar, 323 S. Garland Ave.; $103.22. Countdown 2026: A Black Tie Affair 9 pm; Fixtion, 15 N. Orange Ave.; free$343; 407-269-5833; fixtionorlando. com. Eternal NYE Zed’s Dead, Liquid Stranger, Inzo, Eazybaked and more. 2 pm; Orlando Amphitheater, Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 W. Colonial Drive; $279-$1,500; 407-295-3247. Go VIP for NYE Seven rooms, six dance floors, two levels, 30-plus VIP sections and more than 28 bartenders. 10 pm; The Social, 54 N. Orange Ave.; $220; 407-246-1419. Kings New Year’s Eve Party This premium destination known for combining dining, gaming and nightlife is offering a fun-filled late-night end of year bash for grown-ups. 8 pm; Kings Dining and Entertainment, 8255 S. International Drive; $75; 407-363-0200. Limewired NYE: The Ultimate Dance Party 8 pm; House of Blues, Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista; $21$63; 407-934-2583.

Mix Into ’26 DJ Icey, Kimball Collins, Atnarko, Lola B and braindusted. 8 pm; Iron Cow, 2438 E. Robinson St.; $36.70-$617. New Year’s Eve Our musicians will perform today’s top hits, party classics and song requests from the audience nonstop. Meet us under the disco ball as the music vibes you into 2026. 7 pm; Howl at the Moon Orlando, 8815 International Drive; $75-$150; 407-354-5999. New Year’s Eve 2025: Neon Nights Enzian is heading down to South Beach to ring in the new year! Join us as we throw it all the way back to the neon-lined streets of 1985, Miami Vice style. Pass the Aqua Net and stun the crowds with big hair and even bigger shoulder pads for a chance at winning our audience favorite costume contest. Sip on champagne or a one-of-a-kind cocktail at the open bar, enjoy delectable passed hors d’oeuvres, and dance your way into the new year under lights so bright, you’ll need to wear your sunglasses at night. 8 pm; Enzian Theater, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland; $99$695; 407-629-0054. New Year’s Eve 2025 with Headliner Jesus Montanez Ring in 2026 with Japanese Midnight, a neon-filled New Year’s Eve celebration featuring global powerhouse DJ Jesús Montañez. Expect red lanterns, Tokyo-inspired energy, champagne, and a massive countdown moment. Orlando’s LGBTQ community finally gets the NYE event it deserves. Do not miss it. 8 pm; Anthem Orlando, 100 N. Orange Ave.; free-$40; 407-279-0609. New Year’s Eve Block Party Hosted by your favorite local bars, the Thornton Park NYE Street Party features DJs spinning all night long, cocktails, food vendors, dancing and Orlando’s Orange Ball Drop at midnight. 7:30 pm; Thornton Park District, 10 N. Summerlin Ave.; $41.74. New Year’s Eve: An Intimate VIP Experience Strict dress code: cocktail attire/creative black tie. 9:30 pm; The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive; $25; 407-704-6261. New Year’s Eve at Tori Tori Ring in 2026 with an open bar featuring select

cocktails, draft beers, house wines and champagne. Featuring DJ Ricky Rico, elevated hors d’oeuvres, live stream of Times Square countdown, toast at midnight, 360-degree photobooth and more. 8:30 pm; Tori Tori, 720 N. Mills Ave.; $130-$210. New Year’s Eve Ball Celebrate the New Year in true German-American style. Enjoy your favorite tunes performed live by the popular dance band Europa. 7 pm; German American Society of Central Florida, 381 Orange Lane, Casselberry; $53.60-$90.35; 407-834-0574. New Year’s Eve Bash with Tim Cappello, Super Passive, and DJ Smilin’ Dan Lost Boys-themed New Year’s Eve bash with Tim Cappello, Super Passive and DJ Smilin’ Dan at Will’s Pub. Come dressed like the movie, ring in the new year and enjoy a free champagne toast at midnight. 8 pm; Will’s Pub, 1042 N. Mills Ave.; $20. New Year’s Eve Bōnenkai Party Celebrate Bōnenkai, meaning “Forget the Previous Year” in Japanese, and welcome 2026 in style! Enjoy breathtaking rooftop views of the Orlando skyline and a dazzling 180-degree fireworks display. Dance the night away into the new year. This event is for guests ages 21 and older. 8 pm; JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa, 14900 Chelonia Parkway; $285; 407-919-6300. New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Fizz Ring in the New Year in elegant style by joining an exclusive VIP party in The Lobby Lounge at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando. Dance the night away to the rock band from Brocato Entertainment and enjoy exclusive seating in the sundeck. Includes a Belvedere 10 martini upon arrival, a bottle of Dom Perignon Luminous and seafood tower. 7 pm; Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes Resort, 4012 Central Florida Parkway; $1,000; 407-206-2400. NYE Live Live! at Pointe Orlando will welcome 2026 with a multi-venue bash complete with party favors, high-energy DJs, a champagne toast and a ball drop at midnight. Explore Palm Tree Club, Shark Bar, PBR Cowboy Bar and Still Lounge by Dre & Snoop, or upgrade your ticket to add all-inclusive drinks, gourmet food stations and

more at Sports & Social. 8 pm; Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive; $40.65; 610-215-7939. New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball Ring in the New Year with an air of mystery and luxury at the exclusive Masquerade Ball in the Bösendorfer Lounge at the Grand Bohemian. 9 pm; Bösendorfer Lounge, Grand Bohemian Hotel, 325 S. Orange Ave.; $150-$450; 407-313-9000. New Year’s Eve Party at the Palace Our adults-only New Year’s Eve celebration will be an unforgettable experience filled with elegance, entertainment and indulgence. Enjoy panoramic views of Universal Epic Universe from Bar Helios, the stylish rooftop lounge on the 10th floor of Universal Helios Grand Hotel. 7 pm; Universal Helios Grand Hotel, 8505 S. Kirkman Road; $303; 689-218-1000. New Year’s Eve With Nat Zegree Rock & roll into New Year’s Eve with showman extraordinaire Nat Zegree. With his signature charm and one-ofa-kind talent, Nat takes audiences on a musical journey through rock history with the songs you love from legends like Jerry Lee Lewis, Buddy Holly, Elton John, Billy Joel, Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars. 7 & 9:30 pm; Judson’s Live, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $104.60-$148.60; 407-358-6603. New Year’s Eve Bash 2026 With the Silver Lining. 9 pm; Tuffy’s Music Box, 200 Myrtle Ave., Sanford; $25. NYE Glow Night A full-venue glow party: DJ, pickleball, food and immersive experiences all night long. 8 pm; Crush Yard, 7840 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee; $85; 321-888-2913. NYE Party with Madam Drink and dance local with open bar from 8 pm to midnight. 7 pm; Cafe DaVinci, 112 W. Georgia Ave., DeLand; $40-$50; 386-873-2943. Pink Pony Club: New Year’s Eve Saddle up for the wildest New Year’s Eve in town as Tin Roof transforms into the Pink Pony Club — a glitter-soaked celebration where country meets club and midnight magic reigns supreme.

Kick off 2026 with live performances by SideQuest and Actual Bank Robbers, or dance into the new year with a high-energy set from DJ El Cumacho in the Green Room. 5 pm; Tin Roof, 8371 International Drive; $29.50; 407-270-7926. Ring in the Flavor: NYE Dinner Indulge in a festive prix fixe menu curated by award-winning Chef Eddie Nickell, paired with our elegant ambience and exceptional service. 5 pm; Bites and Bubbles, 1618 N. Mills Ave.; $68; 407-270-5085. Ring in the New Year at Asian Lantern Festival Ring in 2026 during family-friendly countdowns at 7 and 8 p.m., enjoy a live DJ and enjoy dozens of larger-than-life, handcrafted lanterns. 5:30 pm; Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford; $27; 407-323-4450. Rocking New Year 2026 As the clock ticks closer to 12 am, partygoers gear up for a spectacular midnight fireworks display at this nonstop street party with live entertainment. Admission and parking are free. 8 pm; The Promenade at Sunset Walk, 3251 Margaritaville Blvd., Kissimmee; free; 407-338-4811. SoulArtefacts NYE 2026 A night of sultry house vibes, disco, freestyle and beats. 8 pm; Grape and the Grain, 1110 Virginia Drive; free. Tomorrowland New Year’s Eve Party Celebrate in pure sophistication. Step into an evening of luxury and excitement within our elegant lobby — an immersive destination filled with music, artistry and exceptional cuisine. Savor a lavish dinner buffet of chef-driven creations, enjoy captivating live entertainment, and toast to 2026 with Taittinger Champagne as the clock strikes midnight in a grand balloon-drop spectacle. 7 pm; JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa, 14900 Chelonia Parkway; $165-$275; 407-919-6300. Wall Street Plaza NYE 2026 Block Party Orlando’s biggest New Year’s Eve party: seven DJs, seven different venues, party favors, noisemakers, plus watch the Ball Drop on the JumboTron. 9:30 pm; Wall Street Plaza, Wall and Court streets; $20-$60; 407-917-1999.

orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

of the WEDNESDAY, DEC. 24

Christmas Eve Celebration at the Morse

If this doesn’t get you in the spirit, nothing will. Every Christmas Eve, the Morse Museum in Winter Park throws a quaint and low-key daytime celebration. From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the afternoon, admission to the museum is free and you are welcome to amble around the space and check out all of the ornate Tiffany glass in the collection and listen to some festive live music to boot. And that’s it. No capital is exchanged, no dinner-and-ashow deal, just Tiffany lamps, art glass, stained glass windows and pottery to help you take a breather before shit goes down the next day. 1 p.m., Charles Hosmer Morse Museum, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, morsemuseum.org, free. — Matthew Moyer

FRIDAY, DEC. 26

Ironing

Here’s a Boxing Day miracle for you. After you’re done either opening all the presents, arguing with your family or spending the day in peaceful solitude — venture out Friday to a house that will treat you like (cherished) family: The Dining Room. There you will see a real holy trinity of Central Florida experimental greats: Ironing, No Face and Unfade. Gainesville’s Ironing is a both whimsical and intense force in the noise world collaging old records, tapes and lost radio signals into a careening, joyful whole. No Face is a performance art genius, thankfully back in Florida for a minute, and Unfade, the duo of Dining Room curators Jonas and Rachel, haven’t played together in years. Enjoy this last gift of the season. 6:30 p.m., The Dining Room, 2902 Ambergate Road, Winter Park, instagram.com/atthediningroom, donations (mandatory). — MM

FRIDAY, DEC. 26

Central Florida Kwanzaa Celebration

On Friday, celebrate Kwanzaa with a day full of community connections and enrichment in Winter Park. The late-afternoon event at the Winter Park Community Center happens for the 26th year with entertainment and fellowship to spare. Guests can look forward to the Candle Lighting Ceremony to celebrate Umoja (unity), a marketplace, Tam Tam Alifa African Drummers and the Kwanzaa Community Dancers. And step aside, carols — there’s a vibrant musical lineup promised including Empress Nyce, Dean Kulcha and Miss.illaneous. 5 p.m., Winter Park Community Center, 721 New England Ave., Winter Park, equitycouncilcorp.org, $5. — MM Saturday: OGRC Fest 3 at Will’s Pub S.M.O.P. PHOTO BY JIM LEATHERMAN

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

SATURDAY, DEC. 27

Orlando Girls Rock Camp Fest 3

The third annual Orlando Girls Rock Fest is back this week to ensure local rock thrives. The daylong music showcase spotlights the members, volunteers and community who make Orlando Girls Rock Camp what it is: a space for local artists to instruct girls, nonbinary and trans youth about all things music. It’s a can’t-miss showcase of the long hours and passion that go into uplifting our local youth, Orlando’s arts scene and the next generation of rockers. Live performances come courtesy of bands formed within the camp and other area talents, like Boston Marriage, Cat Nap, The Dropdeads, Holly Pocket, Misspel, The Mystic, M.A.C.E., Real Teen Suicide, Pinko Beats, Please Be Kind, Tiger54, Trashworld and more. 2 p.m., Will’s Pub, 1042 N. Mills Ave., willspub.org, $15-$30. — Chloe Greenberg

WEEK

WEDNESDAY–TUESDAY, DEC. 24-30, 2025 Submit your events to listings@orlandoweekly.com

SATURDAY, DEC. 27

Pop-Tarts Bowl

The Pop-Tarts Bowl is spiraling back into town this week, this time featuring a Georgia Tech versus Brigham Young University face-off just in time for the new year. The 2025 Pop-Tarts Bowl takes place Saturday at Camping World Stadium; the game sees the Georgia Tech Yellowjackets take the BYU Cougars in their fifth all-time matchup and the first since 2013. The annual post-season college game typically pits a team from the Atlantic Coast Conference against one from the Big 12 around the end of December or very beginning of January. It’s been going since its inception in 1990, and has been bolstered by a slew of sponsors (and snacks). As usual, the bragging rights of winning “The People’s National Championship” are up for grabs. 3:30 p.m., Camping World Stadium, 1 Citrus Bowl Place, poptartsbowl.com, $57$300. — CG SATURDAY-SUNDAY, DEC. 27-28

Tymisha Harris: Cabaret of Legends

Orlando actress, singer and artist Tymisha Harris brings her traveling Cabaret of Legends revue back home for a two-night run to close out the year. All by her lonesome, Harris channels the iconic likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Beyoncé, Nina Simone and Tina Turner. Between show-stopping readings of these songs, Harris weaves in personal stories and memories, laying bare how these songs and performers influenced her own vibrant work and life. And it’s in the intimate Judson’s room, to emphasize the personal nature of these performances even more. Judson’s Live, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., drphillipscenter.org, $29$52. — MM

Saturday-Sunday: Tymisha Harris a t t h e D r. P h i l l i p s C e n t e r COURTESY PHOTO

orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

[ the week ] CONCERTS WEDNESDAY, DEC. 24

The Byrne Brothers’ Celtic Christmas 6 & 8:30 pm; Judson’s Live, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $23.30-$41; 407-358-6603.

FRIDAY, DEC. 26

Deserted Will, 180xSummer 7 pm; Will’s Pub, 1042 N. Mills Ave.; $15. Holiday Friday Nights 5 pm; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311. Human Clay (Creed Tribute), Moments of Brilliance 7 pm; Conduit, 6700 Aloma Ave., Winter Park; $15; 407-673-2712.

Ironing, No Face, Unfade 7 pm; The Dining Room, 2902 Ambergate Road, Winter Park; donations mandatory. Kobalt 27 9 pm; Tuffy’s Music Box, 200 Myrtle Ave., Sanford; free. Milkmans Molotov, Crimesididntcommit, Shania Pain, Anesthesia, Chandler Altman, Rocky Black 8 pm; Iron Cow, 2438 E. Robinson St.; $15.

SATURDAY, DEC. 27

Basketball and Breaks with B8TA 10 pm; Lil Indie’s, 1036 N. Mills Ave.; free. Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons 6:30 pm; The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive; $34-$75.50; 407-704-6261. Fast Preacher 6 pm; The Social, 54 N. Orange Ave,; $15. The Long Shot Holiday Emo Night 9 pm; Tuffy’s Music Box, 200 Myrtle Ave., Sanford; free.

Tymisha Harris: Cabaret of Legends 6 & 9 pm; Judson’s Live, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $29-$53; 407-358-6603. Withering Earth, High Pressure, Nocturnal Dawn, On Soulwings, Nordic Hamster 7 pm; Conduit, 6700 Aloma Ave., Winter Park; $15; 407-6732712.

Orlando Girls Rock Camp Fest 2 pm; Will’s Pub, 1042 N. Mills Ave.; $15-$30.

Candlelight: A Tribute to Adele 6:30 pm; The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive; $34-$80; 407-704-6261.

Sean Holcomb 7 & 9 pm; Judson’s Live, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $35-$41; 407-358-6603.

Straight No Chaser: Holiday Road 8 pm; Walt Disney Theater, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $35-$100; 844-513-2014.

Life’s Cold Grasp, Jezter, Resentment, Afterthought, Barricade, Rosalind, War Threat 7 pm; Will’s Pub, 1042 N. Mills Ave.; $22.21.

Chuck Ragan, Tim Barry: Jan. 9, 2026, Will’s Pub

Jason Isbell: April 26, 2026, Walt Disney Theater, Dr. Phillips Center

Ghost: Jan. 21, 2026, Kia Center

Ashnikko: May 5, 2026, Hard Rock Live

Neko Case: Jan. 30, 2026, Plaza Live

Meghan Trainor:

June 30, 2026, Kia Center

Weird Al Yankovic: May 29, 2026, Kia Center Yungblud: June 1, 2026, Addition Financial Arena

The Wombats: Jan. 31, 2026, The Beacham

Myriam Hernandez: Feb. 26, 2026, Dr. Phillips Center

Redd Kross: April 9, 2026, Will’s Pub

Rev. Horton Heat: Feb. 7, 2026, Ace Cafe Sanford

Steve Hackett: Feb. 27, 2026, Plaza Live

Demi Lovato: April 10, 2026, Kia Center

Micky Dolenz: June 26, 2026, Hard Rock Live

Mariah the Scientist: Feb. 15, 2026, House of Blues

Dead Boys: Feb. 28, 2026, West End Trading Co.

The Growlers: April 11, 2026, Plaza Live

Meghan Trainor: June 30, 2026, Kia Center

Quiet Riot, Vixen: March 6, 2026, Hard Rock Live

Helloween: April 12, 2026, House of Blues

Megan Moroney: July 16, 2026, Kia Center

Conan Gray: March 7, 2026, Kia Center

Allie X: April 12, 2026, The Social

Louis Tomlinson: July 23, 2026, Addition Financial Arena

Gary Numan: March 9, 2026, Plaza Live

Kenny Wayne Shepherd: April 12, 2026, Hard Rock Live

Electric Daisy Carnival: Nov. 6-8, 2026, Tinker Field

Pat Metheny: March 10, 2026, Plaza Live

Calum Scott: April 16, 2026, Plaza Live

Doja Cat: Nov. 14, 2026, Kia Center

Zara Larsson: April 8, 2026, House of Blues

The Midnight: April 17, 2026, House of Blues

OAR: Nov. 16, Hard Rock Live

Peaches: Feb. 21, 2026, The Beacham Descendents: Feb. 23, 2026, House of Blues Styx: Feb. 24, 2026, Walt Disney Theater, Dr. Phillips Center 34

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

MONDAY, DEC. 29

Deer Dance, Supersonic, Drain You 7 pm; Will’s Pub, 1042 N. Mills Ave.; $21.

TUESDAY, DEC. 30

Maren Morris: April 24, 2026, House of Blues

Chris Botti: Feb. 19, 2026, Steinmetz Hall, Dr. Phillips Center

Tymisha Harris: Cabaret of Legends 5 & 7:30 pm; Judson’s Live, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $29-$53; 407-358-6603.

SUNDAY, DEC. 28

The Nightmare Before Curemas 7 pm; Clermont Performing Arts Center, 3700 S. Highway 27, Clermont; $39.50-$44.50; 352-394-4800.

Barry Manilow: Jan. 7, 2026, Kia Center

Florida Dungeon Fest: Jan. 3031, 2026, Conduit

Pulp City Sessions Noon; Will’s Pub, 1042 N. Mills Ave.; $10.

Rosalia: June 8, 2026, Kia Center

Christmas Dreaming with Stella Cole 7 & 9 pm; Alexis and Jim Pugh Theater, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $47-$71; 844-513-2014. Eternal NYE 2 pm; Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 W. Colonial Drive; $279-$1,500; 407-295-3247. Indie 900 Jam 9:30 pm; Lil Indie’s, 1036 N. Mills Ave.; free.

FILM

Enzian Holiday Series: Batman Returns Michelle Pfeiffer’s best work. Also: categorically a Christmas movie. Tuesday Dec. 30, 9:30 pm; Enzian Theater, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland; $12.50; 407-629-0054; enzian.org. Enzian Holiday Series: The Apartment Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine like it hot but also bittersweet. Saturday Dec. 27, 11 am; Enzian Theater, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland; $11.50; 407-629-0054; enzian.org. Peanut Butter Matinee: The Wizard of Oz Wicked doings, pre-Gregory Maguire. Sunday Dec. 28, noon; Enzian Theater, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland; $11.50; 407-629-0054; enzian.org.

COMEDY

40 Years of Foley Wrestling’s finest storyteller is back with his first one-man-show tour in three years. Mick has assembled a brand-new show featuring stories from throughout his legendary career — and each show concludes with a 45-minute Q&A featuring Mick’s trademark blend of warmth and wildness. Tuesday Jan. 6, 7 pm; Funny Bone Comedy Club, 9101 International Drive; $50-$160;

[ the week ] 407-480-5233; orlando.funnybone. com. George Willborn Friday Dec. 26, 7 & 9:45 pm, and Saturday Dec. 27 6:30 & 9:15 pm; Funny Bone Comedy Club, 9101 International Drive; $24; 407-480-5233; orlando.funnybone. com. NYE with Shuler King Wednesday Dec. 31, 7 & 9:45 pm; Funny Bone Comedy Club, 9101 International Drive; $32; 407-480-5233; orlando. funnybone.com.

DANCE

Orlando Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker Step into a world of holiday magic with breathtaking battles, sparkling snowfalls, and larger-than-life sets in this unforgettable celebration of the season. Follow Clara’s enchanting journey through the Land of Sweets, filled with dazzling costumes and whimsical wonder. Wednesday Dec. 24, 1 pm; Steinmetz Hall, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $44-$201; 407426-1733; drphillipscenter.org. The Sleeping Beauty Follow the journey of Princess Aurora — from her christening and the wicked curse of Carabosse to a centurylong slumber and her awakening by true love’s kiss — presented by an international cast of worldrenowned ballet artists from Italy, Spain, Georgia, Ireland, Turkey, Brazil, Great Britain, Ukraine, Japan, Tajikistan, Moldova and Kazakhstan. This family-friendly ballet is suitable for all ages. Friday Jan. 2, 7 pm; Steinmetz Hall, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $44-$201; 407-426-1733; drphillipscenter.org.

THEATER

Broadway in Orlando: & Juliet This hilarious new musical flips the script on Shakespeare’s most famous love story. Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as Juliet ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love. Tuesday Jan. 6, through Jan. 11; Walt Disney Theater, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $44-$201; 407-426-1733; drphillipscenter.org. Forgotten Broadway: An Improv Musical Experience Orlando’s

top improvisers create imaginary Broadway showtunes and storylines on the spot. No two shows are the same. Tuesday Dec. 30, 7 pm; Judson’s Live, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $44-$201; 407-426-1733; drphillipscenter.org. Pomp, Snow & CIRQUEumstance Based on the popular book and holiday TV special. Join three best friends as they spread music, magic and circus artistry for the holidays. An immersive spectacle blending world-class circus acts, mesmerizing magic, stunning costumes and captivating animation. Through Jan. 4; Gaylord Palms Resort, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee; $14$24; 407-603-5716; cirqueatgaylordpalms.com.

EVENTS

AFK: Free Indie Video Game Night Free indie game night with multiple consoles available. Sunday Dec. 28, 6 pm; Conduit, 6700 Aloma Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-673-2712. Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild See dozens of handconstructed lantern displays illuminated by thousands of LED lights on a 3/4 mile path. Celebrate the art, beauty and wonder of traditional Asian lantern festivals. Through Jan. 18, 6-10 pm; Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford; $22-$29; centralfloridazoo.org/ lanterns. Breathe With the Trees Relaxation Training Learn the practical magic of “green immersion” through simple exercises that stimulate the senses, release endorphins, enhance mental clarity, neutralize anxiety, lift the weight of fatigue and replenish the spirit. Wednesday Dec. 24 and Dec. 31, 10 am; Mead Botanical Garden, 1300 S. Denning Drive, Winter Park; free; 407-622-6323; meadgarden.org. Dazzling Nights Enjoy nightly live entertainment, indulge in sweet treats, and sip festive holiday beverages — including special drinks just for adults — at this immersive holiday light experience. Through Jan. 4, various times; Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave.; $31.50-$378; 407-246-2620; dazzlingorlando. com.

Drone Show at Fun Spot Kissimmee Fun Spot America Theme Parks are known for delivering wholesome, nostalgic fun for families and thrill-lovers alike. Wednesday Dec. 31, midnight; Fun Spot America Kissimmee, 2850 Florida Plaza Boulevard, Kissimmee; free; 407-363-3867; fun-spot.com. Fossil Fest Dig into prehistoric science at this hands-on celebration of paleontology. Little learners enjoy a puppet parade and show, storytime, and mini-maker sesions, while teens and older can meet local fossil experts and makers from across Florida, see a giant crocodile skeleton and explore a mobile fossil prep lab. Saturday-Sunday Dec. 27-28; Orlando Science Center, 777 E. Princeton St.; $22-$29; 407-5142000; osc.org. Holidays in Space The breathtaking 600-drone performance will tell the story of Starflake, a celestial character formed from a meteor shower who journeys through NASA’s greatest programs, from Apollo and Shuttle to Artemis, culminating in the creation of a glowing cosmic tree. Through Tuesday Dec. 30, 6 pm; Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island; $60; 321-452-2121; kennedyspacecenter.com. North American Children and Youth Arts Festival Presented by the Orlando Chinese Association. Saturday Dec. 27, 1 pm; Alexis and Jim Pugh Theater, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave.; $47.50-$59.30; 844513-2014; drphillipscenter.org. Pop-Tarts Bowl Georgia Tech meets BYU on the field. In addition to the footballing, this year’s PopTarts Bowl will also feature a record six mascots — Team Sprinkles and Team Swirls — who will go head-tohead in a first-of-its-kind showdown. After final whistle, an entire team of Edible Mascots will be selected to be devoured by the 2025 Pop-Tarts Bowl Champions. Saturday Dec. 27, 3 pm; Camping World Stadium, 1 Citrus Bowl Place; $62-$320; 407423-2476; campingworldstadium. com. WWE Monday Night RAW Get ready for an unforgettable night as the WWE Holiday Tour returns to

Orlando! This year’s event is packed with high-energy matchups and thrilling action you won’t want to miss. See WWE Superstars CM Punk, Gunther, Logan Paul, Jey Uso, Becky Lynch, The New Day, Stephanie Vaquer and more. Monday Dec. 29, 7:30 pm; Kia Center, 400 W. Church St; $57-$280; 800-745-3000; kiacenter.com.

HOLIDAY

Central Florida’s 26th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration Day 1, Umoja: Unity Honoring our legacy and building the next 25 years with intention, drumming, dance, music, food, performances and the SOKO Marketplace. Friday Dec. 26, 5-9 pm; Winter Park Community Center, 721 New England Ave., Winter Park; $5; 407-490-2902; equitycouncilcorp. org. Christmas Eve Celebration Enjoy free admission to the Morse Museum galleries, with live music from 1-4 pm. Wednesday Dec. 24, 1 pm; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311; morsemuseum.org. Holinights Celebration ’Tis the season at Sunset Walk. Enjoy the nightly lighting of the 40-foot Christmas tree, plus live music, Santa and his Mischievous Elves, towering toy soldiers, train rides, trampolines, craft markets, holiday performances by the Dance Station Studios and more. Through Thursday Dec. 25, 6 pm; The Promenade at Sunset Walk, 3251 Margaritaville Blvd., Kissimmee; free; 407-338-4811. Santa’s on Vacation Cocktail Class Join Santa Claus and our chief mixologist, Macarena Portales, for a post-Christmas mixology experience. Friday Dec. 26, 4 pm; Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, 1 Grand Cypress Blvd.; $40; 407-239-1234. Unity Celebration Celebrate the fourth day of Chanukah in style with snow sledding, snow cones, donuts, cotton candy, Chanukah crafts, a grand menorah lighting and a helicopter gelt drop! Food truck catering by Motti, live music by 8th Day Band. Sunday Dec. 29, 4:30 pm; Chabad of South Orlando, 7347 W. Sand Lake Road; free; 800-765-7905; jewishorlando. com.

Meet Willow! Willow (A582391) is a sweet and affectionate 2-year-old stray that was found tied to a pole, sick and starving. It took a few months and an amazing foster home, but we think Willow has made a remarkable recovery, and is ready for her second chance at life. Willow has a big resilient heart. She knows the commands sit, wait and lie down. She loves tug-ofwar and playing with other dogs. Willow is housebroken, and will bark or nudge you to go potty if you don’t see her running to the door. She thinks she is a velociraptor because she can catch treats in the air. We think Willow has had a rough life, but she is just starting to learn about being a dog, and about being loved. Let’s get her seen. Let’s get her home. Orange County Animal Services is located at 2769 Conroy Road in Orlando, near the Mall at Millenia. The shelter is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. every day except Wednesday, when it’s open 2-6 p.m. For more information, please call 407-8363111 or visit ocnetpets.com.

orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

RV Sales RV Repairs WANTED - All motorhomes, fifth wheels and travel trailers any condition. Mobile repair service. Cash paid on the spot. RV transport service available! Call 954-595-0093!

Legal, Public Notices Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Store #8558, January 13th, 2026 at the times and locations listed below. The personal goods stored therein by the following: 12:00 PM Extra Space Storage 610 Rinehart Rd. Lake Mary, FL 32746 (407) 637-1360 Hilary Erickson-furniture boxes house hold items Emma Arends-household items Tommy Leslie-Clothes, boxes Jonte Alicea-boxes, video games, christmas items Yanique Reddick -bike, toys, bed, chairs, boxes, dressers. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location and times listed below. January 13, 2026 at 12:00 PM Extra Space Storage, 1451 Rinehart Rd, Sanford, FL 32771 (407) 9154908. The personal goods stored therein by the following: Nuline Sensors/Eve Gould : Boxes,electronics. Ruben Galvan: mattress, totes, bags. Kendra McKnight: furniture, computers, clothing, Stephanie Szalapski: furniture, shelving. Cameron Alexdander: furniture, bed. Joanna Jaeger: totes, electric scotter,table. L.D. Robinson: t.v., furniture, collectables. Armando Estebn Chi: household, mattress, boxes. Deandriea Howard: totes, lamps, luggage. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location and times indicated: January 13th, 2026 at 12:00 PM Extra Space Storage, Store #6309, 292 W Central Pkwy, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 (407) 378-6671. Eugenia Fox:clothing, house itmes. Tameka Hall:bins, suitcase, clothes, Tvs. Lindsey Stockstill:household items, electronics, clothing, kitchen items. Lindsey Stockstill:household items, electronics, beds, furniture. The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to

complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: January 8th, 2026, at the times and locations listed below: The personal goods stored therein by the following: 10:00AM Extra Space Storage, 6068 Wooden Pine Drive. Orlando, Florida 32829 407.974.5165: Rob Gerace: Mattress & Bedding, Wall Art, Boxes, Totes, Holiday Decor, Speaker, Bed Frame; Sarah Rodriguez: Cabinets & Shelves, Toys, Baby & Games, Boxes Table, Patio Furniture, Chair, Stroller, Floor Jack. The personal goods stored therein by the following: 11:15AM Extra Space Storage, 1305 Crawford Ave. St. Cloud FL 34769, 407.504.0833: William Wineglass; Boxes, Furniture’sAngel Marrero; Furniture’s, totes- Armani Ruiz; mattress & bedding, table- Brian Jackson; totes, tv- Pierce Vermillion; totes and boxes The personal goods stored therein by the following: 11:30AM Extra Space Storage, 2855 E Osceola Pkwy Kissimmee FL. 34743, 689.223.6810: Alexis Flores - car motor, furniture, holiday decor, desk Kira Andre – furniture, luggage, boxes The personal goods stored therein by the following: 12:00PM Extra Space Storage, 14800 Narcoossee Rd. Orlando, FL 32832 407.987.4115: Jaime Cano-Personal effects, Gabriel Quiles-Household goods, Nastassia Folkes-Household goods, Katrina Moore-Household goods. The personal goods stored therein by the following: 12:00PM Extra Space Storage, 12915 Narcoossee Rd. Orlando, FL 32832 407.501.5799: Tereci Shanell Paris- Sports and Household items. Tatiana Sutherland-Household items Tatiana SutherlandHousehold items. The personal goods stored therein by the following: 1:15PM Extra Space Storage, 11261 Narcoossee Rd. Orlando FL 32832, 407.280.7355: Antoine Edwin Williams- boxes, furniture. Kadeeshia Aitken- household items, boxes, furniture. Yitzia Rivera- dresser, clothing bags. The personal goods stored therein by the following: 10:30 AM Extra Space Storage, 13597 S Orange Ave, Orlando, Florida 32824 407.910.2087: Carlos Alejandro Valencia Caceres – Totes, Canopies. Carlos R. Delgado Romero – Personal items, Clothes. Melanie Diaz – Household/Personal items. Edward Gutierrez – Household/Personal items. Cynthia Williams - Household/Personal items. Vimarie Cardona – Boxes, Baby/ Personal items The personal goods stored therein by the following: 01:30 PM Extra Space Storage, 13450 Landstar Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32824 407.917.8672: Jacqueline Rodriguez: Household Goods/ Furniture. Delanie Vargas: home items, bow making materials and furniture. Brandon Tention: Shoes and clothes. Frances Rodriguez: Household goods. James Hampton: Boxes, customs, shoes, clothes. Kery Rodriguez: household stuff. Erlinda Arguelles: Household Goods/Furniture. The personal goods stored therein by the following: 01:00 PM Extra Space Storage, 7627 Narcoossee Rd, Orlando, Florida 32822 689.278.1735: Hernando Velasquez – Totes, Fishing Rod, Luggage, Boxes, Air Compressor, Table. Oscar Mercado – Fridge, Washer, Dryer. Zainy Clavijo – Bed Frame, Mattress, Chairs, Furniture, TV, Luggage, Kennels. Nelson Guevara – Box-

es, TV, PS4s, Books, Wall Arts, Miniature Collectables. Michael George – Totes, Boxes, Electrician Items, Dolly, Tires, Air Compressor, Lawn Mower, Chairs, Wall Arts. The personal goods stored therein by the following: 12:30 PM Extra Space Storage, 35 Goldenrod Rd S, Orlando, Florida 32807 407.487.3270: Daviqua Riley- Totes, Clothes; Alexis Hill- Furniture, Microwave, Dolly; James Jeffcoat- Totes, Crafts, Boxes The personal goods stored therein by the following: 10:45 AM Extra Space Storage, 6174 S Goldenrod Rd, Orlando, Florida 32822 407.955.4137: Lisandra Febo - boxes and chair; James Holt - Household items The personal goods stored therein by the following: 10:15 AM Extra Space Storage, 5753 Hoffner Rd, Orlando, Florida 32822 407.212.5890: Natanael Beltran Berberena – Floor cleaner waxer machines; Curtis King – Luggage, Sewing machine, Stepstool, Dishes, Boxes, Dog cage; Calvin Auerbach – Clothing, Wall art, Luggage, Backpak; Yanira Justiniano – Clothing, Household Items, Toys, Wall art, Boxes; Gennesis Morales – Lamp, toys, couches, stuff animals, TV, Mattress, Furniture; Ronald Wagner – Shelves, Tools, Boxes, Decoration, Camping tent, Table, Totes, Stepladder; The personal goods stored therein by the following: 12:45 PM Extra Space Storage, 4650 S Semoran Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32822 407.901.3864: Derik Rivera-collection cards; John Castro-clothes, shoes, personal effects, wall art, electronics. The personal goods stored therein by the following: 02:00 PM Extra Space Storage, 2334 S Semoran Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32822 407.930.4541: Jose Rosa: Boxes; Annette Andino: Boxes, Household goods. ; Crystal Brown: Clothing, shoes, microwave, boxes, kitchen appliances, plastic bins, 40” TV. The personal goods stored therein by the following: 11:45 AM Extra Space Storage, 4020 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, Florida 32806 407.901.0194: Lashanda Roberson- Seasonal items; Dylon Smith- Household goods; Fields Perfection LLC/ Max Dixon- Spare business items; Kyle Allgood- Household items. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Site #3102, 2650 W. 25th St. Sanford, Fl 32771, 407-324-9985 on January 13th, 2026 at 12:00pm Taj Nahal:dresser,couch,endtable,microwave,lampDillon Nemig: Chair,table,dresser,mirror,lamp,tote Tioniee Kennon:art,bike,clothing,hoverboard,tote,t.v Katherine Hernandez:tote,box,surfboard,tools,tent,cooler, Elizabeth Watley:tote,art,leafblower,boogieboarddresser,Tomiya Holley:bag,box,clothes khanhti Luangla Saap LLC :industrial frezzer,industrial oven David Power:sport equipment,sign,frame,box,matters,luggage. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the

personal property. Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage, will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage, #3700, 5645 W State Road 46, Sanford, FL 32771 (321)286-7326. On January 13th, 2026 at 12:00 PM Suzann Evans-household goods. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures. com Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. FLORIDA DISCOUNT SELF STORAGE Personal property of the following tenants will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder for cash to satisfy a rental lien in accordance with Florida Statutes, Sections 83.801 - 83.809. Auctions will be held on the premises at locations and times indicated below. Wednesday January 14, 2026, Thursday January 15, 2026. Contents: Misc. & household goods and vehicles. The viewing is at time of sale only. The owners or their agents reserve the right to bid on any unit, and to refuse any bid. 2580 Michigan Ave Kissimmee,FL 34744 (Wed, January 14 @ 11:30am) 0119-Jerry Hines, 0528-Tony L Cox, 1254-Israel Maldonado, 1835-Ricardo Santini, 2016, Durz Travel Trailer, VIN#4YDT28529GH980059, Owner:Ricardo Santini, Co-Owner:Darlene Enid Ortiz Soto, Lien Holder:Merrick Bank 5622 Old Winter Garden Rd Orlando,FL 32811 (Wed, January 14 @ 1:00pm) 0243-Pedro Perez, 0337- Sonya Fields, 0526-Marie Mitchell, 0534-Derryl Fields, 0631-Nicholas Isernia, 0741-Charlie Fredrick, 1536-Dean Watson; Enclosed White Trailer, VIN#:7TKBE2022RN008601, Owner: Dean Watson, Selling for parts only 6401 Pinecastle Blvd Orlando,FL 32809 (Wed, January 14 @ 2:30pm) 18-Kailuh Statum Washington, 540- Mercato Retail Group LLC; c/o:Efraim Ellman, 548-Mercato Retail Group LLC; c/o:Efraim Ellman, 626-Mercato Retail Group LLC; c/o:Efraim Ellman 3625 Aloma Ave Oviedo,FL 32765 (Thurs, January 15 @ 11:00am) 1802-Jeffrey Phillip Reese, 2002 HAUM Trailer, Vin#4XSPB12202G038676, Owner:Jeffrey Phillip Reese 17420 SR 50 Clermont,FL 34711 (Thurs, January 15 @ 1:00pm) 0234-Leopoldo Hernandez 2300 Hartwood Marsh Clermont,FL 34711 (Thurs, January 15 @ 2:00pm) 0152-Ada Tirado, 0427-Reggy Senora, 0641-Jarik Kapyo Johnson, 1062-Marcia Facusse, 2143-Migdalia Khoury. Run dates 12/24/25 and 12/31/25. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR ORANGE COUNTY STATE OF FLORIDA. CASE NO: DP22-441, IN THE INTEREST OF M.D. DOB: 12/28/2015, minor child. NOTICE OF ACTION, TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO: Anthony Downs, father, address unknown. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the State of Florida, Department of Children and Families, has filed a Petition to terminate your parental rights and permanently commit the above referenced child(ren) for adoption. You are hereby commanded to appear on January 5th, 2026, at 09:30 AM before the Honorable Heather Pinder-Rodriguez,

Judge of the Circuit Court, in Court Room 6 at the Thomas S. Kirk Justice Center located at 2000 East Michigan Street Orlando, Fl 32806, for an ADVISORY HEARING. FAILURE TO PERSONALLY APPEAR AT THIS ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS OF THIS CHILD (OR CHILDREN). IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED, YOU MAY LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS AS A PARENT TO THE CHILD OR CHILDREN NAMED IN THIS NOTICE. WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court at Orlando, Orange County, Florida this 22st day of November, 2025. CLERK OF COURT By: /s/ Deputy Clerk. (Court Seal) This summons has been issued at the request of: George Lytle, Esquire, Florida Bar No: 985465 Children’s Legal Services, Department of Children and Families, 400 W. Robinson Street, S912, Orlando, FL 32801, George.Lytle@myflfamilies.com. Clerk of the Circuit Court, by: /s/ Deputy Clerk (Court Seal). IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR ORANGE COUNTY STATE OF FLORIDA. CASE NO: DP22-441, IN THE INTEREST OF M.D. DOB: 12/28/2015, minor child. NOTICE OF ACTION, TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO: Loretta Wortman, mother, address unknown. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the State of Florida, Department of Children and Families, has filed a Petition to terminate your parental rights and permanently commit the above referenced child(ren) for adoption. You are hereby commanded to appear on January 5th, 2026, at 09:30 AM before the Honorable Heather Pinder-Rodriguez, Judge of the Circuit Court, in Court Room 6 at the Thomas S. Kirk Justice Center located at 2000 East Michigan Street Orlando, Fl 32806, for an ADVISORY HEARING. FAILURE TO PERSONALLY APPEAR AT THIS ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS OF THIS CHILD (OR CHILDREN). IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED, YOU MAY LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS AS A PARENT TO THE CHILD OR CHILDREN NAMED IN THIS NOTICE. WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court at Orlando, Orange County, Florida this 22st day of November, 2025. CLERK OF COURT By: /s/ Deputy Clerk. (Court Seal) This summons has been issued at the request of: George Lytle, Esquire, Florida Bar No: 985465 Children’s Legal Services, Department of Children and Families, 400 W. Robinson Street, S912, Orlando, FL 32801, George.Lytle@myflfamilies.com. Clerk of the Circuit Court, by: /s/ Deputy Clerk (Court Seal). IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR OSCEOLA COUNTY, FLORIDA. CASE: 2023-DP-045 IN THE INTEREST OF MINOR CHILD:I.J.S. DOB: 8/6/2014, NOTICE OF ACTION, TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS. TO: INOCENCIO SAEZ-RIVERA, Address Unknown. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the State of Florida, Department of Children and Families, has filed a Petition to terminate your parental rights and permanently commit the above referenced child. You are hereby commanded to appear January 29, 2026, at 2:30 PM, before the Honorable Judge Tom Young at the Osceola Courthouse, 2 Courthouse Square Kissimmee, FL 34741, Courtroom 4-C for an ADVISORY HEARING. FAILURE

TO PERSONALLY APPEAR AT THIS ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO THIS CHILD. IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED, YOU MIGHT LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS AS A PARENT TO THE CHILD NAMED IN THE PETITION. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, Osceola County Courthouse, 2 Courthouse Square, Suite 6300, Kissimmee, Florida, (407) 742-2417, at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court at Kissimmee, Osceola County, Florida this 18th day of December, 2025. Kelvin Soto, as Clerk of Court. By: /s/ as Deputy Clerk (Court Seal). IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR OSCEOLA COUNTY, FLORIDA. CASE: 2023-DP-045 IN THE INTEREST OF MINOR CHILD:I.J.S. DOB: 8/6/2014, NOTICE OF ACTION, TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS. TO: VERONICA BAEZ, Address Unknown. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the State of Florida, Department of Children and Families, has filed a Petition to terminate your parental rights and permanently commit the above referenced child. You are hereby commanded to appear January 29, 2026, at 2:30 PM, before the Honorable Judge Tom Young at the Osceola Courthouse, 2 Courthouse Square Kissimmee, FL 34741, Courtroom 4-C for an ADVISORY HEARING. FAILURE TO PERSONALLY APPEAR AT THIS ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO THIS CHILD. IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED, YOU MIGHT LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS AS A PARENT TO THE CHILD NAMED IN THE PETITION. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Court Administration, Osceola County Courthouse, 2 Courthouse Square, Suite 6300, Kissimmee, Florida, (407) 742-2417, at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court at Kissimmee, Osceola County, Florida this 18th day of December, 2025. Kelvin Soto, as Clerk of Court. By: /s/ as Deputy Clerk (Court Seal).

orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY

Legal, Public Notices IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR ORANGE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO: DP24-313 IN THE INTEREST OF MINOR CHILD C.B. DOB: 6/11/2021. NOTICE OF ACTION TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS. TO: ELIMA BELONY Address unknown. A Petition for Termination of Parental Rights under oath has been filed in this court regarding the above-referenced child(ren). You are hereby commanded to appear before the Honorable Robert J. Egan, Circuit Court Judge, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 9:00 AM at the Thomas S. Kirk Justice Center, 2000 East Michigan Street, Courtroom 5 Orlando, Florida 32806, for a TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS ADVISORY HEARING. FAILURE TO PERSONALLY APPEAR AT THIS ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO THE CHILD(REN). IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED, YOU MIGHT LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS AS A PARENT TO THE CHILD(REN) NAMED IN THE PETITION. WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court at Orlando, Orange County, Florida this 17th day of December, 2025. This summons has been issued at the request of: Marissa Morales, Esquire Florida Bar Number: 1064978 marissa.morales@ myflfamilies.com. CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT By: /s/ Deputy Clerk (Court Seal) JUSTICE COURT, LAS VEGAS TOWNSHIP Clark County Nevada The Siegel Group Nevada, Inc., Plaintiff(s) vs. Jorge Guillen, Defendant(s) CASE NO.: 25C034676 Department No.: 01. SUMMONS: NOTICE: YOU HAVE BEEN SUED. THE COURT MAY DECIDE AGAINST YOU WITHOUT YOUR BEING HEARD UNLESS YOU RESPOND WITHIN 21 DAYS. READ THE INFORMATION BELOW. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANT: You are hereby summoned and required to serve upon Plaintiffs attorney, whose address is set forth below, an Answer to the Complaint which is herewith served upon you, within 21 days after service of this Summons upon you, exclusive of the day of service. If you fail to do so, judgment by default will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. * If you intend to defend this lawsuit, within 21 days after this Summons is served on you, exclusive of the day of service, you must do the following: a. File with the Clerk of the Court, whose address is shown below, a formal written response (Answer) to the Complaint in accordance with the rules of the Court. A $71.00 filing fee is required, or you must file an Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis and request a waiver of the fee. (You may obtain forms and information at the Civil Law Self-Help Center located in the Regional Justice Center or at its website at http://www.civillawselfhelpcenter. org/.) b. Serve a copy of your response upon the attorney whose name and address is shown below. * Unless you respond, your default will be entered upon application of the Plaintiff, and this Court may enter a judgment against you for the relief demanded, which could result in the taking of money or property or other relief. * If you intend to seek the advice of an attorney, you should do so promptly so that your response will be timely. /s/ Muldowney, Melanie J., ESQ 9087 3790 Paradise Road, Suite 110 Las Vegas, NV

89169 702-947-8330. By /s/ DEPUTY CLERK, Date: 10/27/2025. Justice Court, Las Vegas Township Regional Justice Center 200 Lewis Avenue PO Box 552511 Las Vegas, NV 89155-2511 LOST OR ABANDONED PROPERTY FOUND OR RECOVERED WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF ORLANDO, FLORIDA. PROPERTY NOT CLAIMED WILL EITHER BE SURRENDERED TO THE FINDERS OR RETAINED FOR USE BY THE DEPARTMENT. PICTURE IDENTIFICATION IS REQUIRED. December 2025 DESCRIPTION - FOUND PROPERTY: 1. Bike 4700 Blk of S Goldenrod Rd 2. Bike 5400 Blk of International Dr 3. Bike S Semoran Blvd/Turnbull Dr 4. Currency 20 Blk of S Orange Ave 5. Currency 2800 Blk of S Orange Ave 6. Currency 4800 blk of Silver Star Rd 7. Curence 5870 blk of American Way 8. Sport Equipment W Jackson St/ S Lee Ave 9. Keys S Tampa Ave/ Orange Center Blvd 10. Keys S Orange Ave/ E Pine St 11. Backpack with clothing 1200 Blk of W South St 12. Cellphone and keys 20 Blk of E Harding St 13. Cellphone S Tampa Ave/ E Pine St 14. Wallet 4800 Blk of Silver Star Rd 15. Cellphone 1600 Blk of W Chuch St 16. Key Conroy Rd/ I-4 W 17. tools N Texas Ave/ W Central Blvd 18. Cellphone S Tampa Ave/ Long St 19. Backpack with clothing 6200 Blk of Pershing Ave 20. Cellphone N Ornage Blossom Trl/ W Concord St 21. Tag 4600 Blk of Silver Star Rd 22. Backpack with clothing N Ornage Blossom Trl/Hames Ave 23. Laptop 6200 Blk of Pershing Ave 24. Cellphone 5400 Blk of International Dr 25. Keys S Orange Blossom Trl/ Carter St 26. Keys N Bumby Ave/ E Marks St 27. Backpack with clothing S Sermorna Blvd/ Turnbull Dr 28. Cellphone 5200 Blk of International Dr 29. cellphone N Court Ave/ E Washington St FOR INFO CALL (407) 246-2445, MONDAY – THRU THURSDAY, 9:00 AM TILL 4:00PM MY NEIGHBORHOOD STORAGE CENTERS Personal property of the following tenants will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder for cash to satisfy a rental lien in accordance with Florida Statutes, Sections 83.801 - 83.809. The public sale will take place online at www. storagetreasures.com on the dates indicated for each property, respectively. Contents: Misc. & household goods and vehicles. Viewing can begin approximately 2 weeks before the time of sale only. The owners or their agents reserve the right to bid on any unit and also to refuse any bid. 108 E. Colonial Dr Orlando, FL 32801 (January 14, 2026 9:30am) 2038-James Drosier, 2112-Cyntenah Harris, 2127-Nelson Succes, 2127-Pharaohs Cuts LLC, 2176-Jerry White, 2243- Jay Hughes, 2278-Jeffrey Turner Jr, 2313-Marquis Mckenzie, 2313-The Dirt Master LLC, 2335- Tammy Anderson, 2357-Roland Simmons,3040-Kara Sanford, 3092-Jordia’n Johnson, 3157- Sarah Attzs, 3180-Dylan Reed, 3199-Breyan McQueen, 3205-Jordan Nevilus, 3286-Hector Perez, 3331-Thaddeaus Campbell, 3342-Hector Perez, 3353-Cadejah Jennings 300 W Oak Ridge Rd Orlando, FL 32809 (Wednesday January 14, 2026 11:30am)

1020-Eric Encarnacion, 1054-Willie Harris, 2004 Maikel Ramos, 2041-Luis Caban, 2065-Stephanie Capers, 3046-Adan Perez Costa 15610 Sweet Grove Lane, Winter Garden, FL 34787 (Wednesday January 14, 2026 2:30pm) 1071-David Schemel, 2049-Michael Gann, 2057-Keri Cohen, 2090-Brittany Karlson, 2208-Scott Frankel Notice Is Hereby Given that Synapse Health, Inc., 3755 Chase Ave, Skokie, IL 60076, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Synapse Health, with its principal place of business in the State of Florida in the County of Seminole, intends to file an Application for Registration of Fictitious Name with the Florida Department of State. NOTICE OF DIVORCE Notice is hereby given that Nathalie Santana has filed a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage against Kevin Gonzalez in the Wake County Clerk of Superior Court 316 Fayetteville Street Raleigh, NC 27601. Case No. 25CV015427910 Any person claiming an interest in this matter must respond within the time allowed by law or a default judgment may be entered. Dated: 12/18/2025 Nathalie Santana Petitioner Raleigh, NC Notice of Public Sale is hereby given that the undersigned will sell, to satisfy lien of the owner, at public sale by competitive bidding on www.storagetreasures.com ending on January 9th, 2026 at 10:00 am for units located at: Compass Self Storage 800 Greenway Professional Ct. Orlando, FL 32824 Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the time of sale. All goods are sold as is and must be removed at the time of purchase. Compass Self Storage reserves the right to refuse any bid. Sale is subject to adjournment. The personal goods stored therein by the following may include, but are not limited to general household, furniture, boxes, clothes and appliances. Unit # 1113 Felix Escamilla Unit # 1212 Floirany G. Otero Perez Unit # 1312 Dashiell Hernandez Unit # 1730 Jean M. Rohena Rivera. Run dates 12/24/25 and 12/31/25. Notice of Public Sale Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell, to satisfy lien of the owner, at public sale by competitive bidding on www.storagetreasures.com ending on January 9th, 2026 at 10:00 am for units located at: Compass Self Storage 14120 East Colonial Drive Orlando, Fl 32826 Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the time of sale. All goods are sold as is and must be removed at the time of purchase. Compass Self Storage reserves the right to refuse any bid. Sale is subject to adjournment. The personal goods stored therein by the following may include, but are not limited to general household, furniture, boxes, clothes and appliances. #2413 Dawn Fitch #2422 Muriel Beaudoin. Run dates 12/24/25 and 12/31/25. Notice of Public Sale Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell, to satisfy lien of the owner, at public sale by competitive bidding on www.storagetreasures.com ending on January 9th, 2026 at 10:00 am for units located at: Compass Self Storage 203 Neighborhood Market Rd. Orlando, FL 32825 Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the time of sale. All goods are sold as is and

ORLANDO WEEKLY ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● orlandoweekly.com

must be removed at the time of purchase. Compass Self Storage reserves the right to refuse any bid. Sale is subject to adjournment. The personal goods stored therein by the following may include, but are not limited to general household, furniture, boxes, clothes and appliances. Unless Otherwise noted. Johnny Cisneros – Unit 103 Anas Khlaaf – Unit 300 Alanis Burgos – Unit 2069 Xavier Pedraza – Unit 2159 Gertha Allen – Unit 3084 Tru Wells – Unit 3118 Genese Santaliz Rivera – Unit 3132 Laura Vick – Unit 3147 David Brandon Hudyma – Unit 3151. Run dates 12/24/25 and 12/31/25. NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY Notice is hereby given that Mindful Storage will sell at public auction, to satisfy the lien of the owner, personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the following times and locations: January 14th, 2025, 9:30am Mindful Storage facility: 900 Cypress Pkwy. Kissimmee, FL 34759 (321) 732-6032 The personal goods stored therein by the following:#1180-Households, #1120- Households, #1064-Furniture, #1063-Furniture, #1039-Households, #10365-Furniture,#1013-Boxes, #D201Bins, #2151-Boxes, #2003-Households, #2022-Furniture, #2043- Bins, #2044-Furniture, #M304-Boxes, K226-Boxes, #K204-Furniture, #J217-Furniture, #2130-Clothes, #G224-Boxes, #G218-Bins. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Mindful Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage store #3503 1170 W State Rd 434 Longwood, FL, 32750 - (407) 602-3999 January 16, 2026 @ 12:00pm. Claudia Rivera- King size bedroom furnitjre Computer system Large table Couches Entertainment center. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage, will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Site #3086, 130 Concord Drive, Casselberry, FL 32707, 1/13/2026, @ 12:00 pm: Loren Pardo- furniture Tailia Hicks- couch, fireplace, dining room table, household goods Michael Rooks-desk chair, bags, tools, refrigerator, household goods Shehla Raza-household goods, cat tree, cage Melissa BorjaFurniture, bags, totes, cat tree, cage, household goods Saniecia Davis- Furniture, electronics, household goods, bags, boxes Reginald Wright- household goods,

toys, bikes, tools Tyesha Battle- boxes, household items, clothing, shoes, toys, bags. The auction will be listed an advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Notice of Public Sale: Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell, to satisfy lien of the owner, at public sale by competitive bidding on www.storagetreasures.com ending on January 9th, 2026 at 10:00 am for units located at: Compass Self Storage 2435 W SR 426, Oviedo, FL 32765. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the time of sale. All goods are sold as is and must be removed at the time of purchase. Compass Self Storage reserves the right to refuse any bid. Sale is subject to adjournment. The personal goods stored therein by the following may include, but are not limited to general household, furniture, boxes, clothes and appliances. 0166 – Kelly Debias. Run dates 12/24/25 and 12/31/25. Notice of Trade Name - LIV Lending Location: Orange County Trade Name: LIV Lending Name of Applicant: MPIRE FINANCIAL GROUP LLC Address:189 S Orange Ave Suite 2030,2050,2070 Orlando, FL 32801 Applicant is: Limited Liability Company Laws Entity was Formed: FL Date of first use of name in FL: 12/17/2025 General nature of business: Mortgage Brokering Owner Of Business: John Motowidlak - Member

Employment

Kingdom Food Solution LLC, located at 5632 International Drive, Orlando FL 32819, is seeking a Kitchen Supervisor with 24 months of experience in Kitchen supervisor or related areas. Duties include: supervise kitchen staff to ensure efficient operations and high-quality food preparation. manage inventory levels, ensure all ingredients are fresh and available, maintain cleanliness and ensure all equipment is in order coordinate training on food handling and safety procedures assist in managing kitchen schedules and shift assignments address customer concerns ensuring that each guest leaves satisfied. Please send your resume to Cleston Santino Pereira by email at clestonsp@gmail.com or by mail to: 5632 International Drive Orlando FL 32819. Larson Accounting and Consulting Services LLC in Orlando, FL seeks full-time Search Marketing Strategist for online marketing for social media. Req Bachelor’s degree in any major. $45,906/ year. Mail resume to C. Larson, 7901 Kingspointe Pkwy, Ste 17, Orlando, FL 32819. Project Architect - Works from & refines designs of others, compiles data, & assists in the draft’g coord of schematic dsgn, dsgn dvlpmnt & construt docmnts. Produces & coords dsgn dvlpmnt &

construct draw’gs to firm draw’g & Revit stndrds. Reqs: Bach’s deg + 24 mos of exp. Inter applicants contact: Ms. Terri Merrill, Hunton Brady Architects P.A., 333 S. Garland Ave, Ste 1100, Orlando, FL 32801 WestRock Services LLC (d/b/a Smurfit Westrock) has multiple openings for an Electrical Engineer in Orlando, FL: Job duties include: Develop efficient flow charts for the theory of machine operation to serve as a basis for efficient controls design and programming. Develop root level Allen-Bradley PLC and HMI control programs to interface with FANUC and/or KUKA robot control programs. Domestic travel required up to 40% of the time. Contact: Email resume to: greg.keller@westrock.com (ATR56742) must be included in resume, cover letter, and subject line

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orlandoweekly.com ● DEC. 24-30, 2025 ● ORLANDO WEEKLY