🌱 Orlando Zine Fest Happens This Saturday + The Villages Voter Fraud Arrests

Happy Thursday, Orlando! Here's everything you need to know going on locally today.

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First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny. High: 83 Low: 68.

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Here are the top stories today in Orlando:

1. Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed a bill to ban critical race theory in classrooms and workplaces. Parents would have the ability to sue if they believe their child is learning about the theory. (WTSP)

2. A man has been charged in the death of an Orlando cancer survivor, 27-year-old Sophie Elizabeth Allen, who was killed while on vacation in Chicago, reports say. 30-year-old Brett Dimick of Chicago is charged with reckless homicide, failure to report a death and failure to report an injury. (WESH)

3. Three elderly residents of The Villages were arrested for casting multiple votes in 2020 election, police say. Two of the residents charged are registered Republicans, while one has no known affiliation. (Fox 13 Tampa)

4. Orlando Zine Fest is Saturday, December 18th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Nook on Robinson. It will feature over 40 zinesters and artists from around Florida. The event is free to attend, but will have goods for purchase. (Orlando Weekly)

5. Poinciana reclaimed water service could be unavailable this morning as Toho Water Authority works to mitigate service disruptions during the dry season. Water may be unavailable from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and should be restored by the end of the day. (Osceola News-Gazette)

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Today in Orlando:

• "Christmas Spectacular!" Holiday Home Tour at Stetson Mansion. (10:00 AM)
• Sketching 101 with CFCArts (In Person) at Central Florida Community Arts. (10:00 AM)
• 2021 Homeless Memorial Service at Heritage Square Park. (10:30 AM)
• Varsity Girls Soccer vs Lake Howell at Colonial High School. (6:00 PM)
• 3rd Thursday Gallery Hop at Downtown Arts District. (6:00 PM)

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From my notebook:

• Orlando Food & Travel Guide: "With Christmas and New Year's Eve just around the corner, JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa's holiday offerings has something for the whole family, including Breakfast with Santa! From 7-11 a.m. on Sundays through December an..." (Instagram)
• Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer: "In 1921, the Orlando Police Department Motorcycle Unit was formed. Much has changed when it comes to transportation over the last 100 years, but the motors unit still plays a critical part in our public safety efforts, including promotin..." (Facebook)
• Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida: "You can bring joy this month to families and individuals in crisis! Click here to see the holiday wish-list items we need by Dec. 17 #endhomelessnessnow" (Facebook)
• Thornton Park District: "Cheers to the New Year! Continue the celebration with World of Beer New Year's Day brunch with special food and drink menu. Revive yourself with Hair of the dog and some Banana Fosters Waffles. No reservations needed, first come fi..." (Facebook)

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You're all caught up for today! I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow with your next update.

— Carlos Hernandez

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