Happy Monday, Orlando. We’ll be kicking off the week with mostly cloudy skies, with a chance of a stray shower or storm to keep things interesting. Expect highs to climb to about 89 degrees 🌡️ Here’s what’s on deck:

• Disney Drops Lawsuit Against DeSantis After New Development Deal

• Orange County to Decide on $3M for NFL Pro Bowl Bid

Let’s dive in.

POLITICS

Disney Drops Lawsuit Against DeSantis After New Development Deal

The Big Picture: Disney has ended its significant legal battle with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis following the approval of a new development agreement, marking the conclusion of a contentious two-year political saga.

What Happened:

• Lawsuit Dropped: Disney withdrew its federal lawsuit, which accused DeSantis and state officials of retaliatory actions against the company.

• New Agreement: The withdrawal followed the approval of a development plan by the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, promising up to $17 billion in investments into Walt Disney World over the next 10 to 20 years. (For more info on the development plan, check out last Friday’s edition here.)

Flashback:

• Initial Dispute: The conflict began with Disney’s opposition to a 2022 Florida law limiting classroom discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity. Disney’s stance led to a clash with DeSantis, who accused the company of promoting inappropriate content.

• Control of Reedy Creek: In response, DeSantis and Florida lawmakers took control of the Reedy Creek Improvement District, which Disney had formerly used to self-govern its parks. Lawmakers subsequently renamed the district and replaced the board.

What They’re Saying:

• Disney: Disney did not comment directly on the legal decision. However, President of Walt Disney World Resort, Jeff Vahle, praised the development deal, highlighting its potential to spur economic growth and enhance guest experiences.

• DeSantis: The governor’s office welcomed the lawsuit’s withdrawal, framing it as a move towards responsible governance and maintaining Florida’s appeal as a top tourist destination.

Why It Matters: This resolution potentially ends a high-profile feud that has had significant implications for both Disney’s operations and Florida’s political landscape, reflecting a broader cultural and political clash.

Read more here (Orlando Sentinel)

ON THE DOCKET

What’s Happening this Week?

1. Head to Inter&Co on Tuesday for Chow on Church, a food event celebrating local businesses. Doors open at 3:30 PM.

2. Juneteenth is this Wednesday, and Orlando Weekly curated a list of events to celebrate.

3. The Orlando Museum of Art is offering free admission on Thursday, from 10 AM to 8 PM. Expect live performances, educational experiences, and a docent-led tour at 7 PM.

EVENTS

Orange County to Decide on $3M for NFL Pro Bowl Bid

What's Happening: Orange County commissioners will decide on allocating $3 million from the Tourist Development Tax to bring the NFL Pro Bowl back to Orlando in 2025.

Approval Needed: The request, made by Florida Citrus Sports at the county Tourist Development Council meeting, received initial approval to be recommended to the Board of County Commissioners. According to Florida Citrus Sports CEO Steve Hogan, it isn’t a done deal but enables the start of negotiations with the NFL.

Context:

• Pro Bowl History: Orlando has hosted five Pro Bowls, including the most recent one earlier this year.

• Tourism Impact: According to Casandra Matej, President and CEO of Visit Orlando, the city welcomed over 74 million visitors last year, making it the top tourist destination in the country. This underscores the importance of events like the Pro Bowl to sustain tourism growth.

Funding Source: The $3 million would come from a 6% tax on short-term rentals, generating over $350 million annually. This tax revenue supports tourism advertising, Visit Orlando, the Orange County Convention Center, and other local cultural projects.

What’s Next: If approved by the commissioners, a decision on whether Orlando will host the Pro Bowl in 2025 is expected shortly after July 4th.

Read more here (Click Orlando)

QUICK HITS

In Other News…

1. Universal’s new DreamWorks Land, featuring, Shrek and Kung Fu Panda, is now open.

2. Orlando City took the L against LA FC on Saturday, notching only 1 goal with a final score of 3-1.

3. The Pride remained unbeaten, securing the draw on the road against the also undefeated North Carolina Courage.

4. UCF’s head basketball coach Johnny Dawkins signed a two-year contract extension, keeping him with the program through the 2026-2027 season.

Thanks for tuning in to today’s edition of the newsletter. See you back here tomorrow.

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