Happy Monday, Orlando. We’ll see a hot, humid start to the week with highs in the low 90s and a chance of afternoon storms both today and tomorrow. Nights stay warm in the mid-70s with scattered thunderstorms possible, especially Tuesday evening.

Here’s what’s on deck:

• Florida Bets on Gene-Edited Trees to Save Citrus

• What’s Happening This Week? (Hockey, Post Malone, Museum Events)

• Orlando-Based Red Lobster Backs Pro Hoops League in Rebrand Push

Let’s dive in.

SCIENCE

Florida Bets on Gene-Edited Trees to Save Citrus

The big picture: Florida researchers are betting on gene editing to revive the state’s citrus industry — which has been devastated by citrus greening, a disease that’s wiped out more than half of all citrus-bearing acres statewide.

Why it matters: Once a symbol of Florida’s agricultural might, the citrus sector has seen production fall 90% since the disease took hold two decades ago. Growers have tried everything from antibiotics to steam treatments, but solutions proved too costly or short-lived. With no cure and rising costs, many growers have shut down or sold off land to developers.

Driving the news: A new partnership between the University of Florida and a biotech company is testing gene-edited citrus trees designed to resist the bacteria behind citrus greening — also known as HLB. These trees are modified using CRISPR technology to block the infection process.

• The modified trees are already showing strong early resistance.

• Researchers say some trees have such low levels of the bacteria that it’s nearly undetectable.

What’s next: If all goes as planned, commercially viable, greening-resistant trees could hit the market by late 2026 or early 2027 — offering the first real path to rebuilding Florida’s citrus groves.

What they're saying: “This is key to getting back,” said lifelong grower Ron English, whose family has been in citrus since the 1800s. “Once people start planting again, it’ll catch on.”

Bottom line: Even with a breakthrough, recovery will take time. Many growers have left the industry, and rebuilding infrastructure and trust won’t happen overnight. But hope is growing — and with science on their side, Florida’s groves might just bear fruit again.

Source: PBS News

ON THE DOCKET

What’s Happening This Week?

1. The Florida Panthers are back for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals tonight, taking on the Oilers at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise. Puck drop is set for 8 PM.

2. Post Malone brings his BIG ASS Stadium Tour to Camping World Stadium on Tuesday. Doors open at 5 PM for a 6:30 show. Guest artists include Jelly Roll and Sierra Ferrell.

3. The Orlando Museum of Art hosts Art Night Out on Wednesday from 6 to 8:30 PM, where artist Gabriela Hernandez will lead guests in a mandala-making class.

BUSINESS

Orlando-Based Red Lobster Backs Pro Hoops League in Rebrand Push

The big picture: Orlando-based Red Lobster is shaking up its brand playbook with a new national sports partnership — becoming the official restaurant sponsor of BIG3, the fast-growing 3-on-3 basketball league co-founded by musician Ice Cube.

Why it matters: The sponsorship marks Red Lobster’s first major marketing move since exiting bankruptcy last fall, as it works to modernize its image and reach younger, diverse audiences. The deal puts the chain's name courtside in a league known for big personalities, flashy plays, and former NBA talent.

Driving the news: Red Lobster will sponsor BIG3’s upcoming summer season, which kicks off June 14th in Chicago and ends August 24th with the championship game at Orlando’s Addition Financial Arena.

• Branded giveaways like lobster claw foam fingers and food vouchers will be handed out at games.

• Red Lobster will also put its name on the “Bring the Fire” rule — a 1-on-1 challenge format that replaces coach’s challenges with live showdowns.

What’s next: Red Lobster, now led by CEO Damola Adamolekun, aims to be profitable by 2026. Partnering with BIG3 is part of a broader push to modernize the brand, tap into pop culture, and reestablish national relevance after bankruptcy.

Source: OBJ

QUICK HITS

In Other News…

1. A petition opposing a proposal to stop alcohol sales at midnight in downtown Orlando has gathered over 800 signatures ahead of the City Council’s June 9th meeting.

2. Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez was arrested Thursday on racketeering and conspiracy charges tied to a $21 million illegal gambling ring in Kissimmee. Gov. DeSantis has suspended Lopez and appointed a new interim sheriff.

3. Lu, the iconic hippopotamus at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, died Sunday at age 65. A former TV star and Florida’s only honorary hippo, Lu had lived at the park since 1964 and became a beloved symbol of the state.

Thanks for reading — See you back here on Wednesday.

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