Groveland households reported rust‑colored water from taps this week; city officials blame a pump failure and are flushing the system while residents worry about higher bills.

A rhesus macaque briefly visited the porch of Mount Dora’s Lakeside Inn this week before wildlife specialists arrived. Officials urge residents to keep a safe distance and report sightings.

Federal labor officials say Patina must reinstate and pay back wages to a fired Pizza Ponte cashier after an NLRB complaint filed this spring. A hearing is set for Sept. 15, 2026.

An LGBTQ‑owned cafe in Orlando’s Milk District has made challenged books the centerpiece of its shelves and programming, pairing readings with drag nights and community events. The project aims to keep contested titles accessible as districts tighten review rules.

Primitivo Antonio Batista of Clermont claimed a $21.5M Florida Lotto jackpot and chose an $11.75M lump‑sum payout. The winning Quick Pick was sold at BJ's in Clermont.

A planned Hopetown village would put housing, jobs and services for adults with disabilities on hundreds of acres east of Orlando. Backers call it lifesaving; advocates warn of segregation.

Federal prosecutors say Winter Park’s Azad Plastic Surgery discriminated by refusing consultations to people with HIV and Crohn’s; the clinic will pay $40,000 and change policies.

Teacher shortages are forcing some Orlando preschools to cap enrollment and lean on paid substitute platforms, leaving families with fewer options.

A Winter Haven resident claimed a $2M Jackpot Triple Play prize and accepted a $1.21M lump-sum after buying the ticket in Lakeland. The Florida Lottery confirmed the claim.

State regulators let a Longwood nursing college stay open while capping new admissions after low NCLEX pass rates and a probationary license. The decision leaves students and reviewers watching closely.

Delray Beach wants a permanent memorial for the 49 Pulse victims, but FDOT removals and a new Florida law have complicated the plan. Advocates are now pursuing a privately funded, permanent monument.

Southern Baptist messengers advanced a constitutional amendment to bar churches that employ women pastors; Houston congregations that use pastoral titles say the change could cost cooperative ties.

Lake County Schools plans to consolidate Oak Park and Carver middle schools at the Carver campus to boost electives and ease staffing strain. The district is targeting Fall 2027 for the merged school.