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Orange County Animal Services Launches Adoption Drive with Reduced Fees to Tackle Overcrowding
Orange County Animal Services is encouraging adoptions with reduced fees after a temporary closure, targeting 214 shelter dogs and many cats, especially those with destination-themed names, during a high-intake period.
Winter Springs and Orlando Safety Officials Urge Caution with Fireworks Ahead of Fourth of July Festivities
Officials emphasize safety for Fourth of July celebrations, noting that fireworks pose serious risks and citing statistics on related injuries and fatalities. Safety tips include enjoying professional displays rather than personal use.
Florida Test Scores Demonstrate Progress Amid Educational Debate, with Central Florida Schools Showing Notable Gains
The Florida Department of Education's new FAST test scores suggest student improvement statewide, with success stories in Central Florida, yet opinions vary on the significance and utility of this standardized testing approach.
Orlando Magic Founder Pat Williams in Critical Condition with Pneumonia at AdventHealth Orlando
Orlando Magic founder Pat Williams is critically ill with pneumonia in ICU, with a grim outlook on his health. His NBA legacy includes roles with several teams and lifetime achievement recognition. His family is requesting prayers.
Central Florida School Districts Announce Start Dates and Flexible Calendars for 2024-2025 Academic Year
Central Florida schools are prepping for the upcoming school year, with start dates around August 12-14. They've set holidays and possible make-up days, and the state offers a Sales Tax Holiday from July 29 to August 11 for back-to-school shopping.
Orlando Ends Brief Nighttime Parking Restrictions Downtown, City Apologizes for Miscommunication
The temporary restrictions on nighttime parking in Orlando's downtown garages are lifted, after being in effect for one weekend. The city aims to clarify confusion and support late-night business activities.
Orange County Offers Grants for Neighborhood Makeovers: Apply Now for Beautification and Sustainability Projects
Orange County offers grants for neighborhood improvements, including beautification and sustainability projects, with a total of $460,000 available for eligible subdivisions. Applications are due Oct. 10.
Orlando Magic and Guard Cole Anthony Equip Over 1,500 Central Florida Students with Back-to-School Supplies
Cole Anthony and the Orlando Magic provided over 1,500 students in Central Florida with school supplies, highlighted by Anthony's involvement and recognition with the Rich & Helen DeVos Community Enrichment Award.
Florida's Appeal: Tampa and Orlando Shine in New U.S. City Rankings
Tampa is now America's most desirable city to live as per a Clever Real Estate survey, with factors like low crime and cost of living boosting its rank. Washington, D.C., is now among the least desired due to political fatigue and high costs.
Orlando Homelessness Plan Faces Setback as City Withdraws Shelter Proposal Amid Community Opposition
Orlando officials withdrew a $7.5 million proposal for a new 250-bed homeless shelter due to community opposition, revealing challenges in addressing the region's shelter deficit and housing affordability issues.
Orlando Honors POW/MIAs in Poignant Ceremony Ahead of National Day of Remembrance
Orlando held a ceremony to honor POWs/MIAs, with Mayor Dyer emphasizing the commitment to bring service members home. Keith Maupin spoke about his son Matt, a soldier found deceased in Iraq after being captured in 2004.
Orlando Implements New Ordinance to Spread Nightlife Scene, Requires 300-Foot Separation for Nightclubs
Orlando's downtown enforces a new rule separating nightclubs by 300 feet, aiming to reduce clustering and spread out social activity. Existing clubs are grandfathered in; new ones must adhere to this spacing policy.
Waste Pro Service Announces Rescheduled Garbage Collection in Oviedo, Residents to Adjust Waste Disposal Plans for One-Day Interruption
Waste Pro Service suspends garbage collections scheduled for Thursday, September 26, 2024, with services to resume on Friday and continue to Saturday due to an unspecified issue.
Books on the Move, Astor Branch Library Prepares for Lake County Debut After Relocation
The Astor Branch Library in Lake County is moving to a new location, with the last day at the current site on October 5. A soft opening of the new facility is planned for October 23, pending final inspections and setups.
Osceola County Ramps Up Preparations as Hurricane Milton Nears, Sandbag Giveaway Underway
Osceola County prepares for Hurricane Milton, increasing Emergency Operations Center readiness and distributing sandbags, while urging residents to ready for impact and providing info through a hotline and online resources.
Central Florida Braces for Hurricane Milton, UCF, Valencia College Suspend Operations, Orlando and Tampa Airports on Alert
Hurricane Milton prompts school closures and transit suspensions in Central Florida, including the UCF and Valencia College shutdowns, while the local transportation services adjust operations for safety.
Sanford Community Rallies Together Post-Hurricane Milton, Spotlighted by Local Police’s Showing of Unity and Resilience
The Sanford Police shared photos on social media of their collaborative efforts with the Fire and City staff in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, highlighting the unified response and ongoing recovery.
Winter Garden Implements Seasonal Watering Schedule to Conserve Resources as Daylight Saving Ends
The City of Winter Garden announces that with the end of daylight saving time, residents must adjust their irrigation systems to water lawns once a week, as per a conservation ordinance effective November through March.
Apopka Grapples with Persistent Flooding, Officials Scramble for Solutions in Hurricane Milton's Wake
Apopka residents struggle with flooding a week after Hurricane Milton, with local authorities working on solutions as neighborhoods like Wekiva Village face increasing water levels and power outages.
Lake County Launches 16th Annual Adopt-a-Lake Calendar Photo Contest for Local Photographers
Lake County's Adopt-a-Lake Program has started its 2025 Calendar Contest, inviting residents to submit photos of local waterbodies for a chance to feature in the calendar. Voting for semi-finalists will be open to the public.
Orlando Residents Rally Against Proposed Homeless Shelter in SODO District Ahead of City Council Meeting
Residents in Orlando's SODO district express concerns over a proposed new homeless shelter, fearing safety and property value impacts. They plan to oppose the plan at the upcoming city council meeting.
Osceola County to Support Elders with New Low-Income Senior Rental Assistance Program Starting November 11
Osceola County District 3 is initiating a Senior Rental Assistance Program on November 11 to aid low-income seniors with up to 50% of their rent for three months. Eligibility is based on age, residence duration, and income guidelines.
Orlando Hotel Magnate and Philanthropist Harris Rosen Dies at 85
Harris Rosen, renowned Orlando hotelier and philanthropist, passed away at 85 due to complications from surgery. His significant contributions spanned hospitality and education, enhancing community welfare and offering support to underserved areas.
Orlando Volunteers and Valencia College Students Team Up to Provide 8,500 Thanksgiving Meals to Those in Need
Valencia College culinary students and the Salvation Army prepared over 8,500 meals for the needy in Orlando this Thanksgiving, while the Orlando Magic served breakfast to the homeless for the 32nd year.
Kissimmee Resident Strikes Lottery Luck Thrice, Netting $1M Among Other Wins in Florida Lottery's '500X THE CASH'
John Schaafsma from Kissimmee won $1 million in the Florida Lottery's '500X THE CASH' game, his third win following two $1,000 prizes. His big win resulted in a $640,000 lump-sum and a $2,000 bonus for the store that sold the ticket.
Mount Dora Engulfed by Mysterious Odor as Residents Await Study Results, Health and Home Value Concerns Rise
Mount Dora residents are dealing with a mysterious foul smell, suspected to originate from the local wastewater treatment plant. Efforts to identify the source remain inconclusive, causing health and property value concerns among the community.
Orange County Commissioners Consider Oversight for Rural Church Development Amidst Community Debate
Orange County commissioners discuss creating an oversight board for church developments in rural areas, clarifying that a building moratorium is not proposed. Residents express concerns about environmental impact and preservation of rural lands.
Orlando Five Guys Employee Epitomizes Federal Program's Success in Job Placement for People with Disabilities
The federal Community Development Block Grant program, aiding people with disabilities secure jobs through nonprofits like Primrose Center, celebrates its 50th anniversary, highlighting its impact on local communities and employment.
Orange County's Veteran Services Office Intensifies Outreach to Educate 71,000 Local Veterans on Entitlements
The Orange County Veterans Services Office is working to inform the local veteran population about available services and benefits, conducting outreach and educational sessions to bridge the information gap.
Lake County's Waterman Early Learning Academy to Shutter Amid Rent Surge, Leaving Families Desperate for Childcare Solutions
The Waterman Early Learning Academy in Lake County is closing due to a tenfold rent increase by its building owner, AdventHealth, leaving parents scrambling for new daycare options.
Orange County Ushers in New Era of Fiscal Wellness with Opening of Financial Empowerment Centers
Orange County opens a Financial Empowerment Center offering free financial counseling to aid residents with budgeting, savings, and managing debt. The initiative aims to provide financial literacy for economic stability.
Orange County School Safety Talks Intensify as Negotiations Over Resource Officers Unfold
Orange County, Florida, is discussing the future of school resource officers in district schools, amid contract negotiations with local law enforcement and concerns about the adequacy of the Guardian Program as an alternative.
Master Gardeners Cultivate Eco-Friendly Landscaping in Orange County Amid Central Florida's Growth
Master Gardener Volunteers in Orange County, FL, educate new residents on local horticulture to promote sustainable gardening and ecosystem health. They provide free clinics, advice, and support to the community.
Orlando Prepares to Finalize Pulse Nightclub Memorial Design, Honoring Victims and Survivors
An advisory committee is finalizing plans for a permanent memorial at the Pulse Nightclub massacre site, incorporating community input and commemorating the victims with elements like 49 columns and a reflection space.
Orlando Kicks Off Year-Long Sesquicentennial Celebration with Banner Unveiling and Community Engagement
Orlando has launched its 150th-anniversary celebrations, featuring a commemorative banner, the "Orlando Collected" exhibit, and other cultural events, culminating on July 31 with free cultural attractions.
Orlando Arrests for Illegal Camping Surge As Enforcement of New Homeless Law Intensifies
Orlando police are enforcing a new state law by arresting homeless individuals for camping on public property, leading to a significant increase in arrests and raising concerns about the city's approach to homelessness.
From Clerk to Senior Code Compliance Inspector: Teresa Jones Embodies Resilience in Orange County During Black History Month
Teresa Jones, a Senior Code Compliance Inspector in Orange County, is recognized for her rise from an entry-level clerk to a leader, exemplifying perseverance and triumph during Black History Month.
Pine Hills Community Commemorates Victims on Second Anniversary of Mass Shooting, Families File Suit Against Orange County Sheriff's Office
Pine Hills community held a walk against gun violence to honor victims of a mass shooting two years ago, including a 9-year-old girl, and a lawsuit has been filed against Orange County Sheriff’s Office for alleged negligence.
Oviedo Water Treatment Plant Battles Recurring Equipment Failures, Disrupting Fluoride Dosing
The West Mitchell Hammock Water Treatment Plant's fluoride dosing has faced pauses due to equipment issues, including outdated, malfunctioning fluoride analyzers, prompting the City of Oviedo to seek replacements.
University of South Florida Under Federal Investigation Over Alleged Race-Based Scholarships and Programs
The US Department of Education is investigating the University of South Florida and over 50 other institutions for racial biases in education programs that may exclude white and Asian American students.
Palm Coast Mayor Joins Residents in Opposition to Controversial $80 Million Fuel Terminal Project
Palm Coast's proposed $80M fuel terminal faces opposition from residents and a change of heart by the Mayor; environmental concerns drive resistance, while supporters cite economic benefits. A decisive City Council meeting is approaching.
Brevard County Teacher Loses Job for Using Student's Preferred Name in Defiance of Florida Law
Florida teacher Melissa Calhoun's contract will not be renewed after she used a student's preferred name without parental consent, violating state law. Her dismissal sparked backlash and petitions for reinstatement.
Volusia County School Board Faces Backlash Over $8 Million DeBary Land Purchase for New School
There's a dispute between the Volusia County School Board and DeBary city officials over the location for a new school, with opposition to the School Board's $8 million land purchase plan due to potential community disruption and legal issues.
Volusia County Emergency Teams Hone Skills with Pediatric Drowning Drills Ahead of Summer Season
Volusia County's emergency responders conducted pediatric drowning simulations in preparation for summer, coordinated by multiple agencies to improve life-saving skills and efficiency during water-related incidents.
Kissimmee Resident Hits $2 Million Jackpot with Silver Streak Scratch-Off Lottery Ticket
Pamela Silva from Kissimmee became a millionaire by winning $2 million from a $10 Silver Streak lottery ticket and chose a lump-sum payment of $1,195,000 before taxes. The selling store received a $4,000 bonus commission.
Orange County Public Schools Pauses Construction as Enrollment Declines Pose Financial Challenges
OCPS has halted new school construction due to a drop in student enrollment, leading to financial strains and potentially teacher layoffs. They are trying to re-enroll students with help from Caissa Public Strategy to stabilize numbers.
Volusia County Schools Unleash AI Guardian "ZeroEyes" to Sniff Out Guns and Shield Students in Florida
Volusia County Schools implements the AI gun detection system, ZeroEyes, to enhance school security by integrating it with existing camera systems for quick threat identification and response coordination.
Lake County Deputies Honored for Bravery During Fatal Ambush Incident, Community Pays Tribute
Lake County honored fallen deputy Bradley Link and wounded colleagues for their bravery during an ambush in 2024, ten months after the incident. They received the Hero to Hero Award from the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Orlando Seeks $5M from Orange County for Pulse Memorial Amid Financial Inquiry into Defunct Foundation
Orlando seeks $5 million from Orange County to help fund the $12 million Pulse Memorial. Past financial concerns with the dissolved onePULSE Foundation's handling of funds for the project prompt scrutiny by county officials.
Lockheed Martin Employees in Orlando and Denver Secure New Contract with Significant Wage Increases After Strike
Lockheed Martin employees ended their strike by approving a new union contract that includes wage increases, enhanced retirement benefits, and improved parental leave. The UAW-represented workers had been striking over alleged labor law violations.
Orlando Remembers Pulse Massacre Victims on 9th Anniversary with Poignant Site Visits Before Demolition
Survivors and relatives of the Pulse nightclub shooting victims visit the site before demolition, with Orlando planning a permanent memorial by 2027. Mixed emotions are expressed as the city commemorates the tragedy's ninth anniversary.
Orlando Advances Plans for Pulse Memorial, City Council Approves Construction Contract and Land Purchase
Orlando advances Pulse memorial construction, with the City Council authorizing negotiations with Gomez Construction and land purchase for visitor facilities, honoring the 49 victims of the 2016 tragedy.
Orange County Public Schools Face Enrollment Decline and Funding Shortfall, Seminole County Also Impacted
OCPS faces a projected enrollment shortfall and funding cut, prompting a pause in construction and recruitment efforts. Despite challenges, technological advancements and a proactive stance aim to recoup losses and enhance the education experience.
Orange County Extends Boil Water Notice Through Weekend After Disturbing Lab Results
Orange County's boil water notice is extended due to poor lab results after a water main break. Residents should boil water before use. Northbound lanes near the break site are rerouted. The Utilities department will inform when water is safe again.
Florida Officials Remove Rainbow Crosswalk at Orlando's Pulse Nightclub Memorial, Community Leaders Decry Act as Politically Charged
The rainbow crosswalk at Pulse nightclub was removed by the FDOT as a "political banner," prompting criticism from local officials and community leaders. They argue the removal was politically motivated and not about safety.
Winter Springs Parks and Recreation Heroes Honored for Saving Dogs from Seminole County House Fire
Winter Springs Parks and Rec employees were honored for saving two dogs, Chacha and Snowball, from a house fire, with a third dog, Rue, sadly perishing. They received Community Hero Awards for their bravery.
Orange County School District Adopts $7.5 Billion Budget Amid Enrollment Decline, Averts Teacher Layoffs
The Orange County School District approved a $7.5 billion budget amid a student enrollment drop, aiming to reallocate staff without layoffs and criticizing state funding for education. They are also following state vaccine mandate changes.
Orange County Resident Challenges Pluris Over $4,400 Water Bill Amid Absence and System Glitch Claims
Orange County resident Annika Martin disputes a $4,400 water bill from Pluris, suspecting a glitch with her meter readings during a period when she was away from home. The company, after testing the meter, has offered a reduced bill of $1,800.
Orange County to Build Florida's Largest Animal Shelter: A $49M State-of-the-Art Facility by 2027
Orange County commissioners approved building Florida's largest animal shelter. The $49 million facility will accommodate about 265 dogs and 200 cats, aiming to offer a stress-free environment for animals, staff, and visitors by summer 2027.
Seminole County Animal Shelter in Dire Need amid Overcrowding Crisis, Adoptions Fees Waived
The Seminole County animal shelter is overcapacity at 151%, with animals in stacked crates. To encourage adoptions, fees are waived through an anonymous donation. The shelter seeks community support to alleviate the situation.
Casselberry Police Add Luxury McLaren to Fleet for Community Outreach, Not Patrol Duties
The Casselberry Police Department has added a McLaren for community engagement, not patrol. Donated by McLaren Orlando, it's aimed at promoting safety and relations, with no cost to taxpayers. The department seeks to foster dialogue at public events.
Lake County and Groveland Square Off Against Kroger Over Closure of Facility and Lost Incentives
Lake County is seeking to recover $1.3 million in incentives after Kroger closed its Groveland center, affecting 1,000 jobs. Officials liken the closure's impact to a disaster and plan to support displaced workers.
Lake County Seeks Over $1.3 Million in Economic Incentives from Kroger After Groveland Center Closure
Lake County seeks to recover $1.3 million in incentives from Kroger and Ocado after the firms closed a Groveland facility, laying off 1,400 workers. Funds may be reallocated for worker education and road projects.
Orlando Erupts in Mixed Reaction to U.S. Capture of Venezuelan President Maduro: Floridians Divided on Intervention
Floridians react differently to the U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, with some protesting against American intervention and others celebrating what they hope marks a new beginning.
Lake County Eyes Noise Ordinance to Preserve Tranquility at Silver Glen Springs Run
Lake County commissioners are considering a noise ordinance to reduce loud music from boats at Silver Glen Springs Run, reflecting visitors' and wildlife advocates' concerns. Repeat violators could face second-degree misdemeanor charges.
Orlando’s Orange Center Elementary Set for Transformation into Florida’s First Public-Private Charter School
Orange Center Elementary School in Orlando is set to become Florida's first public-private charter school following a decisive parental vote, in partnership with Lift Orlando and Orange County Public Schools.
WWII Veteran and Purple Heart Recipient Herbert Maneloveg Celebrates 101st Birthday with Special Honors at Disney World's Magic Kingdom
WWII veteran Herbert Maneloveg celebrated his 101st birthday at Disney World, honored at the Flag Retreat Ceremony for his service and Purple Heart from the Battle of the Bulge.
Lake Howell AP Teacher Benched After ‘Genderbread’ Lesson Ignites Parent Firestorm
An AP literature lesson at Lake Howell High drew parental complaints after a "Genderbread" infographic was shown; Seminole County officials say the teacher is on leave and the district is investigating. The case hinges on how state rules define age‑appropriate instruction.
Florida Scrubs Abortion Clinic Search Tool, Leaves Patients Clicking In The Dark
The state health agency removed the labeled "abortion clinic" option from its provider finder this week, prompting calls for explanation from advocates. Access groups say the change could make locating licensed care harder.
Orlando Chef Turns Parking Lot Into Rainbow Rebellion After State Scrubs Pulse Crosswalk
After state crews painted over the Pulse rainbow crosswalk, Se7enBites owner Trina Gregory opened 49 parking spots to artists as a lasting protest and memorial. The privately painted stalls are meant to be permanent.
BookBurn Cafe Brings Banned Books To Orlando’s Milk District
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.
Overnight Shutdown Rocks UCF As Downtown Library, Tech Lending Go Dark
UCF closed two branch libraries and took its LibTech desks offline Thursday, cutting access to loaner laptops, cameras and other gear while some staff roles were eliminated. Students and former employees say the move was sudden and confusing.
