Mi Tierra plans a North Fourth Street outpost in Haines City, promising Dominican sandwiches, burgers and plates; owners are targeting a spring opening.

Apopka police and a licensed trapper removed a large alligator from a residential neighborhood Tuesday. Officials remind residents to keep pets leashed and call FWC’s nuisance hotline.

Sanford temporarily closed its Paw Park for treatment after a surge of fuzzy tussock caterpillars whose barbed hairs can cause painful rashes. Officials say targeted spraying will follow.

Viral PopUp Bagels has signed for a 1,500‑sq‑ft space at Waterford Lakes Town Center as MPZ Holdings ramps a Florida rollout.

Warm, humid Wednesday with highs near 82°F; east‑coast beaches are under a high rip‑current risk through mid‑week. Boating conditions will worsen Thursday.

The Orlando Museum of Art has been reaccredited by the American Alliance of Museums, ending probation tied to the Basquiat forgery probe and restoring a key credential.

The Beacham has filed plans to restore its Orange Avenue façade to a midcentury look with a new digital marquee; city staff recommended approval. The move pairs a refreshed exterior with retooled programming to re-anchor downtown nightlife.

A Winter Haven toddler was briefly left in a Lyft after the driver pulled away from a RaceTrac. Police and Lyft tracked the ride and reunited the child unharmed.

A Daytona Beach man has asked Edgewater to pay $180,000 after a May arrest outside a CVS; body‑camera video, dropped charges and a pre‑suit notice put the city on a six‑month clock.

DeSantis announced he signed bills to stiffen penalties for dangerous crimes and sexual offenses, including tougher sentences for child sexual‑abuse material and remand rules.

Danish juice chain Joe & The Juice will open a 3,100‑sq‑ft shop at Waterford Lakes Town Center in Orlando; an exact opening date hasn't been announced.

An Oviedo man was convicted in Orlando of attempting to coerce and entice a minor online. He faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and possibly life behind bars.

Culver’s is projecting 59 new U.S. restaurants in 2026, the chain’s largest expansion in years. Florida stands to gain the most from the push.