Court records show an Apopka teacher was jailed Wednesday after allegations he sexually abused girls in his foster care, according to News 6.

A March 18 fire damaged Zion Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Sanford’s Georgetown neighborhood, threatening a longtime community landmark. Officials released few details.

Florida’s attorney general has subpoenaed Discord in a civil probe into whether the chat app exposes children to predators. The state is seeking moderation, age-verification and NCMEC records.

Andretti Thrill Park in Melbourne has closed and the site will be redeveloped into multifamily housing, ending a 1999‑era local attraction. The parcel on South Babcock Street is eyed for apartments.

Orlando’s F&D Cantina will open at One Daytona in fall 2026, taking over the former Rock Bottom space with a rooftop bar and tequila speakeasy.

Fort Pierce commissioners said March 16 they may end a 15‑year disposal deal with Waste Management after complaints about Miami trash trains offloading near downtown.

About half of Florida’s vacant homes are held for seasonal use — roughly 741,000 units — shrinking the pool of homes available to year‑round buyers and renters.

A proposed Florida law would bar many public employers from requiring preferred pronouns, but lawyers warn it could clash with Title VII and Supreme Court precedent.

Ellianos Coffee has started construction on a drive‑thru at 4940 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway in St. Cloud, joining the chain’s Central Florida expansion. The Lake City‑founded brand says the shop will open later this year.

County records show Walt Disney World filed a construction permit for the Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios, with MLC Theming listed as the contractor. Disney’s schedule shows no closure yet.

Orlando commissioners unanimously approved a roughly 380‑acre development district in Lake Nona, establishing zoning and conditions for denser housing, retail and roads.

Deputies say a Kissimmee mother held a 10‑year‑old down while her children punched him at a Heritage Park Apartments playground; she’s now charged and held on $12,000 bond.

Alligator sightings are rising across Central Florida as mating season approaches. Officials urge keeping distance, securing pets and reporting threatening animals to FWC.