BREAKING NEWS
What do local NPR, PBS stations do? Trump Admin. intends to defund public media
Read full article: What do local NPR, PBS stations do? Trump Admin. intends to defund public mediaIf you grew up watching Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, or more recently (your children perhaps), Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, those shows existed, in part, because American taxpayers paid and continue to pay for them. The Trump Administration is attempting to change that.
Opening date, menu revealed for EPCOT’s new Spaceship Earth lounge
Read full article: Opening date, menu revealed for EPCOT’s new Spaceship Earth loungeNestled within Spaceship Earth, GEO-82 honors the longtime attraction and Disney World’s second-oldest park, while offering a menu of classic cocktails and small plates.
Artificial intelligence company seeks dismissal of lawsuit over 14-year-old’s suicide
Read full article: Artificial intelligence company seeks dismissal of lawsuit over 14-year-old’s suicideAn artificial intelligence company is asking a federal judge to dismiss a wrongful death lawsuit filed by a Central Florida mother who claims her 14-year-old son committed suicide after becoming “addicted” to an AI chatbot app.
Orlando’s downtown traffic to face months of detours as major road project kicks off
Read full article: Orlando’s downtown traffic to face months of detours as major road project kicks offThe city has closed a key section of Summerlin Avenue as part of a long-term effort to replace aging underground systems and prevent future failures.
Man killed, 9-month-old among 3 hurt in crash on SR-408 in Orange County, FHP says
Read full article: Man killed, 9-month-old among 3 hurt in crash on SR-408 in Orange County, FHP saysA crash on State Road 408 in Orange County killed a man, left three other people with serious injuries and forced the closure of all eastbound lanes, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
‘Expect road closures:’ Crews battle 25-acre brush fire near Apopka Expressway in Orange County
Read full article: ‘Expect road closures:’ Crews battle 25-acre brush fire near Apopka Expressway in Orange CountyCrews in Orange County are battling a brush fire that is causing traffic headaches for motorists on Saturday afternoon.
Evans High School students get results with community cleanup, more during day of service
Read full article: Evans High School students get results with community cleanup, more during day of serviceA group of Evans High School students participated in a day of service for their school by writing letters of appreciation, joining a community cleanup and more.
Clothes, necessities and more collected for donation in Light Orlando closet clean-out
Read full article: Clothes, necessities and more collected for donation in Light Orlando closet clean-outVolunteers with Light Orlando spent a sunny Saturday morning getting results for charities across Central Florida.
Housing NOW! rally protests ban on public sleeping, camping in Florida
Read full article: Housing NOW! rally protests ban on public sleeping, camping in FloridaA small but enthusiastic group gathered this week for the Housing NOW! rally at Orlando’s Gaston Edwards Park, spearheaded by the Framily Support Network and Aaron E. Lewis, a co-founder of the network and a candidate for Orlando City Council.
EpiPen training bill for schools passes Florida Senate, awaits House approval
Read full article: EpiPen training bill for schools passes Florida Senate, awaits House approvalA bill championed by an Orange County mother that would require EpiPen and anaphylaxis training in some school programs is a step closer to getting to Gov. DeSantis’ desk.
Garden Theatre to get new life after Winter Garden OKs business plan
Read full article: Garden Theatre to get new life after Winter Garden OKs business planOn Thursday, Winter Garden leaders unanimously approved a plan to revive the historic Garden Theatre, focusing on concerts, special events, and limited rentals.
Sense of pride: Check out Lisa Bell’s review of Disney’s ‘The Lion King’
Read full article: Sense of pride: Check out Lisa Bell’s review of Disney’s ‘The Lion King’“The Lion King” will be performing at the Dr. Phillips Center until May 18, and on certain nights, guests will get to see Orlando’s own Julian Villela perform as young Simba.
Suspect sentenced to 25 years after pleading guilty in deadly Orlando drive-by shooting
Read full article: Suspect sentenced to 25 years after pleading guilty in deadly Orlando drive-by shootingOne of the five suspects arrested in the wake of a 2023 drive-by shooting which killed a 6-year-old girl and a 19-year-old man in Orlando has been sentenced to decades in jail, records show.
Major League Baseball in Orlando one step closer as group secures $1.5B to bring franchise to Central Florida
Read full article: Major League Baseball in Orlando one step closer as group secures $1.5B to bring franchise to Central FloridaThe Orlando Dreamers — led by MLB Hall of Famer Barry Larkin — says it’s one step closer to bringing an MLB franchise to Orlando.
Hectic 100 mph car chase on I-4 ends with crash in Orlando, troopers say
Read full article: Hectic 100 mph car chase on I-4 ends with crash in Orlando, troopers sayA stolen car found in Altamonte Springs led troopers on a hectic car chase along the highway into downtown Orlando on Thursday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
At Orange County town hall, advocates ask: Would you support a homeless shelter?
Read full article: At Orange County town hall, advocates ask: Would you support a homeless shelter?A town hall meeting on Thursday evening invites the public to ask questions about the issue of homelessness in east Orange County, and what people can do.
Matthew’s Hope considers homeless services cuts in Brevard, Orange counties after donation cut
Read full article: Matthew’s Hope considers homeless services cuts in Brevard, Orange counties after donation cutMatthew’s Hope provides a wide array of services for homeless people in West Orange County and in Brevard County, from transitional housing to medical help to a preschool for homeless children. But after a large donor had to cut back funding, the group's founder says they may have to cut services.
Major League Pickleball’s Orlando Squeeze hosts 2025 season opener in Lake Nona
Read full article: Major League Pickleball’s Orlando Squeeze hosts 2025 season opener in Lake NonaNow is the time many Pickleball fans have been waiting for. The 2025 Major League Pickleball season is kicking-off in Central Florida.
Woman accused of setting fires during burn ban in Orange County
Read full article: Woman accused of setting fires during burn ban in Orange CountyUpon arrival, deputies met with a representative from the Department of Forestry, who allegedly witnessed Amanda Clark setting multiple fires in the woods behind the residence, the arrest report states.
Former Disney employee sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to altering allergen info on menu items
Read full article: Former Disney employee sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to altering allergen info on menu itemsThe former Walt Disney World employee who was arrested amid accusations he altered allergen information on menus after being terminated has been sentenced to three years in federal prison.
Orange County jail sees inmate increase after ICE agreement, called ‘the highest we’ve seen’
Read full article: Orange County jail sees inmate increase after ICE agreement, called ‘the highest we’ve seen’This week, Orange County commissioners learned how many people were being held on ICE detainers in the jail, increasing the size of the jail's population. Here's what we know about the inmates.
‘Significant progress:’ Orange-Osceola State Attorney Monique Worrell gives ‘quarterly update’
Read full article: ‘Significant progress:’ Orange-Osceola State Attorney Monique Worrell gives ‘quarterly update’Orange-Osceola State Attorney Monique Worrell will hold a news conference in Orlando to share her “quarterly updates,” according to a news release.
Orlando woman killed, man injured when car rear-ends moped on SR-50 in Christmas, troopers say
Read full article: Orlando woman killed, man injured when car rear-ends moped on SR-50 in Christmas, troopers sayFlorida troopers say a 42-year-old Orlando woman was killed and a 44-year-old Christmas man was critically injured in an Orange County crash.
‘SOUND AND FURY:’ Will wages in Central Florida grow or shrink? Here’s what the numbers show
Read full article: ‘SOUND AND FURY:’ Will wages in Central Florida grow or shrink? Here’s what the numbers showThe forecast looks at housing, unemployment and industry trends across the state, though a big topic of discussion is how wages may change going forward.
Disney vs. Universal: Orlando’s theme park war heats up as Epic Universe nears grand opening
Read full article: Disney vs. Universal: Orlando’s theme park war heats up as Epic Universe nears grand openingWith the opening of Epic Universe just weeks away, Universal Orlando is adding more than just another theme park. It’s launching an entire destination resort that includes new immersive lands, hotels, and experiences designed to rival Walt Disney World’s long-standing grip on the market.
5 candidates qualify in Florida Senate District 15 special election; Democratic primary set for June
Read full article: 5 candidates qualify in Florida Senate District 15 special election; Democratic primary set for JuneCandidates include Former State Sen. Randolph Bracy, State Rep. LaVon Bracy Davis, former Congressman Alan Grayson, attorney Coretta Anthony-Smith, and nonprofit founder Willie J. Montague.
Suspect pleads guilty, sentenced to life in killing of Orlando pastor’s wife
Read full article: Suspect pleads guilty, sentenced to life in killing of Orlando pastor’s wifeThe man who police say fatally attacked the wife of an Orlando pastor in her home pleaded guilty to the killing and was sentenced to life in prison, according to the Ninth Judicial Circuit.
🦢 Taxidermy swan one of 150 artifacts in ‘Orlando Collected’ exhibit
Read full article: 🦢 Taxidermy swan one of 150 artifacts in ‘Orlando Collected’ exhibitOrlando turns 150 this year, and its story is being told through 150 rare artifacts in the "Orlando Collected" exhibit at the Orange County Regional History Museum.
Central Florida school districts manage budget uncertainty as state diverts billions via vouchers
Read full article: Central Florida school districts manage budget uncertainty as state diverts billions via vouchersK-12 public schools across the Central Florida area are facing budget pressure as the state continues to allocate education funds to private and home-school students by using voucher programs.
Winter Park to vote on school police officer agreement following tense funding standoff
Read full article: Winter Park to vote on school police officer agreement following tense funding standoffThe City of Winter Park is set to vote on whether to move forward with a new agreement to keep police officers on public school campuses, ending a monthslong standoff with Orange County Public Schools.
Jury convicts a California judge of second-degree murder in his wife’s shooting death
Read full article: Jury convicts a California judge of second-degree murder in his wife’s shooting deathJurors have convicted a Southern California judge of second-degree murder for fatally shooting his wife while they argued at home while watching TV.
Florida House tax plan would let counties use tourist tax dollars for any need
Read full article: Florida House tax plan would let counties use tourist tax dollars for any needA proposed amendment to the House tax package (HB 7033) would override existing statutes, enabling counties to access TDT funds for general use rather than strictly for tourism-related projects.
COUNTY-BY-COUNTY: Sign up for Central Florida emergency alerts
Read full article: COUNTY-BY-COUNTY: Sign up for Central Florida emergency alertsFrom boil water notices to sand bag locations to shelters, emergency alerts are sent out by the county to get important information to its residents — especially during a major storm or hurricane.
Cabin pressurization issue forces Delta flight to return to Orlando International Airport
Read full article: Cabin pressurization issue forces Delta flight to return to Orlando International AirportAccording to a spokesperson from Delta Air Lines, the aircraft was on a regularly scheduled service from Orlando to Atlanta, carrying 199 customers and six crew members, along with one jumpseat pilot.
Woman killed, man hurt when motorcycles collide into I-4 wall near Maitland, throwing them off overpass
Read full article: Woman killed, man hurt when motorcycles collide into I-4 wall near Maitland, throwing them off overpassThe FHP investigates a fatal motorcycle crash after two bikers were thrown from an I-4 overpass in Orange County to the ground below.
Orange County Public Schools may pay consultant to recruit students back to public classrooms
Read full article: Orange County Public Schools may pay consultant to recruit students back to public classroomsOrange County Public Schools could soon pay a consultant nearly $1,000 per student to help bring families back to traditional public schools.
72-year-old man arrested in 1991 St. Cloud cold case murder, police say
Read full article: 72-year-old man arrested in 1991 St. Cloud cold case murder, police sayMore than three decades after 27-year-old Julia Sue Wilbanks was found stabbed to death in St. Cloud, police said they’ve solved the cold case using DNA evidence and genetic genealogy.
Madeline Soto’s accused killer has ‘confidential information’ about case, defense claims
Read full article: Madeline Soto’s accused killer has ‘confidential information’ about case, defense claimsThe man accused of raping and murdering 13-year-old Madeline Soto is asking a judge to delay an upcoming court hearing because his attorneys have recently obtained “confidential information” related to the case, court records show.
‘A lot of excitement:’ Magic fans rally in downtown Orlando for NBA playoffs
Read full article: ‘A lot of excitement:’ Magic fans rally in downtown Orlando for NBA playoffsBasketball fans from all over Central Florida packed Wall Street Plaza in downtown Orlando, cheering their teams on as the NBA Playoffs kick off this weekend, including the Orlando Magic.
3 injured in 3-vehicle crash on Florida Turnpike in Orange County
Read full article: 3 injured in 3-vehicle crash on Florida Turnpike in Orange CountyThree people were injured in a three-vehicle crash on the Florida Turnpike in Orange County on Sunday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Man with gun shot, killed by Orlando officers after fight breaks out in downtown, police say
Read full article: Man with gun shot, killed by Orlando officers after fight breaks out in downtown, police sayA man was shot and killed by officers after a fight broke out in downtown Orlando, according to the police department.
‘Life is life:’ Vigil held in Orlando for man shot, killed in Magic Mall parking lot
Read full article: ‘Life is life:’ Vigil held in Orlando for man shot, killed in Magic Mall parking lotDozens of family members gathered at the Magic Mall parking lot in Orlando to remember the man shot and killed there on April 6.
‘A sneaky workout:’ Activate Orlando opens as Florida’s first active gaming nenue
Read full article: ‘A sneaky workout:’ Activate Orlando opens as Florida’s first active gaming nenueOrlando’s entertainment scene is leveling up this weekend with the grand opening of Activate Orlando, Florida’s first active gaming facility.
Orlando Fire hosts inclusive Easter egg scavenger hunt for kids
Read full article: Orlando Fire hosts inclusive Easter egg scavenger hunt for kidsThe Orlando Fire Department and Lighthouse Central Florida hosted an inclusive Easter egg scavenger hunt on the front lawn of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
UCF President doubles down on DOGE, says school doing ‘more with less’
Read full article: UCF President doubles down on DOGE, says school doing ‘more with less’Amidst pushback from some students, University of Central Florida has reaffirmed its commitment to a state version of the Trump’s administration Department of Government Efficiency.
UCF increases security, mental health help on campus after FSU mass shooting
Read full article: UCF increases security, mental health help on campus after FSU mass shootingUCF’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) also offers crisis support and mental health services through appointments, walk-ins, and a 24/7 crisis hotline at 407-823-2811.
Orlando shines at Florida’s Michelin Guide Ceremony, makes history
Read full article: Orlando shines at Florida’s Michelin Guide Ceremony, makes historyFor the first time, an Orlando eatery was awarded two stars. There is only one other restaurant in the state that has this distinguished recognition.
New SeaWorld Orlando Arctic adventure attraction set to open next month. Here’s when
Read full article: New SeaWorld Orlando Arctic adventure attraction set to open next month. Here’s whenA new Arctic attraction at SeaWorld Orlando will take flight next month, taking guests on an immersive experience through the icy landscapes.
Orlando’s Summer Youth Employment Program pairs students with local businesses
Read full article: Orlando’s Summer Youth Employment Program pairs students with local businessesOrlando Mayor Buddy Dyer joined commissioners at We Print, a local business that has become a creative hub for young talent through the program.
Residents take concerns to Rep. Daniel Webster event in Apopka. Here’s what they said
Read full article: Residents take concerns to Rep. Daniel Webster event in Apopka. Here’s what they saidNews 6 went to Apopka City Hall, where a representative from Congressman Daniel Webster’s office was meeting with constituents. Our camera was not allowed inside the meeting, but we did meet a handful of people outside who showed up to share their concerns.
Florida man accused of impersonating deputy while confronting Walmart driver over human trafficking suspicions
Read full article: Florida man accused of impersonating deputy while confronting Walmart driver over human trafficking suspicionsAccording to an arrest affidavit, Michael Diaz approached the truck where he claimed to be a sheriff’s deputy and presented a business card featuring the “Florida Sheriffs Association” logo.
Orange County mother, son arrested after dogs found ‘severely underweight,’ deputies say
Read full article: Orange County mother, son arrested after dogs found ‘severely underweight,’ deputies sayThe investigation began after a tip from Code Enforcement regarding the condition of the dogs at the home of Sandra and Joshua Goldberg on North Powers Drive.
This group tells Florida cities how much growth they need to account for
Read full article: This group tells Florida cities how much growth they need to account forThe Bureau of Economic Business and Research is contracted by the state to tell cities and counties how much growth they need to accommodate in the coming years.
Progress Report: Central Florida homelessness 4 months after new state law
Read full article: Progress Report: Central Florida homelessness 4 months after new state lawIn 2024, Gov. DeSantis signed a bill to force local governments to dismantle homeless camps. Here's how the law has affected the fight against homelessness, and how a group of journalists are trying to raise awareness.
‘Harmful content:’ Florida Attorney General goes after Roblox over child predators
Read full article: ‘Harmful content:’ Florida Attorney General goes after Roblox over child predatorsFlorida Attorney General James Uthmeier issued a subpoena on Wednesday, demanding information from Roblox about how it markets to children.
Orlando mayor defends Trust Act as Florida AG threatens legal action over city’s immigration policy
Read full article: Orlando mayor defends Trust Act as Florida AG threatens legal action over city’s immigration policyOrlando Mayor Buddy Dyer is pushing back after Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody warned the city could face legal action over its immigration policy.
Orange County, law enforcement agencies reach agreements on school resource officers. Here are the cities impacted
Read full article: Orange County, law enforcement agencies reach agreements on school resource officers. Here are the cities impactedFive local governments will provide officers for public schools in tentative agreements reached by Orange County Public Schools.
Florida’s controversial land development proposal resurfaces in House bill
Read full article: Florida’s controversial land development proposal resurfaces in House billSenate Bill 1118 and its companion bill in the House both received backlash, but now, a new version of House Bill 579 appears to include some of the same concepts.
Orange County’s Teacher of the Year has creative approach to boost student’s confidence in math
Read full article: Orange County’s Teacher of the Year has creative approach to boost student’s confidence in mathIn Winter Park, Cherese Fussner is making a big impact as a geometry teacher at the Winter Park 9th Grade Center.
Orlando lawmaker’s tourism tax reform now part of Florida Senate tax package
Read full article: Orlando lawmaker’s tourism tax reform now part of Florida Senate tax packageOn Monday, Sen. Carlos Guillermo-Smith D-Orlando, revealed his tourism tax reform bill is now part of the state senate tax package.
Orlando not violating immigration laws, Mayor Dyer tells Florida attorney general
Read full article: Orlando not violating immigration laws, Mayor Dyer tells Florida attorney generalOrlando Mayor Buddy Dyer insists the city is following federal and state immigration law, one day after Florida’s attorney general threatened to remove Dyer from office over a city policy.
Florida attorney general threatens to remove Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer over immigration stance
Read full article: Florida attorney general threatens to remove Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer over immigration stanceFlorida Attorney General James Uthmeier is threatening to remove Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer from office.
‘Don’t have anywhere to go:’ Orlando homeless encampment set to be cleared
Read full article: ‘Don’t have anywhere to go:’ Orlando homeless encampment set to be clearedDozens of people who live in a homeless encampment in Orlando are preparing to vacate the area on the heels of receiving a violation notice demanding they remove their tents.