BUDDY DYER

ORLANDO, Fla. — Throughout the month of February, the Orlando community is hosting a series of events to celebrate Black History Month. “Black History Month is underway,” Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer tweeted on Wednesday. Read: Orlando to consider plans for reconstructing 100-year-old church in ParramoreCity of Orlando’s Black History Month Proclamation PresentationMonday, Feb. 6, 2 p.m.Mayor Buddy Dyer and the City Commissioners will join the Black History Month (BHM) Planning Committee to officially proclaim February as Black History Month in the city of Orlando. The annual Black History Month Signature Event celebrates the remarkable contributions and positive influence of Black Americans in the Central Florida community. The Orange County Regional History Center is hosting several exhibits and special events in honor of Black History Month.

ORLANDO, Fla. — An environmental organization honored The City of Orlando for its sustainable achievements on Friday. The U.S. Green Building Council awarded Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orlando with Central Florida Leadership Awards at City Hall. The nonprofit praised the city for its sustainable buildings and leadership in social responsibility. Read: Orlando City Council approves funds to help those battling homeless after Hurricane IanDyer received the Sustainability Legend Award for the Green Works program and helped Orlando receive a LEED Gold City designation. Photos: Environmental organization honors the City of Orlando for sustainable effortsExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 7 Environmental organization honors the City of Orlando for sustainable efforts The U.S. Green Building Council awarded Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orlando with Central Florida Leadership Awards at City Hall.

Reaction is being heard across Central Florida following the release of footage showing the violent, deadly arrest of Tyre Nichols.

Orlando Hospitality Alliance submitted a proposal to the city Thursday, and it calls for a 5% surcharge on all sales at establishments in Orlando's downtown entertainment district.

ORLANDO, Fla. -- — ORLANDO, Fla. -- In just under a month, the Orlando Guardians open their XFL season in Houston. The Guardians are Orlando’s newest professional team and on Wednesday at Camping World Stadium, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer joined XFL Chairwoman Dany Garcia and head coach Terrell Buckley for a press conference to welcome this new chapter in The City Beautiful. The Guardians play their first home game on February 26 at Camping World Stadium. XFL owner and Chairwoman Dany Garcia is an Orlando resident and said they have been planning and building to bring a team to Central Florida. @XFL2023 Chairwoman @DanyGarciaCo on bringing a team to Orlando: We were planning and building to get a team here.

The new XFL football team was officially welcomed by the city of Orlando to Camping World Stadium Wednesday in a news conference featuring Mayor Buddy Dyer .

ORLANDO, Fla. — Central Florida’s new professional football team will be welcomed by city leaders Wednesday at Camping World Stadium. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer is set to hold a news conference at 10 a.m. and will be joined by XFL Chairwoman Dany Garcia and head coach, and Former Florida State star, Terrell Buckley, of the new Orlando Guardians team. Photos: XFL Orlando Guardians hold practice at Camping World StadiumExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 17 XFL Orlando Guardians hold practice at Camping World StadiumDwayne Johnson is part of the ownership group that took over the league from WWE’s Vince McMahon after the XFL filed for bankruptcy in 2020 when their season was cut short due to the coronavirus. Read: XFL announces schedule for Orlando GuardiansThe other seven teams announced are Arlington, Houston, and San Antonio, TX; Las Vegas, NV; Seattle, WA; St. Louis, MO; and Washington, D.C.See: Hooked on a feeling: XFL Orlando Guardians take a spin on the new Guardians of the Galaxy rideThe Guardians will open their debut season on Feb. 18 at Houston, and its first home game will be on Sunday, Feb. 26 against the San Antonio Brahmas. Read: Fresh squeeze on sports: New pickleball team comes to OrlandoThe Orlando Guardians will play five home games in their inaugural season.

The majority of the bar owners and workers present for public comment were squarely against the proposed measures

ORLANDO, Fla. — People in Central Florida are remembering more than one civil rights leader on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Hundreds of people gathered in Orlando Monday to honor Arthur “Pappy” Kennedy, Orlando’s first Black city council member. PHOTOS: City of Ocoee’s 15th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Parade & CelebrationExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 15 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Parade and Celebration The City of Ocoee’s 15th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Orange County Public Library System will have a new way to bring books and materials to the community. Read: Orange County Public Library System celebrates 100 yearsIn 1979, the library system canceled the bookmobile service because of home delivery. At the kickoff event, OCLS held a ribbon cutting and rededication ceremony at the Albertson Public Library. Photos: Orange County Public Library System celebrates 100 years with ribbon cutting eventExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 41 Orange County Public Library System 100-year celebration The Orange County Public Library System is honoring 100 years of service to the community with various activities and memorabilia throughout 2023. (Orange County Public Library System/Orange County Public Library System)In addition to the new services, the library will have branded merchandise and a new card design, and will introduce a virtual reality game escape room to honor the centennial.

A new Brightline station at Orlando International Airport is set to open this year, and the rail system is giving a first look at what travelers can expect.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and city commissioners will proclaim this week as “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Week.”It comes before the actual holiday honoring Dr. King’s legacy next Monday. Photos: Orlando leaders honor legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with holiday week proclamationExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 4 Orlando leaders honor legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with holiday week proclamationThe city kicked off a week of events Sunday night with a candlelight vigil and march at Orlando City Hall. Read: Orange County to open disaster assistance site at Camping World StadiumOrlando will host its 38th annual MLK Parade in downtown Orlando at 10 a.m. Saturday. Read: SpaceX pushes OneWeb Launch 16 mission to MondayMore information about MLK events this week can be found here.

Missed your flight? Use that time to groove on Buddy’s dulcet tones

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer released a statement after antisemitic messages showed up on the side of a building in downtown Orlando.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando will honor Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy with a series of local events next year. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and the Mayor’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission announced the events for the first quarter of 2023. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Week” in the City of Orlando. Read: Report exposes gender pay gap in U.S. workforce, disparity greatest for women of colorThursday, Jan. 12, 7 p.m.19th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Saturday, Jan. 14, 10 a.m.39th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Orlando police said new surveillance video could be the key to finding the person who shot nine people downtown in July.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said during his State of Downtown Address that the metaverse will help Orlando grow over the next three decades. Dyer talked a lot about infrastructure and how the metaverse can help Orlando realize its projects. A lot of people in the crowd met Dyer with blank stares, but he connected the dots quickly on how the metaverse could help the city with infrastructure by laying out those plans first in the virtual world, then expanding. Dyer also said he hopes to see a high-speed transit system in Orlando someday. So, how does the metaverse tie into future plans for Orlando?

The ordinance aims to clarify the difference between a restaurant, bar and nightclub

Orlando city Commissioners unanimously approved new zoning codes Monday that clarifies the definitions citywide between a Restuarant, a bar and a nightclub.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — City Council will be voting for a new ordinance that will change the meaning of bars, restaurants and nightclubs in Downtown Orlando. The ordinance creates new and separate definitions for the three types of establishments in the city code. Mayor Buddy Dyer said he wanted to change how bars, restaurants and nightclubs are treated ultimately to avoid conflicts. Read: 3 confirmed dead after massive fire breaks out at Orange County fireworks warehouse“We want a big comprehensive approach,” he said. “We want to have multiple uses, not just bar uses but that is a bigger-picture plan.”The council will be voting on the proposed law Monday afternoon.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Fire Department has broken ground on a new fire station. It is calling the station “The Beast of the East.”Photos: Orlando Fire Department breaks ground on new ‘Beast of the East’ fire stationExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 Orlando Fire Department breaks ground on new ‘Beast of the East’ fire stationThe 15,000-square-foot site on Curry Ford Road near Gaston Foster Road will house 30 firefighters and four trucks. Read: ‘No room for error’: Team of 11 Orlando Health doctors perform back-to-back surgeries on mom, babyIt replaces the original Fire Station 11 in Dover Shores and was strategically designed to help cut down on response times. Watch: Longwood firefighters reunited with boy years after saving his life“Having the stations located in the neighborhoods and not a distance away is very important to lifesaving technology,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. Watch: ‘An enormous effort:’: Daytona Beach Shores residents seek permanent fix to damaged seawallDyer said the city has built at least 10 new fire stations since he first took office.

The Orlando LGBTQ+ community and local leaders reacted on Sunday to the shooting inside of a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs that killed five people and 25 injured.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The onePulse Foundation held a gathering at the Pulse Interim Memorial to stand with the family and friends of shooting victims in Colorado. Authorities are investigating the attack in Colorado Springs, where five people were killed and 25 were injured during an overnight mass shooting at an LGBTQ+ nightclub. Dozens of advocates came together Sunday evening to honor the victims, an event reminiscent of what happened in Orlando. I also know this is heartbreaking news for members of Orlando’s LGBTQ+ community and so many others here. Read: 5 killed, 25 hurt in shooting at LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado SpringsPulse survivors said the Colorado shooting is like reliving a nightmare, and people who attended the vigil are sending strength to everyone there.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The community came together Saturday to honor those who served in the armed forces. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and the Veterans Advisory Council hosted the 23rd City of Orlando Veterans Day Parade in downtown Orlando. This year’s theme celebrates the 80th anniversary of the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps and Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service. Photos: Orlando honors armed forces with annual Veterans Day paradeExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 15 Orlando honors armed forces with annual Veterans Day parade Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and the Veterans Advisory Council hosted the 23rd City of Orlando Veterans Day Parade in downtown Orlando. (WFTV/WFTV)The city had a post-parade celebration this year at the Lake Eola Amphitheater for the first time with games and activities.

It was a celebration in downtown Orlando Saturday morning, all for a great cause.

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings on Wednesday held a news conference to discuss the county’s preparations and storm readiness, now faced with Tropical Storm Nicole.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer will work with city contractors to close a 1.6-mile gap to pave the way for the Downtown Loop project. The gap is located along East Anderson Street, from Summerlin Avenue to Lake Underhill Road. Watch: Orange County to give away 9,000 traps to help zap growing mosquito numbersThe project will provide residents with an easy route to a dozen Orlando neighborhoods. The area connected will include the Orlando Urban Trail, Gertrude’s Walk, Lake Underhill Path, Bumby Path and Cady Way Trail. The full project is expected to be complete by the summer of 2025.

WINTER PARK, Fla. — A taste of Paris is coming to Winter Park. Paris Baguette, a bakery café known for its irresistible baked and brewed treats, will open its first Florida location on Oct. 26. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 14 Grand opening: Paris Baguette set to open in Winter ParkMayor Buddy Dyer and other city officials will be on hand for the café's first day of business in the Sunshine State. The café brings over 25 career opportunities to the local job market. Read: Mermaids return to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium this monthThe café's ribbon cutting ceremony is at 8:45 a.m. and doors open at 9 a.m.

Orlando Fringe will open its incubator artspace in the former home of troubled company Mad Cow Theatre this January. The space at 54 W. Church...

ORLANDO, Fla. — The City of Orlando ended its request Tuesday for residents to limit their water usage. Progress on emergency repairs to the sanitary system continues to be made by our Public Works staff. Although we are no longer asking the community to limit water use, please be mindful of your water consumption to prevent treatment plants from being overwhelmed. Thank you, Orlando,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer on social media. CloudOfficials said although the city is no longer asking the community to limit water use, residents should be mindful of water consumption to prevent treatment plants from being overwhelmed.

After suffering a major water main break over the weekend, the city of Orlando lifted its water usage advisory to residents and businesses.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The city of Orlando held an annual ceremony Friday that honored members of the U.S. military who are still missing in action. Mayor Buddy Dyer and other city officials met at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Prisoner of War MIA Recognition ceremony. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 Video: Orlando leaders honor missing prisoners of war in ceremony (WFTV/WFTV)City officials said this ceremony reinforces their commitment to bringing POWs back home. Read: Police: Woman charged with DUI after crashing into 3 officers, vehicle in downtown OrlandoThis ceremony also honored the sacrifices of those in the armed forces. Read: Police arrest man accused of attacking woman in downtown Orlando apartmentClick here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

The Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando have announced the grand opening of a new cat shelter in downtown Orlando at the end of this month....

Orlando city commissioners are pushing the brakes for now on approving an ordinance aimed at reducing crime downtown.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orlando’s new police Chief Eric Smith joined city commissioners Thursday to launch “Orlando connect.”Watch: ‘A heinous crime’: 16-year-old boy accused of stabbing grandmother to death in RockledgeThe program is the city’s latest effort to collaborate with businesses and residents to help keep Orlando safe. The new program is a network of cameras that would help police solve crimes. However, for the cameras to be effective, they need residents, day care owners, convenience stores and apartment complexes to take part. City leaders said the Orlando Connect program could be the future of crime fighting. Watch: Orlando police search for gunman after person shot during carjacking in Baldwin ParkLaw enforcement said they want residents and businesses to volunteer to join the program.

Smarten up, y'all. Jesus.

The festival, which runs from Thursday, Sept. 1, to Monday, Sept. 5, features different content creators putting on their films at CMX Cinemas Plaza Café 12.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The world-famous Art’s Sandwich Shop in Orlando is turning 50 this year. Read: Time to shell-abrate: Sea Life Orlando’s Ted the turtle turns 22Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and City Commissioner Bakari Burns were at the shop this week to help celebrate. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 13 Art’s Sandwich Shop celebrates 50 years in OrlandoBurns named Art’s Sandwich Shop as the district’s business of the month and presented the owner, Sybyal Adkins, with a proclamation. Watch: NASA releases ghostly sound recorded from black hole“We appreciate all our customers and being in Orlando. The entire Adkins family has contributed to the restaurant and have had celebrities like Jack Black visit regularly.

It comes more than two weeks after police say seven people were hurt in downtown Orlando after a fight led to gunfire near Wall Street and Orange Avenue.

ORLANDO, Fla. — As people head to downtown Orlando nightclubs this weekend, there will be some noticeable changes. WATCH: Gunman at large after 7 hurt in downtown Orlando shooting“We’re going to do everything we possibly can to make sure downtown is safe,” Dyer said. Downtown Orlando security checkpoints begin this weekend (WFTV)READ: Video captures gunfire that left 7 hurt in downtown Orlando, police still seeking tipsOrlando resident Rashim Williams said he welcomes the changes and incidents like the one last week are bad for business. READ: Weekend security checkpoints planned for downtown Orlando following mass shootingThe city said metal detectors will be added but it is having trouble finding a vendor available this weekend, so it could take six to eight weeks before they could be in place. Weekend security checkpoints planned for Downtown Orlando following mass shooting (Q McCray, WFTV.com/WFTV)Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

Amid a demand for increased safety protocols in downtown Orlando after seven were shot and injured last weekend, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said a state law is preventing him from making the area a gun-free zone.

In yet another example of how the land of the free is one the least free places on the planet, downtown Orlando will be surrounded...

Weekend security checkpoints planned for Downtown Orlando following mass shooting (Q McCray, WFTV.com/WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — Mayor Buddy Dyer announced on Monday that the city will make security changes starting this weekend. The news came as dust continued to settle from a shooting in the heart of downtown early Sunday. The city’s plan is to add six checkpoints around Orlando’s nightlife epicenter along South Orange Avenue. READ: From glitz and glam to checkpoints: downtown Orlando’s safety plan represents hard fall“We’re going to do everything we possibly can to make sure downtown is safe,” said Dyer. VIDEO: City of Orlando: New security checkpoints coming to downtown after weekend shooting VIDEO: City of Orlando: New security checkpoints coming to downtown after weekend shooting (Chantelle Navarro, WFTV.com/WFTV)The video shows that after the shots rang out, dozens of people ran down South Orange Avenue in fear.

VIDEO: From glitz and glam to checkpoints: downtown Orlando’s safety plan represents hard fall From glitz and glam to checkpoints: downtown Orlando’s safety plan represents hard fallORLANDO, Fla. — Whether it’s a sign of the times in general or specific to Orlando, the latest shooting and safety measures taken in its wake represent a full circle moment for the downtown Orlando nightlife district – and not in a good way. People who were young adults back then recall the thousands that would pack the streets and bars every night of the week. READ: City of Orlando: New security checkpoints coming to downtown after weekend shooting“I would describe it as it was a blast,” Bob Rexroad, a former nightclub manager, recalled. That culminated with a shooting outside a bar Sunday morning that left seven people injured and an unknown gunman at large. Most people agreed with Dyer’s move when asked Monday afternoon, though a few called the measure unnecessary and extreme.

The city of Orlando is expanding controlled entry points into the downtown area on the weekends following a shooting that injured seven people early Sunday.

Orlando is a dangerous city to be a pedestrian, but at least one part of town is working on being a little safer. Orlando Mayor...

The city of Orlando swore in its latest fire chief Tuesday, formally filling the position left open by the abrupt and sordid departure of his predecessor.

The “Respect for Marriage Act,” a bill aimed at federally codifying same-sex marriages, passed the House of Representatives Tuesday in a vote of 267-157.

For the first time since the chaos at Lake Eola on July 4 during Fireworks at the Fountain, News 6 spoke with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer regarding what happened.

A University of Central Florida student has become Florida’s first winner of the Miss India Worldwide beauty pageant.

Orlando Commissioners Regina Hill and Patty Sheehan applauded the quick response of law enforcement as no serious injuries were reported from the resulting mass exodus of people.

Shawn Welcome works to inspire and uplift others through his words

Orlando residents struggling to pay rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic have until Friday to apply for the city’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

Here's the best way to watch the fireworks in Orlando.

On Saturday, you can check out the inaugural Juneteenth Celebration in Orlando. READ: Juneteenth: What to know about the holiday that celebrates slavery’s endThe event will feature live music, a kids zone, vendor village and food trucks. You can also check out a Juneteenth celebration in Hannibal Square this weekend. If you’re in Daytona Beach on Saturday, you can check out a Juneteenth community celebration festival. READ: Happening Saturday: ‘Experience Osceola’ festival to feature live music, foodTo learn more about the event, click here.

Orlando denied in bid to host 2026 World CupOrlando was left out of the list 16 to host the FIFA World cup in 2026. AdvertisementThe U.S. cities selected in an official announcement made Thursday afternoon are as follows:Miami, New York, Toronto, Philadelphia, Boston, Kansas City, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston, Monterrey, Mexico City, Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Guadalajara. The cities that join the city beautiful in being left off the list are as follows:Cincinnati, Denver, Nashville, Pasadena, California, Washington, D.C. and Edmonton. After soccer fans gathered at Camping world stadium to hear the official announcement by FIFA that Orlando would be passed over, Mayor Buddy Dyer said he was proud of the community’s commitment and effort to have the World Games come to Central Florida.

Here's the best way to watch the fireworks in Orlando.

The Orlando mayor’s ex-wife died after a battle with an aggressive brain tumor, the mayor said Thursday.

Karen Dyer, the trial lawyer and ex-wife of long-serving Orlando mayor Buddy Dyer, has passed away following a battle with brain cancer. Dyer announced her...

Sunday at noon, amid days of events in observance of the mass shooting at Pulse nightclub on June 12, 2016, each of the 49 victims killed in the attack were recognized with the somber tolling of a bell at the First United Methodist Church of Orlando.

The Biden administration announced that, as of midnight on June 12th, international travelers coming to the United States will no longer need a negative COVID-19 test to get into the country.

Exhibits are popping up in the City Beautiful to memorialize the survivors and 49 victims of the Pulse Nightclub mass shooting in 2016.

Pulse Remembrance: City of Orlando holds a solemn gathering outside city hall Pulse Remembrance: City of Orlando holds a solemn gathering outside city hallORLANDO, Fla — City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, District 4 City Commissioner Patty Sheehan and LGBTQ+ leaders held a solemn gathering outside Orlando City Hall to mark the six-year remembrance of the Pulse nightclub shooting. 4 Commissioner Patty Sheehan said, “we have to remember that these families who were impacted. The prayer ribbons were on display outside city hall, featuring the names of the 49 victims written in gold on black ribbons and messages of hope. Following the speeches, those in attendance held a moment of silence, followed by church bells to honor the 49 lives lost. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 7 Pulse Remembrance: City of Orlando holds a solemn gathering outside city hall Pulse Remembrance: City of Orlando holds a solemn gathering outside city hall©2022 Cox Media Group

Advocates say the AHCA report ‘draws on junk science and cites discredited so-called experts.’

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings proclaimed May 24 Vanessa Echols Day in the county. Demings presented the proclamation to Echols during the Board of County Commissioners meeting Tuesday morning. Read: ‘We’ve set a standard’: Vanessa Echols calls on the next generation to ‘rise to the occasion’Echols delivered remarks upon receiving the proclamation. And so I think this proclamation just lets me know that you think that I tried to do a good job at that.”Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 7 Vanessa Echols Day Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings proclaimed May 24 Vanessa Echols Day in the county. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer surprises Vanessa Echols with city proclamation ahead of her retirement Friday, May, 27, will be Vanessa Echols Day in the city of Orlando.

The City of Orlando approved a long-rumored deal to allow Orlando Fringe to operate in the soon-to-be former home of Mad Cow Theatre. After years...

Read their messages below:Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings“We, Orange County residents, are heartbroken for the residents of Buffalo and Laguna Woods and share in their pain. https://t.co/e40DjS4TDC — Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings (@OCFLMayor) May 16, 2022READ: Buffalo supermarket mass shooting: Victims list released by Buffalo PDChief Orlando RolónPraying for the people of #Buffalo and to the agencies who responded to this horrific attack. Eleven of the 13 shooting victims were Black and the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime. #WeWillNotLetHateWin #OutloveHate”Sending our love and support to Buffalo, NY where a mass shooting at a supermarket killed 10 people and injured three. Eleven of the 13 shooting victims were Black and the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime.

Scores of law enforcement officers from across the country have made the trip to Washington D.C. for observances of National Police Week.

Orlando new fire chief City Mayor Buddy Dyer tweeted Thursday that he has appointed Charlie Salazar to the position. (wftv.com)ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Fire Department’s next chief has been named. https://t.co/cCskkYBHUk — Orlando Fire Dept (@OrlandoFireDept) May 12, 2022Salazar brings three decades of experience, including serving as the executive deputy chief for Dallas Fire-Rescue, Dyer tweeted. Orlando’s previous fire chief, Benjamin Barksdale, resigned in October. READ: Orlando fire chief resigns 2 months after suspension due to arrestVideo: Orlando fire chief resigns 2 months after suspension due to arrest Orlando Fire Chief Benjamin Barksdale resigned from his job leading the Orlando Fire Department on Friday.

Deputy Chief Eric Smith Deputy Chief Eric Smith will take over as the 40th chief of the department. The announcement comes less than a week after Chief Orlando Rolón said he would retire Nov. 1, with his last day of work being Aug. 19. Dyer said Deputy Chief Eric Smith will take over as the 40th chief of the department. READ: Orlando Police Chief Orlando Rolón announces retirement“It’s a honor to be able to lead the men and women of OPD,” Smith said following the announcement. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer announced Deputy Chief Eric Smith as next police chief of the Orlando Police Department.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer announced Deputy Chief Eric Smith is set to take over the leadership of the city’s police department following the announcement of Chief Orlando Rolón’s retirement after serving three years in the position.

Video: SunRail sees 40% rider increase since 2021 as funding concerns loom Will SunRail expand? WATCH: Volusia County seeks more involvement in decision about SunRail/Brightline’s Orlando corridorSunRail officials reported a 40% increase in riders from 2021. Photos: SunRail sees 40% rider increase since 2021 as funding concerns loomExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 9 SunRail sees 40% rider increase since 2021 as funding concerns loomDuring the meeting, leaders from Seminole and Osceola counties expressed their concerns with funding. “I can’t predict what the funding models might be, but I would envision that they’d be very different than the existing models might be. But we’re just at the first couple steps.”WATCH: County leaders look to the future of SunRail fundingThe next meeting for SunRail is scheduled for Aug. 4.

VIDEO: City of Orlando honors neighborhood watch groups with street signs VIDEO: City of Orlando honors neighborhood watch groups with street signs (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — Neighborhood watch groups across the country serve as eyes and ears for their neighbors and help local police departments spot suspicious activity. On Monday, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Police Chief Orlando Rolón and city commissioners Regina Hill and Tony Ortiz unveiled the Neighborhood Watch of the Year signs for 2020 and 2021. The 2020 Honoree, the Rock Lake Neighborhood Watch Group has been actively promoting crime prevention and neighborhood watch for more than 20 years. The Rock Lake Neighborhood Watch Group’s priority is to keep their neighborhood welcoming, extending their reach into the neighboring community of Lake Lorna Doone. Read: New land speed record set by autonomous Indy race car at Kennedy Space CenterCity of Orlando residents can start a neighborhood watch group for their street, block, neighborhood, apartment complex or condominium community by contacting the Orlando Police Department at orlando.gov/police.

After 30 years with the Orlando Police Department, Chief Orlando Rolón announced he will retire this fall. In a letter sent to Orlando Mayor Buddy...

Orlando Chief of Police Orlando Rolón submitted his resignation letter to the mayor’s office Wednesday after approximately four years in the position.

Orlando’s signature Lake Eola Park will expand after a building is demolished.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The city of Orlando celebrated the grand opening of a new neighborhood center in Holden Heights on Wednesday. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and City Commissioner Bakari Burns participated in the official ribbon-cutting. The historic former Grand Avenue Elementary has been repurposed as a youth and family recreation center, complete with a gym and a pottery studio. For instance, the Orlando Science Center is going to do a STEM program here with the support of NASA ... how cool is that?,” Dyer said. Photos: See inside Orlando’s new neighborhood center in Holden HeightsThe city is hosting a community open house on Saturday, featuring tours of the new facility as well as youth activities.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer was joined by Deputy U.S. Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo Tuesday to provide an update on a local job training program for workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dyer led a roundtable at Valencia College’s downtown campus where he shared the encouraging progress of the city’s “RISE” Employment and Training Program. “If you talk to any employer out there, including us, we all lack employees,” Mayor Dyer said. Through a partnership with CareerSource Florida, more than 100 of the initiative’s approved training programs cover a range of “high-growth” industries, from healthcare to construction. “This is part of responsible growth.”Eligible residents in the training program can receive up to $125 per week to cover costs like transportation, housing, and childcare.

ORLANDO, Fla. — In celebration of Earth Day, Lime launched a new fleet of e-scooters that it said provides a smoother, safer, and more sustainable ride. Lime debuted the Gen4 E-Scooters at the Earth Day Work Day event in Orlando on Friday. “Lime is thrilled to bring the best e-scooters around to Orlando, celebrating Earth Day by making our operations here more sustainable. These new e-scooters will offer a smoother and more sustainable rider experience and they’ll decrease street clutter and promote safety, " said Jad Hayek, Lime operations manager. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 8 Lime - GEN4 - E-ScootersAccording to a release from Lime, the new GEN4 scooter will provide riders with the smoothest and most environmentally friendly shared scooter ride available.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The City of Orlando celebrated Earth Day outside of City Hall on Friday. And to celebrate and to make sure that everyone is doing their part.”Photos: Orlando celebrates ‘Earth Day Work Day’ projects at City HallExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 15 Orlando celebrates ‘Earth Day Work Day’ projects at City HallOrlando’s “Earth Day Work Day” is a sustainability fair that features games, giveaways, vendors, and music. READ: 9 things to do this weekend: Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival, Melbourne Art Festival and moreEarth Day Work Day is sponsored by the Downtown Development Board, Piedmont Office Realty Trust and Impress Ink. @citybeautiful's Earth Day Work Day helped showcase how we all can contribute to creating a greener future for Orlando. READ: Earth Day 2022: What you need to know and how to helpMore information on Earth Day Work Day can be found here.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Muslims all across the world are currently fasting for the holy month of Ramadan. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and other city commissioners joined the community for the fifth annual Iftar dinner this week. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 8 Orlando leaders share Ramadan meal with Muslim communityThe event was held at the Orlando Museum of Art. WATCH: 6 new pickleball courts open in Orlando“The City of Orlando has been at the forefront of creating an inclusive community that respects and welcomes people from all walks of life,” Dyer said. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando’s first public pickleball courts opened on Wednesday morning. The city held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of the courts at the Dover Shores Neighborhood Center. Photos: 6 new pickleball courts open in OrlandoThe park features six new pickleball courts. This city wants to help get them hiredThe city said it built the court to meet residents demands. Orlando leaders said the courts are part of the city’s efforts to provide quality amenities at city parks for all ages to enjoy.

The city said Women’s History Month is observed throughout the country during March as a way to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of women in American history.

Fallen Orlando police Officer Kevin Valencia received a new honor Tuesday.

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings provided a COVID-19 update Wednesday from the Orange County administration building in downtown Orlando.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and the Orlando City Council proclaimed February as Black History Month in the City of Orlando on Tuesday.

More than a dozen self-proclaimed Nazis yelled antisemitic slogans outside a Central Florida shopping plaza and waved a swastika flag from a highway overpass before authorities broke them up.

Deputies said about 20 demonstrators gathered on public property yelling profanities and anti-Semitic slurs at passing vehicles, with a fight breaking out between someone and several demonstrators.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer announced he and his wife tested positive for COVID-19.

While Monday was a day off for students and some parents, it was a day on for dozens who volunteered at Lake Fran to pick up trash and give back to the community.

Camping World Stadium is once again serving as a COVID-19 drive-thru testing site, according to city officials.

Several events will take place near downtown Orlando this week, including two bowl games and New Year's Eve parties.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer has declared Dec. 13 Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida day in the city of Orlando, the charity’s officials said in a news release.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer is giving a State of Downtown address Monday afternoon at Exploria Stadium in the city's Parramore neighborhood.

The Orlando mayor will provide an update during the 2021 State of Downtown Address Monday afternoon.

On Monday, the Orlando City Commission voted to approve part of the budget for the Maxey Crooms house on West Anderson Street in Parramore.

With tourism continuing to bounce back in Central Florida, local leaders remain hopeful for a full economic recovery.

The big Christmas tree made its return to Lake Eola in downtown Orlando.

Orange County and the city of Orlando honored Walt Disney World for its efforts in the Central Florida community on Friday.

The 2021 Florida Energy and Climate Summit kicked off Tuesday in Orlando.