Diverging diamonds: FDOT looks to improve rush hour traffic on I-4 in Seminole County
Video: FDOT looks to improve rush hour traffic on I-4 in Seminole County Anyone who drives I-4 during rush hour knows there’s always a backup around the Lake Mary and Sanford exits. (WFTV)SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — The I-4 Ultimate project might be finished, but the Florida Department of Transportation still has a lot of work in store for the interstate. Part of FDOT’s plans is to improve the driving experience through Seminole County. Anyone who drives I-4 during rush hour knows there’s always a backup around the Lake Mary and Sanford exits. The other plan in Lake Mary is to add a new exit ramp at Lake Emma Road by Topgolf.
wftv.comNeighbors worry bird flu to blame for dozens of ducks found dead in Sanford-area lakes
VIDEO: Neighbors worry bird flu to blame for dozens of ducks found dead in Sanford-area lakes Neighbors worry bird flu to blame for dozens of ducks found dead in Sanford-area lakesSANFORD, Fla. — Neighbors in Seminole County are concerned after seeing dozens of dead ducks surround multiple popular lakes. It’s happening in the Sanford area at Lake Dot, Lake Minnie and a nearby retention pond on an unnamed lake on 17-92. Neighbors said they’re worried it could be bird flu killing the ducks. READ: Baby boom: Louisville Zoo announces birth of Hartmann’s mountain zebraSee the full story in the video above. Avian flu: What you need to know about bird flu (NCD)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.
wftv.comDeSantis promises legislation to prevent Disney debt from falling to taxpayers
Gov. Ron DeSantis reiterated his promise that Florida's taxpayers will not take on Walt Disney World's debt when and if the Reedy Creek Improvement District dissolves in 2023, teasing that he may have some legislative measures in place to prevent that from happening.
Happening this morning: Gov. DeSantis to make announcement in Sanford
SANFORD, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis will be in Central Florida to make an announcement. The governor will be joined by Dr. Joseph Ladapo, Florida’s surgeon general, and Wilton Simpson, president of the Florida Senate. READ: Florida gas prices remain at record highsDeSantis’ office did not provide details about the announcement. READ: Lunar eclipse 2022: 10 stunning photos of May’s ‘super flower blood moon’Check back and watch Eyewitness News for the latest developments.
wftv.comCome work at the zoo: Central Florida Zoo to host job fair
SANFORD, Fla. — Have you ever wanted to work for a zoo? The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is hosting a job fair on Wednesday, May 18. The fair will run from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. outside of the Wayne M. Densch Discovery Center, located at 3755 W. Seminole Blvd. READ: Brevard Zoo hatches critically endangered baby chicks to help boost wild populationFor questions or to schedule an interview time, email HR@centralfloridazoo.org. READ: Free Florida reading program celebrates 100K enrolled studentsClick 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.
wftv.comSeminole County woman claims $1M prize from scratch-off game
Seminole County woman claims $1M prize from scratch-off gameSANFORD, Fla. — A Seminole County woman is $1 million richer after she claimed the prize from a scratch-off game. The Florida Lottery said that Linda Williams, 60, of Sanford, claimed the prize from the 500X THE CASH Scratch-Off game. Williams bought the winning ticket at a Circle K on South French Avenue in Sanford. READ: 2 Central Florida men win $1 million prize playing new Florida Lottery scratch-off gameThe gas station will get a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning ticket. The Florida Lottery said that the $50 game features a top prize of $25 million — the largest ever offered on a Florida scratch-off game —and the best odds to become an instant millionaire.
wftv.comFlorida students win yearbook flap over 'Don't Say Gay' bill
After an outcry from students and parents over yearbook censorship, a Florida school board overruled their superintendent's plan to cover up a page showing students waving rainbow flags and a “love is love” sign during a walkout against the state's so-called “Don't Say Gay" law. The superintendent told the board that the page violated their policy by seeming to endorse a student walkout. Stickers to cover the entire page had already arrived and would be added before yearbooks are handed out this week, she said.
news.yahoo.comSeminole County museum honoring historic Black community expanding to new location
VIDEO: Seminole County museum honoring historic Black community expanding to new location Seminole County museum honoring historic Black community expanding to new locationSANFORD, Fla. — The Goldsboro Museum is getting ready for an upgrade thanks to money in the federal rescue package. The museum will be built to resemble the old post office that once sat on its current spot, the current home of the Goldsboro Museum. READ: New $23M marketing campaign to highlight Orlando’s economic strengthsIn 1891, Goldsboro became the second all-black incorporated township within the U.S., behind Eatonville. Thanks to money from the American Rescue Plan, the museum received a $500,000 African American Culture Historical Grant from the state. The new 3,000 square-foot museum will resemble the old post office.
wftv.comCan you ID him? Sanford police seeking man accused of breaking into home, battering resident
Sanford sketch Sanford police are asking for the community’s help to identify a man who is accused of breaking into a home and battering a resident inside. (Sanford Police Department)SANFORD, Fla. — Sanford police are asking for the community’s help to identify a man who is accused of breaking into a home and battering a resident inside. Police said the man broke into a home on the 800 block of Elm Avenue last Friday around 3:15 a.m. and battered a resident inside, before running away from the home. Police said he was last seen wearing a plain gray-colored T-shirt, blue jeans, and sneakers of an unknown color. Anyone with information on this incident or the identity of this individual is asked to contact the Sanford Police Department or Crimeline.
wftv.comRecord heat possible in Central Florida
Record heat possible in Central FloridaORLANDO, Fla. — Record heat is possible for Friday. READ: Leesburg band director, counselor accused of operating ‘cult-like’ secret society within schoolMake sure you wear sunscreen if you go outside. It will be very warm, with temperatures near 89 degrees. READ: Dead shark found hanging at Florida high schoolOn Mother’s Day, we’ll have lots of sun and more hot temperatures. Next week, highs will be mainly in the 80s.
wftv.comDeputies: Man shoots, kills roommate after fight at Seminole County home
Video: 1 dead after fight between roommatesSEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — A man died following a shooting at a home near Sanford Wednesday night. Deputies responded to the house on Sanford Avenue near Fern Drive around 10 p.m. and found a man who had been shot. A man told deputies that he had been fighting with his roommate throughout the day. A fight between two roommates left one of them dead, according to the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. Deadly shooting in Seminole County (WFTV.com News Staff)The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office did not release the names of either roommate.
wftv.comBody of missing 21-year-old Sanford man found in burning shed, deputies say
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — The body of a missing 21-year-old man was found late last month inside a burning shed in Sanford, according to the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to the 1700 block of Roseberry Lane around 9:50 a.m. on April 21 for reports of a fire. As Seminole County Fire Rescue extinguished the flames in the shed, officials noticed a dead person inside, according to the homicide report. The body in the shed was eventually identified as McIntyre’s. READ: Mims mourning loss of mother, son killed in weekend house fireThe homicide investigation remains active and open.
wftv.com9 things to do this weekend: St. Johns River Festival of the Arts, Crab & Seafood Festival and more
Here are nine events happening in Central Florida this weekend. The St. Johns River Festival of the Arts is returning to historic downtown Sanford this weekend. READ: In fashion: Dapper Day outings return to Disney World this weekendIf you’re a fan of seafood, make sure you check out the Crab & Seafood Festival this weekend in Daytona Beach. Fine artists and crafters from the region will feature their work along the Halifax River in Rockefeller Gardens this weekend. This FREE community event celebrates National Minority Health Month & will have something for everyone: giveaways, health screenings, music & more!
wftv.comE. coli detected in Sanford water well
SANFORD, Fla. — Sanford’s water system detected E. coli in one of its wells this week, but officials say there’s no need for residents to boil their water or take other corrective actions. City officials said its Oregon #4 well detected the fecal indicator E. coli on Tuesday. The fecal indicators are microbes whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal waste. Officials said treated water in the city’s distribution system tested negative for the bacteria. READ: Man shot, killed by deputies in Target parking lot“You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions.
wftv.comPolice: Woman seen slapping infant on Instagram post charged with child abuse
SANFORD, Fla. — A Sanford woman was arrested Tuesday after police say they received tips from the public about an Instagram post showing her abusing a small child. Police responded to 23-year-old Tya Posley’s home on Windridge Circle Tuesday morning to investigate a report of possible child abuse, but found nothing wrong. READ: No jail time for Georgia mother arrested in death of 8-pound 5-year-oldMinutes later, the same officer received an email with the Instagram video attached. According to her arrest report, the video shows Posley yelling and pointing at the one-year-old child before slapping it on what appeared to be the face and back. #Mediarelease Sanford Police Arrest Suspect for Child Abuse After Disturbing Social Media Video Surfaces Media Release... Posted by Sanford Police Department on Tuesday, April 26, 2022Police returned to Posley’s home and arrested her for child abuse without causing great bodily harm.
wftv.comSanford non-profit organization using horses to help treat veterans with PTSD
SANFORD, Fla. — A local non-profit organization is taking a unique approach to helping veterans heal the mental wounds suffered in war. READ: “An incredible gift”: Local non-profit fighting homelessness gets $30K donation from Orlando Magic“With these animals, you can really connect with them. When you look at horses grazing in the field, they most often look content and free from worry. Using horses alongside licensed mental health professionals, Crossroads works with a variety of patients, including veterans suffering from PTSD, to treat unseen injuries. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 20 Sanford non-profit organization using horses to help treat veterans with PTSD A local non-profit organization is taking a unique approach to helping veterans heal the mental wounds suffered in war.
wftv.comSanford non-profit helps local disabled man avoid fines with volunteer housework
In the last year and a half, Winn had provided much-needed help for Sanford resident Erin Schneider, so she decided she’d step in to help. It’s time for him now.”That’s when Schneider called Red Suitcase Ministries. Red Suitcase Ministries has grown to help nearly two dozen more people in the community since then. “We want to make the place look good and fix it up so that he’s comfortable,” Red Suitcase Ministries Chief Governing Officer Kenny Bevan said. “I totally appreciate what everybody is doing.”For more information about Red Suitcase Ministries, including how to contribute, click here.
wftv.comSeminole County schools to hold health and wellness fair and 5K this weekend
Seminole County schools to hold health and wellness fair and 5K this weekendSANFORD, Fla. — Seminole County Public School employees and their families will be lacing up for the fourth annual 5K “Walt Walk and Wellness Fair” on Saturday. READ: 9 things to do this weekend: Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival, Melbourne Art Festival and moreOrganizers expect around 1,800 people to take part when the event kicks off at 8 a.m. at Seminole High School. The health fair and 5K event is a partnership between Central Florida Hospitals and the Seminole County School District to promote health and wellness. Rollins College expecting bloom of 2 ‘corpse’ plants next weekNamed in honor of former Seminole County Public School District Superintendent Walt Griffin, this year’s event will focus on the theme “Strolling with Serita at the Walt Walk.”HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital, Oviedo Medical Center, HCA physicians in Seminole County and CareNow urgent care centers are sponsoring the event. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.
wftv.comPolice: One person injured in Daytona Beach shooting
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Daytona Beach police are investigating a shooting outside a home Thursday morning. Read: 2 teens shot, killed near playground at Sanford apartment complexInvestigators said at least one person was shot at 1215 South Beach Street. See map of location below:Police have not said if there were any other injuries or the condition of the person who was shot. Channel 9 has a crew heading to the scene. 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.
wftv.com2 teens shot, killed near playground at Sanford apartment complex
SANFORD, Fla. — Sanford police are looking for several people after two teenagers were shot and killed at an apartment complex in the middle of the afternoon. The shooting happened at the Overlook at Monroe Apartments, near Central Florida Regional Hospital. Photos: 2 teens shot, killed near playground at Sanford apartment complexWhen investigators arrived, they said a 16-year-old boy and another boy around the same age were lying on the ground near the playground with several gunshot wounds. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 16 Sanford shooting (WFTV.com News Staff)READ: Shooting that killed 2 including teen at Sanford apartment complex likely drug-related, police say“At some point, we have to stop wondering when we’re gonna bury our next child. Police believe no one involved in the shooting lives at the apartment complex.
wftv.comDATA: At least 8 Central Florida children hospitalized or killed by gunfire in less than 2 weeks
SANFORD, Fla. — Wednesday’s fatal shooting that left two people dead including a 16-year-old is prompting people to say enough is enough. The shooting happened in a Sanford apartment complex, and marks the third investigation by a local police department in less than two weeks where teens were targeted..At least eight Central Florida children have been hospitalized or killed in a shooting in the past 13 days. READ: Shooting that killed 2 including teen at Sanford apartment complex likely drug-related, police sayOver the weekend, two girls were hit in a drive-by shooting in Orlando. Earlier this month, in Volusia County, two teens were injured after an argument broke out in the middle of a neighborhood. Whether the cause is drugs, social media, or being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Black teenagers continue to be affected more than any other group.
wftv.comSanford police investigating reports of shooting at apartment complex
Sanford shooting investigation Sanford police are investigating reports of a shooting at an apartment complex Wednesday afternoon. (WFTV.com News Staff)SANFORD, Fla. — Sanford police are investigating reports of a shooting at an apartment complex Wednesday afternoon. Police said the shooting was reported at Overlook at Monroe Apartments before 4 p.m. Wednesday. Channel 9 has a crew on the way to the scene to gather additional details. Stay tuned to Channel 9 Eyewitness News for updates.
wftv.comSanford grapples with rising housing costs, shifting demographics
Sanford redistricting The city council took up the issue of redistricting during a work session Monday afternoon. (WFTV.com News Staff)SANFORD, Fla. — Some Sanford residents say changing demographics and increases in housing costs are affecting the city’s landscape. Like most places across the country, the city of Sanford is seeing rising housing and rental costs. READ: Sanford working on redistricting plans, Black community members push for fair representationWoodruff said Sanford hasn’t had any subsidized apartments for at least a dozen years. “And with it being 47%, you have about 1,500 people moving to the state of Florida every day.
wftv.comDeputies identify man killed at Seminole County mosque
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Seminole County deputies on Tuesday released the name of the man who was killed at a Sanford-area mosque last week. Deputies said Mahmood Al Taee, 59, of Longwood, died after he was attacked at the Husseini Islamic Center near Sanford early Friday. Investigators said Ahmed Raslan, 38, scaled a barbed-wire fence, broke a window and killed Al Taee, who worked as a maintenance man at the mosque. Deputies said the attack appeared to be random. READ: Deputies: Maintenance worker’s murder at local mosque appears to be randomStay tuned to Channel 9 Eyewitness News for updates.
wftv.comCentral Florida Employment Council to hold small-business hiring event in Seminole County
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — The Central Florida Employment Council announced it will be holding it Small Business Hiring Event on April 14. The event is being held in partnership with the Center For Business Development at Seminole State College and is open to all job seekers. Read: Stetson Math Professor and Master Chef organizes fundraising dinner for Ukraine humanitarian reliefThe event will be from 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Seminole State College Building C on Weldon Boulevard in Sanford. Read: Brightline: Orlando high-speed rail extension will be fully American-madeYou can find more information and register for the event here. 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.
wftv.comSanford working on redistricting plans, Black community members push for fair representation
SANFORD, Fla. — Sanford leaders are tackling redistricting following the 2020 U.S. Census, but some members of the African American community say the redistricting plans they have seen leave certain Black candidates at a disadvantage. The city has grown in population, and some believe there should be another district added that is primarily African American. The city council took up the issue of redistricting during a work session Monday afternoon. READ: DeSantis signs bill forbidding instruction on sexual orientation, gender identity in certain gradesIn 1983, the African American community sued to have representation on the Sanford City Council and won. He said some of those African American voters have been moved into another district and believes that could hurt their chances of winning that seat in the future.
wftv.comSanford man accused of animal cruelty after 14 malnourished dogs found living outside
SANFORD, Fla. — A Sanford man is accused of animal cruelty after police say they found 14 dogs living outside in poor conditions. The dogs’ owner, Dennis Vann, told police he is sick and can’t take care of the dogs. Officers said the 14 dogs were rescued from the backyard of a Sanford home where the animals were living in filthy pens, and some food bowls were empty. READ: Orlando man charged with animal cruelty for shooting brother’s dogVann told police “he was unaware of the injuries of the dogs.”The dogs are now in the care of Seminole County Animal Services. The shelter said all of the dogs involved are alive, but that it’s too early to say if the dogs will go up for adoption.
wftv.comWATCH: Motorcyclist seen driving ‘extremely recklessly’ nabbed by Sanford police
SANFORD, Fla. — Sanford police said they recently apprehended a dangerous motorcyclist, thanks to a citizen who went the extra mile to contact them. Police said the alert motorist emailed the department about the motorcyclist, who was driving “extremely recklessly” along Lake Mary Boulevard during the morning rush hour. WATCH VIDEO BELOW:Officers worked over the course of five days to locate the motorcyclist and took him into custody on March 4, according to police. READ: Motorcyclist dies in Volusia County crashPolice did not say if the driver faces any charges in connection with the incidents. Motorcyclist taken into custody (Sanford Police Department)Sanford confirmed no one was hurt during the course of the recent speeding incidentsOn social media, Sanford police thanked the citizen who took the time to contact them, noting their actions may have saved lives.
wftv.com‘It’s very troubling’: Sanford foster father now facing federal child porn charges
SANFORD, Fla. — A former foster father is facing new federal charges after investigators say a child living in his home found a hidden camera in her bedroom. “This happened to these kids who were put in a position where they should have been protected,” Sanford major crimes investigator David Thomas said. Police now have the gut-wrenching task of going through tens of thousands of videos and pictures to try to identify victims. The ages of the children in his care ranged from a 2-week-old infant to teenagers, according to court records. “For somebody to be able to exploit them or take advantage of them, emotionally, physically, it’s very troubling,” Thomas said.
wftv.comSuspect accused of doing U-turn to hit motorcyclist, good Samaritan faces another competency hearing
SANFORD, Fla. — It’s been almost a year since a good Samaritan was hit and killed while trying to help a motorcyclist who had also been hit by a car. The suspect was initially found to be incompetent to stand trial. But recently, his status has changed, giving hope to the victim’s family that her suspected killer will pay for his crime. The tragedy happened on State Road 46 near the Orlando Sanford International Airport. READ: Florida Lottery launches new scratch-off game with record-breaking top prizeSee the full story in the video above.
wftv.comHabitat for Humanity awarded $5,000 grant to use toward building, supporting affordable housing
Habitat for Humanity kicked off a national building blitz by starting a home in Sanford. ORLANDO, Fla. — Habitat for Humanity has been awarded a $5,000 grant from State Farm to use toward building and supporting affordable housing in Central Florida. According to a news release, Florida residents now need to make $24.82 an hour to afford a two-bedroom rental at fair-market value, a recent National Low Income Housing Coalition reported. READ: Young families leaving Orlando for more affordable spot, economists sayNine out of 10 of workers in essential occupations, such as ambulance drivers and teaching assistants, are unable to afford a one-bedroom rental, a news release said. “We are excited to continue supporting Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County efforts to help build affordable homes in our communities.”READ: Housing market sees big drop-off in JanuaryThe organization builds and repairs homes, and strengthens communities.
wftv.comSaturday marks 10 years since Trayvon Martin’s death
SANFORD, Fla. — Saturday marks 10 years since Trayvon Marin was killed in Sanford. It happened on Feb. 26, 2012, when Martin was visiting his father in a gated community in the city. READ: Trayvon Martin, 10 years later: Teen’s death changes nationMartin was shot by neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman, who was ultimately acquitted after claiming he fired in self-defense. READ: Trayvon Martin 10th anniversary: A look at the playersThe city of Sanford is commissioning a permanent display to remember Martin and the peaceful rallies and protests that happened after his death. 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.
wftv.comPopular beer-tasting fundraiser returns to Sanford
Central Florida Zoo’s popular “Brews Around the Zoo” fundraiser will return April 9. Organizers said the spring beer-tasting event will feature 30 craft beers while supporting a good cause. Our popular fundraiser, Brews Around the Zoo, is coming back on Saturday, April 9! The fundraiser is open only to those age 21 and up; guests must show a valid ID upon entry. The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is located at 3755 W. Seminole Blvd.
wftv.comSanford man accused of video voyeurism, possessing child pornography
Justin Johnson Sr. A Sanford man is accused of possessing child pornography and video voyeurism involving a child younger than age 16. (Seminole County Jail)SANFORD, Fla. — A Sanford man is accused of possessing child pornography and video voyeurism involving a child younger than age 16. Justin Johnson Sr., 47, was arrested Wednesday on three charges of sex offense video voyeurism involving a child younger than 16 years of age, as well as a charge of possessing 10 or more child porn images and possessing 10 or more obscene materials involving child porn. Johnson Sr. is being held at the Seminole County Jail. READ: Bob Saget: Police believe they know what led to his death, report says#mediarelease #breaking There will be a presser at 3:00pm in the Community Room of the Public Safety Complex regarding the arrest of Justin Dwayne Johnson Sr for Child Pornography and Video Voyeurism.
wftv.comTrayvon Martin, 10 years later: Teen’s death changes nation
The killing of Trayvon Martin at the hands of a stranger still reverberates 10 years later -- in protest, in partisanship, in racial reckoning and reactionary response, in social justice and social media. (AP Photo/Julie Fletcher, File) (Julie Fletcher)SANFORD, Fla. — Trayvon Martin’s final night began with a convenience store run, a quick trip for candy and something to drink. READ: Miami street will be named for Trayvon Martin“We’re the Trayvon Martin generation, we are the people who were moved into action because of it.”It happened on Feb. 26, 2012. Walking on the way back from the store, he was eyed by George Zimmerman, then 28, a member of the community’s neighborhood watch. But the ferment unleashed by Trayvon Martin’s death did not stop.
wftv.comStudent found with gun on campus arrested at Seminole High School, police say
Student found with gun on campus arrested at Seminole High School, police saySANFORD, Fla. — Sanford police said a student has been arrested after they were found with a gun on campus at Seminole High School. WATCH: 16-year-old charged in connection with shooting at Seminole High School identifiedPolice said the student was found in possession of a gun late in the day. Seminole High School principal Jordan Rodriguez released this statement Friday afternoon, saying they were told about the student regarding the weapon and “immediately located the student.”WATCH: Student accused of shooting fellow student at school could face life sentence if convictedSchool officials also confirmed that a weapon was found after searching the student. “We appreciate the individuals who provided information to law enforcement, and we also want take this opportunity to ask all our families to please speak with your children regarding the serious consequences that are involved with bringing weapons on campus,” Rodriguez said. WATCH: Seminole Schools Superintendent addresses ‘inexcusable act of violence’ after Seminole High shootingThe name and age of the student was not released by officials or law enforcement.
wftv.com9 things to do this weekend: Daytona 500, Ice Breaker opens at SeaWorld, Sanford Mardi Gras and more
Get ready to break the ice: SeaWorld’s Ice Breaker coaster is opening this weekend! Otronicon will take place at the Orlando Science Center through Monday. The city will host its 8th Annual Sanford Mardi Gras from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. To learn more about the event, click hereThe Orlando Solar Bears will take on the Indy Fuel at the Amway Center on Saturday. If you’re interested in learning more about the event, click here.
wftv.comBuilding dedicated in honor of first Black student to integrate Seminole County schools
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — A Sanford woman, the first African-American to integrate Seminole Junior High School in 1964, now has a building named after her. A building dedication ceremony was held for Ingrid Burton Nathan at Sanford Middle School on Wednesday. As a 14-year-old, Nathan helped integrate Seminole County schools. She came back to Seminole County and taught Spanish for 38 years until she retired in 2009. READ: University of Florida’s first Black student reflects on making history“It paved the way for so many things to happen that might not happen.
wftv.comJudge orders airlines to grant mask exemption for 4-year-old autistic child
SANFORD, Fla. — A federal judge in Massachusetts granted the family of a 4-year-old autistic child a 30-day exemption from federally mandated mask requirements on all airline flights. Michael Seklecki, whose son is autistic and travels to Boston regularly for specialized medical care, filed the lawsuit against American and Southwest airlines in January. In a statement, Seklecki thanked the judge for her decision. Read: Coronavirus: CDC considering updates to masking guidance“I’m grateful to the judge for taking this discrimination case seriously,” Seklecki said. Following Wednesday’s ruling, lawyers for American and Southwest issued a mask-exemption letter to Seklecki.
wftv.comPolice: Daycare worker charged after parents witness abuse on livestream
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — A Sanford woman is facing child abuse charges after police say she abused an 11 month old child in her care. Police said 26-year-old Teira Bryan forcefully pushed and shoved a child while feeding him at a Winter Springs daycare in January. After witnessing the incident the parents immediately drove to the daycare and called the police. Read: Seminole County commissioners to discuss big plans for former hot spotOn Tuesday Bryan was arrested and booked into the Seminole County jail on felony child abuse charges before being released on bond. 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.
wftv.comBoutique hotel coming to historic downtown Sanford
sanford hotel The city of Sanford is one step closer to having a hotel in the historic downtown area. (Historic Downtown Sanford)SANFORD, Fla. — The city of Sanford is one step closer to having a hotel in the historic downtown area. Last week, the city broke ground on the new Fulton Park development, which eventually will feature a 50-room boutique hotel called First Street Station. They said with so much going on in downtown Sanford, it’s hard to send people to the closest hotel, which is 3 miles away. READ: Seminole County and Sanford firefighters respond after several semi trucks catch fire“We have lots of events that are multi-day.
wftv.comSeminole County and Sanford firefighters respond after several semi trucks catch fire
Seminole County and Sanford firefighters respond after several semi trucks catch fireSANFORD, Fla. — Seminole County and Sanford firefighters responded early Sunday after multiple semi trucks caught fire. Photos: Seminole County and Sanford firefighters respond after several semi trucks catch fireExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 Seminole County and Sanford firefighters respond after several semi trucks catch fireThe facility was part of Cadel Truck Sales, according to firefighters. WATCH: 2 people and a dog killed after crash involving UPS truck in Melbourne, police sayDespite several trucks being damaged, no injuries were reported. WATCH: Parts of I-95 shut down after semi truck overturns early Saturday morningChannel 9 will have updates on this fire on Eyewitness News. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.
wftv.comLIVE UPDATES: Seminole High School on lockdown due to law enforcement activity
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Seminole High School is on a code red lockdown due to an incident on or near the main campus, the district confirmed Wednesday afternoon. “Students are safe and there is no current threat to the campus,” a district spokesperson said in an email. #Breaking SPD is responding to an incident at Seminole High. The scene is contained and there is no longer an active threat. — SanfordPolice (@SanfordPolice) January 19, 2022Click 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.
wftv.comMore than $42K donated to Pet Alliance during Betty White Challenge
SANFORD, Fla. — The staff at the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando had one message as they looked at their computer screens Monday afternoon: Central Florida, thank you for being a friend. To mark what would’ve been the icon’s 100th birthday, people around the world donated to their local pet shelters in honor of the animal-loving actress. READ: ‘Thank you for being a friend’: #bettywhitechallenge encourages donating to local animal sheltersSee our photo gallery below:Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 9 Pet Alliance A family looks at adoptable dogs at the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando shelter. (Nick Papantonis)“I thought, ‘Oh, you know, a few people donate here, there,’” Pet Alliance Director of Marketing Cathy Rodgers said. READ: More than 50,000 meals donated to Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando“By March, we are doing a temporary shelter space on Central Boulevard – it’ll be a cat only shelter and we’ll have a veterinarian there,” Rodgers said.
wftv.comMore than 50,000 meals donated to Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando
Pet food donation Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando received a donation of more than 50,000 meals on Tuesday. (WFTV.com News Staff)SANFORD, Fla. — Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando received a donation of more than 50,000 meals on Tuesday. The donation was made possible because of the successful GivingTuesday Pet Food Drive, in which Wag! READ: Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando chooses construction company to build new animal shelter, hospitalExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 Dogs rescued from Hurricane Elsa Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando helped rescue 28 dogs from facing the brunt of Hurricane Elsa this week. (Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando)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.
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