10th November 2023

Technical Issues Leave Multiple Universal Studios Florida Rides Shut Down

Several rides at Universal Studios Florida experienced technical difficulties and were down for a period of time Thursday, according to park officials.

NSM.today • 2nd May 2023

Walt Disney World files lawsuit against DeSantis: Here’s why

Walt Disney World filed a lawsuit against Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday for violating the company’s right to freedom of speech and for "government retaliation," according to a legal document.

The lawsuit by Disney stated that there was targeted “government retaliation — orchestrated at every step by Gov. DeSantis as punishment for Disney’s protected speech," according to the legal document.

Disney also stated the government retaliation threatens its business operations, jeopardizes its econom

NSM.today • 12th November 2022

UCF students explore their identities through poetry in new workshop

Exploring one's identity through poetry is something Matt Ricke has felt strongly about, so he opened a workshop for students to learn and share their voices.

NSM.today • 10th March 2022

'Don't Say Gay' bill passes the Florida Senate

The "Don’t Say Gay" bill passed the Florida Senate by a 22-17 vote on Tuesday and is awaiting Gov. Ron DeSantis’ overview and signature.

If the bill gets DeSantis' signature, it will go into place July 1, before the new school year.

The bill, Florida's Parental Rights in Education, would prohibit the discussion of LGBTQ+ identities in students from kindergarten through 3rd grade. It would also allow parents to sue schools if topics of LGBTQ+ identity come up in the classroom.

The 2019 Nationa

NSM.today • 9th February 2022

Breaking the glass screen: UCF alumna speaks on women in gaming

A game designer broke the glass screen and addressed the glitch of representation in the gaming industry on Friday during the online virtual speaker series "Women in Games and Interactive Media."

Alexia Mandeville, lead game designer at Niantic and UCF '14 digital media alumna, spoke on her experiences and journey as a woman in the gaming industry and what she wishes digital media majors will take from her.

“I hope that people understand that they can do anything. There are all these rules in

NSM.today • 7th February 2022

Charges filed against three neo Nazis who attacked Jewish UCF student

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office arrested three men involved in the neo-Nazi rally at Waterford Lakes Town Center, according to a tweet Feb. 4.

NSM.today • 4th February 2022

Critical race theory: educating about equity, uniting society

"Critical race theory" is three words that can stir up a conversation in a room for hours, so a host and four panelists made a webinar out of it on Sunday.

NSM.today • 31st January 2022

Neo-Nazis spotted near UCF taunting bystanders

Neo-Nazis were spotted sporting antisemitic symbols and waving swastika flags on Saturday at Waterford Lakes Town Center in East Orlando.

The rally was organized by the National Socialist Movement, and several unidentified individuals were seen donning swastikas, taunting bystanders and yelling "white power," according to eyewitness accounts and videos.

Hannah Mason, senior advertising and public relations major, said she first saw the incident after seeing Snapchat videos her friend sent to h

30th September 2024

A Thrill-Seeker's Guide: Conquering Roller Coasters and Extreme Attractions

Some people are into theme parks for the food, characters, and family bonding. Others are into them for the thrills, adrenaline, and sense of adventure when conquering a new ride. If you are the latter, you definitely know how to enjoy a theme park. Here are some tips and tricks to get the most out of your trip so you can take on every ride like a  pro. ‍If you’re wanting to hit every thrill ride the parks have to offer, make sure to make an itinerary on what rides to hit and when! Construct a l...

VoxPopuli • 5th July 2023

Oakland receives $2 million for stormwater harvesting project

The town of Oakland received a $2 million appropriation from the 2023-2024 state budget , which went into effect July 1, to help fund its stormwater harvesting project. Storm water collection will enable the town to reduce its reliance on drinking water for irrigation.

VoxPopuli • 24th April 2023

Community leader answers DeSantis book bans by opening library

In Orange County, there's more than one way to get books about Black history into students’ hands.



While Gov. Ron DeSantis's administration is working to remove books and other media from classrooms and school libraries under the guise that they teach , community leader Lawanna Gelzer has found a way to make all kinds of books available — but particularly those about Black life, Black history and by Black authors.

An Orlando activist who fights against systemic racism, Gelzer opened the Ms

VoxPopuli • 3rd March 2023

The uncontested local election

Ocoee goes to the polls March 14 while Winter Garden and Windermere voters sit out canceled elections — and not for the first time. Why don’t municipal elections have more candidates?

NSM.today • 9th February 2023

This local band will have listeners "Holding on for Dear Life"

If a poet, a jazz drummer, a saxophonist and an upright bassist walk into a bar, chances are it's the folk punk band Holding on for Dear Life getting ready to perform a gig.

VoxPopuli • 20th January 2023

Can you get an abortion at a drugstore?

Retail pharmacies can now sell the “abortion pill” by prescription — but likely not in Florida.

VoxPopuli • 5th January 2023

Oakland juggles multiple water projects

In late October, the Town of Oakland announced it had received in state funding for its water system bypass project intended to provide residents with high quality drinking water in case of a water main break. The grant money will help cover half the construction costs, and the bypass is expected to be completed next summer.

State Sen. Geraldine F. Thompson, who represents District 44, which includes Oakland, helped procure the grant.

“There has been a great deal of growth in Central Florida,

NSM.today • 30th November 2022

'Enough is enough': UCF community reacts to deaths of Iranian protesters

Although recent rumors of mass Iranian executions are untrue, UCF students, alumni and professors continue to keep up with updates and protests for Iranian human rights.

“Whenever I hear, one kid has been killed, it has torched me,” said Sara Hjz, a protester and UCF Ph.D. candidate. “I have friends, classmates and cousins back there. They are brave enough to endanger their lives for their values, and I wish I were next to them.”

Protests broke out two months ago and made national headlines af

NSM.today • 4th November 2022

UCF Muslim Student Association advocates for halal food options on campus

Grabbing lunch on campus seems like the most relaxing part of the day, but for members of UCF's Muslim Student Association, finding a quick and easy halal meal is just another daily task.

VoxPopuli • 24th October 2022

"Just the tip of the iceberg"

Four Muslim women in West Orange on what the protests in Iran mean to them

NSM.today • 28th April 2022

UCF YDSA responds to student reactions for Safe Sex Week table

Students had mixed reactions to the tabling for the Young Democratic Socialists of America’s Safe Sex Week, especially toward a "pin the clit" game.

NSM.today • 3rd April 2022

UCF student brings claw machine to Knights Circle

Destiny Violano brought a claw machine to Knights Circle to live her home-arcade dreams, grab the attention of students and win some friends.

NSM.today • 8th March 2022

"Stand up, fight back": Crowds gather for Rally for Collective Rights at Orlando City Hall

Crowds and guest speakers gathered to rally against recent controversial bills being passed in Florida at Orlando City Hall on Feb. 26.

These recent bills affect LGBTQ+ rights, immigrants, people of color and those with a reproductive system.

Bills such as "Don’t Say Gay" bill and the "Stop WOKE Act" have been striking fear and anger in students, teachers and parents who believe Black and LGBTQ+ voices should not be silenced or censored in the classroom, according to Independent.

The "Don’t S

NSM.today • 22nd February 2022

'Fresh-air cuts': UCF students get free haircuts outside the library

Kevin Kant did not expect to get his hair cut right outside of the John C. Hitt Library when he was heading there to study Wednesday afternoon.

NSM.today • 12th March 2023

Photos: "Human rights are under attack": Fight For Trans Rights occurs at Orlando City Hall

Crowds of protesters gathered at Orlando City Hall on Saturday for the Fight For Trans Rights.

NSM.today • 30th November 2022

'Enough is enough': UCF community reacts to deaths of Iranian protesters

Although recent rumors of mass Iranian executions are untrue, UCF students, alumni and professors continue to keep up with updates and protests for Iranian human rights.

“Whenever I hear, one kid has been killed, it has torched me,” said Sara Hjz, a protester and UCF Ph.D. candidate. “I have friends, classmates and cousins back there. They are brave enough to endanger their lives for their values, and I wish I were next to them.”

Protests broke out two months ago and made national headlines af

NSM.today • 4th November 2022

UCF Muslim Student Association advocates for halal food options on campus

Grabbing lunch on campus seems like the most relaxing part of the day, but for members of UCF's Muslim Student Association, finding a quick and easy halal meal is just another daily task.

NSM.today • 28th April 2022

UCF YDSA responds to student reactions for Safe Sex Week table

Students had mixed reactions to the tabling for the Young Democratic Socialists of America’s Safe Sex Week, especially toward a "pin the clit" game.

NSM.today • 3rd April 2022

UCF student brings claw machine to Knights Circle

Destiny Violano brought a claw machine to Knights Circle to live her home-arcade dreams, grab the attention of students and win some friends.

NSM.today • 22nd March 2022

Photos: UCF students rally for reproductive rights, chant 'my body, my choice'

The Young Democratic Socialists of America at UCF organized the Rally for Reproductive Freedom at Memory Mall on Wednesday. The group rallied against the recent abortion bill passed in the Florida Senate on March 3.

NSM.today • 6th March 2022

Photos: 'Stand up, fight back', crowds gather for Rally for Collective Rights at Orlando City Hall

The Rally for Collective Rights was held at Orlando City Hall on Feb. 26. The rally goes against recent bills being passed in Florida, such as the 15-week abortion ban bill, which limits the time one can receive an abortion; the "Don't Say Gay" bill, which bans the teaching of LGBT+ knowledge in the classroom; and the Stop Woke Act, which would ban discussion on critical race theory in schools. Hundreds of people went to the rally along with guest speakers to discuss their experience as minorities and how these bills may affect them.

NSM.today • 22nd February 2022

'Fresh-air cuts': UCF students get free haircuts outside the library

Kevin Kant did not expect to get his hair cut right outside of the John C. Hitt Library when he was heading there to study Wednesday afternoon.

Alana Wilson’s Helping Hands Village • 31st March 2024

Books & Films For Children of Incarcerated Adults

About 2.6 million U.S children have a parent who is incarcerated, according to A Developmental Perspective on Children With Incarcerated Parents, yet the media rarely represents these youths. It’s important to find representation so you do not feel alone.

Central Florida Lifestyle • 27th December 2023

Big Blue Bus of Fantastic Fashion: Canyon Couture

This big blue bus gives a different name to ‘fast’ fashion. Sara Bartlett, small business owner of Canyon Couture, sells vintage, sustainably sourced, and handmade clothing out of a school bus she turned into her own shop.

Bartlett started the shop around 2019 when she purchased an old school bus and renovated it to fit her business to combine her love of travel with a job that gives her a lot of freedom.

“I just always wanted to work for myself. I like making my own hours,” Bartlett said. “I

Central Florida Lifestyle • 22nd December 2023

Unique Christmas Traditions From Around The World You Should Know

If you’re all about traveling during the holidays or learning new traditions, remember the custom way to celebrate them! Many countries and states have wonderful Christmas traditions you can embrace, whether on your travels or looking for a new way to enjoy the holidays from home.

While we have advent calendars in the States, Germany was the first to use them to mark off the days before Christmas! Get an advent calendar this December to enjoy a surprise each day while counting down to Christmas

Central Florida Lifestyle • 8th November 2023

4 Gluten-Free Holiday Recipes That Will Make You Jolly

Holidays can be a difficult time for someone with food restrictions. If you do not consume gluten, many recipes are perfect for the whole family to enjoy without anyone feeling left out at the table. If you cook for a loved one with an allergy, just cook in a gluten-free space to avoid cross-contamination!

These stuffed mushrooms will be a perfect pre-game before the main course, and the nuts and herbs will have you in the holiday spirit.
• Hollow out mushrooms by taking out stems (save on the

Central Florida Lifestyle • 2nd November 2023

2023 Holiday Gift Guide To Make Shopping A Breeze

The holiday season is quickly approaching, and it’s time to decide on the perfect gifts for your loved ones. From items they can use daily to fun surprises that remind you of them, there’s a lot to choose from this year in this holiday gift guide.

A smartwatch is the perfect gift for your loved one who is always on their feet. Whether they want to track their steps or check the time at work, this watch will be something they can use daily!

An Amazon Echo would be a beneficial addition to the h

Central Florida Lifestyle • 24th October 2023

New Orlando Restaurants to Take by Storm if You’re a Foodie

Are you a foodie looking for your next favorite hidden gem? Well, you’re in luck because Orlando restaurants are constantly popping up throughout town. Check out one of these newly opened Orlando restaurants for a delicious experience. Ranging from vegan food to authentic New York City restaurants, you’ll love at least one of these hot spots.

Claiming to have Orlando’s first Korean BBQ in a cup, this restaurant recently opened in August and is ready to serve some tremendous Korean street food.

Central Florida Lifestyle • 17th October 2023

Halloween Events for Adults so Affordable It’s Scary

Celebrating Halloween isn’t just for kids. If you want to hit the town and have fun without splurging at the theme parks, it’s still possible to enjoy Halloween in Orlando. Check out these adult-friendly events to make the most of this year’s spooky season.

Halloween weekend offers you a bar crawl with the chance to experience “adult-style trick or treating” as you hop from bar to bar in costume. The bar crawl will be on October 27 and 28, as well as October 21 if you already have Halloween pla

Central Florida Lifestyle • 11th September 2023

Embrace the Wurst: The Best Oktoberfest Events in Orlando

Prost! Mark your calendars and plan to celebrate Oktoberfest locally and enjoy culture, music, beer, and delicious foods. Oktoberfest is an annual 16-day-long Volksfest that originated in Germany in the 1800s and celebrates Bavarian culture, but the festivities are widely famous for the amount of beer consumed. Despite the name, Oktoberfest is held from mid-September to early October.

From bar hopping to beer gardens, you can check out Oktoberfest at several locations in Greater Orlando and sur

Central Florida Lifestyle • 8th July 2023

Join The Movement To Help The Planet: Plastic-Free July

This summer is the best time to reduce your plastic footprint and better the planet and oceans.

Plastic Oceans states that 380 million tons of plastic are produced yearly, with 50% estimated for single-use purposes. Taking up the challenge of Plastic Free July this year will ensure that you can find alternatives to one-time-use plastic products.

Plastic Free July is a challenge from the Plastic Free Foundation that encourages minimizing the use of single-use plastic products. Registering for t

Central Florida Lifestyle • 26th June 2023

Summer In Florida: Human Trafficking Is Here

Vacation is a time to forget your troubles and let loose, but you should always stay on high alert and pay attention to your surroundings to avoid human trafficking schemes.

Florida ranks third in human trafficking cases, according to Osceola County’s Sheriff’s Office. The three types of human trafficking to avoid are sex trafficking, forced labor, and domestic servitude. The most common places for trafficking in the state are tourist hubs like Orlando, Miami, and Tampa.

Human Trafficking Sear

Central Florida Lifestyle • 22nd May 2023

Foster Love: Building an Emotionally Safe Haven for Kids

When welcoming an adolescent in foster care into your home for the first time, it can be scary for you and them. Here are a few steps you can implement to make the process easier, more trusting, and less frightening.

FosterVA states that many children or teens who are in foster care feel a loss of things like safety, control, innocence, and trust. If caregivers reflect on these losses, they may be able to sit down with their child and develop a sense of empathy and understanding.

Many social s

Central Florida Lifestyle • 9th May 2023

Postpartum Gifts to Make New Parents’ Lives Easier

New parents often get a surplus of onesies and baby rattles at their baby showers, but gifts for the after-effects of birth may not be as noted. New parents can benefit from additional support to make the transition with their newborn smoother and more comfortable. Here are some gifts to consider purchasing.

Finding time and energy to cook or go to the store may be difficult with a newborn. Food delivery gift cards for restaurants or grocery stores can be a lifesaver to new parents without the

Central Florida Lifestyle • 24th April 2023

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Celebrates 25 Years and Earth Day

Disney’s Animal Kingdom celebrated its 25th Anniversary and Earth Day! Park visitors were in for a fun-filled day, starting with festivities at the Tree of Life in the morning and meeting Moana upon her arrival on the island.

The celebrations at the Tree of Life kicked off the day with a musical performance from the Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe. Guests could even participate and dance with the group!

Guest speakers made an appearance as well. Animal Kingdom Vice President Sarah Riles commemorat

Central Florida Lifestyle • 19th April 2023

Sensory Sundays And All-Inclusive Fun to Seek Out

Museums and fun centers in Central Florida can be loud, overwhelming, and overstimulating. This may prevent you from going somewhere you otherwise might enjoy. Many places cater to being all-inclusive or offer special days known as ‘Sensory Sundays’ to create an accessible environment. This makes it possible for anyone with hypersensitivities to have a great time while staying comfortable.

WonderWorks hosts Sensory Day for kids and adults who may feel more comfortable with limited stimulation o

Central Florida Lifestyle • 15th April 2023

Here are Some ‘Cool’ Activities to Beat the Heat

The temperatures are rising again, but that does not mean you have to stay inside with the A.C. blasted. If you want to ice things up, here are some cool activities to keep you from melting away into your couch.

Too hot to go to the parks? Enjoy a show at Disney on Ice and experience Frozen live with all the chilling effects! Unlike Elsa, the cold may bother you, but the audience sing-alongs, aerial acrobats and world-class ice skating will keep you in the heat of the moment.

Along with Anna,

Central Florida Lifestyle • 10th April 2023

The Big Six: Self-Care for Every Aspect of Your Life

Sometimes we forget to take a breath and put ourselves first. Between our jobs and responsibilities, it is not always easy to find the time to reflect and do things to benefit ourselves. Many healthcare centers note that there are 6 types of self-care you can practice at home.

We all hear that taking a walk is beneficial if feeling overwhelmed. As cliche as it may sound, fresh air is good for the mind. You can go to one of the nature trails in Central Florida, walk around your neighborhood, or

Central Florida Lifestyle • 3rd April 2023

How To Save a Life: Administering Narcan and CPR

Knowing when to act in a life-or-death situation can be stressful, so it is good to be prepared. If you are CPR-certified or carry Narcan, you can be a crucial asset in a medical emergency.

While knowing CPR is handy in any situation, using it when a loved one has used drugs may save a life. Sen. Rick Scott sent a letter on March 13 to all Florida School Superintendents notifying parents of a fentanyl crisis.

Florida was the second top nation for fentanyl overdose in 2021, according to the Flo

Central Florida Lifestyle • 18th March 2023

Powerful Books to Read for Women’s History Month

Kick back with these books this Women’s History Month and have a chance to hear the stories of influential women. While these are heavy reads, they definitely are worth your time.

Most of us have heard of retired actress Jennette McCurdy’s 2022 book, “I’m Glad My Mom Died”, which tells the story of her struggles as a child star, her relationship with her abusive mother, and struggles with her childhood eating disorders.

In this dark comedy memoir, you will read the truth of McCurdy’s life when

Central Florida Lifestyle • 17th March 2023

Lift Your Spirits: Charities That Spread Joy and Help Others

It’s always good to stay alert to what is going on in your community and give back to any charities. While it is expected to have exciting spring plans and devote some time to yourself, working towards bringing awareness to a cause is an effective use of your time that helps better the community.

Several events in Central Florida will have you committing your time to help shine a light on topics ranging from child abuse to accessibility.

Embrace Families is a nonprofit which oversees child wel

Central Florida Lifestyle • 16th March 2023

​​Travel The World With These Local Hidden Food Spots

Are you looking to try new food from different cultures? From ice cream to coffee to pho, these local small businesses will help you explore Central Florida and give you the next best hangout spot!

With a drink and sandwich menu, comic books, records, and board games that you can rent and play with friends, Blackbird Comics will be your next hangout spot! This local mom-and-pop is one of the coziest hangout spots in Central Florida, so grab a coffee and play some Catan! Support this mom-and-pop

Central Florida Lifestyle • 13th March 2023

Mocktails for St. Patrick’s Day to Make at Home

If you like St. Patrick’s Day but don’t drink or want to make something for the kids, bright green mocktails are the way to go! Stock up on green food dye and rainbow sprinkles, and check out some of these drink ideas!

This green drink is pretty simple, yet delicious! You can never go wrong with a float.

Combine the Sprite and a couple of drops of green food coloring, and add a big scoop (or two) of ice cream! If you’d like, add some rainbow sprinkles for extra good luck!

We all have to have

Central Florida Lifestyle • 17th February 2023

Say Cheers to These Giveaways on National Margarita Day

Relax, grab a drink, and enjoy National Margarita Day on February 22. Margaritas aren’t just for vacation. There are multiple places to check out in Central Florida that will have you kicking back with a drink in hand and trying your luck at some giveaways!

Lime lovers unite! Not only will they have $5 drinks all day on Feb 22, but Lime Fresh Mexican Grill is giving away free frozen margaritas for a YEAR to three lucky people. Enter this giveaway and save yourself during a hot Florida summer! T

Central Florida Lifestyle • 31st January 2023

DIY Valentine’s Day Gift: Made With Love

Are you looking for a unique gift for your significant other this Valentine’s Day? There is nothing more personal and meaningful than making something with your hands. A personally crafted gift shows compassion and effort. Here are a few ideas on the perfectly DIYed gift to give your partner.

You and your partner can sort through your closets and exchange old denim jackets or choose to buy some at the thrift store. After acquiring the jackets, you can decorate them with your partner’s favorite

Central Florida Lifestyle • 31st January 2023

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Sustainable Style on a Budget

Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day outfit or any other date night can be tricky unless you know where to shop. Markets are your best friend. From handmade accessories to flowy skirts, you’ll be able to get the perfect outfit while saving money and the planet. Here are a few places to go (and sellers to buy from) to look and feel great on date night.

Going to a flea market is the best way to find affordable, second-hand clothing and one-of-a-kind handmade pieces. There are several flea markets