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Epic Universe Opening Makes Orlando the Theme Park Capital of the Universe

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Source: Universal's Epic Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Let the theme park wars begin!
Orlando has officially cemented itself as the Theme Park Capital of the Universe following today’s grand opening of Universal Epic Universe, the first new major theme park to open in the city in 25 years. This ambitious new addition from Universal Orlando Resort transports guests to five imaginative worlds filled with cinematic adventure, wizarding magic, video game thrills, and monstrous legends.

This is an incredibly exciting day as we officially unveil Universal Epic Universe to the world,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “Our teams have poured a decade’s worth of passion, vision and creativity into this park, and there’s truly nothing else like it.”

The Battle of the Giants: Disney vs. Universal

The debut of Epic Universe marks a pivotal chapter in Orlando’s long-running theme park rivalry between Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort.

From Magic Kingdom’s iconic Cinderella Castle to Universal’s immersive cinematic worlds, these titans have consistently raised the bar in redefining imagination and guest experiences.

This new park brings Orlando’s theme park total to nine major parks within a 25-mile radius, with both Universal and Disney continuously expanding and innovating.

The new park was announced during a press conference attended by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, Tom Williams, and Brian Roberts. Governor DeSantis, Mayor Demings, and County Commissioners joined Universal Orlando executives for the announcement of the company’s fourth theme park in Orlando, Florida, August 1, 2019. Photo by Florida National News / J Willie David, III.

“Disney and Universal theme park wars are for titans, and I’m proud Orlando is where the magic is created,” said J. Willie David, III, President of Florida National News. “From California’s Disneyland to Orlando’s Disney World and now Epic Universe, we’re watching giants compete to create the next multiverse destination — and it’s Orlando’s hospitality and tourism industry that wins.”

Source: Universal’s Epic Universe

Epic Universe: Orlando’s Newest Game-Changer

Epic Universe isn’t just another theme park — it’s a bold, immersive experience featuring five groundbreaking themed lands:

  • Celestial Park: A lushly landscaped world of waterways, starlight, and racing coasters.

  • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic: A 1920s wizarding Paris and the British Ministry of Magic experience.

  • SUPER NINTENDO WORLD: Home to Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventure, and the U.S. debut of Donkey Kong Country.

  • How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk: A Viking-themed land complete with dragon rides and shows.

  • Dark Universe: A gothic horror-inspired land featuring Universal Monsters like Dracula and Frankenstein’s Monster.

And towering beside it is the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a 500-room Mediterranean-style resort with a dedicated park entrance.

Who’s the Real Champion of Theme Parks?

While Disney holds the legacy title with icons like Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios, Universal has swiftly positioned itself as an innovative rival, bringing popular franchises and cinematic experiences to life.

Epic Universe’s opening is more than a milestone — it’s another bold step in the ongoing battle between these industry titans.

Who will create the next multiverse theme park experience in Florida?
With Universal Epic Universe now open and Disney constantly expanding its parks and experiences, the battle is far from over. But one thing is certain:

Source: Universal’s Epic Universe

Orlando is the undisputed Theme Park Capital of the Universe.

“This is where the world comes to play,” added David. “And the world is watching.”

_______________________________________________________________________________

FLORIDA NATIONAL NEWS
News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Entertainment

WATCH: FNN News Podcast en Español, Tuesdays at 6:30pm EST

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Tuesdays at 6:30 PM, Florida National News’ Spanish-language platform, FNN News Podcast en Español, kicks off 2026 with powerful conversations on the issues that matter most to our Spanish-speaking communities in Florida and beyond.
Hosted by Monica Hoyos, Javier Garcia, Maria del Carmen Rodriguez, and Rosarito Jordan, the podcast dives into today’s hottest topics—news, politics, community issues, culture, business, and stories that impact our everyday lives.
This podcast is more than a show—it’s a community forum. Our mission is to inform, empower, and elevate Latino voices, creating a trusted space where perspectives are heard, questions are asked, and solutions are explored together.
We want to hear from you.
Community leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates, creatives, and everyday changemakers are invited to join the conversation and be a guest on the show. Your voice matters, and your story can inspire others.
Expect more in 2026—more dialogue, more representation, deeper conversations, and a stronger connection to the communities we serve.
– FNN News Podcast en Español
– Tuesdays | 6:30 PM
– Your voice. Your community. Your news.
FNN SPAINSH
Los martes a las 6:30 p. m., la plataforma en español de Florida National News, FNN News Podcast en Español, da inicio al 2026 con conversaciones poderosas sobre los temas que más importan a nuestras comunidades hispanohablantes en Florida y más allá.
Conducido por Mónica Hoyos, Javier García, María del Carmen Rodríguez y Rosarito Jordan, el podcast aborda los temas más relevantes del momento, incluyendo noticias, política, asuntos comunitarios, cultura, negocios y las historias que impactan nuestra vida diaria.
Este podcast es más que un programa: es un foro comunitario. Nuestra misión es informar, empoderar y elevar las voces latinas, creando un espacio confiable donde se escuchan las perspectivas, se plantean preguntas y se construyen soluciones en conjunto.
Queremos escucharte.
Líderes comunitarios, empresarios, defensores, creativos y agentes de cambio están invitados a sumarse a la conversación y ser invitados especiales del programa. Tu voz importa y tu historia puede inspirar a otros.
Espera más en este 2026: más diálogo, más representación, conversaciones más profundas y una conexión más fuerte con las comunidades a las que servimos.
– FNN News Podcast en Español
– Martes | 6:30 p. m.
– Tu voz. Tu comunidad. Tus noticias.

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Central Florida News

“Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker” Brings Diversity and Magic to Orlando’s Holiday Stage

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN ARTS & CULTURE)Orlando Community Arts, Inc. proudly presents “Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker,” an original adaptation of the classic Nutcracker story written by Beverly Page, published author and executive producer. This vibrant holiday production brings the magic of the season to life while celebrating the cultural diversity that defines Central Florida.

Audiences are invited to join Clare on a magical journey through her enchanting dream, traveling alongside the Chocolate Nutcracker and the Sugar Plum Fairy around the world — from Africa and Asia to the Caribbean, India, and beyond — before reaching the dazzling Kingdom of Toys.

Described as soulful, bold, colorful, exciting, lively, and delightful, “Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker” offers an unforgettable holiday experience for the entire family — filled with music, dance, and cultural storytelling that capture the heart of the season.

About Steglich Ross and Associates

Steglich Ross and Associates, based in Apopka, Florida, are premier experts in crafting and executing large-scale events that elevate brands and inspire audiences. The firm specializes in festival planning, marketing strategy, brand development, and creative web design, offering personalized solutions that help clients connect with their communities in meaningful ways.

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Entertainment

Jeffery Lorenzo Williams: Defying Limits and Redefining Possibility

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Source: Jeffery Williams

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS)When you hear the word “disability,” it’s easy to imagine limits, restrictions, and barriers. But for Jeffery Lorenzo Williams, those words have no place in his vocabulary. Paralyzed at 13, Williams identifies as a person of determination — a term that reflects strength and capability, not limitation. His life has become a masterclass in turning adversity into empowerment, proving that the most powerful movement begins in the mind.

During an exclusive interview with FNN News, Williams reflected on the event that changed his life and the mindset that carried him forward.

“I never focused on what I couldn’t do,” Williams said. “I focused on what I could and I just kept moving forward.”

That perspective has shaped a career defined by reinvention. Today, Williams is an accomplished New York City real estate broker, motivational author, pilot, and footwear designer. Each title tells part of the same story — one of perseverance, creativity, and purpose.

Through his footwear brand JLorenzo’s, Williams designs adaptive sneakers that merge fashion with motivation. His collections feature empowering inscriptions such as “Be somebody nobody thought you could be.” He laughs as he recalls me being his first customer. “Each inscription represents walking not just physically, but walking in purpose,” he said.

His work has not only built a stylish, inclusive brand but has also redefined what representation in fashion can look like. Earlier this year, Williams brought that message to Daniel’s Leather’s Inclusive Fashion Show during New York Fashion Week 2025, joining nearly 40 wheelchair-using models, including Ms. Wheelchair America 2026, Latavia Sturdivant. The event was more than a showcase — it was a celebration of visibility and empowerment. “The energy was incredible,” Williams said. “It wasn’t about being different, it was about being seen.”

Kareen Kennedy wearing her JLorenzos in 2019

Beyond fashion, Williams takes his passion for breaking barriers to the skies. As a licensed pilot, he flies glider planes, something he calls the ultimate expression of freedom.

“Flying gives me freedom,” he said. “It’s proof that even when life grounds you, you can still soar.”

His memoir, “My Feet Are Off the Ground: Turning Tragedy Into Triumph,” chronicles his remarkable journey from paralysis to success. Proceeds from the book fund nursing scholarships, extending his lifelong commitment to giving back. Looking ahead, Williams plans to bring his story to new audiences through a documentary and a stage play, with his son, Jeff Jr., potentially portraying him on screen.

Photo Courtesy of Jeffery Williams

When asked if he would change his past, Williams paused thoughtfully before answering.

“Of course, I’d love to walk,” he said. “But if I hadn’t gone through what I did, I wouldn’t have been able to touch and change lives the way I have. That’s worth more than anything.”

Jeffery Lorenzo Williams doesn’t just live with determination — he embodies it. Through his work, his story, and his example, he continues to challenge the world’s perception of ability. His life is a vivid reminder that real barriers often exist only where others place them, and that courage, when paired with purpose, can truly move mountain.

In a world quick to define people by their obstacles, Jeffery Lorenzo Williams is a compelling reminder that true limitation exists only where we allow it.

_________________________________________________________________

Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com

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