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Forty years ago, Walt Disney World introduced the Epcot Pavilion known as Living Seas. In 1986, the company reportedly spent $90 million on the project, which the Orlando Sentinel called “its most ambitious and expensive pavilion ever.” A Disney spokesperson called it “the world’s sixth ocean.” All of this happened before fish with short attention spans appeared on the big screen, and park visitors knew nothing about what was called a “cramobile.” Things changed, and half a lifetime ago in 2006, the area was rethemed and renamed “She’s with Nemo & Friends.” Other things remain unchanged, including the 5.7 million…

Epcot International Arts Festival returns with a wide variety of disciplines. While this remains a highly visual event, it is designed to be a feast for the ears and taste buds. The theme park will once again feature sets from Broadway singers, walk-in artwork, behind-the-scenes exhibits, and culinary creations served at 24 locations. (I do have a Skittles product or two, and I have to admit, it’s a colorful option.) First held at Walt Disney World in 2017, the fest is included with regular Epcot admission. The period is from January 16th to February 23rd. Community Core Encore Now in…

SeaWorld Orlando has announced the majority of its lineup for its 2026 Seven Seas Food Festival concert series. First up is Flo Rida on January 31st. There are 25 concert dates listed, some with multiple performers. And with five slots available in April and May, SeaWorld has hinted there will be a “surprise guest”. “This is the largest and most diverse concert lineup we have ever presented as part of the Seven Seas Food Festival,” SeaWorld Orlando Director John Peterson said in a news release. Previous schedules include both Bow Wow and Bow Wow Wow, Boys II Men and All-4-One,…

This weekend, Central Winds Park in Winter Springs resembles the rolling hills of Scotland, complete with bagpipes, highland games, herding dogs and even haggis. These festivities are part of the 48th Central Florida Scottish Highland Games, which will return on January 17th and 18th to celebrate the sights, sounds, and flavors of Scotland. Attendees can experience a piper, dancing, animals, craft vendors, ax throwing, archery, medieval camping, children’s activities, food and beverages, athletics and more. There is enough variety to satisfy visitors with all interests, but athletic events such as stone throwing, hammer throwing, cabertoss, bundle throwing and weighted overbars…

A day after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis delivered his final State of the State address to lawmakers, a new poll from Mason Dixon Polling & Strategy shows the governor’s approval ratings remain healthy overall but are declining among key voter groups, particularly independents and women. The poll found that 50% of Florida voters approve of DeSantis’ job performance, while 46% disapprove and 4% are unsure. While still good, the numbers reflect the governor’s lowest approval rating since he took office, and represent a 3-point drop from the 53% approval rating measured last March. Related content: Percentage of American voters who…

Florida parents are school selective at one of the highest rates in the nation, with an estimated 3.2 million parents of school-age children considering at least one new school for their child in the past year. A new survey of 508 Florida parents released by the National Foundation for School Choice reveals that 81% of Florida parents are considering a new school for at least one child by 2025. 26% of people ended up enrolling their children in a new school, higher than the national enrollment rate of 21%. Parents most often cited practical reasons for their search, including transitioning…

What does it mean to be a Scottish clan leader in 2026? And more importantly, what does it mean to belong? These are the central themes touched upon in a documentary being shown in a special screening at the Enzian Theater this week. “Meet the Buchanans” will be shown Thursday to coincide with this weekend’s Central Florida Scottish Highland Games in Winter Springs. Film director Barbara Orton and the clan chief’s son Rory Buchanan will also be in attendance. The 90-minute documentary begins with the lush greenery and rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands, specifically Cambusmore Estate, where Mike Buchanan…

Universal Orlando has announced 11 concerts related to the Mardi Gras celebration at Universal Studios Florida theme park. Among the performers are DJ Mode RuPaul, Bebe Rexha, Zedd and former boy banders Joey Fatone and AJ McLean sharing the Music Plaza stage. Performances will begin on February 7th and run on select nights through March 28th. Universal also announced information about the event’s nightly parade and tribute store, which will run through April 4, as well as offering three months of free annual passes. The concert lineup is subject to change, but is as follows: February 7: Cascade (“I Remember”,…

First impressions are important, especially in a professional setting. Your skills, experience, and confidence do the heavy lifting, but how you present yourself can subtly influence how you’re perceived. Clear, healthy-looking skin alone won’t get the job done, but it can help your skin look more refined, energized, and put together. The good news? There is no need for complicated or expensive treatments. A simple, consistent skin care routine will support your appearance and confidence as you navigate interviews, networking events, and daily work life. Why skin care affects professional confidence When your skin looks tired, irritated, or congested, it’s…

2025 was not the greatest year for job creation. The U.S. job market has remained stagnant since the Trump administration imposed flat tariffs, and the slowdown intensified after President Trump’s “Emancipation Day” tariff announcement, according to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Tariff Costs US, a group opposed to the president’s tariff hikes, claims that U.S. manufacturing has lost jobs every month since April, with about 8,000 jobs lost in December alone, and construction employment down 11,000. “December’s jobs report ended a year of sluggish job growth with the smallest non-recession job gain since 2003,” the group…