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Coverage on Epic Universe at WFTV Channel 9

What did I do for WFTV during the EPIC Universe Opening?

As part of WFTV Channel 9’s coverage of Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, I coordinated newsroom logistics and led multi-platform content operations. I worked closely with the on-site reporter to manage scheduling, ensure timely arrivals at media events, and provide all essential background details and updates throughout the day.
In addition to newsroom coordination, I oversaw WFTV’s digital and social media coverage — planning, publishing, and timing every post, video, and article to align with breaking updates and audience engagement goals. From briefing teams on-site to maintaining the content flow across platforms, I helped ensure that WFTV delivered accurate, engaging, and cohesive coverage of one of the most anticipated theme park expansions in the world.

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Led and produced WFTV Channel 9’s digital and social coverage of Universal’s Epic Universe, from on-site coordination to story rollout across all platforms.

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Epic Universe opens, local businesses brace for boost

ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal’s new Epic Universe theme park officially opened on May 22, and local business owners say the economic impact is already beginning to take shape.

The expansion is expected to bring 17,000 new jobs and millions of additional visitors to Central Florida.

For small businesses, that could mean a major boost in foot traffic, spending, and long-term growth.

“Anytime you bring in that kind of tourism, the entire area benefits,” said Richard Harary, the CEO of MacroBaby and...
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Local content creator gives an inside look at Universal’s Epic Universe on grand opening day

ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal’s Epic Universe officially opened its gates Thursday, ushering in a new era of immersive theme park experiences.

Epic Universe is the first new theme park in 24 years.

Over the past few weeks, fans have been getting sneak peeks thanks to early previews and the help of social media influencers sharing insider tips and first impressions.

One standout voice among them is a local content creator and theme park enthusiast who’s been attending previews at Epic Universe and...
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EPIC Universe: Magical dining at the Ministry of Magic

ORLANDO, Fla. — Visitors to the The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic won’t just experience spell duels and wand battles—they’ll also have a chance to try magical French cuisine set in wizarding surroundings.

Universal said the Ministry of Magic offers wizard-worthy cuisine with French style.

The café captures the charm of wizarding Paris, serving French-inspired cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

People will have the choice to eat indoors or enjoy an outdoor seat along...
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Epic Universe: A new adventure awaits at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is expanding deeper into the wizarding world with an all-new land themed to the Ministry of Magic, blending British and French magical worlds in one.

Universal said they are bringing the life wizarding Paris from the “Fantastic Beasts” film and the British Ministry of Magic from the “Harry Potter” films.

As guests walk through the portal, they are instantly transported to 1920s ‘Muggle’ Paris, where they will walk through the Phoenix Arch, wh...
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Exclusive wizarding merchandise launches at EPIC Universe’s Ministry of Magic

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Ministry of Magic shops released exclusive wizarding outfits, and guests will be able to find new wizarding robes and wands.

A new collection of interactive wands is available only in this Harry Potter land, including wands styled after French Aurors and Ministry officials.

The wands, inspired by the “Fantastic Beasts” film series, will feature carvings and crystals.

Fans can take home Ministère des Affaires Magiques robes, official Ministry pins, enchanted prophecy orb re...
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“It’s Alive”: Dark Universe, home to the classic monsters

ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, Dark Universe, invites guests to step into the world of the classic Universal Monsters, with thrilling attractions and spooky encounters that bring the legends to life.

According to Universal, the legacy of Universal Monsters is over 100 years old.

As guests approach the portal, a spire cracks with electricity, revealing how the dark energy is gathered.

Some monsters, such as the Bride of Frankenstein and the Invisible Man, will roam the land...
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Universal’s Epic Universe: 9 details for your visit

ORLANDO, Fla. — As the highly anticipated opening of Universal’s Epic Universe approaches on May 22, there are a few key details to keep in mind.

This immersive theme park promises over 10 thrilling attractions and a wide variety of dining options across its five uniquely themed lands.

Epic Universe typically opens at 9:00 AM. Early Park Admission is available starting May 23, 2025, for eligible guests.

2. Parking & Transportation

Parking is available at 1001 Epic Boulevard, Orlando, FL 3281...
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Dark delights: Dining in Dark Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. — Dark Universe’s gothic streets don’t just promise monsters and mayhem—they also serve up an array of darkly inspired dishes and drinks that immerse guests deeper into Universal’s classic horror legacy.

Guests can indulge in a range of “stake” food and beverages.

Dining venues across Dark Universe feature gothic decor and monster-inspired details, providing a spooky scene drawn straight from monster lore:

This mysterious tavern invites guests to enjoy a hearty meal surrounded b...
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Dark Universe: Where to Find Monstrous Merch in Darkmoor Village at Epic Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. — From monster makeovers to mystic trinkets, Dark Universe is packed with store locations that sell items of Universal’s classic horror legacy.

Universal said guests will be able to step inside the former home of Dr. Pretorius, which is now filled with “macabre collectibles”. Expect monster-themed props and horror decor. Right next door, the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience. Here, skilled artisans provide guests with transformative face makeup, allowing them to embody iconic Uni...
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‘We have dragons’: Experience How to Train Your Dragon at Epic Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. — Get ready to soar through the skies of Berk at one of the five lands at Epic Universe. How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, where Vikings and fire-breathing dragons exist together in harmony.

Guests will be able to enjoy the experience of flying with dragons in a world based on the “How to Train Your Dragon” collection of films.

Visitors will have the chance to meet the icon duo: Hiccup and Toothless. But guests should keep an eye out for other characters from the movie, su...
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Step Inside the Game: Experience the Magic of Super Nintendo World

ORLANDO, Fla. — Super Nintendo World isn’t just a land—it’s like stepping inside the game itself.

The moment guests walk through the giant green pipe, they’re transported into a living version of the Mushroom Kingdom.

The land is alive with towering Piranha Plants, spinning gold coins, and Bowser’s Castle in the landscape.

The land is designed to be fully immersive with interactive elements such as the Power-Up Bands, which guests can collect coins, unlock keys, and battle Bowser Jr. You can...
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Taste the Mushroom Kingdom at Super Nintendo World

ORLANDO, Fla. — Super Nintendo World isn’t just all fun and games—it’s a foodie adventure, too.

The game theme world has themed dining throughout, bringing iconic Nintendo worlds to life.

The main dining location is Toadstool Café, where Chef Toad serves up dishes straight from the Mushroom Kingdom.

Guests can eat a Mario Burger topped with mushrooms and stamped with Mario’s iconic “M” logo.

Desserts include the Question Block Tiramisu and Piranha Plant Caprese.

The dining location also fea...
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Merchandise at Epic Universe’s Isle of Berk, shop for Viking gear

ORLANDO, Fla. — As guests step into Isle of Berk, they will be greeted with Viking villages perched on rocky cliffs.

One of five lands at Epic Universe, How to Train Your Dragon- Isle of Brek, is alive with the sights and sounds of dragons soaring.

Guests can enjoy the experience of flying with dragons in a world based on the “How to Train Your Dragon” collection of films.

As you journey through Berk, guests will have a chance to encounter characters like Hiccup, Astrid, and Toothless.

Wheth...
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EPIC Universe: Exclusive Nintendo merchandise powers up

ORLANDO, Fla. — There are rides to race, meals to devour, and worlds to explore, but at Super Nintendo World, which makes it seem like you are in a game, is the Power-Up Band, an interactive bracelet that lets you step inside the game and become part of the action.

These colorful wristbands come in designs inspired by fan-favorite characters like Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, Yoshi, and Daisy.

Making an exclusive debut at Epic Universe are two brand-new designs: Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong, availa...
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‘We have dragons’: Experience How to Train Your Dragon at Epic Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. — Get ready to soar through the skies of Berk at one of the five lands at Epic Universe. How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, where Vikings and fire-breathing dragons exist together in harmony.

Guests will be able to enjoy the experience of flying with dragons in a world based on the “How to Train Your Dragon” collection of films.

Visitors will have the chance to meet the icon duo: Hiccup and Toothless. But guests should keep an eye out for other characters from the movie, su...
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Eat Like a Viking: Where to find dining at the Isle of Berk in Epic Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Isle of Berk, a coastal village where dragons soar above and Viking life thrives below.

One of the five lands at EPic Universe is based on DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon films.

And this immersive land at the park brings the animated world to life with soaring coasters, dragon encounters, and playful training camps for young Vikings.

As guests explore the land of Berk, you can find dining options based on the movie. Universal said the dining is also staying true to Vi...
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The evolution of Florida’s iconic theme parks: a journey through time

ORLANDO, Fla. — As we approach the opening of Epic Universe, WFTV has put together a list of Central Florida’s theme parks.

Don’t miss out on the chance to watch archive Channel 9 coverage of these beloved parks, showcasing their history and highlights.

Also stay tuned for all the latest updates as we get closer to this thrilling new addition to the world of theme park.

Founded by Owen Godwin near Orlando, Gatorland is a wildlife preserve known for hundreds of alligators and crocodiles. Visit...
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Epic Universe Dark Universe, explore the village of Darkmoor

ORLANDO, Fla. — Darkmoor is a land of lore and legend, where Universal’s iconic monsters, like the Invisible Man, lurk in the shadows.

Alysha Linton, a Universal Orlando Resort tour guide, explains, “It is present day, but this village has been around since the 5th century.”

According to Universal, the legacy of Universal Monsters is over 100 years old.

This ominous and mythical world also hosts Victoria Frankenstein’s monsters, and guests will have the chance to explore Dr. Framelstein’s hom...
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“Here We Go!”: Super Nintendo World opens at Epic Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. — At Epic Universe’s Super Nintendo World, guests will be teleported through the iconic green pipe as they step inside a video game.

Park officials said, “The vibrant land combines iconic Nintendo characters with Universal’s renowned craft of creating innovative theme park experiences to deliver a multi-sensory environment where guests can experience the fun and adventure of Nintendo games in a whole new way.”

The area will also feature dining, shopping, and interactive experienc...
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Discover “How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk” at Epic Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. — Get ready to soar through the skies of Berk at one of the five lands in Epic Universe.

How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, where Vikings and fire-breathing dargons exit together in harmony.

Guests will be able to enjoy the experience of flying with dragons in a world based on the “How to Train Your Dragon” collection of films.

“How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk” will have three rides: Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, Dargon Racer’s Rally and Fyre Drill.

According to Universa...
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Embark on an epic adventure at Universal EPIC Universe, explore Celestial Park

ORLANDO, Fla. — When guests arrive at the theme park, they will encounter Chronos, the iconic symbol of the Universal Epic Universe that serves as the gateway into this exciting adventure.

The first world visitors’ experience is Celestial Park, the cosmic heart of the park, featuring tree-lined walkways, moving fountains, and a variety of attractions, including the Stardust Racers and the Constellation Carousel.

Visitors also have the chance to explore different worlds such as the Wizarding Wo...
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WFTV begins exclusive coverage ahead of Epic Universe’s opening

ORLANDO, Fla. — It’s one of the most anticipated theme park expansions in Central Florida, which will open next week, and WFTV Channel 9 is your home for everything Epic Universe.

This week, our team is bringing you in-depth coverage of Universal Orlando Resort’s new theme park: Epic Universe.

Channel 9 will show you sneak peeks inside its five immersive worlds.

We’ll take you inside Super Nintendo World, where fans can step into the vibrant world of Mario and friends, and into The Wizarding...
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EPIC Universe: Where to dine in Celestial Park 

ORLANDO, Fla. — As visitors step through the Chronos portal into the EPIC Universe, they are welcomed into Celestial Park, the cosmic heart of the theme park.

Celestial Park will have more than 15 different dining options, ranging from full-service restaurants to quick-service locations.

Full-Service Restaurant

Atlantic Restaurant: The restaurant is near a pool named for the Roman sea god Neptune, specializing in seafood and steak. Universal said the restaurant is surrounded by glass walls th...
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Journey to a Celestial Park between worlds at Universal’s Epic Universe

ORLANDO, Fla. — When visitors first arrive at the theme park, they will walk through the Chronos, the iconic symbol of the Universal Epic Universe.

As guests begin their day, they will pass through the Chronos portal, which serves as the gateway into Epic.

The first world that visitors will experience is Celestial Park. This area combines rides, stores, and dining, making it the cosmic heart of the Universal Epic Universe.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore tree-lined walkways and mo...

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