The Florida legislature meets for another Special Session on illegal immigration in the state. A state lawmaker recently introduced the CROWN Act, but previous attempts to pass that legislation banning discrimination against hairstyles have failed in Florida. An Orlando stylist and loctician shares how race-based hair discrimination has impacted her career and her clients. We visit the Maitland Chocolate Factory ahead of Valentine's Day. We discuss the science and reasons why people savor some flavors and dislike others.

U.S. Representative Maxwell Frost led a delegation of Congress members to the U.S. Treasury after Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency accessed federal agency computer systems and information. Central Florida Public Media’s Joe Byrnes talks with area clergy about potential immigration raids in houses of worship. A One Small Step Conversation on segregation in Orange County schools. We travel back to 1800’s Central Florida when the infamous Barber-Mizell family feud began that would last well into the 20th Century.

Federal immigration policy is shifting at a breakneck pace under the Trump Administration, and the threat of mass deportations has Central Floridians gravely concerned. Hear from advocates for immigrant communities throughout our region including an Orlando family who fled Venezuela to escape life threatening conditions now facing the reality of being sent back and a DACA student who fears for her academic future. We meet a single mother who is pursuing her collegiate dreams with the help of a childcare program at Rollins College that makes that path much more accessible.

Governor Ron DeSantis says he will veto a bill that was passed this week during a special session of the Florida Legislature. Central Florida Public Media’s Rick Brunson updates us on the special session focused on immigration reform. A new proposal to support small businesses in Orlando in need of financial support before more are forced to shut down. The 2025 Pro Bowl Games are at Camping World Stadium this week. Orlando resident and former NFL player Samuel Barrington gives his perspective on the value of the flag football game and the new events happening this year.

While Florida lawmakers are in their special session this week focused on immigration, Central Florida Public Media’s Rick Brunson updates us on their actions and agenda. Deportation raids have begun in South Florida, and Central Floridian immigrants and business owners are waiting for the raids. The Trump Administration’s pending freeze on all federal grants pending review could impact small businesses here. The 2025 ZORA! Festival season honors the legacy of poet, activist and Eatonville resident Zora Neale Hurston.

Central Florida communities are voting on whether to keep adding fluoride to the drinking water to prevent tooth decay or ending the practice of fluoridation. Engage Producer Richard Copeland did a deep dive into Central Florida blood donation. Many comedians melt down when the audience engages their cell phones instead of the performance, but Central Florida resident Larry Fulford encourages it in the stand-up comedy show he created.

Opioid deaths declined last year in Florida, but despite the positive news, advocates for those suffering from addiction still have a steep hill to climb. Engage attends an event in Sanford that shines a light on the human trafficking that takes place right under our noses. An Ormond Beach entrepreneur sees a future where people pair soda with their meals the same way they do with wine.

As the nation prepares for another presidential transition, Governor DeSantis calls for a special session of the Florida Legislature to address illegal immigration immediately, and there is some pushback from republican leadership. Volusia County’s Chief Medical Examiner teaches us about the innovative techniques helping his office resolve unsolved cases and identify remains. As a national ban on TikTok looms, an Orlando content creator shares how the popular video sharing app helps build brands and small businesses.

Central Florida Public Media’s Brendan Byrne brings us up to date on the delayed Blue Origin launch from Cape Canaveral. A former undercover officer for the CIA from Lake County shares her secrets to overcoming obstacles and escaping your comfort zone. How The Beatles officially ended in Central Florida. John Lennon’s romantic companion May Pang talks about her time in Orlando with him and her photo exhibition of their time together showing in Ormond Beach.

An AdventHealth ER doctor explains why Floridians can have a difficult time adjusting to cold weather compared to others in colder climates. Carolyn Moor founded Modern Widows Club to create the network of long-term support and widow care she couldn’t find for herself following the death of her loving husband. A couple authored a new book highlighting attractions in Central Florida outside of the theme parks that may even surprise locals.