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UNF's #1 Student-Run News Source

UNF Spinnaker

UNF's #1 Student-Run News Source

UNF Spinnaker

UNF's #1 Student-Run News Source

UNF Spinnaker

Darvin Nelson

Darvin Nelson, General Assignment Reporter

In grade school, mystery books were the only kind of books I could tolerate. While my peers were reading The Fault in Our Stars, I either had my nose in a Nancy Drew novel or was in the middle of a chapter in Encyclopedia Brown. There was something about the characters’ ability to investigate a situation that I was envious of. So naturally, as I grew up, I gravitated to the idea of working in a student news environment.

Fresh out of high school, during Summer B 2019, I googled if UNF had a student news organization. That’s how I found Spinnaker, a warm nook in the Student Union with a welcoming staff. I started volunteering immediately. Since then, I’ve navigated almost half of the positions in the news department and learned tremendously from each.

I’m a photography major, so for me, combining photography and writing has been a successful recipe for informing others through effective journalism. Although there are challenges here and there that most journalists face, my curious mind keeps bringing me back to journalism, a truly alluring craft.

All content by Darvin Nelson
Graphic by Spinnaker Creative Team.

LIVE: Donald Trump’s Impeachment Trial in Senate

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief February 9, 2021

The former US President, Donald J. Trump, is on trial to determine if he is responsible for the Capitol riots. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtDavmp0Olo _______ For more information or news...

UNF Lend a Wing. Courtesy of Google

Watch the Lend-a-Wing grand opening live!

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief February 5, 2021

Student Government will be hosting the Lend--Wing's grand opening live on Facebook. The process of transferring the food pantry from Hicks Hall to the Student Union has taken a few semesters, but...

Darvin Nelson

MOS: Students react to Lend-a-Wing’s move to the Game Room

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief February 5, 2021

Lend-a-Wing has been moved from Hicks Hall and been merged with the Game Room in order to make it more accessible for students. Ospreys share their opinion on the matter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ibqjOBwhwA&ab_channel=SpinnakerTV Video...

UNF responds to recent increase in COVID-19 cases among students and faculty

UNF responds to recent increase in COVID-19 cases among students and faculty

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief February 2, 2021

  UNF has doubled COVID-19 cases within the span of one week multiple times, and according to the current report, it very nearly happened again. Spinnaker reached out to UNF in response to the...

Photo from CDC

UNF sees almost 100 percent increase in COVID-19 cases

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief February 2, 2021

UNF has gone from 22 COVID-19 cases to 43 cases within a week -- almost hitting a 100 percent increase again.  UNF previously experienced a 100 percent increase over the course of one week in Oct....

M.O.S.: How UNF students feel about Howard the Duck's disappearance

M.O.S.: How UNF students feel about Howard the Duck’s disappearance

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief January 29, 2021

Spinnaker safely roamed the campus to ask UNF students how they feel about Howard the Duck’s disappearance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agC1-kgLMOg&ab_channel=SpinnakerTV

Photo by Anandu Vinod on Unsplash

Severe thunderstorm warning in Northeast Florida; rain, hail, possible tornado

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief January 27, 2021

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, the following counties are under a severe thunderstorm warning until approximately 4:15 p.m.: Southwestern Nassau County, Southeastern Baker...

FILE - In this undated file photo issued by the University of Oxford, a volunteer is administered the coronavirus vaccine developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University, in Oxford, England. New results released Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2020, on the possible COVID-19 vaccine suggest it is safe and about 70% effective. (John Cairns/University of Oxford via AP, File)

COVID-19 vaccine available for UNF faculty over 65 next week

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief January 27, 2021

An on-campus  COVID-19 vaccine clinic will be open for UNF faculty who are over the age 65 to get vaccinated on Tuesday, Feb. 2, and Wednesday, Feb. 3. The vaccinations will take place at the UNF Field...

A light rain falls at the U.S. Capitol as preparations continue prior to the 59th inaugural ceremony for President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris in Washington on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021. (Erin Schaff/The New York Times via AP, Pool)

Live: Biden and Harris Inauguration

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief January 20, 2021

Watch the historical Inauguration ceremony of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris live on the White House's website here, or below. https://youtu.be/C-qYgs_yOXA ____ For more information or news tips, or if...

Graphic by Spinnaker Creative Team.

Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief January 18, 2021

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) was born in Atlanta, Georgia almost a century ago, yet his philosophy and intolerance for economic and racial inequality still live on. Dr. King’s children carry...

Live: U.S. House of Representatives vote on article of impeachment against Trump

Live: U.S. House of Representatives vote on article of impeachment against Trump

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief January 13, 2021

After the attack on the U.S. Capitol, the House of Representatives convenes to vote on an article of impeachment against President Donald Trump. Watch the historic impeachment proceedings live at the...

Scott Bennett named UNF Vice President of Administration and Finance

Scott Bennett named UNF Vice President of Administration and Finance

Darvin Nelson, Editor-in-Chief January 11, 2021

Scott Bennet will begin serving as UNF’s vice president of Administration and Finance starting today, Jan. 11, after serving the role as an interim since early 2020.  “Working for UNF the past...

Supporters of President Donald Trump climb the west wall of the the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

UNF Department of Diversity initiatives shares message on recent Washington D.C. Capitol riots

Darvin Nelson, Interim Editor-In-Chief January 8, 2021

The UNF Department of Diversity Initiatives (D.D.I.) has released a statement on their Instagram regarding the recent riots that breached the Capitol in Washington D.C.  “Each day, we are confronted...

Photo from CDC

Ospreys are required to take the COVID-19 Education Program again

Darvin Nelson, Interim Editor in Chief January 8, 2021

The UNF Dean of Students is requiring all UNF students enrolled in the Spring 2021 semester to take the UNF COVID-19 Education Program. Even if you have taken the Fall 2020 COVID-19 Education Program,...

Photo by Colin McCann.

Campus activities for the Spring 2021 semester

Darvin Nelson, Interim Editor in Chief January 5, 2021

Campus life before 2020 was filled with kayaking, rock climbing and other fun activities, but the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the university to apply limits and regulations to campus facilities in order...

UNF School of Music to showcase G.F. Handel’s ‘Messiah On The Move’

UNF School of Music to showcase G.F. Handel’s ‘Messiah On The Move’

Darvin Nelson, News Editor December 18, 2020

A production of “Messiah On the Move” will be performed virtually by the UNF choral program. The hour-long performance will involve three student choral ensembles, faculty soloists, and the UNF Lawson...

Osprey Village. Photo credit Jonathan Merrin.

UNF Housing requires future residents to be tested on move-in week

Darvin Nelson, News Editor December 18, 2020

To help slow the spread of COVID-19, UNF housing will require all residents planning to live on-campus for the spring 2020 semester to be tested for coronavirus during the week of Jan. 4, 2020.  “All...

UNF alumni Diana Greene, named Florida Superintendent of the Year, shares UNF's impact on her career

UNF alumni Diana Greene, named Florida Superintendent of the Year, shares UNF’s impact on her career

Darvin Nelson, News Editor December 11, 2020

UNF alumni Diana Greene has been named Florida’s 2021 Superintendent of the Year by the Florida Association of District School Superintendents (FADSS). She inspires future educators at UNF to accept...

Duval Christmas tree lighting tradition will be hosted downtown; event will also be shown virtually

Duval Christmas tree lighting tradition will be hosted downtown; event will also be shown virtually

Darvin Nelson, News Editor December 8, 2020

Jacksonville’s 34th annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, usually held at the Landing, will now be held at the James Weldon Johnson Park tonight, Dec. 8 at 6:15 p.m.  Mayor Lenny Curry, who’s...

Image courtesy of Tierra Mallorca via Unsplash.

Jacksonville offers $5.3 million in funds for rent and foreclosure relief; applications open for Duval residents

Darvin Nelson, News Editor December 4, 2020

Early in the year when COVID-19 hit, the unemployment rate reached 14.7%, and millions of Americans lost their jobs and some later lost their homes to eviction or not being able to pay rent. A program...

Photo from Deck the Chairs’ Facebook.

Deck the Chairs holiday beach event

Darvin Nelson, News Editor December 2, 2020

Deck the Chairs is an annual celebration in Jacksonville Beach in which citizens display beautifully decorated lifeguard chairs. People come from across state lines to see these creative chairs. “Free...

Image by Element5 Digital via Usplash.

Orgins of Thanksgiving

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 26, 2020

Many remember Thanksgiving as a heart-warming 24 hours about scarfing down delicious turkey and spending time with family and friends. But there is some controversy about how the warm holiday is portrayed,...

The UNF Bookstore. Photo credit Emily Echevarria.

UNF Bookstore ‘More the Merrier Sale’ on Wednesday

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 23, 2020

The UNF Bookstore will be having a “More the Merrier” cyber sale from Wednesday, Nov. 25 until Monday, Nov. 30.  Gifts, clothing, and accessories will be discounted. Ospreys can save more on...

Open registration for Spring 2021 begins today

Open registration for Spring 2021 begins today

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 23, 2020

Fall semester is coming to a close and it's time for Ospreys to register for spring classes.  Students are encouraged to meet with their advisors in order to plan a sufficient schedule for the next...

July 31, 2019 - Detroit, Michigan, U.S. -   JOE BIDEN and KAMALA HARRIS pose for the photo spray during a commercial break at the second of two Democratic Debates in Detroit hosted by CNN and sanctioned by the DNC.(Credit Image: © Brian Cahn/ZUMA Wire)

What to expect from Biden’s first 100 days in office

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 18, 2020

Featured image courtesy of Brain Cahn/ZUMA Wire via Mother Jones. In January of 2021, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will step into White House and begin their term in office. A president’s first 100...

President-elect Joe Biden listens as Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, speaks about economic recovery at The Queen theater, Monday, Nov. 16, 2020, in Wilmington, Del. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Kamala Harris makes history

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 17, 2020

Featured image by AP Photo/ Andrew Harnik. Kamala Harris has broken boundaries by becoming the U.S. Vice President-elect. Harris will be the first woman, and woman of color to be VP, but as this may...

UNF Thanksgiving food drive ends soon

UNF Thanksgiving food drive ends soon

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 17, 2020

The UNF Psychology Department is collecting non-perishable food items for the Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive.   The drive benefits local families enrolled in Head Start, and will end on Wednesday,...

Enjoy these events for International Education Week

Enjoy these events for International Education Week

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 16, 2020

International Education Week (I.E.W.) starts today, and celebrates the academic and cultural exchange programs worldwide. From Monday, Nov. 16 until Thursday, Nov. 19, UNF will celebrate the week with...

UNF collaborates with Fulda University in Germany

UNF collaborates with Fulda University in Germany

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 12, 2020

The UNF sociology, anthropology, and social work programs will be working with Fulda University of Applied Science in Germany through the Globalized World Program for an intercultural learning opportunity. “We...

UNF honors Veteran's Day

UNF honors Veteran’s Day

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 11, 2020

Featured grapphic by Erika Romanczuk. In honor of Veteran’s Day, UNF President Szymanski will be giving a special message on Instagram (@unfmvrc) today. There will also be an array of honoring events...

The university on planning classes for Spring 2021

The university on planning classes for Spring 2021

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 9, 2020

Ospreys may be eager to know what spring of 2021 may look like, and how the university came to a conclusion for what's best for the school. UNF says they are working hard to create a safe plan for students. “We...

M.O.S.: Osprey thoughts on the election

M.O.S.: Osprey thoughts on the election

Darvin Nelson and Kaitlyn Bowers November 6, 2020

Spinnaker safely ventured on-campus to ask our fellow Ospreys about their thoughts on the presidential election. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UiqBaAQCfmc&ab_channel=UNFSpinnaker Featured image...

Electoral College explained

Electoral College explained

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 3, 2020

When you cast a vote, you’re not really voting for the president, but rather a group of people to vote for them called the Electoral College. Many voters may not know what the Electoral College is, or...

Cow milk and plant-based milk; which is better?

Cow milk and plant-based milk; which is better?

Darvin Nelson, News Editor November 3, 2020

For centuries, humans have been consuming dairy milk, but non-dairy alternatives are on the rise. Both cow milk and plant-based milk have their pros and cons, but which type of milk is best for you to...

Duval judge resigns from vote-counting board after Trump donations revealed

Duval judge resigns from vote-counting board after Trump donations revealed

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 30, 2020

Featured Image of Judge Brent Shore in Duval County Courtroom by Bob Self. A judge resigned as chairman of the Duval County Canvassing Board on Thursday, after uncoverings of his donations to the Trump...

UNF researchers survey urban alligator population

UNF researchers survey urban alligator population

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 28, 2020

A UNF biology team conducted a year-long research study of the population of Jacksonville’s urban alligators. The team wanted to observe how alligators behave in large cities, and found that there are...

Frame from ABC's Spider-man (1967-1969).

Benefits of talking to yourself and when to worry

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 22, 2020

Let’s face it, whether we’re in the shower or home alone for a while, we sometimes exchange a few words with ourselves. So, if you’ve been wondering if it's normal to talk to yourself and crack up...

Downtown Jacksonville Landing View of St.Johns River.

Downtown Jacksonville to host numerous Halloween events

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 21, 2020

Downtown Jacksonville is safely hosting a spooky “Halloweek” with a socially distanced movie screening of the Disney classic “Hocus Pocus”,  food trucks, and more. Jacksonville's new “Halloweek”...

Senator Harris greeting supporters at early voting location. Photo by Heydi Ortiz.

Photos from the Kamala Harris visit in Jacksonville

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 20, 2020

Vice Presidential candidate Kamala Harris visited the UNF campus to campaign early voting within the local community. Spinnaker documented the scene: __ For more information or news tips, or...

Senator Kamala Harris brings campaign to Florida

Senator Kamala Harris brings campaign to Florida

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 19, 2020

Vice Presidential candidate Kamala Harris brings her campaign to Jacksonville to encourage early voting after a pause due to several of her staff testing positive for COVID-19.  Among the first day...

M.O.S.: Osprey opinions on Spring Break's cancellation

M.O.S.: Osprey opinions on Spring Break’s cancellation

Darvin Nelson and Kaitlyn Bowers October 17, 2020

Spinnaker safely ventured on-campus to ask students their opinion on the cancellation of Spring Break. Ospreys had mixed feelings about the cancellation. https://youtu.be/291W3RbFKxc Featured image...

DeSantis appoints UNF instructor to Florida School for the Deaf and Blind BOT

DeSantis appoints UNF instructor to Florida School for the Deaf and Blind BOT

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 16, 2020

Governor DeSantis has appointed UNF Deaf and Interpreter Education instructor June Ann LeFors to the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (FSDB) Board of Trustees (BOT).   “The opportunity to serve...

Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Warning signs and how to get help

Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Warning signs and how to get help

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 15, 2020

Many abusers can seem charming and fun at first, and won't blatantly abuse at the beginning of a relationship. Though, there are some red flags that can occur within the early part of the relationship...

UNF archaeology program recovers various artifacts in Big Talbot Island

UNF archaeology program recovers various artifacts in Big Talbot Island

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 14, 2020

The UNF archaeology program is staunchly digging through the Big Talbot Island this semester and unearthed some amazing artifacts -- including one that’s thousands of years old. UNF Archaeology...

Graduates displaying their customized caps.

Graduation commencement to be held virtually for fall semester

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 13, 2020

Upcoming graduates may be excited to hear that UNF is expected to hold the Fall 2020 commencement celebration virtually on Friday, Dec. 11, according to an Osprey email.  Part of the commencement will...

breaking news graphic

BREAKING: UNF sees 100% increase in student COVID-19 cases: Source? Sports, sorority…

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 13, 2020

Just last week, the university reported 11 positive COVID cases. A week later the number doubled. According to the university’s website, UNF has a staggering 100% increase in student self-reported COVID...

LGBT center kicks off LGBT History Month with numerous special events

LGBT center kicks off LGBT History Month with numerous special events

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 8, 2020

The UNF LGBT Resource Center is celebrating LGBT History Month with some special events to celebrate bisexual, queer, and pansexual communities via Zoom.  #BeBrave / Friday, Oct. 9: A joint event...

Voter registration deadline extended

Voter registration deadline extended

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 6, 2020

Governor DeSantis has extended the voter registration deadline to participate in the 2020 general election after the issues with the voter registration site on Monday evening. Secretary of State Laurel...

"Cobra Kai" review

“Cobra Kai” review

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 6, 2020

Loyal fans of the original 1984 “The Karate Kid” may not be too eager about the spin-off “CobraKai” at first, but it might grow on you. “Cobra Kai” is interesting enough to watch, but certainly...

Florida's Voter registration site fails hours before the deadline

Florida’s Voter registration site fails hours before the deadline

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 6, 2020

Floridians encountered slow responses or error messages on the voter registration site on Oct. 5 -- the registration deadline. Potential voters trying to access the website might have been met with...

Photo by Justin Nedrow.

UNF community saddened by passing UNF adjunct instructor and two former faculty members

Darvin Nelson, News Editor October 1, 2020

Darin Nelson, News Editor Featured image by Justin Nedrow The University notified students and faculty that a UNF adjunct instructor and two former professors have passed away this month, in an Osprey...

Photo from CDC

Governor DeSantis lifts COVID-19 restrictions on businesses statewide

Darvin Nelson, News Editor September 30, 2020

Darvin Nelson, News Editor Governor DeSantis has lifted all COVID-19 restrictions on businesses, restaurants, and bars state-wide. The new executive order allows businesses to operate at full capacity. Local...

Man on the street: Student opinions on Netflix's "Cuties"

Man on the street: Student opinions on Netflix’s “Cuties”

Darvin Nelson and Kaitlyn Bowers September 26, 2020

Spinnaker went around campus to ask fellow students their opinions on Netflix’s French movie Cuties. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSUo_sUP7Mc&ab_channel=UNFSpinnaker Granted all interviewees...

How to not get scammed in your UNF email; UNF IT Security explains phishing emails

How to not get scammed in your UNF email; UNF IT Security explains phishing emails

Darvin Nelson, News Editor September 25, 2020

Do you like fishing? Well phishing is kind of similar, but while you won't catch a monster bass, someone could catch your Instagram password.  Scam emails are really annoying, but unfortunately our...

Featured Image by Nils Stahl via Unsplash.

What your handwriting says about you; the science behind handwriting

Darvin Nelson, News Editor September 16, 2020

Let’s admit it, some students have some pretty child-like handwriting, while others can easily communicate with their gorgeous writing skills that our elementary teachers loved.  So why do some people...

UNF Osprey Sculpture. Photo credit Jonathan Merin.

UNF ranked one of the best national colleges

Darvin Nelson, News Editor September 15, 2020

UNF has been ranked one of the best national universities by the U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 edition of “Best Colleges,” for the second time. UNF has also been ranked among the “Best Regional”...

Remembering Sept. 11, 2001

Remembering Sept. 11, 2001

Darvin Nelson, News Editor September 11, 2020

Featured Image by Spinnaker Creative Team Today marks the anniversary of the tragic Sept. 11, 2001 events. At 8:46a.m., the time the first plane hit the North tower of the World Trade Center, a moment...

Jill Biden takes part in virtual education panel here in Jacksonville

Jill Biden takes part in virtual education panel here in Jacksonville

Darvin Nelson, News Editor September 9, 2020

Jill Biden, potential First Lady of the U.S., held a virtual panel discussion about schools and education here in Jacksonville. The meeting discussed the status of the education system among the pandemic,...

SDS joins Jacksonville protest (photo by Matthew St. Jean).

S.D.S. lists demands for U.N.F. administration

Darvin Nelson September 8, 2020

Darvin Nelson, News Editor U.N.F. Students for a Democratic Society (S.D.S.) released a statement on Facebook consisting of demands for the U.N.F. administration.  The S.D.S. demands are the following: ...

Are you sleeping well?

Are you sleeping well?

Darvin Nelson, News Editor September 4, 2020

Sleep deprivation is no stranger to college students and is surely detrimental to your health. With remote classes and extra free time, students may have been getting much more sleep, but some may also...

UNF and Eckerd College receives $150,000 grant for ocean debris reduction program

UNF and Eckerd College receives $150,000 grant for ocean debris reduction program

Darvin Nelson, News Editor September 2, 2020

UNF and Eckerd College are working together to reduce plastic in the oceans. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) awarded both institutions a $150,000 grant, called “Toward Sustainable...

Free walk-in testing available for UNF students

Free walk-in testing available for UNF students

Darvin Nelson, News Editor August 31, 2020

Starting today, there will be free walk-in COVID-19 testing available for UNF students.  Testing is held in Osprey Landing Building W, in room 100 from Mondays-Thursdays from 9a.m.- 2p.m. Students...

S.D.S. protests unrest in Kenosha and S.D.S. member's arrest

S.D.S. protests unrest in Kenosha and S.D.S. member’s arrest

Darvin Nelson, News Editor August 27, 2020

Today, at the UNF Fine Arts Building, UNF’s Students for a Democratic Society (S.D.S.) protested police brutality regarding the events in Kenosha, Wis. and the arrest of a S.D.S. member there. On...

Sony Gaming Video Games Ps4 Controller Playstation

Stuck on campus? Here are some safe activities to do safely

Darvin Nelson, News Editor August 27, 2020

If you’ve been at UNF this week, you may have noticed that the campus is reminiscent of a ghost town - as if Thanos gave it a little snap. There are still people here and there, but it’s nothing close...

How much has Zoom profited in these past few months and who created it?

How much has Zoom profited in these past few months and who created it?

Darvin Nelson, News Editor August 26, 2020

By now, most students are familiar with the popular video software, Zoom. This white-collar facetime network has become a crucial resource for the world to communicate virtually, and boy did it pay off....

UNF ranked as one of the best regional colleges in the Southeast

UNF ranked as one of the best regional colleges in the Southeast

Darvin Nelson, News Editor August 25, 2020

The Princeton Review has listed UNF in a feature of “2021 Best Colleges: Region by Region.” The publication considers UNF to be academically outstanding and well worth consideration when students are...

Not following UNF COVID-19 guidelines may lead to expulsion from the University

Not following UNF COVID-19 guidelines may lead to expulsion from the University

Darvin Nelson, News Editor August 21, 2020

The UNF Dean of students, Andrea Adams-Manning, shared an important message regarding the enforcement of UNF policies and the consequences of engaging in risky behaviors that risk the health, safety, and...

What happens if you didn't complete the required COVID-19 Education Course?

What happens if you didn’t complete the required COVID-19 Education Course?

Darvin Nelson, News Editor August 19, 2020

If you didn’t know, students were required to take the COVID-19 Education Course through canvas before the August 14 deadline. The University provided this course in order to ensure a more healthy and...

Trump signs executive orders, extending student loan payment pause

Trump signs executive orders, extending student loan payment pause

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor August 14, 2020

Recently, President Trump stated in a memorandum that the federal loan payment pause will be extended through December 31 of this year, meaning students won’t have to pay loans until 2021. Earlier, this...

Annual Perseid meteor shower peaks soon

Annual Perseid meteor shower peaks soon

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor August 11, 2020

The annual Perseid meteor shower will peak in the pre-dawn hours of August 12 and 13. The week after, from midnight to dawn any morning, should produce a few meteors as well, according to NASA. Meteors...

Today is Son and Daughter Day?

Today is Son and Daughter Day?

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor August 11, 2020

You’ve heard of Mother’s day, Father’s day, and maybe even Grandparent’s day - but did you know that there’s a Son and Daughter day?  The origins of this day go back 1930s Missouri, according...

How to vote by mail

How to vote by mail

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor August 10, 2020

Presidential elections happen every four years, but this time it’s gonna be a little different. Coronavirus has altered our reality and caused us to make many changes in everyday life, but now it has...

Governor Desantis discusses the importance of sports in this upcoming school year during COVID with Mayor Curry and local sports coaches at UNF arena

Governor Desantis discusses the importance of sports in this upcoming school year during COVID with Mayor Curry and local sports coaches at UNF arena

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor August 6, 2020

Governor Desantis met with Mayor Curry and other local officials at UNF for a roundtable discussion about sports in schools, for the upcoming school year, amid coronavirus. “When we went to distance...

Governor Desantis is meeting with Mayor Curry and other officials at UNF for a roundtable discussion

Governor Desantis is meeting with Mayor Curry and other officials at UNF for a roundtable discussion

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor August 6, 2020

https://twitter.com/CityofJax/status/1291392129776967680 Governor Desantis is meeting with Mayor Curry and other local officials at UNF for a roundtable discussion about distance learning and the status...

The Museum of Science and History presents "Cosmic Concerts;" hosts daily planetarium shows

The Museum of Science and History presents “Cosmic Concerts;” hosts daily planetarium shows

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor August 5, 2020

Jacksonville’s Museum of Science and History (M.O.S.H.) will be hosting a sensory entertainment show filled with “laser lights, high-def images and digital sound collide to create a Cosmic Concert.” Tickets...

Upcoming Sunray Cinema drive-in movie showings

Upcoming Sunray Cinema drive-in movie showings

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor August 4, 2020

Jacksonville’s Sunray Cinema will be hosting a few drive-in movie showings this week.  Inside Out (2015): August 6 - Gates open at 7p.m. / Showing at 8p.m. Mandy (2018):  August 6 - Gates...

How do hurricanes get their names?

How do hurricanes get their names?

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor August 3, 2020

Matthew, Irma, Dorian, and now Isaias are all names of hurricanes that have trailed through Florida, but where do their names come from? “Using names for these storms makes it much easier for meteorologists,...

Trump intends to depart from the World Health Organization; effects of leaving the Paris Climate Agreement

Trump intends to depart from the World Health Organization; effects of leaving the Paris Climate Agreement

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 31, 2020

Since 1948, The World Health Organization (W.H.O.) has been working globally to promote health and improve medical research and access. On July 7, this year, Trump formally announced his intention to depart...

Photo by Camille Shaw

Mayor Curry proposes to expand J.S.O. budget despite citizen demands to defund police; S.D.S. responds

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 30, 2020

Mayor Lenny Curry has proposed a budget of 1.34 billion for the upcoming fiscal year.  Jacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams wants $6 million more dollars for the J.S.O. budget, making a total of $481...

The outside of UNF's Student Wellness Center. (Jonathan Merin/Spinnaker)

UNF Student Wellness Center will reopen for Fall semester

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 30, 2020

The Student Wellness Complex (S.W.C.) plans to reopen, in phases, on August 17, when Fall classes begin. The S.W.C. has some guidelines that are expected to be followed: Prior to using the center,...

State of the World: Climate change and CO2 emissions; Apple plans to become carbon-neutral by 2030?

State of the World: Climate change and CO2 emissions; Apple plans to become carbon-neutral by 2030?

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 29, 2020

With everything going on this year so far, climate change hasn’t really been on the forefront of news, so how is the earth doing? The IPCC (Intergovernmental  Panel on Climate Change), a group of...

UNF launches self-screening tool

UNF launches self-screening tool

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 28, 2020

Unf has launched a self-screening tool to help students and faculty keep track of their health.  The self-screening tool can be accessed through the Safe Ospreys App and online through the Daily Self-Screening...

Netflix's "Cursed" review

Netflix’s “Cursed” review

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 24, 2020

Featured image courtesy of That Hashtag Show. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLTdy6PfotA There are many shows and movies produced about the tales of Camelot, but they all generally follow the same...

Is coronavirus testing accurate?

Is coronavirus testing accurate?

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 23, 2020

In the past few months coronavirus cases have surged in Florida, with over 380, 000 confirmed COVID cases as of today.  Many are rushing to the testing centers to know whether or not they have...

The outside of UNF's Student Wellness Center. (Jonathan Merin/Spinnaker)

Update on UNF staff returning for work on campus

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 20, 2020

Last week, UNF shared an update on returning to campus in the fall. They have emailed another update specific to UNF employees returning to campus: “To prepare for a successful reopening in the fall,...

Brooks College of Health

Update on returning to campus in fall; new self-screening app; Boathouse closed

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 17, 2020

UNF has emailed an update on the status of returning to campus in the Fall. Here are some highlights from the text: Shared Responsibility: “A successful return to campus will depend on all of our...

RNC

Jacksonville attorneys files lawsuit against RNC

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 14, 2020

Last week, multiple Jacksonville Attorneys -along with several residents and business owners- filed a lawsuit against the city, the Trump campaign, and the Republican National Committee. The lawsuit was...

See rare Neowise comet before it leaves for almost 7,000 years

See rare Neowise comet before it leaves for almost 7,000 years

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 14, 2020

Neowise is a rare comet that was located 194 million miles from the sun on March 27 of this year. The comet was named after the Near Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer, the mission that discovered...

UNF creates the nation's first MedNexus; $6 Million in funding from Florida state budget

UNF creates the nation’s first MedNexus; $6 Million in funding from Florida state budget

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 9, 2020

UNF has created the nation’s first MedNexus, a “university-based medical and healthcare nexus.” The University sent out an email announcing the creation, which was approved $6 million in funding...

UNF alumni singer, Emorja Roberson, shares his musical experiences

UNF alumni singer, Emorja Roberson, shares his musical experiences

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 6, 2020

Featured Image from Emorja Roberson Facebook. Emorja Roberson is a UNF alumni that graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Music Degree in Vocal Performance. According to his website, “As of May 2017,...

2019 "Semester send off", Fireworks Show

Where do fireworks come from and how do they impact the environment?

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 3, 2020

Lots of Americans will celebrate the Fourth of July by illuminating the night sky with sparklers, smoke bombs, roman candles, ground spinners, and many other types of firecrackers. We’ve all seen different...

Swooptroupe presents "The Addams Family," a musical comedy

Swooptroupe presents “The Addams Family,” a musical comedy

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor July 2, 2020

Last year, the Swooptroupe put on a great performance of The Sound of Music. This season, the Swooptroupe presents The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy. Audition dates will be on September 12...

Cybersecurity and the tech industry in light of COVID-19

Cybersecurity and the tech industry in light of COVID-19

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor June 26, 2020

Technology plays a huge role in today’s world as many aspects of life, such as academics and entertainment, are being moved online and are cyber-connected in some way. Nimit Maru, Co-founder of Fullstack...

What will it take to host the R.N.C.?

What will it take to host the R.N.C.?

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor June 26, 2020

The Republican National Convention (R.N.C) is expected to be held here in Jacksonville this fall from August, 24 through August, 27. How much will it cost Jacksonville, and what will it take to host it?  The...

Blast from the Past: Sky High

Blast from the Past: Sky High

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor June 24, 2020

After recently watching Sky High again, I was met with overwhelming nostalgia. Characters, such as Mr. Medulla, that I completely forgot about and scenes that were as great as I remember were in action...

History of Juneteenth

History of Juneteenth

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor June 19, 2020

Today is the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth, a national holiday that celebrates the end of slavery. In light of recent events, such as the BLM movement and the retraction of confederate statues, the...

The future of movie theaters amid COVID-19

The future of movie theaters amid COVID-19

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor June 17, 2020

Going to the movies is one of those activities that require being around strangers for an extended period of time, so it doesn't seem like the best idea in the midst of COVID-19. The coronavirus has threatened...

The Women's Center host "Let's Talk About It: We Can't Breathe"

The Women’s Center host “Let’s Talk About It: We Can’t Breathe”

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor June 10, 2020

Last week, the UNF Women's Center held a public Zoom meeting where students and faculty could discuss racial injustice and trauma. Dr. Rudy Jamison (The Center for Urban Education and Policies) and Dr....

Official BSU statement to the Osprey community

Official BSU statement to the Osprey community

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor June 10, 2020

UNF's Black Student Union (BSU) executive board and committee released an official statement regarding recent racial injustices: "To the University of North Florida Students, Administration, Alumni,...

Blast from the Past: Heroes

Blast from the Past: Heroes

Darvin Nelson, Features Editor June 9, 2020

Featured image from sreenrant.com. Heroes ran from 2006-2010, and every episode is awe-inspiring.  A group of people, from all over the world, begin to realize their extraordinary abilities...

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