The Midtown Press - February/March 2023 Issue

Artwork By Joyce HAyes

PortrAit of HArriet tuBmAn

Dates to Know Press THE Midtown

FEBRUARY

EDITOR’S CHAIR

Andjust like that, here we are in February 2023! The last time I sat to write this section was late November of last year which seems so long ago. This just confirms to me, as the old saying goes, "time waits for no man!" While I won't go through a year in review, 2022 was pivotal for many people, including me. This issue is a personal achievement to me as it marks one full year (six issues) of The Midtown Press since taking over the publishing of the paper. Like many of you, I was faced with ups and downs, but overall, I am very proud of what we were able to accomplish. I say "we" because there is no way I can take credit for doing this alone. I want to say a very special thank you to every advertiser, despite the size, who placed and ad. The fact is, without our advertisers, there is no Midtown Press (period). To this day, I still am amazed when I get phone calls from random numbers wanting to place an ad in the paper. That signifies that people believe in the impact that the paper can have. As I tell anyone who asks about the paper's mission, my job is to share the good of what is happening in Pine Hills and surrounding neighborhoods by sharing the stories of people and places that work in, and, to support the community

Last year I mixed things up and sought out ideas and articles from others. Most prominently featured were contributions from Thomas Coston, who provided sports and entertainment content, and Barbara Chandler, who focused on the Arts. Barbara and I worked so well together that she now wears another hat, Associate Editor. Welcome to the team Barbara!

During the first year of operating the paper, I wanted to feel comfortable completing all the tasks required to publish the paper. I have managed every aspect of the paper, from design and layout to the print process and distribution of the paper.

However, the growth and expansion that The Midtown Press can experience requires help. Too many times, entrepreneurs can face burnout or even fail because they neglect to do that one simple thing, ask for help. I am trying to let that not be me. I am proud of the progress that has been made thus far and look forward optimistically to the future of The Midtown Press. I am looking forward to the day when I can refer to my "staff!"

There are so many opportunities I see for the paper. However, I always want to maintain sight of the fact that, first and foremost, this is a communitycentered publication. With that being said, I look forward to forming new partnerships, engaging new advertisers, and telling more of the stories of our people. So let this serve as an invitation. If we have never connected and you have a story, topic, or idea, and of course, the need to place an ad, or say hello, please reach out. I want to know. You can email me at glen@themidtownpress.com.

I believe that a growth opportunity for the paper is digitally. Please rest assured that the printed copy will not go away as I am a huge proponent of print. However, I do recognize that the current format of being published bi-monthly, not to mention the space limitations, it leaves several stories untold. I envision the creation of a revamped online presence that complements the printed paper and can be more responsive to current news and events happening around us.

The next few months are going to be a lesson in patience as I can tend to rush the process. I know Rome wasn't built in one day, so I must continue to take the time and trust the process. I look forward to sharing more with you.

Press THE Midtown

The little paper with the big picture!

Publisher EJP North, LLC.

Editor Glen R. Providence

Associate Editor Barbara Chandler

All materials contained herein (unless otherwise noted) are owned and copyrighted by EJP North, LLC and Glen R. Providence. No material may be reproduced in any manner or form without the written consent of the publishers or their designated representative.

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“The little paper with the big picture”

Pine Hills Community Council Oath of Office Ceremony

On Tuesday, January 10th, 2023, the Pine Hills Community Council held its 2023 Oath of Office Ceremony at the Pine Hills Community Center. The "changing-of-the-guard event" saw the organization's leadership change from outgoing President Patricia Rumph to Sandra Fatmi-Hall. The Honorable Monique H. Worrell, State Attorney, administered the ceremony.

The Pine Hills Community Council is a volunteer civic organization that advocates for the people of Pine Hills. Board members and Directors-at-Large are committed to making a difference through community action.

1st Vice President Dr. Latanya Nichols sshared some exciting news regarding a grant for which the Council applied. The group received word in December 2022 that they were being awarded a $5,000 grant aimed at focusing on tree health and tree canopy in the unincorporated Pine Hills area. The Council is proud of being a grant recipient and looks forward to working with The Nature Conservancy, and its partners (Davey Trees, Infinite Zion Farms, and IDEAS For Us) collectively on the Treesilience Orlando Metro Program 2023! Mrs. Nichols encourages residents and citizens, whether they live in the Pine Hills community or not, to get involved and to be part of this exciting journey as we work together to positively impact the change we want to see in our neighborhoods and community.

2023 Pine Hills Community Council Officers

President - Sandra Fatmi-Hall

1st Vice President - Dr. Latanya Nichols

2nd Vice President - Melissa Service

Secretary - Bertina Busch

Treasurer - Evangeline Richardson

Trustees

Noel Martin

Pastor Joseph 'Joey' Boston

Dennis Hall

Patricia Rumph, Past President

Directors-at-Large

Kenneth Dwyer

Dr. Idler Bonhomme

Erica Atterbury

Julien Serrano-O’Neil

How do you define success?

Being able to walk in your own unique purpose confidently and making an impact that benefits something larger than oneself.

What are some key highlights in your business career?

GLB Media Group being awarded the 2019 Minority & Women-Owned Business Enterprise Supplier of the Year Award.

Leading the creation of the Orlando Magic's "Magic of Mentoring Black Male Youth Summit".

Being selected as the Orlando Business Journal's 2023 Women Who Means Business Honoree

Is there someone who has had a significant impact with the work you're now doing? There is a never-ending scroll of names as I am grateful for everyone that has helped me on this journey. I have to start with my parents, Ronald and Deborah Graham who worked to raise me in a safe, loving environment and placed a priority on the importance of education

How do you spend your down time?

I love dancing. My line name was "The Dancer" for Delta and I am good for shutting down any stroll competition. I am also a dope rap artist and writer. One day, Jay Z or Cash Money Records will allow "Tria G" freestyle time in the studio.

What advice would you share with someone having self-doubts in starting their own business?

Take the time to understand why you desire to start a business. Running a business is really hard work. The beauty of it is you will labor in what you love to do, however, there will be responsibilities you will not like to do. If you are all in, take the first step in confidence.

How do you define success?

My definition of success is being able to confidently fulfill your purpose in life without compromising your values.

What are some key highlights in your business career?

Engaging over 100 men over the past two years through Route 7 Orlando’s Annual Men and Mental Health Speaker Series.

Positively impacting the lives of hundreds of Central Florida men through Route 7's Accountability Meetings.

Creating an opportunity for black men to change the narrative of our perception in society by serving as mentors to young men.

Is there someone who has had a significant impact with the work you're now doing?

My mother has been the biggest influence in the work that I’ve been committed to throughout my career. Growing up, I never understood that the exposure she provided me with would lead me to where I’m at today.

How do you spend your down time?

I enjoy spending time with my wife and traveling internationally. We recently welcomed our first child Lennox this past January and I look forward to getting some stamps on his passport to let him know that the world is his playground.

What advice would you share with someone having self-doubts in starting their own business?

We are all blessed with intuition! If your intuition or “gut feeling” is telling you to pursue your passion, don’t block that blessing. Know that times will be hard and that doubt is inevitable, but as long as you remain consistent and always remember why you started, you will find fulfillment.

President GLB Media Group President Route 7 Orlando Inc.

Founder & Chief Financial Strategist Centrus Financial Strategies Owner House of Sweat

How do you define success?

Creating something that you love and being able to transform it into a sustainable business model while being a help to others.

What are some key highlights in your business career?

I have helped people change their lives by losing 30, 40, and 50 pounds. Health is wealth and my passion is helping people become a better version of themselves.

Is there someone who has had a significant impact with the work you're now doing?

That's an easy one, my wife! She’s is always my sounding board and backbone.

How do you spend your down time?

I love to cook. I’m a fat kid at heart. So I love to find ways to make healthy and tasty food for my family.

What advice would you share with someone having self-doubts in starting their own business?

Just know that it will never feel like it's the right time. Focus on taking consistent action. Also don't think you have to know everything 100% before you begin. You will learn along the way.

How do you define success?

Growing the impact of educating individuals on how to create a successful retirement in the 2nd chapter of their dreams.

What are some key highlights in your business career?

Building a comprehensive, tax-wise financial planning firm from zero to close to 300 clients in the US, with assets under management of over $150 million dollars.

Is there someone who has had a significant impact with the work you're now doing?

Yes, my parents. I am the son of Haitian immigrants who could have used good planning for their retirement. They did OK on their own, but as the youngest of nine kids, I watched them work hard every day to support our family. I spent my childhood wishing I could help my parents secure the retirement they so richly deserved.

How do you spend your down time?

On my down time, when there is down time, I love working with community organizations to provide financial literacy and foundational saving and retirement workshops.

What advice would you share with someone having self-doubts in starting their own business?

Look before you leap! Do as much research as you can on the product/service you plan to provide. Know the market you plan to serve and get crystalclear on what makes it unique.

How do you define success?

I define success as growth and sustainability in environments where I live work and play.

What are some key highlights in your business career?

There have been several, but the ones that stick out are:

• Co-Founding Hebni Nutrition

• Writing nine successful cookbooks

• Visiting Michelle Obama at The White House

• Winning the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Medallion Award

Is there someone who has had a significant impact with the work you're now doing?

My parents and my aunt who is currently 99 years old and spent her life educating communities on how to prepare foods as a Home Economist.

How do you spend your down time?

I love to cook, sew and go deep-sea fishing.

What advice would you share with someone having self-doubts in starting their own business?

Never give up, create a plan and understand where the competition is, stay focused, and put God first in everything you do.

How do you define success?

To me, success is having consistency, dedication & perseverance. Also know that there is NO success without failure.

What are some key highlights in your business career?

• Becoming a local & national urban farm studied by 15 universities and international students

• Establishing partnerships through organizations including Hebni Nutrition, City of Orlando, IKEA, Rollins College & St. Thomas University, UCF & Valencia College.

• Creatig a black-owned urban farm & food hub during COVID-19 and supplying fresh produce to the Parramore community and other residents.

Is there someone who has had a significant impact with the work you're now doing?

Yes, my Father. I was always a daddy's boy. I lost my Father to prostate cancer at age 59. The cancer was at Stage 4. Doctors gave my father five years to live but he changed to an alkaline based diet and lived ten years.

How do you spend your down time?

I never have down time. One day I hope to spend time with family, read a book and go fishing. I played alto saxaphone video games and I'm an R/C car enthusiast.

What advice would you share with someone having self-doubts in starting their own business?

Do it. Dive in. Don't think, act on it and START! Stay the course and don't wait on family or friend's approval. Expect failure, learn, and grow from it!

Co-Founder & Director of Agency Operations Hebni Nutrition Consultants

Co-Founder & President Infinite Zion Farms

The 2nd Annual Pine Hills Parade was an impressive showing of sights and sounds. The parade, which took place on December 10th, was jointly organized by the Pine Hills Safe Neighborhood Partnership, Pine Hills Community Council, and Pine Hills Seniors. Congratulations to everyone involved in planning the parade. Next year's parade promises to be even bigger and better!

Born in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands, Barbara Chandler is a long-time Central Florida resident. She has worked for 10 years as the manager and cultural arts educator at the Hannibal Square Heritage Center, in Winter Park, Florida where she educates visitors on African Americans' contributions (past and present) throughout Central Florida. Barbara has the passion for creating dynamic cultural exchanges, organizing educational events and curating art exhibitions.

On View | January 27–April 29, 2023

The Hannibal Square Story Quilters quilt group is dedicated to supporting all quilt artists in a creative community. They share techniques, equipment and supplies to make meaningful art while supporting each other in all aspects of their lives. They listen to each other’s stories and work together to preserve their cultural heritage. They learn from each other, have fun and enjoy life.

The exhibition, collectively curated by the group, gives each quilter an opportunity to tell her unique story. Exhibit themes include artist reflections on the Black experience, spirituality, justice, femininity, family, and nature. Artists will reflect on their works with the public in celebration of Black History Month.

Hannibal Square Heritage Center Visiting Exhibition Gallery

Pine Hills Road Pedestrian/Bicycle Safety Construction Project KNOW THIS!

Construction has begun on the Pine Hills Road Pedestrian Safety project. The project, which will stem from Colonial Drive on the south to Bonnie Brae Circle on the north end of the project, will address pedestrian and bicycle safety issues highlighted in a 2018 safety study. Some of the project highlights include:

• Reconstructing Pine Hills Rd. between Colonial Dr. and Bonnie Brae Circle with a raised median and dedicated left turn lanes.

• Widening the existing 5-foot wide sidewalk on the east side of the road, to a 12-foot wide shared-use path from Silver Star Rd. to Bonnie Brae Circle as part of the Pine Hills Trail

• Adding a 7-foot wide dedicated bike lane in each direction from Colonial Dr. to Silver Star Rd.

• Providing intersection improvements for better access to Pine Hills Rd. from cross streets.

• Adding crosswalk marking and detectable warning pads at intersections, cross streets, and driveways.

• Adding a mid-block crossing location to increase safer pedestrian access between intersections.

• Improving signage to better warn drivers of pedestrian crossing locations; including adding pedestrian signal at crossing locations.

The project will be conducted in phases, and residents should expect temporary lane and sidewalk closures. However, access to businessess and neighborhoods will remain open.

Project Oasis is a one-of-a-kind nutrition education program that teaches participants nutrition strategies, and how to cook healthy, affordable meals. The course is conducted by a registered dietitian at our nutrition resource center.

Participants Recieve Comprehensive health tips and information.

Health advice from dietitians and other health professionals.

Weekly produce and incentive items.

Diabetes prevention & management

2009 W. Central Blvd. Orlando, Florida 32805 407.872.1333

Sell

Your land stays locally owned and helps local families become homeowners!

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Course Dates

April - 19, 26

May - 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

June - 7

Registration is required to participate in Project Oasis. Please call us or visit the "Event calendar" section of our website.

Why

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paying taxes

maintenance.

purchase price goes directly to you

• We will pay for all independent title agent services.

Maynard Evans High School

Q: A:

Is there a woman who has made a significant impact in your life that led to the work you're now doing?

Yes, my mother Bernetha Demps and Carrie Mae Marquess.

A: What are some highlights in your personal life or career?

Q:

I would have to say becoming a Registered Dietitian. I wanted initially to be a home economics teacher. But when I got to Florida A&M University, I saw a Food Nutrition major and decided to go in that direction and I'm glad I did!

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What advice would you share with women expressing self-doubts in pursuing a passion or giving up on their dreams?

My recommendation to anyone trying to pursue their dreams is to pursue it not to give up. There will be some stumbling blocks that you will have to overcome but at the end of the day, you will look back and see what you have accomplished, and, will be proud.

What is one of your favorite inspirational quotes?

One of my favorite quotes is from a song that I love by The Williams Brothers which says "may the work that I have done speak for me". I try to do that everyday because I know the Lord will bless me in every endeavor I seek.

Fabiola Gaines RD, LD Co-Founder Hebni Nutrition

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A:

Q:

A:

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A:

Is there a woman who has made a significant impact in your life that led to the work you're now doing?

There have been so many women who've made an impact in my life starting with my mother and sister. Their integrity and perseverance throughout my early years gave me the strength to endure everything I encountered "growing up." In my profession, Robyn Holden of WHUR in Washington, D.C. gave me my first connection into radio.

Self-care is sometimes an issue with women, who are raising children, actively involved in community projects, and have a full-time career. Can you share some tips on work life balance?

Great question as I am about to host an event to share some of those tips that for me include: massage therapy, having a great chiropractor, a phenomenal esthetician, a fantastic makeup artist. My therapist and business coach are both on speed dial. I pray daily, read voraciously and enjoy great wines. I also walk every day and am about to start my Silver Sneakers routine. (Yep I said "silver"...LOL!)

Who would you prefer having over for Sunday brunch, and conversation

Former First Lady Michelle Obama or Oprah Winfrey, and why?

Wow, if I couldn't entertain them both at the Bistro with one of my husbands famous Sunday Brunches and include music by one of our favorite jazz artists - then I would love to sit and chat with Michelle. I believe there are a lot of gems she's never shared and I'd love to be the one to pull those out of her.

Q: A:

What is one of your favorite inspirational quotes?

This too shall pass!

Monica May President Monica May Communications

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A:

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Is there a woman who has made a significant impact in your life that led to the work you're now doing?

Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. Dr Bethune was a pioneer in education and paved the way for so many women who embark upon the work of community building through education. Because of her vision and persistence to provide an institution of higher learning for Black people my family has been able to garner a portion of the American dream.

What are some highlights in your personal life or career?

For more than 15 years, I have had the privilege of providing a safe, culturally affirming, and effective public school option for nearly one thousand families living in Orlando's Urban Corridor.

Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies you would like to share with our readers?

I am a backyard farmer. I love planting seeds and watching them grow.

Q:

A:

Q: A: What is one of your favorite inspirational quotes?

Q: A:

Who would you prefer having over for Sunday brunch, and conversation Former First Lady Michelle Obama or Oprah Winfrey, and why?

First Lady Michelle Obama. There are just some things that I want and need to know.

Doubt is unattractive! You can’t win if you don’t play. Everything worth having is hard, so accept the challenge and make demands of yourself that others won’t.

Q: A:

Is there a woman who has made a significant impact in your life that led to the work you're now doing?

There have been several women to impact my journey towards public service. Each season of my life has been influenced by earthly angels who saw something in me and decided to nurture and invest in my well-being. During my early years, it was my paternal grandmother who made me feel like I could accomplish anything with hard work. During my school-age years, it was my aunt who instilled in me that relationships matter--especially my relationship God. In college and as a young adult, it was my mother who trained me how to be disciplined and loyal. Lastly, as an attorney my career in public service has been influenced by Former State Senator Arthenia Joyner and our Clerk of Court, the Honorable Tiffany Moore Russell.

Q: A:

What advice would you share with women expressing self-doubts in pursuing a passion or giving up on their dreams?

Doubt is unattractive! You can’t win if you don’t play. Everything worth having is hard, so accept the challenge and make demands of yourself that others won’t.

Q: What is one of your favorite inspirational quotes?

Who would you prefer having over for Sunday brunch, and conversation Former First Lady Michelle Obama or Oprah Winfrey, and why?

A:

Q: A:

Michelle Obama is my shero. She is completely authentic, brilliant, and replicates her influence with humility.

Doubt is unattractive! You can’t win if you don’t play. Everything worth having is hard, so accept the challenge and make demands of yourself that others won’t.

Roberta Walton Johnson, Esq General Counsel Orange County Clerk of Court

Dr. Jennifer Porter-Smith Executive Director Nap Ford Community School's Legends Academy

It should be apparent that with this beign February, this issue does have a Black History theme. I am always proud of this issue as it gives me an opportunity to shine a light on Black Excellence happening right in our neighborhood. One of my goals for The Midtown Press is to shine a positive light on people, places, and stories that impact our community. The Black History Month Spotlight section, which begins on Page 7, is just a sampling of people I have come to know and admire for charting their own course in their respective fields so I hope you enjoy it.

II am not one for controversy. I simply was not built for it, as others are much more gifted with words and actions to speak. However, I do know when to speak my truth and be present and aware of happenings around me. One of the most jarring things I ever heard was during a conversation with my father about growing up when he said he was just a few years away from slavery. I remember thinking, "Dad is a bit delirious." A few months later, I stumbled upon a book entitled Slavery by Another Name: The ReEnslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II by writer Douglas A. Blackmon What the book explains is that slavery in America didn't end with the Civil War. Between 1865 and 1941, millions of African-Americans were forced to work with little or no pay, and many were held against their will. Well, my Dad was born in 1943! Thsi is not a narrative on slavery in the United States. However, I believe that after slavery, what African-Americans had to endure, segregation, Jim Crow laws, "Sundown Towns," "Red Lining," and so much more have had a direct impact on the current generation of AfricanAmericans. Most people in my age group, Generation X, are the first generation to grow up after the Civil Rights movement. Many of us grew up with ideas of equality and diversity. We watched our parents work multiple jobs to provide for their families and lived in homes that, for many of us, if we were lucky, were the first homes that the family owned. However, the lack of adequate financial planning saw many families unable to capitalize on prime opportunities.

I want to be clear that we have come a long way, but as cliche, as it may sound, there is still a far way to go to achieve the level playing field we desire. Issues plaguing many Black communities today are fair and equal access to housing, home loans, and educational opportunities. There are still too many people who have not experienced the American Dream of home ownership, which, from an economic standpoint, is the best way to create generational wealth for families. I, along with many others, have taken the leap into entrepreneurship, not just as a means to an end, but in conversations with friends who are also business owners, their goal is to build a legacy they can leave to their children. It is a personal goal of mine. I have already begun crafting strategies to have my children become homeowners before they turn 30 in an effort to set them up for future success. The majority of our parents didn't know the importance of this. However, as you know better, you are expected to do better.

So here is to more opportunities and new ideas. I would love to see a movement of creating a new Black History. One where we do not have to be reminded of past sins. Let's come together to "buy back the block" and recreate new communities of the past like Black Wall Street, the Greenwood District of Tulsa, which was unfortunately and devastatingly destroyed in 1921, not as a goal to separate but rather to empower.

- The Editor

I was only a few years away from slavery.